FO U R HUNDR ED BY DES IGN
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LOOK B OOK 0 1 | SPRI NG 2021
A M E S S AG E F RO M F H X D Welcome to the launch issue of Insider, a seasonal look book to inspire travel dreams and make discoveries, with a focus on insider content. The May issue is dedicated to the “Great Re-Awakening” with inspirations from Mexico to the Maldives.
FOUR HUNDRED BY DESIGN
Spring is in the air with a hint of the Summer to come. Where will you go next? Our iconic hotel gems and spectacular villas in Italy define splendor and await your return as if waiting to welcome family back home. There’s never been a better time to visit the bounty of natural beauty of Fiji or embrace the balance between mind and body at SHA Wellness Clinic, both perfect antidotes to 2020. Bask in the light of Southern France, stay at one of the most beautiful farm estates just outside London or discover new culinary experiences in Ireland. Or, perhaps getting lost in the big Texas sky or in the southern hospitality of Charleston is calling you. We hope this issue fills you with travel delights and inspirations. Kind regards,
Karen Goldberg Karen Goldberg SVP, Brand Strategy & Business Development Four Hundred by Design
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LOOKBOOK 01 | SPRING 2021
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LOOKBOOK 01 | SPRING 2021
CO NT E NT S Cheval Blanc Randheli | Maldives Grand Hotel Tremezzo | Lake Como, Italy Heckfield Place | Hampshire, United Kingdom Archer’s Nest at JL Bar Ranch | Sonora, Texas
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Kokomo Private Island | Fiji Le Sirenuse | Positano, Italy Palazzo Avino | Ravello, Italy Portrait Firenze | Firenze, Italy SHA Wellness Clinic | Alicante, Spain Terre Blanche | Provence, France The Glass House | St. Jean Cap Ferrat, France Casa Majani | Punta Mita, Riviera Nayarit, Mexico L’Oasis | St. Martin, FWI The Beach House | Anguilla, BWI Villa Point of View | Barbados, WI Villa Rondinaia | Ravello, Amalfi Coast, Italy Ballyfin | County Laois, Ireland The Dewberry | Charleston, SC
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C H E VA L B L A N C RANDHELI Maldives Cheval Blanc Randheli bathed by turquoise waters of the preserved Noonu Atoll is set in a lush exotic heaven, offering a rare experience of exclusive privacy. Fine crafts, bespoke furniture and individual artworks crown the tasteful interiors of each villa. The Maison boasts a collection of precious, exquisite art emblematic to the Cheval Blanc spirit. 46-villas with access to breathtaking views and landscapes – the ocean at your doorsteps and gardens at your fingertips. A wide array of tailor-made activities and unforgettable experiences are thoughtfully created for every Cheval Blanc guests to ensure a return home with the fondest memories. Become a wanderer, explorer, chef, sommelier. Cheval Blanc’s signature Alchemists are dream weavers for the desires in the explorer’s soul. Dare to try something new! Surf’s up at Cheval Blanc Randheli. Experience the thrill of catching a wave, regardless of the sea conditions. The Maison is thrilled to host a surf simulator, the only one in the Maldives. The best surfer out there is the one having the most fun. All guests, from beginners to the most experienced surfers of all ages, are invited to ride a wave. The Ambassadeurs take the utmost care in providing assistance as well as coaching. Experiences lived in the Maison are pure island bliss. Far away but never off-trend! Exclusive boutiques showcase exclusive collections from prestigious international brands. The Maison celebrates creative collaboration with Nadine Arton, Orlebar Brown and Hublot in special edition Cheval Blanc Randheli collections. Dress the Randheli way and live island chic. Be still, find sanctuary. Pause, replay, rewind. Find unequalled revival in the veins of Randheli. Cheval Blanc Spa unveils an exclusive opportunity to deepen the yoga practice without the distraction from daily life. A dedicated Yoga Retreat invites guests to redefine their inner and outer beauty, as well as to restore the balance in their life. The sessions will be designed exclusively according to their needs and their preferences by the Cheval Blanc Randheli’s resident yoga master. A one-of-a-kind journey that will guide guests to reconnect with themselves and reset their body, soul and mind, as well as give a purpose to their vacation in Cheval Blanc Randheli. The hushed haven of the Maldives awaits. Welcome to Cheval Blanc Randheli! Welcome Home!
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G R A N D H OT E L T R E M E Z ZO Lake Como, Italy 100 Years of History “If Enea Gandola would see the Grand Hotel Tremezzo today, he would be touched by how it resembles the Palace he opened on a summer day of 1910 to great public fanfare”. That’s how Silvio Vettorello, GM of this outstanding symbol of Italian hospitality, describes his feelings at the gates of a new, exciting season on the enchanting Lago di Como shores. After over 100 years of history, the exuberance of the Grand Tour and the frivolity of the Belle Époque live on at the Grand. The De Santis family, currently owner of this jewels of ars vivendi, proudly waves the flag of this authentic dolce vita dream, re-interpreting its never-ending charm year after year. One of the latest news in terms of renovations is the private sandy beach. The Grand’s lido floating on the lake waters overlooking Bellagio has been expanded and fully restyled to immerse guests in the glamor of the Italian riviera during the 1950s and 1960s. Just in front sits the spectacle of the Grigne mountains, reflected in the waters, at the point where the lake divides into two branches. A picture-perfect backdrop, a postcard to take home and cherish forever.
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Innovation Meets Tradition Everywhere at the Grand, innovation meets tradition. Fabulous period décor is characterized by vibrant colors, the finest materials and statement furniture oozing the glamor of yesteryear are paired with the most contemporary luxuries. All, in the name of Italianness. As for the award-winning T Spa, treatments and products are signed by Santa Maria Novella, a historic brand founded in Florence in 1612, with centuries of expertise in herbal medicine perfumery, and craftmanship handed down from generation to generation. Soon to launch is the treasure chest, Sense of Lake, the brand-new online boutique where selections of delights abound, gifting memories and dreams, more than just souvenirs from the lake. This new online boutique allows guests to discover treasures as they begin their trip to the Grand and can then follow them home. These goodies become the reflection of their emotions, to never stop reliving the dream of their time in Italy. But why should they? We are on Lake Como, after all. 9
H E C KF I E L D P L AC E Hampshire, United Kingdom Green shoots Heckfield Place reawakens this Spring as the first UK hotel to have its own farm estate that is certified 100% biodynamic. A three-year labor of love, this form of agriculture adopts a “closed loop” and holistic approach, eschewing the use of chemicals, to regenerate soil health. Biodynamic growing and farming is essentially an organic approach to growing food, but takes it a little further, closely following the calendar of the moon and the sun. It produces vibrant and nutrient-rich foods grown in the five-acre Market Garden and Home Farm, which fuel Culinary Director Skye Gyngell’s seasonal cooking at its very best. Celebrating this biodynamic bounty, the open-fired Hearth and Marle restaurants reopened on May 17, as well as our Dolby Atmos Screening Room with its movie and talks programme through the Assembly. Later in the year, we’re over the moon to launch the state-of-the-art, much anticipated Bothy Spa, including our indoor pool, relaxation areas both inside and out, firepits on the terrace with sweeping views of the Home Farm, further treatment rooms offering the radical botany of Wildsmith Skin body and facial treatments, Pilates, gym, and café. In the meantime, our 438 acres offer plenty of room to roam. We’re a ‘living place – a place to re-earth during a forest bathe, long meander or idle bike ride among our ancient trees. A place to channel your inner farmer and pick up milk churns and hay bales on our farm fit. A place to reconnect with nature during a wild swim in the Lower Lake. Head to the different spots around the estate to play badminton, croquet and petanque. Nothing will say Spring more than a Heckfield picnic feast on the grass, fishing in the local River Whitewater and lapping up the sun in our glorious space. Here’s to brighter days, indeed…
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C H E R’ S N E ST AT JL BAR RANCH Sonora, Texas
Spring Reawakening If home is where the heart is, why not escape to a home away from home that was designed and decorated with the creative touch of our owners. If you close your eyes and imagine a combination of Pure Texas style infused with local hospitality offering comfort, safety, and service with a smile. Breathe in the fresh air and get lost in the big Texas skies. Sunsets in West Texas Hill Country ignite magic into the sky that naturally transitions into a sparkling starlit night sky. The ultimate setting for any experience. The Archer’s Nest, at the JL Bar Ranch Resort & Spa, was originally a private residence of the resort owners, the Archer family. This home was recently made available to the property inventory. Over the past year, demand for elite experiences for our valued guests was evident. The home is carefully detailed with custom crafted furniture pieces and luxury finishes allowing for unique memories to be created and collected at this exclusive destination. In addition to the main residence, the pool house and outdoor space provides infinite opportunities to create unique experiences aligned with the vision of your dream trip. Whether you are enjoying the open roads between cities, chartering or piloting a private plane at our on-site private FBO airport, when you reserve The Archer’s Nest, you also receive access to the services, amenities and facilities of the resort. Six bedrooms allow room for up to 12 guests to stay comfortably. Plenty of indoor and outdoor kitchen and bar spaces, a home theater, and lavish gardens. Are you and your family looking for a unique experience to make memories that will last a lifetime? The Archer’s Nest is the ultimate escape with access close enough for comfort, far enough for independence, welcoming inspiration and space to reset and refresh. Available for a 2 night minimum and options for extended length of stay offers, this may be the best kept secret destination you have been looking for!
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KO KO M O P R I VAT Fiji
Rediscover the magic of the pacific islands. After a twelve month hiatus, Fiji’s most exclusive private island has re-opened for guests able to travel by private jet. The passion project of Australian billionaire, Lang Walker AO, Kokomo Private Island has released an exclusive buyout package for guests interested in travelling prior to international borders reopening. Experience the resort like never before. You and up to 12 guests, can isolate alongside picturesque white sand beaches, azure waters, and lush tropical gardens. Kokomo’s ‘Private Island Escape’ comes inclusive of all meals, selected alcoholic beverages, daily spa treatments, an introductory scuba dive and unlimited watersports - the perfect Spring break for families who need time to reconnect, a space to call their own, and the freedom to explore. Cradled by the world’s fourth largest reef, the Great Astrolabe Reef, Kokomo’s 140-acres offer a world of choice and endless adventure. Explore one of the best dive and snorkeling locations on the planet.
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Come face to face with manta rays, reef sharks, and turtles. Try your hand at deep-sea fishing, kayak around the island at sunrise or spend a morning with Kokomo’s marine biologists. For those in search of a restorative escape, relax in the Yaukuve Spa Sanctuary, a haven of tranquility and a destination of deep relaxation. At the heart of the spa, Kokomo’s outdoor relaxation bure serves as a place to start your journey, or to transition and relax between treatments. Connect with the natural beauty of the island, as you enjoy a refreshing hibiscus tea. General Manager, Sean Flakelar and his team, have spent the last year elevating the Kokomo experience for guests. Flakelar, a 27-year AMAN veteran, has built on the resort’s existing farm to table and dock to dish approach, championing island grown and locally sourced produce across the resort’s three restaurants. Expect locally-caught fish; tuna and mahi mahi, to be showcased alongside seasonal fruits, vegetables and herbs harvested from the resort’s 5.5-acre farm. There has never been a better time to visit Fiji. Kokomo is safe, secluded and swathed in a bounty of natural beauty, the perfect antidote to 2020.
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LE SIRENUSE Positano, Italy The Great Reawakening Sometimes, if you want to sprint forward, you need to take a few steps back. Iconic Italian resort Le Sirenuse opened as a small family hotel in 1951, and to mark its 70th birthday, the hotel has launched a brand-new website and an anniversary logo devised by British artist Lucy Stein, which puts a fresh, playful spin on Le Sirenuse’s classic mermaid logo. Now fully integrated with the Positano hotel’s pioneering online magazine, Sirenuse Journal, the new website is all about stories – like that of Aldo, Anna, Paolo and Franco, the four siblings who made the momentous decision to convert their family’s holiday villa into an intimate, charming, elegant resort. Stein’s flirtatious mermaid makeover sets the tone for Le Sirenuse’s other major 2021 novelty – its aperitif and nightlife relaunch. Building on its seven decades of tradition and the Amalfi Coast town’s dolce vita vibe, Le Sirenuse will stride into the new season with three subtly repositioned bars, each with its own distinct character. 16
A cozy nook inside the hotel for fans of classic cocktails, the Don’t Worry Bar, named after a nearby neon installation by artist Martin Creed, takes the stage with its opulent antique décor sensitively updated by Roman designer Annalisa Bellettati. Aldo’s Cocktail Bar & Seafood Grill, its romantic al fresco cousin, distils the sophisticated, easy glamour of Le Sirenuse’s new dolce vita lifestyle, but also embeds a lesson learnt from Uncle Aldo – that dinner just sometimes happens before you know it when you sit down for a drink with friends, between a fresh seafood tartare, a salad of basil, tomatoes and succulent mozzarella, a grilled lobster, a light, tempting tiramisù. However, it’s Le Sirenuse’s chic streetside Franco’s Bar, named after the youngest and most designoriented of the hotel’s four founding siblings, that is taking the biggest leap in 2021. Twice winner of the Diageo World Class Country award as best Italian bartender, mixology consultant Mattia Pastori came on board in March to create a brand-new cocktail menu in collaboration with Franco’s head barman Antonio Viscido. Though it has yet to be unveiled, Four Hundred by Design can reveal one of the creations that await those who wait patiently in line for a coveted table at this ‘no reservations’ al fresco bar this summer season: Franco’s Fizz, a refreshing, tangy blend of Italicus bergamot liqueur, lemonade, Amalfi lemon juice and artisanal almond milk, with a dusting of salt and powdered pistachio.
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PA L A Z ZO AV I N O Ravello, Italy
F ro m Pa l a z zo Av i n o t o T h e P i n k C l o s e t : A S h a d e s o f P i n k S t o r y Throughout the years, I started to see and vision Palazzo Avino as an open book, my open book where I could write “my magic”. Guests at the Hotel were my readers. The journey was an inspiring path where the new identity was shaped, both familiar and international, changing the name from Palazzo Sasso to Palazzo Avino in 2013, redesigning the atmosphere and furnishings of rooms and environments together with my mother. Drawing from my personal passion for art and design, I created a story full of nuances. Eclectic with a soft and pink touch and a lion as a logo. The Hotel started to be a wunderkammer where all I loved was kept and preserved. All I love, in the million different shades, from cooking to wine, from art to fashion, and they all come together in my heart and within the walls of the Palace in that kaleidoscope that Palazzo Avino is, between exhibitions and initiatives that interpret the soul and spirit of the place, food and wine wonders at the Chef’s Table and at the Sommelier Table. When this Pink world had to close its doors physically, we kept the creativity doors open. We did launch seven new restyled rooms featuring pieces from master architects from the Italian ‘50s. They are our Capsule Collection within the property and they have three different themes: Sand, Coral and Aquamarine ( my favorite). Furthermore, I always deeply loved fashion. While travelling promoting the Hotel around the world, I always found time to spend a couple of days enriching my knowledge on the local designers. Year after year, my closet became a collection of special pieces, souvenirs of my travels, unique pieces reminding me of special places. So when a former art gallery went into sale opposite the Hotel, The Pink Closet came to life. The Pink Closet is a spontaneous and personal curation of emotional pieces, as collected during the course of a vacation following a very personal point of view. Eclecticism is the key: in defining the space as in selecting the offer. Each piece is carefully chosen, to inspire and be admired, in an intimate and feminine dimension. The research and selection process is long, accurate and borderless. It extends from New York to London, from Crete to New Delhi, from Como, where ad hoc silks are made, to small Neapolitan tailor shops where pink pajamas are made with the same silks. During this very difficult year, The Pink Closet has become a laboratory of what is beautiful and unique, a territory where one can discover the unexpected, the unusual, the unobtainable. We are launching the LAB, where young designers can create capsule collections and pieces for The Pink Closet. It is a project that brings to life my passion in discovering talents and gives back also to a community, the Fashion Industry, strongly hit from the pandemic. 18
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P O RT R A I T FIRENZE Firenze, Italy Portrait Firenze, the exclusive “residence” pays homage to the city of Florence and paints a fresh portrait of it during a very special time – the fabulous Fifties – a time that saw the birth of Italian high fashion precisely in this area of the city. Throughout the hotel an exclusive black & white photographic reportage bringing this period back to life, depicting the glamour and lifestyle of that era. The building, once known as the Grand Hotel Royal de l’Arno dates to the 1200’s and converted into a luxury hotel in the early 1800’s. “Portrait is a means, a philosophy, a new style of hospitality. In this incredibly exclusive location, swathed in comfort and elegance, the real bonus is the extraordinary team who magically manages to use this exclusiveness to make all the elements that it consists of vibrantly potent, offering far much more than the usual tailor-made services offered by a deluxe hotel,” says Valeriano Antonioli, the Lungarno Collection CEO. On the ground floor we find the Caffè dell’Oro and its newly renovated external decor with seven lounges residing along the restored and pedestrian Lungarno degli Acciaiuoli, a chic atmosphere from where to enjoy a front row seat of the Ponte Vecchio. Partners & Experiences The name itself – Portrait – expresses the concept of tailor-made hospitality, as if it somehow reflects a portrait of each guest. Our Lifestyle team has consolidated exclusive experiences and partnerships, so guests leave with authentic and unique moments. Pirelli Cycl-e Around To discover the beauty of the landscapes surrounding Florence, choose the exclusive sustainable mobility service designed by our partner Pirelli: Cycl-e Around TM. At the Portrait Firenze, new premium e-bikes with pedal assistance are waiting for you to move freely and live unique experiences. With Cycl-e Around TM you can rent a latest-generation e-bike with Pirelli tires directly at the hotel to discover the area in total freedom or with a guide, discovering exclusive unique itineraries. Historical Craftsmanship Private visits and demonstrations of gilding and leather engraving, as well as marbled paper, and a bronze castor workshop dating back to 1925. A visit to the oldest historical silk mill Antico Setificio Fiorentino weaving since 1786 and including an original loom by Leonardo DaVinci. 20
VIK – Very Important Kids Our collaboration with VIK – (Very Important Kids that travel with wonder) organizes exclusive tours and activities for families and little travellers coming to Italy, creating fun experiences based on the concept of edutainment. 21
SHA WELLNESS C Alicante, Spain A Global Pioneer in Integrative Medicine A stay at SHA is an awakening experience focused on self-knowledge and awakening of the guest’s physical and emotional abilities to recharge from head to toe – from holistic and medical consultations, daily healthy nutrition, with essential nutrients and ingredients that help awaken the mind, to daily group activities on the Healthy Living Academy. During the stay at SHA, our guests learn about some of the daily habits that they can apply to the most basic aspects of life, like eating, sleeping, disconnecting from stress, and awakening one’s consciousness to embrace the balance between mind and body for long-term wellbeing benefits. Located in Alicante, Spain, SHA Wellness Clinic is a global pioneer of integrated medical and holistic wellness, and one of Europe’s leading medical properties? Since opening in 2008, the property’s team has successfully merged ancient philosophies with the latest advances in Western medicine to generate scientifically proven results and become a world-leading authority on preventative health. The SHA 360º Method is the brainchild of Alfredo Bataller Parietti, whose vision was to open a property that could treat major illnesses with a fusion of ancient Eastern philosophy and cuttingedge Western techniques, alongside a healthy nutrition aligned with the World Health Organization, Harvard Medical School and the Nutritional Science Unit of Cornell University. SHA develops a personalised health plan for each guest, which includes natural therapies and scientific medicine, along with a customised meal plan. SHA Wellness Clinic also offers guests 5 health programs, targeting some of the world’s most prevalent lifestyle illnesses, from detoxification and sleep recovery to stress management and weight loss. The health programs include: • DETOX – a complete body cleansing • OPTIMAL WEIGHT – a healthy and constant weight reduction • INTENSIVE – the perfect combination for wellness • REBALANCE – an approach to a healthier world • HEALTHY AGEING - for a longer and fuller life In addition to medical benefits, guests of SHA Wellness Clinic are also treated to premium hospitality and a beautiful resort-like setting to relax and rejuvenate. The 93 suites and 11 SHA Residences are strikingly minimalist and sleek, with first-class facilities. In 2020 the property underwent a refurbishment process during which it incorporated 10 new medical consultation rooms, 2 new studios to carry out Mind&Body disciplines and the White Room, a new space with the highest standards in terms of safety and asepsis, placing SHA at the highest level of performing surgical treatments in optimal, hospital-like conditions. SHA Wellness Clinic now includes a full comprehensive SHA Insurance with all bookings, as an added exclusive benefit at no additional cost, to assist guests in having maximum safety and peace of mind.
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CLINIC NEWS FROM SHA Launched in 2020, the SHA’ Immune System Focused Pack offers an assessment of the immune system, an evaluation of infection by certain pathogens that can alter the immune system. In addition, the clinic offers state-of-the-art medical treatments and natural therapies to strengthen immunity. The aim of this new package that can be included while booking a Rebalance Heath Program is to strengthen the building blocks of innate immunity, which plays a key role in dealing with pathogens quickly and effectively. SHA Wellness Clinic also recently introduced the Gut Health Unit, led by Dr. Ámina Alani. The main objective of this Unit is to treat digestive disorders involving an imbalance of the microbiota, but also of the various psychological and organic problems that generate these dysfunctions. Balance and long-term wellbeing await.
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TERRE BLANCHE Provence, France Whilst Provence’ Sleeping Beauty is taking a rest until a gentle awakening expected mid-June, the Golden Keys concierge, Grégory Vacca and his team have been exploring Terre Blanche’s surroundings in quest of new authentic and exclusive experiences to offer to the guests this season. Two of them particularly stand out, revealing the unique know-how of the local community.
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For food lovers, a bespoke guided gourmet excursion on electric bikes will give the chance to discover the stunning countryside, stopping off at the Provencal market in the hilltop village of Fayence and meet with local producers that Executive Chef Christophe Schmitt shops for the Terre Blanche restaurants. Daniel Marin is for instance a passionate cheesemaker and Mylène Christine at Château des Selves a famous olive oil producer who always invites you to play « pétanque », the traditional game of boules from Provence. Then, Terre Blanche’s guests will be the only travellers to live an immersive experience at « Le Clos de Callian », one of the most confidential fragrant flowers producers in the « Pays de Grasse » region, and the exclusive supplier to Dior Perfume. Its owner, Armelle, warmly welcomes you before sharing her know-how, teaching you the delicate technique of how to pick the flowers, with the picturesque, perched village of Callian as back drop. How amazing it is to learn the same traditional gestures that have been practiced for decades to collect the famous Centifolia rose (also called May rose for the month it comes into bloom); this knowledge related to perfume has been inscribed in UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity since 2018. And to finish, the ultimate experience is when you eventually create your own « Eau de Parfum » amid the fields alongside a perfume maker. Terre Blanche, your oasis in Provence. Come as a guest, leave as a story-teller.
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THE GLASS HOUSE St. Jean Cap Ferrat, France If ever a structure speaks to renewal and rebirth it is The Glass House. Built in 2008, this villa with a modern architecture has been given a good as new facelift for 2021. One has only to stroll through the newly landscaped Mediterranean gardens to get an eternal Spring feeling. This villa stands supreme at the highest point of St. Jean Cap Ferrat. Even the dining room, which seats up to 16 guests offers a commanding 180° sea view. The newly designed Kitchen by Boffi is connected to a professional kitchen with an elevator. There are 7 bedrooms, 7 bathrooms with en-suite bath/shower rooms: Master bedroom with walk-in dressing room, two bathrooms, terrace with panoramic sea views. There is an elevator giving access to all floors including to the newly organized guest office, and the fitness center has been improved to include the very latest Kinesis and Techno gym equipment and a large flat screen TV. Additionally, there is a new Spa with Hammam (steam room), a sauna, a shower, an indoor heated exercise pool with Jetstream (4 x 3m), massage room with dressing, sound system, and a large shower area. There is a Wine cellar featuring more than 800 bottles of the finest wines (with an inventory), the wine cellar offers vintage wines and champagne which can be purchased from the wine cellar list or on request other wine can be stocked in the wine cellar. The bedrooms have been re-done to include new air conditioning, television with DVD, Apple TV, Satellite TV (International Channels) and Kartina TV (Russian Channels), Electronic safe boxes, L’Occitane Amenities, Yves Delorme towels, slippers & bathrobes, hair dryers.
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CASA MAJANI Punta Mita, Riviera Nayarit, Mexico A six-bedroom beach front luxury villa located inside the exclusive Punta Mita development on the Riviera Nayarit on The Pacific coast of Mexico. This luxurious property is the result of the combination of experience and inspiration from the world-renowned architects Manolo Mestre and Juan Collignon resulting in a network of pathways through expansive reflection pools connecting each unique structure, creating the illusion that Casa Majani is suspended over the powerful Pacific. For 2021 there have been changes to make the villa renewed and make the guests of this villa feel reborn themselves. From a health and sanitation point of view, there are new approved protocols in place to help ensure a totally sanitary and Covid free environment. The rebirth starts with the industrial cleaning of the villa after each departure and prior to the arrival of each guest. Additionally, the management has arranged for complementary antigen tests required for flights home which a Registered Nurse will come to the villa to administer. To help with the renewal, linens, sheets, towels and pillowcases have been replaced and are meticulously laundered on a daily basis if requested or every other day without mention. Personal laundry is also done by the villa housekeeping staff. At the center of Casa Majani stands the Grand Palapa. Nestled beneath a palm-thatched roof, sits a grounded yet ethereal living and dining terrace. Steadfast ocean breezes and sun-bathed terraces bless this marriage of nature and nurture. Striking ocean vistas surround all points in Casa Majani’s central gathering area. A sustainable tropical wood dining table, created by local craftsmen for 12, provides an unmatched vantage point for the surf and sunsets. To usher in the Spring, and a renewal feeling for 2021 the Palapa has been totally painstakingly redone,,,frond by frond. 29
L’ OA S I S St. Martin, FWI At the far end of Baie Rouge, one of St. Martin’s most sought after beaches, Villa L’Oasis sits alongside the cliffs offering incredible sea views and luxurious surroundings. Built on three levels, following the incline of the cliff, this elegant and sophisticated beachfront home has six bedrooms, including 3 master suites and two beautiful pools, one at beach level and a second overflow pool on the main residential level. With its clean architectural lines and pristine white walls, reminiscent of the Mediterranean or the Aegean, villa L’Oasis offers Seafront living at its best, with the sun and surf of a world-class beach, endless water vistas, and elegant and comfortable interiors. After a respite during most of 2020 the villa has been completely renovated and has just come back on the rental market. Everything has been renewed including the linens and the furniture. The villa comes fully staffed with a Chef, Butler and Housekeeping. Lush tropical vegetation greets you as “Eternal Spring” at the main entrance inviting you into a domed reception area and through large double doors to the grand living area. Large glass doors and luminous white interiors frame the stunning ocean view. The high ceilings and natural stone floors create a cool and refreshing contrast to the tropical climate. Stepping through the glass doors that line the entire front of the living room, a large covered terrace offers a further dining area for 12 and a beautiful ocean backdrop. Large blinds are provided for extra shade or in case of inclement weather. Adjacent to both of the dining areas via an archway from the living room is a spacious and well-equipped gourmet kitchen. Large windows offer a beautiful view of the ocean from this light-filled space with bright white cabinets and quartz countertops and professional-grade appliances. All of this has been reborn in 2021! Descending from the pool terrace, stone steps lead down to the white sandy beach with the second beach-level pool, shaded gazebo, seating area, in-built daybeds within the pool with ultracomfortable loungers and parasols furnishing the shoreline. Further amenities that are new in 2021 include a luxurious spa with steam room, massage and manicure tables, a fitness room equipped with a treadmill, elliptical and free weights, and an outdoor hot-tub. Private, secluded and ultra-luxurious, villa L’Oasis, as its name suggests is a haven for rest and relaxation in a beautiful and serene setting. 30
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T H E B E AC H HOUSE Anguilla, BWI Inspired by the natural beauty of Anguilla, with its spectacular sunsets and ocean views, The Beach House ensures that the difference between the outdoors and indoors are seamless. Decorated with sleek, modern sophistication, The Beach House incorporates large expanses of glass, clean and unexpectedly varied geometric lines and shapes, stainless steel trims and highlights, with warm touches of wood and complemented by natural oversized stone tiles. Although the villa is still fairly young, much has been added in 2020/2021 during the period of repose. The villa is outfitted with brand new chic and modern entertainment features including a large home theatre and a fitness room. These join existing features which include a tennis court, a stunning 44-foot infinity edge pool, and an outdoor Jacuzzi. Large floor-to-ceiling window and door glass panels unsparingly envelop the view and can slide away entirely to invite the cool sea breezes into the home. The design balances function and flow with aesthetics and incorporates design efficiency whilst maintaining the feel of generous and carefree lavishness. Only the finest materials were sourced from various continents and islands around the world to execute the construction and finish of the Beach House. The Beach House has added a whole new special events area on the beach with its own kitchen, which will service weddings, special birthdays, celebrations, corporate retreats etc. New for the Spring is the addition of many new pieces of furniture to make the villa look reborn as well as renewed. The house keeping staff has been schooled on new and fastidious protocols that will make guests feel comfortable and germ free. The Anguilla government has approved an official COVID 19 Exit Strategy, comprising a series of revised entry protocols which have been designed to safely transition the island from an extended period of contraction towards a total revitalization of the island and economy.
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V I L L A PO I N T O Barbados, WI Two acres of private property in Barbados welcome you into your own magical oasis when you book a stay at Villa Point of View. Panoramic views of the gorgeous waters of the Caribbean wake you each morning, as you step out of your bedroom suite into the open floor plan of the huge living space. In true island style, this home blends indoor and outdoor living spaces with ease. You can fill up your coffee and then wander out to the manicured gardens, where the lily pond creates a gorgeous scene for your morning. The comfortable outdoor furniture is every bit as luxurious as the cozy seating indoors, so you’ll want to spend the day soaking up the sun. But if you want some peace indoors, your spacious media room offers plenty of ways for you to relax.
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OF VIEW Located very close to The Sandy Lane Hotel, Point of View is an absolute hidden treasure. Set on an elevated site on West Ridge Road on over 2 acres of the most beautiful tropical gardens, Point of View is a masterpiece of interior design and tropical landscaping. This super luxury 5 bedroom villa has a gorgeous pool and breathtaking views of the West coast of Barbados. It is also the perfect place to see the sun setting behind the Caribbean Sea. Point of View is not only one of the most beautiful villas in Barbados, it also has the wonderful advantage of being part of the Sandy Lane Estate and therefore guests have privileged access to the stunning beach at The Sandy Lane Hotel. The beach is a perfect crescent shaped stretch of white sands and crystal clear turquoise waters that are perfect for swimming and snorkelling. There is a lovely pontoon in front of The Sandy Lane Hotel which is a lovely spot to swim to and enjoy some time of quiet contemplation. Guests at Point of View have their own Cabana and beach beds. The team at Point of View will make all the arrangements for you on any days you wish to spend on the beach.
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VILLA RO N D I N A I A Ravello, Amalfi Coast, Italy Villa Rondinaia is an extraordinary 6-bedroom, 6 bath villa set in a private park overlooking the Amalfi Coast with an unimpeded Mediterranean view. Known for its one-of-a-kind location and the one-in-a-million panorama that surrounds its grounds, Villa Rondinaia is one of the most original and spectacular villas in Europe. It’s no wonder that the property counts an uninterrupted series of illustrious celebrities and dignitaries as its guests. Located in Ravello, the villa is immersed in a park of incalculable beauty, that says Eternal Spring!! Embedded in the cliffs that hang over the landscape, lending its name to the estate, like the ‘nest of swallows’ it resembles. Once the private paradise of the American author and screenwriter Gore Vidal, the rooms of the Villa, now elegantly restored and furnished, have welcomed the world’s elite, including Princess Margaret of England, Hillary Clinton, Andy Warhol, Mick and Bianca Jagger, Giovanni and Marella Agnelli, & Tennessee Williams just to name a few. Today, totally renovated, but staying true to every authentic detail, Villa Rondinaia is a private family-run estate located in the heart of the Amalfi Coast. The internal and external set up of the estate provide the quintessential scenario for an amazing stay, characterized by the highest levels of quality, elegance, and luxury. The interiors underwent an extensive, careful restoration, respecting the historicalartistic constraints of the original property and the traditional architectural elements typical of the coast. Almost all of its decor and furnishings, all of the highest quality, were made by Italian artisans, integrated with antiques, such as the gold plated door knobs and goldsmith cabinet doors, Murano glass lamps, statues and busts of valuable artistic value, and contemporary Italian masterpieces part of the owners private art collection. A walk through the gardens with a view of the Mediterranean and the Amalfi Coast will make anyone feel that they are in Springtime heaven.
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B A L LY F I N County Laois, Ireland New Culinary Experience -Forage to Fork: When Ireland entered a lockdown in 2020, Ballyfin Demesne was forced to close its doors. After enduring several re-openings and closures due to local restrictions, the hotel ultimately decided to temporarily close, hoping for a June 2021 reopening. Hotel staff have found new ways to keep active and foster their passions while they wait for travel to resume. The property’s Executive Chef, Sam Moody, turned to his love for foraging, and plans to share his experience with guests when Ballyfin reopens. Sam’s hand-foraged foods will be incorporated into the fine menus at Ballyfin, along with ingredients sourced from the estate’s extensive ancient kitchen gardens. The new program will create an educational experience for guests, led by engaging Irish storytelling. Irish inhabitants foraged edible plants across centuries in pursuit of mushrooms, herbs, sea grass, and berries. The tradition was largely lost during the great famine, but now, thanks to Nordic cuisine and restaurants like Noma with menus founded on foraged ingredients, the practice is being rediscovered in Ireland. Sam Moody’s foraging program will immerse guests in Irish cuisine and history as they hunt for foraged ingredients, infuse dishes with deeper flavors, and inspire chefs and home cooks to seek out their own foraged ingredients to revive this ancient sustainable tradition. Ballyfin is a five-star luxury country house hotel set on 614 acres at the foot of Ireland’s Slieve Bloom Mountains. Long admired as one of the most lavish Regency mansions in the country, the historic estate reopened in May 2011 following an extensive eight-year restoration. The property features 21 individually designed rooms, lavish interiors decorated with Irish art and antiques, and rolling private grounds including a 28-acre lake, ancient woods, follies and grottoes. Guests enjoy gourmet dining, an indoor pool and spa, and quintessential country activities such as fishing, horseback riding, clay pigeon shooting, archery, falconry and more. Perfect for couples, families and friends, Ballyfin provides an enchanting retreat from the modern age, immersing guests in old world luxury, romance, privacy and tranquility. 38
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THE D E W B E R RY Charleston, SC A luxury escape in the heart of downtown Charleston, The Dewberry borders historic Marion Square and is just steps from the shopping and dining on King Street with world-class service and unparalleled views. The Dewberry is Charleston’s most coveted destination for experiencing their trademark Southern Reimagined; a mix of southern hospitality with old-world charm in an unparalleled, contemporary setting. Featuring 154 meticulously designed guest rooms and suites, the sleek Living Room Bar—plus an award-winning Spa (a collaboration with Lydia Mondavi), an exclusive partnership with Volvo for house car services, multiple event and banquet spaces and an 8th-floor rooftop oasis, Citrus Club, with awe-inspiring views of the city’s steepled skyline—the hotel is Charleston’s crown jewel and a mid-century modern gem. Formerly known as the L. Mendel Rivers Federal Building (circa 1964), founder John Dewberry and his StudioDewberry–helmed team of architects, designers and product developers spent eight painstaking years restoring the building to glory. The result is stunning juxtaposition of past and present, which earned the hotel top spots in Travel + Leisure and Conde Nast Traveler, as well as the top honor at Hospitality Design magazine’s HD Awards.
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