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AMERICA’S LUXURY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE • SPRING 2008

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CONTENTS:21nov

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Contents We Recommend...

36 Art of Shaving

40 American Footwear

46 Swedish Sleep

37 Spring Neckwear

42 Smoker’s Nightcap

58 Business Hotels

38 Classic Scents

44 Creature Comforts

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CONTENTS:21nov

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Contents People 52 Ken Chenault 54 Any Sacco 56 Jared Kushner 64 Frédéric Fekkai style as culture

80 Andrew Sasson reinventing Vegas living

133 Mead Welles the beat of his own drum

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Contents Opulent Living 32 Tesla green means go

90 Fashion a Summer’s peak

153 Fine Food three meals worthy of a flight

Places 70 Miami Polo not just another day at the beach

96 Sweden a look at the Scandinavia you don’t know

110 Thirty-Six Hours Seattle touching down in the Emerald City

116 NC a lifestyle awaits you

125 Canada choices for everyone

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EDITORS NOTE US5:29nov

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The Editor’s Note Getting off a flight a few weeks ago in England that originated in New York, I noticed something while tracking along through Immigrations. When we divided into the customary lines for passport inspections, there were only eight people in line with native passports, and the rest of the herd was pushing and shoving in my neck of the woods. My initial reaction was to think, “There must have been a ton of Americans on my flight.”

This theory was quickly dispelled when I started to hear German, French, Russian, and even Spanish spoken in multiple conversations all around me. Keep in mind this was a flight from Newark to Bristol, not JFK to London. It tells me a few things.

It is clichéd to speak of the world as a global neighborhood – we are all aware of the interconnectivity of the international business climate. It is a never-ending, ever growing neighborhood. But it made me smile. In this 100Thousand Club we spoke with a native Frenchman who has taken over the salon and salon product business in America one hairstyle at a time.

You are probably familiar with Mr. Fekkai.

We also spent a weekend with an Englishman in Las Vegas, who has reinvented the way the most gluttonous of American cities operates and markets its exclusive nightlife – and soon the luxury hotels. His name is Andrew Sasson, and he had plenty to say.

Mr. Mead Welles, a Chicago native, is the principal and founder of Octagon Holdings, but spends a great majority of his time with his charity that helps children in countries you’ve never heard of who have missing or debilitated limbs.

Each one making their mark in a land they are not native too. Trust me folks, in the world of luxury style, luxury living, and important philanthropy, there are no borders either. We know that better than anyone. You will too.

You’ll also read about meals that are worth gassing up the jet for and a few of our favorite enclaves for business travel. Hopefully your first part of 2008 was a prosperous and enjoyable as the end of 2007. And hopefully we have provided you with the same 100Thousand Club experience as we did throughout last year.

Salutations,

Harlan Davis, Editor-in-Chief

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Contributors• Spring’08

JOSH SAILOR

BAKHITA HASSAN

CHARLES NEWBERRY

Josh Sailor (Vertical Limit, Frette) is a spe-

Bakhita (Carolina, Canada) is not native to

“The culinary scene around the world is a

cial man. After working in production for the

North America, but loves finding out how

marvel. There are such a variety of renowned

better part of his professional career, he

people live luxuriously in some of the most

restaurants with chefs at the peak of their

eventually caved into his passion of photog-

interesting destinations. “As someone from

game, one could travel the world for years just

raphy, and hasn’t looked back since. Keep-

abroad, you don’t traditionally think of

trying to keep up with them,”says Charles

ing a studio in New York City, Josh’s portfolio

North Carolina and Canada as luxurious

Newberry (Meals Worth a Flight, p153).

is as sparkling as his experiences, and he

destinations. One trip to either place will

Charles is a good person to trust on the sub-

provides fabulous shots of people, installa-

quickly change that perception. Especially

ject. He has been traversing the world a good

tions, and of course, beautiful places around

Asheville. I just love it.” Bakhita has writ-

part of the last few years sampling different

the world. He has spent the better part of the

ten and traveled for Architectural Digest and

types of cuisine and taking stringent notes.

last few years as the official photographer for

Travel and Leisure and hopes to soon travel

Among his favorites are the three special

former New York Yankees manager Joe

to Hawaii.

places he profiled, along with Per Se,

Torre’s Safe at Home Foundation.

Olympia, and Le Louis XV.

Rebecca Goozee (Ken Chenault, Amy Sacco, Jared Kushner) has

has always been inspired and interested by events and products with

always been fascinated by people who chose to do more. “All three of

energy. “The Tesla Roadster is such a marvel to me. It is such a unique

these remarkable people has made a mark and broken the traditional

concept that not only can an electric car hold its own against other top

mold. All three are not only incredible for their achievements, but the

performance automobiles, but their goal is to actually make it better.

choices they made in accomplishing them, as well as the impressions

The ride is truly phenomenal.” The same excitement can be heard in

they left on the people they have worked with.” Rebecca has been pro-

her voice when speaking about the Miami World Cup of Polo. “The

filing and studying some of the most accomplished personalities in the

ponies, the people, the beach – I dare you to find a better venue for

world for over thirty years. “The combination of these three can truly

such a glamorous sport. It was one sporting event I didn’t want to end.”

compare in stature to any three I’ve profiled.” Noromichi Inoguchi

Salli would know as well as anyone. She hails from the beaches of

(We Recommend...) is a tremendously skilled still life photographer

South Florida, where there is no shortage of fun to be had. And there

who tries to capture the essence of everything he photographs. It is an

is no group of people more critical of the area than natives themselves.

honor for us to feature his work.

Premier Sponsors

100ThousandClub

Sally Goetsch (Green Means Go, Not Another Day at the Beach),

GOLD SPONSORS

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T H O U S A N D

C L U B

Information Executive/Editorial Chairman/Publisher SPENCER GREEN CEO/Publisher JAMES CRAVEN Editor-in-Chief HARLAN DAVIS Associate Editor BECKY GRAHAM Associate Editor JANA GRUNE Contributing Writers SALLI GOETSCH, BAKHITA HASSAN, RANDY KLUES, LESLIE KNUDSON, CHARLES NEWBERRY Contributing Photographers NORIMICHI INOGUCHI, TIM MOSSFORD, JOSH SAILOR

Design Creative Director ANDREW HOBSON Design Director JAMES WEST Contributing Creative Directors ZOE BRAZIL, MICHAEL HALL, PHILIPPA LAY, CRYSTAL MATHER, SARAH WILMOTT

Advertising, Marketing, and Client Services T: 212.920.8181 Executive Director CAMESIA FEARON Account Executive NICOLE BISCARDI Account Executive MAYA DESHMUKH Account Director CHRIS PAPE Account Director GISELLE MAKLER Finance Director LIN ROWE Director of HR and Personnel OWEN WILSON Production Manager ROBERT SIMMS Production Coordinator DANIELLE PARKINSON Circulation Manager SEAN RICHARDS Subscription Enquiries T: +1 212.920.8181 www.100thousandclub.com General Enquiries info@100thousandclub.com Letters to the Editor letters@100thousandclub.com

Printer Calev Print Media 115 S. Miami Ave., PH2C Miami, FL 33130. T: 305.672.2900

100 Thousand Club (Vol. 2, Issue 5, Q1 2008) is published four times a year by GDS Publishing.

All rights reserved. GDS Publishing, Inc. 33 Whitehall Street, 14th Floor, New York, NY 10004, USA. Legal Information The advertising and articles appearing within this publication reflect the opinions and attitudes of their respective authors and not necessarily those of the publisher or editors. We are not to be held accountable for unsolicited manuscripts, transparencies or photographs. All material within this magazine is Š 2008 100Thousand Club.

T H O U S A N D

C L U B

www.100thousandclub.com

Head Office GDS International Queen Square House, 18-21 Queen Square, Bristol, BS1 4NH, UK. T: +44 117 921 4000. F: +44 117 926 7444. E: info@gdsinternational.com

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100 Thousand Club

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s always, the 100Thousand

car will never need a drop of gasoline.

Elon Musk, Chairman of the Board for

Club takes pride in embracing

The sex appeal of a vehicle like this is a

Tesla has been the primary funding source for

the green movement. With the

major quotient for buyers who have been lining

Tesla Motors since its conception. A product

rapid development of green

up since the car went into production. There is

of the Silicon Valley emergence, Mr. Musk is

real estate, use of private travel, and an ongo-

already a waiting list. It is quite easy to see why.

the founder of PayPal and SpaceX. The same

ing barrage of reminders regarding global

With a price tag of $98,000, the car is not one

type of dynamic thinking and revolutionary

warming, it is a responsibility that falls on

for the masses. Instead, it is a first step in dif-

ideas that applied to those endeavors seem to

everyone’s shoulders to embrace design and

ferentiating eco-friendly from boring. Indeed,

be pushing Tesla forward. Mr. Musk always

functionality that lends itself to the cause. But

it may not be an ideal primary vehicle for those

had a keen interest in electric vehicles, and

green does not have to mean boring. Take a

who are putting on a tremendous amount of

when combined with the passion and insight

look at the Tesla Roadster.

miles each day. It’s able to travel 221 miles on

brought by co-founders Martin Eberhard and

one full charge of the battery, but there is no

Marc Tarpenning, it is not difficult to see why

backup power supply.

the progression of the company hasn’t hit any

The San Carlos, California based Tesla Motor Company has redefined what constitutes an electric car. If you are looking for sleek design, look

No matter, it is still a joy to drive, and a

no further. But if you are looking for Ferrari like

revolutionary vehicle. Hopefully it is only the

It may take a while to get your hands on

performance – again, look no further. A 0-60 in

first indicator that moving away from our de-

one of these speed demons, but once you do,

3.9 seconds guarantees a ride that will have the

pendence on foreign oil doesn’t mean a bor-

you’ll probably never want to venture to the

back of your head pinned to the headrest. The

ing drive, or an bland car.

gasoline pump again.

rocky points.

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We Recommend...

Art of Shaving There are better ways to take care of your skin than lathering on shaving cream with your hands. The Art of Shaving’s Badger Brush will help leave your skin feeling smooth and will look beautiful on your vanity. Available at www.artofshaving.com.

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Spring Neckwear Celebrate the season by hanging up your earth tones and instead opting for the cheer of pastels. Dior’s classic patterns are appropriate for the office, a Hamptons wedding, or a simple evening of vodka and oysters. www.dior.com

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We Recommend...

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Classic Scents While Chanel may lead the runway with couture in Paris, New York, and Milan, they have also been crafting scents timeless scents for quite some time. Both Allure and Egoiste transcend common citrus colognes with different refreshing and masculine characteristics. www.chanel.com

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We Recommend...

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American Footwear The classic American shoe maker Allen Edmonds still crafts each pair of their internationally acclaimed shoes by hand, in a 212 step process. Perfect for any season, their look will garner attention, and their comfort will garner your eternal loyalty. www.allenedmonds.com

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We Recommend...

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Smoker’s Nightcap What better to enjoy with your Johnny Walker Blue than with a fine handrolled cigar from Nat Sherman. Headquartered in Manhattan, Nat Sherman International has been the preferred tobacconist for true cigar connoisseurs since 1930. Their new space on Fifth Avenue also comes complete with the Johnson Club Room, a private smoking lounge that has all the requisite comforts. Take a look at their exquisite cutters and ashtrays as well. www.natsherman.com

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We Recommend...

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Creature Comforts There is no better way to warm up than with the aid of real fur. This Sable throw from Frette feels just as luxurious as it looks. Maybe even more so.

Take a look at some of their incredible linen sets as well. Never underestimate the importance of a restful evening. And the pleasure of an active morning. www.frette.com

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Swedish Sleep The Swedish Hästens company has been making the most impeccable mattresses in the world for a long time. It is a craft that has been passed down for 150 years. Each one is handcrafted out of a variety of materials – horsehair, cotton, flax and wool. The ultimate indulgence is the Vividus, which takes 160 hours to build.

It may cost a pretty penny, but you can’t put a price on perfection. www.hastens.com

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Inspired by Kenneth Chenault

T

The term super-star is often used where it isn’t due. All too often praise is

given to someone as groundbreaking or significant, when in reality they got enormously lucky for a brief period of time, only to fade away so quickly that we forget their contribution the moment they are gone. Truly significant people are those whose success sustains. It is built on a background, and the end result of hard work, a vision, and a few distinguishing characteristics. Kenneth Chenault most certainly qualifies by just about anyone’s measuring stick.

Kenneth Irvine Chenault is the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of

American Express and is the man largely responsible for transforming the company from its lull in the 1990s to the absolute titan it has become today – across a number of industries. He started and worked his way up through the ranks in the enormous card and travel unit, Travel Related Services Co. A reinvention of this long-standing arm of American Express immediately caught the attention of then Chairman and CEO Harvey Golub, who promoted Chenault to President and at the time the newly created position of Chief Operating Officer.

For Chenault, he hasn’t necessarily garnered most of his attention as a “celebrity” CEO through profits and growth – although both of those measuring sticks have consistently climbed throughout his tenure. Rather, it has been Ken Chenault the person. Ask anyone over the years what has made Ken so special, and the answer usually revolves around the dispelling of the notion that nice guys finish last. For those who know him, Ken is the nicest. He also possesses the ability to motivate and bring the best out of people around him without ruling with an iron fist. Indeed, his is extremely motivated and focused, but has a trademark characteristic of never losing his cool.

The third African American CEO of a Fortune 500 company, Chenault was born in Long Island, and attended college at the prestigious liberal arts school Bowdoin in northern Maine. There are many stories that have come out of his time in Bowdoin, many of which may give people an understanding of how he has attained the success he has, and done so in the gentlemanly manner that so often alludes many trying to climb to corporate ladder at all costs.

One story in particular that has been recalled and repeated in the past is Ken’s penchant for debating the great issues of the times with peers at the AfroAmerican Center. At a time when radicalism, especially on liberal college campuses was at its pinnacle, it was Ken who always seemed to never waver from

getting things done without showing an ounce of anger or resentment. He was often chosen to represent students in their negotiations with administrators. He is now chosen to represent American Express. Something tells me there isn’t one group in the world that wouldn’t choose Ken to be their leader.

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Inspired by Amy Sacco

I

It is difficult enough to make a lasting imprint

dated. It is these sorts of connections and at-

on the nightlife scene in a city like New York.

tention paid to detail that separates her as a

It is even more difficult to make that imprint

hostess and owner. She is on-site nearly every

sustain for more than five years in the same

single evening, and makes a genuine effort to

venue. This all in a town where clubs, lounges,

know each of customers – something sorely

restaurants, and bars open and close in a span

lacking in many top post nightspots. When peo-

of weeks. To be hot for a moment in one thing,

ple are unloading large sums of cash to mingle

to remain hot is terribly difficult.

with like-minded people, they want to be treated

This is exactly what Amy Sacco has

done, is doing, and will continue to do. The

in a manner worthy of bar tabs that can reach the tens of thousands.

almost 40-year-old New Jersey native is the

Sacco’s personal story is just as intriguing.

owner of Bungalow 8, one of the most cele-

After moving into Manhattan in 1990 to pursue

brated and exclusive clubs in Manhattan. As

her dream in the hospitality industry, she

of December 2007, however, Ms. Sacco has

began dating the late Gilbert Le Cose, former

gone international, opening up a post in the

owner of internationally acclaimed temple to

West End of London. The question is whether

seafood Le Bernardin. After four years of the

its success repeat the phenomenon that has

relationship, Gilbert had a sudden heart attack

become Bungalow in New York. The answer

and died while running on his treadmill. Any-

lies within Amy.

one who knows Amy has said that since that

As anyone who keeps up with New York’s social scene and pecking order, it is no secret

moment, work has become and continues to be the single most important priority in her life.

that Amy can be mischievous, elitist, and bit

From that moment she quickly began

spry when she wants to. But at the heart of

working at a number of different spots around

what she does, and the heart of her actions, is

the city, and through art community friend

playing ultimate hostess. And there is no one

Yvonne Force, managed to raise enough money

in the business, and perhaps in the New York

to open up a bar called Lot 61 in West Chelsea.

City’s hospitality industry – and now London’s

From there the story just steam rolled. Bunga-

– who does it better.

low 8 appeared in New York, has flourished,

She has done one of the most difficult things

Amy has put herself in the heart of the New

to do in the industry, especially when trying to

York City elite nightlife, and has now ex-

maintain an exclusive clientele and sterling rep-

panded across the pond. She shows no signs of

utation for a club. She has made herself an

slowing down, and no indication of compro-

equal to the multitude of stars and society types

mising the main tenets that have made her so

that frequent her establishments, while at the

successful. Not bad for a kid who was one of

same time catering to every need they could

eight children from Jersey. One could say that

possibly have. Need a private jet arranged?

Bungalow 8 will maybe one day close its doors,

Consider it done. Fancy a helicopter for an im-

but its name has already left a permanent im-

promptu trip to the Borgota? Easily accommo-

pression on one, and soon to be two cities.

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Inspired by Jared Kushner

T

To be young and rich used to be an enormous priv-

curiosity towards culture in its finest form. The

ilege. But in a world where there are more billion-

weekly paper is just one element of an ambitious

aires in Russia than there are in Hollywood, this

drive that Kushner is in a way defined by. The

demographic has become as prevalent as the com-

frenzy surrounding his media purchase has been in-

mon unemployed college grad. So when one of them

tense. There is a pedigree of business that has been

does something surprising – truly surprising- it

instilled in him that is relentless. Shortly after pur-

should make us all pause and admire. There is

chasing the Observer, he was asked if he thought he

nothing more refreshing than someone who harkens

worked too much. Kushner responded by talking

back onto the pleasures of generations before him

about his major sleeping problems. That he’d rather

(or her) and wants to do something with their for-

be up thinking.

tune that falls beyond the boundaries of opening a nightclub, hotel, or developing a fragrance.

It wasn’t too long ago – even though most of us

paper was losing $2 million a year. But for some

are too young to recollect – that one of the most

people, the challenge and cultural relevance out-

glamorous and prestigious things to do with one’s

weigh the appeal of quick money with little self-

money was to publish a newspaper. In an era when

gratification of achievement. Not that Kushner – a

people not only get their news from sites like

Harvard alum who started a real estate business

www.wsj.com, but also make their daily trades over

when he was a sophomore – doesn’t relish turning

the internet, believe it or not, newspapers are still

a profit. As he has said, it’s not real estate, but in the

available in their finger and pants staining black

New York City media market, “the Observer is a

and white cheap ink form. Jared Kushner, son of

great piece of real estate.”

New Jersey real estate tycoon mogul Mr. Kushner, realizes this.

56

Thinking is something he’ll need to do, because at the time of the purchase – for $10 million, the

Of course there are a tumult of other things that come along with taking on such a daunting endeavor

He is a charming young man of 26 who while

at such a young age. And being handsome to boot.

juggling law school and continuing to manage his

The rumors started flying at the end of last year about

family’s real estate empire has also purchased the

his relationship with Ivanka Trump. Kushner has

New York Observer. The Observer is an interesting

even employed PR guru to the stars Howard Ruben-

beast. It’s a paper that is at once elitist, yet still very

stein. With the press beating down the door about his

approachable. For a long time seen as an Upper

private life, it’s enough to give almost anyone heart-

East Side socialite’s manual to real estate, books,

burn. But then again, how many people can handle

happenings, and gatherings, Kushner is attempting

law school, real estate, and running a newspaper at

to bring the paper forward in relevance where it is

the same time? At 26 years old? Bring on the

once again read by tastemakers, and those with a

tabloids. After all, he owns one of them.

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We Recommend...

Lavish Urban Retreats

58

e all travel for business a bit

W

Mandarin Oriental D.C.

more than we would like. So

So often a trip to our nation’s capital is one of an

often it feels as though we are off

“in-and-out” mentality. Surely it is a beautiful city

to Hong Kong before we have

with pleasures and hidden gems that span beyond

even had a chance to take our toiletries out of our

the obvious. A trip in the Spring for the cherry blos-

suitcase from the trip to London. There are no signs

soms is always a treat, but usually the majority of

of this type of travel slowing down for many of us –

visits tend to be of the one or two night variety, with

the world is increasingly interconnected, and more

a hectic schedule. Opened in 2004, the Mandarin

and more often it’s necessary to be at a client dinner

Oriental tucked away in the South West – away from

in San Francisco on a moment’s notice, or to meet

the hordes of fanny-packed tourists – provides such

with shareholders in Mexico City. This type of travel

an oasis of calm in a place that is usually anything

has the potential to be strenuous. When popping into

but. When we are coming and going, and may not

town for only a few nights, there are certain comforts

even leave the hotel for dinner, we seek a property

and qualities of a hotel that make a stay a bit more

that provides everything at our finger tips and does

restful, and bit less hectic - more like home. There

so in a way that a one night stay is as comfortable as

are an array of fabulous properties littered around

settling in for a week. We want a property that

the world, specifically in the cities where we do most

guides us along, taking the thinking and planning

of our business globetrotting. Part of our job at the

out of our precious and spare down time.

100Thousand Club is to keep abreast of which prop-

The Chinese and Thai décor lend themselves to

erties tend to cater to our members in the manner

just about every aspect of the hotel, and the sooth-

most likened to please. We do quite a bit of traveling

ing ability of this trademark are somehow height-

ourselves. Here we have highlighted four outstanding

ened at this property. From the artwork to the

hotels that for one reason or another have had lasting

lampshades, a sense of ease is pervasive. The

impressions. Not surprisingly, two of them are Man-

nearly 400 rooms are spacious and technologically

darin Oriental hotels, each in a city that represents

at the pinnacle of almost any property we’ve stayed.

its country, one a smaller property among the hills of

After a long day of meetings, the same sense of non-

San Francisco, and the fourth a wonderfully pleas-

harried soothing service can be found in just about

ant surprise in the often-tumultuous area known as

any of the hotel’s features you choose to enjoy.

Hollywood. Each for different reasons, we highly sug-

Leave your room and head down for an evening

gest a stay.

treatment at the spa, where you can customize your

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own program, or opt for the gloriously relaxing

up to a week, there are different things that

mer 1889 gentlemen’s club remade, and the

deep tissue massage and hot rocks. It is all a

we like to look for in a property. We also like

structure still lends itself to the memory of

prelude to dinner at CityZen, perhaps the most

to stay in a hotel that embodies some of the

its former past. Unlike a good many of the

forward thinking, while still traditionally ele-

best characteristics of the city. Location is

other hotels we profile for any number of rea-

gant and luxurious restaurant in the District.

also a quintessential element. And there are

sons, this one in particular doesn’t receive

Watch the wall of flames while sipping a pre-

few if any locations in London, and perhaps

its high marks for a singularly exceptional

dinner cocktail, before settling into a leather

Europe, more appealing than Hyde Park.

restaurant, or a truly unique service not

seat for a tasting menu that is probably a bit

Again Mandarin wins our crown here for a

found anywhere else. Indeed, these things do

different – yet just as savory as any you have

business visit, but for different reasons than

exist at the hotel, but it is the effortlessness

ever had.

its sibling across the pond.

with which everything is executed that makes

All of this, in an urban hotel, in a one

As you can see, the stately exterior of the

night’s stay. Without leaving the premises. It is

hotel embodies everything we love about

the perfect recipe to take the stress out of a

London, and just the façade alone can make

Two things about this property stand out,

normally unsettling 24-hour turnaround.

the visitor feel like a resident upon initial

however, and are to be enjoyed whenever

gaze. But it is the overall attitude of the hotel

possible. The first is the spa, which seems to

that we love, and what makes us feel at home

be a common theme with Mandarin Oriental

and accommodated.

hotels around the world. This one in particu-

Mandarin Oriental London A trip to London, hopefully, unlike D.C., is usually a lengthier one. When traveling for

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Start with the hotel’s history. It is a for-

it a terrific spot when spending a week or so for business.

lar has a facility that must certainly be at the

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top of any list when it comes to comfort and beauty. The second feature is the relaxation room, a heat and water oasis that can be reserved privately. It is the ultimate place to recharge mind, body, and spirit, and make sure you are on point and sharp day after day.

Hotel Vitale San Francisco is a fabulous city by any standard. It is the type of place that when visiting for business, we try to limit how much time we actually spend conducting business. Sometimes the best choice of business hotel is not someplace over the top, but rather a place that helps facilitate enjoying everything the city has to offer. Enter Hotel Vitale. Its close proximity to the Financial District makes it ideal for most business travelers. Its laid back, spa-like ambiance makes it ideal for those looking to come back to a tranquil environment after a day of board meetings.

Hotel Vitale is the sort of place that smells good, and you might find fresh herbs in the hallways. There are rooftop soaking tubs, and glorious views of the Golden Gate Bridge. There is a penthouse yoga studio.

This may all seem like an elaborate plan to keep you within the doors of the waterfront property. And indeed, they are extremely enjoyable. However, from our experience, they facilitate an enjoyment of the city that combines the main prudent purpose of the trip with one that also makes it feel like a vacation.

Stroll the city’s beautiful streets in the evening, or for foodies, there is the wonderful Ferry Building nearby. You needn’t be in a hurry, because upon your return to Vitale, everything will be waiting for you just the way it was when you left in the morning. Take advantage of this urban resort’s understated details. Or don’t. But it’s nice to know that you have the option.

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Sofitel Los Angeles LA is an interesting animal for those who don’t live within the sprawling “city’s” limits. For one, a car, or at the very least the use of one, is a necessity. We say rent, and make it a beautiful vehicle, without a top, so as an added bonus you can work on developing that nice tan everyone in LA seems to be permanently wearing. After you pick up your chariot, there is no better place to drive up to and hand your keys to a valet than the newly redone Sofitel Los Angeles.

LA is a glamorous town. Even when flying in for work, there is a certain level of expectation as to what will constitute a good trip – outside of the boardroom. Situated in West Hollywood, not far from Beverly Hills, this sleek, elegant property offers a fabulous home base. After a staggeringly beautiful renovation, a stay now finds visitors in technologically advanced rooms featuring feather beds and luxurious linens.

Another bonus are the glorious views of the Hollywood Hills from many of the rooms.

LA, unlike many other business destinations, does not provide easy access to the necessities. Along the same lines as needing a vehicle, it isn’t always possible to stroll out the front door and walk down the street to shop, eat, or play. The legendary French service at the Sofitel makes this quandary obsolete. Upon our visit, the staff could not have been more cordial and accommodating if they tried, and every need was met, usually beyond expectations. Needing a vehicle one morning, a limo was requested and delivered. The following morning, a phone call was made to our room a half hour prior to the same time the previous day asking if we needed it again. This type of service must not go overlooked.

There were certainly a number of business travelers inhabiting the property over the four days we were there, and there is no shortage of amenities to accommodate. Kerry Symon’s new restaurant, and Randy Gerber’s LA version of the Stone Rose Lounge provide ample space and atmosphere for business breakfasts and lunches, and thankfully reincarnate in the evening to the typical Hollywood scene that makes business trips to LA tolerable. It seems as though Sofitel thought of everything when remaking this property, and providing the city with something it desperately needed. A place to stay for a few days of business without the hassle of the Chateau Marmont, and without the unnecessary indulgences – for business of course – of jewels like Peninsula and Raffles L’Ermitage.

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Culture of Fekkai

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W

hen I walked into the Frédéric Fekkai salon in Manhattan’s Soho neighborhood, there were a few things I noticed. The first was the smell. It wasn’t the smell that I noticed, but the lack thereof. I had never had my hair styled or re-

ceived any other treatments in one of his posh enclaves of beauty, but, I had been to equally recognized and expensive salons. Even the most glamorous and renowned always seemed to have the perfume of hair products and the remnants of warm blow dryer air still lingering around.

Not the case here. The second thing I noticed – and Frédéric made certain that I took notice of this later on – there was not a single hair on the floor. As the saying goes, first impressions are everything, and even if I had walked out of there a few hours later with my hair looking like Michael Douglas’s in Wall Street, I think I would have still been satisfied. How’s that for first impressions?

Frédéric Fekkai is a story that many know. He arrived in New York from his homeland in the south of France at the age of 25, and quickly built a reputation for himself among the community of socialites and celebrities for whom beauty is a daily ritual. His clean modern cuts and exceptional sense of style elevated him to the stature of celebrity stylist.

Today? Today Frédéric Fekkai is a brand – one that encompasses eight salons, with a couple more on the way. Each is meticulously located in neighborhoods, cities, and areas where they can take advantage of the like-minded people that frequent them. From Soho to the Upper East Side, from Melrose Place to Beverly Hills, each of his trademark locations maintains the same quality standards and operates with the same efficiency and principles. Fekkai is also a brand whose beauty and hair products have achieved cult status with both men and women around the world.

So here I was, embarking on my first Fekkai experience, thinking I was going to be in the hands of geniuses who would think silly of my desire to investigate what sets them apart from the hosts of other high-end salons, and what makes Frédéric such a more appealing person and intriguing man than many others in the same position. One of the things I did in the weeks leading up to our meeting was ask other people I came in contact with, people who I thought might know Frédéric, what they thought of him. Overwhelmingly, the sorts of answers I got – from people who really know him – where of the likes of, “Frédéric is the best,” or “You’re going to love him.” I even got one “Frédéric is the man” (which came from our good friend Mr. Andrew Sasson who you’ll read about in a bit.)

Skeptical by nature, I was pleasantly surprised to find out that these remarks were right on the money. Not only that, but they could just have

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easily been applied to every single person I

It was now time to talk with Frédéric. There were a plethora of

encountered who worked in the salon. I was

questions to ask. For one, his high-style salons and products have

scheduled to have my hair done by the salon’s

seemed to take on an even greater stature and importance in the

Creative Director, Fabrice Gili, followed by a

worlds of lifestyle, hospitality, and the luxury market. Secondly, his

manicure, and then have a nice chat with

brand had started to transcend what a beauty and salon brand should.

Frédéric. Getting a haircut at Fekkai is a bit

Fekkai in a way was beginning to be associated with a lifestyle. And

more complicated than one might think. First

lastly, from the perspective of a man, in a culture where men are start-

a quick consultation with Frabrice, followed

ing to be much more likely to spend time, money, and energy groom-

by a wash and scalp massage in a chair

ing and taking care of not only their hair, but also body and skin,

fronted by a wall that had three flat screen tel-

where does he see all this going, and why should we do it?

evisions playing classic movies (Breakfast at

The alliterated French name, the perfectly shaped hair, and the

Tiffany’s was on the tube). After that the cut

million-dollar smile – I was expecting a bastion of style, maybe even

takes place, followed by another wash, and ul-

in a bit of an intimidating way, to walk through the door. That is not

timately the final styling. During the cut I ac-

at all what I got. Instead it was a man who didn’t at all look like a

tually had my manicure, and by the time we

model. Dressed well, and certainly carrying himself with a confi-

were finished, I forgot that I had been battling

dence and grace as should anyone in the position Frédéric is in, he

a terrible cold and I felt like a million bucks.

came up the stairs into his own salon, looking as friendly and as coy

It started to dawn on me why people who fre-

as I probably had when I ascended the West Broadway entrance.

quent Fekkai salons swear by them, and why

He’s not a model, but certainly a very handsome man. The most in-

those who know Frédéric are loyal to him.

teresting thing I noticed, however, was that he was not one of the

Everyone knows that your hair never looks as

picturesque actors or actresses that are so dedicated to his services

good as it does when you walk out of a salon,

and products. And it was at that exact moment that I realized why he

but I was still holding out hope.

was so good.

Fekkai’s passion is translated through his work and words.

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How can you possibly understand the psychology, needs, and wants

I understood this and was trying to place how

of people to take care of themselves, look as good as possible, and the

my haircut was an end result of an experience.

importance and confidence it gives them in their everyday lives if you are

This is when he pointed out to me to take note of

being done up for two hours each night before you go to an event? Or if

there being no hair on the floor of the entire place.

you are one of the lucky few who is naturally gorgeous. Especially for

What I learned is that Frédéric doesn’t view his

men. The fact that Frédéric is not in either of the two above-mentioned

salon as simply a place to come in, sit down, and

groups is probably the reason that his skill at his craft has elevated his

walk out looking beautiful. The people who are

business and ideas and theories to level where he is anticipating people’s

frequent clients, and especially men – for whom

needs before they are aware of them.

this is still much newer than it is for women –

“Frédéric Fekkai is part of a culture,” he told me. “It’s about a

look at it as a part of culture as well.

style and an awareness and knowledge. It isn’t simply about just

“The sleek design in here is supposed to

coming in and having your hair styled. That is end result of what we

reflect a sophisticated workshop. And if you

are about.”

look around, you will see that everything going on reflects the Fekkai brand. Consistency is very important,” he said.

Obviously in the last ten years we have been experiencing the metro-sexual generation. It’s generally viewed as men who have taken it upon themselves to embrace the same beauty and care rituals as women have done. It has been an interesting thing to watch, because many of them also dressed in a way that reflected their metro-sexuality.

Frédéric has an interesting take on the phenomenon. “I think we have moved past the idea of the metro-sexual, especially here. As I said, it is part of a culture. It isn’t just about the hair or the nails. It is an experience, and an expectation. Just as fashion is something personal, so is this. Fekkai is part of a culture of

In April of this year, yet another Frédéric Fekkai salon will open up, this time only a short drive north of New York City in the beautiful town of Greenwich, Connecticut. The com-

people who want to not only dress well, and look good, but feel good.”

With new Fekkai salons opening, and

plete range of Fekkai hair and body products will be available, as will haircut, haircolor,

more planning on popping up soon, it is worthy

manicure, and pedicure. The space is planned to be 2,100 square feet. It is a great loca-

to take note that they are not all in places

tion for a new salon, as there are many people who travel from the Greenwich area into

where one might expect. This just goes to show

New York for their services. Says Frédéric “After September 11th, many people who were

that Frédéric is correct in his assessment of

living in the city and using our salons decided to move out to more spacious and quiet

moving past the metro-sexual phase, and at-

areas. Greenwich is one of those places. This will be a nice thing for them.” The architect designing the space is S. Russell Groves, who designed the award winning Frédéric Fekkai Salon at Henri Bendel in Manhattan. Russell is renowned throughout the design industry,

tracting stylish men who incorporate the experience into their lifestyle. These people are not only in New York, Los Angeles, and Miami.

The Dallas salon is a perfect example of this.

and was recently commissioned by Architectural Digest to design a VIP lounge for Mer-

“We want to be places that are relevant, places

cedes-Benz at New York 2008 Spring Fashion Week.

where men and women have an awareness and a want. People like to be pampered.”

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Speaking specifically about men, there is obviously an emphasis on

“There are too many other good methods to

looking younger, with the effects of graying hair and balding hurting a lot

stay looking good. It’s not about looking

of men. I asked Frédéric about this, and about what it means from a con-

young. It’s about looking stylish, and looking

fidence perspective. How should men combat this?

like you care.”

“I believe there is an element with men where they don’t feel

As a young person with a few premature

younger by just getting a nice hair style. Men get more treatments than

grays, this is definitely something I will stick in

women. It is feeling like you have been refreshed- taking care of your-

my back pocket. Hopefully the problem won’t

self,” he continued. “You see a lot of men walking down the street with

progress any further. But with more salons in

some sort of gel in their hair, which means that more and more people

the works – including the potential for a Las

are starting to care and take notice.”

Vegas post – Fekkai doesn’t show any signs of

A lot of young men are certainly using gel and other products, but I

slowing down. So hopefully wherever you are

was more curious about the middle-aged successful man who is going gray.

in the world, a bit of pampering and a bit of a

“Never use color products to mask the graying of hair,” he advised.

style culture are at your fingertips.

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Not Just Another Day at the Beach

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Every April, international polo teams, featuring some of the most beautiful ponies and best athletes in the world, descend upon Miami Beach for an athletic and social event not to be missed.

M

iami is always filled with

hosted by a plethora of luxury brands – from

beautiful women, fast cars,

Maybach and Lamborghini to Quintessentially

stunning weather, and the

and Blue Star Jets. These see and be seen

opportunity to take in the sun

events tend to overflow into some of the best

on some of the most beautiful beaches in the

clubs and lounges throughout the night into the

US. On April 27th and 28th of this year, how-

early morning. Don’t be surprised if you are

ever, a trip down to Miami is not just another

drinking champagne with one of the players at

day at the beach. Miami Beach will once

3 a.m. and then watching him compete the

again be the host to the international Polo

next morning as you nurse a hangover with a

scene as players from Argentina, Brazil, Mex-

bellini in the VIP area. It is why he is a world-

ico, USA, Switzerland, Canada and Germany,

class athlete and you are not.

as well as 80 Argentine Polo ponies will par-

Bruce Orosz, President and owner of ACT

ticipate in this three day event. The games

Productions, puts on the event annually, and

will take place on the famous beaches of

makes sure that there is plenty of glitz and

Miami that we speak about, offering breath-

glamour throughout the entire event. Bruce has

taking scenery to compliment some of the

produced Orange Bowl half time shows, both of

world’s finest Polo.

Bill Clinton’s inaugurations, and fashion shows

It is a social event as well as a sporting

that bring out the top of the industry elite. Give

event, and with eight international teams par-

a man like that the ingredients of surf, blue

ticipating in the tournament it now proudly

skies, white sand, beautiful women, polo

takes the title as the world’s largest and most

ponies, and exotic sports cars, and it is an ob-

prestigious Polo Tournament on the Beach. On

vious success.

the sands stretching beneath the wonderful

The Miami Beach World Cup of Polo is an

Setai oceanfront resort, some of the most influ-

event not to be missed, and should be put on

ential athletes, tastemakers, financiers, and

the calendar for a refreshing and luxurious

fashion and luxury industry executives take in

jaunt down to South Florida before the sum-

the sights, sounds, and glory of polo.

mer heat wave begins. Take a look at some of

The fun continues on, as there are nightly private dinners and cocktail parties for VIPs

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these fabulous images from the tournament’s last few years.

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Even in the sand the ponies display great speed and agility.

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Even in an event for show, the competition is passionate.

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The festivities have an international appeal, and extend beyond the playing “beach.�

Those not lucky enough to possess VIP tickets still swarm to the beautiful sights.

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As with any competition, a winner must be crowned.

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Vegas Visionary

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here are several landmarks on the Las Vegas

without being in Vegas, but still being in the

strip. From the Strarosphere’s perch in the sky at

dead center of Vegas. Even the other most am-

the north end to the grand green glow of the MGM

bitious properties that have opened in the last

Grand, certain images become hallmarks of Sin

decade – from the MGM Mirage’s Bellagio, to

City’s skyline. Another constant over the last cou-

Steve Wynn’s namesake – haven’t succeeded

ple decades has been the continuous stream of

in attracting a demographic that gets exactly

cranes, wrecking balls, and trucks. The site of

what they want when they want it. It is all too

new construction on the Las Vegas strip has in many ways signified the

often that when asking a friend or colleague

city’s transition from a destination for a weekend of hijinks and indul-

where they stayed on their last trip to Vegas,

gence for anyone recently cashed up, to a haven for those who truly

the answer is “We like the ________, because

madly deeply enjoy the finer things in life.

although it is _______, they still have ____.”

The most recent amalgamation of cranes, hardhats, and concrete that

It may be unfair to compare large-scale

can be spotted from nearly anywhere on the strip is MGM Mirage’s City

urban resorts to a smaller property that in ad-

Center. It isn’t very often that a project actually changes the landscape

dition to rooms will house the most tasteful, el-

of what a city offers – especially a city so confident in its original appeal

egant, and sumptuous residences the Strip has

as Las Vegas – but City Center may do just that. A mix of five different

to offer, but this will be the first property that

buildings that function as condominium, hotel, or both, it is almost a cir-

will elicit a different answer to the question. It

cular strip within the strip.

will be “We like the Harmon, because it has

The most interesting and luxurious component must be the Harmon

everything we could ever want, and nothing we

Hotel and Residences. Fronting City Center’s Strip real estate, this tower

don’t.” So who is the brainchild behind such a

is something the desert has never before seen. There is no casino. There

project?

are no $500 per round golf courses. And God forbid you ever see some-

Meet Andrew Sasson, co-owner and

one walking around with a plastic monstrosity filled with a smurf-blue

founder of the Las Vegas based Light Group –

concoction of rum and sugar. There is only luxury – tasteful, understated,

if you already haven’t. If you frequent Vegas –

with a prime focus on service and amenities that make the recluse not

as many of us at the 100Thousand Club do –

much different than an exclusive enclave in any other city. It is Vegas

chances are you have spent a night either

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drinking champagne and participating in sophisticated revelry in one of

ing bro.” That was the reply. With a hint of a

his nightclubs, or digging into a near perfectly cooked steak at one of his

smile, and a refreshing sigh as he settled into

restaurants (we particularly love the bone-in “Brooklyn style” filet

a chair next to me and was able to relax for

mignon at Stack in the Mirage).

what was probably the first moment since he

Sasson has left an imprint on Vegas in a relatively short period of

Such is the essence of Andrew. He is un-

is right now. I spent a couple days with Andrew in Vegas, talking about

apologetic about his methods – there have

his new project – his biggest and most important yet – as well as his path

been a decent amount of media accounts,

to America, and the steps in his successful climb.

many which proved overblown, of him blowing

“Basically I saw the movie Porky’s, and that’s what I thought it would

his top here or there. The bottom line is, he

be like when I got to America,” Sasson told me over lunch in the Bella-

gets things done in a way that they hadn’t been

gio’s Sensi. A statement such as this could easily be interpreted as a

done in this town (Vegas) before, and the suc-

sound bite – a calculated line that makes good press. When Sasson says

cess cannot be questioned.

it though, you can here the earnestness. He is a man who is casting a

His path is a bit long, and a bit confusing.

shadow is this town, but doing it in a different way than most of the suits

In a nutshell, a teenager living with his mother

who run these mega casino empires from their ivory tower offices.

in England was making money working in the

Andrew had been on the construction site just a bit earlier that morn-

bottom rung of food service. Cash in the pocket

ing, and then had to run for a haircut before meeting me for lunch. He

of an extremely independent fun-loving

was wearing jeans, boots, and a grey sweatshirt that I would have guessed

teenager spelled trouble. Andrew wanted to

were on the construction site even if I had not known.

move and work for Dad, who was in the hospi-

“Sorry about what I look like,” he said. “It was a busy morning,” he

82

woke up.

time. The English born impresario took a most unlikely path to where he

tality industry.

continued in his faded English accent. I told him it seemed as though

“I thought it would be a cushy job, work-

every moment had been busy for him lately. “Just trying to make a liv-

ing for my father, being in a nice area. The first

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night I got there, he took me back into the kitchen, and said clean it up.

through his extremely popular Light clubs in

That’s all you’re qualified to do. You worked at a McDonald’s.”

New York City and the Hamptons, Andrew ar-

This obviously didn’t sit well, and didn’t last too long, and before

rived in Las Vegas with the opportunity to

you knew it, Andrew was on a plane to Florida with images of Porky’s in

pitch some of the heaviest hitters in the town’s

his mind, and college in his plans. Things don’t always turn out the way

history. Steve Wynn, someone Andrew looks

they are supposed to.

up to and considers a friend, among them.

Andrew beckoned the waiter over and ordered a steamed lobster,

“All these beautiful hotels and casinos,

speak. The amount of interesting and funny stories than took him from

but there was no where for me to hang out.

exiting the plane in Florida for the first time to touching down in Las

Where do people like me go? In New York it

Vegas for the first time are numerous and without a dull moment. Some

worked, to give people a nice place, to be

of them are pretty well documented. This is not as important to me. What

treated well, not to be around the element they

is important to me is how someone so quickly has changed the way

don’t want to be around, and to really focus on

nightlife is done in Las Vegas, a town that for the longest time market-

service. It had almost been assumed that in

ing itself on the same laurels, albeit for the one idiotic stretch not too long

Vegas people just wanted to come and drink

ago that touted itself as a family destination.

and gamble, but there are always people who

“When I got out here, all you did was the same thing every single night. You’d gamble, go to a bar and get drunk, then go to a strip club.

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What was it that Andrew saw?

and asked for it to be chopped up for us to snack on as we continued to

want to put on something nice and go out. But not in an old fashioned way.”

It was awful. I said to myself, someone can make a lot of money here.”

We moved on to a rib-eye steak and a

Through various connections and attention that was garnered

piece of sea bass glazed in miso and started

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tels, and we were given the opportunity to put together these great venues, right off the casinos in many cases.”

That was all it really took. Prove yourself once, and get a second opportunity. Prove yourself twice, and the opportunities start to seem endless. “I remember when I wanted to open FIX in that space off the casino. They (MGM Mirage), were like, ‘You don’t know anything about running a restaurant.’ But I’m looking around, and these other places aren’t catering and offering the type of experience that people want. For people like you and me.

A dinner at Guy Savoy? Of course the food is incredible, but for a lot of people looking to have a great, fun, lively experience, that sounds awful. We took what we had been doing well, designed it in a way that was appealing for a restaurant, and presented it, and that was FIX.” It all sounds so simple. But it isn’t. To sit with Andrew, you can see his mind is always working. Even when enjoying a lunch in Sensi, I could see he was having a conversation with

talking about getting that first shot, making that first impression. It was Light in the Bellagio, and was put together with Managing Partner of the Light Group, Andy Masi, a Las Vegas veteran in his own right. Light was everything Las Vegas nightlife wasn’t. It was exclusive. It was beautiful.

It was filled with beautiful people. It set the standard and became a world-renowned playground for those privileged enough to gain entry.

Things spiraled from there.

“We did very well with Light here in Las Vegas, and from that point

“When I told them I wanted to do the hotel, it was another, ‘show me what you have in mind, prove you can do it’ moment”

on, the opportunities were going to come,” Andrew tells me as we were finishing our lunch. They started working in conjunction with MGM Mi-

me, analyzing the service and space in the

rage, the largest group in Las Vegas. In the following years, the Light

restaurant (which he doesn’t own or operate),

Group would duplicate their efforts at Light with Caramel Bar and

and going through his day’s agenda in his head

Lounge and FIX Restaurant and Bar in the Bellagio, Mist Bar and

– all at the same time. It is this type of knowl-

Lounge at Treasure Island, and JET Nightclub and STACK Restaurant

edge, confidence, and passion that are the rea-

and Bar at the Mirage. New projects now include Bare Pool Lounge at the

son people took the initial chances on him.

Mirage, Diablo Cantina at the Monte Carlo, and the newly opened Bank

Then following it up with delivery, which he

Nightclub at the Bellagio.

has certainly done.

“Getting in and forming the relationship with MGM Mirage was

Next up was City Center. We walked the

huge,” Andrew continued. “Most of the premier spaces are in their ho-

length of the Bellagio’s casino, Andrew stop-

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ping every once in a while to say hello to a familiar face. “When I told

bellman say ‘hello Mr. Sasson’ every time I

them I wanted to do the hotel, it was another, ‘show me what you have in

enter, and ask if there is anything I want. Chic

mind, prove you can do it’ moment.”

and cool and trendy are just words, but real

We drove over to the sales building for City Center – a marvel in its

comfortable luxury, without rooftop clubs and

own right, with model condos of every project in the whole complex

hordes of drunk people in the lobby, are some-

under the roof of one beautiful building.

thing different.”

“I wanted to design The Harmon as a place I would want to stay; a

We toured a sample condominium from

place that people like you and me would want to stay. I like to have a

The Harmon, and when laying my eyes on the décor and layout for the first time, I could see

The interior of Sasson’s new The Bank club inside The Bellagio, which features European-style bottle-service.

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the embodiment of everything we had been talking about, the end goal of a long journey

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that started as a doorman at a Miami nightclub. Sitting down in a con-

channels in Miami and NY. Third was getting

ference room we chatted a bit more. This was in no way the end goal. It

a foot in the door in Sin City with people like

was quite possibly just the beginning.

Steve Wynn and Bobby Baldwin. Fourth was

“I tell all my people when I hire them that if they are still working

capitalizing and reinventing with every single

for me in three or four years, I hope that they are sitting in a conference

project he did. It seems as though for Andrew

room next to me. We want people who think, get things done, and have

and the Light Group, The Harmon if fifth.

a passion for what we do. People who want to replace me. Because that

Looking back at his track record, it is impos-

is the kind of passion that results in the success of projects like this,” he

sible not to look forward. So far so good, and

said, as he pointed his finger around the sales center.

there is no reason not to believe The Harmon

Step one was realizing that Porky’s is not an accurate depiction of American life. Step two was making a name for himself through various

won’t be the next step in redefinition in the way we look at hospitality.

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Breeze

TheCool

Keep the summer alive with floating chiffons and easy layers. Take me where the wind blows.

Photography: Inez van Lamsweerde and Vinoodh Matadin

Dress and Sandals: Yves Saint Laurent Clutch: YSL Croisiere Necklace: Karry'O

Dress, belt, and clutch: Gucci Sandals: Yves Saint Laurent

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Jacket: Roberto Cavalli, Dress: Hermes Elie Panties: Saab, Belt: Chanel, Clutch: Christian Louboutin

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Dress: Etro, Clutch: Chanel, Sandals: Yves Saint Laurent, Necklace: Karry’O

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Inside Swed Inside Sweden

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eden 100 Thousand Club

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us may seem like a bit more work than we are expecting during a relaxing few weeks.

Enter Sweden. The largest Scandinavian country, and one that provides a respite and reprieve from other more popular, more congested areas of Europe. The natural reaction to a vacation in Scandinavia may be met with popular notions of cold, stark white landscapes, bold beautiful blonde creatures going about their daily lives, and little excitement or culture to be had. While there are stark white landscapes – as well as a fair share of beautiful blonde men and women you will encounter if you traverse the country – the idea of an empty experience in regards to food, sights, art, culture, architecture, nightlife, and luxury could not be further from the truth.

In a place like Sweden, where it is not as easy to know where to stay, how to spend your time, and what to eat, it helps to have the knowledge of an insider. Luxury and enjoyment are waiting to be explored and enjoyed, and we have done the bulk of the legwork for you.

The logical place to take your first adventure is Stockholm. The largest and most well known city in Sweden boasts a tremendous amount of appeal for the international traveler.

It is an incredibly stunning place, built on fourteen islands where Lake Mälaren flows into the Baltic Sea and the Stockholm Archipelago.

The Archipelago itself is enough of a wonder to

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European holiday is a trip that

A

visit the city. It is a unique maritime land-

tends to have us exploring the

scape, with upwards of 24,000 islands. This

same places time and time

beautiful topography is dotted with such an

again. We become so enamored

eclectic mix of old and new, traditional and

with our favorite bistros in Paris and seaside

modern, that whatever your taste for culture

shrines to fresh fish in the Greek Isles, that a

and luxury craves, there are more than enough

good portion of the continent may unfortu-

attractions to satisfy.

nately go unexplored. Part of the allure of vis-

The city is so full of life, and combines

iting some of the countries that are less

such a unique mix of natural beauty with his-

traditional destinations is the feeling of being

torically significant architecture, that certain

taken out of our comfort zones. It’s a bit daunt-

areas take on a life of their own. Waterways

ing for some – the prospect of not hearing Eng-

and parks abound, and for a city of its size,

lish, French, Italian, or Spanish spoken around

Stockholm can seem like a quaint village.

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Even the city centre has vast open water and

selling local crafts, or a beautiful café featur-

beautiful parks, forests, walking areas, all the

ing some of the freshest seafood to be found in

while littered with restaurants, cafes, shops,

Northern Europe. It is luxury in a different way

and museums. Both Galma Stan (the Old Town

– luxury and refinement transcended away

part of the city) and Riddarholmen make up

from the grandeurs of the Ritz in Paris, or 47

the center. They are each an island, and com-

Park Street in London. This is refinement at its

bined are Northern Europe’s largest and most

simplest. A land of people where pretension

spectacular medieval city core.

and show are scoffed at in favor of preserva-

There aren’t a great many areas in Europe

tion and embracing the natural wonders and

for the well traveled that still cause one to take

treats of a place. When you linger over that

a step back and marvel every time they are ex-

place, it can be just as luxurious as the most

perienced. This 13th century medieval core is

dazzling resort in the world.

certainly one of them. Imagine strolling

Plan a day that starts at the aforemen-

through narrow alleys and picturesque streets,

tioned Royal Palace, and meander your way to

and stumbling upon the Royal Palace just as

a few museums. The one that we recommend

easily as you might encounter an artisan shop

most highly is the Nobelmuseet – the Nobel

There is an abundance of both traditional and nontraditional fare in Stockholm. Enjoy a multicourse meal of herring, or delicious French menus that rival any in the world.

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Museum – the keepsake of the prize’s history.

many languages. We prefer, however, to ex-

It is named after Sweden’s Alfred Nobel, and

plore on our own. Some of the greatest thrills of

will take you through the over 100-year-old

exploring and embracing the genteel and as-

history of the world’s most impressive award.

tounding qualities of a foreign place are the

Soak in the history of achievements of people

surprises you never planned on finding. Find

whose work has in many ways shaped the

yourself walking to the fantastic Fjällgatan

world over the last century. There is no need to

street, which will provide you with stunning

rush. The same type of crowds anticipated and

views across the city. There are a greaet deal of

dealt with at the Louvre won’t be found here. It

cafes to enjoy a midmorning or afternoon cof-

is the type of place you can lose yourself in for

fee, but we still feel obliged to mention one in

hours, and disconnect with the outside world.

particular. Fåfängan has historical roots, and

There won’t be fanny packed tourists and ob-

just sitting from its lookout position will help

noxious loads of Carnival Cruise passengers

you appreciate the modern European sensa-

anywhere in sight. The only time the place is

tions in such a historical place. The coffee is

overloaded with foot traffic is for the awards

delicious as well.

presentations. The difference is, when they ar-

While we can rave about the beautiful

rive, it becomes an exciting and splendid epi-

Old Town for an extended period, there are

center of international minds, scholars, and

other features of Stockholm not to be missed.

prestige.

Perhaps one of the things we like best about

Old Town Stockholm is also the type of

Stockholm is the contrast that it provides. All

place where city tours are offered in a great

within one city, there is the beauty of Old

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Town, as well as the culture, design, and culinary mecca that is Contemporary Stockholm. While it has gotten its fair share of publicity lately, the dynamic nature of the city’s emerging areas have to be seen to be appreciated. Shopping, fashion, design, restaurants, art, music, nightlife – they are all there, and with an original and genuine Swedish influence.

Spend an extended amount of time in two particular districts. One is comprised of the entertainment hub of Stureplan, and the very exclusive Östermalm district. If in the midst of your sightseeing and culture, you feel the need to do a bit of shopping, luxury shops, boutiques, and galleries abound. Luxury brands pop up all over the area, but what is special about Stockholm, and what truly makes it a different type of European holiday, is that you won’t be met by a tizzy of rushing shoppers and frantic activity like you would in Milan or Paris.

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Of course there are some specialties that

design. Take home crystal, and lots of it. The

Central Station, and is only a one-kilometer

you would be foolish to pass up. In Östermalm

best of Sweden’s famous gem can be found at

walk from Old Town and the splendid Royal

you will find yourself immersed in some of the

Orrefors/Kosta Boda’s concept store and

Palace. We particularly love the long low-

most famed and fabulous interior design stores

Nordisk Kristall. Thinking ahead, it may be

ceilinged contemporary lobby, the 9000-liter

in the world. Go through the different contem-

wise to pack an extra empty duffel in your suit-

aquarium – which is the focal point of the

porary Nordic and international designs in

case when flying in to Sweden. You never know

maritime theme – as well as the famous Ice

places such Asplund and Nordiska Galleriet,

what you may bring back.

Bar. It is a scene in an area where you can

and Svenskt Tenn, which features classic

When it comes to where to stay in this

Swedish furniture by the likes of the world

sparkling city, there are a plethora of options,

renowned Austrian-Swedish designer Josef

all which provide something a bit different

If you are looking for something a bit

Frank. So much of the design, textiles, and fur-

depending on what you are looking for. Tak-

more traditional, let us recommend the Vic-

niture we see in our daily lives is originally con-

ing advantage of the sleek modern design ori-

tory Hotel, a traditional property dating back

structed and conceptualized in the pieces you

ented Contemporary Stockholm, there are

to the 17th Century. It’s situated right in the

will be looking at, and for some, the experience

hotels that exhibit this type of designer

center of Old Town Stockholm, and is a five

can be similar to that of a modern museum.

also escape to more traditional, medieval areas. Quite a nice combination.

décor, with clean lines, modern furniture,

star boutique property that is a feast for the

Of course, when it comes to Sweden’s spe-

and a fashionable vibe. One in particular is

senses. The attention to detail is the first

cialties, there is no need to need to stop with

the Nordic Sea hotel. It is located in the chic

thing you will notice, with such a large array

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of antiques, many themed nautically. No mat-

bed. Don’t think you will be heading outside

periencing a fantastic restaurant boom, and

ter where you go in the hotel, you will be im-

to use a toilet, however. Modern amenities

has become a dynamic place to dine, no

mersed

models,

are tastefully integrated, such as a Jacuzzi,

matter what type of cuisine or what area of

figureheads, and dolls, all with a distinct and

in

pictures,

ship

Bang and Olufsen television and sound sys-

the city. And as is the case with most of Eu-

interesting historical tale attached to their

tem, heated bathroom floors, and wireless in-

rope, dining out here is not just about the

history. If you can, secure Captain Johans-

ternet access. Captain Johansson never had

food. The experience, environment, and at-

son’s Suite, in which the ceiling has not been

it so good.

mosphere all lend themselves to the overall

painted since 1640. The history of staying in

Speaking of having it good, one thing to

the room is palpable. The ceiling itself was

be sure and take advantage of at every cor-

commissioned by a Bishop Laurentius to

ner of your trip is the native cuisine of Swe-

Two restaurants we feel the need to rec-

have a mural painted over it. The family

den. For a city that features so much native

ommend, as must visits on your trip. The first

owned hotel group has said they will never,

seafood, there are a plethora of other options

one, Operakällaren, is a magnificent landmark

ever paint over it no matter what forward de-

as well. Our advice is to still stick to the tra-

located in the Royal Opera House. The ulti-

sign and refurbishment dictates.

ditional as much as possible, because even

mate see and be seen destination is filled with

enjoyment, and meals are enjoyed slowly and lingered over.

The rest of the interior is distinctly

Marcus Samuelson can’t duplicate some of

a who’s who of Stockholm socialites and nobil-

baroque in style, and you will feel right at

what is prepared here. That said, over the

ity on a nightly basis. The French-Swedish-

home among the wall tapestries and canopy

past decade or so, Stockholm has been ex-

International menue and very classic formal

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If you visit in the winter and get the chance to get out of Stockholm, visit the famous ICEHOTEL, situated in the village Jukkasj채rvi, 200 kilometres north of the Arctic Circle. The heart and backbone is the River Torne flowing freely through the unspoilt wilderness. Covered with a meter thick ice layer, winter time the river is the source of all the art, architecture and design. The pure water and the steady movement of the river creates the clearest ice possible. Each year the hotel is consructed and enjoyed by international travelers.

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French service will only add to an evening that

Of course, there are other ways to go about

lamb kidneys and smoked pork and barley

will be as memorable a meal as you can possi-

eating, and not all of them have to be as ex-

sausage. If you happen to visit during the cold

bly have. Indulge in the tasting menu that in-

travagant to be enjoyed. The 70-year-old KB

season, these will be sure to warm you up.

cludes dishes such as oven baked pike-pearch,

is the type of place enjoyed by locals and

Eat, drink, shop, stay, and play. This is a

creamed cauliflower pasta, potato fried lan-

artists alike, and specializes in traditional

destination that should not be missed, and we

goustine tail and oyster emulsion. Or on an-

down home Swedish fare. Indulge in an as-

hope you take advantage of some of our sugges-

other evening you might enjoy pheasant

sortment of herrings, from marinated and

tions. It is important to remember, you are only

consommĂŠ in jelly with black pĂŠrigord truffles.

caviar, to both capers and dill herring. If you

a strannger to a place your first visit. Before you

Complemented with a bottle of champagne and

want something that takes its roots from more

know it, you’ll have your favorite place for her-

life cannot get much better.

of the old village life, there is also suckling

ring that you must visit at least once a year

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100Thousand Club Manual: Sweden

RESTAURANTS

is created by an excellent chef, Norbert Lang.

Nobel Museum

You’ll also enjoy wonderful service from an ex-

We recommend most the Nobelmuseet – the Nobel Museum – the keepsake of the prize’s history. It is named after Sweden’s Alfred Nobel, and will take you through the over 100-year-old history of the world’s most impressive award. Soak in the history of achievements of people whose work has in many ways shaped the world over the last century. There is no need to rush. The same type of crowds anticipated and dealt with at the Louvre won’t be found here. It is the type of place you can lose yourself in for hours, and disconnect with the outside world.

Operakällaren

ceptional staff and a great wine selection mak-

This is a magnificent landmark of a restaurant in

ing it a great place for a private, romantic,

the lovely Royal Opera House in Norrmalm. It’s

meal that will never be forgotten.

extremely popular with tons of socialites and International debutantes. The opulent interior

Strandvägen 9

and delicious French-Swedish fare are sublime,

Stockholm, Sweden 11456. 08-663-8183

and the classic formal service is also superb.

www.paulochnorbert.se

The Royal Opera House

HOTELS

Karl XII:s Torg, Stockhom, Sweden 11186 08-676-5801. www.operakallaren.se

Victory Hotel

+46-(0)8-534 818 18. www.nobelmuseum.se

Let us recommend the Victory Hotel, a tradi-

Paul & Norbert

tional property dating back to the 17th Cen-

One of our favorites, this dining delight in

tury. It’s situated right in the center of Old Town

Nordic Sea Hotel

Östermalm may have the best food in in

Stockholm, and is a five star boutique property

Take advantage of modern, design-oriented

Stockholm. Its superb French-Swedish cuisine

that is a feast for the senses. The attention to

Stockholm. There are many hotels that exhibit

detail is the first thing you will notice, with such

this type of designer décor. One in particular

a large array of antiques, many themed nauti-

is the Nordic Sea hotel. Located in the chic

cally. No matter where you go in the hotel, you

Central Station, it is only a one-kilometer walk

will be immersed in pictures, ship models, fig-

from Old Town. We love the long low-

ureheads, and dolls, all with a distinct and in-

ceilinged contemporary lobby, the 9000-liter

teresting historical tale attached to their history.

aquarium as well as the famous Ice Bar.

Lilla Nygatan 5, Old Town

Vasaplan 4

S-111 28 Stockholm. +46-8-506 400 00.

Box 884, SE-101 37 Stockholm. +46 (0) 8 50

www.victoryhotel.se

56 30 00. www.nordicseahotel.com

KB When visiting Stockholm, we say stop at this cozy hangout in an excellent Norrmalm location. It is lots of fun after more than 70 years. There is art in the dining room and tons of great traditional husmanskost (downhome Swedish fare). It’s perfect any time of day, and especially lively in the evening.

Smålandsgatan 7 Stockholm, Sweden 11146. 08-679-6032 www.konstnarsbaren.se

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Hours in Seattle

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DAY ONE

body the spirit and individuality of the city.

food products. We have three recommendations

Our favorite is Hotel 1000, This Kiwi Collec-

for you…

11:00am: Arrival

tion four and a half star intimate and mature

1.) Stop by The Tasting Room – Pick

There is something breathtaking about fly-

property exudes the warmth and comfort of the

up a couple bottles of Washington State’s best

ing into the Emerald City. There is no better

water front nook of the Pacific. Check into the

artisan and hardest to find wines. While there,

place to check out this view than from your

2,000 square foot Grand Suite where you can

you can also taste wines from several state

cozy seat in a Lear 55 chartered from Flight-

gaze out over downtown Seattle and the water-

wineries in their European Style wine cave.

maker Jet Charter Club. The folks at Flight-

front with the views from the 14th floor perch.

maker will make sure your travels go off

hint of cheese into Beecher’s Handmade

without a hitch.

1:00pm: Pike Place Market There is no better way of realizing a city’s

right before your very eyes. Sample a variety

12:00pm: Check-In

heart and soul that by visiting its local markets.

of cheeses and pick a couple to eat with the

In Seattle’s case, Pike Place Market is an

wine you just bought.

Lodging in Seattle has taken on it’s own

112

2.) Follow your nose when it picks up a Cheese to watch the savory creations crafted

type of personality. There is no Ritz. There is

attraction

cavernous

3.) Take your gourmet packages over

no St. Regis. But this means beautiful bou-

outdoor/indoor space, it hosts a variety of

to Vine Covered Post Alley’s Café Campagne

tique, exquisitely designed properties, whose

interesting shops, gourmet restaurants, and

for a delectable French lunch of cassoulet and

personalities, artwork, and architecture em-

retailers of some of the finest artisan and fresh

croque-madame.

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unto

itself.

A

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3:30pm: Museum of Flight

Hotel 1000 and crack open your local cheeses

the calendar, you are assured to walk away in

Every splendid, educated city will have its

and wines. By this time you’ll need a small

awe. Since Peter Boal took over as Artistic Di-

fair share of museums and exhibits, but it is

snack while showering and dressing for din-

rector in July of 2005, the PNB has expanded its

most worthwhile to check out the ones that de-

ner. With a late dinner looming, it’s a good idea

repertory to include works by Ulysses Dove,

fine that particular place. The Museum of Flight

to have a small nosh. Take in the views of Pa-

Susan Marshall, Mark Morris, and Twyla Tharp.

is an ode to aviation. There are a many exhibits

cific Northwest’s crown jewels while enjoying

Additionally, if you plan your trip properly, you

to check out, but there is one in particular we

your native wine.

may just be there for the newly inaugurated

think is worthy of attention. The Air Force One exhibit, in which you can actually check out the first presidential jet plane, a specifically built

Spring Dance Festival, themed Laugh Out Loud!

7:30pm: Pacific Northwest Ballet

for 2008.

10:00pm: Late Dinner and Drinks

Boeing 707-120, known as Special Air Missions

Feeling warm and fuzzy, and with a holdover

970. It was delivered in 1959 to replace Presi-

on your appetite, settle into a couple orchestra

dent Eisenhower’s Super Constellation. It also

seats in McCaw Hall for a world-class perform-

It may be time for something a bit more

carried JFK, LBJ, and Nixon.

ance. The Pacific Northwest ballet is a top venue

masculine. When that is the calling, there is

for some of the most spectacular ballets in the

no better place to stop by than El Gaucho, a

country. With special performances all year, and

boys club among boys club. The essence of

a wonderful company, no matter what event is on

nostalgic dining, with service to match, El

5:30pm: Enjoy Your Treats Retreat back to your Grand Suite at the

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Gaucho will satisfy your every need. Listen to

Order up an energizing weekend brunch from

ern, luxe ballpark has garnered a reputation

the live piano music while dining. Among our

Boka Kitchen and Bar within the hotel, and get

as a terrific venue to enjoy our National pas-

favorite are the oysters rockefellar or the day’s

ready for your second day of activity. If need

time. With sweeping views of Seattle’s down-

selection of fresh northwest oysters. Follow

be, and you are still moving a bit slower than

town skyline and breathtaking sunsets over

them with the chateubriand for two, carved

you would like, have another cup of coffee in

the Puget Sound, it is a baseball experience

tableside. You also can’t go wrong with fresh

the hotel’s eternally classy lounge, The Library,

that distinguishes itself from many of the oth-

Australian lobster tail. And be sure to finish it

where you can sit at a wonderful indoor fire-

ers around the country.

off with a bananas foster, also prepared

pit before heading out for the day.

5:00pm: Spa Treatments

tableside.

1:00pm: Seattle Mariners

DAY TWO 10:00am: Rise and Relax

114

Head back to Hotel 1000 for a trip to

There are few better ways to feel the

their Spaahh. This soothing venue has a va-

pulse of a city than to check out its local

riety of services that will give you just what

sports teams, and with the beginning of

you need. Whether it be a facial, massage, or

Spring, there are few better ways to spend a

just the simple manicure and pedicure, their

Wake-up a bit later than normal and slip

Sunday afternoon than at a ballgame. Espe-

menu will cater to your every whim and need.

into a comfortable robe. There is no need to

cially when the ballpark is Safeco Field.

Some of the highlights include the 1000

rush, and all the reason in the world to linger.

Home of the Seattle Mariners, this ultra-mod-

Hands of Relief, a featured ninety minute

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massage, as well as the Grand Extravagance

ting to indulge than Iron Chef Challenger

boardrooms and briefs. Vessel is a modern and

facial, which encompasses the aestheticians

Tom Douglas’s long standing flagship, the

elegant space that takes much pride in its abil-

tailoring the treatment to rejuvenate the skin

Dahlia Lounge. Sample everything from

ity to craft perfect cocktails – all mixed with

and pamper every single pore. A more com-

roasted squab and curried vegetable samosas

house made bitters and syrups. The design is

plete treatment is the Urban Retreat Pack-

to handmade pasta and turnip gratin, before

lovely, the live music soothing, and the venue

age, which includes a manicure, pedicure, as

the feature presentations of sautéed pacific

is one in which you can either mingle with the

well as the Grand Extravagance.

ling cod and Snake River Farm rotisserie

other beautiful patrons, or find a quiet nook to

pork loin. When you leave you’ll understand

enjoy some private time.

7:30pm: Dinner Showered, dressed, looking like a million

why Mr. Douglas is the king of the Seattle culinary empire.

12:00am: Return

10:00pm: All Aboard

style, aboard a plane` arranged by Flight-

Leave the way you came. In comfort and

bucks, it’s time to get an authentic taste of Seattle. Pacific Northwest is a cuisine to be treasured for many reasons, most importantly

It’s time to board the Vessel, because after

maker. Get comfy in a large leather seat with a

versatility. The main tenet of this culinary

being stuffed by Mr. Douglas, you are certainly

soft blanket, and if you end up nodding off

artistry is its proud use of regional and sea-

going to need a digestif to settle your stomach,

you’ll probably end up dreaming about all

sonal ingredients that features the natural

and something to put you in that perfect state

those Kumamoto oysters.

flavors of a product. There is no better set-

of “Ahhh” before you board your flight back to

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Living Carolina With beaches, mountains, lakes, cities, and charming small towns, North Carolina provides not only great real estate opportunities, but represents a lifestyle. Asheville is a great place to start.

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W

hen it comes to buying

scream relaxation and luxury, but many times without

luxury

estate,

the congestion of more popular destinations. There are

whether it is a second

many areas we would love to highlight, all of which

home, a third home, or a

would make terrific places to purchase. One in partic-

primary relocation, one

ular, Asheville, and the surrounding areas, with the

thing is certain. No mat-

Blue Ridge Mountains and a bevy of other enjoyable

real

ter where you are, you can always find a luxurious condo,

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elements, is a place we recommend most highly.

a beautifully constructed home, or a lavishly decorated

Asheville is that type of unique, special place that

and grand estate. Often overlooked are other elements of

lingers sweetly in your mind and memories for years to

the purchase, namely, the lifestyle that is available to you

come. The city's rich architectural legacy, with its mix

in that specific place. Of course there are great golf

of Art Deco, Beaux Arts and Neoclassical styles, is the

courses in South Florida, and beautiful beaches in Mex-

perfect retro-urban backdrop to the edgy energy that

ico, but very often, it is a one- dimensional type of

emanates from the locally owned-shops and art gal-

lifestyle that these places provide. This is fine for spe-

leries, distinctive restaurants and exciting entertain-

cialty homes that are only used for specific weekends in

ment venues. Known as an art colony, a healing resort,

specific times of the year. However, it is possible to have

and a home to notable luminaries, statesmen and bo-

more. It is possible to buy in a place where the lifestyle

hemians, Asheville is one of the most welcoming, vi-

– and the diversity of lifestyle – is the major draw. North

brant cities in America. A bastion of cutting-edge art

Carolina is that type of place.

and technology in the Blue Ridge, the city also prides

It is special in a few ways. There is such a great

itself on its fascinating Appalachian past and cele-

diversity of lifestyles to enjoy, and each of its areas and

brates this culture with annual events such as Shindig

special cities has particularly endearing elements that

on the Green. While many cities underwent major

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overhauls in past decades, Asheville's historic and ar-

When it comes to dining, the area was once lacking

chitecturally diverse downtown remains beautifully

a bit, but due to the influx of people coming to the region

preserved.

from all over the country, the scene is now bright, up to

There are plenty of different attractions and activ-

date, and offers something for everyone. Exactly what you

ities to be enjoyed at your leisure as well. You can take

should be looking for in a place to put down some roots.

railway excursions through the Blue Ridge Mountains

Area restaurants run the gamut from Mediterranean to

or go whitewater rafting on one of three rivers in the

vegetarian, four-star cuisine to down-home cooking. The

area. For the sporting type golf excursions at one of the

city’s vibrant restaurant scene goes well beyond its

fourteen challenging courses in the Asheville area are

Southern cooking and roots. Expect the extraordinary in

quite common as well. Hiking on one of 75 trails in the

Asheville, whether it’s organic, hormone-free beef, moun-

area, including those on Mount Mitchell, the highest

tain trout caviar or sweet potato salad. Most of Asheville's

point east of the Mississippi River, is a great way to

chefs use flair and creativity to produce delicious dishes.

start any morning when visiting a summer home.

There are several local farm to table restaurants, and

For more traditional, everyday needs, there is a

Asheville is a great spot to relax at one of the many side-

plethora of shopping in over 100 antique shops in

walk cafes. Many restaurants also feature live music from

downtown Asheville, Biltmore Village and Black

jazz to bluegrass.

Mountain. For a more art-oriented shopping experi-

Some of our favorites include the Blue Ridge Din-

ence, the local artisans and craftspeople are always

ing Room, where you can enjoy a delicious menu while

keen for people to drop by their studios to shop and ob-

overlooking the Asheville skyline, championship golf

serve them at work. There are also many historic homes

course and Blue Ridge Mountains. They have great

and gardens that welcome daily visitors to tour, enjoy,

fresh Friday seafood, Saturday prime rib and Sunday

and relax.

brunch buffets. Very often there is live entertainment

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on weekends. Another great choice for something a bit

Your entire body can be scrubbed in luscious organic

less traditional is Zambra, a Spanish tapas restaurant

brown sugar and vanilla, or wrapped in divine mountain

with a Middle Eastern twist. In our opinion is has has

honey and warm goatbutter cream. The Asheville area’s

Asheville's most beautiful dining room, most daring

reputation as a destination for spa treatments and well-

menu and the area's most extensive Iberian wine list.

ness dates back centuries. One of the East Coast’s only

Another element that has become increasingly im-

natural hot spring water sources, in Hot Springs, has

portant when choosing a place to purchase real estate,

been attracting visitors since its discovery in the 1700s.

and has taken on an tremendous amount of attention

Its mineral waters are still known for treating a variety of

in Asheville specifically, is the idea of health and well-

ailments, including anemia, nerve conditions, heart prob-

ness. From yoga to pilates, from spa treatments to pedi-

lems and digestive issues.

cures, the spa culture is pervasive anywhere luxury

Today, the Asheville area has evolved into a pre-

and relaxation is desired. Here, you can indulge in an

mier spa destination. The region features a diverse mix

aromatherapy massage while gazing at the majestic

of treatments and wellness services virtually unheard-

Blue Ridge Mountains. Or get away from it all in a se-

of outside major metropolitan areas.

cluded log cabin, where you can relax in your personal

Asheville’s devotion to wellness does not end with

spa tub filled with warm mineral spring waters and

massages and facials. There are five yoga studios in

boasting a view of the stars above.

Asheville alone. There are also classes in tai chi and

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pilates, as well as couples weekends learning Argen-

locally owned coffee-shops, and listen to live music at

tine tango. Be it a simple weekend of relaxation, a ro-

a local club. They go on art walks, winding their way

mantic couple’s getaway in the mountains or a chance

through downtown’s 30-plus galleries. Shoppers in-

to improve your health, Asheville is the ultimate des-

spect unique boutique finds, or people simply enjoy

tination for those seeking spas and wellness.

fine cuisine and people-watching.

A last and most important aspect of the Asheville

Asheville skipped the urban renewal process that

area’s lifestyle appeal is its possession of a downtown.

stripped the character from many downtowns. Today,

No matter how much we want to get away from it all

its rich architectural legacy with its mix of Art Deco,

and find peace in solitude, there will always exist the

Beaux Arts and Neoclassical styles is the perfect back-

urges to enjoy some vibrancy. Downtown Asheville is a

drop to the city’s edgy energy.

rare place. Artists and street musicians converge with

Overall, there is little left to be desired in this city

tourists and locals for a vibrancy rarely found in a city

– which is indicative of the entire state. After all, you

of this size. There is always something happening

sleep in your home, but you live most of your life out-

downtown. People sip cups of coffee at one of several

side of it.

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Living Canadian With a variety of cities, all with distinct personalities, Canada provides something for everyone.

C

anada, like North Carolina, is geographically a very diverse place with a plethora of different lifestyle options. It has become very popular in recent years with Americans looking to purchase different ski

homes and getaway condos in nearby cities. One thing that shouldn’t be overlooked, however, is that there is much more than meets the eye when it comes to Canada. You may see snow, but surfing is probably only a short drive away. You may be standing in a historic old town district, but it is very likely that you can purchase a state of the art condominium just a short taxi ride away. You can have the best of both worlds in Canada. Winter and Summer, all in the same realm. You can live in a modern, beautifully designed, hotel condominium,

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and still stroll to a small, classic, antique district for dinner and some gallery browsing.

Rather than focus on the actual real estate projects, and buying opportunities, we find it more important to focus on the features of prospective locations where you may want to purchase a second or third home.

Toronto Every city has an identity, and Toronto's is written by the people. It is written through everything from poetry and music, to sidewalk art and museums, to stunning architecture.

Toronto is a city built with and for the limitless imaginations of the people who go there to live, either permanently or for a holiday home. The feeling you get when you come across a restaurant menu that has multiple things you want to order, and you crave them all and want to order every dish, is very similar to what it’s like to live in Toronto. Toronto’s cultures offer an unparalleled variety of opportunities to explore and enjoy different things on a daily basis. The beautiful architecture is one of the city’s most endearing qualities, as there are traditional buildings of the settlers alongside modern, sleek, gold-tined skyscrapers. More than 1,000 festivals take place every year – an extremely eclectic mix – that provides for culture and enjoyment at every turn. If you’re the kind who likes the unexpected, Toronto is certainly a great place to be.

Vancouver One of the world's most spectacular cities, Vancouver was recently named the Most Liveable City in the world by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU). It is one of the only places in the world where it is possible ski, golf, and surf all on the same day.

There are much simpler pleasures to be had as well. Take the time to cycle or stroll along the Stanley Park seawall, a paved 10-km loop with every moment of it privy to magnificent mountain, ocean, forest and city views.

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While you're in the park, pay a visit to the internation-

kayaks, boat rentals, marine souvenirs and of course,

ally-acclaimed Vancouver Aquarium Marine Science

seafood. Granville Island is also dotted with an array of

Centre, one of North America's five largest aquariums.

arts-and-crafts studios and galleries dedicated to local

Vancouver is a place divided up into a variety of differ-

and regional work. Galleries are interspersed between

ent areas, each with their own defining characteristics

chic shops and eclectic restaurants, making it an entic-

and beauty. All of which can be taken advantage of when

ing area to spend any day – the ideal type of retreat for a

living in the area. One in particular that provides a lovely

second home.

visit from any area of the city is Granville Island.

An eclectic mix of shops, boutiques and galleries,

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Montreal

Granville Island is perhaps most famous for its large and

Montreal is the gem of the St. Lawrence, and the

bustling Public Market, where local food vendors and ar-

Paris of North America. Of course this sounds like a

tisans peddle their wares. You’ll be able to browse the

cliché, but these phrases both blur and reveal the

charming shops of the Net Loft, where retailers offer

truth. Founded by French explorers more than 350

everything from exotic stationary to beads of every shape

years ago, it is among the oldest cities on the conti-

and kind, funky hats, First Nations gifts, books and lo-

nent, and its history is a rich backdrop to its vibrant

cally-made fashions. The Maritime Market clusters to-

multicultural life. While Montreal is notorious for its

gether retailers who specialize in all things ocean related:

harsh winters, the city flourishes with a hot, sweet

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summer that is always alive with festivals, street fairs and what seems like a never ending supply of street

When visiting Montreal as a prospective buyer, and needing a place to stay,

cafes and terrace cafĂŠs. These are the type of places

we recommend Le Place D’Armes Hotel and Suites. It is a lovely boutique

that give Montreal such a Parisian, European like feel.

property located in Old Montreal. It is a beautiful blend of contemporary,

Old and young alike, people of all backgrounds, both

yet still retains a sense of classic. Style and comfort are found in their rooms,

tourists and locals, treat these cafes as if they are liv-

and you do not have to go far for a great meal. Restaurant Aix Cuisine du

ing rooms. Come and eat, relax, drink, read – no one

Terroir features beautiful Quebec market cuisine, with most of the ingredi-

will ever make you feel out of place or like you should

ents locally grown and sourced. A beautiful wellness center, called Rainspa

rush for any reason.

is also on property, and provides such treatments as Hammam, and there is

Living in Montreal can be exciting and fun. The Old

esthetician for the face and body.

Montreal section provides some of the more traditional experiences, but the newer part of the city can hold a candle to almost any other place with its selection of

lead you to world glass golf, many courses with views that

great restaurants, bars, and theater. (We recommend be-

will take your breath away.

coming a regular at Moishes Steakhouse). There is also a

Montreal may be the second largest city in Canada but

nightlife scene that is perhaps unparalleled in the coun-

is still able to hold on to the character of a smaller town.

try. With McGill University located in the city, there are

With its rich history and French culture, Montreal is a mix-

plenty of ethnic cultural opportunities as well. When it

ture of old and new. The city has a thriving art community

comes to activity, golf is also a major draw. Just a short

and is renowned for putting on spectacular festivals. It is

drive in almost any direction from the city center will

a unique city to all others in North America.

Toronto

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Mead Welles is different than most of the young, wildly successful, NYC hedge fund managers.

For most, interview requests focus on battles between funds, and the lavish spending of their managers. Mead is different, and his work is special. Apart from his company, Octagon Holdings, his charity, A Leg To Stand On (ALTSO), raises money to help children in foreign countries with damaged limbs get the necessary care. Mead took the time to chat with us about his work, hobbies, and what the future holds.

Interview by Harlan Seth Davis

Modern Day Renaissance Man

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I’d travel to exotic places and try to save cost by taking public transportation and scheduling flights to go from one country to the next overnight so I wouldn’t have to pay for hotel rooms. It was exhausting physically and emotionally.

I ended up after five or six different legs of the trip in Jakarta. I checked into the first hotel I was staying in and it was a very run down place, but I was just very grateful to have a bed.

I went downstairs to have dinner after my meetings that day and sat in a little restaurant outside. I was thinking about how much I couldn’t wait until I can enjoy the luxuries of having financial success as an entrepreneur.

It was actually having a self-pity party because I was – what’s the best way to put it? I would sort of complain to myself about how I’d sacrificed so much to start this company.

I was just thinking about how I couldn’t wait until I can just take a taxi without feeling guilty or order a bottle of wine without feeling like I’m spending too much money.

As I was sitting there having this self-pity party, these two children came walking by with ropes tied to an upside down garbage can lid. They were maybe seven or eight years old.

As they walked by they were begging for money. They didn’t really approach me, and I was just watching.

As they went by I saw there was a third boy on the garbage can lid that was a little bit younger. The expression on the child’s face was just one of lifelessness. No energy, no smile, nothing. Just void.

It struck me as odd because children are 100TC: What was the driving force behind A Leg to Stand On?

typically such optimistic and happy beings without any real cares in

MW: My job prior to Octagon was at a company called Cargill, a large

the world.

privately held company. I was responsible for managing assets in developing countries.

leg was severely deformed; both his legs were. Just sort of hitting me right

At a young age, I was given a fair degree of responsibility, whether right

in my chest. The timing of it was somewhat – ironic. Whether you believe

or wrong or justified, but you tend to start seeing things in a different light

in God or not, I think God trying to give me a wake up call. At that point I

when you’re managing millions and billions of dollars.

sat there and I was paralyzed by the sight of it. They walked by, and they kept

As I traveled throughout the world you’d see the poverty and you’d re-

134

As they went by I could see that the child on the lid was – his limb, his

going and off they went.

alize how well we have it here in the US. When I left Cargill to start Octa-

I went up to my hotel room afterwards and just sat there. I couldn’t help

gon I was trying to do it on a conservative budget because I was using my

think about this child and how here I was complaining about how tough I

own savings and I took no outside capital.

had it.

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100TC: So you wanted to do something.

like the Roctoberfest, it’s a bit of a phenomenon. Over the last few years

MW: Exactly. Yet this child had such a long road to go just to get to where

the hedge fund culture, especially in New York has become a pop cul-

I was. How selfish and how self-centered it was of me to think that way.

ture phenomenon.

I realized I could have changed that child’s life by just taking him to a hospital and paying for an orthopedic surgeon to perform a corrective surgical procedure to at least give him a lot more functionality of the limbs than what he had.

It seems like you recognized the potential to harness a lot of these people to unite them for causes.

How far do you see this going? What further developments can you make using the hedge fund community to help you?

I guesstimated it might have cost a couple thousand dollars. Just hav-

MW: That’s a good question. We’re constantly trying to think of ways to cre-

ing had some exposure to injuries -- orthopedic surgeons from playing sports

atively approach the industry where we’re not duplicating other organiza-

at school. So, that to me was the straw that broke the camel’s back. I ended

tions’ appeals.

up making a decision to myself that even though I was starting this for-profit,

In the past we’ve done things. I try to use the things that I know I like

I would work on starting a non-profit so at least I could give back in a way

to do to try to again leverage off those to get attention for the cause. Unfor-

where I could at least be a vehicle to bring the resources to the need.

tunately it draws a lot more attention to me, which I’m not a big fan of, as I

100TC: So what happened next?

mentioned yesterday.

MW: I happened, coincidentally, to be in a wedding. A friend of mine who’s

Conceptually I would do anything for these kids. When you go over, it

had asked me to be in his wedding party. It turned out that a classmate of

humbles you, it teaches you more about you than you can learn in a lifetime

mine from Bates was one of the bridesmaids.

of reading books and meeting psychotherapists.

We were catching up after the at the reception and her father came by and introduced himself.

Actually when my friend introduced me she said, “This is my father,

There’s nothing more powerful than going to a hospital in a place that you’ve never even heard of and you see a young girl whose arms have been literally blown off, she has burns on her torso and part of her face. So not

Dr. Patel.” I said, “Oh great. Do you mind if I ask what kind of doctor you are?” He said, “No, I’m an orthopedic surgeon.” So I shared the idea and he said “If you decide to do this I’ll support you in any way I can.” It turns out he was the chief of arthroscopic surgery at Mass General Hospital and on the medical faculty of Harvard Medical School.

100TC: So he was the real facilitator to get this thing rolling.

MW: Yeah; so with his medical expertise and my business expertise, we were able to get this launched and went on our first mission to India and have been snowballing and growing the organization organically using relationships.

I’d rather people see what the need is and we put together some videos . The photos – the before and after photos are just – they’re night and day. You see what the need is and you fix it.

100TC: These are the best stories. So many foundations are started by people conceiving different ideas for years, but this is obviously something that has evolved one step at a time out of nowhere.

It’s funny you mentioned using the hedge fund community that you’re very involved in, because from some of the things you have done,

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only does she have no arms, her face and her upper body are completely

kets I had gotten to the point where I could recognize where they were –

scarred from the burns.

Voids of capital. I said, well, no one’s providing capital in this way or there’s

She walks down the street and people look at her in a sheepish way

out and try to capitalize on that.

being looked at and there’s psychological damage and that desire to be nor-

100TC: What year was it that you started Octagon?

mal. When you’ve got these permanent scars and missing limbs, it’s just –

MW: I started in ’97. So I’d only been out in the corporate world on Wall

the question is who’s going to love me looking like this? Am I ever going to

Street for two years and then went to Cargill afterwards.

have the joys of having a family through natural conception? Will anyone

100TC: The reason I’m asking is because it’s quite an ambitious under-

want me?

taking for a 27 or 28 year old. Obviously the way you succeeded with Octa-

On top of that you think about the daily struggles. Everything she does

gon and the way that the success has continued with ALTSO, I’m curious

has to be assisted. If she wants to eat, she’s got to have somebody put food

about the fear of failure. How do you keep yourself going? Not every patch

in her mouth. She can’t go to the bathroom without assistance. The most hu-

is an easy patch. Can you give me insight in dealing with the negative stuff

miliating, difficult things. It just gets worse and worse. We want to give them

and setbacks?

anonymity, which everyone finds so peculiar, but it’s just being equal, being

MW: Yeah; it’s a good question. I think I was very lucky because I came

a part of everyone else.

from a family that had a great deal of money. Unfortunately the money

This one girl we gave the arms to began to breakdown and

was lost and there was a sharp

she was embarrassed to show that she had tears in her eyes.

change in lifestyle. During college

The first thing she did is use her prosthetic limbs to cover her face ‘cause she was crying. It makes you cry, too. It’s such a powerful thing.

100TC: I can only imagine. I can sense the emotion in your voice.

“I’d always wanted to be an entrepreneur. I always wanted to do

MW: You’re right. So, getting back to your question, what we’ve

things my way.”

I’d have to work jobs after school and you end up understanding the value of a dollar.

Because during the summer I never had a chance to do what a lot of my friends were doing. It always

been doing is holding events again, which allow for us to lever-

made me want that more because I

age our resources that will keep the costs down. I played polo

couldn’t have it.

so we’ve had Polo events. Then I’m in the band Roctoberfest so the band plays at the polo event.

After my first two years in New York I was thinking about moving jobs.

I had been volunteering to work some polo ponies out at the polo club.

We’ve had auctions where we have various types of items. The objec-

I heard one of the players needed a groom that could take care of his

tive is to, again, be very creative in tying in corporate sponsorship and get-

horses and play on his team as a substitute for him in tournaments. I said,

ting interaction by anyone and everyone, and making the entry price a lot

“What are you looking for and how much do you want to pay?” He offered

less difficult for people to afford. There are other organizations that focus

me the job. I’d be making more money than I’d make at the job I was cur-

on these big -ticket items and shows. I hate to say it, but it becomes more

rently at on Wall Street.

of an ego thing. It’s more of a chance for people to show how much money

I went back to the chairman of our company and requested a leave of

they have than to actually say look, this is what we’re doing. I’d rather have

absence. He thought it was so unusual, particularly being in an asset man-

this be a community effort where people feel compelled to give in either a

agement firm. He said, “Why don’t you go. Actually you might meet some

financial or a personal way.

potential investors that could be helpful to the business.”

That’s what’s so good about Roctoberfest is that the musicians are all

So he granted me a leave of absence for the summer season to play and

in the Hedge Fund community and this is a way for them to give in a non-

to work for this guy –

fancy way. It’s a great way for them to bring together their friends and do it

100TC: A sports sabbatical?

for a good cause.

MW: It’s a unique thing. I went out and it was a great experience for me,

100TC: Switching gears, what was the career path you took? Was it some-

but I had this sick feeling that all my friends were advancing their careers

thing you planned or did everything just kind of fall into place just like it

and that I was staying stationary.

did with ALTSO? What led you to branch off and start Octagon?

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just not enough supply out there. That leaves the door open. I’m going to go

because she’s so peculiar looking. So now you’re under the microscope

Although my polo was improving dramatically and at the end of the

MW: I’d always wanted to be an entrepreneur. I always wanted to do things

season I was asked if I wanted to go down to Argentina and play, which I

my way. You see opportunities, you see windows and in the financial mar-

was very excited about.

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thing, but they didn’t want me to work with any other companies.

They wanted exclusivity.

Then as it turned out a lot of them just wanted to learn the technology and then cut me out. because I said look, I’m going to make you free money.

100TC: How do you balance your time among everything you do?

Didn’t you tell me the other day you’re expecting a baby?

MW:Yes. My wife and I are expecting in August. It’s a good question.

We’ve had three funds, which has just been taking up too much time.

My goal is not to make a billion dollars.

I’ve made enough money. I’ve stepped down from running ALTSO. I’m still on the board, but there’s the chairman that’s taken over much of the administrative responsibility, but I’m still involved in all the events and discussions, 100TC: Are you still playing polo? What are you doing to unwind when you have a free moment?

MW:This past year I hurt my back and I only played a little bit but I’m looking to play when the season starts. But otherwise for me, polo’s been a big tonic, if you will, to get your mind off work.

100TC: Do you golf?

“My goal is not to make a billion dollars”

MW:I do golf. I grew up golfing, but I’ve always thought, golf takes the same amount of time as polo so while I’m able and fit to play polo I’ll

I knew being a professional polo player was not really a dependable ca-

100TC: Obviously, financially you are at a point now where it’s not your

I went back to the mutual fund and through various connections ended up

goal to make a billion dollars. What you wanted to do you’ve done, and

at Cargill.

you’re changing your role a bit. With something like ALTSO, it’s probably

But the sick feeling that I had inside, about making the wrong decision

something you’ll continue to be involved in till forever. In regards to work,

about my career and losing time and everyone moving on. All my friends

does there come a point where you just wash your hands of everything and

saying you’re never going to get a job again. No one’s going to hire, you’ll

never think about going into an office, or do you have the kind of drive that

be a failure, you’ll never make any money. If you get hurt playing polo what

translates between the non-profit and the profit, and this’ll be something

are you going to do, blah, blah.

that you’ll always do?

So I had all those kinds of influences circling around in my head. That failure feeling was very strong.

When I left Cargill, I was starting Octagon and as time went on, you’re working on getting things going.

MW: It’s a good question. I toy with cashing out, but I’m young. I’m 40. I enjoy seeing the opportunity and tbeing able to extract value out of it. When you reach a point you can sort see the markers and you see where the glaring opportunities are and it’s like taking low hanging fruit.

As my friends were bringing in big bonuses and getting promoted, you

I’m not the biggest fan of managing money for third parties anymore.

can’t help but to feel some of those same feelings. Everyone’s moving on and

You end up holding people’s hands and it uses up a lot of time that could

I’m staying still or going backwards. The benefit was that those feelings

be used to do deals.

were familiar. I’d had them before. I knew that I was resourceful enough that I could work out of it.

That was a very helpful experience - to give me the confidence to con-

138

do that, and then play golf when I’m on vacations and the rest of my life.

reer so I ended up going back and interviewing with different firms before

I think right now I’m – I’ll probably work for a few more years and then my goal is to really focus on family. I’ve got enough of a nest egg that I can provide for a family comfortably.

tinue with Octagon because I initially started it as an advisory firm, to show

I’m not so worried about things financially, but at this point I’d rather

other commodity companies how to use their working capital and trades in

see the other people that have helped me build a bigger nest egg and

creative ways to arbitrage the emerging financial market. It ended up

that’s really why I’m sticking out with it longer. After that it’s just I think

happening that these companies were very interested in doing some-

family and friends.

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Online. Every single limited edition issue of the 100Thousand Club is available at www.100thousandclub.com. Take a visit for more exclusive information on our partners.

www.100thousandclub.com Your exclusive online resource for all things luxury.

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Modern Design Legendary Collection On Tuesday November 13th of last year, at the Porsche Design Studio in New York City, Veuve Clicquot unveiled Vertical Limit, a Porsche designed installation that featured twelve Veuve Clicquot vintage magnums. This type of collection had not been put together before, and is the ultimate collection. The piece itself was breathtaking. Most of Porsche Design Studio’s creations are at the pinnacle of forward thinking style and functionality, and the Vertical Limit was no exception. 100Thousand Club was there celebrating the unveiling, tasting a few of the vintages, and feasting on delectable nibbles such as foie gras and caviar. It was an incredible evening that consisted of many people from the Moet Hennessy and Veuve Clicquot family.

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Cyril Brun, a charming French winemaker with Veuve Clicquot was in town from France to unveil the exquisitely crafted tower of magnums. He was happy to teach people the different characteristics of each of the vintages, dating back to 1955. Additionally, some prospective buyers of this limited edition collector’s item were on-site as well, checking out the striking design first hand. The tower comes with different plates for every year, so once the Veuve Clicquot vintage magnums are finished, collectors can store their other bottles with the corresponding vintage.

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A few weeks after the unveiling,

all things epicurean, and his spe-

100Thousand Club caught up

cial love for champagne made

with Moet Hennessy’s Charles

him the perfect person to gain in-

Curtis, MW, one of only 24 certi-

sight from on the special tower.

fied Masters of Wine in the

He also shared with us some of

United States. Charles’s love for

his personal tasting notes.

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Charles Curtis – My Selected Notes on Champagne Veuve Clicquot Vertical Limit vintages 1955: Good bud break followed by a killing frost that destroyed 500 ha. This disaster was followed by a late flowering and then by a good, warm growing season. Harvest was late (early October). Wines with high acidity and lots of extract – fantastic aging potential.

These have stayed rapier sharp and racy, with a very subtle evolution. The blend of the earlier vintages was always given as “67% Pinot Noir, 33% Chardonnay”. Roger Zèches was the chef des caves 1962 Poor budbreak and flowering and a cool season was saved by a very fine arrièresaison, and a small crop was harvested in early October. Very rare wines that have an exotic, tropical edge. The blend again given as “67% Pinot Noir, 33% Chardonnay”.

Roger Zèches was the chef des caves 1969 Virtually a repeat of ’62, except that there was hail in August that nearly destroyed the crop. Even smaller yields saved by an Indian summer, giving wines with high acidity yet fairly rich sugars. Rich, wine-like and concentrated, these wines have aged very gracefully. The blend again given as “67% Pinot Noir, 33% Chardonnay”.

Jean Boureux was the chef des caves

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Speaking with Charles What is the historical significance of the Vertical Limit for Veuve Cliquot in terms of the collection? Have this many vintages ever been released in a collection even remotely close in stature to this one?

This release, with these vintages, is really a once-in-a-lifetime occasion. While magnums are kept at the winery, the quantities available are generally limited.

From your perspective, is the purchase of a Vertical Limit tower something that is geared more towards a collector, or a connoisseur?

The vertical limit appeals on so many levels that it will be attractive

with the most potential for future aging include the 1955, 1961, 1985, 1988, and 1990.

both to serious wine collectors for the quality and variety of wine it contains, as well as to the lover of design.

If you were going to purchase one, where would you keep it?

Which is your favorite vintage of the group, and why?

Because of the beauty of the design and

Each of these vintages is fantastic in its own way.

the rarity of the wines that it contains, I would

I’ve always been a great fan of the 1955, which is racy and fine, with

certainly love to place the Vertical Limit front

firm acidity and great depth of flavor, showing notes of candied lemon

and center in my living room. It would be a

peel, buttered toast, fresh hazelnuts and wild mushrooms. This style is

shame to consign such a wonderful piece to the

great with food, and the ’55 would be fantastic with a perfectly cooked

wine cellar. Unless, of course, one spends a lot

Dover Sole with black truffles.

of time in the wine cellar!

The 1969, though, is also particularly seductive. This was a hot year that has now evolved into a very rich, very exotic wine with tropical notes

What type of attention and reception has the

of passion fruit, lychee, and orgeat on the nose, and very rich and silky

collection garnered from champagne experts,

feel on the palate. Champagnes from a hot year are often best by them-

the world over?

selves as an aperitif.

The Vertical Limit garnered extensive coverage on the internet, especially on design

How many of these vintages are available in magnums, besides being

blogs and the site coolhunting.com. The only

offered in Vertical Limit?

other market to launch to date, however, has

Production of magnums is very limited, and there are certainly not

been the UK, so Veuve Clicquot hasn’t done

enormous quantities of older vintages in the cellars, although small

an official trade launch, presenting these to

amounts of the current vintage can sometimes be procured.

champagne experts, particularly since the quantities available are so limited.

Are each of these vintages ready to drink right now, or are some of them better suited to be saved and aged for a greater period of time?

We ran into one issue in Los Angeles – when we showed the Vertical Limit there, one

Each of these wines would be a singular experience if opened

wealthy collector attempted to buy all fifteen

today, and they have all been chosen because of the way they taste

pieces available for the entire world! Lucky for

today.

everyone else, he wasn’t successful.

This being said, each of these could also be aged for years to come, since the storage conditions are perfect, and the provenance of these wines (direct from Clicquot’s cellars) is immaculate. I think the vintages

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We Recommend...

Meals Worth a Flight

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Alinea In today’s ultra-competitive culinary landscape – it has become something of a sport in the United States, with cities playing the role of leagues, restaurants playing the teams, and celebrity chefs the highly paid athletes – it takes something a bit special, a bit different to be recognized as the number one restaurant in the country by Gourmet magazine. Alinea has done just that. Why is this a meal worth flying for?

Simply put, the food on Chef Grant Achatz’s menu is probably of the likes you have never seen. It is true that with today’s current trends of molecular gastronomy, a plethora of chefs from around the world are trying to put their stamp on particular methods and dishes.

What Grant does so well, is accomplish this feat with virtually every single one of his dishes.

But he does it subtly.

The continually changing menu is divided into two options, the tasting, which is a deconstructed amalgamation of twelve courses, or the chef’s specialty tour menu, which more than doubles the number of creations to twenty-five. With each bite, the sensations are heightened. The dishes on the menu may sound simple enough. “Trout Roe, with coconut, pineapple, and licorice.” Or perhaps “Black Truffle, explosion, romaine, parmesan.” Surely you’ve heard each of these ingredients and terms before on menus of other top-flight instiGrant Achatz is a pioneer for the way we are to look at cooking in America.

tutions, but at Alinea, there is much more than what meets the menu.

The trout roe for example, could be constructed of, or rather deconstructed of four different types of licorice, all in a different molecular state. The flavors all have a hint of familiarity, but the skill with which they are taken down to their core elements and flavors has the same effect on the tongue as when one eats Alba white truffles shaved over pasta for the first time.

The acclaim is completely deserved, and if you are lucky enough to score a table at this understated, elegant, earth-toned Chicago hideaway – even if it is months and months in advance – make sure you book a flight and make it a weekend. It’s worth it.

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The Fat Duck Everything about The Fat Duck is fun. Famed owner and chef Heston Blumenthal is fun. Its location in the in-

lecular food movement, his passion and theories translate in a much more serious way.

conspicuous Berkshire area outside of London is fun.

He views the new movement in cooking as expand-

Even the name is fun. The food is fun as well. The food

ing upon the traditions of the past. So yes, you quite

is especially fun. But at the same time, it is all very se-

possibly will be eating dishes and ingredients prepared

rious. And serious in a good way. Serious in a way that it

in ways that you previously would have not thought pos-

is certainly worth booking flight over to the UK and mak-

sible, but everything delivered from the kitchen is

ing the short pilgrimage from London to Berkshire the

rooted in the classical enjoyment of ingredients, meth-

focal point of your itinerary.

ods, and integrity.

A three Michelin star restaurant, The Fat Duck is

But paramount to what Mr. Blumenthal does is one

not ostentatious. It is actually quite plain. The simple

belief that he verbalizes better than anyone else. “Eat-

dining room does not shout “tasting menu” or give the

ing is a multi-modal process (involving all the senses).

impression that it is a setting for the type of roller-

Any comments concerning food being just about taste

coaster ride tastes you are about to embark upon. Mr.

are misguided. Try drinking a fine wine from a poly-

Blumenthal is an extremely interesting professional in

styrene cup or eating a beautifully cooked piece of fish

his own right. Instead of giving in to the commonly used

off a paper plate with a plastic knife and fork, it is not

terminology of the day, he instead says that he cooks

the same.” He will make sure that each of the seven-

with a “scientific approach.” It is true that his creations

teen courses evokes each of your five senses. And who

may seem to follow the same type of principles and

knows, quite possibly you might discover a few senses

methods used by chefs such as Wylie Dufresne, but

you didn’t know you had. The prospect of that is quite

since Chef Blumenthal was at the forefront of the mo-

certainly worth a flight.

Heston Blumenthal stresses using each of the five senses when eating.

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Spherical raviolo of peas and minty pea salad

Carrot air with bitter coconut milk

Red mullet mummy with chilli

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2m of parmesan spaghetto Cuttlefish nigri with ovarzazate spices

Coconut’s egg with mango

Spring of virgin olive oil caramel

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El Bulli El Bulli has been voted the best restaurant in the world at some point or another by virtually every culinary magazine and association in the world. It’s chef and owner, the internationally acclaimed Ferran Adrià, has garnered accolades as the best chef in the world many times over. El Bulli is an experience that truly defines dinner as theatre. From the restaurant’s picturesque setting in Roses on the Costa Brava – nearly two hours from Barcelona – to the fourhour epicurean fantasy that you will embark on, this restaurant is the definition of a meal worth a flight if there ever was one.

El Bulli, and more specifically, Mr. Adrià, have a take and perspective on food that differs in many degrees from the rest of the gastronomic world. It is only open from April to September – Mr. Adrià and his staff spend the rest of the year in a literal culinary laboratory coming up with new ideas and interpretations – and is usually booked solid one year out.

This a small price to pay for what will certainly become the most memorable dining experience of your life. Before even sitting down in the dining room, the drama will begin. Situated on a bay called Cala Montjoi, the restaurant requires a rickety cab ride over rocky roads to reach its perch. An unassuming sign guards the building, and soon you are immersed. It is built in a traditional Spanish hacienda style, and through the trees, the bay peaks out.

As phenomenal as the setting may be, it is the 27 course festival that will awake taste buds you never knew you had, and redefine what food can be. At El Bulli, what looks like an egg is probably a tomato. What appears to be ice cream quite possibly might be an interpretation Ferran Adriá spends many months of the year in his Barcelona kitchen “Laboratory” perfecting new techniques and tastes. The restaurant is only open from April through September.

of parmesan. Flavors and textures are a result of incredible amounts of work, and an understanding of the gastronomic make-up of each individual ingredient. The order in which you attack the elements of each of the tasty treasures matters, but there is nothing to worry about. The staff is as gracious, knowledgeable, and as eager to help as any in the world.

It may seem like an experience, not a meal. And it most certainly is. But alas, that’s the reason that it’s worth flying around the world to be entertained – and educated – by a master.

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