ALTAGRACIA A New Luxury Destination in Costa Rica CARTAGENA Colorful, Romantic and Vibrant IMPROVE YOUR HOTEL’S DATING LIFE 5 Tips From an Expert CHARREADAS Through the Eyes of an Artist THE ART OF WEAVING in Latin America SILVIA TCHERASSI Style, Elegance & Design WILLIAM D. TALBERT III A Candid interview with the CEO of the Greater Miami CVB 1
DESIGN DESTINATIONS Fall 2014
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Editor-in-Chief Franz E. Buchhalter Managing Editor Cynthia P. Howland
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Letter ! from our editor A few years ago while staying at the famous Hotel Adlon in Berlin, I met Ms. Sophia Loren. We were in the elevator as she and I were making our way to the lobby. Her beauty, her presence and her charisma were overwhelming. Unfortunately the words I wanted to say, “I love your movies” or “You are so beautiful” did not come out of my mouth. I simply froze and during the trip down the elevator not a word was exchanged until the end of the elevator trip, when she turned and looked at me and said in her unmistakably sexy voice, “Ciao!”. In this issue we feature a profile of Ms. Loren and we hope you enjoy reading it.
AltaGracia,
Guest Writers Jennifer Haz Jeremy Mason McGraw
Costa Rica
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Writers Edmundo Ruano Cynthia P. Howland Franz Buchhalter
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Our Cover:
Graphic Designer Werner Buchhalter Jr.
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In our interview series with influential people, we are honored to feature a candid conversation with my friend William D. Talbert III, CEO and President of the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau, as written by Cynthia P. Howland.
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I hope that you will enjoy our selection of articles for this edition and we look forward to your comments and suggestions.
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Until our next issue “go and experience the world!”
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As we enter the magnificent fall season, we include an article about the stunning changing of the colors in New England and an article on the Charreadas or Mexican Rodeo in northern Mexico as seen through the eyes of artist, Angelique Kyba.
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We welcome our new destination, AltaGracia in Perez Zeledon, the southern part of Costa Rica. This new luxury destination is perched amidst the country’s highest mountains and
Franz
What our readers are saying
SUMMER 2014
THE PERFECT WEDDING In The Perfect Setting LA ANTIGUA, GUATEMALA Steeped in History and Tradition BUENOS AIRES A City That Never Sleeps A TASTE OF MONTEREY
DORADO BEACH A Golfer’s Paradise
TRAVELING WITH TEENS and Finding Time for Fun
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MARK GIMENEZ A Candid Conversation with the bestselling author
“What a great endeavor ... amazing where you speak from today...a voice in an exciting publication”. - Tom Hayden, Sr Vice PresidentGlobal Luxury Sales, American Marketing Group Inc.!
DESIGN DESTINATIONS Fall 2014
WHAT’S INSIDE The Art of Weaving in Latin America Page11
Cartagena - Colorful, Romantic and Vibrant Page 19
Karen Kefauver
William D. Talbert III Page 16
AltaGracia - A New Luxury Destination Page 12
Improve Your Hotel’s
Dating Life Page 9
Changing of the Colors: The Magic of Autumn Page 4
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Charreadas: Through the Eyes of an Artist
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Extreme Travel
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PAN AM And Me
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Wynwood Walls, Museum of the Streets
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Miguel Aguilar: Changing Miami’s Flavor
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Silvia Tcherassi: Style, Elegance & Design
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Curaçao - Undiscovered
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Sophia Loren Page 23
DESIGN DESTINATIONS Fall 2014
"In the entire circle of the year there are no days so delightful as those of a fine October, when the trees are bare to the mild heavens, and the red leaves bestrew the road, and you can feel the breath of winter, morning and evening -no days so calm, so tenderly solemn, and with such a reverent meekness in the air."
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Alexander Smith
Photo Michael D. Culmer
Changing of the Colors The Magic of Autumn ! ! By Cynthia P. Howland
Anyone who has experienced fall in New England knows the heartbreaking, heart-stopping, adrenaline pumping feeling of autumn. Those brazen summer plunges into the cool lakes and streams which left us breathless as we later stretched out in the sun on the nearest rock or raft have come to a hard stop, leaving only memories.
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But as quickly as we miss the summer season, autumn rushes in with all her majesty, invading every one of our senses so powerfully that it leaves little room for feeling forlorn. Mother Nature, an artist of unparalleled talent sneaks in on us, turning the verdant New England landscape and mountainsides into a vibrant carpet of orange, red and yellow. The sugar maples, red maples and oaks don their brightest colors for a relatively short and stunning appearance before their leaves dry and flutter down to the forest floor, soon to be buried by snow.
The flashy show of the changing foliage in its vivid palette of red, yellow and orange hues as it is perfectly mirrored along the still waters of the lakes edge, or as it waves across the mountains and hillsides is as proud a display of the beauty and power of nature one will ever experience. The urgency of knowing these vistas will be fleeting, the crispness that has appeared in the air seemingly overnight, and those last few sunny days before the transition to winter- all bring about an anticipation, a promise and an excitement that awakens the spirit and challenges the soul. The majesty of the season never fails to bring self-reflection and thoughts of things yet left undone. The cool airs powers a surge of resolution, and commitments of redefinition, of productivity and change.
DESIGN DESTINATIONS Fall 2014
Each year, leagues of leaf-watchers track the progress of the changing of the colors across New England in hopes of finding the elusive “peak foliage” in their favorite region. The timing and brilliance of the foliage varies significantly by region, and is impacted each year by rainfall and temperature. As the trees grow throughout the spring and summer months, chlorophyll, which gives the leaves their green color is constantly replaced in the leaves. As the nights get longer in the early fall, the cells do not expand and begin to block the chlorophyll from the leaves. The lack of chlorophyll allows the yellow (xanthophylls) and orange (carotenoids) pigments to be visible. The red and purple pigments (anthocyanins) are manufactured from the sugars that are trapped in the leaf. The introduction of these pigments into the leaves are responsible for the color changes of fall. Temperature, sunlight and soil moisture all determine how the leaves will look in the fall. Lots of bright sunlight and low temperatures bring on an early foliage. Cooler air, combined with a lot of daytime sunshine promotes the formation of more red and purple pigments. An early frost will end the colorful foliage. A very dry growing season can cause the leaves to drop before they change color. Heavy wind or rain can cause the leaves to fall before they fully develop color.
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The best weather for brilliant fall foliage is a moist growing season followed by a dry, cool and sunny autumn with warm days and cool but frostless nights.
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A dramatic way to experience the colors of fall is a foliage drive through the countryside of your favorite region. There are a number of organized escorted tours, or you may choose to create your own driving tour. In New Hampshire, wander through the White Mountains for sweeping mountain vistas, and endless views of babbling brooks and streams, covered bridges and more. Take a manageable hike on one of the state’s many trails. Experience a ride on the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway for an unforgettable 15 minute ride toward the summit, where on a clear day, you can see into Vermont, New York, Maine and even Canada. Stop along your travels for antiquing, a visit to a country store, or a stay at a country Bed and Breakfast.
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Vermont offers a wonderful 18- mile trip from Stowe, through picturesque Smuggler’s Notch to Jefferson. It is said that smugglers really used this route more than two centuries ago to secretly transport supplies to the Canadian-based British army. Near Stowe, try the gondola and auto road to Mount Mansfield’s summit for a picnic and unprecedented photo opportunity.
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Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island and Maine all offer unique opportunities to experience fall foliage at its best. Be sure to plan your trip to include some of the many fall country fairs and festivals.
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A web search of Fall Foliage in New England is sure to yield many great resources and ideas for tracking this year’s foliage, finding that perfect foliage town, schedules of fall fairs and events, and planning your perfect “leaf-peeping” visit to New England.
CHARREADAS
DESIGN DESTINATIONS Fall 2014
Through the Eyes of an Artist By Edmundo Ruano
Charreadas or Mexican rodeo, have been an important theme in a number of paintings by Canadian born artist Angeline Kyba. She has captured scenes of the charro culture through color, giving a representation of this tradition, and through her work, has contributed to the awareness and popularity of Charreria. Her paintings adorn the homes of private collectors and important museums in Mexico and around the world. We learn to understand the sentiment of this cultural tradition through her paintings as she captures its emotions, bravery and pageantry. Her paintings can also be seen in her own art gallery in Puerto Vallarta.
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Charreria is a culture, a tradition, a sport, and an art practice in Mexico. The charreada or charrería is a competitive event similar to a rodeo and was developed from animal husbandry practices used on the haciendas of old Mexico. The sport has been described as "living history," evolving from the traditions brought from Spain in the 16th century. The first charreadas were ranch worker competitions between haciendas. The modern Charreada developed after the Mexican Revolution when charro traditions were disappearing. Today, it is a festive event that incorporates equestrian competitions and demonstrations, distinct costumes and Painting in Mexico for almost 20 years, Angelique Kyba is affectionately known in Puerto Vallarta as “the only Canadian woman who is more Mexican than the Mexicans themselves.” Always a seeker of a people, a place, and a home, Kyba has found in Mexico a people who embrace her, a place to paint, and a home.
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horse trappings, music, and food. The competing charros often come from families with a tradition of Charreria, and the participating teams are often made up from extended families who have been performing for up to five generations. The competition consists of nine events for men plus one for women, all of which involve either horses, cattle or both. The participants in the event wear traditional clothing, including a closely fitted suit, boots, and a wide brim sombrero. The Charreada is highly structured with the events following a traditional sequence. The competition usually begins with a military march, the “Marcha Zacatecas,” played by a mariachi band. A procession follows, with representatives of the participating Charro associations riding horseback around the lienzo carrying flags and banners. They are followed by the members of the competing teams, and perhaps a “Charro Queen.” Once the opening ceremony is completed, the competitions begin.
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The Charreadas can be seen in nearby arenas in Puerto Vallarta throughout the year and championships take place in the fall. For more information please visit www.centrodeeventosvallarta.com
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Angelique Kyba is an internationally celebrated artist whose work has been shown and collected in Canada, the United States, Germany, Great Britain, South America, France, and Mexico, where she has her studio and now makes her home. Angie’s work was recently accepted into the prestigious international Quinta Bienal de Monterrey, and her portrait “Carmen” is featured in the National Geographic Hampton Brown publication, “Edge”.
DESIGN DESTINATIONS Fall 2014
EXTREMETRAVEL EXTREMETRAVEL SHARK FEEDING
WATER RAFTING
Coming face to face with one of the most feared creatures in the world can be the ultimate thrill, but it can also be a way to understand how wildlife interacts with humans.
Excursions range from simple to very dangerous. Before booking your experience, be sure to understand the degree of difficulty, as defined by the International Scale of River Difficulty,  
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Kite Surfing on Dorado Beach Puerto Rico
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SKY DIVING Are you ready to be infused with unsurpassed exhilaration? Feel the sensation of weightless in this adrenaline filled experience.
DESIGN DESTINATIONS Fall 2014
Extreme Travel People travel in search of new experiences, to fill their memory bank with new discoveries and to enhance their worldview. For some, it is the perfect experience of their palate, for others it is discovery of a new culture, but there is a new breed of travelers who look for experiences where their nerves are tested, their fears are faced and where adrenaline takes over above reason. They look for the thrill of adventure and to return home as conquerors of Extreme Travel. In today’s world many destinations are offering the ultimate extreme adventure, giving their visitors that opportunity to explore the thrill of pushing their limits. Instead of experiencing the traditional tranquil vacation, these destinations offer the opportunity for visitors to test their ability to cope with the fear of jumping off the highest bridge, come faceto-face with a shark, cross a mountain hanging from a cable or walk so close to lava rivers that their shoes begin to melt. Extreme Travel is a way of traveling that, in some cases, involves danger, extreme danger. The extreme traveler searches for deeper, heart pounding experiences that test his or her limits. Perhaps in some way, this compensates for our sedentary lives of days filled with emails, meetings and conference calls. Perhaps the days of sitting behind a desk fail to satisfy the adventurous spirit deep inside of us. Extreme Travel fills the gap between relaxation and thrills. Extreme Travel is offered at many levels of excitement which can be tailored to the traveler, based on the ultimate goal. For the extreme traveler, the opportunities to test their bravery and stamina are endless. Running with the bulls, diving with and feeding sharks, hanging from a parachute, kite surfing or water rafting are just some examples of what is available. The key is to find the right experience and to ask the question “Do I have to do this?� if the answer is YES, then when planning your next travel experience, take a walk on the wild side and test your sense of adventure. The choices are endless.
Water Rafting Costa Rica Experiences that will leave you breathless
Photos courtesy of PanoramaTours Costa Rica www.panoramacr.com
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DESIGN DESTINATIONS Fall 2014
IMPROVE YOUR HOTEL’S DATING LIFE By Jeremy Mason McGraw
Let's imagine for a minute that you are an eligible single person asking another eligible person over for dinner. This relates to hotel photography, so stick with me.
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You may have an award-winning personality, and people may speak very highly of you, but first impressions are very important.
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First, you would want to show this person that you “have it together,” so you would focus a little more on your appearance. Of course, your personality and the core of who you are will win them over, but that first impression is ground zero and you want everything on your side in the beginning.
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As a single eligible guy who also happens to be a hotel photographer, I know that attracting a lady and attracting new bookings to a hotel have a lot of similarities. A hotel may have great reviews and award-winning
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service, but the hotel’s appearance must give the reassurance and reinforcement of that to your guests. Every step leading up to a booking is part of the decision making process.
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If you are still reading this, then there is a good chance you are a hotel marketer or at least have an interest in hotel marketing. You may also already understand this about sales and marketing. Yet, even within the industry, some fail to understand how this applies to their most visible marketing asset, photography.
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We are wired to see first. In fact, the brain processes visual information from images ten thousand times faster than it processes text. There is also research that shows people are significantly more likely to book after seeing a great visual presentation. Knowing this, you may wonder how you can raise the effectiveness of your hotel's images. The answer is simple:
treat every photo that you create like it is going on your hotel's dating site profile, because it probably will. You need to put your best image forward, with confidence, show your personality and shoot under the most flattering light. Be the best you, but don’t be anything but you.
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In this day of diversified marketing channels and social media, a potential client may discover you through media you do not control. They may not even see you through media you created. However, when they do come looking to book, it is highly likely that media you created will be a significant influence in their booking decision. The media you create is also a powerful trigger to lure your loyal customers back to stay again.
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As a hotel photographer, it is my passion to bring out the best in every client I capture, so I have compiled a few thoughts for you to consider when creating your marketing media.
DESIGN DESTINATIONS Fall 2014
What's your sign? There is no power in numbers if the cumulative effect of all your media is weak. Every image and video should have a purpose and work to tell the story of your amazing product and offerings. A great hotel knows it sells an experience, not just a room. Each image should present a little part of the conversation about that experience. The welcome note, in-house floral, amazing elegant room service, or the stunning view, whether it be large or small, think about each picture as if it were the ice breaker to that conversation. Invest in making each image beautiful. It will speak highly of your attention to detail.
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What is that scent you are
wearing?
Although it is important to make a great first impression in every image, it is essential to convey what you really are as a hotel. Take pride in what you offer but don't oversell. Don't fill the rooms with amenities that are not offer and do not drastically alter the photos so that they no longer represent your accommodations. It takes a lot of work during a photo-shoot to make each image pleasing to the camera. Sometimes things get moved and tidied up because some details that may not stand out in person will stand in a photo. Don't be afraid to produce great shots that feature your rooms and amenities, but do make sure they hold up in reality.
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Are you from around here or? In the case of many hotels and resorts, location is a key point of sale. Exotic or not, try to capture a little of the local culture in your images. Regional cuisine, local landmarks and local views will give more texture to your image and your story. Even if you don't have direct views of local landmarks or cultural districts, they still add context to your hotel. Simple touches like an image of note cards on a table that depict them, a plate of locally famous confectionaries or shopping bags from a nearby
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shopping district can infuse a sense of connection with the destination.
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You have a great personality! You have an awesome staff. Show them off. Hospitality is about people. If your guests had a good time, they probably also had a great personal experience with your staff. Maybe it was a detail attended to by a housekeeper.
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It’s so romantic in the moonlight! There are many ways to professionally capture your hotel’s interior images. They range from fully lighting the rooms for photography to composing images from multiple exposures using only existing light. Although great images are possible with all these techniques, the only way to ensure consistency across different lighting conditions in different locations and different times of day is to use photography lighting. Lighting makes all of the difference in a photo. I personally only shoot rooms under my lighting. Proper lighting ensures that all the details of the furnishings and view are balanced in the image. Shooting with proper photography lighting also
offers the advantage of controlling the time of day depicted in your images. Most people will be in their rooms in the evenings and in the morning. These are also lighting situations that are often most flattering to a room. It makes sense that you would want to depict the rooms during these times. Here is a video that shows how a room changes before and after proper lighting: http:// youtu.be/Q4np1csQe4E
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In the end, think of your images as an extension of the experience you provide. They are more than a menu, they are an invitation to the rich memories that you will provide for your guests upon their arrival.
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Jeremy Mason McGraw is the owner and creative director of Global Image Creation, a company providing worldclass photography and video services for international luxury hotels, resorts and travel destinations for over a decade. For more information visit LuxuryHotelPhotographer.com
DESIGN DESTINATIONS Fall 2014
THE ART OF WEAVING IN LATIN AMERICA Telling Stories Through Textiles Storytelling is perhaps the most powerful technique used by humans to connect the past with the future and one culture to another. We see it in history, literature, film, music, art, dance, folklore, crafts and in textiles. The use of imagery and symbolism in textiles is a tradition commonly seen throughout Latin America, especially in areas with high indigenous populations. There is a presence of symbols that have been around for generations. Many of the images in the designs reflect nature, and since traditionally, women work the looms, many of the patterns represent the story of their daily lives. Weaving is more than just a way of earning a living, it has great social importance. As grandmothers, daughters and granddaughters sit with other family members to weave garments, they discuss style and techniques, but most of all, it is an opportunity to discuss social issues such as marriage, child birth, the herbs used for healing, or to exchange recipes. The descendants of the Maya in Mexico and Central America are one of the largest indigenous populations in the Americas. Although culture is often thought of in terms of its pre-Hispanic achievements, Mayan cultural traditions persist and are reflected in the tradition of weaving. The Mayans are well known for the beauty, quality, use of color and sophistication of their textiles. This takes a different meaning because of the simplicity of the
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tools used to produce textiles. In Panama, native designs are related to pre-Hispanic body painting. Today, mola (blouse) designs include abstract geometric motifs from the natural world, and depict topics related to politics, popular culture, or Kuna (Indigenous tribe in Panama) legends. And in Colombia, the selection of designs is part of the ancestral knowledge, the environment and the needs of each human group.
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Weaving in Latin America, as in many other cultures, is a way of expression. The patterns found in traditional Andean weaving are almost endless. Some of the most commonly used symbols depicting nature represent the flora, the universe and the element of water.
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Knowledge and understanding of indigenous communities through their textiles is an art with, with each textile telling the story of a woman, her spirit, and her community. Textiles are made with personality and with many meanings. Each textile woven represents a tradition that has lived for centuries and holds the secrets, the events, or in some cases, the suffering of a person or a community. Textiles tell us the story. Their threads are their words and the colors and design are just a bonus.
DESIGN DESTINATIONS Fall 2014
ALTAGRACIA A NEW LUXURY DESTINATION IN COSTA RICA
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DESIGN DESTINATIONS Fall 2014
ALTAGRACIA Set atop Costa Rica’s mountains, on 350 acres of unspoiled land and surrounded by a national park, AltaGracia is a new luxury destination that will debut in early 2015. Boasting fifty stunning standalone Casitas, the resort brings a new luxury experience to Costa Rica. Guests will enjoy three unique restaurants, three themed bars, a library and a wine cellar. You will not want to miss the beautiful Spa which features indoor and outdoor treatment rooms, several in private settings with unobstructed views of the beautiful mountains. A highlight to your stay will be visiting the magnificent stable, home to majestic horses.
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Arriving at AltaGracia makes one feel as if they were entering a friend’s home for the weekend. You are welcomed by an amazing landscape, brooks, waterfalls and a variety of brilliant flowers. This ideal location and weather, allows flowers to bloom year round. The landscape is prominently showcased throughout the property and every one of the 50 Casitas is complemented by its own unique landscape design.
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The Casitas are scattered at various elevations throughout the property, and are connected by rambling pathways. The decor of each Casita is designed to complement its surroundings. Contemporary and traditional furnishings were selected to provide a comfortable, yet elegant ambiance with beautifully detailed elements using the finest local woods. Each Casita has its own personality with different palettes varying from soft greens and blues to warm reds and yellows. Furnishings were designed to give every unit a sense of home, with a fireplace as the centerpiece.
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The weather is always appealing with days that are warm and sunny and evenings which are cool and fresh as AltaGracia welcomes the mountain rain giving an unexpected and peaceful turn to this piece of heaven. AltaGracia means “high grace”, and the property honors its name by being so high that it touches the clouds. It is said that as you immerse yourself in the peace and tranquility of the amazing surroundings, you may even hear the clouds share their secrets.
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AltaGracia is part of the undiscovered Costa Rica. It is just a few hours by private and comfortable transportation from the International Airport of San Jose via a scenic road that travels through three separate ecosystems - the rainforest, the seaside and the mountain range. The journey is a wonderful part of the experience. The resort can also be reached by private plane, a short 25 minutes flight. AltaGracia offers a private fleet of planes, as well as their own airstrip. Regardless of how you choose to reach AltaGracia, the minute you arrive, you will be met by the friendliest staff, the most amazing views of the mountains and countryside and you will immediately be immersed into the peace and tranquility of this magical destination.
DESIGN DESTINATIONS Fall 2014
PAN AM AND ME ! By Franz Buchhalter
As I was going through some of my personal items that I keep in a storage warehouse, I came across a Pan Am pin that I have saved since I was a child. I don't know why I have kept it for all these years, but my wife always says that I "collect" things. She is right, I do, I always have, I like to think of myself as a sentimental kind of a guy. Going back to the pin…You see when I saw it I immediately remembered my connection with Pan Am and how I got the pin. It was on a trip from Guatemala to New York City on a Pan Am flight - it was 1971, when Guatemala was a major hub for Pan Am and it served as a connection to Central and South America. There were direct flights from New York, Miami, Los Angeles and other gateway cities in the US. and to get to South America you most likely had to stop in Guatemala City.
see the world and my first trip to Europe was with Pan Am.
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In 1981, when the American hostages were released after being in captivity for 444 days in Iran, I was coming home from a trip from Italy in a Pan Am flight and I remember the captain saying that the plane carrying the released hostages was behind ours. Everyone in the plane cheered and clapped and many even cried tears of joy.
“Jets carrying Pan Am's logo of a blue globe left 29 cities in Asia and Europe on Friday to cross the globe for last time, nearly ending the airline's presence on the trans-Atlantic route that it pioneered in 1939” Richard E. Smith, New York Times 1991
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I have a picture that I treasure very much of my mother when she met her father for the first time in Panama. Back then there were no bridges and passengers deplaned on the runway where people were allowed to meet you as you came off the plane. In the back of the picture you can see the Pan Am plane - How she loved that picture! I think she was in her twenties. Many years later I Pan Am was my favorite airline, went to meet my grandfather and and when I grew up I tried to get I, too flew on Pan Am. The airline a job with them. I remember and I have a lot of memories and making the first interview and as nostalgic as it is for many going to the Pan Am building in people, it is very special to me. New York City for my second Both my mother and grandfather interview, where there were ten of are no longer with me and now us applying for one position. For their reunion picture, like the pin me working for Pan Am was a that I found, will always have a way to see the world and Pan Am special place in my heart. represented the world. Sadly (or fortunately as I learned later in life,) I didn't get the job, but I did
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Photo: ABC TV
DESIGN DESTINATIONS Fall 2014
WYNWOOD WALLS - MIAMI Museum of the Streets By Jennifer Haz In just a few years Wynwood has turned into a trendy art hub. The Wynwood Arts District contains over 70 galleries, museums and collections. It is the center of "cool" in Miami right now, drawing in thousands during Art Basel for its pop up parties and galleries and inspiring unusual collaborations between musicians, artists, graphic designers, commercial brands and all kinds of creative types. The once quiet neighborhood surrounded by warehouses is now in the midst of a gentrified renaissance.
The world-class murals continue to attract thousands of people to Wynwood each year. Among other things, it is an inspiring model for the revitalization of run-down, abandoned historic communities and a must-see destination for the city.
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The Wynwood Walls, a giant set of outdoor murals are decorated by some of street art's most famous names including, Shepard Fairey of the Obama Hope poster fame, was conceived by the renowned community revitalizer and place maker, the late Tony Goldman in 2009. Starting with the 25th–26th Street complex of six separate buildings, Goldman’s goal was to create a center where people could gravitate to and explore, and to develop the area's pedestrian potential. Murals by renowned street artists have covered the walls of the Wynwood Walls complex since 2009, and to create more canvases and bring more artists to the project, Tony opened the Wynwood Doors in 2010 with 176 feet of roll-up storefront gates. The painted exteriors and interiors of the doors reveal a portrait gallery. Murals have also been commissioned for Outside the Walls through 2011, in key locations outside the park itself.
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Photos courtesy of the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau www.gmcvb.com
DESIGN DESTINATIONS Fall 2014
A Candid Conversation with William D. Talbert IIl President and CEO of The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau William D. Talbert III, President and CEO of the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau has been involved in the growth and development of Miami for close to 25 years. During his tenure, the brand of Miami has been rejuvenated and the destination reinvented. Miami is now arguably one of the most diverse and cosmopolitan luxury destinations in the world. As Bill puts it, “Miami is all grown up.” Bill recently took a few moments to share with us his vision for Miami.
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MIAMI- TROPICAL, COSMOPOLITAN AND ALL GROWN UP! DD: You have been actively involved in the growth, development and promotion of Miami for almost 25 years. As you look at Miami today, what aspects of the destination have fulfilled your vision and what parts have surprised you?
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WT: We had a vision, a couple of strategic plans ago, to be the top luxury destination in the United States and within 5 years we surpassed that. Today we are on a world platform, we are looking at global competition and if you are not global today, you are nowhere. We have offices covering 40 cities worldwide. Last year for the first time, maybe in any US destination, we had more foreign visitors than domestic.
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DD Miami has clearly become an international and cosmopolitan city. What is your vision for Miami 10 years from now? WT: If you turn the clock back 10 years—the world was vastly different, and will be that different again in another 5-10 years. But in the next 10 years we have our eye on the ball clearly to be the top luxury destination in the world. Maybe not in 10 years, but in less than 5, China will be the top inbound traveling country. We would like to get some of that business. By then we will have direct lift from China. We just started direct service from Qatar to Miami. That gives us a leg into Asia and it is the first breakthrough.
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DD: Can you talk about the changes we will need to make to our infrastructure to sustain the growth and vision?
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WT: The one issue we just really need to get our arms around is transportation. The traffic situation, the
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physical movement of people from east to west, and north to south is an issue that has to be dealt with.
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DD: What are the solutions? WT: More mass transit, a rail connector from the far west to Miami Beach, the new trolley system. A public private partnership is being proposed for a light rail from downtown to Miami Beach Convention Center. There are things that are already going to happen— All Aboard Florida will have a station in Miami, a stop in Fort Lauderdale and Palm Beach, and then off to Orlando airport in 2 hours and 40 minutes. That is going to be great—connecting us and Orlando.
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DD: What is the market proportion for your key markets- domestic, European, Latin American? WT: Latin America has always been an important market. One third of our market is Latin America—6 out of our top 10 markets are Latin American. Brazil is at the top of the market.
DESIGN DESTINATIONS Fall 2014
In 2010 Brazil became Miami’s first billion dollar international market. It may be that in 4 years, that doubles to $2 billion dollars. Brazil continues to grow at close to 10% annually. Canada is our number two international market.!
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DD: Is there a single destination that you see as your strongest competition for the Latin American market? WT: Remember we are the “Capital of Latin America”—but it might be Panama. Panama is aggressive and they are well positioned.
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DD: What does the growth rate look like for the US market? WT: The US is now almost half of our market, and is growing at 2-3% per year. It is led by New York. In 2013 we had 756,000 Brazilians and from New York City alone, we had 1.8 million. That is comparing a country to a city.
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DD: For those who have not seen today’s Miami, what is the biggest misconception that travelers have about the destination?
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WT: That’s an easy one. They think it is all South Beach and clubs. We have a phrase, “we are more than a beach.” We’ve got culture, and heritage, and we are the only place in the US with two national parks. We have the largest collection of boutique hotels in the world—the unique space we sell to is that we are one of the very few destinations in the world that is both tropical and cosmopolitan.
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DD: What an opportunity for someone in your profession—where aside from Miami could you have the opportunity to work across so many facets of development?
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WT: Some people say “you have the easiest job in the town.” Remember, the Miami brand for a while was totally dead. It is a matter of build it, and sell it, and have a vision. We now are very brand centric- Metro Zoo is now Zoo Miami. The Port of Miami is now Port Miami. South Florida Historical Museum is now is History Miami. We have really worked on getting the brand name out there—the brand, the brand. I am the brand police---I eat, drink and sleep it. Whatever is best for the brand---that is it. I have been here through all the tough days, every bad thing that has happened here as well as the good, the emergence of South Beach, the internationalization of our community and the fact that it is easy to get to. I will give you an example of how grown up we are, and how quickly we’ve become grown up. There is a piece of property in downtown Miami—1.2 acres on the river –it was put on the market for $110mil. It sold to Argentines one week later for $125mil. This shows how powerful the Miami brand is.
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DD: Take off your tourism hat for a moment and become a visitor. What one thing most delights you about Miami? WT: It’s the diversity. The people, the residents, visitors, the neighborhoods…all make it extraordinarily exciting. This is not a one-dimensional place. DD: What is your elevator pitch of why Miami is the finest destination experience in the world? WT: It is easy to get to, it’s tropical and cosmopolitan, and it is international. Maybe we also need to have a phrase—“Come visit Miami—we’re very close to the United States.” We are one of the most international cities in the US and we are on a global platform. Let me mention one thing that points to that—Art Basel. Art Basel could have been anywhere outside of Europe and they chose Miami. It is a marriage made in heaven. The whole package of Art Basel, Design Miami, Art Miami and the 35 other shows that are here are arguably the number one art event as a package in the world today. Thomas Wolfe called it the “Running of the Billionaires”
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WT: There is a design show in Paris called Maison & Objets. It is a world famous home interior design show with an attendance of 85,000. They are coming in May of 2015. Their vision is that they could develop into another Art Basel. Remember, “We are more than a beach.” We are also working on the high tech events. There is a show created this year called E-merge. There is this vision of us being Silicon Beach. They anticipated attendance of 5K and had 6,500 in the first year.
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DD: What is the next “Art Basel” that is in your sights?
DD: Any comments on the cruise industry? WT: We are the “cruise capital of the world”. It is a downtown port. This is one of the top cruise ports around the world. You also have the 3 top Cruise lines headquartered here and the world’s top cruise show takes place here every year. So by any standard- we are the cruise capital of the world. The Cruise industry represents about 8% of our 14 million visitors. DD: I can’t talk to you without asking for your comments on all the recent discussions involving David Beckham and of bringing soccer to Miami. Your thoughts?
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WT: We are the sports capital of the world. We have all the professional sports, the season ending race for NASCAR every year, one of the five top world golf championships events takes place here, we have a grand slam tennis tournament, and Yes, Beckham will be in Miami. The shirt he wore all during World Cup had one word on it—“Miami.” He is going to be here for all the reasons we just talked about. He wants to ride that horse. Beckham will be here. He gets it and wants to be a part of this great brand.
DESIGN DESTINATIONS Fall 2014
Chef Miguel Aguilar Changing the “Miami Flavor”
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A native of Venezuela, his family relocated to Philadelphia when he was ten years old, where his mother earned her master’s degree. His family returned to Venezuela in the early ‘90s, and he worked for a tourism company, providing tours of the local farmers’ markets. Here, the vibrant, natural produce beckoned him and he began preparing family meals using the finest produce available, perfecting classic Latin dishes and improvising on his own. He loved his time in the kitchen and recognized this was his natural career path. With that in mind, in the mid-90s he moved back to Philadelphia to pursue his dream, earning a culinary degree while working part-time at a variety of neighborhood restaurants, and learning every aspect of the business. He evolved into a fine chef, landing a job in 1999 as a line cook for Philadelphia restaurateur Derek Davis, owner of the acclaimed restaurants Sonoma, Kansas City Prime and Arroyo Grille. From 2001-2005, he was chef de cuisine at Alma de Cuba, where he supervised kitchen operations under the watchful eye of chef/owner Doug Rodriguez, and served as the restaurant’s executive chef, from 2006-2008. From 2008-2010 Aguilar was event catering chef for the legendary Philadelphia restaurateur Stephen Starr and part of the opening team for El Rey restaurant. You can experience Chef Aguilar’s cuisine at Wynwood Kitchen & Bar in Miami.
THE OTHER RED If you are not familiar with Carménère wine, you are not alone. This wine made with the carménère grape was originally from the Bordeaux region in France where it was used in blends to support cabernet sauvignon and merlot wines; however, as it is such a late ripening grape, it fell out of use in France and today it is mainly found in Chile.
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The Carménère grape is a member of the Cabernet family of grapes and the name originates from the French word crimson which refers to the brilliant color of the grape. The Other Red is considered part of the original six grapes of Bordeaux Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Malbec and Petit Verdot.
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!! !! !! !! !! “Working
with fine ingredients and making each dish vibrant and memorable is what I’m about.”
Miguel Aguilar
DESIGN DESTINATIONS Fall 2014
CARTAGENA - Colorful, Romantic and Vibrant By Edmundo Ruano Cartagena is colorful and vibrant with a heritage of mixed cultures. The city evokes its history in its streets, the facades of its homes, its people and especially the joyful spirit that is both contagious and enviable. Cartagena is a captivating city, with a unique charm, where balconies are embraced by colorful bougainvilleas, where impressive churches welcome you and a protective wall stands guard like a mother, reminding its visitors of a past where battles were fought and won for the sole purpose of freedom.
The people of Cartagena are a fusion of several cultures - native aborigines, the Spanish, the Africans and the Arabs. This cultural blend has left the mark of its heritage on the way of life, the dance and, the music all of which collectively form an atmosphere that charms and captivates. Cartagena is a city of cultural expressions and folklore where brilliant hues of colors welcome you and constantly reappear throughout the city. Each year Cartagena is home to cultural events of worldwide importance such as the International Film Festival of Cartagena de Indias is located in the center of the Cartagena, the Hay Festival, and the International Music northeastern Caribbean coast of Colombia. Its historic Festival. center, known as the ÂŤWalled CityÂť, was declared a National Heritage Site of Colombia in 1959, and for Visitors to Cartagena will be captivated by its people, being a city steeped in history, it was declared a World bewitched by its culture and charmed by its history. To Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1984. Cartagena is a city visit Cartagena de Indias is to venture into something full of romance with many alleys serving as testimony to secret meetings between lovers. Every street, every new and exciting.
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corner, every square has a secret which is zealously protected. This romantic setting is a location that invites its visitors to venture through the streets and create new secrets.
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For more information please visit: www.cartagenadeindias.com
DESIGN DESTINATIONS Fall 2014
Silvia Tcherassi
Style, Elegance and Design Silvia Tcherassi is considered one of the most creative, innovative and versatile personalities in the world of fashion. With 20 years in the industry, Tcherassi has showcased her brand on an International stage having shown her prêt-à-porter collections at the fashion weeks in both Milan and Paris as a special guest of the organizers. Her style has been defined by the Dizionario della Moda as eclectic, her clothes, as having the delicateness of a ballet dancer, while at the same time, the strength of a rock star. Her prêt-à-porter gave rise to the concept of demi-couture while her wedding gowns have become the perfect vehicle for her creative talent; She was recognized by the invitation to have one of her pieces at the “Unbridaled: The Marriage of Tradition and Avant Garde” exhibition in Paris. Her approach to fashion has made her deserving of important international recognition, including her receipt of the prestigious designation of “Chevalier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres” by the French Government; an honor bestowed upon leaders of the international arts community for their “contribution and commitment to cultural service.” Searching to expand her vision beyond fashion, in October of 2009 Tcherassi opened her first namesake luxury hotel in Cartagena, Colombia to much critical acclaim as part of the new Tcherassi Hotel Collection. The property was named one of the “Best New Hotels” by both Travel + Leisure and Conde Nast Traveler, as well as being noted as one of the top “Designer Hotels” by Town & Country and Smart Luxury Travel. With the hotel design, Tcherassi successfully translated her fashion concepts into the design of spaces and the creation of experiences. In March of 2009, Random House published her first book “Elegancia sin esfuerzo” (Effortless Elegance) about her approach to fashion and style. Born in Baranquilla, Colombia on the shores of the Caribbean, Tcherassi began her career as an interior designer, but the search for new artistic expression led her to the world of fashion. Her collections include prêt-à-porter, bridal and an
“My approach to design is casual luxury oriented. I believe in calm,, pure and relaxed luxury without pretensions” SILVIA TCHERASSI
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accessories line, which can all be found at her namesake boutiques throughout Colombia. Producing two unique collections per year, Silvia Tcherassi continues to push the boundaries of color and texture creating highly sought after luxurious, yet comfortable, elegant clothing and accessories for the modern woman. For more information, visit www.silviatcherassi.com.
DESIGN DESTINATIONS Fall 2014
Photo by KINO
CURAÇAO UNDISCOVERED The name Curaçao may have originated from the Portuguese word Coração or heart since the island was the center of trade during the time of the colonies. And indeed this lovely island remains the heart of the group of islands known as "ABC" - Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao.
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Curaçao has a rich history dating back to the 16th century when European colonists were sent to map the borders of South America and the surrounding Caribbean islands. The interest of Spanish colonizers diminished when they discovered that there was no gold on the island and that farming was very difficult because of the lack of fresh water. Spain remained on the island throughout the sixteenth century when Curaçao served as a bridge for the exploration and Spanish conquest of territories in northern South America. The Netherlands took over the island in the mid 16th century converting it into a trading post and establishing a colony that would exist for many centuries later.
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Curaçao's culture embraces many languages. Although Dutch is the official language, English, and Spanish are also widely spoken. Many residents speak Papiamentu - a mixture of Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch, French, English, and Arawak.
Curaçaoans love to socialize, and are known for their friendliness. It is common for someone to wave and throw a friendly "Bon Bini!" - Welcome! or "Kon ta bai?" - How about you?
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Willemstad, the capital of Curaçao resembles a city in the Netherlands with the small difference that their buildings are painted in pastel colors giving a singular charm which was recognized by granting the title of World Heritage City by the UNESCO.
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Boasting sugar fine sand and calm waters, the beaches of Curaçao are amazing. There are plenty of hidden beaches around the island just waiting to be explored. Other interesting attractions are the caves of Hato which were first formed thousands of years ago and even today continue to form. It is also important to visit Curaçao’s many national parks, including the stunning "Christoffel Park" which is located approximately a 40 minute drive from downtown Willemstad; and "Shere Boka Park" National Park, with its rugged coastline and the Natural Bridge Curaçao.
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Undiscovered, isolated as an exclusive paradise, Curaçao is a Caribbean secret that has been guarded jealously…until now.
DESIGN DESTINATIONS Fall 2014
In the launch of new hotels, what is the most important thing that hoteliers should include in the marketing message? BOBBY ZUR, TRAVEL ARTISTRY - NEW YORK “From a messaging/marketing perspective, the best thing a new hotel launch can achieve is to create excitement about the hotel as a gathering place for discerning locals, so there is already a buzz at time of opening.”
PAT WALKER, PAT WALKER TRAVEL - BEVERLY HILLS
“I think that sometimes there are a few misses in the marketing message when launching a new property. Hoteliers do not sell what makes their property unique or different from other hotels. Highlighting the “trendy” features may not be the best practice. Instead they should highlight what will set them apart from the competition. Also seldom do hoteliers focus on the staff in their marketing. It is very important because, after the room is sold, they are the first and last people that the guest will interact with. Sometimes this can make the experience and will determine if the guest will return.”
LANCE STAMPS, CLASSIC TRAVEL - NEW YORK “In the world of luxury it’s not only about having a great product, it’s also very important to create a unique synergy with the guest that will be coming through the doors! As the hotel is being marketed to agents, It’s important not only to sell the physical beauty of the hotel and its services but also focus on the vibe and atmosphere of the property.”
OLGA RAMUDO, EXPRESS TRAVEL - MIAMI “The most important thing that hoteliers should not miss in the marketing of new properties, is how they differentiate themselves from the competition…. In other words, what makes them different? Why should this new property be chosen over the competition? Are any amenities being offered? Is the location superb? Does the Spa offer a unique product line? Does the restaurant have an exquisite menu? Needless to say, to educate agents on the property is key so that they are knowledgeable in their offerings to the clients.”
DONNA WONG, ALLURE PLUS TRAVEL - LOS ANGELES
"A hotel’s marketing message should communicate the warmth of the employees, their attentiveness to detail and their desire in providing world class service which ultimately, leads to a memorable experience.”
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DESIGN DESTINATIONS Fall 2014
SOPHIA LOREN “There is a fountain of youth: it is your mind, your talents, the creativity you bring to your life and the lives of people you love. When you learn to tap this source, you will truly have defeated age” Sophia Loren
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One of the World Cinema’s Greatest Treasures Sophia Loren is considered one of the most beautiful women in the history of film. Her beauty captivated the world and today when other actresses of her era are enjoying retirement, Ms. Loren continues to enhance the big screen.
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Sophia Loren was born as Sofia Scicolone in Rome, Italy where she grew up in the slums of Pozzuoli during the second World War. At the age of 14, her life took an unexpected turn for the best when she entered a beauty contest where her beauty earned her a place as the top finalist. It was there that Sophia caught the attention of film producer Carlo Ponti, whom she eventually married
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in 1966. Under his guidance, Sophia appeared as an extra in films before working her way up to supporting roles and subsequently to leading roles. In 1957, she embarked on a successful acting career in the United States, starring in three films made in 1957 - “Boy on a Dolphin”, “Legend of the Lost”, and “The Pride of Passion”. During her engagement in Hollywood under a contract with Paramount Picture, she made several films including two with Cary Grant. She returned to Italy to star in “Two Women” (1960). The film was a period piece about a woman living in war-torn Italy who is raped while trying to protect her young daughter. This performance received international acclaim and was
honored with an Academy Award for Best Actress. In 1991 Sophia received an Honorary Academy Award for her body of work, and was declared "one of the world cinema's greatest treasures" Sophia continued acting and made several films in the 90‘s and in 2009, after far too much time away from film, she appeared in the musical “Nine” opposite Daniel Day-Lewis.
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Today, Sophia remains as one of the most beautiful women in film and at 79, continues to work. In her latest film “The Human Voice”, directed by her son, she plays a woman in her twilight years facing revelations from her past.
DESIGN DESTINATIONS Fall 2014
DISCOVERIES PURA VIDA!
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The minute you arrive in Costa Rica you begin to hear a very popular expression consisting of two words that will be repeated many times throughout your stay. “PURA VIDA” is a characteristic phrase. Its literal translation is “pure life”, however, the real meaning is closer to "plenty of life", "full of life", "this is living!", "going great", or "real living”. The phrase can be used in many ways; It can be used both as a greeting or a farewell, as an answer expressing that things are going well, or as a way of giving thanks. No one really knows how this word made it to the Costa Rican culture although there is a belief that it was adopted from a 50”s film called ¡Pura vida!. In the film the expression was used frequently to convey a feeling, a situation or was said just for no reason at all. Costa Ricans use the phrase in a similar way. In the 90’s it was formally recognized and incorporated into dictionaries. One thing is for sure, everything in Costa Rica is “PURA VIDA!”.
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Just for Fun Many visitors that come to Salvador de Bahia, in the northern part of Brazil can’t leave without taking with them a ribbon tied to their wrists from the Bombim Church. The “wish ribbon” started in the 1809 when people began tying ribbons around their wrists with three knots. Each knot represents one wish, and to make the wish come true, the ribbon had to stay in the wrist until it fell off. Bombim wish ribbons are now sold in front of the church, and just like the bridge of love in Paris, they adorn the fences that surround the church. No one really knows how this tradition came to Bahia, but rumors have that it may have come from Africa during the slave trading period. So next time you visit Bahia don't forget to pick up your lucky ribbon and who knows, your wishes may come true.
AFTER THE
Brazil concluded a tremendously successful World Cup, despite the criticism they had previously received from the media questioning whether Brazil was ready to host the most important celebration and event in the world of sports. The month long event was viewed by over 751.1 million people worldwide. The sports fans watched each of the soccer matches between teams representing 64 countries. Soccer Giants like Italy, Portugal and Spain were eliminated unexpectedly by long shot teams from countries like Costa Rica, Algeria,
Wishing for Love, Wealth, or
Colombia and the United States. This World Cup launched to fame players like the 22 year old Colombian James Rodriguez and goalie Keylor Navas from Costa Rican. This Cup showed us that “We Believe” and that the club of champions from past cups which has dominated the tournament since it’s inception must now, open the door to new ones. Brazil did a magnificent job in showing the world that they can host world class events like the World Cup and we thank you Brazil for giving us the opportunity to enjoy another celebration of the most popular sport in the world. OBRIGADO BRAZIL!
FIREBALL Pitbull’s latest song FIREBALL in collaboration with John Ryan is yet another great song. If you don’t know who Pitbull is, check out his website and take a happy ride. Anyone who is anyone in the pop music world has performed with him - from Ke$ha, to Jennifer Lopez to Pharell Williams and he has been the opening artist to several music and sporting events. For more on Pitbull visit his website. http://www.pitbullmusic.com/us
DESIGN DESTINATIONS Fall 2014
IN OUR NEXT ISSUE
BAOASE LUXURY RESORT CURAÇAO
Las Polleras
San Sebastian Street Party
Running with Bulls
DESIGN DESTINATIONS Fall 2014
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