SPRING 2021
COMPLIMENTARY
ICONIC
THE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE FOR THE AFFLUENT GENTLEMAN
THE BEST WATCHES FOR GEARHEADS
Villa San Michele, Firenze
publisher’s LETTER
hit the road...
we started with an aviation edition, followed by yachting, and we now conclude our little air/water/land series with ... automotive. the newest and the coolest, trends for the exterior and the interior of your car, the rise of small companies offering interesting electric alternatives to the big players, and much more! spring is in full swing, summer is just around the corner and there is finally some progress in getting us all back to something resembling normality. however, big international travel adventures are still months away and thus we will once again have to explore our own great outdoors. so, take the winter tires off, shine up your ride, get ready for some fun…and hit the road! isn’t a qr-code a thing from the past? a lost relic? something from the last decade, ignored by most of us? it sure seemed like it. but then came the pandemic and with it social distancing. we were told to avoid touching surfaces that might harbour the virus, and so, the qr-code that can be scanned using any smartphone, was the solution. digital restaurant menus and other practical applications reappraise the humble matrix barcode - and so do we! throughout this edition you will find qr-codes that will give you access to extra information or video-clips. yes, now you can finally see us go head2head in some cool cars, you can do a virtual walk through a million-dollar listing or watch a documentary connected to our article. so - scan away! and start with the cute qr-code right next to it to follow us on instagram!
olaf robrecht publisher olaf@iconic-concierge.com
follow us on instagram
have a great spring!
did you notice ...? Yes, it is FAKE! We are talking about our cover picture. Ceramic Kings pretty much have laid hand on the most exclusive supercars, giving them individuality and protection, but as it would have been almost impossible to get them all together for a photoshoot, they opted for a different route. Demonstrating the capabilities of their professional 3D wrap-software, ZENO, each individual car was given a digital vinyl wrap, placed in a scene and then rendered. A collaboration between the OCHK Group and software developer xix3D, the result is stunning. Head over to our Automotive Trends section in this edition to learn more about the software and how this cover came to life.
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ICONIC CONCIERGE
BOUTIQUE VANCOUVER BOUTIQUE VANCOUVER
1080 Alberni Street • Tel. 604 559 8883 1080 Alberni Street • Tel. 604 559 8883
BIG BIGBANG BANGUNICO MECA-10 18KBlue Kingceramic Gold case setIn-house with diamonds. case. manual In-house UNICO chronograph movement. movement, with a 10-day power reserve.
ICONIC CONCIERGE
vol. 19 [2021]
www.iconic-concierge.com
On the cover: CERAMIC KINGS X ZENO
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:
DR. OLIVER FINLAY JASON BOUDREAU, KEITH TRUSLER, DR. OLIVER FINLAY, JULIE-ANNA VOGEL, DR. CHRISTIAN BRIX, JIM GORDON KEVIN UY MIKE STRAUS YADA-YADA MEDIA please contact iconicconciergemagazine@gmail.com
iconic_concierge Iconic Concierge is published by
Printed in Canada.
All rights reserved. No part of Iconic Concierge Magazine may be reproduced or transmitted in any form without the expressed written consent of the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject any editorial or advertising material. The views expressed in Iconic Concierge are those of the respective contributors and not necessarily those of the publisher or staff. Although all reasonable attempts are made to ensure accuracy, the publishers do not assume any liability for errors or omissions anywhere in the publication or on the website. Iconic Concierge reserves the rights to ads produced for advertisers.
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New Flying Spur V8 The new Flying Spur V8 is an impressive and dynamic expression of the Flying Spur range, now featuring an agile 4.0 litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine. An exquisite four-door grand tourer that offers exhilaration and refinement for both the driver and the driven. Now available at Bentley Vancouver. 1770 Burrard Street Vancouver, BC, Canada | 604.730.8998 | bentleyvancouver.ca
BENTLEY VANCOUVER
dreamT E A M
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.
OAKLEY CHAN sourcing specialist
A true entrepreneur since a young age, Oakley is the president of the OCHK Group of Companies, with offices in Richmond and Hong Kong. He has a penchant for identifying the needs of businesses and individuals and providing innovative solutions that challenge the norm. He is at the forefront of new developments, products, and technologies and does not shy away from putting ideas into reality.
CRAIG STOWE luxury events
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 20 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.
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Craig is recognized as Vancouver’s #1 creator and producer luxury events bringing together affluent buyers and sellers of luxury brands in an engaging business social setting. He is the Founder and President of Luxury Alliance Group, Luxury & Supercar Weekend, Hublot Diamond Rally, PorscheRally, TennisLoveChampagne and Global Spirits Festival.
NATALIE LANGSTON
GEZ MCALPINE
lifestyle editor
imbibing authority
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.
Prior to working with some of the most highly regarded luxury spirits in the world, Gez operated some of the world’s best drinking establishments from Melbourne to Los Angeles & Vancouver. He is a WSET level 3, Gold Certified BNIC Cognac educator, Multiple time global cocktail competition finalist, and most importantly truly passionate about spreading the word of premium spirits.
MALCOLM HASMAN
JASON BOUDREAU CFP, CLU
luxury real estate specialist
wealth advisor
Malcolm Hasman is respected as the industry leader in the marketing of Greater Vancouver’s premier luxury real estate and offers the most effective and successful marketing platforms available in the industry today. Simply put no other real estate agent, over the past 25 years, has sold more of the city’s premier luxury properties than Malcolm.
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
JULIE-ANNA VOGEL
caribbean correspondent
travel consultant
Currently at the helm of a new restaurant & bar in Barbados, Keith was a Brand Ambassador for numerous Luxury Brands. A veteran of the restaurant industry in Vancouver, he has extensive experience as a bartender, mixologist and chef. As a Connoisseur of spirits and wine, he tirelessly pursues the finest dining and imbibing experiences the city has to offer.
Always on the road, Julie inspires others to explore on and off the beaten path. Having traveled to more than 100 countries, she shares her experiences on www.julieabroad.com and uses her skills as a travel advisor to help create dream getaways. Follow her in uncovering the ‘must-dos’ of the world’s coolest cities in her column “A Gentleman Abroad”.
sport, health & fitness
DR. 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 10:30pm on CHEK 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 COLUMNS
FEATURES
AUTOMOTIVE
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30
16
20
An Interview with Alejandro Agag
The Emory 356 RSR
44
18
Watches for Gearheads
The 56” Mercedes-Benz Hyperscreen
50
26
Geneva
Aston Martin Formula One
84
42
Blue Estate
Bowlus Terrafirma | Airstream Basecamp 20
86
52
The Danger of Losing the Human Touch
McLaren GT vs McLaren 720 Spider
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56
ark2030 and the Future of our Planet
2021 Bentley Continental GT
90
60
How to Master Sleep
Trends in Vinyl Wrapping
Publisher’s Letter
The Manly Man Steve McQueen
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The Specter Journal You Want This!
66
In Style!
Fragrances for Men
94
Get Summer Ready
Medical Aesthetics for Men?
96
What To Wear...
When The World Re-Opensl
100
The Gentleman
They Should Have Taught You This In School
108
What Women Want
Forget Chocolate and Roses!
110
High-Voltage
Gone in 60 Seconds
Watches And Wonders
The Floating Island
Welcome to a Virtual Reality
What is the Money for?
The Big Sleep
102
Quest For A King The World of Louis XIII
Our City Tonight
Ancora Waterfront Dining
112
Real Estate
Vancouver Dream Estates
COVER
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Automotive Special
WATERCRAFT
Touch Me!
Welcome Back!
Travel Trailers
Head2Head
The Quintessential Grand Tourer
Let’s Wrap It!
64
Royal Rides
Dubai Off-Road Museum
68
Just Do It.
Concept Cars.
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82
The Coolest Retro (Style) E-Rides
Bering 72 | Crescere 433
80 Sunreef Power Eco | Azimut 53
Back To The Future
74
Enjoy The Silence New Electric Vehicles
DESTINATIONS
44
36
Watches for Gearheads
3 Road Trips in BC
Hit The Road
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The Gentleman Abroad Chicago, USA
ICONIC CONCIERGE
Ultimate Outlaw
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Cars, Cars, Cars ...
Gone in 60 Seconds
14
/ spring 2021 /
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The Need For Speed
The Fastest Production Car in the World
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A Force of Nature 2021 Maserati Levante
CONTENTS
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68 70
102
44
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ULTIMATE OUTLAW THE EMORY 356 RSR
This must be the most extreme outlaw Porsche on the planet. Rod Emory has been customising and creating exceptional Porsches since the mid-1990s, building a reputation for his attention to detail and quality that even the factory approves of.
Macey. “The idea was to create an homage to the Porsche works 935 cars of the 1970s while retaining our Emory 356 Outlaw styling,” says Rod Emory. “We posted the sketches on Instagram and Momo chief executive Henrique Cisneros reached out and asked what it would take to turn the concept into reality.”
Emory Motorsports offers three basic design styles: Outlaw; Special and RS, which are then customised to suit the taste of the client. This RSR, however, is so radical, it takes the Outlaw design to a whole new level.
It took a full four years to create this RSR, which actually merges a 1960 Porsche 356B Coupé and a Porsche 911 (964) C2 chassis. The heart of the build is a 2.4 liter Emory/Rothsports Racing flat-four custom-built motor, based on the 3.6-liter flat-six powerplant from the 1990s. It produces 393hp thanks to two Garrett GT28R ballbearing turbos and a purpose-built fuel-injection system.
“People had strong reactions when we debuted the 356 RSR,” Emory remembers. “It was too over-the-top even for some of the forgiving purists.” It all started with an idea and a sketch from Emory’s friend Greg
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Whether you love it or hate it, this Outlaw is definitely a headturner and sets a high bar for future builds. www.emorymotorsports.com
TOUCH ME!
THE 56-INCH HYPERSCREEN OF THE 2022 MERCEDES-BENZ EQS
MOVE OVER, TESLA! Yes, they may have popularized the large vertical infotainment screen but the screen that will be offered in the upcoming 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQS electric sedan dwarfs the tablet that shocked the world when it was first introduced in the Model S. Spanning almost the entire width of the dash at 141cm and covering a whopping 2,432.11 cm2 (2.6 square feet) of dash space, the optional Hyperscreen houses several different interfaces and offers a surface that will be curved in three dimensions. It is protected by scratchresistant aluminum silicate, formed at temperatures of about 650°C, allowing for a clear view from any angle, and features three main display areas: a digital instrument panel for the driver, a central touchscreen operable by the driver and the front passenger, and a smaller screen just for the front passenger. The only openings are for the beautifully integrated AC vents. In total, the system runs eight CPU cores and 24 gigabytes of RAM. 12 actuators generate a haptic feedback so you can pinch and swipe. The passenger’s screen automatically switches off (or to a static image, such as the stars in the images above) if there’s no-one sat in the passenger’s seat. According to Mercedes, the Hyperscreen is “radically easy to operate”, and employs “artificial intelligence (AI) with software that is capable of learning, which allows the display and operating system to adapt to its user and make personalized suggestions for infotainment, comfort and vehicle functions.” OLED technology is used in central and passenger displays, meaning that individual image points are selfluminous, while non-controlled image pixels remain switched off and appear deep black. The active OLED pixels radiate with high colour brilliance, resulting in high contrast display regardless of the angle of view or the lighting conditions. Graphics are styled in a new blue and orange colour scheme throughout. The 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQS is due to arrive before the end of the year.
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Speed Rating Speed Rating W, Y W, Y
Temperature Temperature A A A A
FEATURES FEATURES
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Load Index Load Index ≤ 103 ≤ 103 ≥ 104 ≥ 104
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THE
MANLY MAN
“
When I did ‘The Great Escape,’ I kept thinking, ‘If they were making a movie of my life, that’s what they’d call it the great escape.”
steve
McQueen RACER | ACTOR | KING OF COOL
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It was 1968 when the nonconventional Steve McQueen arrived on set of The Thomas Crown Affair, wearing a pair of Persol 714 sunglasses. Visit www.persol.com to see the limited edition Steve McQueen sunglass collection. photo: William Claxton/ Persol
“Racing is life. Anything before or after is just waiting.”
ICONIC CONCIERGE
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TERRENCE STEPHEN MCQUEEN was an American actor and top boxoffice draw during the 1960s and 1970. Nicknamed “The King of Cool”, Steve McQueen remains one of the most influential actors and icons of popular culture, almost 40 years after his death in 1980. Born on March 24, 1930 in Beech Grove, Indiana, McQueen was raised by his grandparents and lived through a troubled youth, spent mostly in reform schools. With the Great Depression in full swing, his grandparents moved to his great-uncle’s farm, which McQueen would later describe as “good memories.” It was his greatuncle who gave him a tricycle on his fourth birthday, a gift that McQueen remembered as sparking his interest in racing. At the age of eight, he moved back in with his mother in Indianapolis. As a going-away present, his greatuncle gave him a golden pocket watch, with an inscription reading, “To Steve – who has been a son to me.” The next years were difficult for the young McQueen. His new stepfather beat him to such an extent that he left home at the age of nine to live on the streets, joining a street gang and committing petty crimes. His mother consequently sent him back to his greatuncle. Aged 12, McQueen’s mother took him back home. Following a second divorce, she had moved to Los Angeles and was living with her third husband but unfortunately, the situation proved no better for McQueen. McQueen recalled his stepfather as a “prime son of a bitch”, who was not averse to using physical violence against both a rebellious McQueen and his mother. He returned to live with his great-uncle for a third and final time, but at age 14, he left the farm without saying “goodbye” and, after a brief spell in the circus, returned to Los Angeles, his mother and life as a gang member. After being caught by the police for committing petty crimes, his stepfather beat him severely and threw him down a flight of stairs. McQueen reacted by threatening to kill him, should he lay his hands on him again. His mother signed a court order stating that he was incorrigible, and McQueen was sent to the California Junior Boys Republic. It was here he matured, even becoming a role model
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and getting elected to the Boy’s council. Despite leaving at age 16, McQueen would later return on a regular basis to talk to the boys, a practice he continued even after becoming famous. McQueen’s next steps brought him briefly to the Dominican Republic, before he made his way to Texas, where he worked as a roughneck, a carnival barker and a lumberjack. In 1947 he joined the United States Marine Corps, reverting to his prior rebelliousness and spent 41 days in the brig after failing to return after a weekend pass expired. Once again, McQueen managed to refocus his energy on productive pursuits, embracing the Marines’ discipline and ultimately became an honour guard, responsible for guarding the presidential yacht. He was honourably discharged in 1950 and moved to New York in 1952, where he began to study acting. It was around the same time that Steve McQueen began to earn money by competing in weekend motorcycle races at Long Island City Raceway. He soon became an excellent racer, and his winnings provided an additional source of income. After smaller roles in movies and a brief Broadway debut, he returned to California at the age of 25, seeking acting jobs in Hollywood. Some producers took note of him, casting him in several B-movie roles, before he landed a role starring alongside Paul Newman in ‘Somebody Up There Likes Me’. ‘Never Love a Stranger’ and ‘The Blob’ followed, but his breakthrough role was on TV, playing bounty hunter Josh Randall in the western series, ‘Trackdown.’ McQueen had become a household name and even Frank Sinatra took notice, when he replaced Sammy Davis Jr. to play opposite him in ‘Never So Few. In 1960, ‘The Magnificent Seven’ with Yul Brynner, Charles Bronson and James Coburn, became Steve McQueen’s first major hit. 1963’s ‘The Great Escape’ established McQueen’s box-office clout and secured his status as a superstar, with his only Academy Award nomination in 1966 for ‘The Sand Pebbles.’ In 1968, the film for which he became best known, ‘Bullitt’ also earned him iconic status in the racing world, thanks to the unprecedented car chase through
“When a horse learns to buy martinis, I’ll learn to like horses.” San Francisco. Although he did some of the driving for close-ups, most of the car chase was done by stunt-drivers. In the 1970s, McQueen starred in the poorly received ‘LeMans’, before his fortunes changed and he met his future wife Ali McGraw on the set of ‘Getaway’. A physically demanding role as a Devil’s Island prisoner in 1973’s ‘Papillon’, featuring Dustin Hoffman as his character’s tragic sidekick, saw McQueen crowned as the world’s highest-paid actor. But McQueen had other plans, and by 1974 he all but disappeared from the public eye to focus on motorcycle racing. McQueen only returned to the big screen in 1978, with ‘An Enemy of the People’, which preceded two more films, that weren’t released until 1980, the year he died. In 1978, a persistent cough forced him to give up cigarettes. A biopsy revealed pleural mesothelioma, a cancer associated with asbestos exposure for which there is no known cure. McQueen believed the asbestos used in sound stage insulation, as well as in race drivers’ protective suits and helmets could have been to blame, however, a massive exposure to asbestos whilst removing lagging insulation from pipes aboard a troop ship during his time as a marine was a more likely cause. On November 7, 1980, McQueen passed away, at age 50, of heart failure, 12 hours after surgery to remove metastatic tumors in his neck and abdomen.
For the hour-long documentary “Steve McQueen: Man On The Edge“ (narrated by James Coburn) , please scan the QR-code.
WINECAB AI SYSTEM WineCab, the first ever robotically powered system for wine collections, reinvents the need for a traditional cellar Custom created for amateur wine collectors to Michelin-starred restaurateurs, it features a wine management system, an AI “virtual” sommelier, temperature control, security settings, and most notably—a 7 axis
LOUIS VUITTON DUBBELLS If you want to exercise in style or elevate your home gym with exclusive Louis Vuitton details, these dumbbells are for you. Each weight, made from lustrous metal, is finished with an eyecatching Monogram Eclipse canvas handle and House signature engravings. Add the matching luxury jump rope and your cardio gets some much needed glamour. C$3,350 (dumbbells); C$815 (rope). www.louisvuitton.com
industrial high speed robotic arm.WineCab models allow to robotically scan and display up to 600 bottles. Available in many custom finishing options. Prices start at USD179,000 www.winecab.com
ULYSSE NARDIN UFO
NOVUS E-MOTORBIKE
It isn’t a real UFO but it will take you on a journey through time. To celebrate its 175th anniversary, Ulysse Nardin takes clockmaking into the realms of imagination by reinventing the chronometer, inspired by innovation and exploration, the seas and the skies. The UFO contains all of Ulysse Nardin’s horological history in one single object, from the marine chronometers of the 19th and 20th centuries to the Freak in 2001, to the Blast in 2020. The 7.2kg and 675 components masterpiece has triple-dialled time zones and 356 days of power reserve. 250mm x 150mm. Limited to 75 pieces. US$39,000. www.ulysse-nardin.com
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NOVUS is a handcrafted-limited series full carbon fiber motorbike made in Germany. The entire frame weighs just 7kg (15.4 lb) and with a direct drive rear hub motor with a peak output of 18 kW (24 hp) it reaches a top speed of 120 km/h (74.5 mph). The 4.3 kWh battery charges from 0-80% in just 30 minutes, and the NOVUS is rated for a maximum range of 100 km (62 miles) at city speeds. USD48,000. www.novusbike.com
THE EMERALD ISLE COLLECTION ‘The Emerald Isle Collection’ made in partnership with The Craft Irish Whiskey Co. is a 7-piece custom-made whiskey set which celebrates the ‘Seven Wonders of Ireland’. Presented in a dark walnut experience box, each set features a unique Fabergé Celtic Egg objet and bespoke Altruist watch, along with two bottles of extremely rare, 30-year-old, triple distilled Irish whiskey. All proceeds from the sale will be split equally between the Correa Family Foundation and a charity of the collector’s choice. USD2m. www.faberge.com
STEFANO RICCI HUMIDORS STEFANO RICCI collaborated with Arturo Fuente, among the most revered makers of premium cigars in the world, to create exceptional humidors delicately crafted out of the finest woods. The Nine Cigar Travel Humidor has an elegant briar-root wood exterior and nine concave cigar cradles carved into the wooden base, for seven cigars with a maximum length of 199mm, and two cigars with a maximum length of 118mm. C$7,00 0. The Desk Humidor has six internal extractable trays which may hold up to a total of 62 cigars and comes equipped with 100 mahogany spills for soft flame lighting, the STEFANO RICCI jet flame Cigar Lighter and Cigar Cutter Set as well as a decorated porcelain cigar ashtray and accompanying cigar holder. C$25,000. STEFANO RICCI carries a broad range of cigar accessories. Stefano Ricci Vancouver | www.stefanoricci.com
JAGUAR E-TYPE 60 COLLECTION To commemorate the 60th Anniversary of the iconic Jaguar E-TYPE, a strictly limited six matched pair of cars are being built for sale by a hand-picked team at Jaguar Classic. When a hand-built prototype 77RW was driven from Coventry to Geneva to be launched alongside the 9600HP at the Geneva International Motor Show in 1961, the E-Type instantly created automotive history. Now, six lucky automobile enthusiasts will have the of opportunities to become part of this illustrious history. Jaguar has not disclosed a price tag for these unique pairings. Should you be too late (or if the price is a bit too rich), the anniversary celebrations continue with sixty limitededition commemorative F‑TYPE sports cars. www.jaguar.ca ICONIC CONCIERGE
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WELCOM AFTER AN ABSENCE OF 61 YEARS, ASTON MARTIN RETURNS TO FORMULA ONE
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M E BACK! ICONIC CONCIERGE
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IT WAS ONE of the most anticipated Formula One car launches of recent years. On March 3rd history was written when Aston Martin unveiled its first Grand Prix car since the DBR5, which was raced by Roy Salvadori and Maurice Trintignant in the 1960 British Grand Prix. The AMR21 was revealed in a striking green livery in recognition of the brand’s traditional racing colours, carrying prominent branding from title partner, Cognizant, and several other global brands. “I have dreamed about this day for a very long time,” Aston Martin Lagonda’s Executive Chairman, Canadian businessman Lawrence Stroll, said. “I have always been a car guy, since I was a child. I have always loved racing, too. My first dream was to own a Formula One team. My second dream was to acquire a significant shareholding in Aston Martin Lagonda. Today is about the merging of those
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two dreams, and it shows that dreams really can come true.” The new driver pairing of Sebastian Vettel, four-time World Champion and statistically one of the greatest drivers in Formula One history, and Canadian Lance Stroll was also prominent in the presentation. “Even though I have raced for four Formula One teams and for many years, starting a new season with a new team still gives me a sense of excitement,” Sebastian Vettel told the audience. “I love the history of motor racing and Aston Martin is one of the great names of the past, so it is fun to be part of their return to Formula One after an absence of 61 years.” The AMR21 uses the Mercedes-AMG F1 M12 E Performance, a 1.6L V6 turbo-hybrid power unit.
Aston Martin Vantage F1 Edition. Celebrating the brand’s return to racing’s premiere competition, this street-legal version of Formula 1’s official safety car during the 2021 season is available as either a coupé or roadster.
Fans can join the team through an exclusive free-to-join Aston Martin Cognizant Formula One Team membership programme, #IAMF1. It offers exclusive news and content, first dibs on new apparel drops and grants access to exclusive experiences.
THE 2021 VANTAGE ROADSTER. AN UNMISTAKABLE PRESENCE. Like the archetypal hunter, everything has been finely tuned for a purpose. Vantage Roadster mirrors the Coupe’s exceptional tactility, pace and cornering performance, while maintaining its own unique persona. Starting from $175,000 MSRP #101-1770 Burrard Street Vancouver, BC, Canada | 604.734.2905 | astonmartinvancouver.ca *Starting MSRP represents the rate for basic 2021 Aston Martin Vantage Roadster, and excludes added features and specifications. Certain conditions may apply. Vehicle license, insurance, registration, and taxes are extra.
HIGH-VOLTAGE by Dr. Oliver Finlay
AN INTERVIEW WITH E-VISIONARY ALEJANDRO AGAG IC: In fifteen words or less, who are you and what do you do? AA: Alejandro Agag, sports entrepreneur with environmental purpose, founder of Formula E, Extreme E and E1. IC: For the uninitiated, please can you give a brief overview of Formula E, Extreme E and E1.
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AA: Formula E, Extreme E and E1 are all part of one overarching idea, which is to use sport to promote the possibilities of electric mobility to the general population. Sport is powerful when it is used to support a cause, a purpose, or a vision because it makes the concept exciting and engaging. It also provides a platform through which companies can inform the technological advancements needed
to bring the idea to the mainstream. Formula E and Extreme E are doing this with cars and E1 will do this in the marine world. IC: Where are you from and how did you get involved in the sports investment, technology and events industries?
AA: I come from a traditional motorsport
background. I owned a GP2 racing team; was involved in the driver market, developing drivers for Formula 1 and was involved in the TV rights aspect of the sport, working with Bernie Ecclestone to secure the TV rights for Spain. However, I was aware of the issues of climate change and the drive for environmental action, realizing that motorsport had a concerning future if it didn’t find a way to become more sustainable, environmentally aware and contribute to finding a solution. From there the idea grew from trackbased events to city streets, then to more remote areas and more recently, the water. Marine mobility faces the same challenges that street mobility faced. Whilst electric propulsion is a viable solution for small craft, it may be in future that big ships will be more suited to hydrogen power. IC: Where did the desire to connect your passion of sport with the message of addressing innovation in sustainable transport and the impact on climate change come from? Does this reflect a personal purpose? AA: If I’m being honest, the purpose was finding a way to make the motorsports business more successful. Any business only succeeds if it connects to the main concerns, worries or problems of the public. The main long-term challenge is centred around the impact of business on climate and any good business must, therefore, be aligned accordingly. That said, it is incredibly rewarding to build a good business that has a positive
impact on the environment. That’s a fantastic bonus. IC: Whilst popular media and governments are now starting to highlight the impact of human energy consumption and throw-away lifestyles on climate change and ocean pollution, when you first started trying to raise investment for Formula E, what were the challenges you faced? AA: It was certainly more difficult 7 or 8 years ago but now the issue is more in the public conscience. There has definitely been a shift to adopt more of a common effort towards combatting climate change. Activists such as Greta Thunberg and Leonardo DiCaprio, as well as some of the more controversial environmental action groups have raised the alarm and have successfully worried everyone. It’s now the role of the business community to solve the problems that have been highlighted and create a climate for interested businesses to thrive. IC: What lessons did you learn from this phase of your journey and how did you react to the challenges that presented? AA: Perseverance. There were a lot of cynical and skeptical voices in the early stages, but I was convinced that environmental action was going to be the direction businesses needed to travel over the coming decades. It has been very rewarding to stick with what I was sure was a real problem and observe the sea change in the same direction.
IC: It is apparent that Formula E attracted manufacturers on the basis of supporting their investment in innovation around electric propulsion for road cars. What impact are you hoping to see for the off road and boating sectors as a result of Extreme E and E1?
AA: I see Extreme E having a similar impact with manufacturers seeking to use the opportunity to develop technologies that can be used in their SUV models. General Motors is already on board and others are following. As for E1, it’s a little early to say which players in the sector will see the biggest benefits – maybe the boat or yacht manufacturers, maybe the brokers or maybe even marine component manufacturers. It’s a new area and we are breaking new ground. IC: There has been discussion around the fact that Audi and BMW are leaving Formula E as their investment in research into electric propulsion has reached the end of its natural lifecycle. What changes have you considered to the race series’ regulations to ensure
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WATCH THE
VIDEO
that other manufacturers recognize the ongoing value of being involved in the competition? AA: I think the first thing that we were very aware of from the outset, is that we weren’t building a race series for manufacturers. Rather build a compelling race series that teams want to invest in and if manufacturers see the value of investing in these teams, then great. However, in any race series, manufacturers come and go because they have their own decision-making processes, each informed by different variables and metrics. Some will commit during certain times in their technology development cycles, some will drop out due to financial stresses, others will step aside through a change in strategy by a parent company. However, we have to ensure the series remains compelling and so we continue to evolve for the good of every team, with the recent introduction of our cost cap being a good example of that.
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IC: Do you think electric propulsion is the best solution to the problems faced by the over-dependence on fossil fuels or are you of the opinion that further research into biofuels and hydrogen power are going to provide even better solutions?
tors. Biofuels are an interesting development, however, they still impact the CO2 cycle and demand resources to grow the plants. There is also a lot of talk about synthetic fuels but at the moment, the economics don’t work…in the future that may change.
AA: I think in the future, the combination of technologies will be important, as different vehicle characteristics lend themselves to different types of fuels. However, electric propulsion is a key component because several other options, like hydrogen, simply offer different energy storage options. Hydrogen isn’t burnt to release the energy (that’s too inefficient) but instead through a chemical reaction it produces energy to power an electric motor. So, this type of storage mechanism, I think is perfect for powering big ships, where batteries are not a viable option. For small vehicle mobility in cities, the current technology lends itself to battery-powered electric mo-
IC: After addressing the issues surrounding the pollutive effects of the default propulsion fuels for cars and boats, are we going to see an alternatively fueled alternative to the Red Bull Air Race using electric or biofuel powered aircraft (interesting aside, Vancouver’s HarbourAir fleet of seaplanes is currently being converted to electric power)? AA: I actually know some people looking into this. Personally, I think we have more than enough to manage, so we don’t have the band width. I expect this to start with some form of hybrid propulsion, with conventional fuels used for
take-off before the inflight and landing phases are powered through electric propulsion. IC: If you were to retire tomorrow, which of your projects would you be most proud of and why? AA: Formula E. It’s already an established race series that has survived several years and challenges. Extreme E and E1 are still just babies! IC: What 3 words would your closest friends use to describe you? AA: Haha, you’d have to ask them, though probably “crazy”, most likely “stubborn” but I also hope “good friend”. IC: Thank you Alejandro, we really enjoyed our experiences attending the Formula E races in Hong Kong and New York. We also love the idea of an E1 event in Vancouver – that would be incredible, given how focused we are here in protecting our oceans. AA: You’re welcome…and yes, Vancouver would be a great venue for E1. I love the city - such a really beautiful place. IC: Before you go, here are our ‘Completely Unrelated, but Nevertheless Entertaining Standard 10 Questions’… you ready? AA: Sure, let’s do them.
IC: You lose everything you own. How do you rise like a phoenix from the ashes?
AA: You just have to start again and keep pushing, there’s no other way. Failure is a part of life and a good lesson for success.
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?
AA: I would play that role myself! Documentary-style.
IC: Where is your favourite travel destination and why? AA: A small town in the south of Italy called Nerano, because I love the pasta they make there.
AA: I would go to the bank and put it in there. Probably invest 50%, put another 25% towards some good causes and spend the rest having fun!
IC: Tell me your favourite joke…
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?
IC: Have you been to Vancouver before? If so, where is your favourite Vancouver restaurant?
AA: Juan Manuel Fangio, Ayrton Senna, Niki Lauda, Michael Schumacher and Lewis Hamilton. We’d have the best conversation ever about motor racing.
IC: What was your first car, what do you drive now and what is your dream car? AA: My first car was a VW Golf that I got when I was 18. My car now is a plugin hybrid Range Rover and VW ID.3. My dream car - an electric flying car!
IC: What one piece of advice would you give to your 16-year old self? AA: I would tell myself to buy some shares in Facebook, Google and Amazon, at the IPO of each company!
IC: Who would play you in a movie about your life?
AA: It wouldn’t be suitable for your audiences!
AA: Unfortunately, I’ve never been to Vancouver but I look forward to visiting, what I’ve heard is a vibrant restaurant scene, in the future.
IC: Complete the sentence: “Vancouver would be a great place for a Formula E and an E1 race because…” AA: …it’s a fantastic city with beautiful surroundings in a great location. I’m sure the people of Vancouver would enjoy and support these types of events promoting electrification and clean mobility.
IC: Thank you Alejandro and we look forward to welcoming you to Vancouver in the future…and who knows, maybe that will be as we host an E1 race here! In the meantime, good luck for the start of the new Extreme E and continuation of the Formula E seasons.
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SAGEBRUSH GOLF CLUB
Opening Summer 2021
AN UNPARALLELED EXPERIENCE AWAITS
Tasting Room • Tours • BLOCK ONE Restaurant • Events OPEN YEAR ROUND
17101 Terrace View Road, Lake Country | 250.766.3408 | 50thparallel.com
HIT THE ROAD! NOW IS THE PERFECT TIME TO EXPLORE THE BEAUTY OF BC.
We are lucky. Very lucky. Especially during this pandemic we have once again learned to appreciate how big and beautiful our province is. Every corner of BC has some outstanding piece of nature, gorgeous panoramic view, or unique cultural experience that warrants a visit. It’s the perfect place for road trips, whether you want to hit the road for just a few days, or a few and more. Thus, with the pandemic hopefully nearing its end and the weather warming up, the coming months may well
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prove to be the perfect time to get out and explore. So pack the car and ... hit the road! For this special, we have picked three road trip routes that will showcase some of the best of what BC has to offer. Have fun, enjoy - and be safe! For additional routes, visit www.helloBC.com Please follow provincial health orders!
THE VINEYARD TOUR
THE OKANAGAN VALLEY. 3+ DAYS. 1,000 km. One of our favourite road trips takes you along the lakes and vineyards of the Okanagan Valley and through Canada’s only true desert. Needless to say, there’s lots to do in the Okanagan, from playing championship golf courses, lift-accessed hiking and mountain biking, shopping, some sumptuous fine-dining - and visits to farms and wineries. DAY 1 - Leaving from Vancouver, plan for around 4 hours to reach either Vernon, our northernmost stop, or Osoyoos at the southern end. The choice is yours and you will have to make it when you arrive in Hope to fill up your tank and grab a coffee. Taking the Coquihalla, your first destination will be the Sparkling Hill Resort in Vernon; taking Highway 3 your first night will be in Osoyoos. Let’s opt for the Coquihalla. Leaving around 8am in the morning you will cross the bridge heading into Kelowna around noon. Park your car close to the beach in the downtown core and enjoy a stroll along the waterfront and have lunch on a patio with a view. Leave Kelowna and, in Winfield, take the scenic route via Okanagan Centre Rd E, then follow Camp Rd down to the lake, passing several wineries. Carrs Landing Rd will then take you straight to Commonage Rd and your first hotel, the luxurious Sparkling Hill Resort & Spa. Make sure to make reservations at Block ONE Restaurant at 50th Parallel Winery. The view and the food are to die for. DAY 2 - leaving Sparkling Hill, take Highway 97 back to Kelowna, taking in the beautiful views of Kalamalka Lake. You will spend the day in the Kelowna area. Numerous wineries, beaches, orchards and some great shopping are waiting for you. There is a fantastic selection of accommodation to choose from. Choose between boutique waterfront hotels, including the iconic Hotel Eldorade, resorts such as the Delta Gand Okanagan and The Cove Lakeside Resort in West Kelowna, or even your very own private villa at the Mt. Boucherie winery. DAY 3 - Continue along Okanagan Lake until you reach Penticton. Enjoy a stroll along the lively waterfront, maybe have lunch at a winery along Naramata Rd. On your way to Osoyoos, take the scenic Eastside Rd along the shore of Skaha Lake and in Okanagan Falls, grab some ice cream at Tickleberry’s. Our hotel recommendation is the all-suite Spirit Ridge Resort, overlooking vineyards and the lake, featuring a private beach, pools, spa, 9-hole golf course and a restaurant. As with other areas in the Okanagan, you can easily extend your stay by several days and visit wineries or join the racing academy at Area 27 Motorsports Club.
ALONG THE WAY
VERNON. We highly recommend staying at the beautiful Sparkling Hill Resort, overlooking Okanagan Lake on one side and the Predator Ridge Golf Community on the other. Book spa treatments or relax at the pool. Wine&Dine: Just a short drive away you will find several wineries, most of them even have bistros and restaurants boasting patios with a view. 50th Parallel Estate with Block ONE restaurant and Grey Monk Estate with its The Lookout restaurant are the most popular ones.
KELOWNA. The vibrant downtown core, beaches, wineries and orchards, cafés and restaurants, Kelowna has it all. Cross the bridge to West Kelowna and visit iconic and new wineries, including Mt. Boucherie’s new “The Modest Butcher” bistro and restaurant.
PENTICTON. A drive along the Naramata Bench with its wineries, a visit to the SS Sicamous Museum on the waterfront, and Main Street with its many shops... OLIVER. The South Okanagan, with Canada’s only desert, has some spectacular backcountry as well as wineries and orchards as far as the eye can see. Visit the new Phantom Creek Estates winery and test your driving skills at Kartplex housed within the nearby Area 27 Motorsport Club. OSOYOOS. Canada’s driest climate, “Desert Wine Country” is the perfect spot for a family-friendly vacation. Visit Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre, tee-off at one of the several golf courses or blissout at a spa.
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ALONG THE WAY
THE HOT SPRINGS TOUR
CRESTON. A great area for canoeing and kayaking, or visit the Creston Valley Wildlife Management Area, There are also four wineries.
CRANBROOK. The former thriving railroad town with its many heritage homes is home to the Canadian Museum of Rail Travel. Nearby, Fort Steele Heritage Town gives you a real 1860a gold rush vibe. KIMBERLEY. A paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Endless hiking - Kimberley Nature Park is the biggest municipal park in BC is a paradise for hikers. Kimberley’s Underground Mining Railway and Sullivan Mine are another “must” for those interested in history. GOLDEN. Wildlife at its best. Waterfalls, mountain biking and whitewater rafting are some of the most popular activities and we highly recommend lunch or dining at Eagle’s Eye Restaurant, offering Canada’s highest elevation dining experience at 2,347m.
WEST KOOTENAYS & BC ROCKIES. 6+ DAYS. 850 km + 730 km. BC has a large number of hot springs, situated in some of the most scenic areas in the world and nothing comes close to the string of natural pools in the Kootenays and Rockies. Coming from Vancouver, you have to calculate 2 extra days as the round trip starts and ends in Creston, adding appr. 730 km to the actual tour. Instead of breaking up this trip into days, we decided to introduce you to the nicest hot springs and you can decide where to make your overnight stops.
ROGERS PASS. Between Golden and Revelstoke, railway enthusiasts will dive into the discovery of the completion of the railway at the Rogers Pass Discovery Centre. REVELSTOKE. The alpine city is another must for friends of the provinces history. 60 picturesque restored heritage buildings, the Revelstoke Railway Museum and the ghost town of 3 Valley Gap are worth the stop. The Mountain Resort offers some extra fun with the Pipe Mountain Coaster.
A onehour drive from CRESTON is CRANBROOK, the largest city in the Kootenay Rockies and home to a bigger airport should you decide to fly in and rent a car for this tour. Highway 95A will bring you to the next stop, KIMBERLEY. There are no hot springs in Kimberley either - but you still may want to spend a day or two here. Lessthan an hour away the first hot springs await you. LUSSIER HOT SPRINGS. It needs a bit of a walk but the 4 rock pools alongside the river are more than worth it! A 45 minute drive will then bring you to... FAIRMONT HOT SPRINGS. This resort is home to Canada’s largest natural mineral hot springs. It offers 3 hot spring outdoor pools and (for resort guests) an indoor cold and hot springs pool. There are also 3 golf-courses and, in the winter, a small downhill ski area. From here, a short 100 km driver will bring you to ... RADIUM HOT SPRINGS. In the Kootenay National Park you will find one of the largest and hottest spring mineral pools in Canada with a surprise plunge and a 25 meter cooler swimming pool. Leaving RHS, you will reach GOLDEN in less than an hour and Rogers Pass and CANYON HOT SPRINGS in another 45 minutes. A great family hot springs destination it boasts a soaking pool and a swimming pool. Driving east, REVELSTOKE is about 70 km away. Add another 80 km and you will reach the next hot springs.
NEW DENVER. Museums, artisan studiosm lots of hiking and mountain bike trails await you. KASLO. Tour a sternwheeler and enjoy some scenic views from the waterfront. Explore art galleries and heritage sites.
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HALYCON & NAKUSP HOT SPRINGS offers 4 mineral-rich pools with spectacular views of Upper Arrow Lake and the Monashee Mountains. Leaving the area, you will reach New Denver and shortly after, Kaslo in less than an hour. Lots to do and see here, but the next and last hot springs are an additional two hour drive away. AINSWORT HOT SPRINGS. Set into the mountainside overlooking Kootenay Lake and the Purcell Mountains the resort features 3 odourless pools, a 150-foot unique horseshoe-shaped cave, main lounging pool and stream-fed cold plunge.
THE COASTAL TOUR
ALONG THE WAY GIBSONS. Charming stores, art galleries, and restaurants/ cafés line up in scenic Gibsons Landing. Persephone Brewing Co., an 11-acre farm and craft brewery, is also worth a visit. ROBERTS CREEK/ SECHELT. All these smaller communities on the Coast offer stunning views and are perfect to shop for local art & handcrafted goods. POWELL RIVER. A paradise for the outdoor adventurer, the area is also known for world-class art galleries and some tremendous dining opportunities. Laughing Oyster Restaurant has a great view patio and the freshest seafood! LUND. “The end of the road” and Mile 0 of Hwy 101. Book a sightseeing booat trip and try the famous blackberry cinnamon bun at Nancy’s Bakery.
VANCOUVER ISLAND & SUNSHINE COAST. 4+ DAYS. 600 km. Seascapes, beaches, driftwood and some of the freshest seafood you can get. BC is famous for its breathtaking coast, so let’s explore it! This is one of our favourite drives and if you bring some extra time you can add Tofino to the tour. DAY 1 Take the Horseshoe Bay ferry to Langdale (40min), the starting point on the Sunshine Coast. Maybe stop for a coffee in Gibsons or Sechelt and visit one of the many eclectic studios and galleries. Overlooking Garden Bay, the Sunshine Coast Resort & Marina in Madeira Park is a nice place to stay and enjoy the amazing sunsets. DAY 2 The second day will bring you to Powell River but you have to take another ferry in Earls Cove. If you have some extra time, you can then drive north to explore Lund at the end of Highway 101 (we recommend staying at The Lund Resort, at Klah ah men) and even book a scenic cruise into Desolation Sound. From Powell River, the ferry will take you to Comox on Vancouver Island. The Kingfisher Oceanside Resort and Spa offers breathtaking views, a spa and an award-winning restaurant. DAY 3 Either opt for an extra day or two and head over to the west coast of Vancouver Island, or take the highway south towards Nanaimo and Victoria. The whole drive to Victoria is only 225 km so you have lots of time to make stops along the way. A ‘must’ is the summit of the Malahat Drive for some panoramic ocean views over Saanich Inlet and the Saanich Peninsula to distant Mount Baker. DAY 4 We recommend at extra night in Victoria. Butchart Gardens, the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea, the Royal BC Museum and a stroll on the seawall in the Inner Harbour or along the stretch between Clover Point and Ogden Point. In the evening, enjoy the sunset from the pool or hot tub at the Oakbay Beach Resort.
COMOX VALLEY. Visit Courtenay’s boutique-lined 5th Street and sample Artisan Sweets at Hot Chocolates! Book the Hydropath at Kingfisher Spa, which is also our recommendation for the best hotel/ resort. Visit the Comox Air Force Museum. NANAIMO. 4 craft breweries. Walk the Harbour Front Walkway to Maffeo Sutton Park and have lunch at one of the pubs and restaurants along the way. DUNCAN. Historic Downtown is quite small and can be easily explored on foot. Visit the Totems collection, the great Raptors wildlife attraction, a local winery or BC’s first cidery. VICTORIA. Lots to see and do in and around Victoria. Stay at one of the many Inner Harbour hotels, or opt for a boutique resort such as the Oak Bay Beach Hotel. Tour Butchart Gardens, discover Craigdarroch Castle, visit Canada’s oldest Chinatown and the colourful row of houseboats lining Fisherman’s Wharf. If you have the time, book a whale and wildlife cruise. And for some great dining experience, try Sooke Harbour House and for a quick but delicious bite, Red Fish Blue Fish
DAY 5 Back To Vancouver via the Swartz Bay-Tsawwassen ferry.
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ENTER TO WIN A luxury trip for two including a 2-night stay at our winery. Enjoy a VIP tasting and dinner at the The Modest Butcher. ICONIC CONCIERGE
MT. BOUCHERIE ESTATE WINERY Mt. Boucherie Estate Winery takes its name from the extinct volcano that is this geologic landmark of West Kelowna. Today they are proud to farm estate vineyards that are some of the oldest in British Columbia, and from its most heralded sub-regions. The beautiful tasting room offers a range of wine and food experiences to help you best enjoy what this exceptional terroir has to offer.
LUXURY GUEST ACCOMMODATION With three new modern homes on-site, Mt. Boucherie has the perfect space for your next small corporate getaway or family vacation. Each home is unique with quality amenities not found anywhere else in the valley. These include chef’s kitchens, golf simulator, private patios, karaoke room, and more! Mt. Boucherie also offers a concierge service to help you book your golf, skiing, boating, or other adventures at preferred partner rates.
THE MODEST BUTCHER KITCHEN + MARKET An extraordinary addition to the culinary scene of the Okanagan is the newly opened Modest Butcher Kitchen. Specializing in fine ingredients locally sourced from near and far, Chef Dan Carkner puts premium chops at the fore & features vegan and vegetarian dishes for those a little less meat inclined. Modest Butcher Market features dry-aged cuts, gourmet cheeses, and a pantry of your favourite preserves to capture local products at it’s peak. Modestly celebrating wine, food and laughter with an unpretentious vibe; the motto says it all - “Eating and drinking with reckless abandon since 2020.”
MTBOUCHERIE.COM
@mtboucheriewine
#experienceithere
BOWLUS TERRAFIRMA This luxurious 26’ camper trailer is loaded with hi-tech features and plush amenities. It even comes with HEPA Filter with UVC and a two-stage Fresh Water Filtration System. An 8-kWh lithium-iron battery pack provides up to two weeks of off-grid living, and charges from zero to full in up to four hours on the right charger. The main cabin accommodates dining for four, a built-in bathroom pod and a spacious, Zen-like bedroom converts from a two twin sleeping arrangement to a king. Our furrier friends get pampered, too; water and food bowls seamlessly slide out from a drawer, and they have their own comfortable bed. At around 3,200 lbs, the Bowlus is light enough to be towed by almost any crossover, SUV, or EV. www.bowlus.com
AIRSTREAM BASECAMP 20 Builder of the iconic “silver bullet” fleet of travel trailers, Airstream, now offers the 2021 Basecamp 20, built especially for “adventurers who are seeking a larger, more rugged travel trailer”. It offers a larger convertible rear bed, with flexible living, sleeping, and eating positions, and a convertible front dinette that seats up to four adults and sleeps two children or one adult. With a base weight of 3,400 lbs and maximum trailer capacity (GVWR) of 4,300 lbs, the Basecamp 20 can be towed by a variety of small www.airstream.com and mid-sized SUVs and trucks.
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2020 RANGE ROVER SPORT PHEV
CHARGING FORWARD
STARTING FROM $95,500* Introducing the 2020 Range Rover Sport Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV). Incorporating both an electric powertrain and a gas engine, it can operate as a zero-emission vehicle with a touch of a button. Equipped with a 12.4kWh battery, the Range Rover Sport PHEV can achieve an all-electric range of 51 km, allowing you access to the HOV lane+ and saving time on your daily commute. Test drive one today at your local Land Rover Authorized Retailer.
LAND ROVER RICHMOND 5680 PARKWOOD WAY 604-273-6068 landroverofrichmond.com
LAND ROVER LANGLEY 5978 COLLECTION DR 604-210-3361 landroverlangley.ca
LAND ROVER VANCOUVER 1730 BURRARD ST 604-738-5577 landrovervancouver.ca
Vehicle shown: 2020 Range Rover Sport PHEV HSE. +Owners or lessors of low emission vehicles can apply for a permit to drive in high occupancy vehicle lanes (HOV) on B.C. highways regardless of the number of passengers in the car. *Purchase a new (in-stock) 2020 Range Rover Sport PHEV HSE starting from $95,500. Price excludes Freight ($1,700), PDI ($495), Admin ($395), AC Charge ($100), Tire Levy (up to $36); other charges may apply depending on province. Licence, insurance and all applicable taxes are extra. Vehicle may not be exactly as shown. Retailers may sell or lease for less. Please visit your local Land Rover Authorized Retailer for details. © 2020 Jaguar Land Rover Canada ULC
GONE IN
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SECONDS
WATCHES AND CARS have shared a long and cherished history, ever since Malcolm Campbell set a land speed record of over 300 mph (approximately 485 km/h) in 1935 wearing a Rolex Oyster.
Another brand closely associated with motor racing throughout the 20th century, was Omega. The iconic Omega Speedmaster “Moonwatch” was originally designed as a sports and racing chronograph.
Racing obviously depends on highly accurate timekeeping. Whilst Rolex was one of the first companies to capitalize on the popularity of racing, it was Heuer, with their dashboard timers, that was most closely associated with the sport throughout the second half of the 20th century. In fact, even their famous Autavia wristwatch evolved from a dashboard timer.
Even today, in our digital world, watchmakers remain as important a part of motorsports as ever. Their status as official timekeepers in the world’s most acclaimed races are further supported by relationships with auto firms, race drivers and racing teams. It comes as no surprise, that racing watches are one of the most popular types of timepiece. Usually featuring a chronograph and a tachymeter for timing, and bearing the name of a racetrack, iconic driver or car brand, such watches allow car enthusiasts to bring a little of their passion for motorsports into their everyday style.
Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, many Formula One teams relied on manually-wound Heuer chronographs. In 1969, the joint venture of Heuer, Breitling, Buren and Dubois-Depraz, introduced the automatic chronograph movement known as Caliber 11. Heuer once again wrote history in 1971, this time with legendary actor and racecar enthusiast, Steve McQueen, who sported an Heuer Monaco 1133 in Le Mans.
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We have compiled a selection of some of the most striking timepieces that are closely influenced or associated with motoring and motorports.
TISSOT
TAG HEUER
The Tissot Heritage 1973 is a seventies style chronograph celebrating the brand’s historic ties to motor-racing. It symbolizes the partnership between Tissot and the Kessel Classics racing team. Available in a limited edition of 1973 pieces. The overstitched calfskin strap is a reproduction of the one Tissot had invented and patented in the 1960s, characterized by its large perforations. It alludes to pilots’ steering wheels of the time. ETA Valjoux 7753 self-winding movement. CAD2,795.
The automatic Monaco Calibre 11 is THE original square and waterproof chronograph in the world. Revolutionary and the iconic timepiece of the “King of Cool” Steve McQueen, this calibre 11 edition still features the famous crown on the left, which demonstrated that manual winding was no longer necessary. All groundbreaking design elements remain in place: blue dial with horizontal steel indexes, silver sub-dials for chronograph minutes and chronograph hours, date at 6 o’clock, and a red chronograph hand. CAD7,900.
HERITAGE 1973
MONACO
BREITLING
PREMIER B01 BENTLEY MULLINER
Celebrating Bentley’s Continental GT Convertible Mulliner Edition, the Premier Bentley Mulliner chronograph comes in a limited edition of 1,000 pieces. It is presented on a blue alligator leather strap, and features blue & red accents, echoeing the interior of the car. The vertically brushed silver dial recalls the car’s Breitling dashboard clock. On the left side of the case, is a plate with an engraved “Bentley” inscription, whose design is based on the engine spin dashboard found in historic Bentleys. CAD10,150.
ROGER DUBUIS
EXCALIBUR HURACÀN PERFORMANTE
Roger Dubuis’s on-going collaboration with the Italian supercar company, Lamborghini results in watches with the same attention to detail as the iconic model from which it takes its inspiration. The Excalibur Huracán Performante titanium case measures 45mm in diameter. Visible on the dial side at 12, is a strut-bar designed to hold the balance bridge. The design cue is the strut-bar found on the V10 engine of the Lamborghini. USD52,500.
CHOPARD
MILLE MIGLIA
As the official timekeeper of the world’s most famous regularity race for classic cars, the Mille Miglia Chronograph is inspired by the beauty and elegance of the vintage automobile. The emblematic rubber strap evokes 1960s Dunlop tire treads. The selfwinding movement has a 42-hour power reserve and a stop-second function. CAD6,960.
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HUBLOT FERRARI
THE END OF AN ERA - YOU BETTER HURRY! After 9 years, the collaboration between Hublot and Ferrari has concluded. In all, it encompassed 70-some timepieces, including two generations of Big Bang Ferrari. We checked - at the time we went to press with this edition, the Vancouver Boutique still had a few Ferrari timepieces. They are the very last ones, so here’s your chance to have a very rare watch in your collection! HUBLOT VANCOUVER
ROLEX
DAYTONA
A tachymetric scale, three counters and pushers, the Cosmograph Daytona was designed to be, and became the ultimate timing medium for endurance racing drivers. Good luck getting a new stainless steel version, collectors have been waiting for years, calling it the ‘Holy Grail’. In 2017, Paul Newman’s vintage Rolex Daytona 6239 sold for USD17.1 million after only 12 minutes of bidding. As an alternative, maybe consider the Rolex sister company ‘Tudor’ and their chronographs. LUGARO Jewellers.
JACOB & CO
TWIN TURBO FURIOUS BUGATTI
In 2019, Bugatti and Jacob & Co. signed a multi-year partnership to create unique, never-before-seen timepieces. With its painstakingly hand-decorated and handassembled 832 components, the Twin Turbo Furious is a true Grand Complication Masterpiece with twin triple-axis tourbillons. USD580,000.
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TAG HEUER
CARRERA PORSCHE
This watch represents the combination of two of motor racing’s favourite and most dynamic luxury brands. The Heuer 02 Manufacture movement, with its 80 hr power reserve, shows the famous steering wheel Porsche-inspired oscillating mass. 44mm. CAD7,250.
TISSOT
PRS 516 CHRONOGRAPH
Inspired by Tissot’s long-term involvement in motorsports. Quartz ETA movement. CAD825.
OMEGA
SPEEDMASTER RACING MASTER
The 44.25 mm Speedmaster uses the CoAxial Master Chronometer 9900 movement with a 60 hr power reserve. CAD11,500.
LE RHÖNE RÖAD RACER
Röad Racer is the very first collection of Swiss brand Le Rhöne, founded in 2013. The powerful watches, which offer high-end chronographs, have considered every detail. The dial refers subtly to the dashboard counters of vintage American cars. Automatic movement. USD15,000.
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GRAHAM
SILVERSTONE RS
The Silverstone RS series has been inspired by the origins of racing. The sport-style watch has a dial, which emulates the look of a tachymeter scale, while the wrist wrap mirrors the tire tread patterns of race cars. Perpetual calendar, flyback chronograph, and precise GMT functions. Starting at USD5,750.
B.R.M.
MARTINI RACING
Born into a clock-making family and with a passion for automobile competition, Bernard Richards founded B.R.M. in 2002. Today, the brand offers some exceptional timepieces reminiscent of car racing. Starting at USD5,350.
REBELLION
PREDATOR 2.0 SPORT
A racing team that owns a watch company (or vice-versa), Rebellion offers unique timepieces for those who share a passion of both. The Predator 2.0 is a regulator watch; the ‘dashboard’ reveals two counters to mark the hours and minutes. A large central hand is dedicated to the seconds and at 6 o’clock, a gauge indicates the power reserve of this automatic movement (46-hour power reserve). Appr. USD25,000.
RICHARD MILLE RM 65-01
The “racing machine on your wrist” has recently announced a new partnership with Ferrari, joining McLaren as the second racing team in their portfolio. The RM 65-01 (pictured) is an automatic, split-seconds chronograph and the most complex timepiece ever to leave the Richard Mille workshops. CALIBRE RMAC4 with a 60-hour power reserve. USD310,000.
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WATCHES AND WONDERS
THE SHOW MUST GO ON! Watches And Wonders Geneva, formerly known as Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie (SIHH) and organized by the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie (FHH), is a trade show of the international watch and jewelry industry. Due to the ongoing pandemic, more than two years have passed since consumers, retailers and members of the media last gathered in Switzerland. This year, Watches and Wonders is split into two events: the first was entirely digital, and was held from April 7 to 13. The focus then switches to Shanghai, where 19 brands will convene at the West Bund Art Center for a five-day invitation-only live event. Last year and with little to no time to respond to the fair’s cancellation, Watches And Wonders quickly created a digital platform to which exhibiting brands could upload images and videos of their new watches for the world to see. This year, unfortunately still dominated by the virus, the organizers had
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more time to plan and so the Geneva programme covered over 40 online keynotes, 400 local digital presentations, 500 press conferences, six panels, individual appointments and a daily “Morning Show”, all streamed live through the official website. We even joined a ‘virtual party’and, yes, we had to provide for our own cocktails. 38 prestigious brands participated in the Geneva event, ranging from A(. Lange & Söhne) to Z(enith), but one of the biggest news was that a group of exiles from the Baselworld (now ‘Hour Universe’), including Chanel, Chopard, Hublot, Patek Philippe, Rolex and Tudor, returned to Geneva. Looking ahead, Geneva will hopefully be the physical epicenter of the Superbowl of watch events in 2022. Our expectations are high and we can’t wait to join fellow watch enthusiasts from around the world.
www.WatchesAndWonders.com
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2021 McLaren GT 4.0-L twin-turbo DOHC 32-valve V-8 620PS | torque: 465 lb-ft 7-speed dual-clutch automatic 0 – 100 km/h: 3.2 seconds | top speed: 326 km/h Price: From C$250,000.00
1711 W 2nd Ave | Vancouver, BC (604) 731-9332 2021 McLaren 720S Spider 4.0-L twin-turbo DOHC 32-valve V-8 720PS | torque: 568 lb-ft 7-speed dual-clutch automatic 0 – 100 km/h: 2.9 seconds | top speed: 341 km/h Price: From $399.000,00
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DON’T BE
FOOLED! WHY THE MCLAREN GT IS NOT A GRAND TOURER THE CHALLENGE WAS SIMPLE: WHICH CAR WOULD YOU PICK AS THE PERFECT DAILY DRIVER SUPERCAR? The question came up on a call with Robbie, who had just added another supercar to his collection. “It’s nice to have the money and the big garage to have a crazy car collection, but what if you can only have one toy? Something that is good in city traffic, awesome on the racetrack, and can be used for a road-trip without the need for a chiropractor each night?” When it comes to street-legal cars with racecar-like performance and handling on a track, it is hard to beat McLaren. Robbie has pretty much owned every model produced by the British carmaker, including the Senna hypercar, so it came as no surprise that he would pick one. What surprised me was the model he considers a daily driver, the 720S Spider. “Think about it - it has a V8 turbo, twinclutch gearbox, and a two-seat carbonfibre tub. And - butterfly doors! Now that’s a real supercar.” Robbie is right, those are checkmarks a true supercar must tick. Yet, the McLaren GT, my own choice for this challenge, checks all of the boxes! Now, you may say, “But wait, the GT is a Grand Tourer?”. Well, yes, that’s true, it definitely doesn’t stand for “Giant Trunk” but if you think about it, the McLaren GT really isn’t one. A Grand Tourer usually is
a front-engine, luxurious 2+2 seater with a sporty touch. The McLaren GT, however, is a mid-engine 2-seater with some extra storage behind the seats, a bit more comfort and performance that grants it membership of the supercar world. Which is exactly why I have picked it and took it out for some test-driving before meeting up with Robbie. I wanted to find out how much McLaren sacrificed its supercar edge in pursuit of the practical. It turns out you can have it both! At first glance, the GT will turn just as many heads as any other McLaren. An aggressive front, a curvy aerodynamic side profile with some huge side intakes, massive 20-inch wheels, and a beautifully sculpted rear end. A closer look reveals that the big rear window doesn’t give a glimpse of the powertrain and is, in fact a power tailgate that opens at the push of a button on the remote, giving access to a rear luggage deck. Combined with the deep “frunk”, the GT has a total of 20.1 cubic feet of combined luggage space. The butterfly doors open to a leather-lined cabin which, thanks to 4.3 inches of ground clearance is easier to enter than the 720S. The leather is ultra-soft, the seats have some thicker padding and everything that looks like metal is metal. The instruments look and feel familiar to other McLarens, with big buttons for reverse, neutral and drive, toggles for the normal, sport and track settings of the powertrain and chassis. And yes, the GT has launch control.
My GT came with the ultra-cool electrochromic roof which brightens and darkens as you slide your finger over a little touch-screen, but lacks cooled or massaging seats and any driverassistance features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, or blind-spot monitoring. Another clue that this isn’t a Grand Tourer! So far, so good. But how does the GT perform? It’s fantastic! It is perfectly balanced, turns and rides like a true mid-engined supercar, is agile, turns flat through corners and isn’t inclined to understeer. There aren’t too many cars that can keep up with it should you take it to the Area 27 racetrack. Yet the ride is superb, it doesn’t vibrate or shudder and cushions the road. Therefore, combined with the extra sound insulation, the bigger luggage space and the 72-liter fuel tank the GT is also great for smaller road-trips and even the city. WATCH THE
VIDEO
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I rest my case. The McLaren GT is the
perfect daily driver supercar and so I took it to the meeting point. Now over to Robbie and his 720S Spider... “Ok, Olaf got me this time. I still say the 720S is the better supercar, reckoned as one of the all-time greats, especially in the Spider version (what can I say, I like ‘em topless!), but you can’t argue almost $150,000 in price difference. That buys a pretty nice watch. And yes, anything bigger than an overnight bag will have to stay home but that’s why I have the RollsRoyce and the Defender. But the 720S is up almost a clean 100 hp and 100 lbft compared to the McLaren GT, and the acceleration is paint-stripping, just 0.1 seconds behind my McLaren Senna and even up at Area 27 it is pretty darn close to it. No way the GT can keep up with it!” At this point we switched cars and drove a mix of city and highway, meeting up later that day in Horseshoe Bay for the final conclusion. So which one wins the title of the daily driver supercar? Well, we both agreed it is the GT thanks to the
added comfort and the extra luggage space, making it one of the most flexible and accommodating mid-engined twoseaters ever made. I would say this is the car that 80% of the McLaren drivers actually want. Which is also why I get Robbie’s point, and most likely that of the remaining 20%. The 720S is a fantastic street-legal racecar with ultra-quick steering and preternatural speed. The V8 appears to sit right behind you, unshielded, constantly screaming at you, and a stiff chassis setup that makes you feel like driving on a track even when you’re just heading out for dinner. If you spend a lot of time at a racetrack, have a few other cars in the garage that are more comfortable and have more cabin and luggage space, then yes, the 720S is the supercar for you. At the end of the day, it’s a matter of preference, and you’re going to have a hell of a good time when test driving either of these two. You just have to find the one that is for you.
LAND ROVER DEFENDER MOTORTREND’S 2021 SUV OF THE YEAR®
THE 2021 MOTORTREND SUV of the YEAR® LAND ROVER DEFENDER From its legendary off road capability, to its on road comfort, find out why the New Defender was named MotorTrend’s SUV of the Year. Test drive the new Land Rover Defender at your local Land Rover Authorized Retailer. STARTING FROM $65,300* landrover.ca
@landrovercanada
Vehicle shown: 2020 Land Rover Defender 110 with optional equipment. *Purchase a new (in-stock) 2020 Land Rover Defender starting from $65,300. Price excludes Freight ($1,800), PDI ($495), Admin ($395), AC Charge ($100), Tire Levy (up to $36); other charges may apply depending on province. Licence, insurance and all applicable taxes are extra. Vehicle may not be exactly as shown. Retailers may sell or lease for less. Please visit your local Land Rover Authorized Retailer for details. © 2020 Jaguar Land Rover Canada ULC
2021 Bentley Continental GT V8 Starting at $254,594.00 2021 Bentley Continental GT W12 Starting at $275,894.00 2022 Bentley Continental GT Speed TBA
THE QUINTESSENTIAL GRAND TOURER
2021 BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GT
A FEW PAGES BACK we defined the common format for a GT, a Grand Tourer. It is a powerful front-engine two-door coupé, with a 2+2 seat arrangement. It is made with long-distance driving in mind, blends great performance, luxurious comfort, and style. And although many automakers slap GT badges on their cars as a bit of a marketing exercise, few check off the generally accepted grand touring boxes. And then there is the Bentley Continental GT.
BENTLEY VANCOUVER 1770 Burrard St Vancouver, BC (833) 969-1002 www.bentleyvancouver.ca
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The Bentley Continental GT meets all of the afore mentioned criteria: front-engine, 2+2 seating, a big trunk, a powerful engine and one of the most luxurious and comfortable interiors available. This coupé is the quintessential grand tourer and is available with either a 4.0-litre 542hp V8 engine, a massive 6.0-litre W12 with 626hp or, if you want even more power, the brand-new Continental GT Speed gives a 650hp option. We opted for the W12 for our test-drive. It has been 18 years since Bentley Motors launched the Continental GT at the 2003 Geneva Motor Show. It was the start of a new era, setting a tone for the whole brand. Without the GT, Bentley would most likely not even be around. The second generation arrived in 2011 and in 2018, the completely redesigned third-generation went into production, introducing the new 6.0-litre W12 TSI engine.
Opening the door, the GT greets you with the big “B” logo, projected on the ground from the puddle light, and if this weren’t enough to remind you of the car you are about to drive, the sill displays an illuminated “Bentley”, too. Welcome to one of the most luxurious interiors you will ever find, it really is in a league of its own. The moment you slip into the driver’s seat, your senses will be inspired. From the touch of the diamond knurling on the vents and controls, to the smell of some of the finest leathers known to man, all will stimulate an intense feeling of satisfaction. And in comparison to other GTs in this class, the spacious cockpit enables you to share your surroundings with good company, and given the 358-litre trunk you can even pack for a prolonged adventure.
The W12 is a prestigious automobile, but truth be told we have driven the V8 with its 4.0L twin-turbocharged 542hp/568 lb.ft of torque engine several times, and it is only .3 of a second slower than the W12 on the sprint to 100 km/h, and is shy of the topspeed by 14 km/h. However, it feels sportier, and may just be the better option if you love more noise under heavy throttle loads and enjoy taking fast corners. It will also save you some money but let’s face it, you can’t beat the prestige of “the Twelve”. Bentley describes the 2022 Bentley Continental GT Speed as the most performance-focused model in its 101-year history. 650bhp and a gearbox that shifts twice as fast in Sport mode as in the standard W12. 0-100 km/h: 3.5s.
Spring is in full swing, and whilst the GT is extremely well insulated, we decided to drop all four windows, to take in the fresh breeze – and the wonderful sound of the W12, which is especially exhilarating when put in “S”port mode. Which is just what we did. Don’t get us wrong, the GT is a heavyweight and we doubt anyone wants to race it on a track, but if they did, this car is fast. Monstrously fast. The torque pushes you back in the seat with unexpected force and, thanks to the all-wheel drive, it handles like a charm. It’s athletic and light years better than its (still very capable) predecessor.
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EMBOSSED!
BESPOKE PRINT! Most shops only install vinyl film offered by companies such as 3M or Avery. The pinnacle of vinyl film customization, however, is a bespoke print. Ceramic Kings have invested in a large-scale printer which enables them to bring your vision to life. From more typical company and product-promoting graphics and images to your vehicle covered in your favourite comic-book characters, the sky is the limit. Why not try something different and go for a forged carbon or satin marble wrap? Very classy! And thanks to their visualization software, you can see the final result on your car before the installer even touches it!
Embossing is definitely becoming a big trend. The 3D-effect is achieved by first creating the graphics that will be raised with separate decals and then overlaying it with the actual vinyl film for the car. Because of the conformability of the vinyl film, anything under its surface is going to show through. From text to graphics, from your company logo on the hood, bumper, or fender to some extra effect when creating structures as a sub-layer for a textured film such as carbon fibre or marble. The design possibilities are endless.
ARE YOU TIRED of the colour or the look of your car? How about a vinyl-wrap? Vinyl-wrapping cars and trucks is nothing new but with more durable materials, new technologies for customprinting and unique textures and effect-films, the industry is growing and even car-dealerships use professional installers to give their vehicles a distinctive look. The possibilities are endless. These days you can not only choose between hundreds of colours in a matte, satin, gloss, or metallic finish, a creative professional installer can give your vehicle the “one of a kind” custom look that you desire. Plus – whatever you choose, it will also protect your actual paint job. We have asked the team at OCHK’s Ceramic Kings for the current trends.
LET’S WRAP IT! THE NEWEST & THE COOLEST! OMBRE! Ombré is the newest trend and becoming more and more popular. Ceramic Kings was an early adopter in Canada to create this unique “fade-wrap” as it requires a professional big-scale vinyl-film printer. From a basic fade between two colours to more interesting transitions between three and more colours, this is a very unique way to make your vehicle to stand out. You can also combine it with subtle 3D-Embossing.
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ZENO by XIX3D ZENO is a revolutionary software developed by xix3D, a company that started out with three founders, a vision and a dream. The idea was to create a technology for a 3D wrap configurator that would solve the disconnect between clients and the ability to visualize the product they are willing to spend money on. “It became difficult to look past the fact that when you go to a store like Gucci, you can see the exact purse or wallet you want to buy. When you go to Rolex you can see and can even try on the watch you have been eyeing,” says Tiago Teixeira, CEO & co-founder. “Car wrap shops typically have clients with similar taste (we call them lifestyle clients). The only difference is that they are only able to visualize with a swatch book which is comparable to the same tools used to sell a painted wall by a college painter. Antiquated, outdated and prime for innovation.” It needed a hyper-realistic 3D wrap configurator. Eventually, the team had built their first minimal viable product, Zeno, and before long they had a full release that was ready for the public. It needed improvements in some areas but Zeno soon took off as the word organically spread. Adopters and innovators came on board and began quickly growing the client database.. Today, Zeno is in 30+ countries worldwide and has every type and colour of wrap materials from the biggest producers such as 3M, Avery Dennison, KPMF, and every OEM offered. The extensive library of cars models includes hundreds of models from all major brands, and every single month 20-30 new cars are added.
OUR COVER
Zeno enables the installer to not just design the exact wrap the client is looking for, but to visualize it on the specific car. Every panel can be changed, logos added, all within seconds. The final result is a hyperrealistic rendering that can be viewed from every angle.
If you thought there was something not quite right with our cover ... then you have a really good eye! Indeed, something IS wrong. It is not real! We wanted to test the quality of ZENO and so we had the team at Ceramic Kings work with the development team at xix3D to create this scene into which we inserted OCHK’s Deepak Hari and CEO Oakley Chan. We took a real Ferrari 488 and then matched the exact angle in ZENO and rendered a high-resolution image for our cover. Pretty cool, isn’t it?
HYPER-REALISTIC RENDERINGS! Indistinguishable from the real car, this rendering of a Ferrari F8 could be mistaken for the work of a talented car photographer. The added narrow Depth of Field could have been the result of the size of aperture of the lens.
CeramicKing implemented Zeno from an early stage once the team had been introduced to the powerful capabilities.
INTERIOR TRENDZ 1 BRING YOUR RIDE TO THE NEXT LEVEL CUSTOM-MADE FLOOR MATS
Make your interior stand-out with a set of bespoke floor mats. We can match it to your interior, add logos, text, even your signature! The sky is the limit!
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AMBIENT LIGHTING We can either update or add to your exisiting factory interior lighting, or create a whole new ambient lighting experience. Enhance the cabin design, illuminate the door or dash trim, cupholders or speaker surrounds. Tailored to your needs!
3 BESPOKE UPHOLSTERY Your seats are worn or look dated? Not a problem, we can help. Let us design the perfect style for your car, in leather or Alcantara, with contrast stitching, embroidery or embissing. We can even do your steering wheel!
FIBER OPTIC STAR CEILING
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We have installed numerous unique star ceilings with up to 1,500 individual stars. We can even create your favourite constellations, or logos! They twinkle, can change colour and can be dimmed or turned off for a factory look.
5 CUSTOM AUDIO SYSTEMS Your car-stereo lacks in sound quality? Not a problem! We have the solution, from simply updating the factory speakers to a complete bespoke sound-system with custom installation solutions, light effects and more!
AUDIO
SECURITY
RADAR
UPHOLSTERY
A BESPOKE TAILORED EXPERIENCE PREFERRED SHOP FOR AREA27
Inc Ridez 13395 76 Ave Surrey, BC 604.593.0363 www.incridez.ca info@incridez.com
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photos: Mohamed Saber
A VISIT TO SHEIKH HAMAD BIN HAMDAN AL NAHYAN’S OFF-ROAD MUSEUM
His Royal Highness, Sheikh Hamad Bin Hamdan Al Nahyan, better known as the Rainbow Sheikh, is unrivaled in his celebration of the automobile. At times, he was Mercedes-Benz’ biggest client and whilst many of us collect miniature scale models of our dream cars, His Highness has built oversized garages (well, actually warehouses) and opened them to the public. One of these facilities is now recognized as the Emirates National Auto Museum, and even the Sheikh struggles to keep up with the correct number of cars he owns. However, this figure is estimated at around 3,000 (and growing). We had a chance to meet His Highness just days before he opened his latest project, the Off- Road History Museum, located in the Emirate of Sharjah in the desert 45 minutes outside of Dubai. Obviously, you don’t find a single supercar here. Instead, you will go on a tour which teaches you about the history of all-wheel drive vehicles and the solid front axle, which is spread over several buildings. From historical, to military and our personal favourite, modified, this museum is a celebration of the best off-road vehicles in the world and an educational must for any gearhead. The private and not-forprofit museum houses almost 500 cars, without a single duplication, including ’Dhabiyan’, the largest road-legal SUV in the world, in addition to several other extravagant creations that His Highness has had built from scratch in one of his workshops. Each piece has been on the road and tested in the desert, ensuring they are more than just showpieces. As we ended our private tour, which lasted several hours, we were invited to see the Sheik’s personal car collection inside the palace. Our favourite? A stunning one-of-a-kind Mercedes 300 SE Coupe, a present from his brother, fully restored and updated by Brabus Classic in Germany.
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In Style!
FORMULA 1 COMPACT SUSPENSION Inspired by the world of racing and presented in a streamlined, 3D-printed layered exoskeleton within which is suspended an inner flask. There are different scents, reaching from woody with a metallic twist to “burned rubber and rain on salty asphalt.”
JAGUAR JAGUAR COLOGNE Full of spicy, woody and citrus accords, this tantalizing cologne creates a majestic aroma that’s powerful and vigorous. Show everyone you’re on the hunt with Jaguar!
The Best Fragrances For PORSCHE DESIGN 180 BLUE Modern, dynamic and invigorating, the distinct appeal of this men’s fragrance comes from its melozone-infused top note. An aromatic and masculine heart of lavender, clary sage and nutmeg comes together with a pulsating base of cashmeran and vetiver.
DEVEL SIXTEEN THE SCENT From the maker of the insane 5,000hp quadturbo V16 comes a very distinctive scent. Smoky and spicy its powerful sensuality fuses with ambery woods and cedar.
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MERCEDES-BENZ INTENSE A woody and spicy fragrance, Intense for Men is a stronger and somewhat darker version of the original perfume. Fresh amber is enriched with dry wood with the aim of sensual, olfactive signature.
Gearheads BENTLEY MAJESTIC CASHMERE From Beyond - The Collection, Bentley Majestic Cashmere conjures the exotic aromas and flavors of a journey through the Indian continent. This fragrance for men is a long-lasting scent with a heavy sillage. From the moment you splash on this decadent fragrance, you’ll find yourself exuding the mystery and allure of its musky and woody accords.
JUST DO IT. UNFORTUNATELY, THESE CONCEPTS NEVER MADE PRODUCTION Concept cars are often the result of an automaker’s desire to hint at certain styling elements and design themes, showcase innovations and gauge public interest. These mechanical and technological marvels will only ever be seen at an auto show or car event. More often than not, many of these concept cars will unfortunately return to the shadows, never to be seen again. Alternatively, a vaguely reminiscent production car will be presented, which doesn’t even contain a half of the cool features that were showcased in the radical concept. It is almost as if some manufacturers build such concepts along with our hopes only to dash them upon launch. So with that said, here are some mouth-watering concept cars we thought should’ve reached production, but never did, and likely never will. [this page, clockwise] 2017 Mercedes-Maybach Vision 6 Cabriolet - A yacht on wheels 2019 Karma SC2 - All-electric, 1,100hp, 0-60mph in 1.9s | 2015 BMW 3.0 CSL Hommage - a tribute to the 1970s 3.0 CSL [opposite page, clockwise] 2013 AMG Vision GT Concept - It started as a concept car in a video game but was later built as a real-life model | 2006 Lamborghini Miura Concept - It commemorated the 40th anniversary of the introduction of the original Miura concept | 2011 BMW 328 Hommage - It marked the 75th birthday of the iconic BMW 328 racing car | 2015 Jaguar C-X75 - Sadly, this was only for a Bond villain | 2016 Opel GT - A modern version of the late1960s “mini-Corvette” | Bugatti Atlantic Concept - They spent 18 months developing it, employing some of the technology from the Porsche Mission E/ Taycan project
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(top, clockwise) The MICROLINO. The bubble car is back! Styled after the iconic BMW Isetta. www.microlino.com | The cute ACE retro-styled coupe looks a bit like a cartoon-version of an Alfa 105. www.alphamotorinc.com | The RBW electric reincarnation of the MGB Roadster is a true British Classic. www.rbwevcars.com | Made in BC, the eRoadster brings back the legendary Porsche 356. www.eroadster.ca | NOBE 100. A three-wheeler reminiscent of the 1950s and classic speedboats. www.mynobe.com | It needs no intruction - the legendary E-Type. If you want it “E”lectrified, RBW can help! www.rbwevcars.com | The LUKA got a bit from a VW Karmann Ghia and a Volvo P1800. www.mwmotors.cz | [next page, top] A recreation of the Alfa Romeo Giulia GT with electricity, carbon fibre and lots of power. www.totemautomobili.com
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Totem GT Electric
BACKTOTHEFUTURE THE COOLEST RETRO AND RETRO-STYLE ELECTRIC RIDES
RETRO IS IN. ESPECIALLY WHEN IT COMES TO CARS.
His Royal Highness, the Rolls-Royce Phantom V. Electric. www.lunaz.design
The automotive industry has created some real design icons over the years, including the Austin Mini, the Jaguar E-Type, Alfa Romeo Giulia GTA, or the Porsche 356, which remain etched into the minds of many gearheads. Such emblematic designs never seem to age but, sadly, engineering-wise, they are all outdated. “Resto-Mods” are the solution! Recently, there has been a trend to combine the beautiful lines of vintage cars with modern powertrains and technology. As the trend has evolved, it is now all about electrifying them!
Electric cars are the present and, it seems, the future. But let’s face it, they are also pretty boring and, well, hardly the prettiest. Whatever it is about electric cars, it seems that the design and the “save the world” statement leads automakers to think their latest creations must be “soulless” and “futuristic.” We disagree! And fortunately, so do numerous small companies and startups, who have specialized in, either restoring and then converting legendary vintage cars to electric, or creating a whole new car that is retro-inspired, taking styling cues from those icons of the past. Either way, the missions are the same with the objectives of combining the passion for style and design, with classic automobiles and, most importantly, whilst saving the planet.
Totem GT interior
So, if you are interested in joining the all-electric club in the not-too-distant future, have a look at some of the electrified classics or retro-inspired electrics that we have found.
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From Vision To Reality
THE 2022 BMW iX A vision is turning into reality, as the BMW Vision iNEXT becomes the BMW iX and will go into production at BMW Plant Dingolfing from the second half of 2021 as the BMW Group’s new technology flagship. And it is just the beginning. “The BMW Group is constantly striving to re-invent itself. That is a central element of our corporate strategy. The BMW iX expresses this approach in an extremely concentrated form.” - Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG.
The iX is the first model based on a new, modular, scalable future and brings together the company’s latest developments in the strategic innovation fields of Design, Automated Driving, Connectivity, Electrification and Services. The exterior design is “the face of a new generation” and features a monolithic design approach with large sculpted surfaces and few, very precise lines. Expressive, but not overloaded. Bold, yet clean and elegant. It demonstrates character and gives the car a modern and trendsetting appearance. Inside, a unique sense of space and a new elegant minimalism interior experience that seamlessly extends the digital everyday life awaits the driver. High-tech, intelligence and luxury are combined, offering a simple and natural operation. The combination of innovative sensors and artificial intelligence creates a connection that leads to personalised and proactive dialogues between the driver and the vehicle, resulting in what BMW promises to be “the most emotional and comfortable driving experience we have ever created.” Although the heart of the iX beats fully electric it is a true BMW and the two powerful electric motors, electric all-wheel drive and the fifth generation BMW eDrive technology not only
deliver efficiency, they also elevate the BMW iX’s power to a sport car level: with over 500hp it achieves a noiseless acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in under five seconds. The BMW iX offers an estimated range of 475 km, making it ideal for everyday use as well as for longdistance journeys. With the numerous charging solutions from BMW Charging for at home and public, all options are open. The BMW iX achieves a charging capacity of up to 200 kW and can be charged to 120 km of range in just 10 minutes or 10-80% of the battery in under 40 minutes. At home, a BMW Wallbox with can charge it in less than eleven hours to 100 % battery power.
Next: The all-electric BMW i4 will also enter the market in late 2021, including a BMW M Performance model.
Brian Jessel BMW | 2311 Boundary Rd | Vancouver, BC | (604) 222-7788
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Unveiled just a few weeks ago, the US-made Canoo electric pickup truck has a bed that is 6’ long and can be extended to a fully enclosed 8’. It features a front cargo storage area, a fold down worktable with electric outlets and has been designed to accommodate a variety of camper shells. Dual motors offer “up to 600 hp and 550 lb-ft of torque.” Deliveries will begin as early as 2023. www.canoo.com
ENJOY THE SILENCE “Depending on where you live and how much you drive, you may never need to charge Aptera at all.” A bold statement by the San Diego-based manufacturer, who claim that with drawing less than 100Wh per mile for everyday driving, the Aptera can travel five times further than other electric vehicles with the same-sized solar structure. The futuristic vehicle has a Formula 1-inspired safety cell, advanced airbag technology, and energy-absorbing composite material made of steel and aluminum. Aptera can even drive itself with Level 2 autonomy capability with facial tracking, lane keep, adaptive cruise, and emergency braking. www.aptera.us
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“The Future is for Riders.” Zoox, Amazon’s self-driving vehicle company, has debuted its first electric, fully driverless robotaxi. The futuristic looking “carriage-style” car has a cabin in which passengers face each other. It seats four, has no extra seat or a steering wheel for a driver and has bidirectional driving capabilities and four-wheel steering, allowing it to change directions without the need to reverse and navigate in compact spaces. The top-speed is 120 km/h and it can run up to 16 hours on a single charge. www.zoox.com
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THE NEED FOR
SPEED YES, THIS TIME FOR REAL! On January 17th, 2021 at Space Florida’s LLF, Kennedy Space Center, the SSC Tuatara achieved a verified two-way average speed of 282.9 MPH (455.3 km/h), making it the fastest production car in the world! It is just the first step towards the company meeting their “long standing goal of a verified 300mph run and ultimately to provide an even better product to our valued customers,” says company founder Jerod Shelby.
In late 2020, SCC had already announced an average speed of 316.11 mph (508.73 km/h), whilst driving on a seven-mile (11.27 km) stretch of Highway 160 outside Las Vegas. This beats the marks set by Bugatti’s pre-production Chiron prototype (304.77 mph) and the previous record of 277.87 mph by the Koenigsegg Agera RS. It was verified by two witnesses sanctioned by Guinness World Records. Due to confusion over data validation, SCC decided to redo the run, this time with the data being captured using Racelogic VBOX equipment, as well as hardware and/or software from Life Racing and Garmin. The Tuatara began its long journey to reality back in 2009, when Jerod Shelby was looking to build a successor to the superfast and world-record-setting, SSC Ultimate Aero. Under the aerospace-grade carbon-fiber skin sits a 5.9-liter V-8 mid-engine rated at 1,750 horsepower and 1,280 lb-ft of torque when running on E85 fuel (as it was for the speed-record run). The gearbox is a seven-speed autoclutch manual by CIMA/Automac Engineering, which has its basis in a helicopter transmission. If you want to own the fastest car in the world, just get in touch with SCC and be ready to transfer at least US$1,625,000.
Measuring 45.5 mm in diameter and 14.8 mm in thickness, including the cuvette, the movements come from a haut-de-gamme manufacturer in Fleurier, Switzerland. The Chronograph features a Dubois-Dépraz tri-compax module and both the Perpetual Calendar and the Annual Calendar feature an astronomical moon phase, which only needs a correction of one day every 122 years. The hand-stitched alligator strap features a white gold folding clasp, with an octagonal buckle that bears eight radial-notched screws.
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A FORCE OF
NATURE THE 2021 MASERATI LEVANTE
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‘Named after the Mediterranean wind that can change from calm to gale in an instant, the Levante, Maserati’s very first SUV, is a master of powerful forces that remain under perfect control. Exhilarating performance paired with the luxuries and comfort of a prestigious grand tourer, the Levante embodies the enduring and audacious spirit of Maserati and adds another compelling dimension to a story that dates back over 100 years.’
AH, MASERATI! Say it with the passion of an Italian - Mah-ze-RAH-tee. Music. Don’t you immediately see yourself sitting at a piazza in some fishing village on the Amalfi coast, enjoying an authentic cappuccino, watching people dressed head to toe in the latest fashion, walk by? Your Italian 2-seater convertible is parked right next to you with, of course, its top down. The sun always shines in our dreams, right? Well, back to reality. Actually, we are sitting outside, overlooking fancy yachts, enjoying a hazelnut latte, and our Maserati is parked right in front of us in the sun. Only, this is at the corner of Nicola St and Coal Harbour Quay in Vancouver, the parking meter takes a whopping $8 an hour, and most people walking by wear sweat pants. Oh, and the Maserati is an ... SUV! Tipo M161, Maserati’s in-house code for its mid-sized luxury crossover SUV, started production in 2016 as a 2017 model year. It is based on the Ghibli/Quattroporte platform and followed the Maserati Kubang concept which was unveiled in 2011 at the Frankfurt Auto Show. The Levante initially featured Ferrari’s 3.0L V6 engine, in two states of tune, with a diesel engine available in several countries. In 2018, a V8 was added, producing 590 horsepower in the Trofeo and 550 horsepower in the GTS. Now the Maserati Levante has received its first update, including a refresh of the front and rear styling and an updated infotainment system. We have driven the V8 before, so now with the update we decided to get behind the wheel of the 3.0-litre twin turbo V6. Yes, it is “only” the V6 but at 345hp (369 lb. ft. of torque) it provides plenty of aural drama and character. Starting at C$97,190, our Levante came in the Granlusso-trim with Ermenegildo Zegna silk & leather upholstery, open pore radica wood trim, and a 14- speaker Harmon Kardon audio system, and starts at C$104,690. The Levante S with the 424hp V6 is C$107,190 and a 3.8-litre twin turbo can be under the hood starting at $146,190. The top-of-the-line version, the V8 Trofeo, is C$171,940. The interior. This is an Italian car, and so you expect something opulent and stylish. The Levante, especially with the premium leather upholstery package, doesn’t disappoint! It smells, feels and looks fantastic. The infotainment system received a much needed update – but still no huge touchscreens. What a relief! Gesture control? Nope, what for? We really like it when there are actual buttons for the main controls, such as the climate control and the sound system. The Levante is a big car, and so it feels inside. Great headroom and a wide interior make it comfortable up front and in the back, and with folded down rear seats you have plenty of cargo space for the family vacation or the trip to Home Depot. Start the car, rev it a bit ... and some of Italy’s best music will reach your ears. No, not from the sound system but the engine! The Ferrari-developed V6 truly is internal combustion at its best. Granted, the 0-100 sprint doesn’t take your breath away, which is why we favour the ‘S’ model. The ‘S’ takes almost a second off the sprint and delivers the performance that you need. Yes, obviously the V8 is seriously fast, which represents the right choice if you want a supercar in disguise and in the end it is really up to you. Maserati has the Levante for your individual needs.
BOOK A TEST-DRIVE FOR THE 2021 LEVANTE Please call Maserati of Vancouver at 604.215.8778 or email info@fmov.ca to schedule a test-drive for the Maserati Levante.
As for the driving comfort, the Levante comes with an adjustable air suspension as standard and at speed, it lowers itself to aid aerodynamics and efficiency. The Levante is a great all-rounder, and if you are looking for a sporty, stylish and practical SUV, it should definitely be on your list. It really deserves a wider audience, and maybe the upcoming MC20 supercar will finally draw more attention to this brand with its rich history.
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BERING 72 BIGGER AND BETTER. Bering Yachts has decided to elongate its popular expedition Bering 65 model to offer more space and storage. The B72 will get the same rugged steel hull and aluminium superstructure but adds 7 feet to the overall length, adding even more room to the vessel’s spacious three-deck layout. You will find an expansive saloon and a full-beam galley on the main deck, with the state-rooms on the lower deck. The standard layout sleeps a total of eight, in three guest-cabins and one master suite, but the configuration can be changed to include five or even six cabins and a crew cabin. The B72 offers a sun lounge on the foredeck, an open-air flybridge and aft cockpit. It also has room for one large or two small tenders and an accompanying crane. The yacht has twin Cummins 327-hp diesel engines and can hold 4,500 gallons of fuel.
CRESCERE 433 A SUPERYACHT UNLIKE ANY OTHER, the 433 feet long Crescere is the hypercar for the oceans. With a sleek profile and a bow inspired by sailboats, this yacht seems to have been formed in a wind tunnel and looks smaller than it is. US designer J. David Weiss created this megayacht concept for a client who wanted plant-filled, greenhouse-like walls which span multiple decks. Expansive panes of glass in the hull bathe the social areas in natural light, whereas the other areas are darker and quieter for guests to relax and recharge. It even has a retractable 52-ft by 10-ft lap pool, complete with glass side panels that rise up out of the foredeck, and high-speed pumps that fill it with salt water. When not in use, the pool can be hidden back inside the foredeck, making room for the helipad. The superyacht would be powered by a hybrid diesel-electric system with biofuel generators and solar panels, that recharge its large battery banks, enabling it to hit 40 mph on the water.
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FIND YOUR FREEDOM THIS SUMMER GLOBAL YACHT CHARTER
ALLYSON DONAHUE VANCOUVER
allyson@bridgeyachting.com +1 604 657 2345 RICHARD BRIDGE EUROPE
richard@bridgeyachting.com +44 7711 951247
UNLIMITED RANGE: THE 80 SUNREEF POWER ECO THE 80 SUNREEF POWER ECO is the avant-garde eco-responsible luxury motoryacht, combining electric propulsion, superyacht living spaces and the latest green technologies in the industry. Thanks to its light and ultramodern solar power system covering up to 200m², the 80 Sunreef Power maximizes solar energy generation with up to 40kWp of capacity. The solar panels can be integrated within various composite structures of the yacht, including the mast, boom, superstructure and hull sides. The electric catamaran is fitted with state of the art, ultralight electric boat batteries with a density of less than 6kg /kWh for increased weight-efficiency and performance. The catamaran can be fitted with a kite for enhanced performance and offers infinite décor possibilities, along with access to a broad selection of ethically-sourced and eco-responsible finishing materials. The Polish shipyard’s sailing version of the catamaran generates up to 32kWp and its solar panels cover a total area of 164m². www.sunreef-yachts-eco.com
AZIMUT 53 A FLOATING FLYBRIDGE is one of the key design-elements of the this new 53 foot motoryacht. It is designed for a large party of guests, with lounges, seating and a full upper galley to make the best use of the top deck. A canvas bimini retracts when the boat runs at speed. The 53’s flowing lines hide a spacious interior, making it perfect for a family who want to enjoy long cruises in absolute comfort. The lower deck has a large VIP guest stateroom and a second guest stateroom with twin layout. The master stateroom amidships offers a full-height space with lots of storage, including a walkin wardrobe. The yacht features two Volvo Penta IPS 950s, delivering a top speed of 31 knots and a cruising speed of 27 knots. The Arksen 85 efficient long-range explorer with an extensive standard specification
Scan the QR-code for a presentation of the Azimut 53.
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THE FLOATING ISLAND LEAVING IT ALL BEHIND and moving to an exotic island has been a cherished dream for many, but it seems the prospect is becoming even more attractive due to the global pandemic. Blue Estate might just be the perfect solution. Dubbed “the world’s first floating real estate development”, the manmade island “will be constructed from ultra high performance concrete modules, measuring over 4921ft (1500m) by 3280ft (1000m) in total, which equals an area half the size of Monaco.” The artificial island will be home to more than 15,000 permanent residents who will enjoy “the world’s most exclusive private residences,” that come with “unprecedented levels of privacy and security.” The developer plans to “moor” Blue Estate a 25-minute plane journey from Bahamas’ capital, Nassau, and just under 90 minutes from Miami, FL. Thanks to the prime location, its inhabitants will enjoy more than 340 sunny days per year, a 5-star service, a variety of restaurants, bars, markets and shopping areas, countless sports activities and spa treatments. There will even be an international school offering contemporary education from toddlers to diploma graduates, while a state-of-the-art clinic will take care of all health needs. Numerous playgrounds, green spaces and “the spectacular Garden Deck” will transform Blue Estate into a family friendly place. If all of this sparks your interest, the property portfolio currently list an expansive range of properties. From the budget friendly 20 sqm ‘Ring Levels’ studio apartments ($ 19,800 USD), to the $194,400 USD balcony apartments, all the way up to a $54 million five-bedroom garden villa and the epitome of luxury, one of two “signature estate” mega mansions, priced at $ 1.15 B USD. Blue Estate are also offering a range of business licenses, valid for a period of 12 months and, with a zero percent corporate tax rate, working from the island may just be the place to start up your new business. The developer says that the island “won’t be fully completed for another four years, but some of the properties may be ready for handover by mid-2023.” www.theblueestate.com
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WHY FLY FIRST CLASS WHEN YOU CAN FLY PRIVATE?
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Unlock a new flight experience with Airble. Sign-up to download our Airble app now. airble.com
WELCOME TO A
VIRTUAL REALITY THE DANGER OF LOSING THE HUMAN TOUCH
OVERNIGHT, THE WORLD CHANGED. The global spread of the coronavirus forced millions of people to stay home, creating an epidemic of loneliness and isolation. The only way out was through the internet, which soon became a substitute for all the activities that were suddenly rendered inaccessible. Soon, we realized that we actually didn’t have to leave the house. We didn’t have to leave to work, to play, to dine, or even to spend time with friends. Zoom and FaceTime replaced the office, whilst schools, colleges, and universities around the world shifted their classes to video conferencing, UberEats delivered the food, we worked out online, meeting our fellow fitness-enthusiasts on and through
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the new Mirror with integrated screen, camera and microphone that was delivered right to the door thanks to Amazon. We joined online art classes, beamed ourselves to Italy to see and hear Andrea Bocelli perform, took virtual yoga classes, attended virtual church services and met friends, old and new, for dinner parties. We dressed up, in front of the camera of our phone, tablet or computer, joining hundreds of tiny tile-people, enjoying the food that was delivered as part of the experience. And sports? Whilst unable to attend in person, some stadia installed hundreds of loudspeakers, allowing fans to choose their seats using an app, and then, in real-time during the game, share their emotions by picking an action, from cheering to booing.
We ended up in a digital world. Fascinating. And the more we think about it, the more we realize how inevitable it was... that we actually started building a virtual world to replace a broken and less perfect physical one many years ago. And what would have evolved insidiously over the next few years, hit us in overdrive, fuelled and accelerated by the pandemic. Do you remember Total Recall? The Paul Verhoeven science-fiction movie in which Arnold Schwarzenegger visits Rekall, a company that creates virtual vacations, and chooses a “trip” to Mars to be a secret agent? Well, we are not that far away from it. A company in Europe developed a virtual city which we, or better yet, our obviously perfectly styled Avatar, can
© McKinsey
Global Institute
They will allow both employee and employer to benefit from the best of both worlds, avoiding the tendency to stifle our creativity, due to spending too much time at home. Studies have shown that people working exclusively from home experience a degree of technostress, as digital technology makes it easier for bosses and managers to call and locate the employee at any time. The home no longer represents the haven of privacy, shelter and comfort that it once did.
visit at any given time. Famous DJs perform each day and night, you can play games at an arcade, go to a furniture store and virtually check out the new couch, buy it and then have it delivered, even check out and design your new car, book a test-drive and purchase it. All without leaving the comfort of your cell. Sorry, house. This conjures up images from Wall-E, with humans leaving earth as passengers on a cruise ship-like spaceship, degenerating into helpless corpulence through extreme laziness, as machines catered to their every whim. Okay, you get the point, right? As much as modern technology enables us to create marvellous tools, which help us to reinforce our real-world ties, connect with one another, share information and resources, or come up with collective solutions to urgent problems, it certainly comes with some potentially dangerous side-effects. Significant shifts in usage patterns and behaviour across the globe, people adjust to the “new normal”, leads us question whether or not technology is killing the human touch? Personal interaction and physical touch are fundamental to human development. Whether it is shaking a coworker’s hand or hugging a friend, we are accustomed to some level of platonic physical touch on a daily basis. Research shows that big parts of our brains are devoted to making sense of touch and our skin has billions of cells that process related information. Touch reduces stress and stimulates the release of hormones that enhance the immune system, regulate digestion and promote restful sleep. So what if working and studying from home, eating in instead of meeting friends at a pub or restaurant, shopping online rather than visiting a store and talking to a salesperson become the new norm? Psychological research into
catastrophic events, quarantine and ongoing stressors shows that most people are resilient and are able to bounce back over time. Wuhan, the Chinese city where the pandemic is believed to have started, also saw the first coronavirus lockdown. Little more than seven months later, in August 2020, the city staged a massive festival in which thousands of people crowded, shoulder to shoulder, with no protective masks or social distancing. Scientists expect this to happen elsewhere in the world when the pandemic is over. When it comes to our workplaces, it appears that working from home won’t become obligatory and many companies are developing hybrid working models.
Another point worth mentioning is the impact on the job market itself. Within only a few months, COVID-19 has disrupted labour markets globally and provoked a massive demand shock, precipitating job losses that far exceed those experienced a decade ago during the Great Recession. According to McKinsey Global Institute, the pandemic accelerated existing trends in remote work, e-commerce, and automation, with up to 25 percent more workers than previously estimated potentially needing to switch occupations. By automating daily routines and physical visits to buy groceries, electronics, clothing and more, businesses are having to rethink and restructure as less people visit stores and instead order online. The pre-pandemic demand for cashiers, for example, may be greatly reduced, and instead be replaced by a structured pick-up system for delivery services. A recent study has shown that 1 in 16 people may lose their job and need to retrain. The trend towards automation was definitely already in motion prior to the pandemic but has been greatly accelerated by it. This is obviously a complex, and wide reaching situation and the ongoing research is expansive. Only time will tell whether we are proactive and learn from this experience, or instead lack reflection in our decisions and react hastily, jeopardising our overall quality of life in the process.
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by Jason Boudreau | text by Stephen Fern
WHAT IS
THE MONEY FOR? Bringing Together Wisdom, Expertise and Capital To Ensure The Future Of Our Planet
IT IS A QUESTION THAT FEW WEALTHY FAMILIES ACTUALLY EVER CONTEMPLATE. “WHAT IS THE WEALTH FOR?” Following the sale of my business in December 1999, I asked myself a simple question ‘What now’. I was 35 and had built a substantial network of wealthy families and their advisors dealing with the ‘technical aspects’ of wealth ownership trusts, tax and investments, but few seemed to be addressing the purpose of wealth; “what is wealth for?”
with families, advisors and thought leaders to help wealthy families find the answer to that question, but the original premise has changed very little over that time: if we align wealth with the values of our family, everyone within the family can enjoy a fulfilled life applying their own very special skills to something that they feel passionate about.
At that time, the vast majority of families deployed 99% of their wealth to make more money (irrespective of how) and at the end of the year a cheque was drafted to support local or philanthropic causes. But it wasn’t common to meet functioning happy families who felt enabled by their wealth managing the wealth created stress and anxiety and the expectations on the shoulders of next gens was a burden that many found was too great to bear.
Of course there is no single model or formula for becoming what I called a ‘successful legacy family’ but there were common characteristics which appeared to feature strongly in families which appeared to have got the balance right.
So I embarked on a journey over the last two decades, working
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Aligning wealth with values - every time a significant deployment of capital is made by the family (acquiring a business, investing or buying a substantial private asset) the question is asked “does this align with our values?’
Of course this begs the question ‘What are our values?’ This doesn’t have to be too complicated but without appropriate guidance can end up as a meaningless, generic ‘love of motherhood and apple pie’ statement that does little to guide the process as to the true values of the family. The ‘Family Bank’ - not actually owning a bank but using the families wealth to ‘invest’ in both financial, human and social capital. A complex issue, but effectively this is the simplest way to avoid the universal truth of wealth: “Shirtsleeves to shirtsleeves in three generations” By treating the family’s capital as belonging to the ‘family bank’, the decisions as to how the funds are deployed are made through a different lens. “What is our security / what is the return / how is it measured” In effect, this limits the use of capital for consumption but uses the family’s wealth as an enabler to achieve answers to the question ‘What is the money for?” Unlike a third party bank, the ‘family bank’ can be used to fund investments which enhance the non financial capital of the family - supporting education of family members, family (vacation homes) and social investments (community and environment) Empowering the next generation preparing our children and grandchildren to understand the values which underpin their future role as custodians of the family’s wealth and to EMPOWER them to behave responsibly so that we can trust them to do the job well. In many respects this is the greatest challenge that families of wealth face as typical wealth structuring disenfranchises our children from the management of the family’s wealth: “We don’t trust you to do a good job so we have placed control of the money in the hands of third parties”. What message does this give your children and grandchildren?
Empowering our children requires us to embed the shared family values in our children from the day they are born. Values are not built by bringing in a consultant, but by sharing stories over mealtimes. Embedded values drive the future decision making of our children and so if we nurture those values we can trust our children to behave responsibly with the wealth of the family. Of course this is predicated upon the wealth creators or current wealth holders having values which we wish our children to have - for me, the starting point for my children has been: “I want you to lead a fulfilled life applying your own unique skills to something you feel passionate about” PLANET EARTH My own personal epiphany came in 2018 when I heard the UN declare that we have 12 years to save planet earth. That by 2030 the destruction of eco systems will have tipped over the edge of a precipice from which their is no return. No amount of wealth, no legacy planning, no investment, no real estate portfolio, no educational initiative or search for medical cure will be relevant to life on earth if we continue on this current trajectory. The world wasn’t listening and the actions being taken to address the climate crisis were inconsequential. It took me back to the very first questions being raised two decades ago. ‘What is the money for?” There is no greater purpose on earth. No more important issue to resolve... and for every family of wealth it provides the perfect opportunity to align wealth with values and to empower each and every member of the family to apply their own specific skills to a task that it is impossible not to be passionate about restoring planet earth. Not just slowing down global warming but reversing the climate crisis and preventing the destruction of our planet.
ARK2030 We established three pillars of action which underpin the mission to restore planet earth back to health: Ark2030 - restoring the 500 million hectares of global ecosystems destroyed by mankind since the beginning of the industrial revolution. Not just a vision but a road map for every continent and ocean. Working with Governments, supra national bodies, global NGOs and local NGOs applying the latest technologies with ancient indigenous wisdom to create sustainable eco system restoration on an epic scale. Climate Crisis Capital - funding the ideas, innovations and businesses which are capable of turning back the dial on the climate crisis and the destruction of our planet. Working with academic institutions, entrepreneurs and business leaders we need to provide the capital to optimise the impact of every business involved in providing drawdown solutions (reversing the global CO2 emissions to net zero by 2050) developing the circular economy and re imagining our food systems from farm to fork. Education: Earth Cubs - if Ark2030 and Climate Crisis Capital achieve their objectives then we have to make sure that we hand over a healthier planet earth to a new generation of 1billion children who understand their role in protecting the planet. And so we come full circle to our original mission. If we teach strong values from an early age, we lay the foundations for a brighter future for our family, our community and most importantly for our planet.
Stephen Fern is the Chairman of Ark2030. Following Law School, he became a chartered accountant with Arthur Andersen before establishing a financial education business which he sold in 1999. He founded Ark in 2003, working with global business families to drive private capital into Impact, and developing a plan to end the climate crisis.
JASON BOUDREAU CFP, CLU WEALTH ADVISOR Principal & Founder - VELA Wealth www.velawealth.com
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THE BIG SLEEP HOW TO MASTER SLEEP … SO THAT YOU CAN DO IT WITH YOUR EYES CLOSED
by Dr. Oliver Finlay
“Sleep is the golden chain that ties health and our bodies together.” — Thomas Dekker
A
ccording to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and Sleep Research Society, adults should have at least seven hours of sleep per night to avoid the health risks of chronic, inadequate sleep. However, each person is different and some need eight or nine hours to feel rested and alert during the day. Dr Cheri Mah, a sleep specialist at University of California in San Francisco, recommends that athletes have a minimum of eight hours sleep per night and some may need more than ten. Mah consults for teams in the NBA, NFL and NHL and her research with basketball players found that extended sleep can improve free-throw and three-point shooting by 9%. Sleep plays a crucially important role in both our physical and mental well-being. However, very few of us pay the same attention to improving our quantity and quality of sleep as we pay to enhancing our health and performance through more active pursuits. Get the sleep part wrong, however, and all the good work we commit to exercise, nutrition and mindfulness practices, can be significantly undermined.
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Scientists understand that some of our genes act as internal clocks. According to circadian rhythms, which are governed by alternating spells of darkness and light over each 24-hour period, genes are switched on or off, leading to the regulation of hormones such as insulin, cortisol, growth hormone and testosterone. Sustained periods of sleep have a body building effect, with testosterone and growth hormone being released as we rest. This stimulates the healing and growth of muscle and bone, which help us recover from the exertions of our daily life. When we interfere with these cycles, by having too little sleep, our metabolism of glucose declines, which affects our energy levels and our level of the stress hormone, cortisol, increases. Therefore, poor sleep can impair the body’s ability to repair itself and the mind’s ability to regulate mood. Persistent sleep deficiencies can lead to an increased risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, stroke and kidney disease. Sleep deprivation can contribute to anxiety, lack of concentration, poor focus, bad memory recall, slowed reactions, reduced productivity and episodes of depression.
INTERESTING SLEEP FACTS
Without enough sleep, we all become tall twoyear olds. – Jojo Jensen
Sleep deprived medical interns made 36% more serious medical errors than their colleagues on a schedule that allowed more sleep (Comondore et al, 2008).
Curtailed nights of sleep negatively impact some aspects of brain function, including reaction times, cognitive and motor function, to a similar degree as alcohol intoxication (Lowrie and Brownlow, 2020). People operating on less sleep tend to weigh significantly more than those who get adequate sleep (Patel and Hu, 2008; Taheri et al, 2004). Children and adults with short sleep duration were 89% and 55% more likely to develop obesity (Cappuccio et al, 2008) through reasons related to hormonal regulation and motivation to exercise (Di Milia et al, 2013). Sleep deprivation disrupts daily fluctuations in hormones that influence appetite and causes poor appetite regulation (Markwald et al, 2013; Taheri et al, 2004). THE FOUR STAGES OF SLEEP Whilst sleeping is often considered a most relaxing pastime, Good night, it is actually sleep tight. a time of inNow the sun tense activity in turns out his the brain and light. Good other parts of night, sleep the body. Over tight, dream the course of a sweet dreams night, the body experiences for me, dream cycles of sleep sweet dreams which consist for you. of four phas– The Beatles es; ‘Awake’, ‘Light’, ‘Deep’ and ‘REM’. Each phase plays a different role in maintaining mental and physical health through the process of rest and regeneration. The amount of each phase of sleep can vary from person to person and from night to night, however, in an ideal night’s sleep, the body is able to undergo four to five complete cycles of around 90-110 minutes in duration. Whilst each cycle transitions sequentially through the phases, cycles earlier in
the night tend to have more time spent in deep sleep, whilst later cycles have a higher proportion of time spent in REM. Overall, the majority of the night is spent in light sleep and in the final cycle, deep sleep may be skipped altogether (Stutz et al, 2019). Awake (Stage 0) This is the natural break in sleep and describes the time spent in bed before and after falling asleep, as well as the brief awakenings that occur during sleep. Light (Stages 1 & 2) This phase guides the transition into deeper sleep. During this time, muscles may jerk and then relax, the rate of breathing slows, heart rate decreases, body temperature drops, sleep begins or transitions to the next phase. Waking from this phase is easier. Deep (Stages 3 & 4) Physical restoration occurs during this phase, with muscle growth and repair brought about by an increase of blood flow to the muscles, the release of growth hormone, tissue growth and cell repair. Immune function is boosted. Blood pressure drops and the brain flushes waste products and demonstrates long, slow brain waves. During this time, waking up is more difficult and results in grogginess or disorientation. REM (Rapid Eye Movement) (Stage R) If the previous phase was most focused on physical regeneration, this phase re-energises the mind. During this stage, respiration and heart rate increase, temperature regulation is switched off and vivid dreams may occur and (fortunately, for most people), the body is immobilised to stop you from acting out your dreams. The benefits here are focused on memory, learning and problem solving, as the brain processes information and stores long-term memories. After a hard workout the body may prioritise deep sleep, whilst if you are recovering from a period of sleep deprivation, the body may prioritise deep sleep for the first few nights to repair the body, before REM becomes the priority to focus on brain regeneration. Caffeine may reduce total sleep time and thus disproportionately cut down on the total time spent in REM, as REM stages are more likely to occur in later sleep cycles. ICONIC CONCIERGE
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“Each night, when I go to sleep, I die. And the next morning, when I wake up, I’m reborn.” – Mahatma Gandhi
SLEEP AND YOUR GUT
EVALUATING SLEEP
Adequate sleep is very important for a healthy gut microbiome and given the hormonal link between the gut and the brain, this relationship contributes to the impact of sleep on mental “There is more health. refreshment and
Poor sleep leads to reduced levels of testosterone, a reduction in insulin sensitivity which can result in elevated levels of blood glucose and increased levels of the stress hormone, cortisol. These changes can be detected by analysing blood samples (Reedy, 2021).
stimulation in a nap, even of the briefest, than in all the alcohol ever distilled.” – Edward Lucas
The gut microbiome is the community of 400-500 different species of bacterial microorganisms that live in the intestinal tract. Research shows that the microbiome plays a significant role in our overall health through how it affects digestion, improves nutrient absorption and vitamin production, balances hormones (such as cortisol and insulin), impacts the body’s inflammatory response and modulates the immune system (Darian, 2021). Just like us, the gut microbiome has a circadian rhythm of its own, with gut microbes oscillating in abundance and activity during the day and night. Studies have shown that sleep deprivation is associated with unfavourable changes in gut microbiome composition and can lead to high levels of the biomarker hsCRP, which signals a state of chronic inflammation. In contrast, seven to eight hours sleep a night has been associated with an optimised gut, helping balance and enrich the microorganisms that live within our digestive system and having a positive impact on physical performance, mental health and immunity.
Wearable technology can be used to track aspects of sleep, including sleep duration, sleep quality (by tracking the amount of movement whilst asleep), environmental factors such as the amount of light or temperature in a room, lifestyle factors related to diet or stress levels or the amount of time spent in various phases of sleep (Johns Hopkins Medicine, 2021). As the information collected doesn’t measure sleep directly, it is analysed using algorithms to guess how much sleep has been experienced and can be useful for recognising patterns or trends in your sleep habits. Clinical sleep studies are the only way of measuring sleep directly and analysing each stage of sleep throughout the course of a night. These studies monitor brain waves and are useful for diagnosing conditions such as sleep apnoea and other disorders. ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS THAT AFFECT SLEEP Be intentional about your bedroom environment and make it like a cave…really dark, cool and quiet but also comfortable.
SLEEP SUPPLEMENTATION
“My mother told Afternoon naps can give temporary me to follow my improvements in alertness and performance for several hours but dreams, so I you have to know how to nap properly took a nap.” to get the most benefit. Dr Cheri Mah – Unknown recommends power naps of 20-30 minutes in duration. Naps of more than 45 minutes allow a deeper sleep, which can result in sleep inertia upon waking, where you feel more sluggish and worn down for a while. Given that caffeine takes about 30 minutes to take effect, having a cup of coffee or green tea immediately before having a nap, will ensure you wake up in a phase of light sleep, feeling refreshed and ready to go again in the right time frame.
Positive Impact: increased daytime exposure to sunshine; darkness for sleeping (use blackout curtains or eye masks); cool ambient temperatures (~ 60F/15C) and adequate ventilation increase sleep duration and morning alertness; quiet environments increase sleep duration and quality (the use of ear plugs or white noise can help when environmental noise levels are high); aromatherapy oils such as lavender, geranium, mandarin, bergamot and marjoram promote relaxation and increase the likelihood of falling asleep.
“A ruffled mind makes a restless pillow.” – Charlotte Bronte
Negative Impact: high humidity (80%+) negatively affects sleep quality compared to lower humidity (50%); prolonged duration of watching television; exposure to bright light or bright screens in the 2 hours before bed (use screen filter settings, apps or yellow tinted lenses to reduce the brightness and intensity of light); dehydration can cause sweats and cramps, whilst hyperhydration can interrupt sleep; inadequate pillows and mattresses – you should change your pillows every 1-2 years and your mattress every 6-8 years. ACTIVITIES AND ROUTINES THAT AFFECT SLEEP A regular bedtime, preceded by a 20- to 30-minute wind down routine helps the transition to sleep by quieting the mind. For athletes, this can involve gentle stretching or yoga. Some people
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like to read a book (chose a real book to avoid screens). Others have a mindfulness practice. Do: take a warm bath or shower before bed; keep a regular bedtime and a regular pre-bed routine; practice mindfulness or breathing exercises before bed; put your feet up in the evening as the body can start to reabsorb water from your legs before you lie down to sleep and can thus reduce sleep interruptions through needing to empty the bladder overnight; empty your bladder before bed.
“I tried counting sheep so I can fall asleep but that got boring, so I started talking to the shepherd instead.” – Unknown
Do Not: exercise vigorously in the 2-4 hours before bed; eat big meals in the 2-4 hours before bed; use the bedroom for anything other than sleeping or romance; work on a PC or watch TV in the 2 hours before bed; drink large quantities of fluid in the 2 hours before bed; take your phone into the bedroom; drink caffeine in the late afternoon or evening as it has a half-life of about 6 hours and can impact the ability to fall asleep for this amount of time.
FOODS THAT AFFECT SLEEP Positive Impact: tomato products and fatty fish promote increased sleep duration; calcium rich foods minimise non-restorative sleep; tomatoes, sweet potatoes, carrots, brazil nuts, macadamia nuts, coconut oil, dairy and tofu increase the likelihood of falling asleep; magnesium kicks off cascades that bring the body to a restful state that helps you to fall asleep; optimal vitamin D levels (both high and low levels affect sleep quality).
“A day without a nap is like a cupcake without frosting.” – Terri Guillemets
Negative Impact: salt, non-water drinks and foods high in saturated fats and cholesterol decrease sleep quality; alcohol impairs sleep quality; fatty animal products, caffeine and chocolate decrease the ability to fall asleep.
References Cappuccio, F.P., Taggart, F.M., Kandala, N.-B., Currie, A., Peile, E., Stranges, S. and Miller, M.A. (2008). Meta-analysis of short sleep duration and obesity in children and adults. Sleep, 31(5), 619626. | Comondore, V.R., Wenner, J.B. and Ayas, N.T. (2008). The impact of sleep deprivation in resident physicians on physician and patient safety: is it time for a wake-up call? BCMJ, 50(10), 560-564. | Darian, M. (2021). Optimize your microbiome with the new InsideTracker gut health goal. InsideTracker.com. | Di Milia, L., Vandelanotte, C .and Duncan, M.J. (2013). The association between short sleep and obesity controlling for demographic, lifestyle, work and health related factors. Sleep Med, 14(4), 319-323. | Johns Hopkins Medicine (2021). Do sleep trackers really work? HopkinsMedicine.com. | Lowrie, J. and Brownlow, H. (2020). The impact of sleep deprivation and alcohol on driving: a comparative study. BMC Public Health, 20, 980. | Markwald, R.R., Melanson, E.L., Smith, M.R., Higgins, J., Perreault, L., Eckel, R.H. and Wright Jr, K.P. (2013). Impact of insufficient sleep on total daily energy expenditure, food intake and weight gain. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA, 110(14), 5695-5700. | Patel, S.R. and Hu, F.B. (2008). Short sleep duration and weight gain: a systematic review. Obesity, 16 (3), 643-653. | Reedy, J. (2021). Get a more restful night’s sleep without changing your bedtime. InsideTracker.com. | Stutz, J., Eiholzer, R., and Spengler, C.M. (2019). Effects of evening exercise on sleep in healthy participants: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Sports Med, 49(2), 269-287. | Taheri, S., Ling, L., Austin, D., Young, T. and Mignot, E. (2004)/ Short sleep duration is association with reduced leptin, elevated ghrelin and increased body mass index. PLoS Med, 1(3), e 62.
SLEEP WITH THE BEST Smart. Luxurious. Inviting. Great in bed. Enhance your sleep by investing in a luxury sleep experience. It begins with bespoke bed linens, hand-crafted in British Columbia using the finest European textiles. F I N D O U T M O R E AT S T G E N E V E . C O M / I C O N I C
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SUMMER READY
MEDICAL AESTHETICS FOR MEN
Are you one of the 80% of men struggling to get rid of your love handles? With summer just a few months away, you may be thinking about barbeques, beaches and…well, bellies. Want to know how you can reach your body goals in time? Read on, as we can provide a little help…
Need A Little Help Reaching Those Goals?
Through advanced techniques and innovation in the latest body contouring treatments, it is now possible to reduce unwanted fat and even sculpt and tone to reach your individual body goals. You don’t need to struggle with stubborn pockets of fat With Coolsculpting, the #1 Fat Reduction treatment in North America, you can eliminate fat in those stubborn places that are difficult to target with diet and exercise alone. The cooling device safely delivers controlled cooling to target fat cells underneath the skin, freezing them and forcing them to die. Results last indefinitely.
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Struggling to get those abs? Did you ever think there was a machine that could help you get a 6pack? Our Emsculpt procedure not only builds muscle while simultaneously burning fat in areas such as the abdomen, but it also helps strengthen core muscles. It delivers the equivalent of 20,000 sit-ups or squats in 30 minutes by stimulating contractions in the targeted area.
The Game Changer
Reach your ultimate goals with the Total Body Contouring Combo. When we combine Coolsculpting to eliminate fat with Emsculpt to tone and tighten, it is the ultimate game-changer in achieving desired results. The combination of reducing unwanted fat in stubborn spots while building muscle and toning has the ability to reshape the areas you wish to target.
Dr. Christopher Pavlou, MD
1046 HAMILTON ST, VANCOUVER, BC 778-945-7505 info@skintechnique.com www.skintechnique.com
Revolutionary Body Cream
Post body contouring treatments, we recommend our patients use the TransForm body cream by Alastin which helps to speed up the fat loss, tighten and repair sagging skin. With its patented TriHex Technology® (the newest evolution in skin care), we are able to optimize body contouring treatments and completely change the game when it comes to delivering desired results. Body contouring packages on now. Inquire for details by calling 778-945-7505.
Don’t Forget The Face
Are you a stylish gentleman? The Stylish Gentleman recognizes that the importance of good skincare is equally as important as the attention to detail that comes with fashion, health and etiquette — you need to take care of your skin as much as you take care of everything else. Aesthetics for men is the fastest growing segment in aesthetic medicine as more men continue to care about their appearance, confidence and skin health. Taking care of your skin is one of the most important factors in maintaining a healthy appearance, and this requires attention to detail and a proper medical grade skin care regimen. Nothing beats a proper skin consultation at a physician directed clinic that is able to help you achieve desired results through every stage of life. For a custom consultation our experienced team at Skin Technique in downtown Vancouver is here to help with recommendations and education about our services and medical grade skin care products. We are always available to help you choose the best treatment for your individual needs.
@drpavlou
Skin Technique
/doctorpavlou
models: KELVIN LOPES /@kelvinlopes COREY WADDEN /@coreywadden JAMIE HA /@jameeh photography: GABRIEL KAVA /@gabriel.kava
Surmesur Vancouver
1012 Mainland St. | (604) 424-8555
@surmesurvancouver
vancouver@surmesur.com
What to Wear
When the World Re-Opens It’s been over a year of lockdowns, takeout, video conferencing and sweatpants. Uncertainty still hangs in the air, but with the Spring blooms comes a whiff of optimism. Vaccines are being rolled out ahead of schedule and our society is finding ways to open the world back up safely. Whether we’re allowed to travel or not this summer, patios will be bustling with the restless. Miami, Milan and Santorini will be the vibe in Yaletown, Coal Harbour
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and Kelowna. True leaders know that good vibes aren’t merely a product of environment, but are the result of the attitude you bring.
the freedom of movement you’ve become accustomed to. Even work wear will be broken up with patterns and casual shirts made from breathable bamboo or linen.
The IDGAF look of streetwear will be outshined by those gentlemen who show an ounce of effort. Sport jackets and casual collared shirts will communicate your intentions to celebrate to those seeking invitations. New brighter wardrobes in unique colours scream “I’m away from the office” and looser silhouettes allow for
Styling will take on familiar forms from eras when physical touch and crowded spaces were the norm. While Gen Z tries to emulate the 90’s, the adults will evoke the Roaring 20’s and the free-spirited 60’s. Let drinks be drunk, let money be spent, and may your celebrations be memorable to you and your expanded bubble.
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THE
GENTLEMAN by Julie-Anna Vogel | www.julieabroad.com
ABROAD
EDITION 5 - CHICAGO, USA AH... CHICAGO…Chi-town, the second city and yes, windy, blowing right off Lake Michigan. Where Route 66 begins and the Twinkie was invented in 1930…though originally with a banana crème filling. It wasn’t until a banana shortage during WWII that it changed to vanilla. The Exposition of 1893 saw the first ferris wheel, the creation of the hot dog (a better way to sell sausages to a wandering crowd) and Pabst winning its famous blue ribbon. Where natty dresser, Al Capone, made $60 million selling illegal hooch, Ernest Hemingway made a start, Barack Obama launched his political career and where the Cubs have played since 1871. Whether enjoying sports, dining on locally invented deep dish pizza or betting on the futures market, the renaissance gentleman will never be bored. A few things to amuse…
CHICAGO ARCHITECT FOUNDATION RIVER CRUISES - Not the cheapest, but definitely the best way to discover more about the history of the buildings that make up the city, where the skyscraper was invented and Frank Lloyd Wright left his mark. www.architecture.org/tours/ RICHARD’S FABULOUS FINDS - The thrift store of your dreams… not your college toga party. Richard knows clothes. He spent years working for the likes of Ralph Lauren & Niemen Marcus and consulting on films and TV. Richard scours the world for unique and quality pieces, mostly from the 30’s to 70’s… think Rat Pack chic. www.richardsfabulousfinds.com DUSTY GROOVE VINYL - Two UCHI students started an online place to buy records in 1996, and expanded to brick & mortar five years later before adding a record label to license rare tracks. They regularly acquire large collections which recently included 40,000 titles bought from radio station WGN. Exploring in person is a must for anyone with a turntable! www.dustygroove.com
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SMYTH RESTAURANT - Named after the small county in Virginia where chefs John and Karen Shields honed their skills, Smyth Restaurant‘s tasting menus are the stuff of dreams. Creative dishes, carefully sourced ingredients, knowledgeable servers… every bite perfection. And they play vinyl all night long! No wonder Michelin has awarded them two stars. I believe three will be coming soon. www.smythandtheloyalist.com
MERZ APOTHECARY - Only owned by two families since 1875, Merz is the place to go for great advice, friendly neighbourhood service and an incredible selection of homeopathic and natural self-care products. Their out post, Q Brothers focuses on men’s shaving products. The only downside, this landmark shop has become a stop on many tours, therefore visit in the off-hours. www.merzapothecary.com
THE 606, AKA THE BLOOMINGDALE TRAIL - Opened in 2015, this is Chicago’s answer to New York’s Highline, only wider. Built along a 2.7 mile stretch of defunct raised railroad line, you can walk, run or ride it’s length, while admiring both permanent and temporary art installations along the way. The name originates from the 3 digits shared by all zip codes in Chicago. The city is hoping to extend the trail and connect it to other parks over the coming years. www.the606.org
(top) Merz Apothecary | Richard’s Fabulous Finds | Smyth Restaurant (bottom) Chicago Architect Foundation River Cruises | Bordel
BORDEL - Where Al Capone would hang out if he time-traveled to 2021, Bordel recreates the red velvet glamour of Prohibition. Low lighting, burlesque shows, live jazz and potent cocktails make this the perfect modern speakeasy. Located above Mama Delia restaurant, you enter through an unmarked door at the top of a blood red staircase! Pay up for stage view. www.bordelchicago.com
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The Gentleman
They should have taught you this in school....
by Dr. Christian Brix
DRIVING ME CRAZY.... If you drive a vehicle enough, you have likely developed a similar list of things that make you as crazy as they do for me. It seems that, like reading the comments section after a particularly controversial article, the more time you spend on the road, the less faith you have in the future of humanity. Maybe it’s just me. We have explored so many rules for gentlemen in these articles over the years, and this issue is certainly the best one so far to look at the ones for drivers. Regardless of whether you’re commuting to work downtown in your tiny electric car, or tearing up the highway in your exotic supercar, the rules are the rules. Here are a just a few. We must of course begin for passengers with the ones that shouldn’t even have to be included on this list. Please don’t put your feet on the dash, touch the music, eat/ drink in the car, smoke, back seat drive, or leave garbage behind when you leave. For the love of everything holy: get out of the left lane on the highway. This is arguably the number one cause of stress for the average decent operator of any motor vehicle in the world. MOVE OVER! A “Thank-you” wave when someone lets you in has so much power. It bonds you as fellow soldiers in the trenches of traffic, and puts a tiny bit of positivity in the world. Who doesn’t want that? Cool stereo! Thank-you for turning it super loud and driving with your windows down by my table on a patio as I try to enjoy my meal. We are all impressed. Don’t. Slam. The. Door.
For those of you with a vehicle used for towing, in the interest of shins around the world, remove your hitch ball. While “slowpokes in the fast lane” is certainly number one, a very close second is those with the inability to drive a relatively consistent speed. If you are fluctuating between 90 and 140 km/h randomly, and I am forced to pass you for the fifth time in the last 30 minutes as I try to ride comfortably in cruise control, I guarantee I am behind you losing my mind.
“I you don’t mind ... maybe save the fog lights for when it’s foggy?”
If we are honest and ask ourselves how much farther we actually get as we try to slalom our way aggressively through gridlock, I think we come to the same conclusion. Maybe just relax, listen to something that makes you happy, and save the life of your signal light’s bulb. I you don’t mind, maybe save the fog lights for when it’s foggy? Did you cut someone off or accidentally almost hit them? Instead of looking down or pretending it didn’t happen, just be a man and give them the appropriate “I’m sorry” wave. You will spread a little goodwill and reduce your chances being met with a knock on your window at the next red light.
Since we are all grown-ups, and should have control over our emotions, I think that maybe we should leave the horn alone. Let’s settle down a little. Pulled over and getting a ticket? Take your punishment with dignity and class. If you are the type that needs to remind the police officer that you “pay their salary,” then you should put this magazine down immediately. It’s not for you.
Mac McCleary said “patience is something you admire in the driver behind you and scorn in the one ahead.” While there may be moments when we are tempted to put our full body weight into honking the horn, we are always better served to turn up the music, feel the steering wheel in our hands and appreciate the journey a little bit more.
Dr. Christian Brix Dr. Christian Brix is a writer, a gentleman, and a Chiropractor living in and loving Kelowna B.C. www.brixfamilychiropractic.com
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QUEST FOR A LEGEND The World of Louis XIII
photography: @deependcreative | The Deep End | Vancouver location : The Gerard Room – Sutton Place Hotel, Vancouver
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“When you discover Louis XIII, you become a different man.” -- former Cellar Master George Clot
Paul-Emile Remy Martin
“Louie Trez” is one of the most highly regarded and desirable cognacs in the world, an exquisite blend of up to 1,200 eaux-de-vie sourced 100% from the Grande Champagne, the first cru of the Cognac region where the house of Remy Martin was established in 1724. More than a century of producing later, in 1841, PaulEmile Rémy Martin took over the business and began selling the House’s cognacs under the Rémy Martin name. The first Louis XIII cognac was created in 1874 as a blend of only the finest eaux-de-vie, or “water of life”, Paul-Emile Rémy Martin could find in his cellars, and it would become a privileged observer of the 20th century and an emblem of luxury and the French affinity for the good life. Louis XIII has been served in the dining car of the iconic Orient Express or onboard the maiden flight of the Concorde, and has been an honoured guest on some of the most legendary sumptuous dinners, including at the banquet for Queen Elizabeth in Versailles. And to this day, Louis XIII continues to be the crown jewel for the House of Rémy Martin, and is now under the expertise of Cellar Master Baptiste Loiseau.
We followed an invitation by Louis XIII national brand ambassador, Chen Wei Lee, to learn more about the rich history of the brand and to enjoy this finest of cognacs, perfectly paired with some exceptional Russian sturgeon caviar. Master & Apprentice It is said that behind every great brand, there is a man. In the case of LOUIS XIII, it is not a man, but a dynasty. Louis XIII cognac is aged for between 40 and 100 years and it can take up to four generations of Cellar Masters to handpick the finest and most mature nectar to craft the blend before it is ready to drink. The reputation is indeed the fruit of a family dream that inspired André Renaud, Chairman of Rémy Martin from 1924 to 1965, and his son-in-law and successor, André Hériard Dubreuil. The Cellar Master has always been appointed by the Chairman to carry on, unchanged,
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the heritage of LOUIS XIII. Therefore, a cellar master might never get to taste the final blend, and has to carefully coach a successor. It truly is a legacy that is passed on from master to apprentice, and each Louis XIII decanter is in a way the life achievement of generations of cellar masters. In 2014 and after 38 years at the House, Pierrette Trichet decided to hand over the baton to Baptiste Loiseau. Now the fifth Cellar Master in the dynasty, Baptiste Loiseau works with the old eaux-de-vie selected and matured by his predecessors at the Historic old decanter beginning of the 20th century. He also chooses those which will likely make up the LOUIS XIII cognac in the next century. The entire future of Rémy Martin depends on his art and talent. The Classic Decanter Such a prestigious cognac had to be presented in the most elegant way. This is why Paul-Émile decided to condition this precious nectar in an ornate decanter. Made from hand-blown crystal by master craftsmen, it was created in 1874 and is a reproduction of a round, spiked metal flask discovered by a farmer at the site of the 1569 Battle of Jarnac and bought by Paul-Emile Rémy Martin in 1850. The flask had an intriguing shape and featured three distinctive fleurs-de-lys. Today, the unique silhouette of the LOUIS XIII decanter remains virtually unchanged and is a bespoke objet d’art, handcrafted by a team of 11 skilled artisans from some of Europe’s most prestigious crystal houses. No two of these decanters are the same and each decanter is individually numbered. The complexity of the work requires a great deal of intuition at every step: the craftspeople work efficiently to hand-blow the decanter’s unique shape when the temperature of the crystal is just right, producing the 10 distinctive fine dentelle spikes by hand. The decanter is then hand-engraved with eight fleurs-de-lys, a distinctive motif symbolising French royalty. It is hand-finished with a 20-carat gold neck, and sealed with a magnificent fleur-de-lys stopper. A LOUIS XIII is available in a range of formats, from a 5cl Miniature up to a 6L Mathusalem, with the Classic decanter as the most widely available size. Cognac & Technology Despite being a cognac that dates back more than a century ago, Louis XIII is now stepping into the future with its latest crystal smart decanter. It has Near Field Technology (NFC) technology integrated on the cork stopper, which enables clients to be directly connected with the Louis XIII Society online. There is only one registration ID for each decanter, which is also a means of ensuring that a particular decanter of Louis XIII is authentic. Louis XIII Society Louis XIII Cognac is bottled luxury and thus deserves its very own society. The Louis XIII Society private club offers not only special pre-releases of limited editions of Louis XIII, but also offers bespoke services such as customized decanter engraving and interaction with a Louis XIII Personal Advisor for private tastings and other unique experiences. Registration with this exclusive club also offers clients a chance to network with Louis XIII Cognac connoisseurs registered from all over the world. Members can also customize gift messages that will appear when the recipients scan their decanters. The Coffret The LOUIS XIII Classic decanter is beautifully presented in a signature red display case with contemporary design features, and retains the iconic red colour. The coffret of-
fers a new opening experience that recalls the moment in a gastronomic restaurant when the cloche is lifted to reveal the delights within. The coffret comes complete with an integrated mirror display to showcase the decanter at home, as well as a dedicated book to discover more about LOUIS XIII. Tasting & Serving As with the decanter, Sampling Louis XIII is an almost ritualistic experience. First, the glass. Best is to enjoy Louis XIII from special glasses designed to sound like the chime of church bells when clinked. But a small white wine glass will do just fine. Next - is patience! Pour in a little of the LOUIS XIII and leave it there for five minutes, for the cognac to take its space. The aromas will start to fill the room. Also - do not swirl — you are mixing everything and losing the complexity. And have it at room temperature. When you first lift a glass of Louis XIII cognac the nose may be candied fruits, plum jam, figs. It turns into something more creamy, caramel, or spices like nutmeg and pepper. It will always be different. Finally, enjoy! Just one drop on the lips before the first sip, otherwise it may be too powerful. You will prepare the palate. Finally, the first sip. A ‘magical firework of flavours and aromas’ as the House describes it. Flavours of honeysuckle, leather, cigar box, figs, plums,
dried roses and passionfruit. A long finish with some smokiness at the end. Pairing The House recommends pairing it with either caviar or wafer-thin bellota ham shavings. It was an exceptional experience and we can only encourage you to join a Louis XIII tasting should it become available. Please enjoy the video on how the precious decanter is made.
WATCH THE
VIDEO
For more information about Louis XIII, please contact national brand ambassador, Chen Wei Lee ChenWei.LEE@louisxiii-cognac.com
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“A truly incomparable dynamic range.”
– Rachel Chien
S H O W C A S E P I A N O S . C O M
“IF YOU THINK CHOCOLATE AND ROSES ARE GOOD ENOUGH, THINK AGAIN !”
W
WHAT WOMEN WANT...
by Natalie Langston www.natalielangston.com
IT’S SPRING!
Spring travel plans may have been postponed yet again, but there’s no shortage of ways to spoil your woman right where you are. Spring is the perfect time to reinvent yourself, and after the year we’ve all had, a little injection of glamour goes a long way. Having those key pieces to look forward to makes the season all that more exciting, and these wardrobe staples are classic investment pieces. Bright colours paired back to easy neutrals will be a huge trend as the world starts to open up and we embrace dressing up for each other again. I’ve rounded up my favourite Spring picks that cover off all the bases — just what every woman needs right now!
NOBIS POPPY TRENCH IN CORK The Nobis Poppy Trench is a must-have for Spring. It hits all the right notes when it comes to a timeless trench silhouette and elevates any look. What sets it apart from other fashion trenches is the unique waterproof finish and taped seams — all the hollywood glamour of a cotton trench with all the weatherproofing of technical outerwear. Because this is such a neutral piece, your cutie can have some fun with it and pair it back to pops of pink or yellow. $750 CAD Available at www.Nobis.com
ALICE + OLIVIA TOP Now for that pop of colour I promised. This bright pink satin blouse is sure to brighten up any day and is just what we all need coming out of the dreary winter days. The subtle ruffles are trending this season and give this classic blouse an updated twist. Have your sweetheart pair it back to her trench and jeans for an everyday Spring look that’s ready for whatever the day throws her way. Brayden Ruffle Long Sleeve Satin Blouse Colour: Cal Pink $430 CAD Available at Nordstrom & www.Nordstrom.ca
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DIAMOND HOOP EARRINGS Diamonds are a girl’s best friend, so why not gift her a BFF she’ll have forever?! These white gold Birks diamond hoop earrings are a timeless gift fit for your queen and will show her how much you truly care. There’s something about the subtle statement a diamond hoop makes — it’s completely irresistible! Medium Diamond Hoop Earrings. White Gold. $3,650 CAD. Maison Birks Boutiques
DIVINE BEDDING BY ST. GENEVE Not just for breakfast in bed! We spend the majority of our time in the bedroom, so it is important to make it a beautiful and tranquil place, a sanctuary away from the cares of the day. So pamper yourself with a St Genève hand-crafted collection. What began as a small Canadian family business is now a world-renowned manufacturer of luxury bed linens and superb down products, using only the highest quality fabrics woven by specialty mills in Italy and Germany. Visit their official website to find a boutique near you. www.StGeneve.com
CELINE SUNGLASSES A new pair of shades are always at the top of my list, year-round. These Celine Sunglasses are so retro chic and make me think of the 70s, wearing a vintage Halston dress by the pool for cocktail hour. The shape is exaggerated, but the neutral colour palette makes them flattering for any skin tone and a perfect match for any outfit. 60mm Gradient Geometric Sunglasses. Transparent Clear/Brown. $400 USD. www.Nordstrom.ca
FRAME JEANS I’ve been a huge fan of Frame jeans for as long as I can remember. They’re the perfect blend of soft-stretchy comfort and that tailored vintage look we’re all after. These light wash jeans are the ultimate Spring pant and look just as great with a heel as they do with a sneaker or flat sandal. Not to mention they’re super flattering and will make her butt look amazing! Le Sylvie High Waist Raw Hem Crop Jeans Colour: Overturn $300 CAD Available at Nordstrom & www.Nordstrom.ca
ZIMMERMANN DRESS One word for this Zimmermann dress...obsessed! This feminine dress is so effortless in every sense of the word. It can be paired-back and casual with cowboy boots or sneakers or worn with a slinky pair of heels for your next date night. Ces’t chic! Botanica Long Sleeve Midi Silk Dress Colour: Pandanus $1,350 USD Available at Nordstrom & www.Nordstrom.ca
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CITY tonight!
O ur
by Jim Gordon & Leeta Liepins
For Opening Hours, Please Visit The Website Or Call The Restaurant
The Iconic Concierge Magazine version of the weekly TV show, “Our City Tonight”, which can be seen Sundays at 10:30pm on CHEK TV. You can follow them on Instagram, Facebook Twitter & YouTube @ourcitytonight
ANCORA WATERFRONT DINING AND PATIO
1600 HOWE STREET, VANCOUVER
|
604-681-1164
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www.AncoraDining.com
FOR THOSE OF US living in Vancouver and the Lower Mainland, we are fortunate to enjoy the longest patio season in Canada. Case in point – Our City Tonight recently took in an early April, post-work happy hour at Ancora Waterfront Dining and Patio. As we prepared this latest “Our City Tonight” column, Vancouver was in the early stages of an April semi-lockdown, leaving diners with takeout or patio dining only options. Which brings us back to that post-work night on Ancora’s beautiful, spacious patio nestled beside the seawall overlooking False Creek and across the water from scenic Granville Island. We settled into a nice table that was spaced safely and appropriately from other tables surrounded by beautiful, flowering cherry trees. We had filmed our TV show restaurant segment at this wonderful restaurant last November and had the opportunity to interview their superb Executive Chef, Sebastián Delgado Sánchez, who joined Ancora three years ago. We sampled his creative menu, a fusion of Japanese and Peruvian cultures. Chef hails from Peru and has a passion for bringing that culinary history to his dishes adding something fresh and new to each. Though we had dined at Ancora previously on many occa-
BEN HOWARD
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ICONIC CONCIERGE
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sions over the years, this was our first time on the patio this early in Spring and it was our most recent sampling of the updated Happy Hour menu. For our starter cocktail, we were presented with a Peruvian classic known as the Pisco Sour, a delightful combination of pisco (a brandy produced in Peru and Chile), citrus, simple syrup and egg white. This was followed by a glass of La Pieve Pergola prosecco (Leeta) and a glass of their Mission Hill rosé, (Jim). Both of these are very reasonably priced (and with wine you also have a good house red/white from which to choose). We have discussed this important point in past columns that every restaurant offering Happy Hour should have an attractive selection of wine and cocktails as well as snacks. Ancora offers a great selection and also offers a rotating selection of excellent local craft beer. Another one of Ancora’s main attractions is their celebrated Sushi Chef, Yoshihiro Tabo, a man who has spent a lifetime perfecting the art of sushi. He has a large following and many industry kudos to prove his success. Our first course was an order of Spicy Tuna and Tempura Prawn rolls, with both rolls benefitting from just the right amount of spicy mayonnaise.
For our last selection, we chose the perfect menu item for two: “Ancora Glacier”, a great selection of freshly shucked oysters, ceviche mixto (a house specialty), poached prawns, a selection of sashimi, tuna tartare, Dungeness crab causas, and mussels a la chalaca. Ancora Waterfront Dining and Patio remains iconic not just for its sensational waterfront location but also for its consistently superb and innovative cuisine.
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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
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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
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