Elite Lifestyle Magazine

E L I TE L I FE STY L E MAGAZ I NE. CO M / I SSU E # 1

The Royal Purnama

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Beautiful Oceanfront Retreat 26 Chanel fashion designer, Karl Lagerfeld has died aged 85 in hospital after his secret cancer battle.

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One of the seven wonders of the natural world, the Great Barrier Reef is larger than the Great Wall of China.

The Grand Canyon will take your breath away, one of the most dramatic landscapes on earth stretching as far as the eye can see

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Table of Content

06.

The Royal Purnama

This beautiful oceanfront retreat in the south east corner of Bali is the perfect relaxation getaway.

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Heron Island

One of the seven wonders of the natural world, the Great Barrier Reef is larger than the Great Wall of China.

12.

Chloe Wise

Chloe Wise combines a passion for fashion, food and contemporary art through the use of leather in her project – Bread Bags.

16.

Château Kirwan

Château Kirwan is an award-winning château: in 2008 and 2012 it won the “Best of Tourism”.

19.

Beyond The Slopes

Ride from peak to peak in the worlds longest and highest gondola, spanning 2.73 miles over 1,400 feet.

25.

Mirazur

The Three Michelin Star awarded culinary masters at Mirazur in Menton, France have got every base covered.

26.

Karl Lagerfeld

Chanel fashion designer, Karl Lagerfeld has died aged 85 in hospital after his secret cancer battle.

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American Bar, Savoy

130 years of practice in drinks mixing can get you a long way in the hospitality industry.

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Resort Bad Ragaz

The Grand Resort Bad Ragaz is nestled in the foothills of the Alps, the views alone are worth a visit.

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Italy, Milan

Barbara Conelli

When life gives you twists and turns, chique yourself up in Italy.

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Milan, Italy

Château Monfort hotelchateaumonfort.com

A 5-star hotel with a romantic heart.

Inspired by the concept of a fairytale setting, the elegantly furnished interiors welcome each guest into a magical and visionary atmosphere.

With each of the 77 rooms individually themed, your experience is guaranteed to be unique whilst sparking an emotional impact.

Fusing modern and timeless features, guests can unwind in the heavenly Spa Amore & Psiche; you’re surrounded by aromas and precious gold details as you rejuvenate in their hidden pool or Turkish bath.

When dining at Restaurant Rubacuori, guests have the option in which to be seated; a cosy room adorned with

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colourful furnishings or an elegantly redesigned space – meaning your visit can be altered every breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Chateau Monfort’s Executive Chef enhances the traditional recipes by selecting only the most supreme of fresh Italian ingredients.

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£188 per night

€ 217 • $ 242

Indonesia, Bali, Kabupaten Gianyar

The Royal Purnama

theroyalpurnama.com

This beautiful oceanfront retreat in the south east corner of Bali is the perfect relaxation getaway. Perfectly situated, beautifully designed and staffed by the nicest people on earth, The Royal Purnama is one to add to your bucket list.

The Royal Purnama’s in-house Black Sand Spa uses the mineral rich black sand from the Full Moon beach upon which it is situated, alongside sea salts and earth elements to honour the ancient remedies of the island.

The spa utilises the rich healing traditions of Bali in such treatments as aroma steam, Thai massage and reflexology. The Black Sand Spa is also home to Bali’s first healing volcanic sandpit, if you’re feeling adventurous.

There are stunning views of the black sand beach to the south and the mountains to the east, whilst the resort itself celebrates an authentic Indonesian décor mixed with modern facilities. Offering suites and villas, private pools, jacuzzies, four poster beds and grandiose

furnishings, it is no wonder The Royal Purnama made our list.

With an ‘over-twelve-years-of-age’ policy and surroundings comprising of rice fields and sweetcorn or tobacco plantations, the resort is satisfyingly tranquil and calm.

However, if you need a bit of activity thrown in the mix for contrast, there are a lot of options to access from The Royal Purnama also.

There are numerous opportunities to explore; simple treks through picturesque plantations, waterfall and canyon visits, market and temple visits, day cruises to offshore islands and even a nearby reef that is world renowned for high-end surf breaks. Being just 16km from Ubud, there is also the Sacred Monkey

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Sanctuary within reach and further afield there are safari parks and art markets too.

Or if health and spirituality is more your thing, Royal Purnama have some excellent healing package deals with yoga, meditations, massages, blessings, wellness consultancies and local health foods. There are even cooking classes, beach horse rides and a gym. Whatever you need, this place has it covered.

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£112 per night

€ 131 • $ 147

Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia

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Australia, Great Barrier Reef, Heron Island

Heron Island One of the seven wonders of the natural world, the Great Barrier Reef is larger than the Great Wall of China.

It is utterly miraculous to behold and unfortunately, it’s dying. This spectacular experience may not be around for too much longer due to global warming, so listen up – you are going to want to visit, and here’s the best place to go. Heron Island is a natural coral cay situated in the middle of the Great Barrier Reef, about 45 miles off the coast of Queensland, Australia. The marine ecosystem surrounding it is packed with life and colour. Very few places on earth have such variety and biodiversity that you can witness first hand. With such

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a wealth of coral and sea life, Heron Island is widely regarded as one of the best diving areas on the planet.

The experience isn’t just below sea level though. The island is a protected sea turtle nesting ground (one of a small number in the world you can witness) and also a breeding and nesting sanctuary for a huge variety of birds. Not to mention the views are to DIE FOR and the water is a beautifully clear blue. Naturally, the island resort owners have set up everything a guest could possibly need or want. Knowledgeable activity guides supervise tours, snorkelling, diving, kayaking, fishing tours, semi-submersible tours, sunset cruises,

Heron Island, Great Barrier Reef, Australia

Sir David Attenborough

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identified whale watching spots, walks, nature presentations and stargazing groups. The island even has a University of Queensland Research Station which you can visit to learn more about the nature and wildlife. Facilities wise, the picturesque Heron Island has some lovely spas, restaurants and bars and even without the activities would be a beautiful spot for a beach holiday.There is a huge amount of very humbling wonders to witness on this tiny island, and it wouldn’t surprise me if you returned a different person to when you left.

I can mention many moments that were unforgettable and revelatory. But the most single revelatory three minutes was the first time I put on scuba gear and dived on a coral reef.

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Sun Chlorella

sunchlorellausa.com

Feed your skin good nutrition

Sun Chlorella promotes radiant skin with its luxurious facial moisturiser. Containing natural ingredients that support cellular health and revitalization, the cream works to authentically improve your skins health and appearance.

Sun Chlorella Cream is free from parabens and artificial preservatives, containing a pure aqua and natural chlorella base to keep skin healthy, youthful and hydrated.

Lightweight for a non-greasy texture and complimented with a gentle rose scent, this sensual cream is an essential for the boudoir. What is Chlorella? Chlorella is a natural green algae containing key nutrients and an abundance of health benefits, therefore used as a source of several vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Studies have proved that Chlorella can also benefit the entire body by helping to lower cholesterol and blood pressure, enhance the immune system,

promote cardiovascular health and help fight chronic diseases.Sun Chlorella have been recognised as a premier provider of chlorella supplements for almost 50 years.

With endless awards focusing on their impact within the healthy food world, this company now stands out in the beauty industry; shaking the market with its miracle moisturiser.

Bringing its proven health benefits to a lightweight facial cream that works for your skin, hair and nails, its no surprise celebrities such as Victoria Beckham and Jennifer Aniston are fans of this triple-threat. Join the skin supplement revolution.

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£53 ₏ 61 • $ 68

London, England

London Bars Shaking up the cocktail scene The American Bar at the Stafford and Bar Three are listed as the places to be for that excellent tipple. Whether you’re after a classic daiquri, or looking to get adventurous, there’s something for everyone at these London bars.

The American Bar at The Stafford has been updated, creating a contemporary space while retaining its historic charm. The interior now includes emerald velvet sofas, antique mirrors and subtly states opulence. The bar menu has also had a shake-up, with 12 new location inspired cocktails – The Moonraker, containing Sipsmith gin, rhubarb liqueur and Champagne, ideal to enjoy with friends as you watch the sun set in the courtyard.

Bartending brother Mac and Noel Venning have launched Bar Three. A bijou space tucked away on Brushfield Street, a joint venture with the owners of Blixen restaurant upstairs.

This candlelit space crates a cosy atmosphere with each cocktail proposing to be simple in presentation but complex in craft. Inspired by its name, the menu is split into three sections – light, medium and full bodied, with the food from Blixen being placed into the same three categories to compliment your drink.

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Chloe Wise combines a passion for fashion, food and contemporary art through the use of leather, painting and urethane in her project – Bread Bags. By mixing oil paint with materials, Chloe Wise has became famous world-wide for a set of sculptures labelled – Bread Bags.

She reinterprets iconic models of prominent brands such as Chanel and Prada in the form of food.

The Canadian-born, New York based creative adds each minuet detail to the pancakes, bagels, sandwiches and toast sculptures. She combines themes of luxury with a surplus of spending in consumerism through the mixture of emblematic products with everyday food. As genuine as they may look, the pieces aren’t made up of real food and cannot be worn as fashion accessories. They are simply art pieces, made to make an impression.

Chloe Wise 12

Milan, Italy

Introducing trends as Milan Fashion Week launches The fashion industry introduces the latest trends for autumn-winter 2019/2020 as Milan Fashion Week begins: featuring over 80 different presentations and 60 fashion shows.

Fashion Week is important more so than ever as a driving force for the industry as external factors such as Brexit and custom duties weigh heavily. Therefore, causing the sector to have its worst turnover increase in the last three years – at only 1%.

The program is full of innovation and creativity, with brands such as MM6 Maison Margiela, Aquazzura and Alanui.

Young Italian designer Marco Rambaldo will make his fashion week debut, as well as Mayo Loizou and Leszek Chmielewsk Marios’s brand, supported by the National Chamber for Itlaian Fashion.

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Buyers and journalists from all over the world will get a chance to experience recently redesigned areas of the beautiful city, starting from the Magazzini Raccordati near the Central station – reopened thanks to Moncler’s contribution.

As well as experiencing the famous, popular fashion district and wellknown downtown locations.

With the biggest brands planning their fashion shows during the first four days, fashion week is said to have an inclusive, ‘liquid’ feel. With the beginning of fashion week set to be the busiest, the entirety of Sunday is owned by Dolce & Gabbana, while Monday’s programe features only two events.

Meaning the majority of the 60 fashion shows and 80 presentations of MFW are set to take place over four and a half days.

The Perfect Plum Bakewell A delicious, simple take on a Bakewell tart, using a mixture of plums, beaten eggs, sugar and ground almonds in a pre-made flan case. The perfect unique treat for when you’re entertaining guests.

2h 15min

Ingredients

Method

• 1 x 21cm all-butter pastry tart

Preheat the oven to 180°C, Fan oven 160°C, Gas Mark 4.

• 2tbsp raspberry jam

Put the prepared pastry tart onto a baking sheet and spoon in the raspberry jam, spreading it evenly across the base.

• 2 eggs, beaten • 40g caster sugar

• 1tsp vanilla extract

Beat together the eggs, sugar, almonds, vanilla extract and lemon zest. Spoon into the tart case and spread it out over the jam, placing the plums on top. Sprinkle with the flaked almonds and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the filling is set and golden.

• 6-8 South African Flavorking plums, halved and pitted

Cool for about 20 minutes, then serve, sprinkled with icing sugar.

• 100g ground almonds

• 20g flaked almonds • Icing sugar, for sprinkling

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France, Cantenac

Château Kirwan chateau-kirwan.com

Beginning to welcome wine amateurs and professionals in 1995, Château Kirwan is one of the Médoc regions wine tour pioneers. Château Kirwan is an award-winning château: in 2008 and 2012 it won the “Best of Tourism” in the categories “Art and Architecture” and “Wine Tourism Offer”.

This beautiful winery offers a variety of luxury experiences and unique activities for each individual – there’s a type of visit for every taste.

Being witness to the French nobility’s art of living prior to the French revolution, the vineyard overlooks the Marguex appellation area; allowing for a breathtaking visual experience. The historic surroundings can also be embraced from the peaceful terrace, where you can enjoy a relaxing drink or indulge in a gourmet meal; prepared upon request by their professional chef. The fermenting room and historic cellars have kept pieces of intricate ancient architecture whilst being recently restored to add a touch of modern design.

Tours & Tastings from

£21 per person

€ 25 • $ 27 Kirwan invites guests to join them in embracing the delights of a venue with the satisfaction of enjoying luxury, top quality food and wine.

Château Kirwan combines traditional wine tasting tours with luxury modern and imaginative experiences, such as their perfume creation workshops; the only place where you can combine your love of wine with perfume. The variety in workshops doesn’t stop there. Take a break from your winery tour, put your chef hat on and join Chef Stéphanie Bottreau in a gourmet experience as you use fresh, local products to create delightful and exciting flavours.

Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply looking for new experiences, there’s something for everyone at this picturesque venue.

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Lizard Island, Australia

Unwind at the Luxurious & Secluded Lizard Island The truly unique Lizard Island offers seclusion and natural privacy that is sure to be cherished. Being the only resort located on a 1,013-hectare National Park, on the Great Barrier Reef and in a busy world of over 7.5 billion people – this resort is designed for just two.

Explore, what will feel like, your own private island with 24 secluded beaches at your oyster.

Embark on challenging hikes to the top of Cook’s Look, peaceful nature walks or personal tours to explore the beautiful island – Alternatively, you can explore the island on a self-guided tour, embracing the beauty at your own peaceful pace.

Extend the tranquility at the Essentia Day Spa where you will leave relaxed, rejuvenated and re-balanced.

Essentia Spa offers a range of private and couple treatments as your senses are taken on a therapeutic journey.

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China, Hong Kong

Adrian Cheng, Developer Extraordinaire, Reworks The Avenue Of The Stars In Hong Kong When visiting the most vibrant city in Asia, it’s a travelers necessity to catch the magical light show that the city displays every night. Now there is no better place to witness the show than the new Avenue of the Stars.

A half-kilometer long pedestrian zone and green space, based along the waterfront, with breathtaking views of the city which has just been reworked as part of the Victoria Dockside development.

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Adrian Cheng Entrepreneur, Adrian Cheng, created the vision of Victoria Dockside which will open later this year as a cultural, public art, residential, concert space and luxury retail.

Whistler, Canada

Beyond The Slopes – Adventures For The Risk Takers Whilst Whistler might be known for its skiing opportunities, there are in fact a whole host of adrenaline pumping activities for every adventurer – even in the summer months. Being just a 90 minute drive from Vancouver, Whistler is easy to incorporate into any British Columbia itinerary.

Be spoilt for choice with a range of fun rafting experiences designed to suit each level, so if you’re just starting out or consider yourself a professional you’ll be sure to enjoy the rivers of Green, Lower Cheakamus, Elaho and Squamush.

Ride from peak to peak in the worlds longest and highest gondola, spanning 2.73 miles over 1,400 feet. Travel from Blackcomb Mountain to Whistler Mountain as you’re surrounded with surreal views.

Embrace the culture as you enjoy some alpine hiking trails and luxury mountain dining.

Mountain biking in Whistler is extremely popular, and it’s clear to see why. Bikers travel all over the world to be challenged and head up the mountain to the famous Bike Park, and it’s no wonder given the beautiful scenery that is on offer. Of course, for those that prefer a more relaxed journey with equally as exquisite views, the 40km stretch of the Valley Trail is on offer. If you’re tired of the physical activity, Whistler has the opportunity to take off the helmet and get to sight seeing. Aside from the spectacular views and nature, Whistler is home to the black bear. Take a jeep with a knowledgeable guide up into the Blackcomb mountains in search of these fantastic animals. To top of the list of exciting and adventurous offerings that can be found in Whistle, you’re able to zip-line your way through the old growth forests; a creative way to ensure you view the breathtaking views from every angle. With various ziplines ranging from 200′ to over 2000′ in length, this fun filled activity is suitable for the whole family.

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United States, California, Santa Monica

Casa Del Mar hotelcasadelmar.com

This luxury 5-star resort is perfect for beach lovers, couples and families seeking a laid-back retreat in an extravagant venue. Embrace sunny Santa Monica as your elegant room over looks the beautiful Pacific surf, enrich your palette at one of their three gourmet restaurants and bars, relax and restore with a treatment at the Sea Wellness Spa and embark in experiences like no other, available right on your doorstep.

Feeling adventurous? Casa Del Mar offers a range of riveting activities such as surf lessons and yoga on the sand. Being known for its glorious beaches, you’ll find a whole host of activities to dive into; or the perfect opportunity to relax pool side and soak up the golden sun.

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£516 per night

€ 597 • $ 665

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Madikwe, South Africa

The Madikwe Game Reserve madikwegamereserve.co.za

Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge is set on a hilltop in the heart of Madikwe Game Reserve.

The 5-star lodge offers the utmost in luxury and hospitality, prepare to be waited on as you relax under the sun beside your private pool, over looking and experiencing the beautiful wildlife.

Explore the incredible diversity of species as you embark on one of the best safaris South Africa has to offer. Among many other wildlife species, the Big 5 can also be found in the reserve. This includes Brown Hyenas, Cheetahs and Aardwolves, known as some of the rarest animals.

This resort is perfect for both couples and families, with their elegantly luxurious honeymoon suites and ‘family friendly camp’, everyone can join in on the most relaxing adventure of a lifetime.

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£793 per night

€ 918 • $ 1,023

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Miso Shiitake Rame Recipe This healthy, low calorie, vegan friendly Vietnamese style noodle soup for two is the perfect midweek meal.

Easily knock this out in 20 minutes and settle in for rich Asian flavours. (vegan).

2h 15min

Ingredients

Method Step 1

Heat the stock and add the sliced ginger, the whole chilli half and the garlic. Simmer gently for 10 minutes.

Scoop out the ginger, chilli and garlic and discard, and whisk in the miso until dissolved.

• Vegetable stock 750ml • Ginger 4cm piece, ½ sliced, ½ shredded • Red chilli 1, ½ left whole, ½ finely

Step 2

chopped

In a separate pan, cook the ramen following pack instructions then drain and rinse under cold water.

• Garlic 1 clove, bashed • White miso paste 2 tbsp

Step 3

• Frozen ramen 200g, (or use 100g of

Heat the vegetable oil in a pan and stir-fry the chopped chilli, mushrooms, spring onion whites, shredded ginger and pak choy for 3 minutes. Add the soy and sesame oil and cook for a minute.

dried egg noodles) • Vegetable oil 1 tbsp • Shiitake mushrooms 125g, sliced

Step 4

• Spring onions 4 shredded, white and

Divide the stir-fried veg and noodles between 2 bowls.

Pour over the boiling stock and finish with a sprinkle of spring onion greens.

green separated • Pak choy 2 heads, shredded • Soy sauce ½ tsp

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Spain, Girona

El Celler De Can Roca cellercanroca.com

The combined efforts of the three Roca brothers have catapulted their restaurant in Girona to stardom, claiming three Michelin Stars and twice ranking as the No. 1 restaurant in the world.

The ethos is to take diners on a world tour and let them lose themselves in the moment. This is achieved by ensuring constant innovation in both cuisine origins and heavy emphasis on scientific research. They have even set up their own research and innovation centre across the road from the restaurant!

The three Roca brothers are each global leaders in their respective fields and choose to close the restaurant during August annually so they can travel. The aim is to broaden their collective culinary experience, drawing inspiration from local cuisine traditions in South America, Turkey, USA, Hong Kong and further afield. This makes their food complex and delicate, incorporating cutting edge techniques and a blend of global taste sensations designed to evoke memories, emotions and the local landscapes of each region of origin. They summarise the style as Contemporary Catalan with global highlights – and it’s glorious.

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£120 per person

€ 140 • $ 156 Vowing never to open another restaurant for fear of absence, the brothers are dedicated to the customer experience and believe engaging personally with the diners is an integral part of hospitality. They have at least two brothers on site for every service.

The building itself is a work of art, with modern glass front, a unique wine cellar with different sensory areas and a triangular dining room build around an inner garden. Simple and beautiful. Well worth a visit, though there can be up to a year long waiting list, so get booking!

I believe chefs have to be in the restaurant, because guests come to our home.

Joan Roca 24

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Menton, France

Mirazur mirazur.fr

The Three Michelin Star awarded culinary masters at Mirazur in Menton, France have got every base covered. Fantastic beach views in the French Riviera and gorgeously designed plates of spectacular, heart-warming Mediterranean food.

Frequently voted in the top 5 restaurants in the world, Mirazur is the creation of daring Argentinian chef, Mauro Colagreco.

The world-renowned chef favours light and local foods, rarely using heavy sauces and often using flowers, herbs, fruit and veg grown in the restaurant’s own garden. Due to the fresh local produce and Colagreco’s never ending stream of new inspirations, the menu is extremely fluid, constantly changing with the seasonal harvests and with the innovations of the chef.

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To me, Michelin stars are a recognition of the work we do and a sign of consistency

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£73 per person

€ 85 • $ 94 The freshness of the local produce makes each plate deliciously flavoursome and the mixture of traditional French, Italian and Argentinian techniques and taste palates are blended to perfection. Visually, the dishes are bursting with contrasts in both colour and texture, building scenic miniature landscapes right on your plate – mouth-watering.

If you’re touring on your jet-set lifestyle through the Riviera, make sure not to pass this unique experience by.

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Iconic Karl Lagerfeld Chanel Designer dies aged 85 Chanel fashion designer, Karl Lagerfeld has died aged 85 in hospital after his secret cancer battle. After serving as the face of the French design house for more than three decades.

Hailed as an extraordinary creative individual who reinvented the brand’s codes and birthing the now statement pieces we know as the Chanel Jacket and suit, the little black dress, the two-tone shoes, the quilted handbags, the precious tweeds and costume jewellery.

CEO of Chanel, Alain Wertheimer said “Thanks to his creative genius, generosity and exceptional intuition, Karl Lagerfeld was ahead of his time, which widely contributed to the House of Chanel’s success throughout the world.”

Paris Fashion Week opened with its Christian Dior show, which payed tribute to Karl and his creativity as each guest was gifted, in French and English, a special note that read: “In homage to the alchemist of elegance and beauty, Karl Lagerfeld”.

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“I’m very much down to

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earth, just not this earth.

Karl Lagerfeld

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Tanzania, Zanzibar

Chuini Zanzibar Beach Lodge newmarkhotels.com

If peace and tranquillity are what you need this summer, look no further.

Stunning ocean views complemented by some of the most spectacular sunsets found on earth – it is almost too easy to lose yourself in this utopian beach resort.

Located on the very edge of the Unguja Island, Chuini Zanzibar Beach Lodge is the most luxurious property to grace Zanzibar’s west coast. In a quiet spot 12km north of Stone Town and with bungalows spread out over a 1.5-hectare area, the lodge allows for excellent privacy.

Palm trees embellish the grounds whilst the seafront bungalows are decorated in a beautifully simple manner with wicker chairs and lampshades to match. With multiple swimming pools, an in-house spa and excellent dining and drinking establishments, this certainly covers all your desires for a relaxing beach holiday.

If you want to explore some local culture and landmarks, you are within 10 miles of the Old Fort built in the early 1700s, the Masingini Forest where you can hike and learn of their conservation efforts, Chapwani Island, Livingstone House and the House of Wonders. So there’s something for everyone!

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£139 per night

€ 160 • $ 179

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London, England

The Mandrake

themandrake.com

are extremely knowledgeable on the city’s most popular attractions and best kept secrets. Most enticing though are the in-house intimate immersion programs. The Spiritual Wellbeing program encourages you to try new experiences such as Lomi Lomi temple bodywork, Cacao Ceremonies, Sonic Enchantment and Crystal Bowl Meditations, all designed to help nourish the soul.

These sensory experiences are inspired by ancient practices and quickly sooth you into a state of deep relaxation and peace by tapping into alpha and theta brainwave rhythms.

The Mandrake is a luxurious boutique hotel at the centre of London’s West End. With only 30 bedrooms, the Mandrake certainly doesn’t pander to a mass market. Everything about the hotel is designed to be an experience and a memory, not merely a pillow to rest your head.

Voted the third best hotel in Europe

by Ahead Awards, with the “best hotel bathroom GQ has ever seen”, this exotic themed gem feeds your need for escapism by transporting your senses outside the often grey and hurried settings of the city.

Everything your eyes land on is a point of curiosity and astonishment.

The entire hotel is conceptualised after the medicinal properties of the Mandrake plant and consists of

carefully designed interior themes which harmonise the classics with the moderns to emphasise comfort while retaining class. Carefully curated artwork by the likes of Dali, Clemente and Burgert are a wonder to behold and subtle soundscapes set an intriguing atmosphere. The cherry on top is the evergreen sanctuary in the centre courtyard.

Jasmine and passion flowers cascade down and line the threestory-high walls. A strange calm comes over you when you relax here, especially with one of the masterfully created ethno-botanical cocktails.

It truly removes you from worry and acts as a city centre tropical excursion. There is more to do than just relax though. Firstly, if you wish to visit the city The Mandrake is perfectly positioned, and the staff

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The Artist in Residence program is designed to encourage interaction with other guests and members of the public under the umbrella of art. Art in the broadest spectrum – tattoo artists, sculptors, painters, musicians, dancers, fashion designers and everything in between. The Mandrake regularly hosts interactive sessions with emerging and established artists and performers to showcase the creative methods and processes behind them. The guests often become an integral part of the art as it is formed live. With its stunning design, artistic ethos and sensory experiences beyond this world, The Mandrake is at the top of the luxury list of London. You’d be missing out if you overlooked it.

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£226 per night

€ 261 • $ 291

Nationwide Whisky Festival 2019 Whisky can be extremely diverse in variety, from a light, sweet Irish like Jameson’s to a smoky and overwhelmingly peaty Scotch such as Laphroaig.

Many countries manufacture whisky, but the originals were the Irish and the Scots. More recently in the history of the ‘water of life’, some fantastic whiskies have been produced in Japan, Canada and USA, amongst other places. If you’re as fascinated by this majestic elixir as we are and want to learn all about it, we’d recommend the Nationwide Whisky Festival 2019.

The traveling selection carry over 100 whiskies for you to sample, and study. Armed with a Glencairn tasting glass and an informative festival

guide, you are free to roam, joining the congregation of enthusiasts, sommeliers, distillers and purveyors.

You can even pay extra for tokens permitting you access to the secret stash of rare and very exclusive whiskies. With the added opportunity to sign up for a masterclass with world renowned whisky experts and taste some rare under-the-counter vintages, this festival is a must-do for any whisky lover.

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£39 for two people

€ 45 • $ 50

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virginexperiencedays.co.uk

Dinner With Cocktail Masterclass What better way to spend a Saturday afternoon than learning the fine art of mixology with world-class experts and indulging on exquisite Spanish and Italian canapés?

A session with the May Fair’s expert cocktail makers teaches you the techniques of the trade so you can master the delicate balance of mixology too. You make three gorgeous cocktails during the session, each paired with a tasty selection of small plates of your choosing made by highly trained chefs.

Take home a certificate, surprise gifts and souvenirs, and also enter a ‘Guess The Ingredient’ competition for the chance to win a bar voucher.

This session will tease your palate into the world of mixed drinks and culinary excellence, taking place in the hotel’s flagship restaurant, the May Fair Kitchen. Dip your toe into a new luxury experience and you may find a whole new personal passion in the science of mixology.

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£180 for two people

€ 208 • $ 232

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Spice Up Your Poached Eggs Whipped feta & beetroot on toast with poached eggs and dukkah (vegetarian).

30min

Ingredients

Method

• feta 150g, crumbled

Step 1

• natural yogurt 4 tbsp

Put the feta, yogurt, lemon juice, a little seasoning and 2 tbsp of cold water into a small food processor and whizz until really smooth.

• lemon ½, juiced

Step 2

• olive oil 1 tbsp • cooked beetroot 250g pack, drained well and cut into wedges • eggs 4 • sourdough 4 slices, toasted

Heat the olive oil in a frying pan, pat the beetroot really well with kitchen paper to dry, then cook in the pan for 2-3 minutes on each side or until lightly caramelised.

Step 3

Crack each egg into a teacup or ramekin, then gently tip into a large pan of simmering lightly salted water and cook for 2 minutes or until the white is just set, then remove with a slotted spoon.

Step 4

• dukkah 2 tbsp, (see notes below) • flat-leaf parsley a handful, chopped

Put a piece of toast onto each plate, spread with some of the whipped feta, spoon over the beetroot wedges, top with a poached egg, then sprinkle with the dukkah and parsley.

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Posh Venison Burgers Whip up some epic burgers in just 30 minutes to impress the family or friends. (Venison is very lean meat so mix in some pork for some added juiciness).

30min

Ingredients

Method

• red onion 1 small

Step 1

• Venison mince 300g • Pork mince 100g

Peel the onion including the first layer, keeping it whole. Grate it on the rough side of a box grater. Squeeze out most of the onion juice and discard then drop the pulp into a bowl.

Step 2

• Worcestershire sauce 1 tsp • Parsley a handful of leaves, chopped • Groundnut oil • Dolcelatte 4 thick slices

Add the venison, pork, Worcestershire sauce and parsley. Season really well then mix together.

Step 3

Form into 4 burgers, flattening them out so that they’re bigger than the buns as they will shrink when cooking. Oil the burgers on both sides and season again, going heavy on the pepper.

Step 4

• Mayonnaise 4 tbsp • English mustard 1 tsp • Watercress 2 handfuls • Brioche-style buns 4, toasted

Heat a large heavy frying pan to hot. Add the burgers and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until cooked through. Add the cheese to the top and cover with a lid or baking sheet to create some steam and melt the cheese. Mix the mayo and mustard and spread over the bottom of the toasted buns. Add some watercress and top with a burger and the bun top.

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England, London

American Bar, The Savoy 130 years of practice in drinks mixing can get you a long way in the hospitality industry. The American Bar in The Savoy, currently voted as The Worlds Best Bar, has earnt its status without question.

Three of the most famous bartenders in the world made their bones at the American Bar – Ada Coleman, Harry Craddock and Peter Dorelli.

Excellence is what these guys do best, and they accept nothing less. The cocktail menu, entitled Every Moment Tells A Story, is inspired by the famed photography of Terry O’Neil which can be seen extensively decorating the walls.

The cocktails in the menu show off just a fraction of the historic masterclass and expertise this establishment built its name on. Countless cocktails have been invented here which went on to global success, most notably the dry martini.

Neil Armstrong enjoyed his first drink back on earth in the American Bar, an ingenious on-thespot invention now known as a Moon Walk made especially for him.

Classically designed and immaculately upheld, this spot is a must-do luxury experience when visiting the capital city.

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Arizona, United States

Widen Your Perspective At The Grand Canyon The Grand Canyon will take your breath away.

With one of the most dramatic landscapes on earth stretching as far as the eye can see before you, there is honestly very little adequate enough to say to one another to describe it.

Big enough to be seen from outer space and with rock formations pre-dating the dinosaurs by a billion years, it is no surprise the Grand Canyon is the most visited national park in the US with more than six million visitors a year. Most of these visitors visit the South Rim as it is less remote and there are significantly more dining and lodging opportunities.

Stunning walking routes, cycle paths, scenic roads, bus rides, plane rides, helicopter rides, boat rides, mule rides, rafting and even a railway can help you explore the Canyon and make the most of the scenery and wildlife. There are tour guides throughout all of these options to educate you on the history of the Canyon and its formation.

The Grand Canyon recently turned 100 years old (since it became a national park) so this year is a landmark opportunity for a visit – one to tell the grandkids.

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Switzerland, Bad Ragaz

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Bad Ragaz, Switzerland

Grand Resort Bad Ragaz resortragaz.ch

As the leading wellbeing and medical health resort in Europe, you can expect nothing but excellence from an experience at the Grand Resort. Nestled in the foothills of the Alps, the views alone are worth a visit.

Nestled in the foothills of the Alps, the views alone are worth a visit.

It’s situated at the base of Pizol Mountain, a few hundred feet from Lake Constance, with the Alps in the distance. But the real incentive is its cutting edge-meets-holistic Wellbeing and Thermal Spa. Its treatments cover everything from detox and stress relief to mobility issues and neuromuscular disorders. (There’s a staff of 70 doctors and specialists onsite.) Its 12 spa suites offer floor-to-ceiling windows, personal saunas, colourtherapy baths and bathwater from nearby thermal springs.

designed and beautifully decorated.

The spa is also home to the world’s f ir s t-Sw a r ov s k i - g l a s s - cove r e d steam room. The ethos is based around bathing traditions spanning hundreds of years.

The healing effect of the thermal water from the Tamina gorge has been recognised for centuries, and the spa spares no luxury in their attempt to provide their guests with peace of mind and wellbeing. from

£432 per 2 guests

The spa is huge, 6,050 sq. meters to be exact, each section classically

€ 490 • $ 545

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Singapore, Parkview Square

Atlas Bar atlasbar.sg

The recently renovated Atlas Bar in Singapore is awe inspiring. It is one of our favourite places, EVER. Just look at it! The first glance in person will stop you dead in your tracks and drop your jaw to about shoulder height.

You have never seen a bar like this – fact.

7,400sq ft of Art Deco styling, finished with marble, velvet, copper and gold. It’s like walking through a portal to the 1920s world of The Great Gatsby. You suddenly feel vastly underdressed and somewhat insignificant, so suit up. The refurbishments before opening were said to be ‘intimidating’, but clearly the investment paid off.

Like most luxury hunters, we love gin. Atlas love gin too.

See that massive, three story high central column? ALL gin. God only knows how they reach it all! They have over 1,100 varieties of gin, the oldest vintage of which dates back to 1910 – one of the world’s largest collections. If only there were a tasting menu…

from

£12 per gin/cocktail

€ 13 • $ 15

The idea is that Atlas becomes known as a centre of excellence for gin. With the staff all fully trained in depth on the spirit, it is a place of encyclopaedic knowledge where you can learn and become a connoisseur.

But the pedigree is not only in gin, there are some extraordinarily rare whiskies and champagnes also, even some shipwreck bottles. The rarest of the collection came with the building, directly from the personal stash of late Hong Kong property mogul, CS Hwang who built the premises.

All of this rich heritage is further sweetened by a delicious culinary menu designed and prepared by chefs of previous employment at the Fat Duck, Alinea and Narisawa. Sitting at 8th on The Worlds 50 Best Bars 2018, without doubt, Atlas Bar is one of a kind.

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Anyone can travel.

Not everyone knows how to explore.

At Cookson Adventures we dare to be different, exploring the unknown to provide our clients with irreplaceable memories. Whether it’s tagging sharks with a scientist, discovering a lost city with an archaeologist or sailing through the Antarctic aboard an explorer yacht, Cookson Adventures build experiences only we can imagine.

COOKSONADVENTURES.COM

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