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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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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PROFILE KUSHNER:10jan
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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
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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
ANDREW SASSON:10jan
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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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itself.
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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?
136
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-
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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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Join the Club... 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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