Iconic Concierge Vancouver Winter 2017 by Iconic Concierge Magazine

SUMMER 2014

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ICONIC CONCIERGE

publisher’s LETTER

moving jets ... no, really, that’s exactly what we did! moving a $20m jet around for our cover picture. a team of around 16, including our photographer todd duncan and his assistant, dan lok’s team, airport personnel and us. in a freezing cold hangar at the airport. welcome to the third edition of iconic concierge vancouver, and a happy new year to all of you. we have a good feeling that 2017 will be amazing. the italian luxury brand stefano ricci just opened their first free-standing canadian store on west georgia street, we just got the news that swiss watch-brand hublot will open a store on alberni st, we will see the van cleef & arpels nameplate on a large store in the same neighbourhood, and cult porsche re-imaginer ‘singer vehicle design’ have their own vancouver representation now, too. quite the indicators that the future is bright for business in our city.

olaf robrecht publisher olaf@iconic-concierge.com

we are also happy to announce that you can get the magazine at several locations in whistler and in the okanagan, and should you live outside vancouver you can join our readers in mexico, the us and even europe who get their copy in the mail. just contact us to find out more. also - if you would like copies for your clients and customers, or if you have suggestions for new distribution locations, just let us know! enjoy the magazine!

working with the best ... It makes all the difference - to work with the best. From writers to photographers, it is passion and creativity that stands out. And pride. At Iconic Concierge we are working with several photographers, all of them a pro in their field. They are specializied in portraits, in automotive photography, in fashion photography; they are telling stories through images, they create and develop a message. It is fascinating to see them work and quite often become part of the photo shoot, and then see the result on the screen and finally in print. Thank you guys, we love working with you!

ICONIC CONCIERGE

vol. 3 [2017]

www.iconic-concierge.com

Dan Lok by Todd Duncan

PUBLISHER:

OLAF ROBRECHT olaf@iconic-concierge.com

AUTOMOTIVE EDITOR: FASHION EDITOR: WINE EDITOR: FOOD & BEVERAGE EDITOR: CONTRIBUTING WRITERS:

PHOTOGRAPHY:

COPY EDITOR:

ROBBIE DICKSON JASON SARAI BARRY MCNABB KEITH TRUSLER JASON BOUDREAU, ALLIE HENDERSON, KEVIN ENGLUND, JESSE DEAN COOK, MIKE STRAUS, CRAIG STOWE, DR. CHRISTIAN BRIX TODD DUNCAN, TAVISH KELPIN, CAITLYN VAN NICE, KEVIN UY MIKE STRAUS

DESIGN/ LAYOUT:

YADA-YADA MEDIA

ADVERTISING SALES:

ALLIE HENDERSON allie@iconic-concierge.com

iconic_concierge Iconic Concierge is published by

Printed in Canada.

All rights reserved. No part of Iconic Concierge Magazine may be reproduced or transmitted in any form without the expressed written consent of the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject any editorial or advertising material. The views expressed in Iconic Concierge are those of the respective contributors and not necessarily those of the publisher or staff. Although all reasonable attempts are made to ensure accuracy, the publishers do not assume any liability for errors or omissions anywhere in the publication or on the website. Iconic Concierge reserves the rights to ads produced for advertisers.

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dreamT E A M

OLAF ROBRECHT publisher

An entrepreneur who is always on the lookout for new projects he is passionate about, Olaf has run several businesses since he came to Canada 16 years ago. These days you will find lifestyle and car magazines as well as a design & marketing company connected to his name, although he might be better known for his little collection of spirited automobiles.

ROBBIE DICKSON chief gear head

Born in England, Robbie is a selfstyled entrepreneur with a passion for exotic cars, boats and watches. He owned pretty much every car you can imagine although he still calls a Lotus Elise he once owned his favourite. Tracked extensively, Robbie claims it was “the most affordable fun you can have with your clothes on ...”

JASON SARAI

bespoke stylist & fashion editor When Jason found the world of bespoke suiting and styling, he had little choice but to turn it from a passion project into his life’s work with Style by Sarai. He has gone from being fashion advisor for family and friends, to the trusted bespoke stylist for professionals and grooms-to-be, by enhancing their confidence and helping them become their own style icon.

KEVIN UY

automotive photography A self-described petrolhead and horologie addict, Kevin combines a passion for automotives, nature and design to create vivid imagery for private and corporate clients. He has worked on local and national projects across Canada and is known for an almost surreal touch to his images, using the best of natural, ambient and artificial lighting.

JESSE DEAN COOK luxury real estate specialist Having worked as a Global Executive for a multi-billion dollar corporation, Jesse has a decade of international business experience and is now one of the top luxury real estate agents based in West Vancouver. He truly cherishes the relationship he has with his clients, helping them navigate the process of selling and buying their spectacular residential properties.

ICONIC CONCIERGE

ALLIE HENDERSON

advertising

Allie is the only Lady in our Gentlemen’s magazine team. The former professional freestyle motocross racer is now a successful entrepreneur, running her own company “Temple Foods” and promoting and coordinating car related events. “These guys simply needed a woman on their team, how else would things happen otherwise?”

BARRY McNABB wine expert

It was a bottle of 1989 Robert Mondavi Reserve Cabernet that changed his life. That was in 1990. The addiction to wine was set. And the journey to know everything and anything about wine. Today, after many travels to all notable wine regions in the world, Barry has a broad knowledge of the nuanced interplay between food and wine.

CRAIG STOWE luxury events

Craig is recognized as Vancouver’s #1 creator and producer of luxury events bringing together affluent buyers, sellers and luxury brands in an engaging business and social setting. He is the president of the Luxury Alliance Group, founder and president of Luxury & Supercar Weekend and the co-founder and president of the Diamond Rally.

KEITH TRUSLER

imbibing authority The Brand Ambassador for The Glenlivet and Aberlour for several years now, Keith is a veteran of the restaurant industry in Vancouver and has extensive experience as a bartender, mixologist and chef. As a Connoisseur of single malt whisky he tirelessly pursues the finest dining and imbibing experiences the city has to offer.

JASON BOUDREAU CFP, CLU wealth advisor As the founder of VELA Wealth, Jason is fuelled by watching clients fulfill their vision of life success for their family, community and legacy. Focusing on inter-generational wealth transfer, life insurance, legacy and estate planning, he advises successful entrepreneurial families on how to make meaningful choices at the intersection of their life and their wealth.

ICONIC CONCIERGE

CONTENTS COVER

FEATURES

AUTOMOTIVE

Dan Lok

Masterpieces of Horology

The King Of His Court

The Next Chapter

The 2017 Aston Martin DB11

Architects Du Temps

The Million Dollar Watch Manufacture Royale Opera

COLUMNS

Publisher’s Letter

The Specter Journal You Want This!

Financials

Charitable Giving and the Business Owner

The Gentleman

They Should Have Taught You This In School

The Dapper Gent Skin Care Products

Real Estate

Winds of Change?

Ask The ... Concierge Jarren McDougall, Shangri-La

EVENTS

Rolex Boutique Grand Opening

Glashütte Original

Unfolding Mythology

The Ultimate Ferrari Collection

The Most Wanted Man

The Aspiring Modern Spy Gentleman

Ultimate Ferrari Collection

2017 Genesis G90

Bentley Bentayga & AMG G65

BMW Motorrad Vision Next100

New Motorcycles

WATERCRAFT

Bentley Bentayga vs AMG G65

Pitti Uomo

WIDER 150

Fashion the Italian Way

Here Comes The Rain An Umbrella Guide

Imperial Reign

The $185k Aevum Service Ritual

AVIATION

The Aerion AS2

Bell 525 Helicopter

PERSONALITIES

Dan Lok

The King Of His Court

DESTINATIONS

Sri Lanka & The Maldives

Enchanting Paradise

Elliot Mashford Eagle Energy Vapor

IMBIBE

Iconic Cocktails The David Brown

Vinoteque

ICONIC CONCIERGE

2017 Aston Martin DB11

Head2Head

Fine Watchmaking Cartier Vancouver

A View To A Kill 007 Tribute Party

/ winter 2017 /

ART

Jason Dussault Shattered!

CONTENTS

23 42

64 76 ICONIC CONCIERGE

man about town GRAND OPENING RECEPTION ROLEX BOUTIQUE

Vancouver is now home of North America’s largest Rolex boutique. On Thursday, October 27th, Sassan Pourfar of the Vancouverbased Global Watch Company (GWC), cut the ribbon to officially open the 2,750-square-foot space in the Shangri-La Hotel at 1119 Alberni Street. Paying homage to the Rolex Oyster, the company’s first waterproof wristwatch designed in 1926, the boutique’s interior is “inspired by water and the sea” with a wall of illuminated laser-etched Aqua glass, leather furnishings, and bronze accents. We hear that much of the store’s millwork was manufactured in Switzerland under Rolex’s strict retail design guidelines. The store is in some good company , joining brands like DeBeers, Escada, Prada, Burberry, Saint Laurent, Moncler, Versace, Brunello Cucinelli, Strellson, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Tiffany & Co., Louis Vuitton, and Hermes on what is known as Vancouver’s “luxury row”. 1) Victor Royce (President Rolex Canada), Sassan Pourfar (President GWC Rolex Boutique), Luca Bronsky (New President Rolex Canada) 2) Ellen Tsai (Rolex Canada), Stefan Slamming (Obrist), Emmy Kwok (Rolex Canada) 3) Fiona Qiao (GWC) with clients 4) Jason Sarai (Style by Sarai), Sassan Pourfar (GWC Rolex Boutique), Olaf Robrecht (Concierge Magazine) 5) Jim Beadle (Beadle Raven LLP), Victor Royce (Rolex Canada), Sassan Pourfar (GWC Rolex Boutique) 6) Tamara Zadorojnaya, Vladimir Zadorojnyi, Yulia Lis, Dimitri Zadorojnyi

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1770 Burrard Street Vancouver, BC V6J 3G7 Canada For information call 604-730-8998 or visit bentleyvancouver.ca The name ‘Bentley’ and the ‘B’ in wings device are registered trademarks. © 2016 Bentley Motors, Inc. Model shown: Bentayga.

Architectes du Temps Modern Masterpieces Of Horology To many a watch is just a watch, a device that will tell you the time. “A watch is obsolete” is something we will also hear once in a while - and yes, the mechanical timepiece has been surpassed by quartz, atomic movements and lately by our cellphones. But today, we no longer use our mechanical timepieces to actually tell time. No, these days a watch is more fashion or artwork than a time measurement device. It is this fundamental shift in the purpose of the watch that created a movement of aficionados - people who celebrate a piece of high-end engineering where utmost precision and concentration from both machines and men come together to produce a fine mechanical timepiece. Watchmaking has always been a scientific endeavour, but it has also always been mixed with art forms, with the end goal of producing exclusive items for the elite. Today, many may think that high-end watches are perhaps more art than innovation, which is why antique watches often reach astronomical prices at auctions. But many modern masterpieces are rarer than, and at least as artistically made as, those of old. Today’s manufacturers, unlike the old masters, make every part themselves, with more complications than any of the old watches. Therefore it comes as no surprise that they can’t produce large

quantities, making their timepieces comparatively rarer than those of old. Time definitely does not stand still in this industry, as is clearly evident in new innovations like the introduction of silicon parts, magnets, and the co-axial escapement. Yes, there is life in a mechanical timepiece and that life is evolving. Few watch companies are capable of creating and developing the most exclusive and complex of watch movements, and the ability to do so is what makes one an architect of time. Here are just some of their finest masterpieces.

JAQUET DROZ CHARMING BIRD The Charming Bird includes a tiny automaton bird inside the crystal, that sings and dances at the press of a button. It commemorates the 275th anniversary of Jaquet Droz (founded in 1738), who created three of the most advanced humanoid automatons of the 18th century. US$500,000.

ICONIC CONCIERGE

Architects Du Temps

JEAN DUNAND SHABAKA The art deco Egyptian styling of the Shabaka belies an astonishing feat of micro-engineering including a minute repeater with cathedral gongs and an instantaneous perpetual calendar with an ingenious display of day, date, month, moon phases and leap-year cycle. With every piece being completely unique prices start at around US$495,000.

MAITRES DU TEMPS CHAPTER ONE This masterpiece with its see-through dial uses an extremely complex movement with a tourbillon, monopusher chronograph, date and GMT, as well as moon phase and day indicators displayed on special rollers placed between the lugs of the watch. Composed of 558 components and bridges with hand-beveled edges and beautiful perlage (circular graining) decorations, the price is US$540,000.

HYT H3 SQUARE

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LOUIS MONET DERRICK GAZ The Ateliers that bear the name of the man who invented the chronograph in 1816 fitted this masterpiece with an expansive tourbillon, one of Louis Moinetâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s distinctive hallmarks. A rather playful touch is that it traces the passage of gas from the derrick on the left to the storage tank on the right.At the centre of the derrick there is a drill that rotates continuously, one revolution every two-and-a-half seconds. And the manometer is used to indicate the 72-hour power reserve. Available in two versions (both limited to 28 watches), rose gold with black dial, and white gold with blue dial. US$295,000.

Architects Du Temps

ROMAIN JEROME TITANIC-DNA The Romain Jerome Titanic-DNA Steampunk Chrono comes with an outer bezel of oxidised and rusted metal taken from the wreck of the Titanic, lying 3,840 metres beneath the ocean. The self-winding RJ001-CS automatic chronograph movement in this 50mm watch is made up of over 330 parts and is held by four large screwed pistons. It has a 42-hour power reserve. The price to own a slice of high-end Titanic memorabilia - US$32,400.

MILUS TIRION With the minute repetition complication, combined with a date indication and the fascinating play of the TriRetrograde seconds display, the Milus TIRION RĂŠpĂŠtition Minutes TriRetrograde offers an experience of the highest acoustic, creative and technical quality. Released in a limited edition of 50 pieces, the18K red gold watch is (est.) US$250,000.

CHRISTOPHE CLARET DUALTOW NIGHTEAGLE Limited to 68 pieces, the DualTow NightEagle uses two moving belts to tell time. One of the most innovative and skillful manufacturers in the watch industry, Claret got the inspiration from the F-117 Night Hawk fighter and the Lamborghini Reventon supercar. The belts are driven by cylinders on either end, the sides of which were inspired by racing car wheel rims. The movement consists of 574 components, including 65 jewels and 8 ball-bearings. US$595,000.

CORUM GOLDEN BRIDGE This iconic watch has an automatic linear-winding baguette movement designed to have all the parts stack up in a column-like shape. The 194part caliber beats at a frequency of 4 Hz (28,800 vibrations per hour) and is endowed with a 40-hour power reserve. Instead of using a traditional rotor Corum uses a 4 gram platinum weight that has a 1-centimeter range of linear motion as the energy source. Released in a limited edition of 200 pieces, this horological masterpiece will set you back appr. US$62,000.

ICONIC CONCIERGE

THE MILLION DOLLAR WATCH

Manufacture Royale Opera Minute Repeater Tourbillon words by Kevin Englund

Voltaire famously said that “The ear is the avenue to the heart”, and it is with these great words we look at the exquisite works being produced by the re-incarnation of his original horological manufacturer, Manufacture Royale – Opera. Hand crafted in Vallorbe in the Swiss Jura by an in-house research and development team, this minute repeater tourbillon was born out of a true family love of haute horology. This is clearly evident in the Opera, which sets the minute repeater function in an elaborate articulating case. This design element creates an echo chamber that allows the twotone minute repeater (yes that is correct two tone, the hour strikes on the A note while the minute is C sharp) to reach your ear with a resoundingly clear chime. The creativity and elegance of the design is also evident when you realize the articulation of the case clearly represents the bellows of a grand organ. Constructed of 18K gold with options for rose gold and white gold combinations, the case is exquisite in every detail, down to the hand polished crown bearing the manufacture’s logo. At 50mm, the Opera is fitted with an 18K gold pin-buckle and rolled edged alligator leather strap to hold the grandeur of this masterful timepiece firmly on the wrist. Even more intricate and impressive than the case is the movement itself: A mechanical hand-wound, in-house calibre MR01. With 319 individual components and 29 jewels, entirely hand decorated with perlage and sunray finish, the calibre is visible through the skeletonized dial face and through the caseback. The caseback, which has two additional sapphire crystals, can be opened to view inside the bellows. Not to be ignored is the tourbillon itself, a marvel in horology. Set at the 5 o’clock position, the tourbillon cradles the escapement, seamlessly rotating on axis at one rotation per minute. With a power reserve of 108 hours, you will not be in want of winding, though it will take quite some time to run the reserve down. The sonorous crescendo of an exquisite virtuoso, this is the sound of a masterpiece in haute horology. An intricate complication, with mechanical wonder, infusing old world aesthetic with innovation and technology, merged perfectly. Could this work of art – with only 12 pieces ever constructed and a price of 1.2 million dollars - be the magnum opus for Manufacture Royale, or simply the beginning of a grand opera?

ICONIC CONCIERGE

The Four Pillars of

The German Watch Museum Glashütte takes pride of place in the centre of Glashütte. Inaugurated May 22, 2008, the museum is the brainchild of Nicolas G. Hayek, whose non-profit foundation is dedicated to matters of art, culture, science, research and education in the field of watchmaking.

words by Kevin Englund

Since 1994, Glashütte Original has paid grand tribute to its illustrious heritage with a manufacturing philosophy rooted deep in the culture of the city of Glashütte. The city, that formed the beating heart of the Saxon watchmaking industry when the first watch manufacture was founded in 1845, has been a mecca for horologists for almost two centuries. Not only did this community house the epicenter for German watch manufacturing it became the education center for many of the world’s top watchmakers including a young man named Alfred Helwig. Alfred, whose name the Glashütte school of watchmaking (owned and operated by Glashütte Original) now bears, can only be described as an icon of German Horology. Educated at the German school of watchmaking, Glashütte, at which he was later a professor, Alfred was responsible for volumes of reference materials. But none of his writings or his teachings compare to his gift to watchmaking history, the Flying Tourbillon, the premier discovery of the time. Beginning with Art Technik, Glashütte Original offers tribute to the mastery of Alfred Helwig and high horology with their limited edition Flying Tourbillon. The Grande Cosmopolite is a shining example of this magnificent mechanical wonder. Limited to just

ICONIC CONCIERGE

25 pieces worldwide this remarkable timepiece arrives housed in a display case made from peat bog oak and a stainless steel globe, it is a presence to behold even before it is on your wrist. Features include 37 time zones from which any two can be set on the dial indicators while accounting for Daylight savings or Standard time. Home to a perpetual calendar with day, month, leap year and panorama date day/night indicator, power reserve display (on movement side), exquisitely finished movement, bevelled edges, polished and brushed steel parts, screwed gold chatons, blued screws, Breguet spring, wheel-train bridge with Glashütte ribbed finish, winding wheels with double sun burst decoration.

Adorned by a silver-grained, 18 karat gold dial and framed by milled black Roman numerals and railroad chapter ring. The back of the 48mm platinum case frames an antireflective sapphire crystal offering a clear view of this most complicated of manually wound movements, the Glashütte Original manufactory Calibre 89-01 with more than 500 components. The base plate features characteristic Glashütte ribbing, screw-mounted gold chatons, winding wheels and the 72-hour power reserve display. The case back is protected by a platinum hunter case fitted with a time zone graphic representing each with a three-letter IATA airport code. The masterpiece is fitted with a black Louisiana alligator strap and fold-over clasp in platinum.

Masterpiece Grande Cosmopolite Tourbillon Case Material: Platinum Height: 16 mm Waterproof: up to - 5 ATM Glass – Sapphire crystal, anti-reflective on both sides Bottom: Sapphire crystal, officer’s case back with engraved time zones Calibre: Manual winding movement, Calibre 89-01 Dimensions: Diameter 39.2 mm, Height 7.5 mm Power Reserve: 72h Jewels: 70 and 2 diamond end stones Balance: screw balance with 18 weighted screws in the tourbillon carriage, one revolution per minute

Grande Cosmopolite Tourbillon

Senator

Seventies

Lady Collection

The Quintessential, Senator Chronometer Regulator, is a tribute to Glashütte heritage, the Senator presents with clean lines, elements reflecting a classic minimalist restraint.

The retro vibe of the 20th Century Vintage is elegantly represented by the Seventies Chronograph Panorama Date, a conscious reference to outstanding design.

For those who have a love affair with jewels the Ladies Collection serves to entice with the PanoMatic Luna a timepiece for self-assured elegant women, who know their worth...

Calibre: Manual winding, 58-04 Functions: Hour, second (off-centre), minute (centre), second stop & reset function with minute detent, Panorama Date, day/night indicator, regulator, power reserve display Case: 18ct white gold, crown w/ double-G logo, sapphire crystals on top & bottom, screwed case back, waterproof -5 ATM Dimensions: 42mm, h: 12.47mm Dial: varnished silver-grain w/ black Roman numerals, railroad chapter ring, blued hands Strap: Alligator leather w/ 18ct white gold fold fastener

Calibre: 37-02 integrated chronograph movement Functions: Central stop seconds hand, 30 minute and 12 hour counters with flyback mechanism; small seconds counter with power reserve indicator (70 hours) Case: Soft cornered square stainless steel case and bezel Dimensions: 40mm x 40mm Dials: Galvanized ruthenium, silver or blue Straps: Stainless Steel, Leather, Rubber

Calibre: Automatic movement, Calibre 90-12 Functions: Hour, minute, small second (off-centre), second stop, Panorama Date, Moon Phase Case: Stainless steel, bezel set with 64 diamonds, crown with diamond, 0.96 ct, sapphire crystals on top and bottom, screwed case back, waterproof up to 3 ATM Dimensions: 39.4 mm, height 12mm Dial: Light-coloured mother-of-pearl dial with 18 diamonds, 0.042 ct, hands made of white gold Strap: Rubber strap with buckle made of stainless steel

ICONIC CONCIERGE

DAN LOK

THE

KING OF HIS COURT

“The world of business has changed and continues to change dramatically and rapidly. Today’s consumers buy differently, so today’s entrepreneurs must sell differently. Stop selling products and services. Instead, get into the business of selling trust.” words by Mike Straus

photography by Todd Duncan

Dan Lok’s journey from bankrupt to bankroll is proof of what resilience, smart business decisions, and the right mentality can do, even if you start with nothing. The media calls Dan Lok the king of highticket sales. The 34-year-old serial entrepreneur is a highly sought after luxury brand consultant, a prolific author with over a dozen books to his name, and a worldclass speaker who has shared the stage with the likes of Jack Canfield, George Forman, and Robert Kiyosaki.

Lok’s consulting clients pay up to six figures to work with him, coming from as far away as New Zealand, China, and the United Kingdom. But Lok wasn’t born with a silver spoon in his mouth – he built his business on sweat equity, and not before enduring several business failures in his twenties.

An only child, he was forced to drop out of college to provide for his mother when his parents divorced. “I wasn’t particularly ambitious, and I didn’t have any direction or goals,” Lok says. “But when my parents got divorced, I learned to be self-reliant. That moment gave me a direction and a purpose. It forced me into business. I couldn’t

ICONIC CONCIERGE

“Marketing is nothing more than establishing preeminent position in your marketplace, and then re-enforcing that position over and over again.” provide for my mom by working at a job. That’s when I turned to this Type-A superachiever mentality.” Lok and his mother shared a one-bedroom apartment in Surrey, surviving off leftover bakery bread and produce from the grocery store’s “nearly expired” section. It’s this experience that motivated Lok to start a business, because he never again wanted to know poverty.

“If I got a job, I’d work for 40 years and never pay off my debt. I didn’t have a choice – I had to keep going. But this is the great thing about business: You can fail 13 times, but if you make it the 14th time, then you’re set.” It’s then that Lok decided to change his concept of success. Lok’s upbringing meant that he wasn’t comfortable with success, and he knew that a mindset change would be necessary to continue growing his business. Lok says he did that by immersing himself in the luxury environment. The Pan Pacific lobby became his de facto office. He started taking limousines to the airport instead of cabs. He bought a brand new Mazda RX-8 – his first dream car – as a self-actualization exercise. And when the salesman tried to convince him to save money by removing unnecessary features, he insisted on the fully loaded package. “Most people don’t understand how affluent clients think or why they buy. But over the years, I’ve programmed myself to know how my audience thinks and what they want. That’s why I sell well in the high-ticket space.”

“I was driving a Ford with 150,000 miles on it. My mom and I would go to a local bakery once a week about an hour before closing, and get a ton of bread for just a few bucks. I thought, ‘this isn’t living’ – and I made a promise to myself that I never wanted to live like that again.”

Today, Lok’s business portfolio includes Charm Junction, which was named Canada Post’s Online Retailer of the Year in 2012, as well as an Internet marketing consultancy and a mastermind group for Vancouver entrepreneurs. Collectively, his 21 businesses have sold over $50 million in products and services. Lok has spoken at dozens of events – including two Tedx conferences - and has authored 12 best-selling books.

Lok’s drive to escape poverty pushed him to build his business at any cost. While his college friends were watching sports, chasing women, and drinking hard, Lok was working to build a better life for his family.

He also maintains a blog, a podcast and a YouTube channel – all designed to help entrepreneurs enter the luxury space and master the art of high-ticket sales.

“I didn’t take a single day off for my first five years in business, and I was working 14-hour days. That’s the price I paid, and I’m glad I paid it early. I have a lot more freedom now. Nowadays, people say I have the Midas touch. But I say, ‘you should’ve seen me 10 years ago when everything I touched turned to crap.’”

His motivation for all of this?

Lok quickly cycled through 13 different businesses, all of which failed for one reason or another. Computer repair, software programming, mail orders, vending machine sales, multilevel marketing – nothing worked.

Lok’s philosophy is that none of us are getting any younger, and therefore entrepreneurs need to fervently pursue their dreams as if they had mere days left to live.

But then, Lok found a business mentor and experienced his first business success. Lok quickly scaled his small copywriting operation up to a six-figure business when he was just 22 years old, and suddenly the shy kid who had arrived in Canada without knowing a word of English was writing sales letters for $2,000 apiece. But it still wasn’t enough. After 13 business failures, Lok’s credit cards were maxed out, he owed money to family and friends, and he was over $150,000 in debt. Now

that he’d found success in the marketing industry, Lok was committed to seeing things through.

ICONIC CONCIERGE

The looming specter of death. (In the Sylvia Plath/ Fight Club/ “Technically we all start dying the moment we’re born“ sense, that is.)

Says Lok: “Let’s say I’ve got another 30 years left. That’s not enough time. I’m going to waste one third of that sleeping and another third of it eating. That means I’ve got maybe 10 solid years to do what I want to do. If that doesn’t give you a sense of urgency, I don’t know what does.”

To find out more about Dan Lok, or if you think you or your brand might benefit from consulting with Dan, visit www.danlok.com or subscribe to his YouTube Channel at: www.youtube.com/danlok

“Selling successfully to the affluent begins with getting into the affluent mind.” - Dan Lok

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man about town CARTIER VANCOUVER FINE WATCHMAKING EVENT HOSTED BY VELA WEALTH

1 On November 22nd, VELA Wealth Management held a private event inviting guests to Cartier Vancouver to explore their Fine Watchmaking Collection. The evening was hosted by Jason Boudreau, Principal, VELA Wealth Management in conjunction with Yvonne Hayward, Director, Cartier Vancouver and Nancy Williams, Regional Director, Cartier Canada. As their special guest, watchmaker Ruben Feltyniak flew in from the Richemont Technical Centre in Dallas, USA and spent the evening showcasing the intricate and meticulous work required to put together each Cartier time piece. Held just in time for the holiday season, guests spent the evening exploring Cartier collections, speaking with the watchmaker and enjoying nibbles provided by Glowbal Group. The event also partnered with Clearly Prepared to raise funds to create emergency kits for distribution this winter directly to the homeless throughout Vancouver. The event raised enough for 175 kits, distributed personally by the Boudreau family and their friends. 1) Carissa and Jason Boudreau, Nancy Williams 2) Jason Boudreau, Todd Talbot 3) Sharad and Nisha Khare 4) Dolores Buttjes, Harman Mangat 5) Rebecca Talbot 6) Rahim Rajwani, Jason Sarai 7) Maya Garcia 8) Eva Tone 9) Lori Massini, Nisha Khare 10) Jason Boudreau 11) Riaz Meghji 12) Olaf Robrecht, Nancy Williams 13) Michelle King 14) Yvonne Hayward, Lori Massini, Riaz Meghji 15) Andrew Tone, Jason Boudreau 16) Kat Rajwani 17) Jason Sarai 18) Ruben Feltyniak 19) Neesha Hothi, Nisha Dhaliwal-Grewal 20) Tak Yukawa, Soni Mand, Amrit Baidwan

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20 ICONIC CONCIERGE

Lamborghini Soundbar â&#x20AC;&#x153;Not designed for all, but aimed at those who nurture a real passion for Lamborghini.â&#x20AC;? Ixoost Artistic Audio have taken original Lamborghini Aventador exhaust components and crafted it into a stunning looking soundbar. Inside the carbon fiber and wood housing are unit which has Bluetooth 4.0 (and RCA) connectivity are two 1-inch tweeters, two full-range 6.5-inch drivers, two 8-inch woofers, and one 15-inch subwoofer. Available in four fashionable colours: black, red, orange and yellow. US$24,000.

Cubic Jellyfish Aquarium Jellyfish are among the strangest and most fascinating organisms in our oceans, and with this stylish aquarium you can experience the wonders of the underwater world. The Pulse 160 can house a large variety of jellyfish species which look amazing under its LED lighting system. The 174 Litres (46 gallon) aquarium is perfect for commercial locations but its simple to maintain filtration system also makes it suitable for keeping jellyfish at home. US$3,299.

AeroBull HD

Hiper Sub 2 Submarine

Available in white, red and matt black, the AeroBull HD is a 120-Watt beast when it comes to making music, blasting out crystalline aerial sound with deep bass through a sophisticated 2.1 system. Connect it to any smartphone through Lightning dock, Bluetooth or use the 3.5 mm Line-in to any audio source in your media suite. C$2,999.00.

Are you in the market for a new submarine? And have around US$1m to spend? Dutch submersible vendor U-Boat Worx have a new undersea craft rolling and descending vertically, hovering above the seabed in the comfort of a fully pressurised hull capable of three times the speed of conventional subs. Just 136cm high, with a 6.6 sq m footprint, and a weight of 2,200kg, it has a depth rating of 100 meter.

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Avettore Table

Tennis Table

This jet-inspired table tennis table can transform to a chic dining table or an additional billiard unit. Created by 11 Ravens in Los Angeles, the customizable luxury table is available in numerous color and material combinations, including black leather and lucite. And outdoor version is is dressed in teak and features marine finishes. US$26,000 to US$48,000.

Montegrappa Grappa Pen Both the historic traditions of grappa distilling and the aesthetic of steampunk have inspired and influenced the design of the latest addition to Montegrappa’s Cult collection. Limited to only 1,912 fountain pens, the materials used, reminiscent of the distilling vessels, include Stainless Steel, Brass and Copper for the cap and barrel, and a disk of the same cork used in Grappa bottle tops, inserted into the top of the pen cap. The packaging of the pen is almost as much of a work of art as the pen itself – a blown glass bottle with a large globe base, made by local artisans. C$3,995. Atkinson’s, 1501 W 6th, www.atkinsons.ca

Libeskind Swarovski Chess When art imitates life; architect Daniel Libeskind‘s championship-size chess set is an ode to the cityscapes of Milan and New York and some of Libeskind’s most iconic buildings. With mixed materials such as concrete, marble, aluminium, silver and Swarovski crystal, this playful piece is meant for interaction and conversation. Price on request. www.atelierswarovski.com

Whaletone Royal Digital Created by Robert Majkut, the Whaletone Royal Digital is a bespoke musical instrument, a grand piano, a unique combination of an original design and advanced technology that caters for the taste of both design lovers, and professional musicians. It boasts a built-in Roland sound processor with numerous natural-sounding piano choices, including those from vintage models of the mid to late 20th century. The electrically-lifted hood that rises at the push of a button reveals the piano’s five speakers. Made to order starting at around US$100,000.

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Just when you thought you had it allâ&#x20AC;Ś introducing the power of ONE.

Experience the power of the all-electric SOLO. A car that is as individual as YOU. electrameccanica.com

Charitable Giving and the Business Owner: Phase Two How to Create a Lasting Legacy that will Live on Through the Generations by Jason Boudreau

We previously introduced you to the Anderson’s, a successful business family with aspirations to create a meaningful legacy. As part of their tax and estate planning, we incorporated charitable giving and life insurance to both achieve these aspirations and help offset the taxes they would owe in their estate. Secondly, we are going to implement a permanent life insurance strategy, similar to John and Barb’s, for each of the children and grandchildren. At first, John and Barb were a little confused about why they would do this as most people really do not think about implementing life insurance for their children and grandchildren. However, in the context of cascading and continuity planning, it is the natural evolution of the family planning, given what John and Barb have just done themselves. These policies will be owned by the family holding company and there are significant benefits to getting a head start on them for generation two and three. THE VISION Now that John and Barb have set themselves up well, it’s time to shift the focus to ‘phase two’ of the planning, their children and grandchildren. One of the common themes we discuss with clients is that of ‘cascading planning’. If you think of a waterfall or a stream cascading downward from its source to its ultimate destination, you can get a feel for what we mean. Cascading planning involves looking at multiple generations and focusing on ‘continuity’. This is how a family can truly create a lasting legacy. In this second phase of planning for the Anderson family, we are helping them to get a head start on the planning that we know their children and grandchildren will eventually have to do and, in the context of their family’s legacy, would certainly want to do. THE PLAN To help execute on this planning, we will look at two key areas; Firstly, we will review if all of the children (who are married with their own children) have up-to-date wills. These wills should not only outline the usual pieces of guardianship and distribution of assets, but also the family’s charitable legacy wishes. Wills are some of the most, if not the most, important documents we can have, given that they ‘speak for us when we can no longer speak’. Just as John and Barb have outlined their philanthropic wishes in their own wills, so too should their children. This will help ensure the continuity of the family legacy for generations to come.

Cost. Given that the heirs are much younger, the insurance premiums will be much less for the same, or potentially greater, long-term benefits. Living Benefits. Within the policy, there is a tax-sheltered investment component called a cash value. Every year, the cash value (and the death benefit) grow through the reinvestment of what are called ‘policyholder dividends’. This growth occurs on a tax- sheltered basis and during their lifetime, the children and grandchildren can access these funds for any purpose, such as university tuition, purchasing a home, expanding the family business or even making charitable contributions. THE RESULTS Eventually, when they reach their life expectancy, John and Barb’s children will have these policies to help execute their own estate planning. Through the direction in their wills and as it was for their parents, there will be a donation(s) made utilizing the insurance, helping to offset or even eliminate the capital gains tax in their estate. This helps to ensure that there is continuity of the wealth that the family has worked so hard to build and, equally as important, that the legacy that John and Barb created for the Anderson family will now be stewarded by their grandchildren. This is how families create meaningful legacies that live on for generations. *Names and identifying details have been changed to protect the privacy of individuals.

Jason Boudreau CFP, CLU Wealth Advisor Principal & Founder - VELA Wealth Management www.velawealth.com

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The first product launched under the company’s ‘Second Century’ plan, DB11 is the bold new figurehead of the illustrious ‘DB’ bloodline and an authentic, dynamic sporting GT in the finest Aston Martin tradition.

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THE NEXT CHAPTER The 2017 Aston Martin DB11 words: Robbie Dickson photography: Kevin Uy

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THE DB11 is the most powerful, most efficient and most dynamically gifted DB model in Aston Martin’s history.

e’re all bound to have varying opinions on which Bond is the best, but one common point of agreement for all 007 fans is that our favourite British spy certainly had great taste in cars.

All of the Bond cars had merit. They were fast, sexy, and fully loaded with cool spy toys and hidden features. And the effortless design of each car made watching Bond save the world a whole lot more fun. It’s nearly impossible to write about an Aston Martin and not mention 007. Aston Martin and Bond go together like Sean Connery and Ursula Andress. It’s the Bond movies that have given Aston Martin its unique luxury charm and unparalleled visceral appeal.

Aston Martin DB5 (1963-1965). Often billed as the “most famous car in the world”, James Bond’s gadget laden Silver Birch DB5 in Goldfinger became every schoolboy’s dream. Regarded by many as the most beautiful Aston Martin produced, it was an evolution of the final series of DB4.

“But then we’d need to change his name to Jenny Bond”

“Apart from that Lagonda four-door piece of crap”

Aston Martin’s joint history with James Bond begins with the DB5. First appearing in Goldfinger, the iconic luxury car later returned as Sean Connery’s spymobile in the 1965 blockbuster Bond film Thunderball. And ever since, Bond and Aston Martin have been nearly synonymous. Of the 24 Bond films in existence, Aston Martin cars have been featured in 12.

The DB10 was a magnificent car. It was classic Aston, and out of all the Sports/Supercar manufacturers, Aston Martin have never made an ugly car (well, apart from that Lagonda four-door piece of crap they produced 645 units of in 1976, or more recently the Cygnet smart car looking thing with 150 made between 2010 to 2013. But I’m pretty sure Aston did this deliberately to make the other manufacturers feel better about the junk they were producing. Good for you Aston, very noble of you.)

Let’s be honest - can you imagine a 007 movie without Bond driving an Aston? Remember Brosnan in the BMW? You wish you didn’t. I challenge you to think of another car Bond could possibly look good in. A Ferrari California? But then we would need to change his name to Jenny Bond.

All in all, the DB10 was the car we thought would end up as the DB9 replacement. But it’s the DB11 that truly steals the show. Introduced after Spectre, the DB11 looks far better than the DB10, and has the engine specs to back up its status as the newest (and therefore best) Bond car. I had the pleasure of driving the DB11 for a day, courtesy of Aston Martin of Vancouver. And let me say it is very impressive, and for $300k-plus it had better be.

Built for Bond. Produced exclusively for Spectre, DB10 was designed, engineered and hand crafted by a dedicated team at Aston Martin’s Gaydon Headquarters in the UK. It gave a glimpse to the future design direction for Aston Martins.

The DB5 is still the most iconic Bond car, and has been used as recently as Spectre. But Aston Martin’s continued evolution of the DB line has been a powerful homage to one of the world’s most beloved spy franchises, with the DB10 as the prime exemplar of the unique partnership. Marking 50 years of the Aston Martin/ James Bond relationship, the DB10 was specifically built for use in Spectre – and to date, aside from the 10 units produced for the film, Aston Martin has released only two show cars.

The leather comes from cows that are born and raised at higher elevations so that they don’t get stretch marks, and I wouldn’t be surprised if, as a quality control measure, Aston Martin hired Swedish masseuses to keep the cows relaxed. The interior is still classic Aston. There are not many cars you can step inside and know instantly what car you’re in. Aston Martin has remained faithful to the iconic brand. The DB11 is simply elegant both inside and outside, but there have been noticeable improvements in performance and handling. In “Sport Mode Plus”, this car is an animal - the exhaust sound alone is addictive, and any turbo lag is masked by the enormous instant torque created from the 600HP V12 twin turbo engine.

5.2L V12 48 Valve Twin-Turbo 600BHP / 700NM 8-Speed Automatic Top Speed 322KM/H (200MPH) C$320,000 (as tested)

0-100 3.8s

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The 8-speed flappy paddle gearbox is smooth and instant (as it should be), and the suspension is every bit as tough as required in “Sport Mode Plus”, but soft enough that you can drive your mother-in-law to the grocery store without her scratching you off the annual Christmas card list.

“WARNING - this bit maybe a tad too technical” The Active Aerodynamics is probably the most amazing part of this car, which is interesting, as you cannot see any of it. Without getting too technical: All supercars require a certain amount of downforce (downward airflow around the car) in order to maintain traction, especially when turning. To achieve this, most supercar manufacturers create large rear spoilers that pop up and down at different speeds to maintain the correct amount of downforce. For Aston Martin’s designers, though, a big, ugly spoiler is an eyesore – and so the design team forced their aerodynamicist to find another way to create the downforce necessary to keep the car on the ground. So the design team created an invisible wing. Air intakes behind the rear side windows suck air in and funnel it through the inside of the body into a diverging nozzle, which increases the air speed then spits it back out a slot where the rear wing would usually go. This technical wizardry essentially creates aerodynamic downward thrust, forcing the back end down. Very clever boys - I’d love to have a beer with whoever came up with that idea. Now back to the test drive. I should mention this is not my first Aston experience. I once owned one of the first Vantages when it initially came out, but driving a British car as a Brit was too predictable and resulted in a lot of grief from my buddies. (They

said I was trying to be a better-looking Bond. Or, at least that’s how I remember it.) The reality was that the car – while priced very well - was a little too heavy for my liking, and not quite aggressive enough. The DB11 fixes all of those problems and some. I especially like the electronic armrest that slides back and forth at the touch of a button and the Bang & Olufsen speakers that pop up when you turn on the sound. It may not have rockets, but this level of gadgetry was a nice surprise. The DB11 is not trying to be a Supercar, although 0-60 in about 3.8 seconds is not too bad. No, it’s a “Grand Tourer.” Aston Martin owners are among the most conservative people around, so it’s more about beauty and elegance with a side of power when you want it. The only real competitors are the Bentley GT and the Maserati GT, neither of which look anywhere as good. Both brands also present other problems. It’s common knowledge that Maserati values depreciate like Blackberry stock. And while Bentley has done a good job of refreshing the 10-year-old GT, it still weighs as much as Jupiter. Price-wise the DB11 falls right between the Bentley GT an Maserati GT, and if that’s not deliberate I don’t know what is. So what about Aston Martin’s future? What’s coming next? Aston Martin’s brand ambassador Terence Jenkins (who brought the DB11 to Vancouver for the test drive) says that Aston Martin are indeed making the car, and are calling it AM-RB 001. Only a handful will be made, and the car will not be street legal in Canada. The price will be around $3M US. So there you have it, the all new DB11 and a taste of a hypercar that we will never see in Canada, that’s just friggin awesome!

And here it is - the ground-breaking hypercar; codenamed AM-RB 001. It is “the product of a unique Innovation Partnership between the British luxury brand and eminent F1 team, this ambitious, uncompromising and wholly extraordinary collaboration combines the vision and skills of two world-leading brands to create a road car the like of which has never been seen before”.

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ome people collect art, some collect watches, and some collect cars. But not just any cars - supercars. The rarest cars on the planet. Iconic Concierge photographer Kevin Uy recently had the chance to immortalize an incredible local Vancouver collection of Maranello’s finest. With the value of these rare beauties going up by the day, fetching up to $3M for an Enzo and offers of up to $4.7M for a LaFerrari, this incredibly rare set - all in matching Rosso Corsa red - might very well be one of the best car investment portfolios in the world. Ferrari 288 GTO (1984-1986) - 2.9 V8 5MT (400 HP) It all started in 1984 when Ferrari introduced the 288 GTO. Built to compete in the new Group B Race series where a minimum of 200 cars were required, the “exotic homologation of the Ferrari 308 GTB” never saw a racetrack, as the FIA disbanded the class. As a result, all 272 cars built remained purely road cars. Ferrari claimed a top speed of 304 km/h (189 mph), making it the first street-legal production car to exceed 300 km/h.

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Ferrari F40 (1987-1992) - 2.9 V8 5MT (478 HP) The F40 was designed to celebrate Ferrari’s 40th anniversary and was the last Ferrari automobile personally approved by Enzo Ferrari, who passed away just 14 months after its debut. With a twin-turbo V8 and a lightweight construction, the F40 was crowned the first ever production car to break the 200 mph barrier. A total of 1,311 cars were manufactured.

UNFOLDING MYTHOLOGY The Ultimate Ferrari Collection photography by Kevin Uy

Ferrari F50 (1995-1997) - 4.7 V12 6MT (520 HP) The F50 is the third instalment in the Ferrari supercar series, appearing 10 years after the epic F40 as a celebration of Ferrari’s 50th birthday. Although rarer than an F40 or an Enzo, with only 349 built, the F50 never gained the popularity and status of its siblings. Ferrari Enzo (2002-2004) - 6.0 V12 6AT (660 HP) Using F1 technology, the Enzo was once again the pinnacle of Ferrari road car performance during its two years of production. Only 349 cars were made, but after numerous requests Ferrari decided to build an additional 50 cars, followed by one

more that was donated to the Vatican for charity, bringing the total to 400 units. Ferrari LaFerrari (2013-2015) - 6.3 V12 7AT (963 HP) The Enzo’s successor is Ferrari’s first hybrid hyper-car. Along with the high-revving V12 engine, the car is powered by an additional electric motor that provides extra power and increases the overall fuel efficiency. Only 499 units were built, each for more than 1 million US dollars. An additional 500th car was later manufactured and sold at auction. Later on, Ferrari released the LaFerrari Aperta, a special edition LaFerrari that featured a removable carbon-fibre hard top and a removable soft top. 209 units were produced, and every single one was sold before the Aperta’s presentation to existing customers.

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The Most Wanted Man Style & Substance for the Aspiring Modern Spy Gentleman The Suit is a Modern Gentleman’s Armour - Galahad (Kingsman)

Get a cool combination of confidence, charm, and wit that unlocks all doors from board rooms to bedrooms.

The gentleman spy is something we’ve all wanted to be at some point. Mysteriously intriguing. Strong, silent, yet still the life of the party. Charming, stylish, sexy. Driving the cool car, showing off the neat gadgets, dressed in the bespoke three-piece suit. Devilishly smart, but in a cool way. From James Bond to the Kingsmen, there’s been no shortage of cool spy role models to emulate. The one thing they have in common (aside from extraordinary fighting skills) : They all look downright handsome in a suit. Of course, having a Miss Universe-type woman (or women) at your side doesn’t hurt either, right? But as they say, it’s the clothes that make the man, and that means whether you’re trying to attract your own Bond girl or just complete your mission of looking dapper, what you wear matters. No doubt, the iconic gentleman is a look that will forever be in vogue - and you don’t have to be a spy to be one! So what defines the modern gentleman? Ask any woman, and you will hear that they are handsome and dashing. Let’s add classy, educated, refined, charming, dapper, and driven to the list. It is what gives you the aura and persona of the modern gentleman. Will this get you the membership of an oh-sosecret elite organization that works for or outside the government?

illustration: Devonne T Amos DTAmos.daportfolio.com

We can’t help you with that, but we can help you with the fashion, and show you some of the gadgets and other accessories that may give you the touch of the double-O agent. While the ideal spy gentleman should definitely know how to drive a stick, fly a plane, and skydive, getting started is easy with a few luxury essentials ...

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The Most Wanted Man

The Style THE EYEWEAR Look sharp and stay focused - and get some seriously slick shades. You will need them in the summer and in the winter. Be the leading man. Pictured: Oliver Peoples ‘Thornhill’, Platinum Plated or 22k Yellow Gold. Durant Sessions, 315 W Cordova St.

THE FRAGRANCE Don’t pick just any bottle off the counter - you want your cologne to reflect who you are, so find your signature scent! Pictured: Aventus by Creed

THE CUFFLINKS It’s all about the details, and nothing says style like cufflinks. They are both functional and ornamental, and as long as you’ve got a long-sleeved shirt with the requisite holes in the cuff, you can work them into just about any outfit. Pictured: Alfred Dunhill

THE TIMEPIECE

THE OUTFIT “You never get a second chance to make a first impression.” Dressing like Bond can be a great way to impress the ladies and feel confident about yourself. Get a suit that fits! If it doesn’t fit, it doesn’t work. Enter: Bespoke. Get a suit that is custom made for you, using only the measurements and specifications from you, instead of any existing patterns or templates like Made-to-Measure. It shows. Accessories such as a pocket square and a nice tie will really show class, intelligence, and sophistication.

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You don’t have to invest a fortune, but make sure to get an iconic classic style. No XXL uber-complication, please. Instead opt for a sleek, sophisticated and timeless dress watch, such as the pictured Cartier ‘Drive de Cartier’ in steel with white dial or thr classic Tank Solo. Cartier, 456 Howe St.

THE FOOTWEAR Shoes are an investment in your wardrobe, constructed with age-old tradition they will provide lasting style and comfort. Have them ‘Made to Order’ where you can select from an array of leathers, styles, soles, and widths Pictured: Stefano Bemer (Mehra Shoes, Vancouver)

The Most Wanted Man

Style & Substance for the Aspiring Modern Spy Gentleman

The Gadgets Retro Camera Be different! In times where we use our cellphone as a camera, go ‘retro looks’ but with modern technology. Pictured: Bellami HD-1 pistol-grip interchangeable-lens HD Digital Movie Camera. It has the Super 8-look with high performance electronics.

CellPhone So you have an iPhone or a Samsung, right? And if it weren’t for the stupid case that actually hides what the designers of the phone were trying to achieve it would look exactly like the ones your friends have. Stand out! Either go back in time and get a Blackberry (yes, they are still around) or invest in something truly unique, like the pictured (and Vancouver based) Mobiado phone.

Fountain Pen Signing a contract or just writing a note? Please don’t use that promopen you took from the hotel. Go and buy a noble writing instrument! Pictured: Montblanc Meisterstück. Montblanc, 717 Burrard St.

Cocktails

Lighter

You can’t go wrong with a classic cocktail. Whether you’re craving a tried-and-true Old Fashioned, a traditional whiskey-and-vermouth Manhattan or James Bond’s famous Vesper ... just make sure you know the basic recipes to order them right.

For the nobleman who engages in the delight of smoking a cigar, or for those who want to be prepared if the lady asks for a light. Pictured: Pasha de Cartier lighter

Classic Car You don’t have to invest a fortune (although a good investment) to buy an Aston Martin DB5 or the pictured ‘Ian Callum’ Mk2 by CMC. But nothing says ‘style’ like a vintage European car. May we recommend one of these underrated classics: Jaguar XJS; Alfa Romeo GT Veloce; Lotus Esprit Turbo; Mercedes SL (W107 1971-89)

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The Gentleman

They should have taught you this in school....

by Dr. Christian Brix

10 Things Every Gentleman MUST Experience “The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience.” - Eleanor Roosevelt In the journey that is our lives as gentlemen there are simply things that one must experience. When we look back on our lives, we certainly want to be proud of what we have done, and we want to believe we really lived to the fullest. The obvious list of experiencing true love, discovering our purpose, or raising a child is great, but this list is more specific, lighter and perhaps a bit easier to complete! Start checking these off your list as soon as possible: •

•

Get a shave from a real barber – There is something intriguing and classic about a man holding a sharp razor against your neck, and for some reason you just feel connected to the essence of being an oldschool gentleman. Drive an exotic car – We may not all be able to purchase one of these manhood-confirming machines, but it is an absolute must that at some point in your life, you get behind the wheel of one. The feeling of getting pulled back in your seat while the engine screams can elicit an amazing visceral experience.

•

Get fitted for a custom tailored suit – This one might cost the most of all the items on the list, but the feeling of a suit that was custom made for only you is worth every penny.

•

Catch a wave – Surfing is not easy. All I can say is that if you commit to going to a surf spot, renting a board (maybe taking a lesson), and giving it your all, in the moment when you catch your first wave you will “get it.” To conquer even that sliver of the awesome power of the ocean is unlike any other feeling. Trust me…do it.

•

Go to an NFL game – I should say that a college football game would also compare if not trump a professional one. Either way, if you want to experience intense energy and a great show, being at a live football game surrounded by tens of thousands of fans is the way. (note: I would have said European football, but my personal bias and loathing of “diving” forced me to leave it out…Sorry.)

•

Have your shoes shined – if you don’t have shoes that can be shined, then put this magazine down immediately. There was once a great time when men were proud to have perfectly polished penny loafers (alliteration…you’re welcome)

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•

Take a cross country road trip – Whether it’s a VW van or 5 star hotels the whole way, one can only be complete when he has experienced his home land to the fullest. From food and culture to nature and architecture, experiencing all that Canada has to offer will make you a better man.

•

Run a marathon – It is just you out there, suffering, with only your thoughts to push you or stop you. When you’re finished, you are have truly accomplished something primal and great in multiple ways.

•

Attend an outdoor music festival – Obviously music performed live is how it was meant to be heard. Even if you aren’t one of the people who need drugs to create a reality that allows them to find enjoyment in their generally sad lives, you can have the experience of a lifetime at many of the big music festivals. Watching an artist perform in front of a sea of people who are hanging on every note is an epic feeling.

•

Jump out of a plane – Assuming you choose to use a parachute for this, you can take your mind to the limits of its fear and life preserving instincts by simply looking out the open door of a perfectly good airplane. That leap goes against every survival instinct we have, and the exhilaration of ignoring it can be fundamentally transformative.

Eleanor Roosevelt said “The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience.” The experiences we accumulate when we aren’t on our phones or watching TV are truly the seasoning that gives our life flavour. We are charged with making it as delicious as we possibly can.

Dr. Christian Brix Writer – Chiropractor - Broth Baron - Gentleman www.brixfamilychiropractic.com

AN ICONIC LINEAGE DB11 is the Aston Martin you’ve been waiting for. Spectacular standard-bearer for an all-new generation of cars, DB11 is the most powerful and most efficient ‘DB’ production model in Aston Martin’s history. At its heart a brand new twin-turbocharged V12 engine delivers phenomenal performance combined with vastly reduced fuel consumption and emissions. Pioneering aerodynamics cheat the wind, generate exceptional stability and preserve our world-renowned design purity.

To experience the DB11’s formidable new standard for yourself, contact: Aston Martin Vancouver 1770 Burrard Street Vancouver BC V6J 3G7, Canada For information call 604-734-2905 or visit astonmartinvancouver.ca © Aston Martin 2016. Vehicle shown for illustrational purposes only.

ATHLETIC LUXURY REDEFINED ELEGANCE INTRODUCING THE 2017 GENESIS G90 “We recognize that most every vehicle competing in the luxury segment is a well-designed product. It has to be; an excellent car is what all luxury customers expect from the outset. Genesis is different and goes beyond exceptional cars by providing a human-centred purchase and ownership experience.” - Michael Ricciuto, Director of Genesis

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THE CONCIERGE SERVICE

When Genesis Motors Canada, Hyundai’s new luxury brand, invited us for an exclusive test-drive of their new flagship model during The Luxury & Supercar Weekend in September, we weren’t too thrilled.

But what really blew us away is the interior. If you would have put us blindfolded in this cabin, masking the Genesis logo on the steering wheel, our guess would have been Bentley or Maybach.

Sure, the G90 will compete at the top of the luxury car market with worldclass technological innovations. And yes, it features the highest levels of refinement, craftsmanship, convenience, and dynamic performance. But despite hearing great things, we were still skeptical. After all, isn’t “Hyundai luxury car” a contradiction in terms?

The smell of the Napa leather, the touch of the materials, the look of the instruments, the perfection in the details (heck, the audio speaker grilles are machined of high-grade aluminum alloy!) - only the finest materials have been used in this cabin.

Designed by the company’s new Prestige Design division that will be responsible for all six Genesis model by 2021, the G90 is the first realization of the brand’s ‘Athletic Elegance’ design style. And we have to admit, the G90’s silhouette, penned under the oversight of Chief Design Officer Peter Schreyer, is powerful and refined. Yes, we see some familiar lines, but it works and gives the car a sophisticated and distinctive appearance.

You will be sitting in an electronicallycontrolled, 22-way power driver’s seat including power bolsters, cushion extension and shoulder adjustment that was actually approved by the German Campaign for Healthier Backs! Even the passenger seat offers 16-way adjustment for optimal comfort. And the best part? All front seat positions, side mirrors and steering column position are controlled by an integrated memory system. The two front seats offer both heating and ventilation.

Let’s face it: we don’t want to spend $90k for a luxury car and then have to test-drive it, pick it up or bring it to a Hyundai dealership. And Genesis knows that. So instead of creating a whole new dealership network, they came up with a better solution: Potential owners will be able to schedule a “Genesis at Home” demonstration and vehicle test drive with a Genesis representative at a location of their choosing. They can even complete lease or finance paperwork, make a deposit, and place an order for a new vehicle through Hyundai’s digital platform from the comfort of their home or office. Equally as important: All quotes are transparent, with set, all-inclusive pricing. That means every price for a Genesis vehicle not only includes delivery and destination charges that most dealers will typically add on at purchase, but also services such as complimentary scheduled maintenance and navigation software updates for 5 years or 100,000 km. Further, the Genesis at Home concierge service extends from the purchase process into the ownership period. Genesis owners can have their vehicles picked up for scheduled maintenance and returned afterward, and Hyundai will even provide a courtesy car in the interim. It’s just one of the many ways that the Genesis represents a new evolution in the luxury car market. “Genesis will bring the brand into customers’ lives in a harmonious way, saving them time with simplified, set pricing, fully-equipped models, and the Genesis at Home concierge service for sales and service,” says Michael Ricciuto, Director of Genesis. Given everything we’ve seen thus far, it looks like the Genesis will be a powerful and game-changing entry into the luxury car market - and it’s sure to provide an experience that buyers will never forget. Find out more at www.genesis.com

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The same comfort awaits you in the rear, with captainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seats that are electronically-adjustable in 12 ways (14-ways for the right seat position, which is also approved by the German campaign). They are also heated and ventilated, and have power slide linked with recline, shoulder-adjusters, rear lumbar support, 4-way head restraints and a rear integrated memory system with controls located on the rear doors. Still not impressed? Are you not entertained? Well with the amazing built-in entertainment system, you certainly will be. The Lexicon Sound System has been developed in concert with Grammy Award-winning artists and producers, boasts Quantum Logic surround sound with 17 speakers and a 10-inch subwoofer, and quite simply gives you a concert hall-like experience that is hard to find in any other car. The G90â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s audio-visual system is displayed via a 12.3-inch HD wide screen in the centre console. The screen plays a key role in enhancing the ease of parking and urban manoeuvres. A 1MP digital camera is activated when parking, sharing the screen with a high-resolution 360-degree Around View Monitor. In addition, a seven-inch high-resolution TFT-LCD display enhances data recognition for the driver from the centre gauge cluster. Depending on individual taste or mood, one of seven interior ambient lighting mood lamps can be selected, and crystal LED lamps are positioned in the overhead console and cabin lighting positions. From the outside mirrors, Genesis-logo approach lamps are projected on the ground for enhanced visibility while approaching the vehicle.

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But that only scratches the surface of what the G90 has in store. A mind-boggling array of other extras are included standard, such as a heated steering wheel, wireless charging for your mobile device, a proximity key system, power rear- and rear-side window sunshades, power door closure and so much more. The only thing not included standard? Is the colour. And yes, we drove it. The AWD G90 flagship-model comes with a 5.0-litre direct-injected V8 engine producing 420hp, which is paired with a smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission. You can choose between four distinct driving modes: Smart, Eco, Sport, and Individual. The G90 also includes proprietary adaptive automatic transmission technology that analyzes your driving style and adjusts shifting character in real-time driving conditions. Safety-wise, the G90 features a comprehensive array of standard safety technology including Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) with Pedestrian Detection, Driver Attention Alert (DAA) and Smart Blind Spot Detection. The driving experience? A 5.2 second sprint to 100km/h is not uncommon in this class, but this is not a sports car. We took the G90 out for the day and truly enjoyed the luxurious ride quality of this sedan. It is never easy to establish a new brand, especially in the luxury class, but with a price starting at C$84,000 (V6) and C$87,000 (V8), Hyundai (sorry, Genesis) has a pretty good chance.

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THE NEXT GENERATION VANCOUVER’S YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS

words by Allie Henderson photography by Tavish Kelpin

ELLIOT MASHFORD President, Eagle Energy Vapor

It all began when Elliot Mashford was handed an energy drink flavored e-cigarette to try. Though it tasted like an energy drink, it did not give you the energy rush typically followed when you would drink a Rockstar or a Red Bull. But this small interaction piqued Mashford’s curiosity, and he began to wonder if one could in fact, inhale energy? Was it possible to inhale caffeine and receive the same effects? Though a Philosophy and Religious Studies student at UBC Vancouver, Mashford set out to answer these questions. Within the last few years Millennials have been hopping the smoke-free vape train as it quickly becomes a new, techy trend for the 18 - 30 something market. Some of the standard devices we’re seeing these days are battery powered devices which create an inhalable vapor with a heat source. However, unlike Eagle Energy products, the typical e-cigs on the market since 2008 are nicotine based and are considered to still carry some health risks . Keeping the same vape philosophy in mind, Mashford set out to explore and research options for a caffeine buzz without the side effects of additional sugar and sodium. He was determined to find a healthy alternative to the consumption of energy drinks and still deliver the same energy boost Eager to find answers, Mashford took his idea to a botanist. Together, they rebuilt the standard e-cigarette housing system to allow for caffeine, taurine, and ginseng - ingredients used in energy drinks to give you mental energy - to combine as inhalable energy. This new housing system, which Mashford now calls the Eagle, is completely free of nicotine, but loaded with healthy mental boosters you can inhale at any time. The benefit? Portable energy you can take on hikes, chairlifts, between classes - anywhere you need a hit. You don’t have to buy a drink - your energy is in your pocket. Crediting much of his learning to UBC’s Entrepreneurs Mentorship program, Mashford gained international recognition after launching a crowdfunding campaign on Indiegogo. The company was featured in Forbes, the New York Times, and the Telegraph News, and Mashford’s idea and story was going viral. The result? The exposure that he needed to take it his company, Eagle Energy, international.

Eagle Energy is currently available online in Australia, China, USA and Canada. But with their new partnership with JB Metro, they are already on the shelves of Australian stores in 2017.

energy] effectively answers many smokers’ most common questions about energy vapes:

Eagle Energy’s story has seen their share of success, but there is something to be said about being a pioneer in a new market.

Effectiveness & Usability. An energy drink is like the internet in the 90’s, remember that? With Eagle Energy, it takes 30 seconds to one minute to increase your mental alertness versus an energy drink that takes 30 minutes to an hour to finally kick in.

“Pioneers always have arrows in their backs,” Mashford has said. Though they’ve taken the legal steps necessary to protect their ideas and products, being a pioneer in a new market isn’t the most ideal. You do the work, put in the time, money and resources to prove a concept, then live in the fear that a bigger company with more money could come along and bring their big brand power to it, potentially wiping out your fledgling operation. But that’s not a fear Mashford gives his energy to. “I think what makes me a great leader is that every day, I show up expecting new problems and I’m ready to solve them. I know we will always be facing new challenges and I am consistently looking to solve the problems, not live in them.” Another talent Mashford is blessed with: Working with what he’s got. He’s picked up several influential ambassadors from within his and his team’s own network, to help build the name and the brand. Eagle Energy’s idea is exciting to many, but there are skeptics who are concerned about the potential health risks associated with it. But with a rich FAQ section on the brand’s website www.eagleenergy.com, it’s easy to understand what this new type of caffeine inhalers means for consumers’ safety. An excerpt from the company website [eagle.

WHY IS EAGLE ENERGY BETTER THAN AN ENERGY DRINK?

HOW IS EAGLE ENERGY DIFFERENT FROM AN E-CIG? I’ll answer your question with another question. What’s the difference between a can of soda and a can of beer? The insides. An e-cig has nicotine to help you quit smoking. Eagle has guarana and ginseng to give you mental energy. HOW CAN I USE EAGLE ENERGY IF I’M A SUPER HEALTHY PERSON? Easy, use that precious stomach space for good things, like water. And use Eagle to get that alertness you’re looking for. Stay hydrated, people. HOW MANY PUFFS IS EQUIVALENT TO AN ENERGY DRINK? 10 - 15 consecutive puffs will give you all the mental energy you need for an hour. We recommend using it periodically throughout the day or whenever you need it. DOES EAGLE ENERGY CONTAIN NICOTINE? NOPE! None. Zero. Zilch. There you have it: Eagles give you Energy! ICONIC CONCIERGE

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photography by Kevin Uy

BENTLEY BENTAYGA vs AMG G65 With two gearheads in our Dream Team, it was about time to start a new competition. Four times a year, Robbie Dickson and Olaf Robrecht will go Head2Head and pick their favourite ride for the season ... and then bash the otherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s choice. And as this is the Winter edition, the challenge was to find the best luxury SUV. Gentlemen, please start your engines ...

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Three Incomparable Miles

Inspired by a Legend

Gilles Villeneuve

Jacques Villeneuve

Join the Club

Real History Track Drivers Fun... A Circuit Unlike Any Other

BENTLEY BENTAYGA I knew Olaf would choose the boxy overpriced G-wagon. He’s predictably German and loves his Mercedes even if it’s a crappy one. I instead made the correct choice and went for the ultra curvy and luxurious $300k-plus Bentley, with its W12 600hp engine that propels it from 0-60 in 3.5 seconds (2 seconds faster than the G-Box). The 17-tonne weight advantage probably helps with acceleration. The Bentayga is by far the most comfortable ride I’ve ever had. You don’t feel like you’re in an SUV; it handles more like a sedan that’s firmly planted on the road. Unlike the G-box, you know you’re in charge. However, I did find it hard to concentrate on the road: The Bentley has so many cool gadgets and features, and you may even find yourself admiring the 24 acres of leather ...a pleasure you’ll never get in the G-thing.

AMG G65 Don’t tell Robbie that I said this, but this thing makes no sense at all! $300,000 for a giant 12-cylinder engine on a 5,000+ pound 40 year old tank. Yes, there may have been some changes since the 70s, but they wouldn’t even qualify as a face-lift. Some new trim here and there, updated headlights, mirror caps and wheels, that’s pretty much it. The (still primitive) interior got lots of leather and some tech stuff, but heck, there’s not even a push-button starter! The windows are electric, though, so that’s nice. The engine? It must be amazing as it costs $100k more than the AMG 8-cylinder in the G63, right? Nope. The (very outdated) handbuilt 6-liter V12 biturbo with its 621hp and 738 lb.ft. of torque makes the G65 only 0.1 seconds faster than the V8. Not even the seven-speed AMG Speedshift Plus 7G-

So there you have it, the Bentayga kicks ass, and I chose the perfect Luxury SUV.

Tronic makes it better. And driving this box on wheels faster than 120 km/h is scary.

But I must confess that as ridiculous as the G-box is, I’d still choose that over the Bentayga because it has a level of insanity I seem to have an affinity for. I don’t know why, it makes no sense, I get all that. I just happen to like impractical, overpriced stupid cars.

So why did I pick it? It’s terrible - and amazingly wonderful. It’s expensive, but unforgettable. It sounds amazing, is undeniably sexy, and the most iconic SUV out there. And if you want a Bentley, get the G63 and buy a used Bentley GT with the money saved!

W12 5,950ccm 8-speed Automatic Transmission 608hp Weight: 2.440kg 0-100 km/h: 4.1s Top Speed: 301 km/h

V12 5,980ccm AMG Speedshift Plus 7G-Tronic 621hp Weight: 2.585kg 0-100 km/h: 5.3s Top Speed: 230 km/h (electronically limited)

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man about town

images by Norm Lee Photo; Pelman Photography (3)

very vibrant metropolitan city has Created in1889, the Vancouver Club has many similarities to a selection of unique signature the private member’s club in London called ‘White’s’ located events that stand at 37Event St. James Street, all where in the movies, Bondthe is On June 16th, Jaguar Vancouver hosted the out. New Generation Jaguar to celebrate Jaguar models, andJames especially a member. launch of the new XE sedan and F-Pace SUV for the 2017 model year. Close to 400 people attended this amazing event (by E=Mc2) with its laser-show unveiling of the cars, canapes, beverages, and some great live music.

One of the must attend events in Vancouver is the Official James Bond Tribute Party hosted by JetSet Crew, who produce this annual party at The Vancouver Club – the oldest private member’s club in Vancouver.

Through the years, when there is a new James Bond movie launch, JetSet Crew decorate the club in the theme of that 4 particular movie. In the years, in between, JetSet Crew selects a classic Bond movie for its theme and showcases the music, décor, Baccarat tables, movie characters and cocktails

5 60

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A VIEW TO A KILL The Original James Bond 007 Tribute Party

featured in that classic Bond film. The annual James Bond Tribute Party, going on for over a decade, no longer needs an introduction to the jet set entourage in Vancouver. Guests know the accoutrement includes a tux for men and cocktail dresses for women while sipping on vodka martinis – shaken not stirred - or vintage champagne, while dancing the night away to DJ sets and a live band performance, as well as being of the best events to find a romantic liaison with secret agents.

The 2017 date has been announced for Saturday, November 18. So if you want to completely immerse yourself in the world of Bond, be the exotic spy you always dreamed you were (or maybe want to be your favourite villain), drink vodka martinis “shaken not stirred” and meet dashing Secret Agents and stunning Bond girls (well, and if you want you can even try to save the world from imminent doom), then just head over to the official website www.jetsetcrew.com and register to get your personal invitation. We’ll see you at the party!

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The

Dapper Gent! Travel Shaving Kit This elegant kit by German brand Mühle is perfectly equipped for stylish shaving while you travel. It includes a chrome-plated shaver with a Gillette Mach 3 blade, a brush that unscrews from a housing that doubles as its detachable handle and a Florentine leather travel case. www.menessentials.ca

The Man Can Best packaging ever! Soap and skincare products in a can! It even comes with a dual bottle/paint can opener. Contains 1 Bar Soap. 1 Shave Gel, 1 Bay Rum Oil, 1 Hand Butter, and 1 Scratchy Body Accessory. www.plumislandsoap.com

Yaletown

Metrotown

Razor Handles Shaving with a disposable cartridge system doesn’t have to be ordinary. There are several elegant razor handles for Gilette Fusion cartridges which will bring style into your daily shaving routine. www.fendrihan.ca

Organic Facial Mask This organic Mineral Clay Facial Mask draws out impurities and absorbs excess oils that cause acne, blackheads and a shiny complexion, while it shrinks and tightens pores to prevent future congestion and breakouts. www.ruggedanddapper.com Eye Treatment This revitalizing eye treatment has been specifically formulated for men and features the anti-aging benefits of hyaluronic acid, organic pumpkin, and rosemary extracts. Provides hydration and a cooling effect, while diminishing the signs of aging. www.sephora.com

Get yourself a Signature Scent – The Secret Style Weapon. It tells people who you are!

1. Paco Rabanne ‘1 Million’ - A masculine tribute to the pioneers of our childhood memories. An addictive woody fragrance with apple, patchouli and tobacco notes. | 2. ‘Man in Black’ by BVLGARI - A new masculine Eau de Parfum. Sophisticated & boldly seductive, luxurious & magnificent. | 3. ‘A*Men Pure Havane’ by Thierry Mugler - An intensive woodsy composition interpretation of tobacco scent and the finest Cuban cigars. | 4. ‘Gentlemen Only Absolute’ by Givenchy - For the refined man of today. A woody, spicy oriental scent with notes of bergamot, vanilla and sandalwood. | 5. ‘Valentino Uomo’ by Valentino - Woody and nutty, with top notes of bergamot and myrtle that mingle with roasted coffee bean and decadent chocolate..

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PiTTi UOMO FASHION THE ITALIAN WAY by Jason Sarai

Pitti Uomo: The bi-annual world-class menswear showcase based in Florence, Italy that every gentleman dreams of attending. For Style by Sarai, this dream became reality when I was invited to partake in the trade show Pitti Uomo 90 in June 2016. Since 1972, Pitti Uomo has achieved international renown as the world’s most prestigious menswear exhibition, launching major seasonal trends from the industry’s top brands and leaders In the 70s Pitti began as a platform to showcase the best of Italian fashion and design, with only a handful of designers and textile mills. Italy, being one of the most influential countries in fashion, holds the highest standards in the men’s realm, leading the way in craftsmanship, style, and

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above all, dandyism. Today, Pitti Uomo hosts exhibitors from all corners of the globe specializing in clothing, accessories, and textiles. Pitti is world renowned for launching new menswear projects, emerging designers, brand ambassadors, and keeping the classic Italian sartorial lifestyle alive. Pitti Uomo 90, introduced in June 2016, celebrated a record-breaking edition with an increase in buyers from Germany, China, Japan, Russia, U.K., Australia and the U.S.A. A

total of over 30,000 top-tier buyers, journalists, entrepreneurs and influencers attended the release. Special guests and speakers included Karl Lagerfeld of Chanel and Fendi, Gosha Rubchinskiy of Comme des Garcons, and Raf Simons of Christian Dior and Calvin Klein. Pitti Uomo not only represents an exhibition where buyers can find inspiration for upcoming seasons but is also an increasingly popular showcase destination for dapper men and women. A destination where stylish, well-dressed and like-

minded people gather, connect, and exchange stories. The Florentine trade show attracts all sorts of daring combinations and visual contrasts, making the event a chance to sport your creative personality and style.

Unlike most menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fashion weeks, Pitti Uomo exhibitions feature a constant theme and similarity in how attendees and exhibitors present themselves: like gentlemen.

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Below I’ve listed what I gathered at Pitti Uomo as my top 10 menswear trends and lessons for S/S ‘17: 1. Monochromatic Neutrals – Mix and match your neutrals this season. Colours such as white, beige, chestnut, and taupe can make for a subtle yet smart ensemble. 2. Ascot – Accessorize with the ascot, not traditionally worn in North America but an effortless sartorial look. Pair an ascot with a crisp collared shirt to create a stylish, upscale impression. 3. Bold Blue – Step away from navy and try out cobalt, admiral or sapphire. 4. Panama Hat – Add some dimension to your look by sporting a panama hat this season. A complimentary accessory for any daytime suit or denim/ shirt combo. Sunglasses encouraged! 5. Regimental – The classic British regimental tie known for its diagonal stripes is back in action. For a true regimental look, incorporate white and navy along with this tie. 6. Tassel Loafers – Offered in various textures leather, suede and even basket weave. The tassel loafer are the shoe of the season! 7. Leather Briefcase – Carry around a leather briefcase to store any electronics, books and belongings the right way. Keep your style consistent from head to toe by choosing a leather that will work with the colour palette of your wardrobe. 8. Suit + Kicks – Thinking of improving your smart casual game this year? Dress down your suit by pairing it with a pair of kicks. Dress up by keeping your daily shirt and tie or dress down by simply wearing a t-shirt under your jacket. 9. Opt for a Vest – The spring/ summer season

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tends to get pretty hot. Drop your jacket and simply wear your waist coat or vest for a lightweight and fresh look. 10. Pattern Clash – Learning how to mix prints isn’t easy for everyone. Start by understanding the scale of your prints. Choose a larger print mixed with a smaller print for pattern mixing harmony.

Here Comes the Rain! The Umbrella Guide for the Distinguished Gentleman

photography: Caitlyn Van Nice model: Kristian Stevens suit: Style by Sarai turtleneck: Ralph Lauren shoes: Kurt Geiger London watch: Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra armchair: Tonino Lamborghini Casa “IMOLA CARBON” by INspiration Furniture, Vancouver umbrella: “Luxury Town” by The Umbrella Shop, Vancouver

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“If you can’t stop the rain you may as well embrace it!”

here has always been something very elegant about a man with an umbrella (and gloves, for that matter). And here in Vancouver, we are fortunate enough (cough, cough) to have the perfect weather for sporting a stylish canopy to enhance your business or formal attire.

If you don’t already own a well made umbrella, this is one accessory you may want to consider investing in. You can find one for just a few dollars, or you can cancel the order for your wife’s new car and buy the world’s most expensive umbrella, the black crocodile skin Billionaire Couture Umbrella, for around US$50,000. All umbrellas serve the same basic purpose - to keep you dry in the rain. But the many differences in style and material mean that not all umbrellas are equally effective, and not all umbrellas look great while keeping you dry.

The first thing to look for? Canopy size. The larger the canopy, the better it will protect you from rain. The size of the canopy will also determine how compact the umbrella is when collapsed. Next is wind. If you are battling it a lot, a vented or two-layer fabric canopy will help keep the umbrella from flipping inside out. You’ll also want to consider the material of the canopy and its overall durability. Most canopies are made of nylon or some similar tightly woven fabric with an added chemical coating. When treated right, you will most likely never have to worry about it. There are important differences in the stretchers, though. Stretchers and hinges made of steel or iron are more likely to rust. Fiberglass is the better option.

“The world’s smartest umbrella”, the GustBuster has an award winning double-canopy design that will stand up to the elements (wind-tested by the College of Aeronautics to 55+ mph). Available in many sizes and designs. www.gustbuster.com

One final consideration: here is a chance that your umbrella may need a repair at one point. If it was a budget model you are better off to get a new one, but if you invested some more money a repair will make sense.

We did some research, some shopping, and had a chat with Charlotte Ballantyne of “The Umbrella Shop” - and we learned a thing or two about what makes a good umbrella.

A word of advice, though: If you bought a foreign-made designer umbrella, it may be difficult for the local umbrella shops to find parts. So maybe check out what local specialized stores and manufacturers have in stock!

You love your brands? Not a problem, most fashion houses offer their very own umbrella lines. Expect to spend between $300 and $900, depending on the designer and the style of the umbrella. BURBERRY Signature umbrella with black/silver-tone handle; HERMES Jacquard Canvas Pluie De H Folding Umbrella; ALEXANDER MCQUEEN Metal skull handle umbrella . (left to right)

In case you didn’t know ... Umbrella or Parasol? The umbrella is a handheld canopy used for protection from the rain, whereas the parasol is intended to be used for protection from the sun. The history of the canopy dates back thousands of years to the Middle East where parasols were used by servants to protect the bald head of the king from the sun. The first evidence of a collapsible canopy back to China when in 21 AD Wang Mang had one custom made for his carriage.

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photography by Todd Duncan location: Suquet Interiors, Yaletown

Off Duty - Spiderman 60×20×3 - Tile, grout on Surfboard Off Duty is Jason Dussault’s latest body of work, a series of mosaic surfboard sculptures depicting super-heroes and comic book characters in various tongue-in-cheek “Off Duty” scenarios. Off Duty is whimsical reminder that even though we all mature into adulthood, we should never lose the connection with the innocence of our inner child.

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t is one of those stories that we all love. Born in Kamloops and raised in North Vancouver, Jason Dussault is a celebrated New York artist whose art is featured in the Hoerle-Guggenheim Museum alongside works by the likes of Andy Warhol, Salvador Dali and Pablo Picasso.

An entrepreneur all his life, Jason rose to fame when he started the Deuce Custom Ink apparel company in Gastown in 2005. Dussault’s rapidly growing company sold clothes through stores in Vancouver before opening a flagship location in Los Angeles as well as an in-store location in New York. By that time he had changed the name to “Dussault Apparel,” a suggestion from Kiss frontman Gene Simmons with whom Dussault had collaborated to launch the musician’s MoneyBag clothing line. The popularity of the label finally led to the reality TV show “Dussault Inc.”, which aired for two seasons in 2011/12 and showcased Jason’s personal and professional life. “It was a great experience,” says Jason, “but unless I would make some Kardashian money I wouldn’t do it again.” Burnt out, Dussault eventually decided to retire his fashion brand. “I wanted to evolve,” he explains, “the fashion industry was changing, and although I will bring back a limited-edition line at some point I was looking for a change.”

You can break a thing, but you cannot always guide it afterward into the shape you want.” “I find there are things you can do with mosaic you just can’t do with paint,” Jason says. “The tiles have a certain depth that you just can’t achieve in paint. When it catches and reflects light, it almost comes to life.” His biggest mosaic artwork to-date is a mural he gifted to the City of Vancouver. The massive 48 square metre artwork was part of the annual Telus Days of Giving in 2015, and was done with the help of 500 volunteers. “The social component of getting help from all of these people from the community was very special,” Dussault says. Dussault keeps residence in both New York and Vancouver. “When I come back to Vancouver it is nice to take a breather, be in nature, and to relax. You need a calm mind, it helps me to conceptualize new ideas.” You can find out more about Jason Dussault, his mosaic artwork and the upcoming collection, “Tranquilo: A Tribute to Gaudí”, created in Ibiza, Spain on his website jasondussault.com. Kimoto Gallery on 6th and Granville also have some of his artwork on display, as well as Suquet Interiors.

Four years ago he started the next chapter in his illustrious career. Reinventing an ancient art of mosaic-making using shattered pieces of tile, paint, grout, resin and vintage porcelain, Dussault created large-scale artworks depicting mainly iconic characters from his youth such as Spiderman, Superman or The Incredible Hulk. Gallery director Philippe Hoerle-Guggenheim said of Dussault’s work in a press release: “Jason’s work shows figures we can all relate to. It is generational and we all grew up reading and seeing heroes in action. It resonates.”. We met up with Jason at Suquet Interiors, the eclectic furniture and stone fireplace store in Yaletown, where several of his pieces, including a very cool mosaic-art covered surfboard, are on display. The sculpture is part of a collection called Off Duty, in which each surfboard features a Lego superhero or comic book character enjoying an off-duty activity. The eye-catching piece also incorporates what Dussualt refers to as “diamond dust,” a type of glitter and diamond particulate he mixes in the grout that is now almost a signature of most of his creations.

SHATTERED! JASON DUSSAULT the art of

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THE FUTURE IS SUPERSONIC THE AERION AS2

f you have your own private jet, you have made it. No doubt about it. You’re a One Percenter.

But here’s the thing (and don’t get all depressed now, your life is still pretty darn good) - your fellow club members may soon upgrade their ride. That Branson bloke already signed up for it, and we hear some other big names put their names of the list of those who will get their very own supersonic private jet. Yes, supersonic, as in “Concorde.” It seems the luxury of flat-bed flying in your own Gulfstream wasn’t enough anymore. Well, folks, good news, actually great news, there will soon be a new toy that will set you apart from the rest of us. Several aircraft companies are now starting design and production on a variety of private and commercial supersonic jets. Aerion Corporation, an American aircraft manufacturer based in Reno, Nevada, is one of the companies who is at the forefront of creating a much faster future of air travel. Established in 2002 to pursue the development of supersonic transport aircraft, the company has amassed numerous patents and has conducted several flight tests in conjunction with NASA.

Their jet, the AS2, will carry 8 to 12 passengers in a 30-footlong cabin at speeds as fast as Mach 1.5 (990 mph). With a range of up to 5,466 miles, the AS2 cuts transatlantic travel time by 3 hours and shortens trans-Pacific routes by 6 hours or more. Orders have been accepted since late 2015 at a price of US$ 120 million, and just recently the flight-service provider Flexjet has placed a firm order for 20 Aerion AS2 aircraft. Another milestone was the announcement of a collaboration with Airbus Group. “The collaboration between Aerion and Airbus Group has been extremely beneficial and productive,” said Allan McArtor, Chairman and CEO of Airbus Group, Inc. “Under our new agreement, our two companies are working as one to bring Aerion’s supersonic AS2 to the business jet market.” Aerion is planning on a first flight of the AS2 in 2021 and entry into service in 2023, following FAA certification. www.aerionsupersonic.com

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DISTINCTIVE LUXURY A NEW STANDARD IN VIP TRANSPORT

he average person sees the world from ground level, but there are the chosen few that have worked hard or are fortunate enough to be able to discuss the new superyacht and actually placed some calls after reading about the supersonic jets a few pages back. Well, we have something else for your collection of transportation devices: Your own private luxury helicopter! You may have a jet, and yes it is much faster, but helicopters allow you to take in the surrounding view like nothing else. Besides, have you tried to land your jet on the roof of a building or in the middle of the city? There you go - the helicopter is the perfect way to travel to meetings, your house in the countryside, or a little shopping spree. Of course, there are quite a few helicopters to choose from, so we took the liberty of having a closer look for you, and we think we found the perfect one for you!

“The Bell 525 is taking luxury helicopter transport to a new level,” said Patrick Moulay, executive vice president of Global Sales and Marketing for Bell Helicopter. “Along with the magnificent interior, the Bell 525 provides an unprecedented level of luxury, style, and comfort and introduces enhanced features and technology that set the Bell 525 apart from any other VIP aircraft.” The highly customizable 88 sq.ft. cabin allows each owner to create a one-of-a-kind interior with your own layout, seating configurations and furnishings. You can control the ambient lights, the electro-chromic window tint and audio/video with your smart device, and the fly-by-wire technology guarantees that you combine the latest in safety with the finest in luxury. The price? Available upon request, but have a bit more than US$15 million at hand when you make the call now. www.bellhelicopter.com

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ICONIC IMPULSE The BMW Motorrad VISION NEXT 100

No, you can’t buy it. At least not now. The VISION NEXT 100 motorcycle was unveiled last October at the “Iconic Impulses. The BMW Group Future Experience” exhibition in Los Angeles. The ultimate riding experience, BMW says that the VISION NEXT 100 eliminates the need for protective clothing or even a helmet. And that means the rider can enjoy the forces of acceleration, nature, and the wind, savouring every moment of the ride. The iconic elements in the BMW Motorrad VISION NEXT 100 make it immediately recognisable as a “genuine BMW” and include the black frame triangle, a reference to the first ever BMW motorcycle, the R32, made in 1923, white lines and classic, boxer engine forms. Viewed from the side, the frame lends it the character of a naked bike, with ergonomics to match and a seat in the roadster position. The clever arrangement of surfaces protects the rider from wind and weather as effectively as a full fairing. The surface of the frame is covered in matt black textile, its silky sheen and fine lines highlighting the characteristic forms and representing a contemporary reinterpretation of this classic BMW detail. The Flexframe appears as a single, integrated whole that extends from the front to the rear wheel. Being flexible, it allows the bike to be steered without the various joints found on today’s motorcycles. Turning the handlebar adjusts the entire frame, changing the direction of the bike. The amount of strength needed to steer depends on the situation: at standstill, the Flexframe allows a light steering whereas at higher speeds it remains very rigid. In the middle of the triangle frame sits a style feature and historical reminder: the power unit. Designed and created in the image of the traditional BMW boxer engine, it actually consists of a zero-emissions drive unit. Its outward appearance changes depending on the circumstances: when the bike is resting, the power unit is compact, extending outwards only when the bike sets off, to enhance aerodynamics and protect the rider from the elements.

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Beneath the seat shell, two fine, red, illuminated strips form the rear light and indicators, and a lonely red rocker-switch on the right-hand end of the handlebar is an homage to the analogue days of original biking and blocks or releases the throttle grip. Finally, BMW logo is displayed on the dark frame. It is illuminated in the familiar blue and white colours while driving.

“The BMW Motorrad VISION NEXT 100 embodies the BMW Group’s vision of biking in a connected world – an analogue experience in a digital age.“ - Edgar Heinrich, Head of Design BMW Motorrad

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WORTH THE WAIT You deserve the best, and the top end of the motorcycle market is absolutely sizzling with amazing boutique machines and big-dollar bikes. So call yourself lucky, time is money these days and we did some research to find the newest and the coolest for the most two-wheeled fun for you.

ARIEL ACE-R

(top image) Ariel, makers of the Atom sports car, first announced the Ace two years ago, and have produced 50 units to date. The “R” boasts a tuned-up version of the Honda V4 engine, but will be much more exclusive: Only 10 will be manufactured. Ariel has increased the engine power to 201 bhp and torque to 143 nm, and the aluminum frame has been lightened and optimized. The Ace-R’s top speed is 295 km/h, and the bike can do 0-100 km/h in 2.7 seconds. The price? Around US$65,000.

LOTUS C-01 “It’s too gorgeous to ride!” And worth the wait for those who got one of the 100 bikes, sold for US$137k a piece, as they now sell at auction for up to $450k. IF they come up for sale. Designed by Daniel Simon who created the lightcycles in the Tron reboot, this bike is actually not built by Lotus but, under license, by the German motorsports firms Kodewa and the Holzer Group. It came in a variety of Lotus-connected liveries. 200 hp, 1,195 cc 2-cylinder 4-stroke engine, mated with a 6-gear jaw-type shift transmission.

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VANGUARD Conceived, engineered and built in New York City, Vanguard is a brand new and distinct American motorcycle brand. According to the company it will go into production in 2018. Pre-order it now! Appr. US$30,000.

DUCATI SuperSport

Bandit9 is a Chinese motorcycle customizing shop based out of Beijing and run by “Bandit Chief” Daryl Villanueva.

DUCATI SUPERSPORT S Ducati has resurrected the SuperSport model name. Two versions will be available, both with the the 937cc Testastretta 11-degree engine from the Hypermotard line. The liquid-cooled engine makes 113 horsepower and 71 foot-pounds of torque, and is housed in a Ducatitrademark trellis frame. The pictured “S” features Ohlins suspension front and rear, along with the addition of an up/down quickshifter and rear seat cover. US$15,000.

The entry-level engine package produces over twice the horsepower and torque of a contemporary supercar. With the larger engine set-up (2x1350hp), it is over four times more powerful than a McLaren MP412C. www.vectorpowerboats.com

MV AGUSTA BRUTALE 800 RR MV Agusta’s naked three-cylinder Brutale 800 RR has been updated for 2017 with new styling as well as engine and electronics improvements. It will get a 140bhp engine along with new forged wheels and updated electronics. Available in two new colours, but the company has yet to announce pricing.

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WELCOME TO CANADA THE MAJESTIC WIDER 150 SUPERYACHT. When we saw the WIDER 150 at her world premiere at last year’s Monaco Yacht Show we immediately fell in love with the design and layout of this Italian masterpiece. Constructed entirely in aluminium, the elegant silhouette of the WIDER 150 was created by Fulvio De Simoni in collaboration with Tilli Antonelli and the inhouse WIDER design team. Enhancing enjoyment of the marine environment is the fundamental driving force behind all WIDER designs, and the WIDER 150 makes no exception. It boasts more than 350m² of external areas, offering numerous relaxation venues in direct connection to the sea, for the owner and guests to enjoy. And thanks to its floating launching system, the stern of the WIDER 150 can be converted into a spacious garage ideal for carrying the WIDER 32.

flexibility and a genuine indoor-outdoor experience; large floorto-ceiling windows which run throughout the main lounge area, allowing sunlight to flood in and provide panoramic views of the sea, and an upper deck that features a saloon and dining area with sliding doors to the outside that can be hidden from view allowing for an indoor-outdoor dining experience. This mega-yacht is truly a home away from home that offers all of the comforts you demand while at sea. The full beam owner’s suite includes a study, walk-in wardrobe for him and her as well as a bathroom with 3m shower and bath. And the custom-designed, push-button sea terrace offers a truly unique position to enjoy breakfast or early evening drinks in complete privacy. The guest accommodation is equally generous, meaning the WIDER 150 is as well suited for charter as for the owner’s friends.

Most notable is the spectacular beach club – a 90m² leisure space right on the water – with a 7m seawater swimming pool. Both the pool and the size of the beach club are unique among yachts of this length.

The WIDER 150 is powered by a diesel electric propulsion system. Four inline variable speed diesel generators, combined with a state-of-the-art Power Management System and the latest battery technology, serve the hotel and propulsion requirements of the vessel. This system optimizes the use of one or more generators producing just as much power as is necessary at any given time. This results in greater efficiency from the engines, less consumption and therefore extended cruising range.

But there is so much more on this estate on the water. A sky lounge that includes electrically-operated glass doors, offering

Oh, right, our title. Yes, the proud new owner of this yacht is Canadian. Lucky fellow, eh?

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There is a good reason why more yachts are built in Italy every year than anywhere else in the world.

10 guests accomodations in 5 cabins. 4 crew accommodations for 8 + 1 for Captain. Length (LOA): 47,05 m (154’ 2”) Beam: 8,60 m (28’ 3”) Draft (Half Load): 2,20 m (7’ 3”) Gross Tonnage: 484 GT Hull and Superstructure: Aluminium 5083 Fuel Capacity: 45.000 L (11.888 gal) Electric motors: 2x 531 kW Maximum speed: 14.1 kn (Range: 2.000 nm) Cruising speed: 13 kn Range: (2.500 nm) Ecological speed: 10 kn (Range: 4.700 nm)

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Luxurious French Riviera Cruise & Formula 1 Grand Prix Package

EXPERIENCE THE THRILL AND AMBIANCE IN MONACO DURING THE WEEKEND OF THE GRAND PRIX DE MONACO. This 9-night cruise and adventure begins on May 22 with Silversea Spirit departing from Barcelona, sailing along the French Riviera with stops at several exciting ports. Visit Sete, the Venice of France - an unpretentious port offering a sensuous taste of the Mediterranean, before overnighting in Cannes during the International Film Festival, where celebrity spotting is an art form. The next stop is in Ajaccio, France on the Island of Corsica, where you can visit the home of Napoléon Bonaparte. After an evening of incredible dining on the Silversea Spirit, you will arrive fully refreshed in the luxurious port of Monte Carlo, Monaco for the weekend. Much like the finely tuned race cars, your timing is perfect, just in time for the start of the annual Grand Prix Formula 1, the marquee of the Formula One racing circuit! For the next 2 days, immerse yourself in this exciting weekend of Formula 1 racing, and witness the crowning of the next checkered flag winner on Sunday, before cruising out of Monaco’s magnificent marina under moonlight. The final segment of this memorable voyage takes you to the spectacular Italian Riviera, visiting first Portofino, a real jewel of the Mediterranean. Then, off to Livorno, which is the port city for Florence, home of Michelangelo’s David and the best gelato, as well as a stone’s throw from the world’s only true outlet stores for Prada, Gucci, Salvatore Ferragamo and other top Italian fashion houses. You will then be fashionably dressed for your arrival into Rome at the port of Civitavecchia. This decadent lifestyle is an unforgettable experience. To book your spot on this cruise, please contact our Cruiseshipcenters booking agent at 604.681.7327 or email us at paradise@cruiseshipcenters.com.

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WHAT’S INCLUDED •

Intimate ultra-luxury ship for 540 guests

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Spacious suites with butler service

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Open seating and speciality restaurants

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Champagne, wines and spirits served throughout the ship

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In-suite bar with your preferred beverages

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Exclusive partnership with Relais & Bhateaux

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Onboard gratuities

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Free WIFI for every guest

KurSpa

A wor away... ld West Coast Rate Includes: PromoCode RESIDENT • • • • • • • •

Luxury Accommodation Daily Hot European-inspired Buﬀet Breakfast Resort-wide Wireless Internet Valet Underground Parking Access to our 40,000 sq.ft. KurSpa: 7 Aromatherapy Steams and Saunas Outdoor Inﬁnity Pool, Indoor Pool, Hot Pool Kneipp Water Therapy, Serenity & Tea Room

Sparkling Hill Resort is North America’s leading European health and wellness resort and spa, located in British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley. With an unparalleled setting situated on top of a granite hilltop overlooking the vast Lake Okanagan and the Monashee Mountains, the 149 room wellness resort will inspire and introduce guests to a whole new meaning of whole body wellness. 3.5 million Swarovski crystals are integrated into every element of its design. Relax and rejuvenate at Sparkling Hill Resort with one of their intoductory health and wellness packages. With over 100 treatments offered in their 40,000 sq.ft. European-inspired KurSpa and luxury accommodation, they are sure to provide an unforgettable wellness experience. Visit SparklingHill.com/Concierge to book today.

Okanagan Valley ~ Vernon, BC

1.877.275.1556 SparklingHill.com/Concierge

Enchanting Paradise Sri Lanka & the Maldives. A vacation tailored to suit your passions.

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D 86

o you have a bucket list? The things you want to experience and accomplish in your life? For a lot of us, traveling is part of this list. Our world is truly magnificent, and travel is a privilege and one of our greatest treasures.

the ultimate dream of luxury and exclusive tranquility. But better make this dream become a reality soon: The Maldives is the world’s lowest lying nation, at just 1.3 metres above sea level. With global sea levels rising rapidly due to unpredictable climate changes, the islands may disappear from the world in the not-toodistant future.

Called the “most romantic place on earth,” the Maldives is a tropical nation in the Indian Ocean composed of 26 ringshaped atolls. These atolls are made up of more than 1,000 coral islands, and together, they’re one of the top paradise destinations in the world. Villas on stilts, crystalline waters with beautiful shades of blue, swaying palm trees, and sparkling white sand under the limitless blue skies -

So start planning and make a trip to this paradise on Earth before it’s gone forever. And maybe combine it with a trip to Sri Lanka?

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With its grand temples, intricate ruins, beautiful gardens and leafy wildlife parks, Sri Lanka has a rich, intriguing culture and is less than a hour and a half away from the Maldives.

Hong Kong & Sri Lanka

To reach Sri Lanka from Vancouver, you will most likely take the Cathay Pacific red-eye flight that connects in Hong Kong. And why not spend a day or two in the vibrant global financial hub with its skyscraper-studded skyline? Enjoy some of the world’s best shopping, including the famous night markets and an amazing cuisine. From Hong Kong you will reach Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka, in less than six hours. Casa Colombo, a gated and private luxury boutique hotel with 12 suites in a contemporary designer style, is housed in a 200-year old colonial mansion and is situated only 45 minutes away from the airport. Built by one of the wealthiest Indian trading families at the

time, Casa Colombo is adorned with acres of Italian and Indian mosaic floors, carved arches, moulded ceilings and Moorish styled balconies. There is no reception desk, but you do get a personal butler for your suite, who will take care of everything from getting you checked in to bringing you drinks by the pool. Your butler will even help you organize trips to exciting destinations like the ancient kingdom of Kandy or the colonial Galle Fort, which are both an easy 3 hour drive from Colombo. Alternatively, there is the option of renting a helicopter to experience the beauty of Sri Lanka from the sky. You can fly to any part of the island in less than an hour. From the Colombo Fort Railway Station, you can board an authentic British colonial train and travel along the coastline or up through the centre of the island and drink in the breathtaking scenery of the golden beaches or the lush greenery of the tea plantations in the cooler climes of the hills.

The Maldives

A visit to the Maldives is a dream come true. Each resort is a private enclave perched on an individual island, providing its occupants with exclusive tranquility. Upon arrival at Malé International Airport, you will receive a personal welcome from your resort of choice. The Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort & Spa, the only Maldivian resort located south of the equator, has an airport representative who will escort you to the Executive Lounge. While you refresh, relax and take advantage of the food and beverages

on offer, the airport representative will coordinate your connecting experience by private jet or the Shangri-La’s own speedboat. We highly recommend the ultimate luxury retreat - a water villa, built on stilts in the resort’s lagoon. Connected to the island by a timber walkway, each water villa offers 1,800 sq. ft. with incredible views of the Indian Ocean. Just imagine lazing in your water villa on a brilliant tropical afternoon, enjoying the subtle breeze as you reflect upon the distant horizon, where the azure waters meet a sapphirecoloured sky. Most resorts offer an extensive selection of land and sea activities, tailored to suit your passions. But you have the best activity right at your own doorstep: The Maldives, with its vibrant and diverse marine life, is considered to be one of the best snorkelling and diving locations in the world. With the colourful arrays of corals, sea turtles, reef sharks, stingrays, and a multitude of other underwater species, it is almost like swimming in a gigantic aquarium. Spa treatments, tennis, golfing and fishing will fill your days easily, and in the evening you will experience some of the finest cuisine with the ocean as a backdrop. The Maldives is truly one of the best vacation destinations in the world. Life is short - and with the islands threatened by rising sea levels, we suggest to get this off your bucket list soon!

SRI LANKA & THE MALDIVES: THINGS TO KNOW You will need a tourist visa to enter Sri Lanka, which you should get before you travel. No pre-arrival visa is required for the Maldives, but you will receive a free thirty day visa upon arrival. Sri Lanka and the Maldives are close to the Equator, so temperatures remain fairly constant year-round. We recommend to travel between December and March. Sri Lanka: The best time to visit the west and southwest coast is from December to March. In the Maldives some rainfalls occur frequently during June and July, which is the perfect season for surfers to ride the legendary swells. December-April is considered as the dry season with plenty of sunshine. OUR HOTEL & RESORT RECOMMENDATIONS Casa Colombo. Sri Lanka. www.casacolombo.com Shangri-La Villingili Resort & Spa. Maldives. www.shangri-la.com/male/villingiliresort www.mahalimzuri.virgin.com

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How To Sell Your Home For Top Dollar A 3 Step Guide by Jesse Dean Cook

Do you find it impossible to attend a dinner party in Vancouver without having someone bring up real estate? While the Canucks and the weather used to jockey for the number one topic, all things real estate is now consuming the lion’s share of our daily discussions. As a REALTOR®, I have so many people that come up to me asking for advice on how they can best capitalize on their largest investment - their home.

possible in Vancouver’s competitive market.

Choose the Right REALTOR® While everyone’s home is unique and requires a well thought out strategy, if you follow these three simple steps you’ll give yourself the very best chance of selling at the highest price

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When buying or selling a property, it is so important to ensure the REALTOR® you use is an expert in the area that

“While the Canucks and the weather used to jockey for the number one topic, all things real estate seemingly now consume the lion’s share of our daily discussions.” you are selling in. Personally, while I wish I could represent everyone I meet it would not be in their best interest for me to do so. I specialize in very specific markets within Vancouver and pride myself on being an expert within those borders. If I have a client that is looking to sell or buy outside of these areas, I will look to connect them with a trusted associate who I know is an expert in that particular market. Too often I see buyers/sellers represented by REALTORS® who are out of their element. Perhaps these REALTORS® are friends or family members and you feel obligated to work with them, but you’re really doing yourself a disservice by not choosing a REALTOR® who is an expert in the area. It’s like injuring your knee and instead of using a surgeon who specializes in knees, you opt to go with a brain surgeon. True, they are both surgeons but given the choice I’m sure you would always choose the surgeon whose expertise you specifically need. So my number one piece of advice is to choose a REALTOR® who specializes in your area and leave the friends and family connections for Sunday dinners. When it comes to the most significant transaction of your life, get the best person for the job.

Have Your Home De-Cluttered and/or Staged. I have been really fortunate to have the chance to see inside some of the most luxurious properties not only in Vancouver, but also around the world. As beautiful as these properties are, often times the home owners get trapped in acquiring ‘things’ whether it is from their travels, gifts from family members or nostalgic items. They personalize their homes with their collections, but to a new buyer, it just appears cluttered. When preparing to sell a luxury home the sellers must remove themselves emotionally from the process and see it as a pure business transaction. A great tip is to have your home mimic a 5 star hotel by providing the same tranquility, cleanliness, sleek furnishings and lack of personal effects. This allows potential buyers to envision themselves living in the space.

a professional. If you have enough storage in your home, great, but if not, I highly recommend renting a storage locker to pack up these non-essential items. This will allow for better photos and video to draw in potential buyers. You only have one chance for your home to create a great first impression and to capture the hearts of your potential buyers. So, follow my advice about de-cluttering and possibly staging your house to ensure it shows at its very best!

Make Sure The Price is Right In the famous words of Bob Barker, “The Price Is Right!” Making sure that you list your property for the correct price from the start allows you to win the big prize in the end. Simply put, when you list your house at the correct price you will always end up with the quickest and the highest priced sale possible. It is human nature that everyone thinks their home is worth more than it really is. “My house is simply amazing,” “This location is the best,” “My view is so much better than my neighbors” and so on. Buyers are more educated than ever before and when a new listing comes on the market that is over priced, it will inevitably sit there and eventually go stale. Time kills all deals, and this is why it is imperative to work with your areas expert REALTOR® in determining the most accurate price that will garner you the largest profit margin. If you are looking to sell your luxury property for the highest price possible , remember to: 1. Choose the Right REALTOR® 2. Have the Home De-Cluttered and/or Staged 3. Make Sure the Price is Right Whether Buying or Selling in Vancouver, feel free to contact me at anytime at 604-506-5174. If I cannot help you I’ll be sure to personally connect you with an expert in your area who can.

A good REALTOR® will be honest with you and let you know if your furniture and décor best serve your home, or, if temporarily you should have some rooms staged by

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Keith Trusler Canadian Brand Ambassador

ong before whisky making was legal in the Scottish Highlands, distillers like George Smith would have to smuggle their whisky out of the Glenlivet Valley to sell it to the masses. Using the cover of darkness to avoid the excise men, smugglers would lead their pack horses through a series of trails down to markets in the town of Perth. At the time, the Scottish whisky industry was controlled by two key families in the Lowlands: The Stein family and the Philip family. While these families enjoyed great success in the Lowlands producing mass quantities of low quality whisky, George Smith was quietly producing what would come to be known as some of the finest whisky ever produced in Scotland. One of the most significant advancements in Highland whisky involved a new still shape and slow, careful distillation, ensuring a smoother and higher quality spirit than had been known in the lowlands. When the Excise Act of 1824 finally brought affordable licensing to the distillers of the Highlands, George Smith seized the opportunity and created the first legal distillery in the valley of Glenlivet. It is certain the single malt whisky industry would not be what it is today without the perseverance of George Smith and the tenacious smugglers like him that lived in the Scottish Highlands. The Smuggler’s Trail 1.5 oz. The Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve .5 oz. Bitter Truth Apricot Liqueur .75 oz. Bitter Truth E.X.R .5 oz. Lillet Blanc 2 dashes Scrappy’s aromatic bitters Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass and stir. Strain into a cherry wood smoked coupe.

THE DAVID BROWN “James Bond, with two double bourbons inside him, sat in the final departure lounge of Miami Airport and thought about life and death”. – Goldfinger by Ian Fleming

The David Brown Cocktail: 6 oz. Oatmeal Stout 1 oz. premium bourbon 1 oz. amaro liqueur ½ oz. honey syrup* angostura bitters

Instructions:

Add bourbon, amaro, honey syrup, and 3 dashes of bitters to a shaker filled with ice. Shake and strain into a chilled brandy snifter glass. Gently top off with the oatmeal stout. Garnish with an orange slice or nothing at all! *Honey Syrup ¼ cup honey ¼ cup water Add honey and water to a small saucepan. Warm until honey is dissolved. Store in refrigerator for up to two weeks.

created & presented by DESIGN TO DINE experience food entertainment vancouver - bc 778.997.0702 www.designtodine.ca

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photography: Caitlyn Van Nice car: The “Q Car” www.theqcar.com Sir David Brown (1904 – 1993) was an English entrepreneur who acquired Aston Martin in 1947. The legendary ‘DB’ series of Aston Martin cars, including the famous James Bond car DB5, were named after Brown using his initials.

IMPERIAL REIGN The $185,000 Aevum Service Ritual In Australia, Penfolds is as iconic as the Sydney Opera House. The luxury wine brand has an almost cult-like following, especially in China and Hong Kong. The Penfolds Grange Imperial 2012 vintage is considered to be one of the best wines in the world, and is priced accordingly. A 750ml bottle of Imperial can be yours for just $850. Not expensive enough for you? How about spending $185,000 (and that is US dollar) for the same wine in a 6-liter bottle and a (rather fancy) decanter? For most wines, $850 a bottle is outrageously expensive. But this isn’t just any old wine. It’s a very special edition. Penfolds has collaborated with the French glassmaker, SaintLouis, to design a special decanter called the Penfolds Aevum Imperial Service Ritual. This special-edition decanter marks the first time in Saint-Louis’ 431-year history of handcrafting crystal objects that the glassmaker has collaborated with a global brand outside of Europe. Crafted in fine crystal and supported by a metal structure, the three foot tall, 50kg blown crystal decanter offers a perfectly balanced pouring experience. “It’s really a piece of art,” Saint-Louis President Jerome St. Lavergnolle says. “We have more than 1,800 simple diamond cuts, one by one.” Just five Imperials of 2012 Penfolds Grange are being released globally. For those of you who prefer a more modestly sized vessel for a 2012 Grange Imperial (or any other wine), Penfolds offers a smaller and self-swirling Saint-Louis decanter, perched sideways on a magnetic base (pictured on the right). It is also affordable at $2,100.

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VINOTEQUE

by Barry McNabb & Jiaying (Tifa) Wang

1998 Château Haut-Brion, Pessac-Léognan Magnum $1800

Ranked as First Growth in 1855 Bordeaux Classification system, Château Haut-Brion was built in 1549, one the of oldest chateaux in France. Unlike the other four First Growths in Médoc, the vinyards of Château HautBrion are planted in superbly drained gravel soils that provide an almost ideal supply of moisture to optimise fruit ripening. The 1998 vintage was prodigious and noble, with beautiful ruby color with hint of garnet toward the edge. Layers of aromas and flavors slowly evolved from the nose to palate: savory, smoke, earth, minerals, lead pencil, black currants, cherries, dried prunes and spice. The wine is rich, full-bodied, with amazing balance of ripe tannins and sweetness, and super long finish.

BORDEAUX (FRANCE) The Bordeaux region of France, centred on the city of Bordeaux and covering the whole area of the Gironde department, has a total vineyard area of over 120,000 hectares, making it the largest wine growing area in France.

THE 1998 VINTAGE A classic and fair vintage, the late September rain in Médoc yielded crop of variable quality, especially for Cabernet Sauvignon. To the south, Graves did better with early-ripened Merlot which produced wine of suppler and riper tannin that will benefit from decades of cellaring.

Wine Advocate-Parker: 96+/100 MW Jancis Robinson: 18+/20

1998 Château Pichon-Longueville Baron, Pauillac 2nd Cru Magnum $750

Ranked as Second Growth in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification system, Château Pichon-Longueville Baron is located in the south of Pauillac, Médoc. 1998 vintage is credited by Robert Parker in Wine Advocate as: “A definitive Pauillac, the dense purple-colored 1998 Pichon-Baron offers up a sweet bouquet of licorice, smoke, asphalt, blackberries, and creme de cassis. In the mouth, the wine is elegant rather than full-blown, with medium body, sweet fruit, nice texture on the attack and mid-palate, and moderate tannin in the long finish.”

Wine Advocate-Parker: 90/100 Wine & Spirits: 95/1001

1998 Château Palmer, Margaux 3rd Cru Magnum $1100

Ranked as Third-Growth in 1855 Bordeaux Classification system, though nowadays many people consider Palmer as a Super Second Bordeaux status for its exceptional quality and reputation. Bordeaux Traders commented this vintage as: “A classic Margaux, the 1998 Palmer has put on weight and fleshed out during its elevage in barrel. It displays a dense purple color as well as a sumptuous bouquet of black fruits, licorice, melted asphalt, pain grille, and a touch of acacia flowers. Full-bodied, with brilliant definition, this blend of equal parts Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, with a dollop of Petit Verdot, will age well for 20-30 years. It is one of the Medoc’s, as well as the Margaux appellation’s finest wines of the vintage.” Wine Advocate-Parker: 91/100 The Wine Cellar Insider-Jeff Leve: 90/100

1983 Château Rieussec, Sauternes Magnum $400

Ranked as Sauternes Premier Cru in Graves Classification system, under the same ownership as Château Lafite-Rothschild, this Sauternes is generally regarded as being second only in weight and power to Château d’Yquem. Having benefited from a high proportion of new oak aging, the 1983 vintage is at its peak today: loads of marmalade, dried apricot, crème brûlée , buttered popcorn, candied citrus peels, caramel, dried banana, honey, dried flowers, sweet spice...The color is deep gold leaning to amber, balanced deliciously of acidity and sweetness. Ideal for any gatherings!

Wine Advocate-Parker: 92/100 Wine Spectator: 94/100

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EXQUISITE EXCEPTIONAL EXTRAORDINARY

EXCLUSIVE

EXPRESSIVE EXPERIENCE

exnihilovineyards.com 1525 CAMP ROAD, LAKE COUNTRY BC V4V 1K1

Ask the ... Concierge! An Insider’s Guide to Vancouver JARREN MACDOUGALL Shangri-La Hotel Born and raised in Vancouver, Jarren MacDougall is the Chef Concierge of Vancouver’s only five diamond property. He draws on over 20 years of customer service experience and has been with Shangri-La Hotel, Vancouver for six out of the hotel’s nearly eight year history. The highlight of his days are “meeting travellers from around the world, and showing them the diversity that this city has to offer.” THE BEST PLACE FOR BRUNCH Medina is still a favourite, and I continue to recommend it year over year because every guest that comes back always reports on how great it is. Fable Diner on West Broadway and Main street has an incredible casual brunch, plus they make their hollandaise sauce from olive oil so it’s very light and fluffy. THE BEST PLACE FOR COFFEE Revolver and Timbertrain Coffee. Both in Gastown; superb coffee and very friendly staff. THE BEST PLACE FOR A ROMANTIC DATE If you want a view of the Coal Harbour then I would suggest Five Sails with amazing views of the north shore and coal harbor area. For classic French cuisine with an old world feel I would suggest Le Crocodile. Pick a quiet corner with a bottle of champagne. THE BEST PLACE TO DINE Presently I am singing the praises of The Mackenzie room. The cuisine is interesting and the execution is incredible. Their cocktails and wine program are excellent. THE BEST PLACE FOR AN AMAZING DRINK The cocktail program at the Pourhouse always offer consist craft cocktails in a relaxed setting. If you like darker spirits I would suggest their Sazerac, or my new favorite the Avenue and Davenport. THE BEST PLACE FOR LIVE MUSIC Guilt and Co has an eclectic array of musical acts every night. For something more intimate I enjoy the jazz at Uva Wine & Cocktail Bar. A HIDDEN TREASURE IN VANCOUVER I recently found this incredible concept store called 7e7 on West 7th Ave. It is a concept store, without the traditional merchandising, so when you walk in you enter another world of beautifully selected objects in candlelight room. From the outside it does not look like much but part of the beauty of this store is that you would not expect what you enter from the exterior of the building making a true hidden treasure.

ICONIC CONCIERGE