Iconic Concierge Vancouver Spring 2019

SPRING FALL 2018 2019

COMPLIMENTARY COMPLIMENTARY SUMMER 2014

ICONIC ICONIC

THE THE LIFESTYLE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE MAGAZINE FOR FOR THE THEAFFLUENT AFFLUENT GENTLEMAN GENTLEMAN

VANCOUVER VANCOUVER

NEW WATCHES INTRODUCING

THE MANLY MAN TAILORED TO THRILL

BMW 8 SERIES EXPLAINED

BLOCKCHAIN & CRYPTOCURRENCY

HEIDI

HARALDSON THE HOLY GRAIL

FERRARI 250 GTO

The Champagne and Beyond - A Trip Europe Tequila & Mezcal - A Trip to to Mexico

VIVIDLY BRILLIANT Created in 18K gold with genuine emeralds and diamonds at Lugaro in-house West Vancouver studio.

VANCOUVER 1139 West Georgia Street, V6E3G4

SEEK MORE

sunseeker.com

SEEK MORE MANHATTAN 66

MANHATTAN 52

PREDATOR 50

131 YACHT

Sunseeker Vancouver is now open in Coal Harbour.

Great Britain’s largest boat builder with a range from 50’ to 161’.

See the show debut of the Sunseeker Manhattan 52 and Manhattan 66 at Vancouver International Boat Show, in the water at Granville Island.

M&P Yacht Centre | (604) 692-0333 510 Nicola Street, Unit #110 Vancouver, BC V6G 3J7 www.mpyachtcentre.com

SUNSEEKER.COM

PREDATOR 50

MANHATTAN 66

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publisher’s LETTER

welcome spring!

it’s been too long since we felt the warmth of the sun here in vancouver. sure, most of us spent some time somewhere south in the last couple of months, even if just for a few days. but it sure is nice to have the blue sky back, to get to walk the streets without a thick coat and an umbrella, and to welcome the boating season. our own little ‘getaway’ was to mexico. no, not to a fancy oceanside resort, but to tequila and oaxaca. we were on a mission to sample the best tequila and mezcal out there. mission accomplished. we had an amazing time, and can only encourage you to follow in our footsteps. for those of you who don’t follow us on instagram (you should! iconic_concierge) you may not know that robbie has challenged me to go on a week-long ‘little roadtrip.’ the ‘coast2coast’ drive will go from vancouver to halifax. and here’s the kick - both of us have a budget of usd$15k. not bad? well, we not only have to buy a convertible for it, that money has to cover fuel and accommodation, too! stay tuned - it all is going down in july or early august.

olaf robrecht publisher olaf@iconic-concierge.com

we have also decided to introduce a new column. ‘the manly man’ will introduce men that have or had the reputation of a ‘real’ guy. the loner, the leader, the fighter, the outlaw. we have a long list of names who qualify for this column, but for this edition, we decided to start with paul newman. stay tuned for more. enjoy the magazine - we hope to see you at one of our many upcoming events. don’t be shy, come say ‘hi.’

exciting endeavors From our trip to Tequila and Oaxaca, to our photo shoot with our cover personality Heidi Haraldson - the last month have been pretty exciting. Especially considering that the first months of a new year are usually a bit slower - making it the best time to travel. South. Leaving the rain and the cold behind. Which are also the two main factors that we had to scout a stylish indoor location for our cover photo shoot with the Aston Martin. And sometimes the most unusual spots turn out to be the best. Third level, underground, combined with some great lighting - done! Thank you, Dave Hamilton. What a great picture!

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ICONIC CONCIERGE

Big Bang MP-11 Sapphire.

Scratch-resistant sapphire case. In-house manual-winding power reserve movement with 7 series-coupled barrels and a 14-day power reserve. Limited edition of 200 pieces.

ICONIC CONCIERGE

vol. 12 [2019]

www.iconic-concierge.com

WE JUST KEEP THEM THAT WAY

On the cover: Heidi Haraldson | photo: Dave Hamilton

PUBLISHER:

OLAF ROBRECHT olaf@iconic-concierge.com

AUTOMOTIVE EDITOR:

ROBBIE DICKSON

FASHION EDITOR:

JASON SARAI

LIFESTYLE EDITOR:

NATALIE LANGSTON

HEALTH & FITNESS EDITOR: CONTRIBUTING WRITERS:

PHOTOGRAPHY: COPY EDITOR: DESIGN/ LAYOUT: ADVERTISING SALES:

OLIVER FINLAY JASON BOUDREAU, KEITH TRUSLER, AMANDA WOOD, JESSE DEAN COOK, JASON SARAI, DR. CHRISTIAN BRIX, SOPHIE HABGOOD, JIM GORDON DAVE HAMILTON MIKE STRAUS YADA-YADA MEDIA please contact iconicconciergemagazine@gmail.com

iconic_concierge Iconic Concierge is published by

Printed in Canada.

barberandco

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ICONIC CONCIERGE

barberandco.com

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.

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 18 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.

CRAIG STOWE luxury events

Craig is recognized as Vancouver’s #1 creator and producer of luxury events bringing together affluent buyers and sellers of luxury brands in an engaging business social event setting.

He is the President of Luxury Alliance Group, Luxury & Supercar Weekend, Porsche Rally, Hublot Diamond Rally and VP of Partnerships for Pacific Polo Cup.

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ICONIC CONCIERGE

NATALIE LANGSTON

AMANDA WOOD

lifestyle editor

creative muse

Natalie is an accomplished Canadian TV Host and Lifestyle Expert for Global BC, Breakfast Television + JRfm. Fitness & Health Reporter for BC Living.

Freelance journalist and Emcee with a passion for all things Fitness, Fashion and Fun. Volunteer and Spokesperson for Dress for Success Vancouver, member of Ladies Who Lunch Global Network for female entrepreneurs and Style Ambassador for the Canadian Arts and Fashion Awards.

Amanda Wood is a professional jazz and pop singer, social influencer and real estate assistant to Jesse Dean Cook. She is soulful, sexy and sophisticated with a passion for travel and living life to the fullest. Amanda contributes to Iconic Concierge in many forms from writing, editing, modeling and general creative input.

JESSE DEAN COOK

JASON BOUDREAU CFP, CLU

luxury real estate specialist

wealth advisor

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.

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.

KEITH TRUSLER

BARRY McNABB

imbibing authority

wine expert

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.

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.

sport, health & fitness

OLIVER FINLAY

JIM GORDON LEETA LIEPINS

Having traveled the globe, working with pro teams & athletes in sports environments as diverse as F1, EPL soccer, NHL & ATP tennis, to attain peak performance, Oliver arrived in Vancouver for his PhD, exploring how the World’s best sports teams manage change initiatives. Passionate about human performance & sport’s impact on community, he highlights the industry’s latest & greatest developments.

They are the Hosts & Producers of the weekly, national TV show, “Our City Tonight”, which can been seen Sundays at 12:30pm on City TV. Each week they showcase Vancouver’s entertainment, nightlife, music, fashion, business, automotive, food & wine. You can also see past episodes on the “Our City Tonight” YouTube channel.

city experts

ICONIC CONCIERGE

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CONTENTS COVER

/ spring 2019 /

FEATURES

AUTOMOTIVE

18

42

Paul Newman

The Electric Hypercar

56

24

44

An Epic Trip to Mexico

Imaginative Images

The Redefinition of the Sports Car

30

51

SIHH, Baselword and Beyond

A Gentleman’s Sports Car

56

52

An Epic Trip to Mexico

Massive Performance. No Emissions.

102

Heidi Haraldson

Business Women of Vancouver

Tequila & Mezcal

COLUMNS

8

Publisher’s Letter

26

The Specter Journal You Want This!

74

Fragrances for a Leader How to smell like an Alpha

76

The Gentleman

They Should Have Taught You This In School

77

Financials

Legacy Is Yours to Lead

82

Real Estate

Vancouver Dream Estates

84

The Manly Man

Rides of the Wild

The Concept of Time

Tequila & Mezcal

70

Pininfarina Battista

BMW 8 Series

1988 AM V8 Vantage Volante

Energica EGO

Tequila & Mezcal

YACHTS

78

94

Blockchain & Cryptocurrency

Welcome To The West

The Difference ...

Decryption

Sunseeker

86

Forbidden Vancouver The Other Side of the City

94

AVIATION

Welcome to the West

98

108

99

Sunseeker Yachts

What Women Want

Forget Chocolate and Roses!

HondaJet Elite

Gulfstream G600

Real Estate

LoLo - Lower Lonsdale

108

What Women Want

Forget Chocolate and Roses!

110

Arts & Music

Vancouver’s Art Scene - Review

112

Our City Tonight Tableau Bar & Bistro

DESTINATIONS

56

Tequila & Mezcal An Epic Trip to Mexico

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EVENTS PERSONALITIES

18

Paul Newman The Manly Man

100

Karl Lagerfeld

102

Heidi Haraldson Business Women of Vancouver

22

Stefano Ricci Made-To-Measure

28

Bacchanalia Gala

40

Brian Jessel Cabriolet Gala

48

Aston Martin Red Bull Racing Formula One Event

90

TheXchange Party

30

56

CONTENTS

42

52

102

24

94

ICONIC CONCIERGE

17

THE

MANLY MAN

“

A man can only be judged by his actions, and not by his good intentions or his beliefs.

paul

NewmaN (1925 – 2008)

| SCREEN LEGEND | RACE CAR DRIVER | TEAM OWNER | PHILANTROPIST |

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ICONIC CONCIERGE

Paul Newman, wearing his legendary 1968 Rolex Daytona which sold for more than US$17 million at an auction in 2017.

(Douglas Kirkland – Corbis/ Rolex)

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First Steps Paul Leonard Newman, was born on January 26, 1925, in Shaker Heights, a prosperous southeastern residential suburb of Cleveland, Ohio. The second son of Theresa and Arthur Sigmund Newman, Sr., who ran a successful sporting goods store, Newman showed an early interest in theater and had his first role at the age of seven, playing the court jester in a school production of Robin Hood.

Other plays followed and at age 10 he performed at the Cleveland Play House in a production of Saint George and the Dragon, and was a notable actor and alumnus of their Curtain Pullers children’s theatre program. After graduating from Shaker Heights High School in 1943, he briefly Ohio University in Athens, Ohio, but was reportedly expelled. He moved on, enrolling in the Navy V-12 pilot training program at Yale University, but when diagnosed with colourblindless, served as a navy radio operator and gunner during World War II. Upon his discharge, he signed-up at Ohio’s Kenyon College, where he acted in a number of plays and completed his Bachelor of Arts in drama and economics in 1949.

“Too close to the cake. Also, no place to study.”

After his graduation, Paul Newman joined several summer stock companies and toured with them for a few months, but returned home following the death of his father in 1950.

He decided to run the family’s sportinggoods store for one year, and got married to his first wife, Jackie Witte, before he followed his original passion, attending the Yale School of Drama for one year. He left the program in 1952, and moved to New York City to study under Lee Strasberg at the Actors Studio, which he credited for his later acting success.

Living in in the St. George section of Staten Island, Newman made his Broadway debut in William Inge’s ‘Picnic.’ Here he met Joanne Woodward, an understudy, who he would eventually marry in 1958, becoming one of Hollywood’s most-enduring couples. His performance in Picnic not only led to a role in the original Broadway production of ‘The Desperate Hours’ in 1955, it also got the attention from Warner Brothers, who signed him for the 1954 movie ‘The Silver Chalice’. Newman would later claim the film was “the worst movie made in the 1950s.”

Despite his inauspicious film debut, Newman moved on, earning positive reviews

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ICONIC CONCIERGE

for his work in live television dramas, and almost appeared next to James Dean in ‘East of Eden’, after shooting a screen test with Dean for the role of Aron Trask.

Dean obviously won the role of Aron’s fraternal twin brother Cal, but Newman lost out to Richard Davalos. However, it didn’t stop Newman’s thriving career.

The same year, he co-starred with Eva Marie Saint and Frank Sinatra in a live— and color—television broadcast of Our Town, ironically, as a last-minute replacement for James Dean, who would be of influence in Newman’s acting career two more times, unfortunately in a tragic twist of fate. Newman was cast in two leading roles originally envisioned for James Dean: Billy the Kid in ‘The Left Handed Gun’ and Rocky Graziano in ‘Somebody Up There Likes Me’. Dean had died in an automobile collision in late September, 1955.

Paul Newman’s career skyrocketed. In 1958, he starred in Cat on a Hot Tin Roof (1958), opposite Elizabeth Taylor. The film was a huge box-office hit, earning Newman his first Academy Award nomination.

The same year, he starred in The Long, Hot Summer with Joanne Woodward, for which he won Best Actor at the 1958 Cannes Film Festival. The Young Philadelphians (1959), Exodus (1960), The Hustler (1961), Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969) with costar Robert Redford, which received seven Oscar nominations and was among the top-grossing films of the year, and The Sting (1973) are just a few of his major films. In 1986, twenty-five years after The Hustler, Newman reprised his role of “Fast Eddie” Felson in the Martin Scorsese film The Color of Money (1986), for which he won the Academy Award for Best Actor.

His last movie appearance was the role of a conflicted mob boss in 2002’s Road to Perdition, starring Tom Hanks, for which he was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.

Politics and Racing Newman used his celebrity status to call attention to political causes, including civil rights and nuclear proliferation. It earned him the nineteenth spot on Richard Nixon’s enemies list, after he supported politician Eugene McCarthy in 1968 and stating a strong opposition to the Vietnam War. Taking up auto racing while training at the Watkins Glen Racing School for the filming of Winning in 1969, Newman agreed in 1971 to star in and to host his first television special, Once Upon a Wheel, on the history of auto racing. It was

produced and directed by David Winters, with whom Newman purchased a number of racing cars. His first professional event as a racer was in 1972 at Thompson International Speedway, were he quietly entered as “P.L. Newman” – a name that would stick in the racing community.

During the 1976 auto racing season, Newman became interested in forming a professional auto racing team, leading to the “Newman Freeman Racing” team with business partner Bill Freeman. They began a long and successful partnership in the Can-Am series, which they won in 1979. Newman was also associated with Freeman’s established Porsche racing team, which allowed them to compete in racing events, including the prestigious Sebring 12-hour car race. Later, in 1983, Newman co-founded Newman/Haas Racing with Carl Haas, and became a partner in the Atlantic Championship team Newman Wachs Racing. Paul Newman, who famously had said that hewould quit “when I embarrass myself”, competed into his 80s, winning at Lime Rock at 81, making him the oldest driver to ever win a major professional auto race.

Newman’s Own & Philantrophy Newman founded Newman’s Own, a line of food products, in 1982 with writer A. E. Hotchner. A food enthusiast who would dress his own salads in restaurants, Newman started the brand with a homemade salad dressing he prepared with Hotchner and gave to friends as gifts. They loved it and encouraged them to commercialize it for sale. Newman established a policy that all proceeds, after taxes, would go to Newman’s Own Foundation, a private non-profit foundation which in turn gives the money to various educational and charitable organizations. As of late 2018, the franchise has donated in excess of US$500 million. Newman once joked that “the embarrassing thing is that the salad dressing is outgrossing my films.”

Late Life Newman became known to a much younger audience again when he voiced Doc Hudson, a retired race car, in Disney/Pixar’s Cars. It was his final role for a major feature film. Paul Newman retired in 2007, saying, “You start to lose your memory, you start to lose your confidence, you start to lose your invention. So I think that’s pretty much a closed book for me. .” That year he was diagnosed with cancer. Paul Newman died on September 26, 2008.

out & about MADE-TO-MEASURE EVENT STEFANO RICCI VANCOUVER BOUTIQUE

On Thursday, March 14th, Stefano Ricci CEO Niccolo Ricci and Manuel Bernaschek, President of the SR Vancouver Boutique, had invited to an Italian Made-ToMeasure tailoring experience and cocktail party. It was an extremely limited and by appointment only opportunity, as Stefano Ricci’s master tailor came from Italy for this one-day event.

Although it is one of the newest luxury brands that have opened in Vancouver’s ‘Luxury Zone’, it didn’t take the family owned and run luxury menswear house long to become one of the top status symbols in men’s-fashion in the city. The boutique features the complete line of menswear, as well as accessories including leather goods, fragrances, pens, ties, bags and the famous Stefano Ricci belts.

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HOW LONG IS FOREVER?

E B I L L I O N – WAT C H & J E W E L R Y 8 1 YO R K V I L L E AV E N U E M 5R 1C 1 , TORONTO T.+1 4 1 6 9 6 0 5 5 0 0 W. E B I L L I O N .C A

RIDES WILD of the

Imaginative Images by Swiss Digital Artist Frédéric Müller 24

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At this point you may have heard about the MB&F M.A.D.Gallery - a captivating universe of kinetic art where Horological Machines and Mechanical Art Devices reign supreme. MB&F’s founder and Creator Maximilian Büsser explains the concept behind the gallery and the common thread running through the fascinating pieces in the collection: “We saw the M.A.D.Gallery as the perfect platform to showcase our own Machines as well as other pieces of kinetic art by other creators whom we greatly admire.

MB&F’s Machines tell time, but they don’t just tell time. They are unique examples of mechanical horology but, more than that, they are pieces of three-dimensional kinetic art. The same goes for all the creators featured in the gallery: their craft transcends a practical purpose and their creations assume the status of artworks.

“Thanks to the M.A.D.Gallery, we are meeting like-minded artists operating in parallel worlds; people who think like us and share our passion for creating mechanical art.” There are currently four galleries: Geneva, Taipei, Dubai and Hong Kong.

“Rides of the Wild,” a new addition to the galleries, is a collection of eight works by Frédéric Müller, a young and talented Swiss artist with an extraordinarily creative mind. In this series, Müller brings his imagination to life, using his expertise in 3D art to morph classic cars into complementary transport for animals of the wild including a lion, a hippo, and an alligator. There’s even a ride for a panda!

An Aston Martin transforms into a hippopotamus while a Ford truck turns into a lion…these images have our minds shifting gears.

“I want to create pieces that viewers can lose themselves in, look at for longer than just a couple seconds, and jump-start their own imaginations,” Müller explained. “I am always looking to create something that is a bit special, that hasn’t been thought of before, or that has a special vibe to it.”

“We always try to incorporate something that makes us, and hopefully those who discover our pieces, smile. Frédéric Müller’s work does exactly that!” Max Büsser, founder of MB&F and the M.A.D.Gallery, enthuses. “Not only is his work impressive and based on vintage cars, a theme close to my heart, but it recaptures a sense of whimsical and childhood that we need to hold on to.”

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THE MACALLAN M BLACK MMXVII Since its introduction in 2013, each release of the limited edition Macallan M series of single-malt whiskies has been bottled in a handblown Lalique crystal decanter.

The Macallan M Black MMXVII, bottled in 2017, is the sixth installment in the ongoing M series, and for the first time,

There you go! And don’t worry - this will stay our little secret. We won’t tell anyone! www.versace.com

www.themacallan.com

LOUIS VUITTON 55 DUFFLE BAG

LOVE X ROBOT = LOVOT

Louis Vuitton and designer Marc Newson have teamed up again, presenting a 10-piece set that is composed of two styles—a rolling Horizon Soft Duffle 55 (from US$2,810) and the Horizon Soft 55 (from US$3,100)—which come in an array of colorways including orange, yellow, pink, black, gray and the classic brown LV print.

Each case also features a TSA-approved lock system and water-repellent fabric. www.louisvuitton.com

ICONIC CONCIERGE

“Oh, great, another $90k belt?” Well, it sure looks like it, but we were amazed to find out that this new Versace Embellished Medusa Belt won’t break the bank. At all. It will fool your buddies for less than $800.

Created in gold-tone hardware, this Italian-made leather belt is adorned with Swarovski crystal embellishments instead of real diamonds, and is available in several different sizes.

comes individually numbered in a six-sided Lalique crystal decanter fashioned from high-grade black crystal. Only 725 Macallan MMXVII black crystal decanters are available worldwide, priced at US$6,995.

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VERSACE MEDUSA BELT

Seriously - a plush toy? Well, a US$5,500 plush toy! Actually, you will get a pair of them for this eye-watering price-tag, and they will likely cause twice as much chaos in your home. The robots by Japanese robotics startup Groove X are loaded with advanced technology such as Emotional Robotics, touch sensors throughout their body, and a six-layered eye display. “A robot that makes people truly happy by its innocent character and charming gestures that feels satisfying to cuddle.” lovot.life

BARGHEST GAMR After 18 months of design and hand engineering, Barghest, an engineering company based out of Los Angeles, has released their first high-performance vehicle.

Unlike traditional bikes, this carbon fiber Harley-Davidson powered reverse-trike leans into corners and performs like a motorcycle, but with the stability of a car. Each Barghest is the only one of her kind, completely unique. So if you want a new toy for your garage, better get in touch with the company and place an order. www.barghestmotive.com

RICHARD MILLE TOURBILLON POCKET WATCH RM 020 In 2001, Richard Mille gave the world a tourbillon watch, which was quite clearly ahead of its time. The bridge was made out of titanium and the tourbillon’s endstones made from ceramic. It was also the first time a tourbillon watch had a transparent dial, leaving the movement visible.

Then, a few years later, we got another masterpiece - the Richard Mille Tourbillon Pocket Watch. Every bit a pocket watch as much as it is a Richard Mille timepiece, it is not your grandfather’s pocket watch.

With its middle case and chain in titanium, its plate made of carbon nanofibres, its central bridge crafted from rigidified Arcap, and the use of zircon stones for the tourbillon carriage, one cannot say that the RM 020 is a nostalgic looking timekeeper. The watch chain comes with a quick attach/release mechanism, and it can also be used as a pendulette de bureau with the additional desk stand.

Most people did not know this ultimate “time machine”, exists. The best part? The “perfect synthesis of the greatest 18th century horological values in combination with 21st century technology and aesthetics” is still available! All you need is US$480,000. www.richardmille.com

DIAMOND-STUDDED 18K DOMINO SET The Lieb Manufaktur, a company based in a sleepy town in the Baden-Württemberg region in Germany, are experts in making top quality board game sets for chess, backgammon, and dominoes. And they decided that it is time for the world’s most expensive domino set.

It features 28 dominos made of 2.4kgs of 18-karat solid gold and is studded with 168 white diamonds (15 carats in total). So you will not only get a game, but a very good investment with gold prices going up. And should the €147,000 or about US$165,000 for the set be a bit too much for your games room, they also offer just one domino.

Each set is custom-made and comes in a specially designed marble case. www.lieb-manufaktur.com ICONIC CONCIERGE

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out & about BACCHANALIA GALA FAIRMONT HOTEL VANCOUVER

It is one of the most spectacular wine and food events in the city – an evening of incredible wine, inventive food pairings, and unparalleled opportunities to enhance your wine cellar.

The 2019 Bacchanalia Gala Dinner + Auction, presented by Blakes, kicked off with a sparkling wine reception at 6 p.m. and featured nine additional outstanding wines paired with an exquisite five-course menu prepared by the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver’s culinary team. All of this was topped off with live music and dancing. Live and silent auctions throughout the evening featured extremely rare wines, epicurean getaways and unique culinary experiences featuring chefs and sommeliers from the West Coast’s top restaurants. A wonderful evening and a ‘must’ for the connoisseur. Next year’s Wine Festival is Feb. 22nd - Mar 1st.

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YOUR BMW ADVENTURE STARTS HERE.

Begin a new chapter with Brian Jessel BMW.

The all-new BMW 8 Series.

N

HWY

Boundary

E 1st Ave.

1

www.brianjesselbmw.com @BrianJesselBMW

Lougheed Hwy.

NEW CAR 2311 Boundary Road, Vancouver, BC V5M 4W5 (604) 222-7788 PRE-OWNED 1515 Boundary Road Vancouver, BC V5K 5C4 (604) 222-8820

URWERK

Please meet: The limited edition $2.7 million AMC atomic master clock (and wristwatch). The tabletop clock mechanically winds, sets and regulates an Urwerk watch that is paired with the clock. Offering synchronization of minutes and seconds of the watch through the clock, the AMC concept was inspired by Abraham-Louis Breguet’s 1795 Sympathique pocket watch that could be docked to a high precision pendulum clock, which would automatically set the watch and wind it. The new Urwerk AMC is one of three complex editions that will be revealed between now and the year 2020.

HUBLOT

The Classic Fusion Ferrari GT features a brand new, innovative design which houses a new UNICO manufacture movement. The transparent dial features the famous Prancing Horse at 12 o’clock and the straps of the watch have been created in black rubber and Schedoni leather, like the seats of historic Maranello race cars.

Available in three different cases: Titanium (limited to 1,000), King Gold (500 pieces) and 3D Carbon (limited edition of 500 pieces).

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The Big Bang Sang Bleu II (“blue blood”), designed by Swiss tattoo artist Maxime Plescia-Buchi, introduces geometric designs for both the case and the hands, which are skeletonized allowing full view of the new watch’s HUB1240 Unico self-winding chronograph movement with a 72 hour power reserve.

Limited to 100 units in satin-finished titanium and 100 units in 18K gold, the Big Bang Sang Bleu II releases at Hublot boutiques worldwide beginning in July.

THE CONCEPT OF

TIME SIHH, Baselworld and Beyond... New Watches for 2019

It all dates back to 1917 with the first Schweizer Mustermesse Basel, of which a section was devoted to watches and jewellery. The name changed several times over the years, the last time in 2003, to “Baselworld - The Watch and Jewellery Show.” It is the biggest international trade fair for the watch industry, happening every year in March, with retailers and journalists from around the world coming to see and review the latest offerings by many of the world’s watch brands, both big and small. This year, however, Baselworld will be remembered as both the first of its kind — and the last.

For the first time in memory, the Swatch Group didn’t exhibit any of their 18 brands. In fact, with around 500 brands Baselworld saw roughly a third of the total number that attended five years ago. It was also the last time the fair was held in March. Next year, both SIHH (Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie) and Baselworld will create a doubleheader spanning a 10-day period in April and May. An interesting move, we will see how it will work out. For now, let us show you the best new watches we have seen at Baselworld, SIHH ... and beyond.

BREITLING The Premier B01 Chronograph 42 Norton Edition celebrates Breitling’s partnership with epic British motorcycle manufacturer, Norton.

Powered by the Breitling Manufacture Caliber 01, this COSC-certified chronometer is water resistant to 10 bar (100 meters).

The Norton Commando 961 Café Racer MKII Breitling motorcycle is a 961 cc bike limited to 77 samples, and features a vintage “B” logo at the saddle, Breitling designed clusters, and another vintage “B” logo engraved at the clutch box.

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CHOPARD

L.U.C FLYING T TWIN While Chopard is widely known for its glamorous ladies’ jewellery and a collection of fine timepieces for racing enthusiasts, its biggest feats of horological derring-do for exclusive models in its L.U.C collection, named for the initials of founder Louis-Ulysse Chopard.

Nestled inside its ultra-thin 40 mmdiameter case in 18-carat ethically certified “Fairmined” rose gold is Chopard’s first calibre equipped with a flying tourbillon, developed specifically for this timepiece.

Being automatic with a 65-hour power reserve – supplied by two stacked barrels according to Chopard’s patented Twin Technology, it makes it a double first for the watchmaker. This chronometercertified movement also features a stopseconds device which is extremely rare on a tourbillon and enables perfectly accurate time-setting. Testifying to the fine craftsmanship lavished on the L.U.C Flying T Twin, it also bears the “Poinçon de Genève” quality hallmark.

This extremely refined 50-piece limited series designed for contemporary gentlemen connoisseurs of Fine Watchmaking is certified by the “Poinçon de Genève” quality hallmark.

Priced at US$118,500.

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Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Grande Tradition Gyrotourbillon Westminster Perpétuel In the tradition of the iconic Hybris Mechanica, the Master Grande Tradition Gyrotourbillon Westminster Perpétuel with its striking deep-blue grand feu enamel guilloché or silver grained dial represents the quintessence of the art of watchmaking, right down to its edition number.

Produced in a limited series of 18 editions, this masterpiece of precision and rarity boasts three of the most emblematic complications; namely a constant force Gyrotourbillon, a minute repeater with a Westminster chime that reproduces four melodies on the wrist, and a perpetual calendar that, unlike most perpetual calendars, adjusts itself in both directions. As the name suggests, it automatically displays the correct date

without the need for manual adjustment between months of different lengths. It even takes into account the extra day at the end of February during leap years. A first for Jaeger-LeCoultre.

The Westminster minute repeater replicates the chimes of the Big Ben clock at the Palace of Westminster in London thanks to a set of four gongs and hammers. Its fourphrase melody is composed of four notes (Sol-Do-Ré-Mi as engraved in French on the movement or G-C-D-E) played in different sequences and different quantities at each quarter of the hour.

An alligator strap with alligator lining adds the finishing touch. The price for both editions will be EUR 800,000.

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Bovet Tourbillon Amadeo Fleurier Virtuoso IX Someone described it as “a cornucopia of functions and artistic prowess.” Bovet, very much a niche connoisseur brand, just unveiled a reversible timepiece. The Tourbillon Amadeo Fleurier Virtuoso IX, which houses the new calibre 17BM04-DFR in a 46.30-millimetre convertible case, packs a host of functions and horological highlights — from a flying tourbillon, big date, dual time-zone display, and 10-day power reserve — into a timepiece with two dials and a convertible case that can shift from wristwatch to pocketwatch to table clock.

The case options are 18 rose gold, 18k white gold, and platinum, with full skin alligator straps and accompanying precious-metal pocketwatch chains.

Prices ...upon request.

Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Tourbillon Openworked One of the most discussed watches of SIHH 2019 was the Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59.

The reason? There has been no product launch of this magnitude over the past 20 years for the brand that is known for the Royal Oak, Royal Oak Offshore, Royal Oak Concept and Millenary. This year AP introduced a whopping 6 news models and 3 brand new calibres – including the much awaited inhouse integrated chronograph! Our favorite - the heavy skeletonized 11.59 (11:59 being the last minute before a new day) Tourbillon Openworked – a visual treat for the movement lovers out there. It showcases the new in-house manual wound calibre 2948 in a generous 41 mm 18K rose gold case with a thickness of 10.7 mm.

The Audemars Piguet CODE 11.59 Tourbillon Openworked is delivered on a large square scale black alligator strap with an 18K rose gold folding clasp. Price: CHF 175,000.

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Hautlence

Armin Strom

HL Sphere

Dual Time Resonance Sapphire

HAUTLENCE presented its eighth manufacture calibre at Baselworld, launching another exceptional timepiece: the HL SPHERE.

“Form follows function” could have been written for the Armin Strom Dual Time Resonance, the result of three years of intensive research and development: two movements side by side with dual eye-catching counter-oscillating balances naturally led to the ovalshaped case, while the increased space afforded by the movements in this configuration allowed for two barrels per movement and a longer power reserve.

Gazing through the display back at all four barrels winding simultaneously is as mesmerising as the ballet of the dual regulators on the dial.

Named for its cobalt blue sphere, which indicates the hour, you will find the other half of the time, the minutes, in a retrograde and partially open display right next to it. It offers a glimpse into the hand-wound HTL 501-1 movement, including the bits that trigger the jumping-hour mechanism.

An interesting fact, and in contrast to what most people may think, the movement is designed and produced in-house!

The white gold case is 39mm x 46mm, and 15.75mmthick at the apex of the sapphire dome.

Priced at CHF 99,000, the Hautlence HL Sphere is limited to 28 pieces.

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The independent movements enable the Dual Time Resonance to indicate GMT, or a second time zone, as well as a function used as a timer or countdown. Power reserve indicators on each of the hand-guilloche dials and a 24-hour indication at 6 o’clock complete the indications. Only eight pieces are being made, at a whopping price of CHF 280,000.

Zenith

Omega

El Primero A386 Revival

Seamaster Diver 300M

2019 marks the 50th birthday of the Zenith El Primero.

Zenith celebrates the anniversary with a trio of limited edition chronographs that, in 1969 introduced the A386 movement to the world. It has gone on to become one of the most storied movements of the 20th century and has been been a mainstay in Zenith’s arsenal for almost its entire lifespan.

OMEGA’s recent makeover of the iconic Seamaster Diver 300M collection has integrated many of the brand’s modern materials and technologies. In 2019, the evolution continues with a new model built from black ceramic and titanium with an integrated black rubber strap with a buckle in black ceramic.

Available in 18K white gold, yellow or rose gold, the Zenith El Primero A386 Revival 50th Anniversary is limited to 50 pieces each. The price: CHF19,900.

Our favourite, however, is an ultra-faithful steel reedition. Unfortunately, this model cannot be bought on its own - it is part of the (sold out) Zenith’s 50 Years of El Primero Anniversary Set, which also includes a futuristic Defy and a modern Chronomaster. The set was priced at CHF 50,000.

Sized at 43.5 mm, the watch is distinguished by its polished/brushed case and grade 5 titanium caseback. The bezel is also formed with a grade 5 titanium base and includes a black ceramic ring with a diving scale in white enamel.

On the brushed black ceramic dial, the laser-engraved waves are raised from the surface in a “positive relief” to create a unique effect. Through the caseback’s sapphire crystal, you can admire the OMEGA Master Chronometer Calibre 8806. US$8,100.

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Carl F. Bucherer

Manero Flyback What a difference a dial colour and a strap can make! Meet the new rally-oriented retro-style version of the Carl F. Bucherer Manero Flyback. It boasts an 18 k rose gold case that houses a column-wheel mechanism, ensuring both precision and ease of use.

The vintage character of the timepiece, taking design cues from Carl F. Bucherer models from the 1960s and 1970s, gets an elegant contemporary twist thanks to black and red accents and a kudu-leather strap.

The black sunburst-finished dial pops against the two silver-colored totalizator subdials – a small seconds display and a 30-minute counter – while bold red accents such as the “Flyback” lettering and the outline of the chapter ring add another contrast.

The Manero Flyback is powered by the CFB 1970 caliber automatic movement with 42 hours of power reserve. US$16,900.

Rolex

H. Moser & Cie

GMT-Master II The GMT-Master II is far from being a new design. It is an existing model with some subtle upgrades, making it an immediate collector’s piece: The ‘Batman’ (blue/black bezel) has been given the same upgrades as the ‘Pepsi’ (red/blue) version last year, with the movement being upgraded to the Calibre 3285, while the bezel is now made with Cerachrome and the vintagefeel Jubilee bracelet.

Good luck trying to get one - the waiting list is long. C$10,600.

Swiss Alp Watch Concept Black This must be one of the most outstanding Swiss Alp Watch concept timepieces to date. The time is? Well, the tourbillon watch does not show the time. It chimes it! The manual wind in-house HMC-901 caliber was developed with the help of minute repeater specialist MHC Manufactures Hautes Complications SA. It has 87 hours of power reserve and a quarter, hour and minute chime.

You want it? Sorry, H. Moser’s repeaters are all unique pieces and this one sold already during the fair (330.000 CHF).

T c f

T t d b s

O m

O fl

T

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Vacheron Constantin

Traditionelle Twin Beat Perpetual Calendar

THE ONGOING PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN Bovet and the famous Italian car design studio Pininfarina started in 2008 celebrating the 80th anniversary of the famous Turin-based design agency. It was the birth of the Ottanta Tourbillon, one of the most fascinating timepieces on the market. Since then and with six special editions, the Ottanta evolved into a collection in its own right.

The newest member is the OttantaSei (Italian for 86), celebrating the 86th anniversary of Pininfarina. To create maximum light and transparency,two long side crystals enclose the case and embrace the profile of the middle perfectly. The accurate machining and delicate metallization of the sapphire crystals provide superb views of the movement, while the touch of elegance synonymous with The Twin Beat is a “user-controlled, both Houses is present through the laser-engraved words ‘Pininfarina’ and ‘limited edition’ on the inner concave surfaces of these dual-frequency watch.” The watch’s sapphire crystal walls. movement incorporates two balances, each of which operates at a different

Of course, the distinctive screws designed by Pininfarina used on all the watches in the collection are also a prominentfrequency: feature that an “Active” mode of 5Hz makes this watch instantly recognizable..

(36,000 vph) with 4 days of power

reserve, and a Standby mode of 1.2 Hz

(8,640 vph) with a power reserve of Only 10 limited-edition watches will be made in platinum, subtracted from the total of 86 patented manual-winding double-sided at least 65 days. Using a pusher at 8 flying tourbillon movements the brand has committed to produce for the entire collection.

The price is on request but expect just north of EUR 200,000 (appr. US$229,000). www.bovet.com

o’clock, the user can switch between the Active mode to the Standby mode.

US$199,000.

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out & about CABRIOLET CHARITY GALA BRIAN JESSEL BMW VANCOUVER

It was the night of the 14th Annual Brian Jessel BMW Cabriolet Gala. On April 6th, one of Vancouver’s best-known and influential charity galas, the “Cabriolet Charity Gala”, saw the Brian Jessel BMW dealership transformed into an enchanting world of a glamorous nightclub in Casablanca.

From the bazaar with silent auction items to Rick’s Café Américain, it was more than just a wonderful night of fine dining thanks to The Four Seasons Hotel, Hy’s Steakhouse, Joe Fortes, Bosa Foods and Temper Chocolate and Pastry. It was also more than the great line up of entertainers and the live band that made us dance almost until midnight – the Cabriolet Gala is first and foremost an evening of hope and giving, raising funds for Pancreatic Cancer research, awareness and support.

This year, an estimated 5,500 Canadians will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, of which 4,800 will not survive. Pancreatic cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer deaths, with a five-year survival rate remaining in the single digits. Unfortunately, pancreatic cancer receives less than 2% of government cancer funding.

You, too, can make a difference: Visit pancreaticcancercanada.ca to learn more about the foundation, and to make a much-needed donations. Thank you! And Thank You to the team at Brian Jessel BMW for a wonderful night, for such a special cause.

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PININFARINA BATTISTA 42

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S

orry, Bugatti and Koenigsegg .. as much as we love the brand new cars that we saw in Geneva, it is this one that took our breath away. The brand-new Pininfarina Battista, the most powerful road-legal car ever to come out of Italy. Although, we have to admit that it is not what we were hoping for. Visually, that is ...

They have designed more gorgeous cars than we could possibly list here. Actually, the only road-going production Ferraris not designed by Pininfarina are the 1973 Dino 308 GT4 and 2013’s LaFerrari. That relationship may have ended in 2017, but Pininfarina is still the Yves Saint Laurent of the auto industry.

Founded in 1930 by Battista “Pinin” Farina, the car design firm and coachbuilder would soon list among its clients the most prestigious names in car manufacturing, including Ferrari, Alfa Romeo, Lancia, Maserati, and even GM. At its height the Pininfarina Group employed almost 3,000 people, although in 2012, a few years after Battista’s grandson, Andrea, had passed away, the number shrunk to 821. Paolo Pininfarina, Andre’s younger brother, was the CEO and sold the company to the Mahindra Group in 2015.

Automobili Pininfarina is a new company, located in Munich, Germany with a design facility and office locations in Turin, Italy. Its first car, the Battista, will be produced in 2020 in a limited edition of 150 cars at a cost of approximately £2m each. It is powered by a Rimac T-shaped 120 kWh battery pack and has four nonsynchronous motors placed on each wheel. The Battista is built

on a carbon fibre monocoque chassis and has a full carbon body and classic teardrop-shaped cabin encased in sweeping glass. Its doors open upward like butterfly wings and a bright LED light strip runs across the front of the car between its headlights.

According to Automobili Pininfarina the Battista has a power output of 1,400 kW (1,903 PS; 1,877 hp), a top speed in excess of 349 km/h (217 mph), and can accelerate from 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) in less than 2 seconds, and 0–300 km/h (0–186 mph) in less than 12 seconds.

So why did we say it is not really what we were hoping for?

“We wanted to keep the form and proportion of a traditional supercar,” chief designer Luca Borgogno says. “It takes back some of the beauty of the 1960s, the sensuality. Look at the cars in our museum: what really strikes you is the purity and beauty.”

And that’s exactly what we struggle with. We don’t really see it.

Don’t get us wrong - this is a great looking car, with some amazing technology, developed by the best of the best in the industry. We were just expecting more from the very first car to carry the name of the most famous car designer in the world. Visually. The Battista, at first glance, looks vaguely like a reworked Ferrari 488 with a bit of a McLaren, and even a BMW i8.

And there you go, Automobiles Ettore Bugatti, Christian von Koenigsegg, and Horacio Pagani. Although the Battista gets the spotlight in this edition, we applaud you for a more unique and iconic design language. And having said that, we highly doubt we will get an invite to test-drive the Battista ...

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“

There’s something inside us that drives us to achieve more. To evolve beyond our senses. To embrace the unattainable before anyone else. That something has no name. It has a number. 8.

8

THE REDEFINITION OF THE SPORTS CAR. 44

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8

SERIES

It’s been too long. 20 years, to be exact. But the BMW 8 Series is finally back!

The new BMW 8 Series Coupe adds a brand new chapter to the Bavarian premium carmaker’s long history of sports cars – and gets its current model offensive in the luxury segment off to a particularly dynamic start. The digit 8 in the model name, is indicative of its high-ranking status within BMW’s product range. As in the past with the BMW Z8 and also with the current BMW i8, it is reserved for exceptionally sporty cars that fire the emotions.

The primary development objective for the BMW 8 Series Coupe was thrilling driving dynamics. The body, powertrain and suspension were consistently honed to achieve the supreme agility, precision and poise expected of a top-class sports car.

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A new V8 power unit, combined with the BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system and BMW Efficient Lightweight design measures, the 8 Series Coupe is a dream car boasting outstanding performance, emotion-stirring design, state-of-the-art luxury and exceptionally advanced equipment features when it comes to display and control technology, driver assistance and connectivity.

The Exterior Design The exterior design of the new BMW 8 Series Coupe lives up to all the expectations engendered by the BMW Concept 8 Series first unveiled at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este in 2017.

Its low-slung design, an elongated silhouette with a slim window graphic, a very muscular shoulderline and a roofline flowing elegantly into the powerfully shaped rear with a distinctive “double-bubble” contouring, a long wheelbase and wide track widths are the defining elements of this car, giving it an extremely powerful stance on the road.

A front with slim headlights (BMW Laserlight is optional), and the low-down BMW kidney grille combined with the elaborate, jutting design of the front apron with its large air intakes, gives the 8 a very dominant and powerful ‘rear-view mirror’ appearance. No doubt - it is born for the Autobahn!

At the rear, the interplay of horizontal and diagonal lines emphasises the car’s width and low centre of gravity.

Aerodynamics and weight An almost fully sealed underbody, active air flap control and Air Curtains including Air Breathers help to reduce the aerodynamic drag of the 8 Series Coupe’s streamlined body. Narrow exterior mirror bases also help smooth the airflow. On the BMW M850i xDrive Coupe, an additional front spoiler further minimises lift at the front axle at high speeds.

Further weight savings can be achieved with the optional Carbon package comprising air intake bars, exterior mirror caps, a rear spoiler and a rear diffuser insert. You can even order the optional carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) roof, which is featuring for the first time on a BMW production model and lowers the centre of gravity even further, thus enhancing the sports car’s agility.

The Interior Design The luxurious character of the new BMW 8 Series Coupe is continued inside. Rather than a sports car, the interior is more that of a luxurious GT, combining great materials and design with a sporty flair.

The materials used are of the best quality and the wide array of configurations you can pick from, especially through BMW Individual, allows you to create your dream car. Obviously, the technology is one of the best in its calss. From the fully digital instru-

ment cluster with a 12.3-inch display, an improved Head-Up Display to the iDrive Controller, the 10.25inch touch display, and voice control or BMW gesture control – the 8 Series does not disappoint.

The Engine The power of a revamped 4.4-litre 390 kW/530 hp engine with M Performance TwinPower Turbo technology is sent to BMW’s xDrive all-wheel drive via an improved eight-speed GPS-aided and gear-changes predicting transmission. The BMW M850i xDrive Coupe accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.7 seconds. The combined fuel consumption of 10.5 – 10.0 litres per 100 kilometres demonstrates that the increase in the eight-cylinder engine’s power has gone hand in hand with improvements to its efficiency too.

The standard equipment for the new BMW 8 Series Coupe includes the Adaptive M suspension with electronically controlled dampers, as well as Integral Active Steering, which reduces the turning circle when manoeuvring, increases agility and makes changing lanes or taking corners at high speeds even more effortless.

It’s all about individuality There is a lot you can do to give your new 8 a unique and more powerful appearance. The M-package adds extra-large air intakes in the front apron, a prominently contoured rear apron and specially designed side skirts, while the M Sport package will give you a host of other design features to bring the dynamic character to the fore. And if the standard BMW colours are not good enough - BMW Individual will get you the paint finish that you are looking for!

The BMW 8 Series is available as a stylish convertible as well. The classical soft-top roof with fully electric, extremely quiet operation, minimised weight and outstanding acoustic comfort opens and closes in just 15 seconds at the touch of a button and when travelling at up to 50 km/h (31 mph). Softtop in Black as standard or Anthracite Silver effect as an option.

BRIAN JESSEL BMW 2311 Boundary Road Vancouver 604 222-7788 www.brianjesselbmw.com

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out & about ASTON MARTIN RED BULL RACING “ZAGATO” VIP PRESENTATION ASTON MARTIN VANCOUVER

It was a very special evening for car enthusiasts and fans of the Aston Martin brand. On March 14th, Aston Martin of Vancouver invited us to the official Aston Martin Red Bull Racing 2019 F1 Season launch party, an evening of handcrafted cocktails and race inspired canapés.

What the invitation didn’t say was that two very special cars would be on display: The fastest production Aston Martin to date - the DBS Superleggera, and the extremely rare Aston Martin Zagato Shooting Brake, which made a stop at the dealership for just one night. Aston Martin and Zagato’s partnership goes back to the DB4 GT Zagato, first shown in 1960 at the London Motor Show. Nearly sixty years later, Zagato and Aston Martin present a whole family: Only 99 Coupes, 99 Volantes, 99 Shooting Brakes, and 28 Speedsters have been built.

Priced at over US$1,300,000 and already sold.

A big Thank You to Aston Martin for giving us the opportunity the next day to spend some extra time with it before it left.

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ON THE COVER

1988 ASTON MARTIN V8 VANTAGE VOLANTE Let’s face it - the only reason the the Brits came up with the “Gentlemen’s sports cars” is because they knew they sucked at making supercars. BUT - at least they made them look pretty stunning. The best example - the Aston Martin V8 Vantage.

Actually, the V8 Vantage was the car Aston Martin attempted to change it all with. In 1977, when they hailed the top version of their V8 the “Vantage,” they really introduced it as “Britain’s First Supercar” for its 170 mph (270 km/h) top speed. Well ... that didn’t really work out, did it? The overall shape was introduced in 1967 with the DBS, powered by a straight-six engine. It got some fame with the popular “The Persuaders!” action/adventure/comedy series starring Tony Curtis and Roger Moore. Moore’s character, Brett Sinclair drives a UK-registered Bahama Yellow right-hand-drive 6-cylinder Aston Martin DBS (and gets his butt kicked by Curtis’ Danny Wilde, who drives a red left-hand-drive Dino 246 GT). The DBS was eventually being phased out in favour of the Aston Martin V8.

The car you see in these pictures is very much the same car that James Bond drove. Unfortunately, it was one of the least popular Bond actors, Brit Timothy Dalton, who was behind the steering wheel of the Vantage in 1987s “The Living Daylights.” Which is most likely why the V8 is rarely referred to as a James Bond car. Still, it is a true classic, and with the rare Euro-engine and bumpers, and only 12k miles on it, this local Vancouver car is a collector’s dream! As for the Brits building supercars ... they have come a long way!

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get yourself an

EGO!

Massive Performance, No Emissions.

The world’s first street-legal electric Italian sport motorcycle

“It is pure sex-on-wheels, but even if it was ugly as a mud it would still sell to anyone who wants an adrenaline rush!”

Please welcome - The Energica EGO. Designed and built by the same people who have designed and engineered racing performance from Formula One Racing to Le Mans 24h for over 40 years.

“Massive Performance, no emissions.” The green heart of the electric motorcycle is a synchronous oil-cooled motor with permanent magnets. It has 107kW (145 hp c.ca) of instantaneous power reaching from 4900 rpm to 10500 rpm and a torque of 200 Nm ranging from 0 rpm to 4700 rpm.

With this, the Energica Ego accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3 seconds to reach a top speed of 240 km/h.

The Ego does not have a gearbox or a clutch. Everything is regulated by the ride-by-wire system, allowing you to control the acceleration and deceleration based on the regenerative torque or engine braking – making the electric superbike faster than even a 600 supersport.

The brakes are serious business as well with cast aluminum Brembo calipers (front 3.5” x 17” / rear 5.5” x 17”) and the

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latest generation ABS system by BOSCH. The bona fide brain of the Energica Ego is the sophisticated Vehicle Control Unit (VCU). Unlike other vehicles where the control units work separately on all controllers, the Ego’s battery, inverter, charger and ABS are constantly monitored and managed by the in-house developed VCU, which is carefully monitoring and adjusting the motor’s power according to the throttle thrust 100 times per second while riding.

The bike has a digital dashboard with an active matrix of 4.3 inches and color display and supports Bluetooth (short range) and UMTS long range technology, allowing you to connect the EGO to your smartphone, tablet or simply to your home computer via the Internet. It also offers a “PARK ASSISTANT” to facilitate parking and maneuvers on slopes or in traffic. The VCU limits both the speed and the torque of the vehicle with a maximum speed of 2.8 km/h and maximum torque of 50Nm (both in drive and reverse mode).

The price? Around €25,000 (appr. US$28,000). www.energicamotor.com

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Performance Driving Starts Here

You’ve got the car, now what’s your excuse?

It’s time to get on Canada’s most exclusive luxury circuit.

www.Area27.ca/Academy-27

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@Area27Okanagan 0 R W R U V S R U W V

3 D U N

Your Exclusive Lakefront Retreat Awaits.

Unreserved Auction. Coming this July to the Okanagan.

In partnership with

lambertpremierauctions.com/lakefront

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THE LAND OF

TEQUILA & MEZCAL words: Olaf Robrecht

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“

Tequila probably won’t fix your problems, but it’s worth a shot.

MEXICO - a Canadian’s favourite destination to beat the winter. Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, Cancun. Resorts on endless white beaches, all-inclusive travel packages, easy to reach and a Corona for breakfast. Yes, that’s what Mexico is all about, right?

Wrong! There is more, so much more to explore, and one of the most exciting travel experiences, especially for the connoisseur of some fine spirits, is to visit the areas that are famous for Mexico’s finest spirits: Tequila and Mezcal.

After having spent some time on epic travel journeys throughout Europe and Asia, we decided to escape Vancouver’s cold late-February tapestry of rain and head south east.

AeroMexico offers daily flights to Mexico City, and from there, Guadalajara is less than an hour away. Guadalajara, the capital of Jalisco and birthplace of tequila and mariachi music, is in itself worth a visit. The city, which boasts a population in excess of 5 million people, has a historic centre dotted with colonial plazas and landmarks, such as the neoclassical Teatro Degollado and a cathedral with twin gold spires. The Palacio del Gobierno houses famous murals by painter José Clemente Orozco. Guadalajara is also close to the city of Tequila. Wait ... there is a city called Tequila? Yes, there is, and the 45 minute drive from Guadalajara is a must.

TEQUILA 60 km from Guadalajara,Tequila is best known as the birthplace of the drink that bears its name and is made from the blue agave plant, native to the area. The heart of the plant, the “piña,” is rich in sugar and had been used by the indigenous peoples here for generations, to make a fermented drink. But it was the Spanish who took this fermented beverage and distilled it, producing the drink we now identify as “tequila” . As you know we like to do things ‘in style’ and so, instead of staying at a hotel in either Guadalajara or Tequila, we simply rented a haçienda. But not just any haçienda – a 1.5 acre hacienda with pool, hot tub, a separate man cave and more. Just check out our accommodation recommendations for more details. We also decided against a rental car, because, let’s face it … we are here for a reason, and that reason is to explore tequila - the spirit, not the city, although, the moment you do one you end up doing the other concurrently. Instead we opted for a taxi

and ra!

re, the attraco East rea.

-- unknown

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and whilst there are UBERs in Guadalajara you will have difficulties finding many in Tequila.

The town of Tequila has a population of close to 30,000 and attracts thousands of visitors each year to see the fields of blue agave, countless distilleries, the Museo Nacional de Tequila (National Museum of Tequila), and the Barraca de Tequila. The name “Tequila” has actually been protected by the Mexican government since 1974, in relation to alcohol and its use is limited to products distilled from blue agave grown in certain regions of Mexico. The established distilleries here produce between 500 and 1000 litres a day but this is not enough to meet the international demand for a product which has skyrocketed since the 1980s.

Patron, Don Julio, Herradura or Jose Cuervo are some of the biggest and best-known tequilas. And yes, when assessed by the number of cases or bottles produced each year, they are by far some of the best-selling tequila brands in the world. But this is not what we wanted to see. Instead, we were on a mission to visit the small familyowned boutique distilleries. The distilleries that produce tequila the ‘old-school way.’

FORTALEZA, ARETTE AND SAUZA It is a long story why we picked these distilleries, but let’s just say we were fortunate enough to have met some true aficionados recently, who introduced us to the right people.

We started our tour with a visit to Tequila Fortaleza, which is an absolute gem. Despite only launching in 2005, Tequila Fortaleza has over 140 years of history behind the brand.

A family-owned distillery, the great-great-grandfather, Don Cenobio Sauza founded La Perseverancia in 1873 and became the first person to export “mezcal de tequila” to the United States, shortening the name to “Tequila”, and implementing the use of steam to cook the agave (instead of an earthen pit). Today, under the watchful eye of Don Guillermo, with whom we had the pleasure of spending an evening, the distillery is making tequila in the same way it was made over 100 years ago – with a small brick oven to steam cook the agave, a tahona to squeeze the juices out of the agave, wood tanks for fermentation, and the 2 original copper pots for distillation.

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We had an incredible time at Fortaleza and felt like part of the family. We visited the Agave fields, actually learning how to cut the plant, and toured the whole production facility. We then enjoyed a private sampling in their famous tasting cave, followed by lunch under an azure blue sky. At this point we assumed we would be saying “good-bye” to brand ambassador, Kobe and their head of marketing, Jaime, but as we hopped on board their customised golf cart and headed downtown, in became apparent that the expectation of farewells was somewhat premature. A short ride later, we arrived at La Capilla. This legendary institution, “The Chapel” has been featured on the list of the World’s 50 Best Bars but as we pulled up outside, our first question was “Why La Capilla?”. But it doesn’t take much time or very many drinks to find out how the bar received its name…as you walk in on your feet but if you’re not paying attention to how much you’re drinking of their signature drink ‘La Batanga’, you soon fall to your knees. The Chapel, you know!

It was in the late afternoon that we arrived back at the haçienda. Time for a swim, followed by a delicious barbecue, a few beers and, yes, tequila.

It’s kinda like water down there ….

The next day we went back to Tequila and again met up with Jaime at Forteleza. From here, we jumped back aboard the golf cart and drove the short distance to Tequila Arette, just a short walk down the street from Fortaleza. Named after a famous horse that won the equestrian jumping gold medal in the 1948 London Olympics, Arette is operated by the Orendain brothers, members of one of the most recognized families in the tequila industry. Arette actually uses the water from the wellsprings of the Tequila volcano, and in comparison to Fortaleza, have invested in a bigger oven, pots and stills, resulting in greater production but still putting an emphasis on quality over quantity, whilst faithfully following in their grandfather’s footsteps to continue building the family legacy. Again, what a great time we had, meeting the whole family over ‘a few’ glasses of tequila and hearing stories about the history and the future intentions of the brand.

Now that we had seen a small boutique distillery, as well as a slightly bigger production facility, Jaime suggested we should have a look at one of the bigger players. A quick call later and Jaime had a private tour at Sauza Tequila organized.

With its origins in La Perseverancia distillery, Don Guillermo’s grandfather sold Sauza Tequila, to leading Spanish brandy producer, Pedro Domecq in 1988. Later purchased by Allied Lyons, the brand had its Casa Sauza recognized as the world’s most consumed tequila in 2003, before being sold again in 2005 to become a component of the Beam Inc. business. Soon after, it placed

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15th among the world’s 100 best-selling spirits in 2005.

Today, it is owned by Japanese company, Suntory, trades on the Tokyo Stock Exchange and has expanded its facility, which covers several blocks in Tequila. Set-up to welcome buses of tourists, they offer a well-organized tour, which ends in a beautiful courtyard bistro surrounded by a small park. But ... it is a factory, churning out tequila in quantities to supply a worldmarket. Not surprisingly, you find neither the continuation of the colourful history, nor the passion of the owners and workers, nor, most significantly of all, the ‘la familia’ experience that we had when visiting Fortaleza and Arette. And maybe it is just us – but the taste of this mass-produced tequila really does not compare to the nectar that is nurtured at the boutique distilleries.

That afternoon, we left Tequila a bit early in order to accept an invitation to a restaurant and a legendary nightclub in Guadalajara later that evening.

FROM VINCENT TO VANGO Vincent by Vango is a family-owned, concept restaurant with a very unique décor. We had been extended an invitation by the aunt of the current proprietor, Elena Rubio, who is also the creative mind behind the cool décor. Elena, who also spends time in Vancouver, not only joined us for dinner – she had also made VIP arrangements for the night’s biggest party-event: The 30th anniversary of Vango. Guadalajara’s No.1 night club, it was the first entertainment business owned by her family, and was founded by her brother. Whilst it was named with no thought to the painter, the connection became established over the years given the phonetics of the name and so when the family decided to expand their operation to include restaurants, the name “Vincent” was the obvious choice. And for those of you with some knowledge in art history – the family recently opened another restaurant – ‘Theo’.

What a night … we finally made it home around 4 in the morning, after having to wake-up our UBER driver twice on the drive out of the city, as he was falling asleep at the wheel.

Carlos Monsalve, the founder of Grand Mayan Tequila, picked us up the next morning and spent the whole day driving us around. We toured another distillery, marvelled over stunning agave fields, and visited beautiful villages and city neighbourhoods, including Tlaquepaque, with its wonderful buildings, art galleries, restaurants and bars. Thank you, Carlos, we had an amazing last day!

Then, after 4 fantastic days, we left Guadalajara the next morning and after a quick stop in Mexico City, we arrived at the airport in Oaxaca in the early afternoon.

OAXACA - FROM ARCHEOLOGY TO MEZCAL The city and municipality of Oaxaca de Juárez or simply ‘Oaxaca’ is the capital and largest city of the Mexican state of the same name. At an elevation of 1,555m, the city relies heavily on a booming tourist industry, which is based on its colonial-era architecture, the food and history of the native Zapotec and Mixtec cultures and various archeological sites, including the famous Monte Albán, which was named a World Heritage Site in 1987. You will also find interesting markets and numerous cool art galleries.

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As there is no UBER in Oaxaca, we opted for taxis. We also spent one day in the capable hands of a local guide, which we can highly recommend, as we discovered much more than we would have done if left to our own devices. We had a great time with Juan Montes-Lara (www.oaxacatourguide.com), who did an amazing job, giving us a great perspective and insight into Oaxaca’s history and culture. A true ambassador for the area!

The city of Oaxaca is considered “Mexico’s culinary capital”and for good reason. If you like rich, and spicy flavours, you will be in paradise and spoilt for choice between some of the most incredible restaurants. But the main reason we came to this area was for ... Mezcal!

MEZCAL Mezcal is actually the precursor to tequila, with the recent discovery that mezcal production dates back to pre-hispanic times, being made in Xochitécatl-Cacaxtla in the state of Tlaxcala 2500 years ago, whereas Tequila was first produced in the 16th century in the state of Jalisco. Also - all tequilas are a type of mezcals, but mezcals are not necessarily tequilas, but more about that in our separate article.

When you travel with friends, it makes sense to look into AirBnB - that’s how we found the haçienda in Tequila, and that’s how we found Casa Lila too. Situated in a secure, gated community on a hill overlooking the city and surrounding mountains, the casa is a huge villa with 5 bedrooms and 5.5 bathrooms. Once agin, check our accommodation recommendation for more information!

We used the the afternoon and evening to explore the beautiful city and get some ideas about the best restaurants to visit over

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the following days.

MEZCALES MILAGRITO The next morning we took a cab to Santiago Matatlan, a town of around 8,700 people, but an astounding 140 mezcal distilleries.

It is the most famous mezcal producing town in the state of Oaxaca. Our first palenque (the equivalent of a distillery in mezcal production) to visit was Milagrito, which is actually not open for tours or tastings. Well, what can we say - we were fortunate enough to get a private tour and once again we were blown away by the hospitality, which is something we can’t draw enough attention to - wherever we went people welcomed us with open arms and made us feel like family. Karla, a coowner of Mezcales Milagrito, joined us for breakfast before we headed over to their palenque, where we would meet the rest of the small but extremely passionate team.

Designed with ecology and sustainability in mind, it was one of the most organized and cleanest facilities we have ever seen on our travels - not just in Mexico - and their artisanal mezcal was truly magnificent.

A big “thank you” for such an amazing experience!

MEZCAL GRACIAS A DIOS Just walking distance from Milagrito, you will find Mezcal Gracias a Dios. If you’re looking for a hip and stylish mezcal palenque - this is it! Run by mezcal maestro, Óscar Hernández Santiago, whose family has been making mezcal for 4 generations, we again found another brand who valued sustainable production.

Not only do they reclaim rainwater for

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production and produce much of their power using solar panels, they recycled the fibrous agave waste to use in the adobe bricks that were used to construct the buildings. We loved their mezcal (and, funny enough, their agave gin, too!), which we sampled in the beautiful tasting room bar.

After visiting two palenques, and sampling four or five fabulous mezcals in cognac glasses, it was time to go home, freshen up and fill our stomach with some delicious food – and more mezcal.

MONTE ALBAN, MORE MEZCAL …

AND A PETRIFIED WATERFALL Juan Montes-Lara picked us up the next morning in his modern and air conditioned bus, and as our guide for the day, explained the tour he had created. Our first stop was Monte Albán, one of the most important archaeological sites in Mexico. The ruins are located on top of the mountain about 20 mins away from the city and whilst it never got too hot, thanks to a gentle breeze, just make sure you put some sunscreen on … and wear a hat. Right, Mr Finlay?

From there, Juan took us to Mitla, another remarkable archaeological site and a former religious centre, which is close to El Árbol del Tule, The Tree of Tule, which boasts the stoutest trunk of any tree in the world.

After another delicious lunch – Juan knows the best local places it was time for a ... mezcal, and so we headed to a palenque Juan highly recommended.

EL SABINO/ MEZCAL MACURICHOS This family business has 50 years of experience making mezcal, exclusively using organic wild and locally grown agaves. Mezcal maestro, Gonzalo Martinez Sernas, poured us several of his limited production mezcal varieties, including our first experience of tasting a 65% Mezcal - we survived!

It was our last day and a visit to the petrified waterfalls of Hierve el Agua had been on all of our lists. Located 70kms east of Oaxaca City, the unique rock formations are created by fresh water springs, whose water is over-saturated with calcium-carbonate and other minerals. As the water tumbles over the cliffs, the excess minerals are deposited – creating the look of a petrified waterfal, which makes for a stunning view. Bring your swimsuit as you can swim in their three natural pools.

We arrived home in the early evening with enough time for a refreshing dip in the pool, before heading out to our last and very delicious dinner in the city.

What a trip we had. We came home with a new appreciation for tequila and mezcal (the real stuff, not the shots you down at the bar) but what we will truly never forget was the outstanding hospitality of all the people we met.

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the three

AMIGOS The MUST-DO’s in ...

GUADALAJARA & AREA TEQUILA

LA TABERNA DEL COFRADE

It’s the reason you are here! If you stay in Guadalajara hop on the Tequila Train, or call an UBER or taxi, and make sure you have a good, good breakfast! Visit the Museo Nacional del Tequila, the Tequila Museum in the central plaza, first! And forget the big factories with all the tourist busses. The small boutique distilleries are the way to go!

This restaurant in Tequila is 4.5 meters underground, a callback to the prohibition era when producers were forced underground.

CLEOFAS MOTA MARKET Formed by a series of restaurants around a fountain without water, the market is a collection of regional cuisine where the locals eat. In the central plaza in Tequila.

VINCENT & VANGO - GUADALAJARA For the one night out! You will find both Vincent and Vango in the hip Puerta de Hierro area with all its fashion stores, bars and clubs. Highly recommended. www.vincent.com.mx

TLAQUEPAQUE Charming with its colourful buildings, art galleries, restaurants and tequila stores.

VOLCANO

LA CAPILLA - THE CHAPEL You have to do it - but we warned you!

Patrons walk in on their feet but crawl out on their knees...

Very few tourists visit the volcano. The elevation of the Valley is 1250 meters above sea level giving rise to a neotropical climate while the volcano rises 2,920 meters above sea level.

Which means: Even on the hottest day you may need a jacket at the very top.

OAXACA & AREA OAXACA - AT NIGHT

MEZCAL PALENQUES

Well, what we mean is “after sunset.” The streets and street markets will be filled with people, the buildings are illuminated and you will see the city in a whole new light. Literally!

Santiago Matatlán, a 45 min drive from Oaxaca City, is the World Capital of Mezcal. Here you’ll be able to see the whole process of how mezcal is made from harvesting the agave plant to distillation.

ART GALLERIES Oaxaca has many art galleries and they are worth a visit. Take a stroll through the streets and have a peek!

RESTAURANTS Oaxaca is known as Mexico’s culinary capital and has some of the best and most varied food in the country. It is the birthplace of mole, rich and complex sauces slow-cooked and made from dozens of ingredients such as chiles, nuts, seeds, onions, garlic, fruits, and even chocolate.

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THE HACIENDA

[Guadalajara/ El Arenal]

This haçienda, situated half-way between Guadalajara and Tequila, lies in a gated community of bigger estates. On 1.5 acres you will find a wonderful, fully restored building with two wings and 6 bedrooms, sleeping up to 16 people. Crossing the huge lawn, walking by cacti, lemon and avocado trees, you will come to a separate, newer building, alongside a big pool with a hot tub. We called it the man cave – a huge kitchen, big-screen TV, pingpong table, pool table, plus spa-like bathrooms and a huge floor-to-ceiling window wall that slides completely open to access a huge patio and pool.

Questions anyone?

Find this amazing property on AirBnB (“Hacienda in El Arenal Jalisco”), or get in touch with the owner, Yoshinori: yoshimoriya@hotmail.com

CASA LILA [Oaxaca] Just minutes outside the thriving city centre, Casa Lila is part of an elite gated community on a hill overlooking the city and the surrounding mountains.

Sleeping 10 guests, 5 beautiful bedrooms and 5.5 bathrooms await you. The master suite and the separate guest suite offer some extra luxury such as a spa-like bath with sauna and a games room with a pool table that overlooks the oversized pool.

And should you want to throw a party with around 100 people … don’t worry, this property was built for it!

You can find Casa Lila on AirBnB, or get in touch with the owner, Lourdes: salinaslourdes02@gmail.com

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TEQUILA & MEZCAL

When granted the type of access that the Iconic Concierge team were afforded on our visit to Jalisco and Oaxaca, it would be considered simply selfish not to share the knowledge we developed over the course of our trip. Read on to learn more about how mezcal and tequila are produced, what the differences between the two spirits are and how the categories of each are differentiated. Time to impress on your next date at the bar!

TEQUILA PRODUCTON Blue agave, thrive in the red volcanic soil that covers the Los Altos highlands, around the city of Tequila. Here the plants are larger and sweeter in aroma and taste, than those in the lowlands and subsequently contain a higher sugar content, which produces more alcohol when fermented. After growing for 7-8 years, the jimadors that harvest the plants, strip the agave of its spiky leaves, using a sharp circular blade, called a ‘coa’. The centre of the plant remains, which resembles a pineapple and is subsequently called a ‘piña’, which can weigh up to 110kg. Once stripped, the piña is split and the root of the quiote, where the stalk would grow from if the plant was allowed to grow, is removed.

The split piñas are then transported to large ovens, where they are slowly steam cooked, to soften the plant and break down the sugars. Once baked, the piñas are either mashed under a large millstone wheel, called a tahona, or in the case of the more modern production facilities, mechanically shredded. In the mass production facilities, such as Sauza, the shredded pulp has the sugars removed through a diffusion process.

The bagazo, or pulp, is removed and the juice is then fermented in big vats using proprietary yeast for around 4 days. At this point, the distilleries that are more concerned with profit

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margins over quality will add juice derived from corn sugar, whereas those with a focus on higher quality will keep the juice 100% from blue agave. A minimum of 60% of the juice has to be derived from blue agave in order to earn the name “tequila”. The higher the corn sugar content, the more likely you are to get a hangover in the morning.

Once the fermentation process is complete and the liquid in the vats stops bubbling, the dead mosto, which sits on the top, is removed and the fermented liquid is poured into old copper stills, or stainless steel stills in the new factories.

The first alcohol produced from distillation is the ‘heads’, which is high in alcohol content. As the distillation process continues, the ‘heart’ is produced, which has the smoothest flavour, least impurities and a safer alcohol content. The last batch of the distillation process is the ‘tails’, which has a high level of impurities. Each distillery will decide how much heads and tails remains along with the heart in the final product, with some of each being important to create a unique flavour profile. The distilleries that are less concerned about quality and more concerned about quantity, will include more heads and tails to save discarding higher volumes of product…but beware, this is the second reason the cheaper tequila will give you a hangover.

Tequila bottled at this stage, is termed ‘ordinario’ and has a rougher, more raw flavour profile.

Producers will then distill this tequila for a second time to produce tequila ‘blanco’, which has a harsher flavour profile than the aged varieties and, as such, is ideal for making cocktails. Occasionally, the tequila will be distilled for a third time but this isn’t as common as it removes much of the characteristic agave flavour.

If ‘reposado’(rested), ‘añejo’ (aged) or ‘extra añejo’ (extra aged) tequila is being produced, the producers will then decant the tequila blanco into french oak barrels, that have usually been used to age bourbon or red wine. A reposado will normally be aged for around 2 to 6 months, an añejo for one to 3 years and an extra añejo will remain casked for at least 3 years. It is this ageing process that gives these types of tequila the more amber or caramel colours and rounded flavour profile, that are perfect for sipping.

Personally, I prefer drinking a blanco with oily food, a repasado with savoury food, whilst the sweeter, subtler and more rounded profiles of the añejo and extra añejos are perfect for accompanying dessert.

MEZCAL PRODUCTION So, if tequila is a type of mezcal but not all mezcal is tequila, what is the difference? Well, first off, to be called ‘tequila’ the product has to be made with juice extracted from blue agave, as opposed to any other type of agave. Mezcal is produced from many different types of agave, which can give a more earthy and herbaceous flavour, when compared to the blue agave grown in the highlands. Much of the agave harvested for mezcal production around Matatlan, Oaxaca is grown wild as opposed to farmed, although this is starting to change as the demand for mezcal increases and the maestros look for more convenient methods of harvest. Secondly, similar to ‘Champagne’ being a geographically restricted title for sparkling wine, distilled mezcal spirits can only be called ‘tequila’ if it’s produced in the state of Jalisco or limited municipalities in the states of Guanajuato, Michoacán, Nayarit and Tamaulipas.

Beyond the regulatory stipulations, there are also a couple of differences that we noticed in the production methods between tequila and mezcal too. Whereas the piñas are steam-baked in ovens to breakdown the sugars and soften the agave at the start of the tequila production process, mezcal maestros cook the piñas in deep pits of hot rocks, that are covered with wood and dried bagazo. This contributes to the smokey flavours of mezcal, in comparison to tequila. Then, once the piñas are cooked and mashed, mezcal producers load both juice and pulp into the vats, as opposed to just the juice, before being allowed to ferment without the addition of yeast.

Unaged mezcal is referred to as ‘joven’ and we found that the mezcal palenques (not distilleries in Oaxaca) were more experimental, occasionally infusing joven mezcal with fruits, spices, cacao or even turkey (yes, you read that correctly).

As for the worm…we didn’t see any. They are occasionally added as a gimmick but given that we spent our time with higher end, artisanal producers, our trip was worm-free.

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RECOMMENDATIONS I lost count of the number of tequilas and mezcal we sampled over the course of a week but you’ll notice the absence of the ‘big brand’ spirits. Once we experienced the difference in production quality between the smaller, artisanal distilleries or palenques and the more recognised brands, we steered clear of the likes of Patron, Don Julio and Sauza when we had the choice.

Starting in the morning and putting our tastebuds on the line for the article until late into the night. But despite the number of samples we tasted, there were some clear favourites amongst the group.

TEQUILA Blanco - we really liked Arette’s tequila blanco. The flavour profile had a character that can be enjoyed on its own or added to cocktails.

Repasado - the Fortaleza is our unanimous recommendation here. No question.

Añejo - this was a closer call, with opinions split between favouring Fortaleza’s fantastic, smooth profile and the slightly sweeter, Grand Mayan.

Extra Añejo - the high demand for tequila is really making it more difficult to find the extra añejo varieties on the shelf but we had the privilege of sharing the Fortaleza over lunch with their North American ambassador, Cobe and again, it was my favourite. However, those with a sweeter palette really liked the Grand Mayan and the Don Fulano extras.

MEZCAL Joven - Tough to pick a clear winner here, as there is such a spectrum of flavours.

My personal favourite was Mezcal Milagrito’s ‘Del Corazón’, which is so easy to drink. Gracias a Dios have a range of flavour profiles, which reflect the wide variety of agave they use and I really enjoyed the Tepextate, which is produced using Marmorata agave, grown in the wild and harvested after 25 years. It had a zesty, yet mineral flavour profile that was intriguingly complex. Mezcal Macuricho’s Espada is also worth an honourable mention in this category.

Reposado - The Espadín Reposado produced by Gracias a Dios is a herbal and spicy mezcal, with a citrus hit, made using Angustifolia Haw agave. The 4 month resting process gives the balanced complexity of the flavour profile, that develops well on the palate.

Extra Añejo - to say we were in the right place at the right time is an understatement. As we were chatting with the cofounders of Mezcal Milagrito, maestro Guillermo Hernández decided it was time to sample the mezcal that had been left to age in a French oak barrel for 4 years.

Rich amber in colour and a subtle, smooth flavour profile…you may not be able to get it yet but when it is finally bottled, it’ll be worth the wait.

Infused - another Mezcal Milagrito was highly prized amongst the group, which was a cacao-infused offering, but as this was being bottled exclusively for one hotel, it’s only right we recommend one that is a little easier to get your hands on. Gracias a Dios produce a special edition mezcal using Espadín agave, which is infused with local fruits before being distilled through turkey breast and we can see why they save this for special occasions.

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Cocktail - Suggestion -

Shared by our friends at Gracias a Dios, the Dizzy Oaxacan is a fabulously refreshing concoction, ideal for the summer months, made using their award winning EspadĂ­n mezcal.

1.5 oz of EspadĂ­n mezcal (or similar joven mezcal) 3/4 oz of Amaro Lucano 1/2 oz of fresh grapefruit juice 1/2 oz of fresh lime juice 3 oz of root beer Mix all ingredients, except the root beer, with ice. Pour into tall glass with fresh ice. Add root beer and stir.

Garnish with a slice of grapefruit and, if desired, salt.

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αLPHA How-to ... Smell like an

The Fragrance that Makes you a Leader!

WE WENT ON ANOTHER smelly mission. This time we wanted to find out which the manliest smell is. We actually read a study that found out that women at their peak fertility prefer the smell of men oozing with testosterone. Ok, there is A LOT more to the study, but let’s keep it simple here. So, over the last few months, we sporadically asked women which scent, which after shave and perfume suggests that you are dealing with a true leader, a provider, an alpha man? And the results were, well, surprising. Very few ‘modern’ scents were named, which is most likely because of a history, or long-term experience. But the results are in!

Gents, if being forever-desirable is a key factor in your life, you better check this list. Is your scent on it? No? And your personality and charisma does not get you were you want to be? Well, you may have to rethink your game then. We can’t guarantee you the title of Sexiest Man Alive ... but if you would like to find your next date on her knees (in all the right/wrong ways), it may be worth a shot to try. And ladies, does your other half own one of these scents? In that case ... you better get him a less attractive one. Just sayin’ ...

FABERGE BRUT 90ml - CAD 35

Another classic from the 1960s, Brut is “a powerful and compelling fragrance; It is recommended for evening wear.”

BRUT Original EDT One of the most iconic and popular men’s fragrances.

Launched in 1964 by Faberge.

The slogan? “The Essence of Men.” Recommended for casual wear.

100ml CAD 25

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DIOR - FAHRENHEIT 100ml - CAD 122

Around since the 1980s, Fahrenheit is a meeting of extremes. Fresh and elegant, bold and virile. Seductive.

Pinaud Clubman Pinaud Clubman After Shave Lotion is the quintessential after shave, the choice of barbers ... and was named several times as a Top Alpha Male scent. Where can you buy it? No idea - ask your barber!

177ml CAD 12

ARAMIS 110ml - CAD 92

Created in 1966, dedicated to men who appreciate tradition and classic.

“THE best, classiest, and sexiest scents a man can wear!”

Mr. Burberry The newest scent that made the list! Introduced in 2016, Mr. Burberry is “inspired by both the iconic black trench coat and by London – a city of great contrasts.”

100ml CAD 104

THE PEOPLE DRIVEN PLATFORM www.turncoin.io

The Gentleman

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

by Dr. Christian Brix

The Bachelor Party Most of us have the fortune of having been a part of the celebration to toast a friend on his way from the single life to the blissful institution of marriage. Those of us who have been to a few have probably experienced everything from the classy gentleman’s evening to the absolutely chaotic alcohol-fueled weekend of debauchery. For those who may be confused on how a stag “should” go down, we are here to offer some guidance.

The bachelor “party” has actually been a tradition since the Spartans in the 5th Century. At that time, it was a dinner to celebrate the groom, and they would toast him, feast together, and share stories. The purpose, even as it continued through the centuries, was to enjoy some male bonding and celebrate a rite of passage for men moving away from bachelorhood. It is literally only in the last couple decades that the bachelor dinner has devolved into the bachelor party, and the feasting and toasting is often replaced by gambling, strippers, and shots. Of course there is most likely a middle ground between the old and the new, and it is there that the gentleman should operate. We want to honour our groom, enjoy some bonding, and toast him into his new life, but we also want to make sure we have some fun at the same time! If your groom is in the ER getting his stomach pumped…you messed up.

-The planner - It is the best man’s job to plan the event.

Be it one night in your small town or a week in Ibiza, it is up to the best man (who presumably knows the groom best) to make sure the perfect plan is put in place. If it is an amazing success, or if it goes horribly sideways; it’s on him (yes, I just dropped a semicolon!) The key place to start is always an interview with the groom (and possibly his wife to be?) on what the ground rules might be. One needs to be 100% sure what will be tolerated, and what will not. Defer to what the groom tells you, but don’t forget that his future wife is going to be in your life for a long time, and possibly cooking meals for you in the future. While you’re at it, get an invite list from the groom as well.

- The Father - Inviting the father, the father-in-law, and the brother-in-law is always up to the groom. It is most often the case that there would be a dinner or an earlier part of the evening including said family, and then the events to follow are attended by only the groom’s closest friends.

Make sure you are a good gage of how “cool” your fiancée’s dad and/or brother might be with your evening plans.

- The Drinker - Of course drinking is often part of the bachelor party events. It is up to the boys to make sure the groom actually has a great time, but while still being able to function and actually remember the event. The best man may have to run interference and take a few for the

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team. Any other activities that involve further inebriation should also be considered (possibly even before the night starts) and decided on before the point where pretty much everything seems like a great idea.

- The Money - Sorry gents, but the groom should pay for nothing. On the subject of money, keep it reasonable for all attendees, and if someone important can’t make it work financially, then everyone else should consider chipping in.

If you are an invitee, make sure you are honest about what you can afford instead of getting stressed and strapped the whole time. Lastly, if the group agrees on specific entertainment and you would rather not participate based on your values or your fear of your wife, then unfortunately you still have to pay your part (not including a portion of the tips). Feel free to sit in the other room and wait for the sinners to finish sealing their eternal damnation.

- The Meal - The bachelor party must include a nice meal.

This is the tradition, and it is also the opportunity to roast the lucky bachelor and share some stories that probably shouldn’t be included in the wedding speeches. Make this part the highlight of the event to fit with tradition and to really use the opportunity to let the groom know he is loved…and probably an idiot based on the majority of your stories.

- The pusher - Most guys have that friend who gets a bit too excited about the “hazing” part of the party. He wants to cause the groom pain, get him way too intoxicated, dress him like Barbie doll, and torture him in any way possible.

Settle down buddy. The goal is to celebrate the groom and make sure he has the time of his life…it isn’t to injure him, scar him, and most likely as a result, to upset his fiancée.

This isn’t your moment pusher-man.

- The photographer - Every group has that friend who is way too into social media and taking pictures of every moment of his life. Don’t invite that guy. There is an unwritten rule (I suppose it is written now) that says there really not need be any pictures taken during the events. Of course if you are making bad choices you don’t want that shared (shame on you), but way more importantly, you should try being present in the moments and actually enjoying your time with your closest friends.

Dr. Christian Brix Dr. Christian Brix is a writer, a gentleman, and a Chiropractor living in and loving Kelowna B.C. www.brixfamilychiropractic.com

LEGACY

IS YOURS

TO LEAD

by Jason Boudreau

prepare those receiving them in advance for what is coming and why.

Empowerment is key and we all have so much to give. Diminishing health is also an important consideration because those granted power of attorney need to know what assets are available to look after the grantor, as well as what their care preferences are. This is crucial to maintaining loved ones’ quality of life in their final years.

Traditional attitudes towards estate planning often leave individuals and families grappling with secrecy and procrastination - important but not urgent items to deal with. Afterall, who wants to dwell on their own demise or ill health?

We believe leaving legacy is positive both for those giving, and those receiving, if planned for in advance, wellcommunicated and executed properly.

Let’s start with some facts; The leading edge of the BabyBoomers, the wealthiest demographic in history, starts turning 75 this year. As they are passing on and leaving their wealth to the next generation, the largest inter-generational wealth transfer of all time is taking place. In Canada alone, $205 million dollars moves per day from one generation to the next and it is expected to stay at this rate for the next 10 – 15 years. This is a staggering statistic, yet incredibly, nearly 50% of Canadians do not have a Will. How are those passing on their legacies preparing themselves, and those receiving these legacies, to handle them with such a low estate planning engagement rate?

Legacies are about more than money. They are about family, values, continuity, giving and community. And, rooted at the foundation of these principles is communication within a family and its stakeholders. Those leaving legacies can

Countless individuals and families find out what is, or is not, being left to them, only once a person leaving a legacy is gone. Given the traditional attitudes to estate planning, it is little wonder that there are so many estate litigation lawyers ready to launch into battle on aggrieved beneficiaries behalves. Fighting these cases is costly, time-consuming and destructive to families and their wealth. It is also entirely unnecessary when proper planning and inter-generational communication is at the forefront of a family’s values.

How prepared are you and your family? Visit our website www.velawealth.com/willingwisdom and take the Willing Wisdom Index to find out. Embracing the Willing Wisdom Index can help achieve a well thought out Will, confidence in granting Powers of Attorney and Health Care Directives, as well as lower legal fees.

At VELA Wealth, we believe that legacies are powerful, positive and can carry momentum intergenerationally. Preparing your heirs for a world without you is one of the greatest gifts you can give.

Gravity 2019 We are pleased to confirm Gravity 2019 will be held on June 12th at 6pm at The Terminal City Club. Our theme this year is Health and Wealth and we have some amazing speakers lined up. We invite you to experience and contribute to VELA Wealth’s Ecosystem. Tickets are available at www.velawealth.com

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

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DECRYPTION

Understanding the World of Cryptocurrencies and Blockchain Technology

How a cryptocurrency transaction works using Blockchain

by Oliver Finlay

WITH THE VOLATILE WORLD of investing experiencing a particularly tumultuous end to 2018 and the current political climate south of the border influencing investor appetite for investing in the stock market, other investment vehicles have unsurprisingly had the spotlight turned towards them. This isn’t anything new and any investment portfolio worth its salt should always demonstrate a good degree of diversity but over recent years, a new currency has been added to the vast array of options already offering a heady degree of choice for people to speculate on. Yet, given its astounding rise in value since its inception and spectacular slump over the latter half of 2018, cryptocurrency has commanded more column inches than many of its counterparts.

The combination of a relatively recent climb to prominence of cryptocurrency and its roots in technology have led to many experienced investors giving the crypto market the cold shoulder, in favour of more tried and tested methods of wealth management.

Much of this avoidance is caused by the large population of people that still just aren’t fluent in the language required to navigate the space. If you identify with this group and now feel a little embarrassed asking about the basics, read on, and Iconic Concierge will give you a Crypto 101.

So let’s start at the beginning and answer the obvious question, “what is a cryptocurrency?”. Interestingly, whilst digital currency systems had been in existence before, the birth of cryptocurrencies as we know them today, was in 2008, with the first decentralised currency being introduced in theory by a person of mysterious identity, calling himself “Satoshi Nakamoto”.

After registering the domain name bitcoin.org on 18th August, “Nakamoto” published a paper called “Bitcoin: A peer-to-peer Electronic Cash System”, which outlined a system that

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addressed the problem encountered by previous failed attempts at creating an online digital cash system, in that this was decentralised. A decentralised currency is one that has no central authority of governance or control (like a national bank) and as such is the property of the entire registered community. As with currencies such as the Canadian Dollar, the British Pound or the Euro, previous digital currencies had a central authority, which controlled spending to ensure that currency owners can not spend the same money twice. However, “Nakamoto” designed a way that every single user in the system was able to agree on every single transaction and account balance, thus enabling a universal consensus and negating the need for centralised deregulation. This system was called “blockchain” and we will explain this in more detail later.

It wasn’t until January 2009, when “Nakamoto” sent a computer programmer by the name of Hal Finney 10 Bitcoin, that the first cryptocurrency transaction was actually made. When it was first created, the Bitcoin had a value of a little over one cent but by the end of 2009, an indication of the potential meteoric rise of Bitcoin was to be seen, when the value per coin reached

$27. Shortly after this, the only known breach of the transaction protocol occurred, when in 2010, an unknown individual was able to “print” himself 184 billion bitcoins. Fortunately, a developer noticed the transaction, notified “Nakamoto” and the problem was swiftly resolved.

Later in 2010, the inaugural Bitcoin sale was executed, which consequently enabled a monetary value to be attached to a cryptocurrency for the first time, with a Bitcoin user swapping 10,000 coins for two pizzas.

Recognising that one Bitcoin was worth just over $3,600 at the end of December, 2018 and at its peak in 2017 reached $19,783.06, these have to go down as two of the most expensive pizzas of all time (hopefully there was no pineapple anywhere to be seen).

As the protocol of currency transaction was more widely recognised and accepted, rival cryptocurrencies to Bitcoin began to emerge in 2011, with Litecoin, Namecoin and Swiftcoin all reaching the marketplace.

However, as more currencies emerged, crypto controversies escalated with a complete lack of regulation in the space leading to asset laundering, exit scamming (where transactions for goods are not honoured) and the use of crypto to purchase illegal assets on the “dark web”, through sites such as Silk Road.

Subsequently, by way of protecting their citizens in the face of rising circulation, increasing transactions and soaring valuations, governments started to discuss how to manage the sector in the absence of central regulation.

Thailand banned Bitcoin and the People’s Bank of China prohibited financial institutions using it.

Germany refused to accept it as an official currency but did recognise it as “ a unit of account”, which paved the way for a future framework to be developed that would enable taxation of Bitcoin-based transactions. Meanwhile, in our own backyard, the first Bitcoin ATM was launched in a Waves coffee shop in downtown Vancouver in 2013 and as of December

2018, there are now over 4,000 worldwide, which allow individuals to exchange fiat government currency for cryptocurrency and vice versa.

How data storage works using Blockchain

As cryptocurrencies have become more established, the range of currencies in circulation is growing and currently Ethereum, Bitcoin Cash, Ripple, Dash and others have joined Bitcoin on the market.

In response to the numerous coin issues, there are now a number of crypto exchanges, such as Coinbase, Luno or CEX.io.

You can go online, select the most suitable exchange for your needs, depending on your geographical location, trading experience, whether you want to trade crypto currencies for cash (fiat exchange) or for other denominations of crypto currency (C2C) and how private you want your transaction to be, and within minutes you can be up and running. Meanwhile, more traditional exchange organisations such as NASDAQ, SIX Group (who operate the Swiss stock exchange) and Intercontinental Exchange (which owns the New York Stock Exchange) are all developing technologies to support digital trading and crypto asset platforms.

Further innovations are also entering into the space, with Singapore-based TheXchange due to launch a “people’s exchange”, which allows global users to participate in the popularity of professional athletes and to speculate on the burgeoning careers of amateurs.

The company recently showcased their proprietary two-coin architecture at an evening for interested technology investors, hosted at the Vancouver Art Gallery, featuring the Turncoin security token, as one of their many value components.

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Whilst various European governments have joined forces to cooperate on cryptocurrency regulation, the larger financial institutions remain cautious on the matter. The extremely volatile nature of crypto assets and reported ties to cyber criminals and fraudsters, caused many Wall Street executives to initially dismiss cryptocurrencies outright and three major US retails banks,

JP Morgan, Bank of America Merrill Lynch and Citigroup, do not allow retail customers to buy crypto assets using their credit cards. However, in recent months, attitudes are softening and some banks are starting to look more closely at the possibilities of trading cryptocurrency. Barclays have filed three patents in the space that would allow banks to verify the identity of customers banking using crypto assets and along with Morgan Stanley, have created a department tasked with researching the field more closely. Meanwhile, fund manager Fidelity Investments is building its own digital currency exchange and has already set up its own Bitcoin and Ethereum mining operations.

Asset management powerhouse BlackRock has also established an internal working group to look into cryptocurrencies and their underlying technology, blockchain.

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SO WHAT IS “BLOCKCHAIN”?

As previously mentioned, Blockchain was invented by “Nakamoto” in 2008 and outlined in his seminal paper as a means to serve as the public transaction ledger of Bitcoin. In a nutshell, Blockchain is an open, decentralised ledger that records transactions between two parties in a permanent way, without the need for third-party authentication, as transparency is ensured by the fact that all members have access to the information.

Imagine an ordered list of blocks, with each block representing a piece of information, for example a transaction, and having a unique label.

Each block is arranged so that it references the block that came before it and this then leads to the creation of a chain of blocks… hence the name! When a new block is created and added to the blockchain, all the information contained by the new block is available to every member of the network. Once the information is introduced into the system, it requires the consensus of all participants involved to modify it and hence the security is so tight. Given the process is so efficient, quick and inexpensive, the technology is now at the centre of a technological revolution. The distributed database is able to maintain a continuously growing list of all nature of ordered records of intra- and inter-organisational cooperation, each called a “block”, and not all are related to cryptocurrency transactions.

As Blockchain evolved, a second-generation system called Ethereum developed the smart contract, which built small computer programs directly into the blockchain, thus allowing other financial instruments such as loans or bonds to be represented. One of the key advantages of blockchain technology is the flexibility. The type of data stored within a blockchain is almost unlimited and contracts can be deployed in a myriad of ways. Execution of smart contracts is performed automatically by the network, which eliminates the need for third party supervision and with the data encrypted on a shared ledger, not only is security increased, but it is impossible to lose the information stored in the blocks.

One example of how far the technology has come; is that Dubai will see all government documents issued on Blockchain by 2020, with costsavings and innovation benefits justifying the cost of experimentation.

Meanwhile, the Abu Dhabi Stock Exchange and the Scientific Foresight Unit of the European Parliamentary Research Service are both exploring the use of the technology for voting systems, which would reduce cost and fraud, increase privacy and commodity, and also enable people to vote from their computer, phone or tablet.

The high speed and security properties of blockchains is precipitating innovation by companies working in supply chain operations, healthcare, insurance and real estate, whilst the automotive industry is facing a revolution of transparency. Details of service history, parts replacement, accident history and mileage can all be stored on blocks and the information can be maintained in the ledger in conjunction with insurance information, which is then accessible to those purchasing second hand vehicle. Meanwhile, the previously mentioned TheXchange (www.turncoin.io) will also use a platform that is blockchain-driven, because, as with other cryptocurrencies, blockchain technology is the perfect solution for such an exchange, allowing unlimited participants to have an instant, verifiable interface with their favourite sports personalities. This expands possibilities across the broader areas of popular culture.

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So, whilst the Blockchain helped create Bitcoin, the technology itself has become more relevant to the world than Bitcoin. Despite blockchains and smart contracts being designed to help develop crypto currency, their utility and applicability to provide solutions to real world challenges is obvious.

EXCLUSIVE VANCOUVER DREAM ESTATES

A MAGNIFICENT RECENTLY COMPLETED ‘DREAM HOME’ IN WEST VANCOUVER

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This exceptional newly completed grandscale luxury estate residence is situated on a prized half acre property and located in the confines of West Vancouver’s ultraexclusive and most prestigious Caulfield neighbourhood, just a short walk to Stearman Beach.

The architectural elegance and grandeur with its bold European Classic exterior and beautiful landscape create an impressive majestic presence and features over eight thousand square feet of formal and informal living on three expansive levels.

Exquisite design, master craftsmanship and opulent finishes blend seamlessly to create an international masterpiece while embracing the security and convenience of today’s most up-to-date technology.

Generous in scale and intimate in comfort, this is an estate designed foremost as a home: inviting, warm, private and

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- 4485 KEITH ROAD , WEST VANCOUVER spectacularly beautiful.

Enter into an impressive Grande reception hall leading to entertainment size formal living and dining rooms, a private study, large international, gourmet kitchen with adjoining daily eating area and generous family room all providing a wonderful indoor outdoor lifestyle with level, direct walk-out access to a private heated terrace with fireside lounge, poolside entertainment area, fabulous resort style heated infinity swimming pool and built in summer kitchen with BBQ. A sensational lower level is ideally designed for entertaining and includes a fabulous wet bar with feature glassed wine display and storage for a 1500 bottle collection, a fabulous Games room together with a state of the art Home Theatre that is truly in a class of its own.

The home offers six full Bedroom Suites and 7 and one half bathrooms including a lavish Master Suite with large walk-in dressing room as well as a gorgeous master bathroom. A private guest suite and nanny accommodation are ideally situated and complete this truly incredible family estate residence.

Many additional features of this exceptional luxury residence include a private elevator to all three levels, integrated lighting, security and smart home automation, air conditioning and three car garage.The entire property has been professional landscaped and is beautifully illuminated at night with dramatic effect.

By any measure its location, size, stunning interior, exquisitely landscaped grounds, or impeccable materials and craftsmanship sets this luxury estate in a class of its own !

MALCOLM HASMAN www.malcolmhasman.com

VANCOUVER’S TOP SELLING LUXURY AGENT Angell Hasman & Associates (Malcolm Hasman) Realty Ltd.

1555 Marine Drive, West Vancouver

604.290.1679

Built: Completed 2019 | Lot Size: 20,039 SQ FT | Floor Size: 8,274 SQ FT | 6 Bedrooms | 7.5 Bathrooms | $7.998 MILLION

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LoLo

Lower Lonsdale

The Coolest Neighborhood in North Vancouver

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words by Amanda Wood with real estate information by Jesse Dean Cook

The vast majority of my work consists of buying and selling properties in West Vancouver, but a lot of my recent sales have been fantastic investment properties in North Vancouver’s hip area of Lower Lonsdale, lovingly nic named “LoLo”. Taking after New York’s trend of shortening the descriptive names of areas such as “South of Houston” to the now famous “SOHO” or “Triangle Below Canal” for “Tribeca” or my favorite, “Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass” for “DUMBO” provides a sophisticated foundation for this district’s new nic name, “LoLo.”

LoLo is very desirable because it is steeped in history but is buzzing with a fresh new energy all while retaining a deeply rooted sense of community and an authentic and clear sense of self. LoLo has so much charm that people are flocking to the area to spend sunny afternoons on outdoor patios soaking up the sun or enjoying one of the many fantastic restaurant’s or coffee shops that boast incredible food, dedicated service and loyal customers that come back week after week enjoying the familiarity and friendly neighborhood appeal.

When it comes to the real estate market in LoLo the pricing of

new construction is incredibly competitive compared to other suburbs in the Greater Vancouver Regional District. Especially when you consider the proximity to downtown Vancouver and the ease with which you can commute across the Burrard Inlet.

The walkability score of LoLo is almost always in the high 90’s if not maxed out at 100. The public transit option of the Seabus is an amazing opportunity for people to live in LoLo but work downtown. The Seabus has capacity for 400 passengers, only costs a few dollars, takes 12 minutes to cross, comes every 15 minutes and connects you to an immediate network of transit options at Waterfront Station. It doesn’t get much better than that!

Another advantage that the LoLo buildings often enjoy is the south facing, unobstructed views of downtown Vancouver and the Burrard Inlet. The southern exposure of these units usually promises a good amount of sunshine which can often be taken away from units in areas such as Coal Harbour because of the shadow that neighboring buildings cast.

LoLo ‘s demographic seems to be a mix of young professionals, retired downsizers and young families coming down to the water front from the suburbs on the weekends to enjoy the many great restaurants and family friendly activities that the area offers.

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One of my family’s favorite events to enjoy is the highly anticipated Shipyards Night Market running every Friday from May 3rd, 2019 – September 27th, 2019. This free event features live music, more than 35 food trucks, a beer garden and artisan vendors encompassing the entire LoLo area from the Shipyards to Lonsdale Quay.

The area is a mix of fantastic new buildings such as The Polygon Gallery alongside refurbished original shipyard buildings such as The Pipe Shop and the home of Tap & Barrell. This blend of old and new creates a dynamic atmosphere deeply rooted in the areas local history.

Something I’m pretty excited about is the new $35 million outdoor ice rink and plaza being completed this year on a 1.6acre waterfront space at Shipyards Lot 5. This project is a longenvisioned space which will feature a mix of public event and commercial spaces. The outdoor wintertime covered ice rink will be the largest in the Lower Mainland at 12,000 square feet

and will double as a covered event space in the summertime along with an 8,000 square foot summertime water play area with plazas and walkways connecting the projects together.

There will be an additional 84,000 square feet of mixed-use commercial and community amenity space hosting a 70-room boutique hotel, Joeys Restaurant, Nook restaurant, cafes and a great selection of retail space.

Whether you call it Lower Lonsdale or are following the trend of “LoLo” what really matters is that it’s a fantastic opportunity to enjoy a well thought out community featuring family friendly spaces, sophisticated restaurants, galleries, hotels and easy transit to downtown Vancouver.

If you are interested in purchasing as an investment or to live in the area do not hesitate to contact me.

I’ll see you down at the Shipyards this summer!

FEATURED LISTINGS 502 - 475 13th Street West Vancouver

602 - 475 13th Street West Vancouver

8668 Foster Rd. Richmond

Offered at $2,329,000

Offered at $2,395,000

Offered at $3,688,000

RECENTLY SOLD IN LOLO - LOWER LONSDALE

SOLD - Offered at $675,000

SOLD - Offered at $629,000

LD

503-188 E Esplanade St North Vancouver

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109-333 E 1st St North Vancouver

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307-138 E Esplanade Ave North Vancouver

SOLD - Offered at $1,229,000

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F

ORBIDDEN VANCOUVER

OF

AN INTERVIEW WITH WILL WOOD

words by Oliver Finlay

IC: In ten words or less, who are you and what do you do?

WW: Put simply, I’m a walking tour guide!

IC: Where are you from and what brought you to Vancouver?

WW: I’m from London, England originally and moved to Vancouver in 2006 with my then-girlfriend-now-wife. The move was a whim really, but we’d loved it here so much we decided to stay! I transferred here with the company I worked for at the time, but I ditched the corporate world in 2012 to start Forbidden Vancouver Walking Tours.

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But I still love to shake off my fedora and hit the streets from time to time. I led a walking tour on Tuesday and had a fantastic time – walking the moonlit streets and alleyways of Gastown with a group of curious, interesting people was a magnificent way to spend the evening!

IC: What is it about Vancouver that has fostered such passion to want to shine a flickering gas light on its colourful history?

IC: So your personal relationship with Vancouver seems to have evolved since you arrived on the west coast of Canada? What do you do now?

WW: I started the company because I felt our city was under-served. There really weren’t tours available that got stuck into the city’s most interesting and unknown histories.

We’re a port city that has gone from a few thousand to around two million people in about 130 years. We’ve had a lot of people come and go, and a lot of winners and losers over the years – all those characters, events, and dramas left their mark on our city, and stories that we love to share!

WW: I feel totally entwined with Vancouver’s history now, like it’s in my bones. I feel a deep responsibility to share our city’s past with our guests, to transport people to another time. In terms of my own time, I now do more recruiting, mentoring and training guides than I do tour guiding myself.

IC: Forbidden Vancouver doesn’t sound like your average history tour. Where did you get the inspiration to bring the history to life through combining elements of theatre and storytelling, with a city walking tour?

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WW: Our Lost Souls of Gastown Tour is our most theatrical walking tour. It’s delivered by professional actors, in full costume and in character throughout. You hear the story of Victorian Gastown “first hand” from someone who survived smallpox, ran from the great fire while it licked the skin off their back, and was embroiled in a notorious murder. Our guests report back how it can be a magical experience – very unlike any other walking tour you’ll take. The inspiration for it came from me wanting to combine my love of history and storytelling with a desire to push myself as far as I could as an actor. The Lost Souls of Gastown Tour was the result!

IC: And you don’t just stop at walking tours. What other ways do you use to showcase historic Vancouver?

WW: Our Secrets of the Penthouse special event is a riotous evening of history, live music and Italian cuisine at the infamous Penthouse Nightclub on Seymour Street. The backstage tour is led by club owner and third generation Filippone family member Danny Filippone, often joined by retired VPD cops who used to raid the club when it operated without a liquor licence back in the ‘60s. We also have a sister company, Vancouver Mysteries, that stages immersive games on the streets of Vancouver – kind of like a cross between the Amazing Race and the board game clue. They’re hugely popular!

IC: What can people expect when they sign up for one of the Forbidden Vancouver tours, dinners or experiences?

WW: They can expect to spend time with a guide who is engaging, passionate, and educated, and who leaves them with a completely altered viewpoint on our city. Our goal is that every single guest on a Forbidden

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Vancouver experience remembers it for the rest of their lives.

IC: What’s your favourite story from Vancouver’s murky past that you love to tell?

WW: That’s a hard question! There are so many. I love talking about our former mayor L.D. Taylor, who cavorted with mobsters, oversaw a totally corrupt police force, and was himself a fugitive from the law (thanks to an embezzlement charge in Chicago). He was our longest running mayor! Plus he was responsible for one of the great quotes about Vancouver…”this ain’t no Sunday school town” IC: Given the keys to Doc Brown’s DeLorean, what year would you set, to come back and spend time living and exploring Vancouver?

WW: Oooh great question. For sure I’d love to go back and actually meet Gassy Jack, way back in the 1860s.

And our boom years of 1912-13 would be an exciting time to visit I bet, before the miseries of World War I. Vancouver was probably most different to today during the 1930s, when the Great Depression bit really hard. Otherwise the city has pretty much always been a real estate hot spot. So experiencing the Great Depression in Vancouver – the marches, the riots – would be something, even if it would be a sobering experience. But I think if I had to pick just one date, it would be back in the 1600s or early 1700s, before Europeans (or smallpox) arrived. To spend time

with Coast Salish people and witness their traditions, art work, and culture would be a real honour.

IC: What lessons can Vancouver’s Mayor and council learn from the City’s illustrious past?

WW: Well the tour we started our company with, The Forbidden Vancouver Tour, charts the history of liquor prohibition in our province, and the crime, agony and pain that went along with it. The parallels to our current opioid crisis are blindingly obvious. We must make heroin available on prescription and help our city’s most vulnerable people regain stability in their lives. Otherwise the deaths and misery will continue.

On a more wonkish policy note, I’m convinced all levels of government must again start building social housing for regular working families to live in. Our current housing crisis in Vancouver stems in large part from government halting home building 30-40 years ago.

IC: If you had the authority to award the keys to the City of Vancouver to anyone, with the gift of hindsight, who would you choose?

WW: Helena Rose Gutteridge would be a front-runner. She was a feminist campaigner in Vancouver before “feminism” was even really a recognized term. She fought for social justice, votes for women, created meaningful work for disadvantaged women and was the first women

elected to City Council. Vancouver could do with her now – she’d shake things up!

IC: Who has inspired you in the worlds of theatre and history?

WW: Most recently I read the Dharma Bums and Subterraneans

by Jack Kerouac – who I love. He has a conversational prose which in many ways mirrors how we approach storytelling. Plus he gives you this window into post war 1950s America, which is a real counterpoint to the trope of the nuclear family, living behind a white picket fence and driving a Cadillac. Whether his characters are adventuring across the continent, creating art, or throwing themselves into the jazz scene, he shares stories of remarkable lives.

Currently I’m reading a collection of short stories by Alice Munro, another one of my favourite writers – she’s someone else who deserves the keys to the city! She lived here for many years in fact. Munro is of course a titan of short fiction and doesn’t need much introduction from me! But I most appreciate her writing both for what she leaves unsaid, and the plot twists that hit you from our of nowhere. She’s a master storyteller.

From a theatre perspective I love George Bernard Shaw. I saw a production of Widower’s Houses in Richmond, London a few years ago which was a profound experience – it was a highly political piece for its time, that shined a light on the prevalence of slum housing in Victorian London. And the production was brutally simple – only a handful of actors and a single table and chair for props. To create a spellbinding experience without fanfare resonates with me as a guide and storyteller!

IC: What 3 words would your closest friends use to describe you?

WW: Engaging, curious, and (I hope) kind.

Entertaining Standard 10 Questions’…

Are you ready?

WW: Yes! IC: You lose everything you own. How do you rise like a phoenix from the ashes?

WW: I go back to what I know and love – I’d build a walking tour and start hustling to get the word out!

IC: We finish this interview and as you step outside, you find a lottery ticket that ends up winning you $20 million. What do you do?

WW: Well I guess the financial security that would give would be nice, but I do work I love today and I don’t expect I’d change that. It would mean as a company we could stage some larger productions, and maybe take a few more risks. Thinking aloud, I think using the money to create opportunities for young people to be creative -- to write, act, perform – feels like a really good use of it. Hard to say until I cash the ticket though!

IC: You can invite 5 people for a dinner party…and the guest list isn’t restricted by the confines of time and mortality.

Who joins you for dinner and why?

WW: Aargh what a question! On the one hand I find it hard to turn down a chance to share a dinner with the most famous religious icons: Jesus, Mohammed, Buddha etc. Maybe I’d throw Einstein or Isaac Newton in there too? Or Ricky Gervais? He seems like he’d be good value at a dinner party with the world’s great religious leaders.

But then I’d find it hard to turn down a chance to have another dinner with my four grandparents and my dad.

They’ve all passed now and spending one more evening together would be a priceless gift.

IC: Thanks for your glimpse into Vancouver’s former glories, Will.

IC: What was your first car, what do you drive now and what is your dream car?

Now, all that is left, is for you to take the stage and answer Iconic Concierge’s ‘Completely Unrelated, but Nevertheless

WW: My first car was a Peugeot 205 GTI. Doesn’t mean much in Canada, but for any Europeans they’ll know this was the ultimate boy racer car in the

‘90s! Now our family has a minivan – Honda Odyssey – which I am in love with. Minivans get a bad rap! I just wish we had an electric one.

IC: What one piece of advice would you give to your 16 year old self?

WW: Do what you love.

IC: Who would play you in a movie about your life?

WW: This is a hard one! It would be kind of hilarious if it was The Rock or Arnold Schwarzenegger circa his Conan the Barbarian days – since I am the complete physical opposite.

But seriously I think it would have to be someone English, given my unshakeable London accent. I’ll go with Martin Freeman. He played Tim in the original Office and was in Fargo on Netflix as well as Sherlock (he’s Dr Watson). I’ve always thought he gets it right with his characters.

IC: Where is your favourite travel destination and why?

WW: British Columbia! The scenery and beauty of this province are the real deal.

IC: Tell me your favourite joke…

WW: When the land around Vancouver was first logged, there were many British companies doing the work. Often the loggers would leave notches in the stumps, where they had put spring boards in as they felled the trees. There were also a couple of Spanish logging companies working in the area, who would add additional notches to the stumps. There were known as bonus notches. [with thanks to my friend John!]

IC: Where is your favourite Vancouver restaurant?

WW: Rice N Spice in Yaletown! It’s a curry diner and my go-to place.

IC: Complete the sentence: “Vancouver is a great place for entrepreneurs in 2019, because…”

WW: …we have highly skilled creative people in this city who can support you.”

IC: Conclusion

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TheXchange Party TM

Cryptocurrency start-up TheXchange hosted a magnificent evening soirée for tech savvy investors at the Vancouver Art Gallery. On the rooftop patio, overlooking Robson Square, CEO Rudolf Markgraaf welcomed guests with an introduction to the “People’s Exchange”, which will allow fans to invest in the popularity of public figures, starting with professional athletes, but later expanding to actors, politicians and business people. The blockchain-driven platform will allow unlimited investors to securely interface with their favourite icons of pop culture.

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Guests were treated to an exemplary dining experience presented by award-winning chef, Trevor Bird, which included an ice-sculpture turned-oyster bar, whilst Encore Vineyards’ McWatters Collection and Octavia Vodka furnished the occasion with further BC flavour.

TheXchange COO, Al Valez, explained how the platform will also provide opportunities for amateur athletes to share their story, raise their profile and encourage investment in their embryonic journeys. Additionally, CMO, Andrew Wainrib shared the philanthropic intentions of the organisation, which will see substantial charitable investment in sports-related causes from grass roots participation, youth education to athlete health and wellbeing projects around the world.

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In between presentations guests took the opportunity to experience the first Canadian exhibition devoted to the work of China’s preeminent couturière, Guo Pei. The incredible initiative by the Institute of Asian Art, entitled Guo Pei: Couture Beyond showcased more than forty complete looks from Guo Pei’s most iconic runways from 2006-2017. Providing a comprehensive overview of her evolution as a designer as well as an insight into her production methods and materials, the exhibition was one of the most talked-about features in the Gallery between the end of 2018 and beginning of 2019.

For more information about TheXchange , visit www.turncoin.io TM

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WELCOME TO THE WEST

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Sunseeker Luxury Yachts - Power, Performance, Elegance

SUNSEEKER – a boating enthusiast immediately recognizes the name as one of the finest builders of luxury motor yachts. Building and delivering well over 100 yachts a year, the company is Britain’s number one boat builder and won multiple awards on multiple boats, most recently best flybridge over 60 feet at the 2018 Motor Boat Awards.

And even if you are not yet familiar with the brand, you will most likely have seen their stylish boats – on the big screen. It seems James Bond himself got his eyes on the fancy yachts, using a Sunseeker in 1999’s “The World Is Not Enough” 1999), chasing up the Thames in the pre-credits sequence, as well as in “Die Another Day” (2002), “Casino Royale” (2006) and “Quantum of Solace” (2008). This latest outing showed both Sunseeker’s 37m Yacht and the Superhawk 43; it also featured a cameo role for Sunseeker’s founder, Robert Braithwaite, in one of Sunseeker’s very first open-cockpit speedboats, the Sovereign 17. Another bigscreen hero, Logan (Wolverine) is shown in the feature film of the same name trying to secure money to buy a Sunseeker and live with Charles Xavier and Caliban on the ocean.

THE HISTORY It all started back in the late 1960s, in the English seaside town of Poole, when Robert Braithwaite dreamt of building a new kind of boat. It was to use revolutionary materials and technology and would be tailored to a handful of customers, keen to embrace newfound

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freedoms. Braithwaite had worked at a company that sold various brands including small boats made by American boat builder Owens Cruisers Inc., who in 1969 decided they would no longer distribute their craft to Europe, announcing their decision to close the UK operation down. It was at this point that Robert Braithwaite saw a unique opportunity. With the blessing of others, he raised some cash, drove to Owens’ offices in Arundel, and negotiated a deal to acquire their boat moulds.

Poole Powerboats was born.

network of over 120 retail and service locations, exporting 150 yachts, from the all-new Hawk at 38 feet, up to the 161-foot yacht a year to more than 74 countries. The manufacturing is undertaken mainly in Poole, in seven production plants and shipyards. An additional deep-water shipyard is used to build the 105 yacht and larger vessels.

The range is stunning. From the incredibly stylish highperformance Hawk 38, designed by Fabio Buzzi Design, to the

The first craft, the Sovereign 17 launched in 1971, closely followed by the Sovereign 20. One of the first customers, none other than Formula One driver, Henry Taylor loved the boats but wanted one to accommodate a full-width sunbed. The team delivered and started a wave of early triumph, establishing themselves as a premium brand in the growing sports cruiser market.

Sunseeker had arrived and the voyage began.

TODAY Throughout the decades, Sunseeker has always pursued the more advanced, the more ambitious, the more creative – and consequently, the more successful. Sunseeker International now employs a dedicated team of over 2,500 highly skilled designers, engineers and master craftsmen supported by a worldwide

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luxurious line of Manhatten yachts, to the extravagant 161-foot superyacht, Sunseeker has it all. And be prepared to bring some extra time whenever you are on or around your Sunseeker – they get a lot of attention! After all, Sunseeker is not just a boat, it is a lifestyle.

And what many only dream, you can experience! You have worked hard to achieve it, now it is time to create unforgettable memories with friends and family. Live the life only you can. Love the experiences only a Sunseeker may bring.

M&P YACHT CENTRE With M&P Yacht Centre in Vancouver as the new exclusive distribution partner for Sunseeker, Western Canada is finally home to this exciting brand. And Sunseeker could not have chosen a better company for this new endeavour. M&P began as a family business in 1957, displaying hand-crafted boats and Mercury Outboard motors. Now, more than sixty years later, the business has three locations in Burnaby, Vancouver and Nanaimo and with Bob Pappajohn at the helm, still family-owned and operated, connecting boaters with the on-water lifestyle. With a reputation as “Vancouver’s Premier Powerboat Dealer” and a team of dedicated professionals who share the same passion for the water, it comes with little surprise that M&P Yacht Centre with its award-winning customer service is not only in the Top 100 dealers – they are the number one dealer in Canada, and rank 4th in all of North America!

If you are in the market for a new boat, make sure to visit M&P Yacht Centre. They will introduce you to their brands, from Boston Whaler to Sunseeker, and their exclusive owner’s club. The moment you buy a boat, you become part of a family that meets at numerous VIP events throughout the year, from getaways to the famous rendezvous. You will also get VIP invitations to premiers and boat shows.

M&P YACHT CENTRE | 510 Nicola Street | Unit #110 | Vancouver, BC | Phone: (604) 692-0333 | www.mpyachtcentre.com Sunseeker Hawk 38

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HONDAJET ELITE Most people will associate Honda with cars and motorcycles, but the Japanese auto manufacturer can also help you travel through the air. The Honda HA-420 HondaJet is the first aircraft developed by the Honda Aircraft Company. It’s is classified as a “very light jet” (or VLJ) and was designed in Japan and then developed and manufactured in Greensboro, North Carolina, United States. The first delivery to a customer was on December 23, 2015.

Only 30 months later, in May 2018, the US$5.25 million HondaJet Elite was revealed before delivery in August.

Honda describes it as “the fastest, furthest and highest-flying plane in its class.”

The private jet has a top speed of 782 km/h and an auxiliary fuel tank increases the range by 231 to 1,437 nmi (428 to 2,661 km). The elevator authority to reduce its takeoff roll has been increased by 400 ft (120 m). The new Elite jet’s two engines have been updated with a noise attenuating inlet structure that reduces high frequency noise to enhance cabin quietness.

The HondaJet Elite features six, two-toned executive leather seats, with two cockpit seats in addition to another four seats in the jet’s climate-controlled, 12foot cabin.

Behind the cabin is a private bathroom with skylights and a seat-belt so it can be converted into an extra seat. The HondaJet Elite also features a galley kitchen that includes a coffeemaker. As for the storage, the aircraft offers 66 cubic feet of cargo storage space in the rear and front of the plane.

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GULFSTREAM G600 SUPERIOR SPEED, SOPHISTICATION. The Gulfstream G600 represent Gulfstream’s next generation of private jets and delivers the industry’s next breakthrough with another ultralong-range aircraft that also offers best-in-class comfort, fuel efficiency and superior range at high speed.

The G600 is capable of flying 5,500 nautical miles/10,186 kilometers at its high-speed cruise of Mach 0.90 – connecting major international destinations. It has a long-range cruise speed of Mach 0.85, with a maximum operating speed of Mach 0.925.

Boasting the longest cabin in its class at about 45 feet/ 13.77 meters, the aircraft’s award-winning interior can accommodate up to 19 passengers in four living areas, with oversize quilted seats, sleeping berths for nine, a crew rest area, and an optional shower.

Owners can reflect their own distinctive style as they select from the finest materials, whether hand-woven rugs or bamboo flooring, a vast array of colors and patterns for upholstery, or fiber-optic lighting in headliners. The galley can be located forward or aft. On the technology side, high-definition monitors enhance business or entertainment. Satellite communications, internet connectivity options and an onboard printer and scanner allow passengers to stay in touch with colleagues on the ground. Conference tables can be stowed out of the way when not needed, and seats lie flat for overnight flights. With 14 Gulfstream panoramic oval windows, 100 percent fresh air, and a low cabin altitude, the G600 is designed for optimal passenger comfort and productivity.

The innovative Gulfstream Symmetry Flight Deck is equipped with the latest refinements in computer-controlled systems, featuring active control sidesticks and touch-screen avionics interfaces, both industry firsts. The Intelligence-by-Wire flight system provides highly calibrated flight controls, autothrottles and autobrakes to ensure peak engine performance and smoother, safer landings.

The Gulfstream G600 is priced at US$57.9 million.

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[1933-2019]

“if the devil wears prada, then the angels now wear chanel.”

On March 5th, the French fashion house Chanel paid tribute to Karl Lagerfeld, its late creative director, at the Paris Fashion Week.

Lagerfeld, who died on Feb. 19 at the age of 85, had served as artistic director of Chanel since 1983, when CEO Alain Wertheimer gave him “carte blanche” to reinvent the brand.

“It is with deep sadness that the House of Chanel announces the passing of Karl Lagerfeld,” the brand said in a statement.”An extraordinary creative individual, Karl Lagerfeld reinvented the brand’s codes created by Gabrielle Chanel: the Chanel jacket and suit, the little black dress, the precious tweeds, the two-tone shoes, the quilted handbags, the pearls and costume jewelry,” the brand added.

Chanel also lauded Lagerfeld’s talents as a photographer and director, noting his work for the label’s imagery, short films, and more.

He had been behind the lens for the brand’s fashion campaigns since 1987.

Lagerfeld was among the fashion trade’s most prolific couturiers, producing outfits for the Paris-based luxury-goods maker, for Italy’s Fendi SpA and for his own label— all at the same time. Recognizable for his high-collared shirts, white ponytail, dark sunglasses, and black fingerless gloves, Lagerfeld had a client list that featured stars of the stage and screen, including actresses Nicole Kidman and Cate Blanchett as well as singers Jennifer Lopez, Madonna, and Kylie Minogue.

Besides his genius sense for fashion, Karl Lagerfeld was also known – and feared – for his quick wit and silver tongue. On his inimitable image he once said: “I am like a caricature of myself, and I like that. It is like a mask. And for me the Carnival of Venice lasts all year long.” Unforgotten, his take on selfies: “They are this horrible thing where you are distorted. The chin is too big, the head is too small. No, this is electronic masturbation.”

Karl – you will be missed. On so many levels.

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photo by Dave Hamilton

business

women of

VANCOUVER

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Heidi Haraldson SOCIAL INFLUENCER | ENTREPRENEUR | GLOBAL SPIRIT | MODEL

words by Sophie Habgood

Argemiro Neto Photography

[PAGE 102]

Mark Tiu Photography

Carolina Kaneda Photography

DRESS - LEONE | JEWELLERY - LUGARO | WATCH - LONGINES | HAIR - EMME HAIR | Makeup - TALYSIA AYALA

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GETTING TO KNOW THE REAL HEIDI HARALDSON So you may have seen the beautiful @HeidiGwaii online, but do you know the real Heidi Haraldson?

More than just a model, blogger, actress and influencer, Heidi is CEO and Founder of two booming companies on the West Coast - Kysa Management and Madeira Candle Co - and I couldn’t wait to speak to her to find out more!

Heidi, why did you want to become an entrepreneur?

I was raised by a hard-working single mom. She was always self employed and instilled in me a strong work ethic.

My mother would often work 7 days to build her businesses. When I was in high school she even went back to university to further her education while working around the clock to raise my brother and I. She is the strongest woman I know, and she taught me to really work my butt off.

When I moved out at the age of 17, I was determined to make something of myself.

I took on two jobs that I kept all through college; hospitality in the evenings and as an administrator during the weekends.

After graduation I gained a position as office manager for a restoration firm.

I carried on doing this for a few years eventually moving to a similar position in the insurance/claims field.

During this time, I found I was just living for the weekend, constantly counting down the days till Friday. I wasn’t living for the work. It wasn’t my purpose, it didn’t fulfill me in any way, It really just became a paycheque. I am still very thankful for those years and the opportunities given to me. I built a great set of skills which prepared me to start my own business.

As an office manager I gained a strong understanding of a variety of roles from sales and marketing to accounting. It also made me realize that I’m not a 9 to 5’er and I no longer wanted to work for the man.

We think we know you from behind the photos for modelling, blogging, acting, but we want to know how this evolved into the business woman you are now?

When I first started modelling I was constantly reminded by my agents how tough it would be for me to find success being only 5-foot-7. I fired agent after agent who would misrepresent me, ask me to lose weight (I was already a size 2),

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or rip me off by taking huge percentages of my earnings. Eventually I found a lot of success working freelance by networking and building up my online presence. I found during this time I began offering a lot of advice to other young models hoping to represent themselves and grow as models/actors.

I had a few connections of mine who were young entrepreneurs challenge me at this time to leave the security of my office job to set up my own company. I was basically already an agent for a large group of my friends spending most of my free time teaching them how to invoice, collect payments and built a portfolio. I did this tirelessly with no financial gain to myself, it was just because I loved seeing others thrive in the industry they loved as well.

It was terrifying leaving the security of my salary job. I took a part time position as a VIP server at a nightclub to help with the start up costs. It felt like a major step back at the time as I hadn’t worked in the hospitality industry for a couple years. But now it was essential in starting up my company. I founded Kysa Management - a full service talent agency based in Vancouver, with a main goal of representing actors, models, promo reps and hospitality staff in a fair and equitable way.

5 years later I am so proud that with the support of a phenomenal booking agent and administrative team we represent over 300 men and women on our roster between the ages of 18 to 60, with a wide range of styles and ethnicities.

From my own experiences in this industry I understand the importance of feeling valued. I work hard to create a relationship with each person, and I enjoy taking the time to actually mentor them. My door is always open to set goals for their future, find coaches, and build their portfolios/ resumes. Through this practice I have been able to create a real company culture. The most rewarding part of having the agency is to see the actors/ models’ journey as they find not only success but often a part of themselves. ... and you didn’t stop there! Where did the second business come from?

3 years ago I stopped drinking. I did a cleanse for 30 days and it really skyrocketed my productivity. My company went to the next level and it’s become part of who I am now. It was a big lifestyle change but I’m very proud of it, and it meant that I had freed up some time to enable me to set up my second business.

From working in hospitality, I had access to all sorts of rare, beautiful champagne and liquor bottles and I thought to myself, wouldn’t it be cool to make something with them! I looked up how to cut glass on YouTube and began making candles for friends’ holiday gifts. Quite quickly after sharing some photos of them online, I had 10 new orders and the entrepreneur in me thought I have a business here! Within a couple of months I registered the name Madeira Candle Co. and turned my hobby into a second business.

Madeira Candle Co. transforms high end bottles that otherwise would have been discarded, into beautiful, custom candles.

It really balances my agency work which is often a lot of meetings and emails with the more creative, right side of my brain and I thoroughly enjoy it.

Who inspired you to become an entrepreneur?

I think strong, inspiring women who have decided to be brave and break away from the 9 to 5, the comfort and security of regular jobs.

A side from my mum, another big role model in my life is Shelley who was my mentor from Big Sisters of Canada. She is a successful businesswoman who taught me the importance of being an organized and strong individual. She has always been a huge inspiration to me especially when she took on a position sitting on the board of Big Sisters of Canada. Even over 10 years since I graduated from the program I still speak at their events sharing my story and the positive impact Shelley and Big Sisters has had on my life.

So you’re absolutely killing it, but what has been your biggest achievement to date?

This sounds strange but I feel taking the leap to invest in an office for my company last year was a massive step. After 4 years in business I felt ready to take that step and make that investment, it was the natural next move for the company. Invest in your business and invest in yourself. It feels so much more professional and I was so proud of myself. I had to do it to get the bigger clients at the next level, that was a huge achievement and a huge step for the agency.

For Madeira Candle Co, our biggest achievement happened a couple of weeks ago. We are going to be stocking the candles in ‘Inland Venice’ in Los Angelas, California, and I’ve just had this realization that ‘Whoa, we’re not just in Vancouver

or across Canada, we’re in the USA now too!.’

What are your thoughts on the industry you’re in? / What do you like about the industry you’re in?

I love the industries that I work in, but there are definitely areas with room for improvement. One of the reasons I started Kysa Management was because I was misrepresented, and I wasn’t afraid to speak up. I didn’t ask myself “how can I make some money?”

I asked myself “how can I do this better?”

I thought “How can I make people love this industry?” I want to help people create art and pay their bills at the same time. I wanted to help people work out what is right for them, and teach them the art and craft behind it, and help them feel comfortable and a sense of pride in their work.

Do you face any obstacles being a woman in business?

Definitely. I often feel like our rates for casting don’t get taken as seriously when they’re coming from a woman, and it takes a lot more to convince people. It’s a reality that I’m very aware of and I have recently brought on a male booking assistant for that reason.

I’m a woman still in my 20’s competing against other agencies that have been around for 30+ years so I really have to speak up and not back down in meetings. It’s a shame but I’ve gained confidence with our success and I almost enjoy the challenge of it now, I feel like I’ve really earned it by the end of a meeting when I get a firm handshake.

I like the feeling of surprising people.

I didn’t just settle for working for someone in an office. I like that I can influence, help and mentor people in a male dominated business. I thrive off that.

Where did the nickname Heidi Gwaii come from?

The name Heidi Gwaii came when I started modelling about 8 years ago.

One of the first photographers and filmmakers that I worked with came from Haida Gwaii, also known as the

ON THE COVER:

Makeup, Hair, Photography - Jessica DeBruyne

Queen Charlotte Islands, off the West Coast of BC. He’s a big part of the community - his mum is a Haida Gwaii princess. He gave me the nickname and it just stuck. I may not be from the island but I try to honour the culture sharing the story of the renaming of the Queen Charlottes to the proper native name; Haida Gwaii which means the Island of the People. It feels like a suitable nickname being that I am a woman of the people, mentoring and trying to giveback as much as possible.

As a business woman like yourself, you must have some big goals for what’s next! Can you tell me about these?

The future plan for Madeira Candle Co is to work with local BC Craft Breweries and Wineries. We are looking forward to creating candles for their stores and events, to support their marketing efforts. I am so proud to be from BC, I want to build relationships and support local companies - to support their story and their growth.

For my own model / influencer / blog goals, I want to travel more to resorts and hotels and showcase different properties around the world. Isn’t that the dream?

It sounds like a lot, but it really doesn’t feel like a lot when you love what you do!

I like to regularly write and look at my weekly goals, monthly goals, 6 month goals. I make sure they’re measurable and keep achieving them.

For Kysa Management, I want to launch the Principal Commercial Division of our company. It’s a huge undertaking that takes time as you have to prove yourself to the biggest cast directors and groom your roster with coaches etc, but I feel like it is the next step to push myself. I also want to launch the influencer division for social media, which is an obvious next step for us.

Heidi Haraldson wears ALEXANDER MCQUEEN by LEONE LUXURY FASHIONS

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LONGINES AGASSIZ 18 carat rose gold case with a black alligator leather strap. Case set with 98 diamonds (0.666 carats). Mother of pearl dial with black hands and Roman numeral hour markers. Longines Calibre 209 quartz movement. C$8,950 (LUGARO Metrotown)

Heidi

Haraldson

LONG OVAL GIA DIAMOND HALO ENGAGEMENT RING 18K white gold oval halo engagement ring featuring a 4.11 carat oval cut GIA certified diamond, accented by 0.88 carat total weight diamonds. Ring includes GIA diamond certificate.

PARK ROYAL SOUTH METROPOLIS AT METROTOWN DOWNTOWN VICTORIA

LUGARO.COM

DIAMOND DANGLE DROP EARRINGS 18K white gold diamond drop earrings featuring seventy-eight marquise cut diamonds totalling at 4.18 carat total weight, twenty-two pear shape cut diamonds totally at 2.52 CTW, accented by thirty round brilliant cut diamonds at 1.02 CTW. DIAMOND TENNIS BRACELET 14K white gold tennis bracelet featuring 7.28 carat total weight round brilliant cut diamonds.

On the COVER LONGINES DOLCEVITA An homage to the sweetness of life.

Stainless steel with 46 Top Wesselton IF-VVS diamonds, for a total of 0.552 carats. Movement: Quartz.

Alligator leather strap.

C$4,500 (LUGARO Metrotown)

DIAMOND STUD EARRINGS 14K white gold diamond studs featuring two 0.78 carat total weight round brilliant cut Canadian Diamonds. Earrings include Canadian Diamond Certificate.

UNTREATED RUBY & DIAMOND RING 18K white gold ruby and diamond ring featuring a 3.04 carat oval cut ruby, accented by twenty eight = 2.91 CTW pear shape diamonds, and sixty-six = 0.33 CTW round brilliant cut diamonds.

Includes GRS certificate.

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RUBY & DIAMOND NECKLACE 18K white gold ruby and diamond necklace featuring seven cushion cut rubies totally at 12.65 carat total weight, accented by seven pear shape cut diamonds at 0.70 CTW, ninety marquise cut diamond at 5.76 CTW, accented by seven hundred and seven diamonds at 7.06 CTW.

3.5 Million Swarovski Crystals

ONE-OF-A-KIND

MEETING & EVENT VENUE Stand apart from the competition.

Host your next product launch, executive retreat, or incentive stay at Sparkling Hill Resort.

Internationally acclaimed for our architectural magnificance and set above breathtaking vistas of Okanagan Lake and the surrounding mountains, the resort’s setting offers an unparalleled experience for group stays.

Our 10,000 sq. ft. of business facilities offer teams an impressive venue for productive meetings, while included access to our 40,000 sq. ft. KurSpa provides an oasis for your employees to work on achieving their personal best and recharge.

BOOK YOUR GROUP EVENT, MEETING, OR RETREAT AT SPARKLING HILL

Contact our Senior Corporate Sales Specialist by telephone 250.541.2175 or email sales@sparklinghill.com for more information.

www.sparklinghill.com

On-site team building options such as yoga, braving the -110 °C Cryo Cold Chamber and guided hikes are available to strengthen your group as a team.

Nearby off-site activities including skiing, wine tours, helicopter tours, water sports, and 36 holes of the best golf in Canada can be arranged to give your group a taste of what the Okanagan Valley has to offer.

Only 25 minutes from Kelowna International Airport with daily direct flights from Toronto, Winnipeg, Calgary, Edmonton, Vancouver, Victoria & Seattle.

Request more information on our website at sparklinghill.com/ corporate-retreats.

“IF YOU THINK CHOCOLATE AND ROSES ARE GOOD ENOUGH, THINK AGAIN !”

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WHAT WOMEN WANT...

YOUR SHOPPING GUIDE FOR SPRING

Spring breeds new trends straight off the runway and this year there’s so much which can be daunting. We’ve narrowed it down to showcase the top looks for 2019 and some of my personal faves! Spring 2019 brings a rainbow of bold colours, a 90’s revival and the most luxurious skincare options to transition with the season. Here are my spring must haves to start shopping now.

CARTIER Guirlande de Cartier Bag Launched in Singapore this month, Cartier’s Guirlande de Cartier bag collection is making waves through the fashion world. They are available in three beautiful colours (classic house red, dark green and timeless black) as well as three sizes (mini, small and medium) to perfectly fit your style. Along with an adjustable and removable strap, these bags are customizable especially with the option to have the bag embossed with your initials. Makes for a perfect gift for someone special this spring!

Cartier Guirlande De Cartier mini in red, $2,770

VALENTINO Studded Leather Pumps We’ve been seeing a 90s revival in many ways over the last year, mainly on the runways until now. The square toe is having a resurgence showcased with satin pumps and flats from Erdem and in the form of high heeled boots at Cavalli.

Square-toed shoes are here to stay and if you want to stay on trend, these Valentino Garavani’s ‘Uptown’ pumps are a good place to start. Topped with a band of signature palegold ‘Rockstuds,’ they are created from smooth cream leather, featuring a loafer-inspired fringe at the front. The 90mm block heels provide just the right amount of lift while also giving ample support to last throughout the day. Made in Italy, these beauties will be in your closet for years to come.

Available at Net-a-Porter for $945.

OMEGA Trésor With the arrival of the new Trésor collection, OMEGA has proven that their reputation for luxurious women’s watches stands true. With a modern yet classic feel, it’s no wonder why these timepieces prove to be a popular choice. This year a new selection of styles are unveiled, including this unique model in red and white.

This new timepiece includes a polished 36mm case that has been crafted in stainless steel. Staying true to Tresor’s signature style, the case is also set with 38 single-cut diamonds, which curve elegantly along each side. Most distinctive is the new combination of colours, showcasing a white lacquered dial surrounded by red roman numerals, complemented by a matching red leather strap. In addition, there is a single diamond situated on the crown surrounded by a red ceramic flower made from the five OMEGA logos. On the back, the OMEGA Calibre 4061 is positioned behind a polished mirror caseback embellished with a metalized “Her Time” pattern.

C$ $5,550. Available at the OMEGA Boutique Vancouver.

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THE MOST LUXURIOUS SKINCARE With the change in seasons, although bringing muchwelcomed warmth and light, it can certainly wreak havoc on your skin. Just as soon as one routine offers positive results, the shift in temperature and humidity may cancel everything out. These two key luxury beauty products are ideal for those in search of glowing, fresh, hydrated skin as we move further into the spring season.

The Valmont Elixir des Glaciers collection, Essence of the Bees, captures the amazing benefits of bee products in the potent eye lifting serum Sérum Précieux Vos Yeux. The luxurious collection features three key ingredients with unprecedented health benefits: honey with moisturizing and skin reparative properties, propolis (sealant in bee hives) for purifying capabilities, and the nutritious royal jelly for a skin regenerative effects. The Essence of Bees Complex and Eye Lifting Complex found in the satin serum, lessens the appearance of wrinkles and visibly lifts eyelids, noticeably awakening eyes.

Available at Valmont Cosmetics: www.valmontcosmetics.com

CHRISTOPHER ESBER V-Neck Blazer Of course the suit is a wardrobe classic which is nothing new, however this season we are seeing a Starburst of colours and cuts for suiting options! Shorts, skirts, jackets and pants come in bright, bold hues and they are meant to have impact as a complete look, as we saw at Chanel and Gucci, or can be combined with softer hues and dressed down for a more casual look with denim, as they were at Giuliva Heritage Collection and Victoria Beckham.

This green silk v-neck blazer is from Christopher Esber and features a front button fastening, long sleeves and front flap pockets. The mid-length offers versatility with your look and can be paired with a blazer for a more relaxed or fitted lower half. Whatever the shape, it’s all about colour!

Available at Farfetch for $1,358

The Ultimate Romantic Getaway SOUTH AFRICA: Karkloof Safari Spa & Yoga The couple that travels together, stay together. Well this year, up your romantic game with a long-haul spa and yoga break to Karkloof Safari Spa in South Africa. A one-of-a-kind romantic oasis awaits you, with an added adventurous element of astonishing wildlife surrounding the 2000-hectare reserve.

Relax together at the award-winning spa and indulge in a wide range of exotic spa treatments from uplifting grapefruit facials to black pepper scrubs. After a fruitful cleanse, discover the jewels of the African jungle with a fascinating Safari game drive and thundering waterfall for memories that will last a lifetime.

Delve into the restaurant’s nutritious and organic cuisine with a backdrop of splendid African sunsets.

Health and Fitness Travel offers 7 nights at Karkloof Safari Spa from $4,855 pp. Price is all-inclusive, with a spa programme and return private transfers. www.karkloofsafarivillas.com *Complimentary Karkloof Canopy Tour excursion for Health and Fitness Travel Guests (valid for 5 night + stays)

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ARTS & MUSIC VANCOUVER’S ICONIC ART SCENE IN REVIEW

by Oliver Finlay

VANCOUVER OPERA closed out the winter with a wonderfully warm production of Puccini’s much-loved La Bohème. First performed in Vancouver by the company during their first season in 1960, this performance was lead by tenor Ji-Min Park, singing his 100th La Bohème, as Rodolfo. Many of the rest of the principle cast were Canadian, including the splendid soprano, France Bellemare, who excelled in the role of Mimi.

Doucet and Barbe’s interpretation of this operatic masterpiece, emphasised La Bohème’s humour and vitality, which was epitomised by the set design. Whilst researching the Marché aux Puces de Saint Ouen, Paris’ largest flea market, the creative team experienced a sense of timelessness and connection with history, which inspired them to intertwine the past, present and future together throughout.

Framed with a vintage postcard border, the performance opened in the current day, with a tech-savvy but cancer-stricken tourist exploring a stall in the Parisian flea market, specialising in objects d’art from the 1920s. Feeling unwell, the woman daydreams about the city of that era, a magnet for artistic expats, and starts to imagine the central characters in their colourful existence of hardship. As her imagination draws her in, she begins live out the fantasy of Mimi, conveyed by some of Puccini’s most celebrated orchestral writing.

Coupled with some fabulously expressive character performances and the vibrancy of the set and costume design, this portrayal of La Bohème was an absolute joy to behold. If the rest of the Vancouver Opera season continues in this vein, then we are in for an absolute treat over the next 12 months.

For information about the upcoming Vancouver Opera Festival and the rest of the 2019-2020 season program, which includes the classics La Traviata and The Barber of Seville, along with Another Brick in the Wall: The Opera, the operatic version of Roger Waters’ The Wall, go to www.vancouveropera.ca As the spring weather started to raise the spirits of the city, the VANCOUVER SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA continued their eclectic start to their centennial year with their Spring Festival curated around the theme of Music and Power, presented by Volvo Car Canada.

The festival commenced with a fascinating pairing of the works of Wagner and Mendelssohn, which reflect the contrasting perspectives of the Germanic society in the 1930s and 1940s. Wagner’s works were famously admired by Adolf Hitler and appropriated by the Third Reich, being played at many Nazi events throughout the Second World War. In stark contrast, Mendelssohn’s works were banned from performance and publication by the regime, given that he was born into a prominent, Jewish family, even though he was raised without religious education and was later baptised in to the Reformed Church. Furthermore, Wagner’s vitriolic public criticisms and defamation of Mendelssohn and his work, add to the juxtaposition of the works being played side by side.

Joined by sopranos Robyn Driedger-Klassen and Eve-Lyn De La Haye, alongside the UBC Opera Ensemble, Maestro Tausk directed wonderful excerpts from Mendelssohn’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream: Overture Op.21 and Incidental Music Op.61. The compositions have such energy and humour about them, which the orchestra portrayed fabulously and the choral accompaniment was exceptional.

Maestro Tausk selected works from Wagner’s operatic work, Götterdämmerung (Twilights of the Gods). The opera, which draws upon the relationship between simple mortals and power-hungry gods, tells a tale of greed, love and redemption. Inspired by Norse legends, the total work spans an extensive 15 hours. Tausk’s selection of Dawn and Siegfried’s Rhine Journey and Siegfried’s Death and Funeral Music illustrated the emotional depth that Wagner often expressed in his work, whilst soprano Tracy Cantin delivered a performance of impressive agility and incredible power through her recital of Brünnhilde’s Immolation.

For information about the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra’s upcoming concerts, that include offerings for a wide variety of ages and musical tastes, visit www.vancouversymphony.ca

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“Fazioli lets my imagination soar.”

– Sanaz Sotoudeh

W W W . S H O W C A S E P I A N O S . C O M

CITY tonight!

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by Jim Gordon & Leeta Liepins

The Iconic Concierge Magazine version of the weekly, national TV show, “Our City Tonight”, which can be seen Sundays at 12:30pm on City TV. You can also see past episodes on the “Our City Tonight” YouTube channel and follow them on Instagram & twitter at: @ourcitytonight @jimgordontv @lifewithleeta

www.hawksworthrestaurant.com Rosewood Hotel Georgia 801 West Georgia Street, Vancouver

HAWKSWORTH RESTAURANT

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ince its debut in 2011, a lot has been written about the award-winning Hawksworth Restaurant and the man behind it, David Hawksworth. And this restaurant certainly was a big part of ushering in a new, upscale era in Vancouver dining which has continued to flourish almost a decade later. We have enjoyed this restaurant a number of times over the years, but on a recent, spring afternoon, our goal was to sample another side of this iconic location: the Hawksworth “Cocktail Hour” (daily, 4 to 6pm). Planting ourselves in their comfortable, cozy lounge (we highly recommend the couches by the street level windows), we started with two superb cocktails – a Negroni with Beefeater Gin, Cinzano Rosso & Campari and a Negroni Sbagliato with Cinzano Rosso, Campari & sparkling wine.

It was then time for a glass of wine. We purposely chose the white and red selections they offer on this menu – the Domaine Gayda Grenache Figure Libre from the Roussillon region of France, and the Araldica Castelvero Catarratto

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Da Bero organic white from Sicily. It’s no secret that barely adequate wines can be found in a lot of “Happy Hour” menus, but we are glad to report these two wines are a great choice. From there, we moved on to the impressively diverse “Cocktail Hour” food menu.

Many places offer select menus during this 2 hour window, but often there’s little from which to choose – and if you’re a regular reader of this column (and viewer of our TV show), you may know that with us, there are some dietary challenges: no gluten or garlic.

We were pleasantly surprised to find that the choices were plentiful! We started with delicious KFC – Korean fried cauli-

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flower with sesame & cilantro and an order of truffle fries. This was followed by an order of crispy buttermilk chicken with pickled celery & spicy maple sauce.

One of the elements they have perfected with this menu is getting the amount served just right. The two of us could easily be full at this point in other restaurants, but these selections are perfect for two. Several more courses followed, starting with market fresh oysters with lemon, horseradish, and red wine black pepper mignonette. And last but certainly not least, was the Hawksworth beef burger with applewood bacon, & cheddar (it comes with house cut fries & harissa aioli but we had already indulged in the truffle fries so we showed rare discipline and shared an order).

They take pride in this burger, and we can see why.

LEON BRIDGES

Relaxing after a great meal (and we should add great service), we were joined by Scott Garrett, Director of Operations for Hawksworth Group. Chances are you have dined in places he’s overseen, Coast and Joe Fortes among them. Having joined the Hawksworth Group not long ago, we were keen to hear his thoughts on what they hope to accomplish with this “Cocktail Hour”, as everyone knows of Hawksworth the restaurant, but the lounge, maybe not so much. “We want to offer something to that customer who’s looking for a high-quality snack or meal, maybe a cocktail, in a relaxed atmosphere” Garrett, told us. Our take away: Although some locals may not view Hawksworth Restaurant as an accessible dining choice, their “Cocktail Hour” deliciously and affordably proves otherwise.

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