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PORSCHE PORSCHECENTRE CENTREVANCOUVER VANCOUVER
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publisher’s LETTER
a busy season! welcome, all! and we’re happy to say it’s summer! finally, right? we have been waiting for those dark blue skies way too long .. and once we have the warm and sunny days they just go by way too fast. so enjoy! we have been very busy over the last few weeks, and it will probably stay like that for a while. there are many events coming up where we will promote the magazine, and we are also planning to travel a bit. yes, again. although it will be hard to beat our last epic journey to scotland. it was ... just fantastic. you can read the whole story (well, most of it) in this edition. our watch aficionados .. which is pretty much all of us .. will love our article about the history of panerai. although the watches have only been in the spotlight for a bit more than 20 years, there is a really rich and interesting history behind the brand. do you know why some vintage panerais have a rolex crown or even a rolex dial? we do. and we’re happy to tell you the story of how that happened.
olaf robrecht publisher olaf@iconic-concierge.com
and what about cars? you love a fast car, especially a porsche 911 - but the gf or wife simply brings too much luggage on a trip (or is it you?), or the family is growing (in that case, congrats!)? don’t worry, there is a solution. it is called panamera. but - which one? the regular sedan, or the new sport turismo (wagon or hatchback just doesn’t sound right...). we’ll tell you what we think but if you’re thinking cars are a little too pedestrian, well...why not go to space? we have the details on that in this edition as well. have a great summer, everyone!
what else? ... Have you been to Victoria lately? No? Next time swing by the new Victoria International Marina. Or ExecuJet. Or the lounge at VI Helicopters. Or a few other places where you will now find Iconic Concierge! Yes, we are spreading “the good word.” We always try to promote the magazine, and thus our clients, as much as possible. Several cars in the Diamond Rally sported our logo, we had pop-ups at events, and the whole Victoria Int. Marina is currently covered in our logo! You will see us at some of the most popular events this summer - so come by and say hello and grab the new edition. We love to chat and listen to your ideas about what should be (or should not be) in the next magazine.
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DUSTIN JOHNSON GOLF'S WORLD NUMBER 1
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Big Bang Unico Golf. Very light texalium case. UNICO column-wheel chronograph, equipped with a unique additional mechanism dedicated to golf scoring. Leather strap stitched on rubber.
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ICONIC CONCIERGE
vol. 9 [2018]
www.iconic-concierge.com
On the cover: QingXiang Guo photography by Dave Hamilton
MEN ARE BORN HANDSOME,
PUBLISHER:
OLAF ROBRECHT olaf@iconic-concierge.com
AUTOMOTIVE EDITOR:
ROBBIE DICKSON
FASHION EDITOR:
JASON SARAI
LIFESTYLE EDITOR:
NATALIE LANGSTON
HEALTH & FITNESS EDITOR: CONTRIBUTING WRITERS:
PHOTOGRAPHY: COPY EDITOR: DESIGN/ LAYOUT: ADVERTISING SALES:
OLIVER FINLAY JASON BOUDREAU, KEITH TRUSLER, AMANDA WOOD, JESSE DEAN COOK, JIM GORDON, JASON SARAI, DR. CHRISTIAN BRIX DAVE HAMILTON, TODD DUNCAN, KEVIN UY MIKE STRAUS YADA-YADA MEDIA please contact iconicconciergemagazine@gmail.com
iconic_concierge Iconic Concierge is published by
Printed in Canada.
GROOMING SUPPLIES + BARBERSHOPS barberandco.com
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ICONIC CONCIERGE
barberandco
All rights reserved. No part of Iconic Concierge Magazine may be reproduced or transmitted in any form without the expressed written consent of the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject any editorial or advertising material. The views expressed in Iconic Concierge are those of the respective contributors and not necessarily those of the publisher or staff. Although all reasonable attempts are made to ensure accuracy, the publishers do not assume any liability for errors or omissions anywhere in the publication or on the website. Iconic Concierge reserves the rights to ads produced for advertisers.
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dreamT E A M
OLAF ROBRECHT publisher
An entrepreneur who is always on the lookout for new projects he is passionate about, Olaf has run several businesses since he came to Canada 18 years ago. These days you will find lifestyle and car magazines as well as a design & marketing company connected to his name, although he might be better known for his little collection of spirited automobiles.
ROBBIE DICKSON chief gear head
Born in England, Robbie is a selfstyled entrepreneur with a passion for exotic cars, boats and watches. He owned pretty much every car you can imagine although he still calls a Lotus Elise he once owned his favourite. Tracked extensively, Robbie claims it was “the most affordable fun you can have with your clothes on ...”
JASON SARAI
bespoke stylist & fashion editor When Jason found the world of bespoke suiting and styling, he had little choice but to turn it from a passion project into his life’s work with Style by Sarai. He has gone from being fashion advisor for family and friends, to the trusted bespoke stylist for professionals and grooms-to-be, by enhancing their confidence and helping them become their own style icon.
CRAIG STOWE luxury events
Craig is recognized as Vancouver’s #1 creator and producer of luxury events bringing together affluent buyers and sellers of luxury brands in an engaging business social event setting. He is the President of Luxury Alliance Group, Luxury & Supercar Weekend, Porsche Rally, Hublot Diamond Rally and VP of Partnerships for Pacific Polo Cup.
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NATALIE LANGSTON
AMANDA WOOD
lifestyle editor
creative muse
Natalie is an accomplished Canadian TV Host and Lifestyle Expert for Global BC, Breakfast Television + JRfm. Fitness & Health Reporter for BC Living. Freelance journalist and Emcee with a passion for all things Fitness, Fashion and Fun. Volunteer and Spokesperson for Dress for Success Vancouver, member of Ladies Who Lunch Global Network for female entrepreneurs and Style Ambassador for the Canadian Arts and Fashion Awards.
Amanda Wood is a professional jazz and pop singer, social influencer and real estate assistant to Jesse Dean Cook. She is soulful, sexy and sophisticated with a passion for travel and living life to the fullest. Amanda contributes to Iconic Concierge in many forms from writing, editing, modeling and general creative input.
JESSE DEAN COOK
JASON BOUDREAU CFP, CLU
luxury real estate specialist
wealth advisor
Having worked as a Global Executive for a multi-billion dollar corporation, Jesse has a decade of international business experience and is now one of the top luxury real estate agents based in West Vancouver. He truly cherishes the relationship he has with his clients, helping them navigate the process of selling and buying their spectacular residential properties.
As the founder of VELA Wealth, Jason is fuelled by watching clients fulfill their vision of life success for their family, community and legacy. Focusing on inter-generational wealth transfer, life insurance, legacy and estate planning, he advises successful entrepreneurial families on how to make meaningful choices at the intersection of their life and their wealth.
KEITH TRUSLER
BARRY McNABB
imbibing authority
wine expert
The Brand Ambassador for The Glenlivet and Aberlour for several years now, Keith is a veteran of the restaurant industry in Vancouver and has extensive experience as a bartender, mixologist and chef. As a Connoisseur of single malt whisky he tirelessly pursues the finest dining and imbibing experiences the city has to offer.
It was a bottle of 1989 Robert Mondavi Reserve Cabernet that changed his life. That was in 1990. The addiction to wine was set. And the journey to know everything and anything about wine. Today, after many travels to all notable wine regions in the world, Barry has a broad knowledge of the nuanced interplay between food and wine.
sport, health & fitness
OLIVER FINLAY
JIM GORDON LEETA LIEPINS
Having traveled the globe, working with pro teams & athletes in sports environments as diverse as F1, EPL soccer, NHL & ATP tennis, to attain peak performance, Oliver arrived in Vancouver for his PhD, exploring how the World’s best sports teams manage change initiatives. Passionate about human performance & sport’s impact on community, he highlights the industry’s latest & greatest developments.
They are the hosts of the weekly, national TV show “Our City Tonight”, covering Vancouver’s entertainment, fashion, nightlife, food & wine events, interesting people and exciting places. Jim is also the co-host/producer of “The Travel Guys”TV show and a film/ TV critic. Leeta is also a columnist for several other publications.
city experts
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CONTENTS COVER
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The Pursuit of Passion QingXiang Guo
66
The Quintessential Grand Tourer Bentley Continental GT
COLUMNS
8
Publisher’s Letter
22
The Specter Journal You Want This!
54
The Dapper Gent The Right Scent For You
56
Arts & Music
Vancouver’s Art Scene - Review
60
The Gentleman
They Should Have Taught You This In School
33
Financials
Grounding Your Network
70
Head2Head
Size DOES Matter!
100
What Women Want
Forget Chocolate and Roses!
104
Real Estate
What’s Really going on in Vancouver’s Luxury Housing Market?
106
FEATURES
AUTOMOTIVE
28
18
OFFICINE PANERAI
The Morgan EV3
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64
Jaquet Droz
The Ultimate Charity Challenge
34
66
MusicMachine 3
Bentley Continental GT
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70
The Ultimate Trip to Scotland
Size DOES Matter!
Art In Motion
The Signing Machine
The Force is With You
Men in Skirts
48
Back to the Future
Hublot Diamond Rally 2018
The Quintessential Grand Tourer
Head2Head
James Bond does not take Selfies
PERSONALITIES
52
24
Pitti Uomo 94
The Pursuit of Passion
Stylish Cameras
Men of Style
64
Hublot Diamond Rally 2018 The Ultimate Charity Challenge
74
A Space Odyssey Want to go to Space?
90
The Need for Speed
The Fastest Production eBikes
92
QingXiang Guo
80
Abdul Ladha
Kids Can Cook Gourmet
86
Michael Mee
The Next Generation
97
Jill Sinclair
Author, Talk Show Host, Business Coach
Stretch your Mind!
Take Control of your Mind, Body & Soul
EVENTS
108
20
A Porsche for the Ocean The Dynamiq GTT115 Hybrid
DESTINATIONS
36
Diamond Rally Wrap Party
46
Ride & Drive Gala
58
Stefano Bemer X Style by Sarai
Vancouver Dream Estates
84
112
110
Real Estate
Our City Tonight Torafuku
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/ summer 2018 /
ICONIC CONCIERGE
Men in Skirts
The Ultimate Trip to Scotland
Spark Gala
Canada Day Victoria
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CONTENTS
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66
74
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“What if an all-electric vehicle was bespoke-made, hand crafted ... and exhilarating to drive?” This is the Morgan EV3. Basically the three-wheeler ‘car’ that automotive enthusiasts know and adore. Only this time - it’s electric! And that in itself is kind of brilliant, taking design inspiration from the 1930s and 1950s and propulsion inspiration from the future. Yep, Morgan is doing it, and we love it! “The EV3 embraces new technology, delivers responsible driving excitement and continues to celebrate traditional British craftsmanship.” Following a soft launch of the Phase 1 concept EV3 in 2015, Morgan recently revealed the restyled body and interior. Weighing less than 500kg, the all-electric 3 Wheeler has a range of a bit more than 200 kms and accelerates in around 7 seconds from 0 to 100, with a top speed “in excess of 145 km/h.” Which doesn’t sound too exciting but don’t forget that it is very light so it’ll feel quite surreal. But it is more about the looks anyways. Taking inspiration from 1930’s aeroengine race cars, classic motorcycles and 1950’s fantasy automatons, the dramatic tail lift once seen on 1930’s Morgan 3 Wheeler race cars has been re-introduced, subsequently creating a visually forward stance. This is enhanced with low slung running lights that carry through the cylindrical form of the side pods. An entirely new dashboard arrangement features a classic ‘magneto’ switch for drive selection, a digital screen, wood, brass and polished aluminium. Production of the EV3 is due to begin in the third quarter of 2018 at Morgan’s Pickersleigh Road factory in Worcestershire, England. The price? Just over £30k or appr. C$52,000 (conversion rate at time of print).
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Back to the Future THE MORGAN EV3
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out & about DIAMOND RALLY WRAP PARTY HUBLOT VANCOUVER
The Diamond Rally Wrap Party took place on June 14th, a bit more than a month after the epic Charity Challenge saw 220 supercars make their way from Vancouver to Pemberton. All drivers and their copilots were invited to gather once more, relive the drive and the experience, watch the official videoclip and see winning pictures of the Diamond Rally Photography Awards. Hosted by the title sponsor’s Vancouver boutique on Alberni Street, it was also a chance to see the newest Hublot watches, including the very first smart watch of the brand, the Big Bang Referee 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia, which was worn by all match officials at the tournament and available to the public in a limited edition run of 2018. Needless to say - it was sold out in just days. The next Diamond Rally will take place on May 4th, 2019, and should you have missed this year’s tour, make sure to register for 2019. It is one of the best ways to enjoy your ride, raise funds and awareness for a charity of your choice, and to connect with other luxury and supercar aficionados. Registration will open soon. For more information visit www.diamondrally.com
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"The Fazioli is a very creative piano, it really lets you do all that your imagination wants to do. It has a huge range of colour, from the most powerful sounds to the most delicate sounds – which are all produced with great ease. It is my most precious possession!"
Angela Hewitt ~ Concert Pianist
W W W . S H O W C A S E P I A N O S . C O M
TAG HEUER CONNECTED MODULAR 45
AUDEZE LCDi4
You’d love to have a smart watch - but they are just not exclusive (read: expensive) enough for you? No more: Here it is, the world’s most fashionable, glamorous and high-priced smartwatch. Tag Heuer’s Connected Modular 45 model features an extravagant 18-karat white gold band, studded with nearly two dozen carats of baguettecut diamonds. Oh, right: Yes, it has a 1.4-inch touch screen and 4GB of storage. US$197,000.
Mini but mighty, the Audeze LCDi4 sound like no other inear or full-size headphones. Designed for those who don’t like in-ears, they rest just inside the ear canal, with a small over-ear “hook” clipped onto each earpiece, helping to keep them in place. The LCDi4 uses a unique and cool-looking honeycomb-inspired housing made of magnesium to reduce both weight - just 12 grams a side - and resonance. The LCDi4 delivers high-performance audiophile-grade sound you can take anywhere, Naturally, brilliant design and amazing sound doesn’t come cheap. At C$3,299.99, the LCDi4s might be the most you can spend on such a lightweight yet heavyhitting in-ear.
SAMUEL ADAMS UTOPIAS
RDI WATCH WINDER “SAFE LIFT”
The ultimate high-end watch winder for those who love mechanics in all their different forms, the Safe-Lift can house from 4 to 25 individual watchwinders in a safe that can be opened by remote control. A gold-plated gear train with bridges, like that in a watch, comes into action to raise the watch winders out of their housing behind palladium columns. US$157,000. www.rdi-watchwinders.ch
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If you have ever wondered why a beer can’t be a more luxurious drink, we have found the answer. Samuel Adams’ most deluxe beer, Utopias, which packs a whopping 28 percent alcohol content in a bottle that resembles the company’s giant brewing kettle, comes with a US$200 price tag per bottle. The beer’s flavor is “reminiscent of a rich vintage Port, old Cognac, or fine Sherry,” according to Samuel Adams. Good luck finding it - this brew is illegal in 15 states in the U.S. www.samueladams.com
OMEGA WRIST-CHRONOGRAPH LIMITED EDITION At the turn of the century, Omega produced its first wristwatch in 1900, and in 1913 it debuted its first chronograph for the wrist. And you can own this piece of watchmaking history! The Swiss watchmaker just unveiled the Wrist-Chronograph Limited Edition, a highly collectible series of 18 timepieces that house original chronograph movements from 1913. Actual archival movements that have been in Omega’s museum vaults for 105 years! The movements have been restored and fit into a 47.5 mm 18-karat white-gold case with an 18-karat Sedna gold crown and pusher. A hinged caseback reveals the interior of the movement. CHF 120,000 (appr. US$120,900). www.omegawatches.com
CHARLES HOLLANDER ROYAL DIAMOND CHESS SET This posh chess set is part of the Charles Hollander Collection, one of the most respected names in the diamond industry. Renowned French artist and master of jewellery Bernard Maquin, creator of the Royal Diamond Chess set, brings the game of chess to a whole new level. It is one of the most expensive chess sets in the world. Thirty craftsmen, spent over 4,500 hours creating this expensive chess set. The work is done all by hand using 1168.75 grams of 14 carat white gold and approximately 9,900 black and white diamonds, bringing the total weight to 186.09 carats. The price? US$500,000. And should your buddy already have one, don’t worry, there’s still the Jewel Royale Chess Set from Britain, valued at over £5m (US$9.8m). www.charleshollandercollection.com
www.sherpatv.com
ROYOLE MOON 3D CINEMA HEADSET Just recently named the winner of the prestigious German Design Award 2018 in the Entertainment Category, Royole Moon is designed and engineered for movies, gaming, and more, combining two Full-HD 1080p AMOLED displays at over 3000ppi resolution that simulate a giant and adjustable (up to 800”) curved screen with stereoscopic 3D, and active noise-cancelling headphones (which, together with the world’s first foldable design, makes it perfect on a plane). In addition, Royole offers owners of the Moon an opportunity to enjoy watching their favorite feature films through a new app called “Royole Lounge.” Available in three colours: black, white, and gold. US$799.99 www.royole.com
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QINGXIANG GUO
郭庆祥 T HE PURSUIT
OF
PASSION
“Vancouver is an exceptional city for cultivating great art.”
Q
QingXiang Guo is the art curator for the Dalian Wanda Group and a close personal friend of chairman Wang Jianlin, one of China’s wealthiest elites. 30 years ago, Guo started the Wanda Group art collection, following his passion in art. Today, more than 1,000 works of art collectively worth billions of dollars, has made the collection his legacy. Having a deep knowledge, experience, an understanding of the world of art, Mr Guo leads a team of professionals, travelling the world to assess, and consequently acquire, art for the company’s museum. Two of the more recent purchases include Monet’s ‘Bassin aux nymphéas, les rosiers’, which sold for more than $26 million, and the $28 million Picasso ‘Claude et Paloma’, which made headlines when he loaned it to the Vancouver Art Gallery in 2016. Passion drives Guo, and it is the kind and honest west coast Canadian culture that made him choose Vancouver as his home. We sat down with Mr Guo over a cup of tea - but not just any tea. Mr Guo graciously allowed us to sample an extremely rare 65-year-old tea he bought at an auction. While enjoying this unique beverage, we asked Mr Guo what he thinks about Vancouver and its art scene.
words by Eve Tang photography by Dave Hamilton clothing: Stefano Ricci watch: Vacheron Constantin location: The Heritage Suite at The Fairmont Hotel Vancouver
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IC: Mr Guo, you’ve lived in Vancouver since 2000. What initially attracted you to this city? GQX: Two generations of my family were born here - my son and my granddaughter. So my family was definitely the primary motivation for me to relocate to Vancouver. And I have to say that it was especially pleasant for me to discover that Vancouver is strikingly similar to my hometown, Dalian, in China. Dalian is a port city on the Liaodong Peninsula, at the southern tip of the Liaoning Province. Having grown up by the sea, I am familiar with and appreciative of the diversity of the seasons, the great air quality, and a lifestyle that puts you in touch with beautiful natural surroundings. IC: You’re regarded as a renowned art collector in China. Do you have any plans for Vancouver and its citizens? Maybe connecting Asian and Western art? GQX: Vancouver is an exceptional city in so many ways, and yes, especially for cultivating great art. You have to see it through my eyes: The kind and honest west coast Canadian culture has created a haven for me to feel comfortable collecting and expanding artworks of great value. There is also another important factor: The city’s temperate climate also lends itself to preserving these remarkable works. And to answer your question: yes, I have some ideas. I would love to open a small private art gallery, hopefully in the near future. It has always been my vision and my belief that art is for the general public, not just for personal use. It should be shared. IC: When you compare Vancouver’s art scene to other parts of the world, what are the differences you see between artists and art styles?
I enjoy visiting galleries and art studios in Vancouver, but what I enjoy more is the artistic spirit present in the smaller communities surrounding Vancouver and extending throughout the coastal islands. It is remarkably refreshing to see the freedom and creativity in the art produced by the many retirees that flock to these regions. IC: What do you think about Vancouver becoming a very cosmopolitan city, with more and more luxury brands opening stores in the downtown area? GQX: I think we all have noticed in recent years that Vancouver’s economy has grown exponentially, especially in regards to luxury brands. I myself must say that I like to see this, as I am very passionate about fashion. My favourite brand right now is Stefano Ricci, although I am also interested in Brioni and Kiton. But I also know that it is a difficult task to establish a brand. The pricing of these goods does not necessarily reflect the success of a clothing brand. For a luxury clothing brand to become successful, it needs quality material, a skilled designer, and excellent craftsmanship. IC: We know that you enjoy music. Would you say that Vancouver’s music scene is equivalent to other big cities? GQX: Music plays an important role in the culture of any metropolitan environment. Music evokes the most intense, raw and vicarious feelings, and in essence, music is a natural form of the abstract. To appreciate it, we must be open-minded. The people here in Vancouver are invested in music. I’ve noticed that Vancouverites appreciate music on a different level, because brands like Fazioli support the local music scene. I am a big fan of the brand, and I consider myself fortunate to own a very unique masterpiece of theirs. I believe that it’s commendable to invest time and effort into understanding and appreciating any art form, because it results in genuine happiness. The city of Vancouver is a vibrant and progressive one, and one that readily embraces culture, music, and nature. I think we all recognize that we have a responsibility to treat each other with respect and to support each other’s future success. Vancouverites seem to understand that work is about striving for the highest possible quality of life. The people here understand that we don’t live to work, we work so we can live. IC: In your spare time, what else do you enjoy doing in Vancouver?
GQX: I’ve noticed that in Vancouver, the locals enjoy participating in art classes, and that this passion for art is present in multiple generations, from young children to retirees. Despite many of the subjects being quite traditional such as trees, flowers, and landscapes, British Colombians bring a fresh and unique perspective void of any inhibitions. IC: What about the local cultural environment? Does it provide a good base for building a private art gallery? GQX: Vancouver is a very inclusive city, one that is accepting of various cultures regardless of political affiliation, social standing, or race. The ideal art gallery, in my opinion, should be diverse. It should exhibit not just one art style, for instance, traditional Chinese art, but rather, it should include a kaleidoscope of styles such as impressionistic paintings, avant-garde, and abstract. It should create a thoughtful and inspiring environment.
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GQX: I love to walk through the local parks. Stanley Park, Queen Elizabeth Park, and the various provincial parks in the surrounding areas. I particularly enjoy watching the clouds in Vancouver. If you watch carefully, you’ll see that the clouds themselves are a form of abstract art, one that is always changing. IC: Thank you for this interview, Mr Guo, it is always an honour to spend time with you!
Mr Guo about his outfit for this photoshoot: “A vacation by the sea was the inspiration for this outfit. Imagine the blue sky, royal blue sea, and the white sand being washed by the waves. Now, any designer needs to understand the client’s character, external image, and inner thoughts. And in this case, Stefano Ricci did just that with this customized outfit.”
From our hearts... rough our hands... To your happiness. Each Clase Azul piece, hand-made and hand-painted, is literally touched by the human spirit, inspired by traditional Mexican values.
ART IN MOTION
OFFICINE PANERAI
I
taly’s history is filled with architecture, art, and innovation. The country is known for passion, beauty, and romance. And then there are the Swiss, world-renowned for their watchmaking skills. A Swissmade watch is the pinnacle of quality, and is in itself a piece of history. This assembly of fine-tuned wheels and springs, the technical beauty and the genius of the complication, is its own work of art.
When you marry both of these, Italian passion and Swiss precision, the result is one unique brand: Officine Panerai. The 1928 Ref. 2081 with a Rolex Oyster Dial
We’ve been Officine Panerai fans for quite some time, and we recently had the pleasure to visit the original watchmaker’s shop on Ponte alle Grazie in Florence. Now, we have our very own Panerai Boutique right here in Vancouver. Time to have a look at the rich history of this brand.
1860 - HUMBLE BEGINNINGS The company known today as Officine Panerai was established in Florence when Giovanni Panerai opened his watchmaker’s shop on Ponte alle Grazie. Serving not only as a shop and workshop but also as the city’s first watchmaking school, Officine Panerai’s history begins here. Panerai’s
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shop later moved to its current location in the Palazzo Arcivescovile in Piazza San Giovanni, changing its name to “Orologeria Svizzera” at the beginning of the twentieth century, making it an influential point of sale for Swiss watches. Leon Francesco joined his father in the company a few years later, when they started to work with recognized watch industry leaders from Switzerland to establish supplier ties that became the basis for the Italian firm’s sales growth and eventual watch production model. Panerai sourced movements, cases, parts, and entire watches from several Swiss companies as needed. 1916 - IN THE NAVY By the turn of the twentieth century, Giovanni’s grandson, Guido, had established “Guido Panerai & Figlio”, the then-new name of the company, as an official supplier to the the Royal Italian Navy. They had already been supplying the Navy with
high-precision instruments for a number of years, and it was because of the Navy’s unique needs that Officine Panerai created Radiomir. A radium-based powder, it would give luminosity to the dials of sighting instruments and devices. The substance’s high visibility and excellent underwater adhesive qualities immediately made the radium paste a key element in Officine Panerai’s production. The Radiomir patent was the first of many patents Panerai would file, marking the brand as a key innovator in the watch industry. It was around this time that Rolex, one of Panerai’s Swiss manufacturing partners, was making its name in the waterproof watch sector. Rolex’s 1926 development of the Oyster case became a defining moment in the history of the watch industry, making waterproof watches possible for consumer pocket and wrist models.
It would also create a new sales proposition for the Italian military, where the combination of Radiomir and the Rolex Oyster would give the Navy’s combat swimmers the first-ever waterproof timepieces. 1936 - THE BIRTH OF “3646” - RADIOMIR On the eve of the Second World War, Panerai created the first prototypes of the model now known as “Radiomir” for the frogman commandos of the First Submarine Group Command of the Royal Italian Navy. Today’s Radiomir retains many of the original prototype’s features: a large, cushion-shaped steel case (47mm), luminescent numerals and indices, wire lugs welded to the case, a hand-wound mechanical movement, and a waterresistant strap long enough to be worn over a diving suit. The Navy’s historical archives record that just ten prototypes were produced. The first production models of the Radiomir
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its glowing dial paint. A new self-luminous substance, Luminor (protected by a patent filed on 11 January 1949), replaced the radium-based paste. The name would also be the inspiration for Officine Panerai’s other historical model that follows the Radiomir - the Luminor.
The Evolution of the Cushion Case
1936 prototype came into being in 1938. In order to implement the functions of the prototype, Officine Panerai made a number of changes and started producing a new Radiomir model with overlapping plates for the dial, the upper part having perforated indices and numerals so as to make the radium paint more readable and luminescent; the wire lugs were made more resistant, comprising a metal bar folded at both ends and welded to the case middle. A further innovation that improved underwater visibility related to the numbering of the dial, which had just 4 large Arabic numerals at the cardinal points and a series of indices, hour and minute hands, but without a small seconds hand. Between 1936 and 1938, Panerai’s model 3646 formed the backbone of the brand’s deliveries to the Italian Navy. Rolex would assemble the watches, at which point they were delivered to Panerai’s Italy office for modification to suit the military’s requirements.
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combat heritage were forged. All personnel of the Italian amphibious commandos, having been consolidated under the unit banner “Decima Flottiglia Mezzi d’Assalto,” went to war equipped with Panerai watches and instruments. Even the German navy adopted the Panerai, dubbed the “Kampfschwimmer,” as the timekeeper of choice for its own elite amphibious units. 1943 - THE MARE NOSTRUM In 1943, Officine Panerai unveiled the prototype of a two-counter chronograph specifically designed for deck officers. Dubbed the Mare Nostrum, the chronograph set the stage for the brand’s eventual civilian debut. It is thought that the original production run consisted of only two or three of these watches, and all that remains of them are some photographs and a single model discovered in 2005. It was around the same time that the company made efforts to improve upon the in-and-out wear vulnerability of the screwdown crown, which led to a sort of steel
1950 - THE LUMINOR As the Second World War drew to a close, Panerai continued the technical research that it had begun at the start of the war, culminating in the development of the Luminor. This watch, characterized by the crown-protecting bridge and featuring
1955 Panerai Ref. 6152-1, with Rolex Brevet crown
reinforced wire lugs created from the same block of steel as the cushion-shaped case, was designed with a flat, wider bezel. Nowadays the models with this case are known as the Luminor 1950.
1940 - WAR TIMES In 1940, the Royal Navy’s requirements became even more specific: the watches had to endure extreme underwater conditions for longer periods of time, and their ability to withstand high pressure had to be guaranteed. Panerai decided to make the lugs from the same block of steel as the case for better underwater resistance.
1956 marked the end of Panerai’s manufacturing arrangement with Rolex. It was then that the company’s instrument arm entered a period of decline lasting until 1972. That year, Giuseppe Panerai, Guido’s son and the family scion who oversaw nearly the entire tactical watch program, died - and the former Italian naval officer and engineer, Dino Zei, became the first non-Panerai to lead the company since its 1860 inception.
Some of today’s models bearing the “Radiomir 1940” name have The Mare Nostrum a cushion-shaped case made with edges that are more pronounced on the half-moon designed to prevent infiltrations sides, a general reshaping of the individual of water into the case and to protect the parts and a cylindrical, tubular rather than crown seal from the stresses of winding. conical, winding crown. The Radiomir 1940 This practical locking mechanism would Special Edition models presented at the become the company’s most iconic design Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie element. 2012 draw inspiration from these features. In the wake of the war and with a growing World War II was the crucible in which awareness of gamma radiation’s health Panerai watches’ military legacy and impact, Panerai also moved to reformulate
1972 - A YEAR OF TRANSITION In 1972, Dino Zei changed the company name from “G.Panerai & Figlio” to “Officine Panerai S.r.L.”, the name that had appeared on the very first models. Until the early 1990s, Zei directed the company to focus on compasses and wrist depth gauges, as well as pressure compensation underwater torches providing greater resistance in the depths of the sea. With the exception of a few titanium dive prototypes, watchmaking activities effectively ceased.
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Arnold Schwarzenegger, immensely helped the company’s public profile and created a resurgence in consumer demand.
Sylvester Stallone giving his friend Arnold Schwarzenegger a Sly Tech Panerai. 1996.
1993 - THE FIRST OFFICINE PANERAI COLLECTION 1993 marked the dawn of the modern era for Officine Panerai. The company presented the first branded consumer watches in the firm’s 133-year history with a collection of three series of limited-edition watches: the Luminor, the Luminor Marina, and the Mare Nostrum. The new Mare Nostrum drew inspiration from its historical model, and the presentation of the collection took place in September 1993 on the Italian Navy cruiser “Durand De La Penne”. While collectors and enthusiasts loved the original 1943 Mare Nostrum, the public’s initial reaction to the 1993 collection was tepid, and Panerai’s debut struggled to attract early adopters. Panerai found a creative and brilliant solution in unpaid endorsements. Actor Sylvester Stallone discovered the brand while filming Daylight in Rome. Stallone purchased a Luminor Marina and wore it on camera. Stallone would later place a series of mass orders for custom “Slytech”branded Luminors. Multiple unsponsored film appearances and sightings on the wrists of Stallone associates, including
1997 - RICHEMONT GROUP In 1997 the Richemont Group (then Vendôme Group) acquired Officine Panerai and subsequently opened a select distribution network in Italy. From an initial 1993-1997 pre-Vendome consumer run estimated at less than 2,000 watches, Richemont accelerated Panerai production to over 70,000 annual units by 2013. THE 2000s In 2001, Panerai’s historic boutique reopened, becoming a meeting point for brand collectors and enthusiasts, where one can find not only pieces from the current collection, but also special edition watches and special productions that Panerai reserves exclusively for its boutiques. In 2002, the Panerai Manufacture in Neuchâtel, Switzerland, opened its doors, bringing fine Swiss watchmaking, exclusive design, and know-how together in a single location. Officine Panerai also opened up to the Orient with its first Asian boutique, located in the prestigious Landmark Prince’s Building in Hong Kong. In 2005, Officine Panerai launched its first in-house movement, the P.2002: a handwound calibre with GMT function and an eight-day power reserve. The calibre takes its name from the year in which Officine Panerai inaugurated its production plant. Over the next few years, more in-house movements were developed, such as the P.2003, the P.2004, and the innovative P.2005 with its elegant tourbillon. The P.9000 and P.2006 movements followed in 2008. Another milestone was the P.9100 calibre, the first Panerai automatic movement with chronograph flyback function, as well as the sophisticated P.9100/R with regatta countdown and the P.5000, a new hand-wound calibre with eight days power reserve. Panerai has introduced several limited edition runs in the last couple of years, including the Luminor The 2018 Panerai L’Astronomo Luminor 1950 Tourbillon Moon Phases Equation of Time GMT
Only 10.5 millimeters thick! The Panerai Luminor Due 3 Days PAM676 with the in-house P.1000 movement
Submersible 1950 3 Days Automatic Bronzo, a watch with a look that gains charm as it ages and is evocative of the sea world to which Officine Panerai is historically linked. Today, Panerai is fully established in the luxury world, offering a full line of watches based in varying degrees on its historic models. With the Luminor and Radiomir as the core models for each variant, Panerai has expanded its product scope to encompass precious metals, high horology complications, and case sizes that have ranged all the way up to 60mm.
2018 Panerai Luminor Due 3 Days Automatic Acciaio – 38mm PAM00755/ 00756/ 00903
While Officine Panerai has clearly placed emphasis on volumes and distribution networks, the brand’s history – and the manner in which its watches embody that history – is what gives its watches their trademark appeal.
PANERAI VANCOUVER 1008 Alberni Street Vancouver (604) 207-5528
www.panerai.com
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THE SIGNING MACHINE BY JAQUET DROZ
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Unveiled for the brand’s 280th anniversary, this exquisitely baroque gadget is essentially a little cartridge full of clockwork. A masterpiece that was completed after four years of development, and presented at this year’s Baselworld, it continues the centuries-old tradition of mechanical astonishment begun by its founder in 1738. Pierre Jaquet-Droz was known to blend the worlds of fine watchmaking, the arts, and automatons, and as such, the revelation of “The Signing Machine” is a milestone and a legacy, and part of the brand’s 280th anniversary celebrations. It is the subject of two patent applications and takes inspiration from both The Writer and The Draughtsman, two human-shaped robots made by Droz that could draw and write, currently on display at the Neuchâtel Museum of Art and History. The Signing Machine was highly anticipated by collectors worldwide, who were treated to a first glimpse in the very early days of development in 2014. The automaton’s movement has been reworked for fluidity,
carrying out more consistent signatures. With a new power reserve display, the machine can complete two full signatures before having to be wound by a lever located on its side. In total, 585 parts operate within an extremely complex mechanism that is entirely assembled and finished by hand. The programming of the signature – or the mechanical coding of its imprint over three cams – is also carried out entirely by hand. The signature reproduced by the Machine is unique and personal. It can only be activated by unlocking a 4-digit code chosen by the owner. The piece, polished and satin-finished, with individual handengraved decorations chosen by the owner, has been designed to be portable and will come with a luxurious leather pouch. The price starts at US$367,500, depending on the length and complexity of your signature. www.jaquet-droz.com
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The Force is With You! - A TIE Fighter-Inspired 10th Anniversary Music Machine MM3 may appear to come from a galaxy far, far away; however, its origins are much closer to home. MusicMachine 3 features all of the traditional elements of a beautifully arranged, high-end mechanical music box. This should come as no surprise as it was developed and crafted according to MB&F’s design by Reuge, the Swiss music box manufacturer with 150 years of expertise and experience. MB&F celebrated its tenth anniversary in 2015 with this amazing masterpiece, which completes the MusicMachine trilogy, and we just recently had the chance to see one of only 99 made here in Vancouver. The music in MusicMachine 3 is powered by two independent movements mounted on the two tail sections. Each movement has its own winding key (disguised as thrusters), a mainspring barrel, horizontal cylinder with pins, and comb with hand-tuned teeth sounding each note. The cylinders play three melodies each: the theme tunes from Star Wars, Mission Impossible, and James Bond on the right and The Godfather, Merry Christmas Mr. Lawrence, and The Persuaders on the left. An air regulator in the form of a circular fan (resembling a rotating radar dish) governs the unwinding speed/music tempo of each cylinder. To ensure the lateral symmetry of MM3, Reuge broke with music box convention to configure the two movements as mirror images of one another. This required a complete inversion of the design of the movement components and architecture so that one cylinder rotates clockwise and the other anticlockwise. MusicMachine 3 doesn’t just look as though it has flown in from a more advanced civilisation, it sounds like it as well. The majority of music boxes amplify sound through their wooden cases, much like guitars and violins do. MM3 is carefully designed to transmit the musical vibrations from the combs down through the two vertical side wings to its resonance base. This natural timber amplifier was developed by Jeanmichel Capt of JMC Lutherie, based in the Vallée de Joux, in the heart of Switzerland’s horological landscape.
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WINTON CASTLE, Pencaitland, Tranent
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THE ULTIMATE TRIP TO SCOTLAND
MEN IN SKIRTS words: Olaf Robrecht
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We loved the Skybar on Hong Kong Airlines. So much that we took over!
O
The majestic Borthwick Castle in North Middleton, Gorebridge
“Is there anything worn under the kilt? No, it’s all in perfect working order.” -- Spike Milligan
“Ok, let’s do it! But I am not going to wear those skirts!” Just a few weeks later some Vancouverites, including myself, hit the nightclubs in Edinburgh, wearing…skirts. Sorry - kilts.
But let’s start from the beginning. The idea to visit Scotland must have come up late last year. Oliver Finlay and I were sitting at a bar, discussing the content for upcoming editions, when he complained that he has not been asked to come along on one of our epic trips. So I challenged him to create the ultimate experience ... and he immediately said, “Scotland”. Let’s be honest, I was thinking more along the lines of beaches, or the metropolitan cities of the world, but Scotland? “Mate, it will be epic,” and then he started painting the picture. And I liked it. Although nothing happened the way it was planned... 5 guys from Vancouver, meeting 5 Brits, for 5 days, visiting 5 different locations in Scotland, with one challenge a day. In style, of course. Find the best in luxurious living, the finest restaurants, the coolest places to visit, the most entertaining things to do. Now that sounded cool…but I soon realized that it was almost impossible to get 10 entrepreneurs, socialites and business guys together for 5 consecutive days. And checking the driving distances, the whole “let’s explore all of Scotland” idea would entail sitting in a car for most of the day. So, we decided to narrow it down to Edinburgh and the surrounding area and bring all the guys together for two days instead of 5 and then use the remaining days to explore the area. Little did we know it would become one of the most epic trips we have done so far!
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Vancouver to Glasgow Unless you hop on board your private jet and touch down at Edinburgh airport, you will most likely arrive in Glasgow. We actually picked a flight that brought us into Glasgow in the early morning, ideally to get most out of the first day. “We” is Jason Sarai, Oliver Finlay, myself, and our guest Aaron Laithwaite. Oliver used to be part of the Formula One circuit, so with him piloting the rental we made the 80-kilometre trip to Edinburgh in a little more than 30 minutes. But the truly terrifying part was when we had to remind him to “please use the other side of the road”!
Day 1 - A Scottish Welcome The 5-star Radisson Collection Hotel, Royal Mile Edinburgh, was our stop for the first night. Situated minutes away from Edinburgh Castle, on the famous Royal Mile, it was the perfect choice for our first day. It was here that our rental for the trip – a gorgeous 1965 Jaguar E-Type 4.2 Series 1 - arrived…along with Henry Fletcher, a Scottish race car driver and owner of performance car dealership Fletchdale Specialist Cars. Once we had freshened up it was time for our first experience. The Scotch Malt Whisky Society, a club unlike any other, had invited us for an exclusive, private experience. Founded in 1983, the club has the world’s widest selection of rare and exceptional single cask whiskies. Each of their single cask whiskies must pass the uncompromising noses of an expert tasting panel – a secretive group of independent whisky connoisseurs from all walks of life – before being deemed worthy of their iconic
“So whose idea was the E-Type?”
Society green bottle. Members of the Society are granted exclusive access to the Members’ Rooms in their flagship venues in London, Edinburgh, and Leith. In addition, a UK-wide and international network of hand-picked partner bars provides the members with a home away from home, in which members and non-members can enjoy a selection of Society drams in style.
Quality time at the 21st Century Kilts HQ on 48 Thistle Street, New Town, Edinburgh
Two hours later all of us were wearing…skirts. Lovely. But – I have to admit that those kilts are actually really comfortable. And ... breezy. Going to the bathroom was a whole different story, though. Now try to get rid of that picture!
Day 2 - Skirts, Pigeons and Two Castles
Suitably attired for the ultimate Scotland experience, we took to the road and headed for Winton Castle, set in East Lothian just outside of Edinburgh. Often the setting for galas, dinners and private parties, it is also one of the most beautiful and romantic wedding venues in Scotland. But that’s not what we were there for. We were about to shoot pigeons! Clay pigeons that is. And who better a teacher than the 24 times Scottish clay shooting champion, twice Irish clay champion, and once British clay pigeon champion, Billy Gordon. Not only is he a natural shooting tutor with lots of patience (which, is quite often needed) - Billy is also quite the entertainer!
We met the rest of Team Scotland on Thistle Street, one of those small back-alley streets in Edinburgh, where time stands still. It is also home to 21st Century Kilts, a designer boutique for stylish, offthe-peg and bespoke kilts. Have you seen Vin Diesel or Lenny Kravitz in kilts? Yes, that was Howie Nicholsby and 21st Century Kilts who dressed them. And now they would dress us.
The purpose-built shooting stands are located in the private woods adjacent to the castle. They have been carefully designed to cater to all levels of shooting ability. But equally as impressive as the stands are the names. Pigeon Pair, Whistling Woodcock, Running Rabbit, High Pheasant, Towering Teal and Exocet.
As we arrived at the understated HQ, Howie, the owner, was waiting for us. Well, kind of. He was across the street at his favourite pub, and soon we found ourselves with a good pint in our hands, standing outside in the sun for a good chat. It was almost noon after all, and with our E-Type parked right in front of the store we got quite a few thumbs up. Edinburgh is great!
Team Scotland clearly had an advantage here – they do this all the time, right? Well, what can we say, our very own Aaron Laithwaite, a first-time shooter, nailed it! 9 out of 9. Meanwhile, Mr. 21st Century Kilts, Howie, representing Team Scotland…er, not so much. But no wound that a good pint would not heal! All in good fun, the Canadians won this one!
The next time you are in Edinburgh, be sure to visit the impressive four-storey Georgian building. The Kaleidoscope Whisky Bar and Dining Room Restaurant are open to the public, and the food is amazing! A big thank you to the whole team, we truly enjoyed the hospitality and great food. What a way to start our Scotland experience.
Edinburgh and Edinburgh Castle on a sunny day - priceless!
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Pictures don’t do it justice. The luxurious ‘bed chambers’ at Borthwick Castle.
After a brief tour of Winton Castle, we departed in search of our home for the night, Borthwick Castle. But even though we had done our research, we could not have expected what we were about to see. Half an hour later, after guiding the E-Type through some amazing Scottish scenery, we arrived at one of the most imposing sights you could hope to find. “Seated on a knowl in the midst of a pretty vale, bounded by hills covered by corn and woods, a most picturesque scene.” Pennant, writer and traveller, 1772. Well versed he may have been, however, we suspect Pennant’s encounter with Borthwick was somewhat different to ours. The castle was built when James I granted a Royal charter to Sir William de Borthwick in 1430 to build and fortify a castle. The building, which later became famous when Mary, Queen of Scots, fled there in 1567, still exists in almost its original form, proudly wearing its cannonball scar for all to see. This was to be our home for the night. And just to clarify, it was “our” home for the night, as in – this is not a hotel! No, we had the whole castle for ourselves, and we had no idea what to expect. It was an experience unlike any other. As we drove through the arched gateway, the castle staff were waiting for us. We were immediately relieved of our luggage, which was taken to our respective rooms, before being invited up the spiral staircase of the North Tower and into the State Room. There we sat beside a roaring fire with our personal bartenders, who ensured we received the drink each of us had earned from climbing all those stairs. The State Room itself made each of the 10 guys in kilts feel like the king of the castle, and while it is really difficult to put this experience into words, needless to say, gentlemen, if staying in your own castle for a night, or several, is not on your bucket list, it should be! Here we were joined by Natalie and Michael from VisitScotland, Scotland’s national tourism agency. Natalie and Michael were very helpful in supporting the logistical organization of this trip, and it was a real pleasure to finally meet them in person. Thus ensued some fantastic socializing, as each member of the respective teams acquainted themselves with each other over a drink or two. It was here that we learned that Team Scotland actually included the
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current “Mr. Scotland”, Tristan Cameron-Harper, who is famous for his YouTube video “Kilted Yoga”. We know what you’re thinking and, ladies (and maybe gents, we don’t judge), we will leave it to you to do your own research! As welcome drinks fast became “well welcomed” drinks, we were taken off, one by one, to find our bedrooms, or “bed chambers with lavish bathrooms”, which would actually be a better way to describe them. With names like “Knights Templar”, “Earl of Bothwell”, and “Mary Queen of Scots”, each room’s title gives an indication of its remarkable history of previous residents. What had been intended to be a personal introduction soon developed into an impromptu castle tour, as each room was so unique that we were all so intrigued to see each other’s rooms. Again, pictures don’t do it justice. Following a brief hiatus to freshen up, we reconvened in the State Room for pre-dinner drinks before being escorted to the incredible Great Hall for dinner…which is better described as “culinary experience”. “Globe Artichoke Heart filled with Whisky Smoked Salmon”, “Poached Duck Egg, Brioche & Summer Truffle”, “Roast Fillet of Scotch Rose Veal with wild garlic, nasturtiums, confit carrots & pearl barley”…we’ll stop there, but there was more of the same ilk. To the whole team at Borthwick Castle – Thank you. You definitely made us feel like kings! For more information or to schedule your exclusive rental of this iconic stronghold of Scottish history visit www.BorthwickCastle.com
Day 3 - Being Robert Langdon We checked out of Borthwick Castle just before noon, and on our way to the most mysterious and magical chapel on earth, made a stop for a walk at a nearby castle, which was in a slightly (significantly) worse state of repair than our former residence (the Scots have a few of those, you know). “The most mysterious and magical chapel on earth” - Rosslyn Chapel
The chapel in question was Rosslyn Chapel, formally known as the Collegiate Chapel of St Matthew. The 15th-century chapel is located in the village of Roslin, just a short 20-minute drive south from
Edinburgh. For those of you that haven’t been to the movies in, say 15 years, Rosslyn Chapel became world famous after featuring at the centre of a conspiracy theory in Dan Brown’s worldwide bestseller, The Da Vinci Code, which was later released as a film adaptation starring Tom Hanks. Upon returning to Edinburgh, our hotel for the next 2 nights was The Glasshouse Hotel, a five-star Marriott establishment in the city centre. When the 160-year-old Lady Glenorchy Church was converted into this luxury boutique hotel in 2003, Scotland exchanged one iconic piece of history for another…unless you are aware of another hotel with a two-acre rooftop garden? Our culinary experience on that day was a visit to multi awardwinning Chef Martin Wishart’s “The Honours” for dinner. It is one of many things we weren’t expecting in Scotland – amazing food!
Day 4 - The Need for Speed Let’s just say we didn’t finish the night straight after dinner, so a good walk, exploring Edinburgh, was a welcome idea the next morning. From its position on the Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle is a historic fortress that dominates the city skyline. Archaeologists have established that humans have been occupying the Castle Rock since at least the Iron Age (2nd century AD) and there has been a royal castle at that location since at least the reign of David I in the 12th century. The site continued to be a royal residence until 1633, when it was then principally used as military barracks housing a large garrison. One of the most important strongholds
in the Kingdom of Scotland, Edinburgh Castle has been involved in many historic conflicts. Research undertaken in 2014 identified 26 sieges in its 1100-year-old history, making it “the most besieged place in Great Britain and one of the most attacked in the world.” Legs stretched, we jumped in the car and crossed the recently completed Forth Road Bridge, en route to Knockhill Racing Circuit in Fife. Opened in September 1974, Knockhill is Scotland’s only approved MSA and FIA Internationally graded circuit, famous for hosting major televised motorsport events such as the British Touring Car and the British Superbike Championships. Located in the countryside approximately 60km from either St. Andrews or Edinburgh, the track is 2km long, with a dramatic series of twists, turns, drops, and climbs, varying by around 200 feet (60m) from highest to lowest point. If you ever wanted to drive on the same International Circuit previously driven by Jackie Stewart, Stirling Moss, David Coulthard, or Lewis Hamilton, here’s your chance! They offer several experiences, from performance driving, to piloting a Formula Race Car, to a supercar experience with your choice of an Aston Martin or a Ferrari. For the evening we decided to don our kilts one last time. The Dome is a bar situated in one of the most the most iconic buildings in Edinburgh, a former bank that was built in 1847. No visit to the city is complete without having at last a few drinks there, which is exactly what we did. Gents – if you bring your lady, they serve Taittinger Comtes de Champagne 2005! And for yourself, the New York Sour comprises Bourbon, Cockburn’s Fine Ruby Port, lemon juice and egg white. Michael from VisitScotland had made arrangements for dinner
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at The Whiski Rooms, a reputable restaurant where classic and modern Scottish cuisine is served in a refined bare-stone room with over 300 malts to sample. Needless to say ... we sampled “a few” of the more exclusive and uncommon examples of the ‘Water of Life’ over the course of the next few hours.
Day 5 - St. Andrews, The Old Course, The Fairmont I don’t play golf - well, maybe mini-golf. But apparently, St. Andrews, our home for the next 2 nights, is home to the game and is
twin brothers Guy and Jamie McKenzie, Blown Away is an awardwinning outdoor experience company operating on the West Sands Beach in St Andrews, just a short drive from the Fairmont. When we arrived, Guy and Jamie had just come back from “some quick kite-surfing” and it turned out that we were their last group for the day, and so we definitely got some extra attention. Land yachting combines the grace of sailing with the adrenaline buzz of motor racing. Imagine sitting a few inches from the ground
The 5 star Fairmont St Andrews, just outside the town of St Andrews in Fife.
The seaside town of St Andrews is known for its many golf courses. Make sure to visit the ruins of St. Andrews Castle, with its medieval bottle dungeon.
subsequently world-renowned for its many golf courses, including the Old Course, with the landmark Swilken Bridge at the 18th hole. So my teammates’ eyes were glowing when I told them that we would not only spend 2 nights there, but that they would actually play the course. Myself? Well, I was actually more looking forward to our hotel – the Fairmont St. Andrews! After lunch hosted by Harry Donaghy, F&B Manager at the Old Course Hotel’s Road Hole Bar, we had one more stop to make before checking into the hotel - and it involved a trip to the beach. Have you heard of land yachting or sand sailing? Set up in 2007 by
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and racing your friends across the sands at top speed. It requires no previous sailing experience – Guy and Jamie taught us the basics in about 20 minutes. And the more confident you get, the more challenging the brothers will make the course on the beach, and you start sailing faster and faster. Turns out our fellow Scotsman Henry, a semi-professional race car driver, crossed the finish line first ... although he had a slight head start (“feel my breath, my friend!”). We had a blast and after this 2-hour experience we were so covered in sand, it looked as if we had been wrestling each other on the beach, never mind racing
championship Golf Courses, a sumptuous spa, and excellent restaurants. You don’t have to be a golfer to fall in love with this place. And you’d better have a good appetite in the morning - their Squire restaurant provides an extravagant buffet breakfast including black pudding, local haggis, crisp bacon, fluffy pancakes, and eggs served every way, with a wide selection of teas, coffees, and fruit juice available. Add a range of pastries, deli meats, and cheeses, and you are well prepared for the day (or you may find yourself taking a quick nap before lunch). For dinner we had made reservations at The Grange Inn restaurant, just a short drive away from the hotel. Despite its description as a “well kept secret,” we had heard a lot about this restaurant from people we had met - and the first impression did not disappoint, as we drove up to a lovely 17th-century converted farmhouse with views looking out over St Andrews and St Andrews Bay. And its reputation is justly earned, with Chef Proprietor, John Kelly, providing a dining experience to remember. The food was nothing short of exquisite, every course presented like its own artwork with layer after layer of flavour sensations and textures. Definitely a must when you visit St. Andrews!
Day 6 - FORE! each other. Thank you, Guy and Jamie – this was a real highlight of our trip and we can highly recommend it. Sandblasted, we headed to the 520-acre, five star Fairmont St Andrews resort. It must have been quite the scene for the concierge at this famous luxury resort when she saw a bunch of guys, covered in beach, walk through the door. But I guess they are used to it...
It was the morning some of us were really looking forward to: Golfing at the “Home of Golf”, on some of the oldest courses in the world. It turned out that Henry is not your typical Scotsman. “You look stupid in those clothes and where’s the point in driving a little ball across the lawn?” he remarked at breakfast. I wholeheartedly agree, and as it was another sunny day we decided to go on a hike along the beautiful coastline into the town of St. Andrews, with its ruins of St. Andrews Castle, where we would later meet up with the rest of the gang for lunch. The Steak Barn is housed in a former sawmill and clings to its rustic past, with walls constructed from old potato boxes and furnished with The Gleneagles Hotel - a palace, where the kings of Scotland were once crowned
The Fairmont St. Andrews encapsulates luxury, elegance, and truly breathtaking surroundings in the ‘Birthplace of Golf.’ What awaits you here? The shortlist of amenities includes 211 luxury guest rooms (most of them with stunning panoramic views of the Tay Estuary, the North Sea and the medieval skyline of St Andrews), along with two
1965 JAGUAR E-TYPE 4.2 SERIES 1 A big “thank you” to Fletchdale Cars of London for letting us use their beautiful Jaguar E-Type, finished in its original and very desirable colour of Opalescent Silver Blue with light blue hide, a colour scheme duly coveted by Prince Harry and Meghan, and they subsequenlty drove a converted model of the same car to their wedding reception. This Fixed Head Coupe, introduced at the 1961 Geneva Salon, immediately stirred passions with its extremely sleek and timeless design backed by staggering performance. It was often called the most beautiful production car of all time, and remains an automotive icon of design, engineering and speed. Our 1965 model was the first year using the powerful 4.2 litre engine and remains in fabulous original condition.
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rough-hewn communal tables made of weathered beech salvaged from the estate. Owned by one of Henry’s buddies, we simply had to say “hi” ...and have some of their amazing food. The steaks are hung on site for no less than 28 days, the burgers and sausages are made in their own butchery, and all of it is cooked to order on a massive wood-fired BBQ. Add twice-fried chips, or crispy beer-battered onion rings, wine or local beer, and enjoy. Satiated, the more active members of the group headed for the Fairmont’s well-equipped gym, whilst the more leisurely-inclined chose to head for the spa instead. Well, we were on vacation after all - there’s no need to overdo anything. Suitably refreshed, we had barely managed to work up enough of an appetite to eat again and Olli whisked us off to the next fine dining experience he had planned, this time at The Seafood Ristorante. The restaurant has vast windows through which you can take in the amazing panoramic views over St Andrews Bay and West Sands Beach. You won’t find a better dining spot to enjoy a breathtaking sunset!
Day 7 - Gleneagles It was our last day in Scotland, and the next morning we would be sitting on the plane heading back home. It was also time to say goodbye to our new friends and the beloved Jag. We will miss them (the Jaguar for sure). The prestigious Gleneagles Hotel first opened its doors in 1924 and was soon described as a “Riviera in the Highlands”. Today, as a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, Gleneagles is a five-star luxury hotel with three championship golf courses, an award-winning spa and the only restaurant in Scotland to hold two Michelin stars. They even offer a thrilling off-road experience in a fleet of 4x4 Land Rover Defenders! The perfect place to spend your last night in Scotland in style! We had an incredible experience! Who would have guessed that we would find the most amazing weather, sunny, with the bluest of skies? That we would find some of the best dining experiences we have ever had? That we would take over a breathtaking medieval castle? But most of all, that we would be welcomed by some truly amazing people, we are now honoured to call friends. It just worked. The fun we had – priceless. The trip – memories for a lifetime.
Don’t make her wait
Unfortunately, due to the fact we have already well exceeded the initial allocation of pages and now reached a hard limit, we could only tell you a carefully curated (and censored) selection of the experiences we shared on this trip. And, to be honest, some things should “stay in Scotland”. So you will most likely never find out about the day that “going commando” was not the greatest idea and ended with some “almost new” loaner underwear. Nor about the rental that turned into an off-roader (“was that the exhaust?”). The high-speed driving trying to get to the limits of an extremely valuable 1965 iconic sports car. The reincarnation of Michael Jackson…and the list goes on and on... Please visit www.visitScotland.com to plan your trip.
xcitecanada.ca xcitecanada.ca
out & about RIDE & DRIVE GALA AUDI VANCOUVER
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images by: Kevin Uy
On June, 14th, presented by AllWest Insurance, the Dilawri Group of Companies welcomed their guests to the second annual Ride & Drive Gala. It was a wonderful evening, emceed by Fiona Forbes, with entertainment, canapĂŠs, cocktails, exciting auction items, and speakers. The fundraiser event donates 100% of the proceeds, including ticket sales, donations, and silent auction items to the BC Cancer Foundation. The money raised will directly support leading clinicians, scientists, and researchers whose search for new discoveries and improved patient outcomes will have a real impact in the communities throughout the province, across Canada, and around the world. For its fourth consecutive year, the Dilawri Group of Companies is the National Vehicle Sponsor for The Ride to Conquer Cancer, which is a 2-day, 250KM bike ride that takes place in four provinces in an effort to raise awareness and donations.
OWN YOUR GAME discrete delivery service maximum effect
xcitecanada.ca xcitecanada.ca
I JAMES BOND does NOT take
SELFIES!
“THE ONLY MAN WHO CAN PULL OFF A SELFIE IS ROBERT DOWNEY JR, AND THAT’S BECAUSE HE’S FRICKING IRON MAN.” 48
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I
It’s true! Have you ever seen James Bond taking a selfie? Can you imagine Paul Newman or Steve McQueen using a selfie-stick to capture a pic of themselves with the beautiful sunset? No! Have you seen Justin Bieber take selfies? There – now you get it! The only respectable man who can pull off the selfie is Robert Downey Jr, and that’s because he is fricking Iron Man and therefore he can do whatever he wants. No, a real man does not take selfies! It is a rule of law that men are allowed to have a maximum of three photos of themselves: one from their first day of school, the second on their driver’s license and the third – if they are unfortunate enough to be married – from their wedding day. Gentlemen: Selfies are for women. Women take selfies in order to show things off to the world that men really don’t care about. The new hot outfit, the new hair colour, and the cute puppy. Well, to be fair - they also take selfies in order to display things men really do care about, such as cleavage and what they look like in their new lacy dress or their new bikinis. Yes, we want to see those! But in short, unless you have boobs, don’t take selfies.
should be using its camera is to take a quick pic of the number of the parking meter. That’s it. If you want to take real pictures, whether you’re trying to capture the moment or snap some great architecture on your next trip, then get yourself a real camera! There is a reason they ‘still exist.’ No matter how amazing technology gets, there are some fundamental limitations that will more or less always be in the way of smartphones. So get a stylish camera. And yes, you can still upload it to your all-so-important Instagram account and let all of your gazillion followers exactly know where you are and what you are doing! Here’s our pick of some retro-style models that are sure to attract some admiring glances, as well as take some great shots and come with all the little gimmicks that you need.
Ok, all kidding aside, your phone is for calls and appointment reminders, and the only reason you
OLYMPUS OM-D E-M10 MARK III Ok, we are not a big fan of the name but the camera is our absolute favourite! The DSLR styling and an electronic viewfinder on the top, combined with a 16MP Micro Four Thirds sensor, 5-axis image stabilisation, 4K video and a powerful image processor that brings 121 autofocus points, the E-M10 III is more sophisticated than most beginner mirrorless cameras. The E-M10 III is small, although not as small as for example the Fujifilm or Sony, but with its exterior dials and buttons, is ideal for enthusiasts who expect to be able to take control when they want to. And it sure looks the closest to a SLR camera of the late 70s. The rear tilting touch-screen and its touch-focus, touch-shutter option is perfect for smartphone upgraders and novices, and with its Wi-Fi connectivity users can not only send photos and videos directly from their camera to their phone or tablet, they can actually control the camera through an app! C$799.00 (body only)
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FUJIFILM X-A5
LEICA M TYPE 240
LUMIX G9
SONY ALPHA 6000
FUJIFILM X-A5 The mirrorless X-A5 offers a whopping 24MP APS-C sensor, built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, is lightweight and has batteries that last up to 450 shots. It also comes with a 3 inch 180-degree tiltable touchscreen, 4K video, 17 Advanced Filters and 11 Film Simulation modes. It uses the company’s X-mount lenses. Available in 3 colours. C$ 749.99 w. 15-45mm lens.
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LEICA M TYPE 240 If you love photography, your eyes will start glowing now. Celebrating the styling of the past with contemporary imaging technology, the Leica M features a full-frame Leica Max 24MP CMOS sensor and records full HD 1080p video. It also utilizes the vast network of M-mount lenses and is compatible with Leica R-mount lenses via an optional adapter. C$9,100.00 (body only).
LUMIX G9
SONY ALPHA 6000
Panasonic’s answer to the Olympus, the mirrorless G9 is a bit bigger and heathier than the Mark III. The 20MP sensor comes with a highresolution mode that takes eight exposures, shifting the sensor by half a pixel’s width each time, then combines it to one, 80-megapixel RAW or JPEG file. A fantastic camera, and at C$2,299.00 (body only) it is not a bad investment.
The very portable Alpha 6000 comes with a superb 24 MP sensor, 179 phase detection points, and a super quick autofocus. 25600 ISO lets you shoot even in low light, and full 1080 HD at 60p or 24p lets you capture movies like a pro. Add an OLED TruFinder, manual controls and a range of lenses, for a great alternative to bulky DSLRs. 579.99 (body only).
MUST-HAVE
photography ACCESSORIES AND
GADGETS! LUME CUBE www.lumecube.com
LENSBALL www.lensball.com Lensball is the ultimate photography tool. A unique way to capture your world. It flips things upside down, shows a 180-degree view of your surroundings, gets them in focus, and lets you see much more than through a regular lense. Lensball is perfectly suited for any kind of camera, smartphone or professional high-end camera.
The Lume Cube emits a powerful 1,500 Lumens of daylight balanced light from it’s 1.5 inch aluminum body. The lens offers a 60° beam angle with no hot spots, the perfect solution for any photographer & videographer. Mountable to any device and controlled via Bluetooth app.
ROTOLIGHT NEO 2
RODE MIC PRO
JOBY
GORILLA POD 3
www.rotolight.com
www.rode.com
www.joby.com
An all-in-one continuous LED light and HSS Flash, that combines the ‘shoot what you see’ benefits of continuous light, with the flexibility of High Speed Sync (HSS) flash, for more power or to freeze action.
The RØDE VideoMic Pro is a shotgun microphone with a broadcast recording quality condenser microphone designed for use with cameras and DSLRs. Ultra lightweight (85g), battery powered (70 hours ).
Flexible: Grip it. Wrap it. Stand it. A lightweight professional tripod with 3kg carrying capacity for all the tools of the modern content creator. Wrappable legs allow you to secure professional camera equipment to virtually any surface.
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menof style
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OPTICAL ILLUSIONS IN MENSWEAR
PITTI UOMO 94 Pitti Uomo is a biannual menswear trade show which takes place in Florence, Italy since 1972. Driven by the passion for elevating men’s style and promoting the highest of quality in service and products, clothing and accessory brands as well as esteemed tailoring houses from around the globe set-up shop at the fairgrounds. For buyers, business owners, and visitors, this showcase allows for the discovery of new clothing and accessory collections, manufacturing capabilities, ready-to-wear and made-to-order products, and bespoke services. Fostering distinctive business and professional relationships against a historic backdrop is bound to occur when the trade show exceeds 30,000 visitors in the City of Lilies. The trends for the Fall/Winter season of the current year are featured in the January edition and the trends for the Spring/Summer season of the following year are featured in June. The theme of Pitti Uomo 94 was broadly categorized as optical illusions. This included the resurgence of patterns, brighter colours, and textured fabrics for the Spring/Summer season of 2019. With regards to the patterns, sportcoats were made of bold and loud checks, pinstripes, or gingham in various sizes. Colours that splashed across the Fortezza da Basso were cream, ivory, mustard, green, and red. Fabrics ranged in weights and compositions from heavy linens to lightweight hopsacks and jackets were predominantly unlined, unstructured, and fuller in the body. There was also popularity in jeans, especially light-wash soft stretch denim featuring a higher rise. Pitti Uomo 95 will be hosted from January 8th to the 11th of 2019 – however in the meantime, enjoy your summer in good style.
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The
Dapper Gent! Get yourself a Signature Scent – The Secret Style Weapon. It tells people who you are!
Él by Arquiste Apparently it is about the breezy seductiveness of the beach in Acapulco after dark. Whatever - it smells great!
The Grooming Room by Ted Baker We get the name! As this scent kinda reminds us of the truly classic kind that the barber pats on your face and neck after the shave. Code A-List by Armani “An elegant and sophisticated creation that goes with a tuxedo.” Questions? Tamarindo by Memo Paris Another one .. “The olfactive memory of the Pacific coastline town in Costa Rica, surrounded by tropical rainforests and macaws.” Light Blue Italian Zest Pour Homme by Dolce & Gabbana “A summertime cruise on a classic yachtoff the coast of Amalfi” - we have no idea how they come up with this? Anyway - this scent is not for the shy—with hints of juniper, pepper, incense, and even a tiny whiff of musk.
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menof style
THE ARCHETYPAL HUNTER For information on the New Vantage, contact: Aston Martin Vancouver 1770 Burrard Street, Vancouver BC V6J 3G7 604-734-2905 or visit astonmartinvancouver.ca Š Aston Martin 2017. Vehicle shown for illustrational purposes only.
ARTS & MUSIC
KALEO
VANCOUVER’S ICONIC ART SCENE IN REVIEW by Oliver Finlay
XAVIER RUDD Xavier Rudd returned to Vancouver at the beginning of June, for the first time since November 2012, to tour his 9th album, ‘Storm Boy’. The show, promoted by Live Nation and hosted in Stanley Park’s Malkin Bowl, was opened by Xavier’s friend and spoken word artist, Emmanuel Jal. Jal drew on the story of his troubled upbringing, escaping South Sudan as a young refugee, whilst many family members were murdered, before his subsequent salvation from life as a child soldier, smuggled out of the country to school in Kenya, by a British aid worker. A set that was equal parts humanitarian plea and authentic humour, had the eclectic crowd of all ages, on their feet and warmed up in time for Rudd to take to the stage. For those who haven’t had the pleasure of observing Rudd perform, it’s difficult to describe the creative musical talent of a man that at times plays percussion, harmonica, guitar and didgeridoo, whilst still finding breath to sing his way through a commentary of consciousness, with the crowd surfing on his shoulders. Opening with ‘Creancient’, written by Rudd and performed in collaboration with United Nations on the 2015 ‘Nanna’ album, he was flanked by the bassist from that project, Tio Moloantoa. Rudd continued to mix established crowd favourites, such as ‘Spirit Bird’, ‘Follow the Sun’, ‘Let Me Be’ and ‘Mana’ with tracks that are fast reaching similar status from the new album, such as ‘Walk Away’, ‘Honeymoon Bay’ and ‘Storm Boy’. In doing so, the atmosphere fast developed into a camp fire sing-along with a social conscience, missing only the flames. Xavier Rudd’s ‘Storm Boy’ tour continues throughout North America until the beginning of July before crossing the Atlantic to traverse Europe throughout September and October 2018.
KALEO At the end of June, Icelandic blues/rock band, Kaleo played their second date in Vancouver, performing at the sun-drenched PNE amphitheatre. Supported by BC’s own Dan Mangan, the show, which was another of Live Nation’s early summer offerings attracted a loyal following who were in strong voice from the opening, the delta blues offering, ‘Broken Bones’. AS YOU LIKE IT
The band, now residents of Austin, TX, demonstrate individual styles as wide ranging as the musical styles illustrated in their brief discography. At times, blues rock songs like ‘No Good’ cast the mind to various Black Keys tracks, others such as the acoustic pop ‘All the Pretty Girls’ are more reminiscent of British singer song writers such as James Bay, ‘Automobile’ adds a decidedly country flavour to the repertoire, whilst upbeat pop rock number ‘Hot Blood’ evokes sounds of The Black Crowes. Without doubt, the warmest reception was saved for the Canadian double-platinum awarded ‘Way Down We Go’, which brought the short main set to a rousing close. To check out more concerts coming to Vancouver and promoted by Live Nation over the coming months, including Foo Fighters, Jay-Z and Beyonce, Justin Timberlake and Fleetwood Mac, go to www.LiveNation.com
AS YOU LIKE IT Returning to the boards this summer, for their twenty ninth season, Bard on the Beach opened the colourful adaptation of Shakespeare’s most feel-good love story, ’As You Like It’ on June 22nd. Directed by Daryl Cloran, the mood is set even before the “curtain is raised” with a pre-show homage to Vancouver’s All-Star Wrestling scene of the 1960’s, with the cast engaging in some
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ring-based high jinx, which gift a seamless link to the opening scene of the play. The pastoral comedy swaps the traditional French duchy for swinging sixties Kitsilano before heading east, not to the Forest of Arden, but to the Okanagan, with fabulous sartorial subtexts evoking the respective fashions of the city and the interior at that time. Whilst the evolution of the characters’ relationships develop over the course of the play, as one would expect, so too does the soundtrack that Cloran has adopted to help tell the story. The clever curation of The Beatles’ back catalogue provides the perfect foil to the celebrated bard’s pen, with the exuberance of their earlier songs reflecting the youthful love and adventure explored by the troubled suitors, whilst the more spiritual and reflective moods of some of their later numbers frame the more philosophical characters and perplexing conundrums that are introduced as life amongst the trees ensues. The largest Shakespeare festival in Western Canada has set a high-bar for the season ahead, with ‘MacBeth’, ‘Timon of Athens’ and ‘Lysistrata’, their other chosen offerings between June and mid-September. For further information on shows, workshops, talks, special events and tickets, go to www.bardonthebeach.org
VSO PRESENTS CARLY RAE JEPSON At the Orpheum, two of BC’s best known musical names from two very different genres came together for an intriguing collaboration, as the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra provided the accompaniment for Carly Rae Jepson, with several of her best known hits being suitably reworked by Toronto composer, Christopher Mayo. Jepson developed a passion for musical theatre at an early age and alongside her singing career, has starred in roles on Broadway and in front of the camera. Consequently, she looked at home in the more intimate surroundings of the VSO’s downtown home. Adorned in a stunning full length gown, Jepson overcame some early problems with the sound to demonstrate her full vocal range as she gave rousing renditions of hits such as ‘Call Me Maybe’ and ‘I Really Like You’. Conducted by the ever dynamic Lucas Waldin, the orchestra also performed popular classics including Tchaikovsky’s ‘Romeo and Juliet Overture-Fantasy’ and Debussy’s ‘Clair De Lune’, which were warmly welcomed by the young audience, many of whom were taking in the VSO for the very first time. Throughout July, the VSO take to the road to perform outdoor concerts in Whistler and at Deer Lake Park, before returning to host movie soundtracks to ‘Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix’ and ‘Star Wars: A New Hope at the Orpheum’. The 2018/19 season begins on September 20th, with the full schedule available at www.VancouverSymphony.ca
VSO & CARLY RAE JEPSON
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out & about STEFANO BEMER X STYLE BY SARAI BERTACCHI HATCRAFTER VANCOUVER images by: Envizion Media
In downtown Vancouver, at the Bertacchi Italian Hatcrafter showroom, Style by Sarai hosted Tommaso Melani – CEO of the world renowned shoemaking brand, Stefano Bemer from Florence, Italy. The brand is known for their luxury shoes from their various collections of ready-to-wear as well as refined designs of their made-to-order and bespoke. Alongside the luxury shoes were handcrafted hats and bespoke suits to compliment the full looks and provide inspiration for stylish pairings. The exclusive evening was a unique occasion for Vancouver, and the first of many, satiating the attentiveness to craftsmanship and discovery of artisanal creations of like-minded professionals and connoisseurs of all things sartorial.
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The Gentleman
by Dr. Christian Brix
They should have taught you this in school....
THIS ONE’S FOR THE GIRLS:
WHAT DOES A GENTLEMAN REALLY WANT IN A WOMAN? For a mens’ advice column, I seem to get a lot of female readers. That made me want to switch it up a little, and so this issue is just for the ladies. Here is the good news: Instead of the usual “how to meet or please a great girl,” the following is a list of what a great guy might be looking for! Take it or leave it, but if you are dealing with a real man, this will help: Know who you are - We want a girl with confidence. There is nothing sexier than a girl who knows who she is, and is comfortable with it. Don’t pretend you are free of insecurities (because we all have some), but make sure they aren’t dictating who you are and driving all your actions! Your circle - Most of the gents I know say that their ideal woman values her family and friends above all else. You could lose everything in your life, and those are the people who will be there for you. How a girl treats her loved ones is a great insight into how she might treat her man. Turn down the tramp - When you are choosing your outfit, think “classy and sexy.” A gentleman is still a man, and you know he loves what may be under that outfit, but the mystery is the best part.
“There is
of the most appealing things about a great woman. It isn’t necessarily about money, but more about having something that really gives you purpose, and gets you excited when you talk about it. Laugh a little - If you have a good sense of humor and have no problem laughing at yourself, it shows you are confident. We love a girl who can take it as well as give it out! Did you just look at her? - Part of being the “cool” girl is realizing that you can have some trust and confidence in your man. Being jealous and insecure about other girls in his life can make both of you insane. Start with trust, and if he breaks it, by all means go ahead and blow up his car (okay nothing maybe don’t do that actually).
sexier than a
girl who knows who she is, and is comfortable with it.”
Sweat pants? - With that being said, another (probably more important) consideration is how a girl looks when she is in “chill” mode. Can you leave the house with no make-up and your hair up? You are beautiful... it’s okay to relax sometimes! Less of the lush - Most of us like going for a few drinks at our favorite places. Make sure that for you, a “few drinks” doesn’t mean you are slurring, stumbling, and annoying by the end of the night. We aren’t at a high school keg party anymore. Have a brain! - Long gone are the days when acting like a valley girl ditz was a great way to get attention. A real man wants a girl with a real opinion, something interesting to say, and who knows at least a bit about what is happening in the world. Your “thing” - Being driven and passionate is also one
Join in - Even though guys like their “bro time,” it is also great to be with a girl who will hang out with the guys, come watch our sports sometimes, and can just hang out. Maybe even drink a beer?
Top Secret - This one is a bonus. We want to know you are thinking about us in “that” way when we aren’t around. Without getting too graphic, a sexy text, a subtle picture or a hint of what may be waiting when we get home will drive a guy crazy… in a good way. A very wise (I assume French) philosopher named Paris Hilton once said: “No matter what a woman looks like, if she’s confident, she’s sexy.” It may be the most intelligent thing she ever said because it is completely true. What we really want is YOU…not some made-up version of you that is controlled by insecurities or afraid to be bold. While we should strive to always be better, make sure you love yourself exactly as you are on that journey. There is nothing sexier.
Dr. Christian Brix Writer – Chiropractor - Broth Baron - Gentleman www.brixfamilychiropractic.com
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GROUNDING YOUR NETWORK by Jason Boudreau
W
hen we talk of our ‘networks’, we often perceive them to exist virtually, within our own minds or in a space where the countless connections cannot be illustrated or the potential experienced. Before LinkedIn or Shapr helped record, contain and develop networks, who we knew and what they did likely just existed in our minds and we relied on our brains to make valuable introductions and consider potential collaborations. This first degree of connection has its limitations, mainly relating to our own grey matter’s ability to step up to this task.
All businesses and organizations, especially in their infancy, depend on an entrepreneur having a network and them making requests of that network. These requests can be for additional connections, to engage in business, or both. This second degree of connection is time consuming and to deliver the successes objectified, entrepreneurs will make many meeting and requests. Jason Boudreau, VELA Wealth’s founder, has disciplined himself and his team to rigorously engage in activities related to network development and maintenance since he founded VELA Wealth. These activities and net-weaving (purposefully and proactively connecting those in one’s network who are not yet connected) are largely responsible for VELA Wealth’s growth and community. In 2016, VELA Wealth created GRAVITY, an annual event with the purpose of bringing together VELA’s network. This third degree of connection was conceived as a result of Jason’s desire to capture the essence of VELA Wealth’s ecosystem, to acknowledge those within it and to create environments where the people who contributed to the journey could experience the power of the network and their efforts to support and grow it. GRAVITY 2018 exceeded the mandate. The carefully curated content and medium its delivered an inspired, confident and creative energy that forged connections. VELA Wealth grounded its network and delivered an exciting space and experience for it to be alive and thrive. Many new ideas and declarations were born, jobs offered and journeys started. GRAVITY 2018 was uniquely recorded in real time by a highly talented illustrator. It is a privilege to share GRAVITY 2018 and its achievements with you. What does your network mean to your ecosystem and how can you ground yours?
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Jason Boudreau CFP, CLU Wealth Advisor Principal & Founder - VELA Wealth Management www.velawealth.com
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Jp Mata Leon
HUBLOT DIAMOND RALLY 2018 THE ULTIMATE SUPERCAR CHARITY CHALLENGE You know the Hublot Diamond Rally is just around the corner when more and more supercars in the “luxury & supercar capital of North America” start looking like racecars, sporting sponsorship decals, wild graphics, and the official Hublot Diamond Rally rally decals. What started 5 years ago as a humble local supercar spring drive to Whistler open to anyone who owned a qualifying vehicle has turned into the biggest charity rally in North America supporting over 20 worthwhile charities, and 2018 was about to set a new record! On Saturday, May 5th, under epic west coast blue skies, the parking lots at Brian Jessel BMW turn into a massive luxury and supercar display. As early as 7am drivers and navigators started arriving at the official start location, adding their last decals, chatting with fellow supercar drivers, and fuelling up on breakfast. Thousands of spectactors, amateur photographers, dads with their kids, and car enthusiasts took the chance to see some of the rarest, most expensive and most powerful cars on Earth. Where else can you see 35 McLarens, 40 Lamborghinis, 35 Ferraris, 20 Audi R8s, 20 Porsches, Mercedes, we even saw a selection of Rolls-Royce, Bentley and the ultra-rare Pagani Hyuara Roadster driven by Christian Pagani himself in the Charity Challenge!
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After the safety meeting, it was once more “Ladies and Gentlemen start your engines,” and the record number of 220 cars under a police escort were en route to Chances Casino in Squamish. After a brief pitstop for photo opportunities, the supercars rallied along the highway to Pemberton Airport. For the first time, VIP tents welcomed the drivers and co-pilots, giving shade while watching the supercar head to head challenges along the Airport runway. The day wrapped up on the beautiful patio at the Four Seasons Resort Hotel Whistler, where participants and sponsors gathered for Remy Martin cocktails & awards presentation. For more information and details about the annual Hublot Diamond Rally Charity Challenge, visit their website www.diamondrally.com. And mark your calendars - the next Diamond Rally will take place on Saturday, May 4TH, 2019. DIAMOND RALLY PHOTOGRAPHY AWARDS The Diamond Rally provides ample material for professional photographers and young, striving amateurs alike. The Photography Awards were created to honour their skills, and to show some of their amazing work. We are proud to present the winners. Congratulations to all of you! You did an amazing job,
Elijah Chu
Luka Kojima
Marcel Lech
Danew Mcbeth
Kiran Beitel
Project 604
Adam Beck
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photography: Kevin Uy
the quintessential
grand tourer THE NEW BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GT
A Brief History The Evolution of Bentley’s Famous Design DNA Don’t worry, we won’t take you back to the history of the very first GT that W.O. Bentley pushed out to the streets of London in 1919. Instead, we’ll focus on the modern-day GT, which was launched 15 years ago as the first car under Volkswagen AG as the sole provider of cars with the Bentley marque. It was also the brand’s first luxury car from a mass production
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line, packed with the most powerful engine Bentley had ever put in a street car: A 6.0-litre twin-turbocharged W12 producing a massive 560bhp and 479lb ft of torque. It took the luxury world by storm, and with more than 70,000 units (averaging out to nearly 5,000 a year) sold, making it one of Bentley’s most successful models in history (the divisive Bentayga SUV in now the most successful Bentley based on sales volume) and an instant icon. Aside from a switch from the W12 engine to the V8 and the introduction of a convertible model in 2006, the GT stayed pretty much unchanged for almost 8 years. Then, in 2011 Bentley released a second generation of Continental GTs with slight visual touch-ups, introducing a new front end and a variety of technical upgrades like an updated eight-speed automatic gearbox. Overall, and at a quick glance, the GT kept the same look for 15 years. It was showing its age.
A New Era: The Third Generation Bentley’s challenge for this third-generation model was twofold. First, it must appeal to the brand’s loyalists: carry through everything they loved about the current car, only enhanced and improved. Yes, we were nervous about what the new Continental GT would look like. And secondly, Bentley needed new customers: Those who might not have previously considered this distinctive British bruiser. What can we say – the result is stunning! A car that is unmistakably a Continental GT, and yet fresh and new. A lengthened hood, a pushed-back cabin, a somehow more impressive rear. Aggressive, impressive, and stylish. We had the chance to spend some time with the new Continental GT at its official reveal in early May, and we loved it.
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Sublime Power: The Beating Heart of Bentley At the heart of the new Continental GT sits an all-new, enhanced version of Bentley’s renowned 6.0-litre, twin-turbocharged W12 TSI engine, using the very latest engine management technology, with 300 million software calculations per second. The engine is positioned further back to improve weight distribution, resulting in driver-focused, dynamic performance, and is mated, for the first time, to a dual-clutch eight-speed transmission. It produces 635 PS (626 bhp) and 900 Nm (664 lb.ft.) of torque, enough to accelerate the new Continental GT to 100 km/h in 3.7 seconds and produce a top speed of 333 km/h. A new, technically advanced, adaptive chassis uses Bentley’s intelligent 48-volt Dynamic Ride System to ensure a responsive ride and exceptional handling and refinement in all road conditions. The new Active All-Wheel-Drive System replaces the traditional 40:60 power delivery split between front and rear wheels respectively, instead varying the front-to-rear torque split dependent upon the driving situation. The GT will use rear-wheel drive as much as possible during normal driving for optimum efficiency and dynamic performance.
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A World of Hidden Delights: The Cabin The new Continental GT also showcases major evolutions in Bentley’s unique application of technology. An advanced, fully digital, driver-focused instrument panel and Bentley Rotating Display for the driver are among the suite of innovations. The latter features an impressive 12.3” touchscreen housed in a three-sided unit, which revolves the veneer to reveal the touchscreen as well as three elegant analogue dials. The interior design of the Continental GT is tailored specifically to the modern luxury customer, with unrivalled attention to detail that creates an effortless ownership experience. The cabin seamlessly integrates cutting-edge onboard technology with the finest handcrafted natural materials. The result is an exquisite, harmonized, connected and luxurious space. Bespoke: Bentley Personalization Options and Mulliner The all-new Continental GT redefines personalization and bespoke luxury. Paint, leather, veneer and lifestyle options are virtually unlimited and tailored to the individual. The standard palette alone comprises 17 exterior paint colours, with up to 70 hues available
in the extended range. There are also 15 luxurious carpet options, eight different handcrafted veneers (with a further four dual-veneer options) and 15 choices of interior trim hide, which means that customers are able to specify their own choice of luxury finish. As with all Bentleys, the Continental GT can also be handed over to the highly skilled and dedicated craftspeople at Mulliner, Bentley’s personal commissioning division, who will respond to bespoke customer requirements. The first new 2019 Bentley Continental GTs will hit the streets of Vancouver in Spring 2019. And if you haven’t put your deposit down yet .. good luck. Better give the sales team at Bentley of Vancouver a call to find out how long the waiting list is. Bentley Vancouver | 1770 Burrard Street
BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GT AURORA JET HANGAR | RICHMOND
out & about
“A Launch Event Like No Other” - On May 3rd, Bentley Vancouver unveiled the brand-new Continental GT in a lavish VIP event at the Aurora Jet Hangar in Richmond. Guests enjoyed a luxurious evening with premium canapés, cocktails and live entertainment. The perfect backdrop, a private jet was available for a tour, and a selected group of exhibitors showcased some fine couture, jewellery and watches. Dennis Gocer and The Collective You once more drew a crowd with their portable photography studio, taking black-andwhite portraits of the guests that were instantly printed out as keepsakes. The main part of the event, the highly anticipated unveiling of the redesigned third generation Continental GT, was announced by a group of dancers, before guests could finally see and experience the luxurious coupe. A wonderful evening, and, as we hear, a very successful premiere: Bentley Vancouver added several names to the already impressive waiting list for the new Bentley Continental GT, which will hit the streets of Vancouver in the Spring of 2019.
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words: Natalie Langston
photography: Jonathan Camere
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cars: Porsche Center Vancouver | models: Amy Leong, Polina Stringini | photography: Kevin Uy
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but the car looked too voluminous, and the fastback rear quickly gave the 911 the nickname “humpback whale”. But sales were great, and so Porsche launched two further models in 2010: the Panamera and Panamera 4, which are powered by 3.0-litre and 3.6-litre V6 engines producing 304 PS (224 kW; 300 hp). In 2011, the Panamera S Hybrid, Diesel, Turbo S, and GTS were added to the range. The Panamera, S, Hybrid and Diesel models are rear-wheel drive, while the Panamera 4, 4S, and GTS have the same four-wheel drive system as the Turbo and Turbo S. Porsche introduced an updated Panamera in mid-2013. The revised model received new front and rear bumpers, which did absolutely nothing to resolve the visual awkwardness, and technical changes included the addition of a new 3.0L twinturbocharged Panamera S and a new E-Hybrid model. The Turbo S version followed up in 2014.
Straight from the gym! The Second Generation Panamera
S
o this was an interesting one.
The scenario: You’re King Gearhead of Gearhead Island, which means a fast car is as important to you as your morning coffee. You made some good money in your twenties or thirties, switched from the Pontiac to a nice Porsche 911 or Audi R8, had some fun ... and then you found THAT girl. The one who changed it all .. including what car you would drive. The weekend road-trip that only required one little gym bag before is now a multi-suitcase experience: “You don’t expect me to wear the same outfit the whole day, do you?” No, we don’t. Let’s face it .. we want them to look awesome. At the end of the day, she will reflect on you! And then there is the family talk ... sooner or later a stroller needs to fit in the car, not to mention the kids’ favourite toys and some snacks for the road. ...you get the picture, right? This was our challenge: “Find a sporty car that holds all the luggage a small family could need.” And what our two guys brought .. is the same car. Kind of ... But first: A brief history of the Panamera.
The front is more evolutionary than revolutionary, sharper-edged with a leaner, more muscular fascia. A side view reveals a bit of a cab-rearward design, where the passenger compartment has been shifted back slightly. Inside the cabin, Porsche has focused heavily on a more digital ambiance, introducing the new Porsche Advanced Cockpit. Taking cues from the instrument panel of a 1955 Porsche 356 A, it has an analog tachometer between a pair of 7-inch digital displays. A 12.3-inch high-resolution Porsche Communication Management touchscreen in the centre console can be accessed by both driver and passenger, and serves as the infotainment unit.
Spacious, comfortable, family-friendly, and fast — that’s what Porsche wanted to achieve, and achieve it they did. And more - the Panamera should become one of Zuffenhausen’s ‘greatest hits’ of the new millennium. But it wasn’t loved by all...
Under the hood, a brand-new 4.0L twin-turbo V8 with 550hp and 770Nm and a new eight-speed PDK dual-clutch gearbox were introduced for the flagship Panamera Turbo, which now accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 3.6 seconds (with the optional Sport Chrono package), reaching a top-speed of 306 km/h.
The first Porsche Panamera was introduced in 2009 as a V8powered Panamera S, 4S, and Turbo, and it immediately hit a nerve with the Porsche purists. Brand loyalists viewed the Panamera as an attempt to broaden Porsche’s appeal beyond that of hardcore fans – in other words, to dilute the brand. To say that the four-seater was not considered a classic beauty is almost an understatement. The proportions and curves were an attempt at a blown-up Porsche 911,
The second generation Porsche Panamera received immediate praise, and sales clearly show the approval of the new design. Yes, the Panamera is a Porsche-worthy sports-sedan. Prices start at $97,300 for the classic Panamera, $102,500 for the Panamera 4, $117,400 for the 4S, and $170,900 for the Turbo. A 4 E-Hybrid is also available ($113,400) as well as a Turbo S E-Hybrid for $209,800.
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The second generation Panamera was revealed on 28 June 2016 in Berlin, Germany, and shows a much more appealing design for a four-door sports car carrying the Porsche name. Under codename 971, the sedan is now 35mm longer, 5mm wider and 5mm taller than the first generation Panamera, with a 30mm longer wheelbase. The new Panamera is clearly inspired by the Porsche 911, with sharp edges and muscular flanks featuring prominently in the design. The rear, which aesthetically was the first generation’s main problem area, now has a striking slope and a continuous band of light, giving it a very dynamic look. The side windows have also been redesigned to further emphasize the coupe-like profile.
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The Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo Porsche purists had to come to terms with the fact that in order to survive, Porsche can’t just build 911s. They had to live with the Boxster, the Cayenne and Macan, and the Panamera. And just when they thought they could finally sleep better at night, the design team from Zuffenhausen revealed the next shocker – a wagon! Well, one of the world’s most exotic luxury sport wagons. Although we wouldn’t call it a wagon. Hatchback might be more appropriate. But that’s what the original Panamera is. Ok, Sport Turismo it is. An ambiguous yet suitably racy term for a pretty sexy shape. C’mon – it is! It was in 2012 at the Paris auto-show that Porsche introduced the concept to the world, and we must admit they didn’t change a lot. The Sport Turismo is low, sleek, and powerful. At first sight you may think that only the rear, after the C-Pillar, has changed and received a higher roof-line for the trunk, suggesting greater practicality. In reality, all of the sheet-metal after the B-pillars is new, along with the roof. The look of the Sport Turismo really works. In fact, we may even call it an improvement on the Panamera. The roofline is more elegant, and the whole car gets a very dynamic profile. Especially with the available 21-inch wheels, the shooting brake silhouette sits low on its tires like a true performance vehicle. So it has a way bigger trunk then, too? Well, not really. With no change in overall length, the Turbo Sport Turismo’s cargo hold is just 4 percent larger than a standard Panamera’s. It makes a difference, but not a huge one. A larger hatch makes the space easier to load, though, thanks to a lift over height that is 14.3cm (or 5.6 inches) lower than the conventional Panamera. The greater advantage is actually the improved rear-seat comfort. Leg-room is still a little tight, but the Sport Turismo’s longer roof gives more head-room in the back. Also noteworthy: The Sport Turismo introduces a five-seat configuration as standard, while the four-seat setup offered in the regular Panamera is optional. The Sport Turismo starts as a 4 at $109,700. The 4S is $124,500, the Turbo $175,600, and the 4 E-Hybrid can be yours for $118,600. The top of the line Sport Turismo, price-wise, is the Turbo S E-Hybrid Sport Turismo for $214,900.
And the winner is ... The client! So far we count 16 different Panamera/ Panamera Sport Turismo models, which means there’s something in this line for almost everyone. And if you want something a little more...unique? The Exclusive Manufaktur department can personalize your Porsche to give you the powerful beast of a car you crave with all the elegance and refined design your lady appreciates. You can find out more about the Panamera and all other Porsche models at the Porsche Centre Vancouver on 688 Terminal Avenue. www.porschevancouver.ca
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A SPACE
ODYSSEY Want To Go To Space? Here Are Your Options
While the Sputnik 1 launch on October 4, 1957 was a single event, it marked the start of what is known as the Space Age. This era reached its peak with the Apollo program. The landing of Apollo 11 on the moon on July 20, 1969, was broadcasted to over 500 million people around the world and is widely recognized as one of the defining moments of the 20th century. It made mission commander Neil Armstrong and pilot Buzz Aldrin, both Americans, part of mankind’s history. Yet, more than 60 years after the Russians put Sputnik in Orbit, going into space remains an extreme rarity .. and “Beam me up, Scotty” is as far away from us as the next galaxy.
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F
ewer than 600 people have gone above the ‘Kármán’ line — the point, about 62 miles above Earth, that marks the beginning of space —and all were put there by the U.S. or another nation’s government.
However, the space environment is no longer the sole preserve of government agencies, and with the rise of private spaceflight companies such as Virgin Galactic and Space X, the ‘final frontier’ may soon be within reach of a great many more of us. With projections putting the global space tourism market at more than $34 billion by 2021, several companies have announced plans for space tourism, hoping to offer orbital or suborbital flights within the next few years.
“Beers on Friday?” “Sorry guys, heading up to space, back next week.” If you ask us, the biggest benefit of going into space is to see our planet, our home, from a whole new perspective. Think about it. What appears so massive from down here will become a floating marble in a pretty big pond of almost nothing. Astronauts say that it is a perspective shift that will change your worldview forever, and scientists go a step further in saying it may be crucial to solving humanity’s biggest challenges over the next century.
So if you’re dreaming of the galaxy ‘far, far away,’ or simply want to see our Earth from, well, the other side, all it may take is a bit of patience – and money. A lot of it ... Initially, the cost of leaving Earth and heading into space is expected to cost in the hundreds of thousands of dollars, maybe even millions. Which will put the experience within reach of only the wealthiest of earthlings. But given the ever-increasing speed with which new technologies evolve, experts are predicting the cost to get to a point the point that people of more modest fortunes are able to afford the trip. We have looked into the most promising endeavours, and those that are still little more than a dream. So who’s closest to making space travel a reality, and who’s still a pie-in-the-sky fantasy (sorry, sci-fi – it is space, after all)? Here’s our space travel company showdown.
WHAT TO EXPECT So you call yourself a Trekkie? You love the transporter & the holosuite, and want to travel at Warp 9.9 (as you know Warp 9.99 is the beginning of Transwarp)? Or do you prefer the Star Wars universe and can’t wait to strap yourself into the Millennium Falcon as Chewbacca punches the hyperdrive? Well, we have to disappoint you here. Deep Space 9? Nope. A stroll on the moon? Nyet. A jaunt out to the I.S.S. to have coffee & a musical jam session with Commander Chris Hadfield? Nein. At least for now. There really is not that much in store for space tourists, at least in the next ‘little while.’ But if the excitement of a rocket ride and a chance to experience weightlessness works for you, then your chances just went up! And don’t forget the bragging rights!
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One man who has been to space, the billionaire computer engineer Charles Simonyi, famously said that “it’s great to go to space just because it’s there, but I think space is our destiny and we will discover great benefits from it.”
SpaceX SpaceX was founded in 2002 by Elon Musk. Yes, that Elon Mask, the guy that brought us the Tesla cars. An entrepreneur, engineer, inventor and investor. “With SpaceX we will revolutionize space technology, with the ultimate goal of enabling people to live on other planets”. His vision? To eventually establish a permanent, 80,000-person Martian colony. Well .. that’s pretty far-fetched, but guess what? SpaceX is already the world’s most high-profile commercial spaceflight company. In early February, Musk famously launched a red Tesla Roadster into space, atop the first Falcon Heavy rocket. By the way, you can follow its path
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through the Solar System at www.whereisroadster.com. The site gives you an idea of the car’s relative position and speed, the number of times the car has voided its 36,000 mile warranty, and even its equivalent fuel economy if it had traveled under its own power. So what’s next? In 2017, Musk unveiled BFR (“Big Falcon Rocket” - you can guess what that’s a pun on), which will be the largest rocket in history and will be fully reusable when it debuts in the early 2020s. SpaceX plans to launch its first crewed spacecraft, Dragon 2, on 17 January 2019. Stay tuned ... www.spacex.com
whom had booked rides at $200,000 each, that flights would begin in 2011. Numerous test flights and glide tests passed, and the flights got rescheduled to the end of 2013. It never happened. And after the disastrous in-flight loss of Virgin Galactic’s VSS Enterprise in October 2014, in which the co-pilot was killed and the pilot was gravely injured, the Virgin human spaceflight program was delayed again. The VSS Unity, the replacement spaceship of the VSS Enterprise, completed its first successful test glide in December 2016, and recently completed two successful, supersonic, rocket powered test flights. So, Virgin Galactic could actually be in space - with Richard Branson on board - in the very imminent future. www.virgingalactic.com
Blue Origin You have heard of Jeff Bezos, right? President Trump made sure of that, we guess. Jeff Bezos is the founder, chairman, and chief executive officer of Amazon, the world’s largest online retailer. He is also the world’s richest dude, with a net worth of $141.9 billion USD (Forbes, June 2018).
Sierra Nevada Corporation Never heard of it? This company is behind the Dream Chaser, a smaller, modern version of the defunct Space Shuttle that can take two to seven space travellers into orbit atop a standard rocket and then glide home, landing on commercial runways. Although this project is meant to serve NASA astronauts, Sierra Nevada will likely remain a player in private space, as they built the hybrid rockets used on Virgin Galactic’s suborbital spaceplane. www.sncorp.com
Virgin Galactic According to Wikipedia, “Virgin Galactic is a spaceflight company within the Virgin Group. It is developing commercial spacecraft and aims to provide suborbital spaceflights to space tourists and suborbital launches for space science missions.” Virgin Galactic has two sister companies – The Spaceship Company and Virgin Orbit. Sir Richard Branson, who founded Virgin Galactic in 2004, predicted in July 2008 the maiden space voyage to take place within 18 months. On December 7, 2009, SpaceShipTwo was unveiled, and Branson told the 300 people attending, each of
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Bezos founded Blue Origin, an aerospace company, in 2000. In April of this year, its passenger spaceship New Shepard 2.0, designed to fly six passengers in a crew capsule with six large windows to give wide views of Earth from space on suborbital space tourism flights, started a test flight carrying a dummy astronaut. It was the second flight after a successful test launch in December 2017, and the eighth test flight overall. After more test flights, Blue Origin could potentially begin launching people on New Shepard as early as the end of this year, and could have customers enjoy the thrill in 2020. www.blueorigin.com
Join the Space Force? Another way to get to space could be to join President Donald Trump’s just-announced new military branch, the “Space Force.” It .. nah, let’s not waste time and space here.
You can’t wait? Try Space Adventures! Space Adventures is a US-based space tourism company founded in 1998. According to their website, offerings include zero-gravity atmospheric flights, orbital spaceflights with the option to participate in a spacewalk, and other spaceflightrelated experiences. The company’s advisory
board includes Apollo 11 moonwalker Buzz Aldrin, and several Space Shuttle and SkyLab astronauts. As of June 2018, the company says they have arranged eight spaceflights for seven clients, who cumulatively spent over 80 days in space and travelled nearly 30 million miles in space. They even plan to bring you to the moon! Well, around the moon, making you become one of the first people to leave low-Earth orbit in over 40 years! Using flight-proven Russian space vehicles, you will come to within 100km of the moon’s surface and see the illuminated far-side of the moon, and then witness an “Earthrise’ - the amazing sight of the Earth rising above the moon’s surface. After a few delays they expect this mission to launch in the early 2020’s. It is said that two people have put a deposit down. A deposit on ... $150 Million. www.spaceadventures.com
There you go! Your biggest adventure could be closer than you had thought. It all depends on your bank account! Otherwise, a new Star Trek movie is expected for the summer of 2020, and in December 2019, J.J. Abrams will close out the Star Wars trilogy he kicked off with The Force Awakens.
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PAY it
Vancouver’s Philanthropists
FORWARD
ABDUL LADHA
U
Upon first meeting Abdul Ladha you are struck by his million-watt smile and the feeling that you are going to become fast friends. He is warm and personable with an easy laugh that makes you feel immediately comfortable. His reputation as one of Vancouver’s most successful businesspersons and philanthropists proceeds him. He spends his time with the likes of Bill Clinton, the Dalai Lama and Michelle Obama and so it is absolutely incredible to learn that Abdul first arrived in Canada as a penniless immigrant. In early August 1972, the President of Uganda, Idi Amin, ordered the expulsion of his country’s Asian minority, giving them 90 days to leave the country. Abdul’s wife Hanifa and he, both Ismaili Muslims, arrived in Canada that year, at the young age of 4 and 10 respectively. She was born in Uganda and he was born in Tanzania. They were amongst a class of 6000 refugees that were accepted by the Canadian government. Hanifa’s family had been forcefully expelled from Uganda, while Abdul’s left proactively over the ensuing turmoil and threat of war between Uganda and Tanzania. They met each other 20 years later and have now been married 25 years and have three wonderful children. Learning about Abdul’s childhood story of becoming a refugee and then a new immigrant to Canada seems aptly timed. With the daily news reports of ICE raids, children being ripped away from their parents in migrant detention centres and continued plans to spend billions of dollars on a border wall
Interview by Amanda Wood
between the US and Mexico it is easy to become discouraged with the current political climate of our neighbours to the South. Which is why I am so proud to be Canadian and to share more about Abdul’s incredible story of ‘rags to riches’ and how he is directly affecting positive change both in Vancouver, Canada and around the world. Upon entering Canada, Abdul’s parents focussed on one key objective – educating every one of their six children to the highest possible standard. His mother Gulnar worked tirelessly as a housemaid and his father Akber, a remarkable philosopher, explored new work opportunities. In his third year of electrical engineering at UBC, he formed his first company – Dexton Computers, a technology provider dedicated to the installation and support of network systems. Shortly after graduating, he was able to buy his parents a home and reaped some of the rewards of his hard work. When I asked Abdul if his path to success has been a straight line or a curvy one he replied, “My path in getting here has most definitely been curvy. Three factors have played a role in my success - a rigorous work ethic, tenacity and pure luck.” The company Dexton Computers subsequently evolved into Dexton Technologies Corporation and was rated in the Top 100 Public Companies List, ranking 2nd place in honourable mentions for a 900% asset growth in 1998. The company also ranked in Profit 100 and Canada’s Fastest Growing Companies list in 2000. In 1999 he became the President and
Chief Executive Officer of Ableauctions. com Inc. and directed the development of technology to broadcast auctions live over the Internet. Today, with the experience of over 3,000 auctions, Ableauctions is the pre-eminent supplier of live online auction technology and services to some of the world’s most prestigious galleries and industrial auction houses and operates one of the largest eBay Live Auction sales and support centers in the world. It is the only auction technology company to be endorsed by the National Auctioneers Association (NAA) and has partnered with eBay Live Auctions in streamlining the process of broadcasting auctions real-time on the Internet. Ableauctions’ technology enables auction houses to open their establishments to the world by allowing online bidders to participate in real-time on the auction floor. Abdul is also the founder and chairman of Overture Development Corporation, a property investment and development company whose driving force is a core of dedicated, hands-on management professionals whose experience spans decades of major construction in commercial and residential development. Through clear vision, innovation, progressive business practice and a highly committed team, the group has built up a large portfolio in the office and residential sectors since 1995 and is committed to developing strategically located and economically viable sites. It’s easy to get swept up in all of Abdul’s professional achievements but when you spend even a short amount of time with
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him it is clear that his family is his number one priority and joy along with his passion for giving back to his community both on a local and international scale. When he talks about his wife and kids there is a sparkle in his eye and softness in the tone of his voice. When you ask him about his foundations and philanthropic projects his pace of speech quickens as he excitedly shares about his passion projects. It’s easy to see that he applies himself full heartedly with whatever charity project, business venture or most importantly group of people he is involved with. I asked Abdul if he had always been philanthropic or if he had learned that skill set from his experiences on his path to success and he answered, “Giving was inherent in me, with values heavily instilled in me by my family and faith. The notion of philanthropy being embedded into my lifestyle, however, evolved over time. The key to the latter was having a childhood where I was on the receiving end of the generosity and compassion extended by countless individuals, organizations and government. I am still deeply grateful to those that assisted us.” Today, he looks at himself not particularly as a philanthropist, but as the emerging result and reflection of the countless people and organizations that invested in his family, his wife and himself at an early age. Abdul has given back in astonishing quantity by establishing buildings at universities, schools, institutions, hospital care rooms, and a variety of social and economic development foundations for the common good of all citizens regardless of their race or religion. Abdul also runs a number of programs, which are geared towards developing and cultivating youth. The Canadian Job Entry Re-entry program focuses on skill development. The Shad Valley Program developed young entrepreneurs. CITA, the Canadian Institute for Technological Advancement, cultivated advanced entrepreneurs.
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and social impact investing worldwide. When I asked Abdul about the specific catalyst for creating Spark he said, “The short answer is … my children. Additionally, religious practices are linked to a greater generosity in charitable giving and volunteering. With the declining impact of religion in today’s lifestyle, there are fewer factors influencing or teaching our youth about giving, and more influences on collecting wealth and leading an opulent lifestyle… my children being prime subjects.” With Spark, Abdul said that he has chosen to teach youth what he teaches his own children. “We focus on how to have impact in a given area, despite them perhaps not having personal wealth. We learn about the importance of giving, the difference between charity and philanthropy, the impact that philanthropy has on society, how foundations and corporations factor into this, and most importantly… how to develop a sense of purpose in their lives.” The Spark program marks the beginning of each student’s ability to purposefully and productively contribute to society. First, by making money, and secondly giving it away in a well thought out productive manner. Taking the long view, this program will no doubt change each participant’s very outlook on life. In 2014 and 2015, Abdul spearheaded a number of initiatives to benefit social programs that aid children and youth. These include the Lift The Children society, The Dalai Lama Center (DLC) for Peace and Education, Ceena Welfare and the John Volken Academy. Lift the Children is dedicated to seeking out the world’s most destitute children and helping provide them with the necessities, training, and inspiration they need to develop, grow, and become self-sufficient.
After realizing that all of these programs focus on developing the skills required for making money and none on the importance of giving some of it away, Abdul found a way in 2017 to combat this problem by founding the Spark Global Philanthropic Foundation (SPARK) to promote and teach strategic philanthropic practices that empower youth to understand and navigate charity.
Lift the Children Works in some of the poorest slums in the world to provide aid DIRECTLY to orphanages caring for their children. 100% of all donations go directly to the orphanages. Lift the Children is inclusive of all faiths and cultures and is committed to feeding and educating children and to LIFT them out of poverty. They are currently helping support over 10,000 children in more than 80 orphanages in East Africa and have begun to implement long-term self- sustainability programs with a goal of educating the poor out of poverty.
The non-profit federally registered society is dedicated to promoting philanthropy, charitable activities, strategic donating
Their strategy is to reorient the agriculture and farming systems currently in use towards methods of food production
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that are highly productive, sustainable, and drought resistant. Over time, these programs will help to provide mass poverty reduction through education. Their impressive goal is to educate over 2 million people in permaculture over the next 5 years. The Dalai Lama Center (DLC) for Peace and Education is a non-religious, nonpolitical, non-profit organization. As one of only four organizations worldwide personally endorsed by the Dalai Lama, the DLC has embarked on a strategy of supporting, encouraging, and leading a rising tide of awareness and action toward educating the hearts of children. Working with leaders in education, science, government, business, and philanthropy who understand the value of advancing heart-mind well- being, the Dalai Lama Center is focusing on programs that educate, convene, advise, and apply research. Abdul’s vision with the DLC is to cultivate a vibrant culture of peace and dialogue where caring communities nurture compassionate, thriving, socially responsible children who rise to the challenges and opportunities of the 21st Century. Abdul’s philanthropic reach is on a global scale but the Ladha family are also generous supporters and contributors to Vancouver’s community through Canucks Place, Children’s Hospice, B.C. Children’s Hospital, the Burnaby Association for Community Inclusion (BACI) program, the Aga Khan Development Network programs, Science World and The Lions Gate Hospice and The Lions Gate Hospital Foundation. Abdul’s journey perfectly embodies the Chinese Proverb, “Give a man a fish and he’ll eat for a day. Teach a man to fish and he’ll eat for a lifetime.” In Abdul’s case he is now paying it forward by teaching thousands of others to “fish” and leaving the world a better place because of his presence in it. Abdul is so grateful to Canada for welcoming his family into the country all those years ago but, it is we as a Nation who are the grateful ones. Kindness begets kindness and Abdul is constantly putting out sustainable acts of kindness, the positive ripple effects of which we will continue to experience as a global community long after we are all gone. Thank you, Abdul and Hanifa for all that you do. You make us all deeply proud to be Canadian.
out & about SPARK GALA PARQ VANCOUVER
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The Spark Global Philanthropic Foundation’s annual gala took place on Saturday, May 26th at Parq Vancouver. The celebration attracted nearly 400 of the country’s top philanthropists, business leaders and dignitaries and was an amazing success with over 1 million dollars raised. Proceeds from the gala support Spark’s empowerment programs that teach youth about philanthropy and support humanitarian aid and education for women, children and refugees worldwide. Notable speakers of the gala included, Ravi Singh, the CEO and Founder of Khalsa Aid, an organization that promotes philanthropy by providing aid to victims of war, natural disasters, poverty, and unimaginable suffering. The night also highlighted the emotional journey of Shakila Zareen, an advocate and survivor of violence against women in Afghanistan. Shakila was excited to announce she will be joining Spark as a student in the 2018-2019 program. A truly amazing evening. If you would like to learn more about Spark, visit their website www.sparkfoundation.com
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elegance with an
edge Michael Mee of Vancouver Jade words by Oliver Finlay | photography by Todd Duncan
IC: In ten words or less, who are you and what do you do?
MM: I grew up in Squamish and moved to Vancouver to study at UBC.
before developing an interest in Mining Engineering. As a student I worked doing exploration and early development work for small-scale mining companies in northern BC, including a jade project. After graduation I started a consulting company to provide technical services for the jade industry. After a few months we recognized a larger opportunity to improve the industry’s state of practice using creative engineering and marketing.
IC: How does a UBC engineering grad end up developing a passion for jade mining?
IC: What was your first business venture, how old were you when you did it and how successful was it?
MM: I first studied reclamation sciences
MM: Quartz Creek Development was my
MM: Mining Engineer (EIT) and co-founder and CEO of Vancouver Jade. IC: Where are you from and what brought you to Vancouver?
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first business venture. I started Quartz Development at 25, after graduating from UBC. In the first year, we completed 2 exploration programs, a technical report on small-scale jade development and a pilot project producing the first dimensional jade blocks as a proof of concept. We built the Vancouver Jade model on this work with much success. IC: Tell us about your current business project. MM: Vancouver Jade, a Vancouver startup, specializing in the mining, fabrication and provision of jade to businesses operating in the luxury market across
THE NEXT GENERATION VANCOUVER’S YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS
various industries including interior design, bespoke vehicle design and fashion. It was formed by the founders of the consultancy: myself, Justin Bunce, who has a history in jade mining and Shervin Teymouri, an adjunct professor at UBC. We were joined later by Dean Cloutier, the best-dressed man in East Van, who brought his unique designs for incorporating jade and his fabrication background to the team. IC: How did that idea come about? MM: We recognized early on that jade extraction in BC, despite producing 75% of the world’s nephrite, was catering to a limited market for carving and jewellery quality material in China. Most value for the product was accrued overseas, with seasonal dependency and limited market size stemming innovative development here in Canada. As a result, jade mining practices remained rudimentary, inefficient and costly. One problem that arose during our
consulting work in evaluating jade resources was that there is no set quantification or qualification standard for jade, which meant there was no way in attributing any value to a jade resource, even after determining its size. This was amplified by a project’s reliance on only 3-5% of all it’s material being of jewellery or carving quality. Thus, investing in jade was a gamble. There are only a few who have made the existing model work, by focusing on demand through a yearly auction system. So, we looked at demand as well. If we could find a way to utilize the remaining 95% of mined jade, not only would we be able to pursue a method for quantification and qualification, but we could make use of all the existing stockpiled waste material that was deemed unsuitable for the current market. After much research and modelling we decided that the luxury dimensional stone market was the solution. We would extract dimensional blocks from in-situ deposits with wire saws instead of ripping and blasting the
material, keeping it intact for downstream processing into slabs. These slabs, along with several luxury product lines, would be marketed as an emerging luxury stone product, primarily in North America and Europe where the market was exhibiting impressive growth. We would reclaim and quarry material once demand increased. We have worked hard to develop a wholly unique, luxury brand that emphasizes our complete control of the process from ground-totable, giving the care and attention worthy of such a rare gemstone. IC: So, what are the unique qualities of BC jade and how are you hoping to affect the global jade industry? MM: There are two types of jade: nephrite and jadeite. Jadeite is highly sought after due to its visual and physical characteristics and is primarily sourced from Myanmar. Jadeite mining is an excellent example of the worst mineral resource extraction the industry has ICONIC CONCIERGE
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and push innovation in the resource sector, hopefully connecting end-users to the source of other commodities (copper, gold etc.). Or perhaps our creative engineers will be at forefront of space mining. Why not dream big? IC: Who are your mentors? MM: I spent most of my youth working with my father. He is a millwright by trade and worked as a general contractor, in heavy industry and residential construction. We were always building something, from go-karts, to my first vehicle, to houses. I probably wouldn’t have pursued engineering if it wasn’t for those early experience building things and solving practical problems. I would also say that on a day-to-day basis, the handson skills he passed on to me are worth more than my engineering degree. Michael Mee with business partner Dean Cloutier
to offer. High rates of child labor, drug abuse, terribly unsafe working conditions and on-going political and racial conflict has done little to curb demand. Nephrite was the preferred stone of more ancient dynasties before demand shifted to jadeite, due to dwindling supply in China. It is now primarily sourced from Russia and Canada - mostly from Northern British Columbia. It is still a rare commodity, though much less so then jadeite, has a long history in BC and is the Province’s provincial gemstone. It is found in various shades of green, is incredibly tough, translucent and versatile. Its interlocking crystal structure gives it unparalleled tensile properties and ability to dissipate light within the material making it perfect for back lighting. It knocks the socks off any other stone in the luxury segment, which consists of rare marbles and granites, some onyx, sodalite and other engineered (glued-together) products such as agate and turquoise. IC: From a business perspective, what opportunities does being based in Vancouver provide for you at the moment? MM: Vancouver is a global hub for luxury brands but has yet to produce any distinct products of its own. Vancouver Jade aims to be one of the first to capitalize on this unique opportunity.. Right now we’re focused on building relationships with established companies in Vancouver’s luxury space. These relationships create a unique connection between responsibly sourced Canadian resources and locally
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crafted products.. IC: What have been the biggest challenges you’ve overcome in the project so far? MM: Building a start-up in the resource sector is challenging. Few junior mining companies survive and thrive in today’s resource landscape and most junior mining companies are focused only on exploration. The first step was developing a company that not only handled exploration, but also operations and manufacturing. An even greater challenge for someone with a technical background was expanding the business into a luxury brand pre-revenue. It was crazy, but it worked. IC: What do you foresee the biggest challenges facing your business over the next 12 months? MM: Scaling up while increasing the efficiency of our vertical model will be difficult, but we’re ready for the challenge. IC: What are your ambitions for the business over the next 1, 5 and 10 years? MM: Over the next year our goal is to foster long-standing, business-to-business relationships with a select group of luxury companies, with ties to Vancouver. Within 5 years, I’d like to see us emerge as the first luxury resource-based company since the “diamonds are forever” campaigns of the 1900s. Perhaps in 10 years we’ll spin off our resource division
IC: Are there any other businesses that you look at, take ideas from, and incorporate them into how you run your company? MM: Mining has shaped our country and the world. I’m proud of our industry here in Canada and its achievements in stewardship and responsibility. There are many Canadian resource companies today that provide an interesting look at what it takes to build such large enterprises based on sound scientific and economic principles. The Debeers diamond campaign of the 1900s has influenced our business model, but we strive to develop a more altruistic model. Dean and I have also pulled influence from many of the luxury companies we admire, from Omega, to Rolls Royce, to Stefano Ricci. IC: Thanks for your honest and insightful answers, Mike. Now, all that is left, is for you dig deep (please excuse the terrible pun) and answer Iconic Concierge’s ...
‘Completely Unrelated, but Nevertheless Entertaining Standard 10 Questions’… IC: You lose everything you own. How do you rise like a phoenix from the ashes? MM: This pretty much happened quarterly during start-up. We have resurrection down to a science. 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? MM: I’d make my closest friends and family very happy, fully fund the business and invest the remainder. I’d probably get a Jag too. 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? MM: The Prime Minister of Canada, The President of the United States of America, The Foreign Affairs Minister of Canada, The US Secretary of Commerce…and Dennis Rodman If anyone can get both sides of NAFTA back to the table, it’s our boy Dennis. IC: All work and no play, hey Mike? Glad to see you’re taking Canada’s trade issues upon your shoulders. Thanks for that. Moving on…what was your first car, what do you drive now and what is your dream car? MM: My first car was a1984 Toyota Landcruiser but I now drive a Ford Ranger. My dream car is a British Racing Green, Jaguar E-Type IC: What one piece of advice would you give to your 16-year-old self? MM: Stick with piano. IC: Who would play you in a movie about your life? MM: I would love to see Idris Alba in flannel, with a Canadian accent. IC: Where is your favourite travel destination and why? MM: Chile – beautiful and diverse landscapes, great people, a well-developed resource industry, many renewable energy projects and some of the clearest skies on earth if you like astronomy. IC: Tell me your favourite joke… MM: None of my jokes are appropriate for print… IC: Where is your favourite Vancouver restaurant? MM: Red Rose Restaurant – The butter chicken is phenomenal. IC: Complete the sentence: “Vancouver is a great place for entrepreneurs in 2018, because…” MM: …it is a city with an emerging identity of its own and a gateway to the most beautiful, resource-rich country on earth. IC: Mike, it’s been a pleasure to sit down with you and learn more about a truly British Columbian venture. Thanks for your time and all the best in your future journey.
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TOTAL CYCLING
STEALTH B-52
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THE NEED FOR SPEED The Fastest Production eBikes - An Editor’s Choice
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VINTAGE ELECTRIC TRACKER
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58 km/h
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OUTRIDER ALPHA Estimated Speed
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TOTAL CYCLING ICONIC CONCIERGE
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STRETCH YOUR MIND STRETCH YOUR STRETCH YOUR MIND MIND 92
ICONIC CONCIERGE
Be a Man - Take Control of your Mind, Body & Soul words: Oliver Finlay
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contributors: Marcus Tong, Lisa Sanson, Lucy St John, Rachel Scott, Jasmina Egeler
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photographer: Todd Duncan
he fitness industry is constantly launching the latest new fad, the next best diet and the “long- awaited” panacea for all of life’s ailments, which allegedly requires less effort and less time but costs more money than all that have gone before.
In contrast, yoga, in its various forms, has been around for centuries. Granted there have been different evolutionary stages and a variety of disciplines have supplemented the ancient forms along the way but the general principles, are the same. Handed down from generation to generation, yoga provides an all inclusive movement and mental health practice that people of all ages, shapes and fitness backgrounds, can benefit from. Whilst the current perception of yoga in Vancouver is often one of rooms full of skinny, Kitsilano twenty or thirty somethings, clad in Lululemon’s latest stretchy pants and morphing into improbable shapes, whilst chanting “om”, the reality couldn’t be further from the truth. Step inside your local yoga studio and you will find beginners practising alongside experienced yogis, elderly men exploring their movement limits and expectant mothers doing what their body allows during their current stage of pregnancy. Meanwhile, across the floor, stressed out office executives are seeking a release from their daily desk routine and young college athletes are recovering from their last game, in the hope of reducing their risks of injury. The one commonality is that everyone in attendance is working comfortably at their own level of ability and focusing on their individual physical and mental needs, with the aim of maintaining or enhancing their physical and mental fitness, wellbeing and performance. In an attempt to remove the cloak of mystery that can often enshroud yoga for those daunted by the prospect of stepping foot inside a studio, Iconic Concierge has enlisted the help of some of Vancouver’s most experienced teachers. We will explain the basic theory behind the, often confusing, menu of different yoga disciplines and highlight the benefits you can expect from each one.
Marcus Tong - Hot Yoga Hot yoga is a sequence of alignment-based postures, done in a room heated to approximately 40℃. This gentle practice, comprises low-impact postures, performed at a steady pace, thus suiting both beginners and experienced practitioners. I like the heat. It challenges both mind and body but warms the muscles and joints. This allows for easier movement, increasing flexibility, whilst allowing for a deeper and safer stretch. The heat is a great tool for releasing existing muscle tension from cross-training or everyday life. You sweat from start to finish and by the end of class, your body feels relaxed but also like it has been through an intense workout. Hot yoga helps achieve or maintain optimal health and increase overall well-being. This style promotes weight-loss; improves balance and flexibility; aids injury rehabilitation and cross-training; whilst reducing stress. If you love a good sweat, hot yoga is for you!
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Lisa Sanson - Hatha Yoga Hatha yoga is a relatively slow movement practice linking various poses together, in order to build strength and flexibility. Hatha helps develop greater mobility, with an emphasis on postural alignment, which helps improve body awareness in space and is transferrable off the yoga mat into sports and activities of daily living. The style encompasses breathing techniques, which support cardiovascular conditioning and the control, valuable for regulating the nervous system. A balanced nervous system and a strong body is important for anyone hoping to transform their body - whether recovering from injury, changing dysfunctional movement patterns, or simply moving with more ease. In my opinion, hatha yoga is a great compliment to other physical activities or stands alone as well-rounded exercise regime.
Rachel Scott - Flow Yoga Flow is a moving style of yoga, incorporating movement from one pose to another at a moderate pace, which promotes blood flow, joint mobility and flexibility. Flow encourages concentration on breathing, which can decrease stress levels. Moving continuously through space, the practice helps body coordination, spatial awareness, balance and strength. The style often incorporates “sun salutations” (a position through which the individual moves from standing on the mat to their stomach, which includes push-ups), which help build strength in both the upper and lower body. As someone who has an anxious, busy mind, I love how a Flow practice puts me immediately in touch my body and breath. You can’t be stuck in your head when you’re not sure what’s coming next. Are you looking to get out of your head and into your body? Are you looking to improve both mobility and strength? Are you looking to learn how breathing can help destress in a challenging practice? Then Flow is the style for you.
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Lucy St John - Yin Yoga Yin yoga is a slow-paced class which holds seated and reclined poses for long periods of time, allowing a focus on breath, mindfulness and relaxation. Yin yoga compliments both active and sedentary lifestyles. Unlike traditional Yoga, yin exercises joints, bones and connective tissue, subsequently increasing joint mobility, bone density and tendon health and thus indirectly makes muscles more resilient. The result is refined body awareness, a feeling of spaciousness and stress reduction. I personally like the mental benefits of Yin, by taking an hour to slow down and focus on relaxing, it helps me achieve mental clarity and sleep better. My body is strong and supple, so I’m less prone to getting injured and quicker to heal if I do. If you’re an athlete, injured or spend all day sitting, yin yoga will benefit your musculoskeletal system, whilst the focus on breath and mindfulness suits those that are looking to relax and reduce stress. Yin yoga benefits all ages and physical abilities.
Jasmina Egeler - Power Yoga Power yoga is a physically demanding, athletic practice, which includes strengthening components and longer holds of poses. Arm balances are often included, which can be fun and motivating. It definitely requires a willingness to work hard and step out of your comfort zone. Expect fire. I like that power yoga is ultimately about empowering the practitioner and through repetitive, enthusiastic practice, the impossible becomes possible. Initially downward facing dog seems daunting and challenging, then at some point, downward facing dog becomes the entry into handstands. Power yoga is about getting in the ‘zone’ quieting the mind through the physicality of the practice and breath awareness. The complete focus on what is happening in the moment, gives respite from the busyness of the mind. The physical practice of yoga is different from other physical workouts. It is more of a ‘work in’; keeping the breath balanced, whilst staying grounded and ultimately keeping the nervous system in the relaxation response.
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In addition to the styles we have reviewed, if you would like to try yoga for yourself and are researching what is available your neighbourhood studio, you may also see these other styles advertised: • • • • •
Ashtanga (like Vinyasa flow but the poses are always the same and performed in the same order); Bikram (like hot but the poses are always the same and performed in the same order); Iyengar (a style with meticulous attention paid to the alignment of each pose); Restorative (characterised by predominantly passive poses, held for sustained periods of time, which may or may not be preceded by gentle active movements, with the aim of promoting relaxation and rest) Kundalini (concentrates on posture and breathing to reduce stress, whilst improving sleep, immune function and creativity)
In any case, take the time to speak to the teachers, explain what you are looking for out of the practice and what your current lifestyle involves. This will help them direct you to a class that will serve your needs, whilst suiting your level of ability and fitness. Iconic Concierge would like to thank YYOGA and the teachers that contributed to the article. YYOGA has studios in Kitsilano, Yaletown, Downtown, South Granville, North Vancouver, Park Royal, Highgate, Richmond and Whistler. For more information go to www.yyoga.ca
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location: Hi-Fi Centre Vancouver headphones: Focal Clear
business
women of
VANCOUVER
10 QUESTIONS FOR ...
Jill Sinclair
Author (Date Did What?) | Talk Show Host | Business Coach
1. What has been your most epic adventure? I traveled to 7 Asian countries and encountered sea snakes, pirates, sharks and orangutans. I’d say that’s pretty epic, it’s crazy that I’m still alive. 2. What do you like most about Vancouver? I love views and being outdoors, so every day being able to enjoy our mountains and the ocean is pretty amazing. But don’t peg me as a camper - THAT’S never gonna happen! 3. Favourite restaurants? Savio Volpe and Legendary Noodle, clearly a carb lover. At Savio, I always sit at the bar and get entertained by Pasta Boy Peter he’s amazing. Legendary Noodle was one of the first house-made noodle joints in Vancouver, and their noodles are just the right doughy firmness. 4. What’s your favourite kind of music? I’m a rocker chick at heart, but that doesn’t mean that I don’t do some off-key singing to some Despacito in the car when the mood strikes. 5. Who do you admire and why? I’d say Ellen is a big one for me. She had to rebuild her career after the infamous coming out episode and subsequent cancellation of her other TV show. She could have easily gotten bitter and gone into obscurity, but she came back strong and true to herself and look at her enormous success. 6. Drink of choice? Red wine is my go-to, but I do love a smooth scotch with a cigar. Speaking of that, I’m actually co-hosting Smoke on the Water - a scotch and cigar night on a yacht September 12th. It’s going to be top shelf and invitation only, and I’m going to be very choosy who I invite. 7. When you’re not coaching, writing or hosting your shows, what are you doing? Oh, with ALL the spare time I have? Haha! Well, I volunteer with Variety the Children’s Charity, a wonderful organization that’s all about the kids. I also just found out about Rainbow Refugee which provides support and assistance for LGBTQ asylum seekers and refugee claimants that are in life threatening situations. It’s appalling how some countries are treating people just because of their sexual orientation. It’s unacceptable and I’m grateful to be able to bring awareness and boots on the ground to help. 8. The one piece of advice you would give to your younger self? Oh, gosh, believe in yourself. Believe and do. You first have to form the thought and then get into action. 9. Are you a fan of plastic surgery? Well, I’ve been know to get a little “vitamin B” every once in a while. I say, do what makes YOU feel good, it’s your body. 10. After two books and a talk show, what’s next? I’m in talks with some tv producers about a couple projects that are quite fun. It’s all about getting yourself out there and creating. I love it!
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WHAT WOMEN WANT...
Summer is here! The sun is shining, the birds are chirping, and the water is finally warming up. Love is most definitely in the air! If you’re looking for ways to shower your better half with love…. look no further! We’ve selected the most elegant, fresh and luxurious pieces for Summer 2018. We’ve also included a dreamy vacation that will delight wine lovers - and wine novices alike!
GUCCI PURSUIT BOW SLIDES - $718.00 CAD Have you and your lady been lounging poolside all summer long?! Are you beach goers? Or does your hunny simply love to kick back and relax? If you answered YES to any of those questions, these Gucci Slides are a must-have. These sandals feature Gucci’s signature colour scheme and a feminine bow. She won’t want to wear another pair of sandals for the rest of summer - we promise!
BVLGARI SERPENTI TUBOGAS ~ $12,000 CAD Although around since the 1940s, the Serpenti Tubogas has evolved over the decades. This year, Bulgari released several new versions of this iconic watch. Pictured is a single spiral watch in stainless steel with brilliant cut diamonds, red lacquered dial, and a crown set with a cabochon cut pink rubellite. Get your woman one of the most iconic ladies’ watches of all time!
LA PRAIRIE CELLULAR SERUM PLATINUM RARE - $1,068.00 CAD Are you in love with a skin-care goddess?! The La Prairie Cellular Serum Platinum Rare is enriched with colloidal platinum that aids in restoring the skin’s electrical balance. There is nothing more luxurious than using precious metals during your bedtime regime. The final result? Brighter, firmer, and younger skin! That’s a gift no woman can refuse. ;)
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PRADA BLACK NYLON BACKPACK - $18,90.00 CAD Summer is the time for long walks, adventures and travelling. Although your darling may have ample purses, this gorgeous Prada Black Nylon Backpack is exactly what she needs to arrive in style! This backpack features leather buckles, studs and a contemporary design. This Prada piece combines functionality with fashion - allowing your loved one to look chic and STYLISH no matter what the occasion is. Glamping, anyone?!
The Ultimate Romantic Getaway DONNAFUGATA, ITALY Everyone needs to go on an unforgettable summer vacation…. and we’ve already found you the perfect one! The Donnafugata company was created by Giacomo Rallo and his wife Gabriella. Their family had over 160 year of experience in the craftsmanship of wine…. visiting Donnafugata is on every wine lover’s bucket list! In the 2016 harvest, Donnafugata created wines under Etna, Cerasuolo and Frappato di Vittoria denominations. This has added another level of prestige to their products. There are a variety of tastings that lead to finding other 5 Donnafugata Collections. This includes: Icon Wines, Mediterranean Elegance, Versatile Rich in Character and Fresh and Informal, Surprising Wines. For information on how to book tastings, go to visit.donnafugata.it/en-us/Booking. Some of the following activities that you - and your lady - can participate in while in Italy: THE MARSALA TASTING EXPERIENCE - Icon Wine Tasting This is the best perfect option for those who are seeking an exclusive experience This unique journey features a tour the winery’s historic reserves of the Donnafugata Icon Wines, the winery’s production areas, the underground barrique cellar, and Sala delle Botti. Before the tour is completed, you will taste two vintages of Mille e una notte, Donnafugata’s red, and two vintages of Ben Ryé Passito di Pantelleria, one of the highest-esteemed Italian sweet wines in the entire world! VENUS LAKE A mere four miles east of the town of Pantelleria lays a lake that is solely fed by rainwater and hot springs. It is only a mile in circumference and at its maximum depth it is 39 feet. Venus Lake features azure blue water and its temperatures ranging from 65°F to 133°F. The banks of Venus Lake are made of mud that is renowned for its rejuvenating properties. Delicacies you simply can’t miss: “Pane and Panelle” are a classic example of “street food”. After Porta Garibraldi, seek a deep frying shop near to the stairs of the fish market. Another typical fare of the tip of western Sicily is the fish couscous. This arab heritage dish is both tasty and flavourful. The couscous consists of grains of durum wheat semolina which are steamed in a broth of fish and shellfish! This dish borrows ingredients from all varieties of Mediterranean cuisine. You can find this dish in the cities of Marsala and Trapani. PANTELLERIA VINEYARDS The winery on Pantelleria is located in the Khamma district and it openly welcomes wineaficionados in the summertime! The picturesque vineyard setting is so romantic for a pair of lovers. You’ll also have the opportunity to view the revered giardino pantesco (Pantellerian garden) and the alberello-trained vines.
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WHAT’S REALLY GOING ON WITH
VANCOUVER’S LUXURY HOUSING MARKET?
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The spring of 2016 seems like a very, very long time ago for owners of luxury homes who are trying to sell in today’s market. Gone are the long lines of buyers with subject-free offers. Instead, buyers are patiently waiting on the sidelines to see where this market will end up at the conclusion of 2018. West Vancouver and Vancouver West are the pillars of the Vancouver luxury real estate market, and each of these areas has been hit hard here in 2018. With MLS data going back to 1991, both West Vancouver and Vancouver West have had their lowest number of sales (detached) every month thus far in 2018. To illustrate this further, West Vancouver has had 160* sales year to date, whereas the average since 1991 during this time frame is 426, and the average in the past 3 years is 477. The lowest number of sales in one year was 456 (2008), and given that we are already past the half way point of 2018, I predict that this record will be shattered by the end of the year. As it relates to Vancouver West, there have been 379* sales year to date, whereas the average since 1991 during this timeframe is 957. The average in the past 3 years is 931 and the lowest number of sales in one year was also in 2008 with 1024 total sales. There has been a standoff between buyers and sellers for the past 12-18 months, with sellers digging in their heels for a price that simply isn’t market value anymore, and buyers looking for an unrealistic hair cut off the price. The response to this standoff is that we are seeing in the first half of 2018 significant price reductions in the upper luxury market as well as the final sales prices being well below the list price. Will this continue? Given the lack of sales and increasing inventory, it would be safe to assume that
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by Jesse Dean Cook
Written by Amanda Wood & Jesse Dean Cook
prices will continue to fall, especially for properties in less desirable areas. Add-in the countless government interventions in the last 24 months and there is no sign that this market will improve anytime soon. From a buyer’s perspective, this is an excellent opportunity to strike incredible deals with sellers who are truly motivated to sell. Many sellers are simply testing the market and do not need to sell, especially if it is their primary residence. However, for many reasons there are some sellers who have to sell, and if you can identify these properties, especially if they are in A+ locations, do not be afraid to lob over an offer as you’d be surprised what an over leveraged seller might agree to. I have seen a number of shocking sales prices for incredible homes in recent months. It is human nature to want to buy low and sell high. But, to try and time the bottom of the market is very difficult if not impossible to execute. Once it bottoms out and starts to increase again there will be a ton of buyers once again in the mix leading to multiple-offers and overpayment of the asset. If you, as a buyer can go in at this time with no competition and negotiate an excellent price, the market will eventually go up again and you’ll have a prime asset in your portfolio. If you are looking at purchasing a luxury property and need assistance in navigating thru this tumultuous market, please do not hesitate to contact me directly at anytime. Jesse@JesseDeanCook.com | +1-604-506-5174 | JesseDeanCook.com *Number of MLS detached sales based on January 1, 2018 – June 30, 2018
Just Listed - $2,349,000
Sold - Offered at $5,495,000
502 - 475 13th Street, West Vancouver
4391 Rockride Road, West Vancouver
Sold - Offered at $6,900,000
Sold - Offered at $6,500,000
504 - 1355 Bellevue Avenue, West Vancouver
1408 Sandhurst Place, West Vancouver
Sold - Offered at $2,998,000
Sold - Offered at $2,298,000
822 E17th Street, North Vancouver
402 - 475 13th Street, West Vancouver
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EXCLUSIVE VANCOUVER DREAM ESTATES
A SENSATIONAL NEW MODERN DREAM HOME WITH SPECTACULAR CITY AND OCEAN VIEWS - 3325 CRAIGEND RD, WEST VANCOUVER
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This spectacular newly built, family residence is located in one of the most desirable and coveted neighborhoods of West Vancouver. Designed by one of Vancouver’s premier architects and interior designers this stunning and luxuriously appointed residence offers approximately six thousand square feet of spacious living and was created to offer a wonderful indoor outdoor lifestyle. The home is beautifully designed throughout and features a covered outdoor pool-side terrace, outdoor lounge area, fireplace and a heated infinity negative edge swimming pool, all while looking out upon stunning ocean views. A fabulous Living and separate Dining area are perfectly designed for entertaining with direct access to the poolside side lounge area and all while featuring marble detailing and wonderful hardwood floors creating a sophisticated and luxurious effect.
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An impressive gourmet kitchen with expansive center island and all top grade stainless steel appliances sits adjacent to a spacious eating area and adjoining family room with built in flat screen and fireplace. Additional rooms on the lower floor include a large media room, recreation and games room, wine cellar, sauna, and en-suited bedroom. Above, lies four generous bedrooms including a sensational Master Suite with a large balcony overlooking the city and water, walk-in dressing room and five piece en-suited bathroom. The exceptional quality and attention to detail is evident throughout the entire home and must be seen to be appreciated. A covered, pool and garden-side terrace with a summer lounge area, fireplace and extensive night lighting throughout truly work together to create a sensational evening setting.
MALCOLM HASMAN www.malcolmhasman.com
VANCOUVER’S TOP SELLING LUXURY AGENT Angell Hasman & Associates (Malcolm Hasman) Realty Ltd.
1555 Marine Drive, West Vancouver
604.290.1679
Built: 2017 | Lot Size: 11,892 SQ FT | Floor Size: 5,908 SQ FT | 5 Bedrooms | 6.5 Bathrooms
$8.288 MILLION
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A PORSCHE FOR THE
OCEAN The Dynamiq GTT 115 Hybrid by Studio F.A. Porsche The 115-foot (35 metres) Dynamiq GTT (Grand Turismo Transatlantic) is built at the Monaco-based firm’s shipyard in Viareggio, Italy. Designed by Studio F.A. Porsche, this superyacht clearly shows recognizable design cues like the Targa-style mullions and transom that looks like its Mission E concept. And if you’ve seen the latest 911R, you’ll notice the Pepita houndstooth pattern on the fabric centres of the deck cushions, a nod to the limited-edition sports car. “The GTT 115 is designed to appeal to car lovers and forwardthinking yacht owners who appreciate the advantages of speed, style, and our philosophy of intelligent performance,” says Roland Heiler, managing director of Studio F.A. Porsche. The interior comes in three or four cabin guise, with Italian furniture
designed by Minotti. Brown and beige are prominent colours throughout, with the exception of the carbon fibre details. The yacht comes in signature Porsche Carrera white, Rhodium Silver, Chalk, or custom Monte-Carlo blue exteriors. It is powered by Twin 1213kW MAN engines with Fortjes 5000 pods which propel the superyacht up to a top speed of 21 knots, while at lower speeds, a range of up to 3,400 nautical miles means crossing the Atlantic and many other bodies of water is within the GT115 Hybrid’s reach. Twin 45kW/ 60 hp Fischer Panda generators in the bow create a quieter yacht at night and zero fumes at anchor for anyone using the aft beach club. Just seven GTT 115 Hybrid will be made – available within 15 months of the order date. The price? The GTT 115 will start around $15m, and thanks to an online configurator, the proud owners can create the yacht of their dreams, quickly and easily online.
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out & about CANADA DAY CELEBRATION VICTORIA INTERNATIONAL MARINA
Was an amazing Canada Day! Victoria under dark blue skies, the warm sun, and tens of thousands of people roaming the streets and Inner Harbour. We had teamed up with the new Victoria International Marina, to celebrate the day in style. Two supercars, a Rolls-Royce and the Sealegs Amphibious boat (which we tried out in the morning, both on land and in the water!) welcomed the VIP guests to an evening filled with delicious food, some fine spirits, live entertainment and some of the best seats to watch the fireworks. If you are in the area, definitely check out their new location. Great architecture, and very soon you will see superyachts up to 180’ long in their marina. The new restaurant, Boom & Batten, is scheduled to open early next year. We can’t wait! And should you live in Victoria - swing by to get your copy of our newest edition.
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CITY tonight!
O ur
by Jim Gordon & Leeta Liepins
The Iconic Concierge Magazine version of the weekly TV show, “Our City Tonight”, which can be seen Saturdays at 9:30am and 12:30am Sundays on JoyTV. Follow them on Twitter, FB, Instagram & YouTube @Ourcitytonight
958 MAIN ST | VANCOUVER | 778-903-2006 | www.torafuku.ca
TORAFUKU
Until a few years ago, the area of Main Street between the Science World Skytrain stop and the Viaduct into the city would never have seriously been considered as a hot spot for urban foodies. Recently however, good luck and providence have intervened on their behalf, as an increasingly interesting number of small, cozy spots has emerged. In 2015, award-winning Chef Clement Chan opened Torafuku. It offered a dazzling, adventurous, and (happily) affordable selection of pan Asian flavours. Restaurant awards quickly adorned their nascent success. The Our City Tonight intrepids decided to see what 3 years had done to and for this establishment. Spoiler alert: It was one of the most memorable meals we’ve had in 2018! We astutely heeded the advice of GM Steve Kuan, and chose two of their signature cocktails: “People’s Cocktail” (with Beefeater gin, cucumber, elderflower, ginger and lemon) and “Kanpai Negroni” (Chrysanthemum infused Tanqueray gin, Campari, sweet vermouth, and plum sake). Both were equally orgasmic to the palate. That said, the cocktail list does offer something for everyone. Local and international beers, Sake (they are committed to increasing the presence of this libation on their drinks menu) and wine. And although the wine list is not large, we were served several tasting selections which blended nicely with our food. At Torafuku, the maxim “Sharing is Caring” dominates the proceedings. That was certainly our plan, beginning with: “Everyday I’m Brusselin’ ” – a delicious mix of Brussel sprouts, cauliflower, broccoli, black bean balsamic vinaigrette, crispy chick peas and toasted almonds. This is without a doubt, one of their most popular dishes. “We have people who come in just for this item,” GM Steve Kuan confirms. Next up was: “Dropping Mad Beets”, a vegan option. Roasted golden beets, “Mizukan” pickled red beets, maitake & shitake mushrooms, candied walnuts, kale and torched burrata (everything is local except for the burrata which was from Italy). Delicious! The second Vegan option came next, and it was another winner: “24 Carrot Gold”. EVOO Confit, miso, baby carrots, sauté mushrooms, baby spinach roasted potatoes, toasted hazelnuts, all topped with a gorgeous green goddess dressing. Our last shared dish was “The Donald” (named after the duck, not the current occupant of the White House). This composition consisted of grilled five spice duck breasts (prepared medium rare), shaved foie gras, compressed beets, roasted cauliflower & puree, ginger, and stinging nettle spatzle. The veteran epicure always concedes that duck can be a risky order. Unless it is prepared by the initiated, it very often is presented as a dish simply too greasy to be properly enjoyed. To our delight, “The Donald” was perfectly prepared, and would in our opinion easily rival “Everyday I’m Brusselin’ ” for top honours. (Kudos must be given to Sous Chef Sandy Chen who easily handled our no gluten and no garlic request). Happy Hour: 530-7pm, 9pm-close Tasting Menu available
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Chef Clement Chan and his talented team have created and continue to maintain something special at Torafuku. Three years on, they continue to excel in offering an extraordinary evening of culinary delight.
2018
The Porsche Weekend September 22 nd & 23 rd
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The new Continental GT.
Be Extraordinary.
Elegant and exhilarating, this is the ultimate grand tourer. Discover more at www.bentleyvancouver.ca or call 604.730.8998 The name ‘Bentley’ and the ‘B’ in wings device are registered trademarks. © 2018 Bentley Motors Limited. Model shown: Continental GT.
BENTLEY VANCOUVER