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Le Vian Continues Its Centuries-Old Heritage of Creating Timeless Jewelry. 40
Vegas’s 2024 COUTURE Show Calls to Mind Universal Themes, Captivating Color, and Larger Than Life Design. 46
The Best Places to Stay and Dine in the Famed City by the Bay.
Lilium’s
Aston Martin’s F1-Inspired SUV, the
is Both
Advances in
Simulators Bring the
50
This Luxurious Resort Puts All the Wonders of the Napa Valley Right at Your Fingertips. 52
Experience Ancient Culture, Luxury and Serenity at this Himalayan Haven. 58
These Sun Splashed Greek Islands Mesmerize Visitors on Land and at Sea.
Leading a Successful Business is Much Like Conducting an Orchestra.
92 THE GEN Z DILEMMA Is Renting or Owning the American Dream?
Focusing on Your Highest Values and Priorities Can Lead to Fulfillment.
96 L UXE CALENDAR
Listing all of the “Must Attend” luxury events in the coming months.
Fall
62 LIGHT AND SIGHT
The Evolution of Superyacht Design and Sustainability by Nuvolari Lenard.
66 ELEVATING EXPECTATIONS
Steve Aoki’s instruments of accomplishments, efforts, and wayfaring.
72 MADE IN AMERICA
How Patrick Bet-David Built Two Nine-Figure Businesses From Scratch.
78 RENAISSANCE ON THE GREENS
Tiger Woods’ and TGR Design’s New Era of Golf Architecture.
82 THE SOUL OF A BRAND
Guido Terreni, CEO of Swiss Watchmaker
Parmigiani Fleurier, Focuses on the Essence of Private Luxury.
84 DRIVEN BY DESIGN
Car-Branded Residences Appeal to Luxury Automotive Enthusiasts.
At Aviara, our vision is to give forward-thinking boaters what they’ve always wanted—style, control, and luxury on their own terms.
As we approach the close of another remarkable year, I am pleased to welcome you to our latest issue, crafted with inspiration and innovation to help you plan for an extraordinary 2025. This edition is brimming with stories and insights designed to elevate your lifestyle, and I’m confident it will leave you both informed and inspired.
Our cover story highlights a journey that embodies the quintessential American dream. Entrepreneur Patrick Bet-David, a true self-made success, rose from humble beginnings in Iran to build an empire in the United States. After serving in the U.S. Military, he founded a financial services company and is now a renowned podcast host, content creator, author, speaker, and visionary behind Valuetainment Media. His story, filled with perseverance and passion, is an unmissable testament to the power of ambition and resilience.
For those with a taste for cutting-edge transportation, our feature on the Lilium Jet, an electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) prototype, offers a glimpse into the future of flight. On the ground, Aston Martin redefines the luxury SUV with an F-1-inspired model that masterfully blends sophistication with power. And when it’s time to park that automotive masterpiece, why not consider a car-branded luxury residence where the art of living meets the art of driving? For sea enthusiasts, we explore how Nuvolari Lenard is revolutionizing the superyacht industry, pushing the boundaries of nautical design.
In this issue, we also take you on a journey to some of the world’s most captivating destinations. From Vienna’s thriving wine culture to the chic elegance of San Francisco’s finest stays and Napa Valley’s serene vineyards, our travel section is curated for the sophisticated globetrotter. We also transport you to the enchanting Cyclades in Greece and the remote majesty of Bhutan, often referred to as the last Shangri-La. Each destination promises to ignite your wanderlust and offer a new perspective on luxury travel.
Golf lovers will be thrilled to discover the groundbreaking courses Tiger Woods’ TGR Designs designed. And if your busy schedule doesn’t allow you to hit the greens, our spotlight on cutting-edge sports simulators offers an exhilarating alternative, bringing the thrill of golf, racing, and more into the comfort of your home.
For connoisseurs of fine jewelry and horology, this issue celebrates the legacy of Le Vian jewelers, a sneak peek at the 2024 COUTURE Show, and an exclusive interview with Guido Terreni, CEO of Parmigiani Fleurier, who shares how his Swiss watchmaking team continues to define the understated elegance of quiet luxury.
We’ve truly enjoyed curating this issue for you, and we hope it adds a touch of inspiration and sophistication to your year ahead.
With warm regards,
Darrin Austin CEO/Publisher, Jetset Magazine
CEO/PUBLISHER CFO
Creative Director Editor-in-Chief VP of Business Development VP of Operations VP of Advertising
Executive Assistant/Office Manager
Executive Administrator
Art & Design
DARRIN AUSTIN
PATRICIA JOHNSON
TOBY THOMPSON
TAMI AUSTIN
GREG FAHLMAN
TIANNA MARTIN
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THERESA JONES
CHRISTINA MORENO
ERIN SUWWAN
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LAURA MEITH JULIE OSTEN
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DR. JOHN DEMARTINI DAYMOND JOHN
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SI SI PENALOZA
KAREN BROST
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LESLIE K. HUGHES
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Lilium’s Electric Jet Promises Sustainable Alternative for Regional Flights.
BY JESSE WINTER
In the world of aviation, only military pilots flying jets like Lockheed’s F35 or its predecessor, British Aerospace’s Sea Harrier, typically experience vertical take-off and landing. The gravity-defying maneuver inspires a sense of wonder. Since vertical flight is usually the domain of helicopters, how can a fixed-wing jet go vertical? The answer is thrust vectoring, or the aircraft’s ability to control the thrust of its jet engines.
This is the technology underpinning the Lilium Jet, an electric jet prototype being built by the German aerospace company Lilium. By directing the thrust of its 30-battery electric motors, this zero-emission, electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft (eVTOL) can land on a helipad after soaring through the skies at 170 miles per hour. Lilium’s Head of Partnerships and Public Affairs, Matt Broffman, told Jetset that the Lilium Jet is for VIPs who want “to reduce their environmental impact” without sacrificing the experience of luxury private air travel. In other words, if you are working in Manhattan, New York and want to catch a concert in Philadelphia, a Lilium Jet will fly you and your party over New Jersey to a nearby vertiport in Philly, where it will tap into a liquid cooled charger.
Lilium is actively developing different versions of its Lilium Jet prototype, including a seven-seater air taxi variation and their Pioneer Edition aircraft: a five-seater version built for private ownership. The $10 million Pioneer Edition will have a range of around 90 miles and recharge in about 45 minutes, according to Broffman. The electric jet also has ducted engines that result in a quiet aircraft, making it ideal for navigating densely-populated urban spaces. According to Broffman, the Pioneer Edition is slated to hit the skies in 2026 as the company actively seeks certification with both the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the European Aviation Safety Administration (EASA).
Earlier this year, a full-scale mockup of the Pioneer Edition aircraft was unveiled at the European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (EBACE) in Geneva, Switzerland. Set inside a white fuselage, the Pioneer
Edition’s cabin’s interior is luminous with a minimalistic, sci-fi design. Separated by a door from the four-person configurable cabin, the cockpit resembles the flight simulators used to train military pilots. In total, the aircraft will be capable of transporting four passengers, one pilot and 200 lbs. worth of luggage, Broffman said. The mockup cabin will be “virtually identical” to those that will be included in the fifty Pioneer Edition jets set to be delivered to private owners upon the aircraft’s release. So far, the Lilium Jet prototype has successfully completed remote test flights and has its first piloted trial scheduled for the end of 2024.
In the meantime, Lilium is eyeing the Northeast, Southern California and Florida as its areas of operation in the United States. The company announced it will operate its network hub out of a vertiport attached to the Orlando International Airport in Central Florida, while also striking a deal with UrbanLink for twenty Lilium jets to operate out of South Florida. In Europe, Lilium will fly in both Britain and continental Europe—with the company building partnerships with charter companies
operating out of locations such as the greater London area and France. Lilium’s partnership with UrbanV will allow the German company to ferry travelers around the French Riviera from a vertiport network centered around the Nice Côte d’Azur airport in Nice, France.
The impending release of this electric jet positions Lilium’s eVTOL to compete with gas guzzling helicopter charters and luxury car services that have been the primary means of transporting VIPs between cities. Compared to other business aviation options like helicopter chartering, the Lilium’s 90-mile range upon release presents some challenges. Luxury helicopters running on aviation fuel, like the Airbus ACH130, cost a little more than three million dollars and have an operating range of around 400 miles. Lilium expects its batteries to become more powerful with each upgraded version.
Lilium is aiming for a yearly increase of 4.5 percent battery energy density, Broffman noted. That means the aircraft could potentially have an operating range of 170 miles in 2030 and 250 miles in 2035. He also confirmed to Jetset that owners will also be able to upgrade their lithium ion battery packs as new iterations are developed and manufactured. These new power plants will result in increasing the range and speed of the Lilium jet. Not only will passengers be able to travel farther on one charge, Broffman explained, but the speed of the jet will also receive a nice boost during its horizontal cruising flight.
The release of the mockup at EBACE 2024 represents a milestone for the company, Broffman told Jetset. It brings the Lilium Jet prototype closer to a realized aircraft, ready for its owners. This sentiment was echoed by Sebastien Borel, the company’s chief commercial officer, who was present as visitors and the media walked through the mockup of the Pioneer Edition model. In an interview with EBACE TV, Borel said targeting premium customers will get the Lilium Jet to the mass market. “We want to get sustainable aviation going,” Borel said. “People now believe we can actually replace a helicopter with our aircraft.”
The next generation of personal aviation is here.
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Aston Martin’s F1-Inspired SUV, the DBX707 AMR24, is Both Refined and Raucous.
BY MATT CHAPPELL
We are officially living through the era of the hyper SUV. And for those that have grown an impressive hatred for our larger four-wheeled friends, the time has come to start broadening some horizons. Indeed it’s true there are many SUVs rolling around cities on unnecessarily large tires and pointlessly pillowy air suspensions for their surroundings—but there are some that simply don’t need any excuses, wherever they are.
In what appears to be a monumental “can’t beat ‘em, so join ‘em” shift by the entire luxury sports automotive market, high-end manufacturers have been busy crafting their own “version” of an SUV. And it’s taken the SUV category to new heights. Well, speeds.
One such brand is British marque Aston Martin. In 2020, it lovingly created the Aston Martin DBX—its answer to the people’s rallying cries for more and more SUVs. Refined, luxurious, beautiful. Then came the DBX707 in 2022, at the time claiming to be the world’s most powerful SUV in existence. The clue is in the name: 707 metric horsepower, a monstrous, 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 and a whole lotta sex appeal. And remember, we’re talking about an SUV.
Now, along with a facelift for 2024 that grants the standard (and there is an irony to using this word here) DBX707 an even naughtier 0-60 mph of 3.1 seconds, comes the DBX707 AMR24 Edition. It’s an F1-inspired special edition released to celebrate the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One® Team.
The DBX707 AMR24 Edition has been given the same deliciously vivid racing identity as the brand’s F1 team and the Official Medical Car of Formula One. Pictured here in the rich and vibrant Podium Green, with AMR Lime brake calipers behind 23” Fortis wheels, it also comes in Onyx Black and Neutron White. The Lime Green continues along the lower trim, bringing the world of its Formula One team onto public roads with a striking presence none can ignore. Inside, two new colorways bring the team’s racing heritage into the cockpit with Lime Green contrast stitch and piping. And you can lace the cabin with carbon fiber, dark chrome jewelry and titanium mesh if you so want. You’ll find AMR24 etched door sills and the Aston Martin logo pressed in foil onto the dash, with a hand-stitched lime saddle strap on the wireless charging station, too. It is thoroughly Aston Martin, and thoroughly F1.
The DBX707 AMR24 is a 2.3-ton SUV that not only looks the part, but acts it, too. Air suspension, with damper valving and Electronic Active Roll Control, combined with an optimized chassis, keeps heave, pitch and body roll almost non-existent, and it feels as poised, planted and precise as any sports car. Mighty impressive. Utterly charming, leather-clad and ultra luxurious, the DBX707 would be remiss without a GT mode to refine things down to handle comfortable highway cruising in an instant. But don’t be fooled—this is still a thug when you want it to be. Raucous and throaty when you squeeze the fun pedal, it sounds and handles with the potency of a true Aston Martin.
And remember—this is an SUV we’re talking about.
Advances in Sports Simulators Bring the Thrills and Excitement to Your Place.
BY MATT CHAPPELL
Get ready to play, come rain, shine, snow or storm. Let’s look at how the best sports home simulators money can buy can transport you to other worlds at a moment’s notice, from midnight gaming sessions to the ultimate sports watch parties.
Athlete or not, sometimes you don’t want to (or can’t) leave the house. But that doesn’t mean you need to miss out on your sports fix. Perhaps you want to play nine on St. Andrews, or you want the cardio burn of an uphill bike climb in the Andes—maybe you even want to race the twisties of Maggots and Becketts in the British Grand Prix. Whatever it is, technology has more than caught up to deliver lifelike experiences like these from the indulgent comfort of your own home.
Most obviously, sim racing is a good place to start. A realistic home racing simulator may have you butt-clenching your way through SpaFrancorchamp’s Eau Rouge in Belgium from the luxury of your own living room—but they don’t often look pretty. These racing rigs have been built for realism, not refined beauty, from steel bars to F1 nose shells—until now.
Produced by the motorsport company behind Aston Martin Racing, the Prodrive Racing Simulator has been designed to sit in any luxury condo as a statement art piece, in collaboration with design and engineering house CALLUM. A sculpted carbon monocoque housing the cockpit floats underneath 16 layers of birch in a lacquered black finish. Cocooned inside, you’ll experience 49" of gloriously smooth graphics across a sweeping curved screen using a 12GB GeForce RTX graphics card. A precision SIM steering wheel couples with a Simucube steering motor so you can hit the apex to within the millimeter. Whether you’re an avid F1 sim racer or you prefer swapping asphalt for dirt track drifting, you’ll also be an art collector—driving in what must be the most beautiful race simulator in the world.
With that said, if you’re into Aston Martin, why not go directly to the source? The British marque’s new racing simulator, the AMR-C01, will set you back a cool $80,000 and offer the same gentlemanly, knowingly suave looks as the real thing would. With precise seating that replicates the sill and bucket seat of an Aston Martin Valkyrie and a single 49" curved display that wraps you inside the cockpit, it’s truer to life than most. There’s a kill switch with a red cover, a race-ready steering wheel and microsuede upholstery. It’ll run any Windows-based racing game you like, and has a wireless keyboard and trackpad tucked away in the chassis. It’s certainly not the most powerful sim out there, with its 2K screen, Intel i7 processor and Nvidia GeForce RTX 3070 graphics card, but then again— it’s an Aston Martin. It doesn’t need to be.
But racing isn’t for everyone. Sometimes something more sedate is in order. There’s nothing quite like a round of 18 on a Sunday morning, the sun beating down overhead, the sprinklers gently humming in the distance. Sure, you could fly to Augusta or Valderrama for a round any time, but what if you fancied playing nine on each? Or if it’s cold and wet? Sim tech has you covered. Again.
A Trackman 4 home set-up will take you to any of its 320 courses around the world in the comfort of your pajamas (if you wanted to). Combined with astroturf mats, a screen projector and protective enclosure, this simulator setup uses an engine called the Trackman 4, a launch monitor that uses optically-enhanced radar tracking to give you stinger-level accuracy on your shots. The software it uses is industry-leading and tourtrusted, coming with the Trackman Performance Studio for AI-powered shot analysis, putt performance, impact location and speed training. It is the ultimate caddy, coach, tour guide and driving range. Why deal with the hassle of fueling up the jet when you can play ultra-realistic golf at The Belfry at the drop of a golf cap?
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Speaking of flying, how about swapping the private jet for an adrenalinepacked fighter? Yes, you can fly one of these, too, from the comfort of your study—and we’re not talking about a joystick plopped onto your computer desk. With VIPER WING, you can bring in an entire F-18 rig into the house, with rotaries, switches, rudders and an aluminum, electricallyadjustable seat. And, of course, a joystick.
Paired with an optional, immersive curved screen, this flight sim experience brings you right into the cockpit onboard U.S. Navy aircraft carriers with functional tactical weapons, sensors, radar, nav systems, fuel and hydraulic simulations based on the U.S. Navy’s flight manuals for the F-18. You can quite literally jet off, anywhere.
Back at ground level, you could channel your inner Babe Ruth and practice your swing in a Batbox batting cage that uses virtual reality to slot you right into the baseball stadium. Using high-speed camera sensors and high-definition screen simulation, you’ll pitch and bat your way through home runs without so much as opening the front door.
A pitching machine with adjustable ball speed, height and direction according to the player keeps you dancing on your toes, while an automatic ball-collecting system means you can keep your feet rooted to the base. Invite your pals over for the ultimate watch party, going head-tohead in the batting cage before watching the game IRL. You’ll be the most popular neighbor in town.
Whatever your sport, hobby or fantasy, sports and gaming sims can take you there. All you have to do is decide which one you fancy turning pro at.
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BY KATY SPRATTE JOYCE
The City of Music, the City of Dreams, the City of. . .Wine (or wein as it is called in Austria)? Vienna is a celebrated capital of culture, but its quietly flourishing wine scene feels like a fresh new facet to love. “We are living in a metropolis with urban wine growing within the city limits. That’s unique and there is no other city in the world with this size of serious winemaking in the city,” Caroline Derler, a local wine specialist and custom wine tour operator in Vienna, explains.
Comparable to the world’s other great wine regions, Vienna boasts a small but growing footprint, similar in size to the Italian Barbaresco wine region in Piedmont. “Around 170 wineries are making wine in Vienna,” notes Derler. This dynamic wine scene features mostly small, family-owned wineries, plus a group of five bigger wineries called WienWein. “There is a generational change going on, and a lot of daughters and sons are taking over their family wineries and are heading into a bright future of winemaking in the city,” she adds. Roughly half of Vienna’s 700 hectares (1,680 acres) of vineyards are already certified organic, too. Wine pro Derler elaborates, “A few wineries are also working along biodynamic principles and are heading towards being regenerative organic certified.”
More than 80 percent of the grape varieties in Vienna’s vineyards are white. The top variety is the traditional Wiener (Viennese) Gemischter Satz DAC, a field blend that translates to “Viennese mixed planting.” “More than half of the vineyards are planted with Gemischter Satz,” Caroline Derler says. “Most people have never heard of the term field blend, [as] it’s rarely written on the wine labels, but around 100 years ago, it was the main way wines were planted in the vineyards.” The diversity of the grapes used helps protect quality and guard against a poor harvest; wine has been crafted for centuries using this method in Vienna, and it’s resurgent now. Essentially, it can come from up to 20 different varieties. Some of the most planted varieties in the Gemischter Satz vineyards are Grüner Veltliner, Riesling, Traminer, Neuburger, Pinot Gris and Pinot Blanc. “The grapes must come from a vineyard in Vienna interplanted with at least three white quality varieties that are then harvested and vinified [pressed] together,” she explains. “The greatest proportion of any one grape must not be higher than 50 percent, and the third largest proportion must be at least 10 percent,” the wine expert adds.
Without a doubt, Wiener Gemischter Satz is the most planted, iconic wine in Vienna,
With a prime location in Central Europe, it’s easy to get to Vienna. From the United States, there are nonstop commercial flights to Vienna International Airport (VIE) available on United Airlines or Austrian Airlines. If you’re adding an Austrian city break to a longer Euro trip, consider taking a scenic train ride from hubs like Prague, Milan, Hamburg and many more.
Anytime during the harvest season (September-October), though Wine Hiking Day weekend is the most fun (9/28-9/29/24).
There’s no shortage of posh hotels in Vienna. We love the Hotel Imperial, Palais Coburg and the Ritz-Carlton Vienna.
The city has a massive public transportation system that’s extremely safe and easy to navigate. Visitors can even take the tram to the vineyards.
Be on the lookout for sturm, a hazy, fermented grape juice drink produced only during harvest. Derler suggests pairing it with roasted chestnuts, a popular combination you can find all around the city.
and it’s also becoming known internationally.
“After Gemischter Satz, there is, of course, the Austrian main variety Grüner Veltliner and Riesling and also Weißburgunder and a bit of Chardonnay [is] popular,” Derler says. “The number one in reds is Zweigelt, followed by Pinot Noir and some Merlot, but the amount of red wine is very small. We’re definitely a white wine city,” she notes.
Now that we know the basics of Viennese wine, it’s time to plan a visit. Though Austria’s illustrious capital city makes for an enchanting getaway any time of year, an autumnal trip to coincide with harvest (September/October timeframe) offers an incredible opportunity to enjoy special events and the energy of crush. Derler shares that the city comes alive with “the colors of the vines and seeing the grapes
hanging on the vines with busy tractors in the vineyards harvesting . . . you [can] feel and experience wine agriculture in the city.” Enjoy a perfect three days with the ultimate luxury wine itinerary for Vienna, Austria.
Start with a tour of the fanciest cellar in Vienna in the 16th-century digs of the Palais Coburg The Wine Archive and cellar are broken into six distinct rooms and feature 60,000 bottles. Primarily known for its collection of rare and precious wines, this is one of the best stocked cellars on the planet. Custom tours and tastings are available. Visitors can also experience a 90-minute fixed guided tour, including a tasting of five wines, on the second Thursday of each month. More into sparkling wines? Four
tour options are available at Schlumberger Sparkling Wine Cellar, including a rosé tour. If you’d like to see inside private cellars, consider the two-hour “Hidden Cellars” tour from Wien Malanders. Enjoy three Viennese wines in three distinct cellars over this two-hour exploration of the city’s wine history. Tours are generally available on Fridays and Saturdays at 3:00 pm.
For your first dinner in Vienna, consider a few options from the Michelin Guide, the ultimate international restaurant A-list. Enjoy a casual, creative atmosphere at one star Pramerl & the Wolf, a former pub turned eatery in the 9th district. Steirereck, a two-star spot, features contemporary takes on classic Austrian cuisine and boasts a famous bread and cheese cart. Or, stay close to the cellar at Palais Coburg to indulge in a meal at two-star Silvio Nickol, which has an extensive wine list and gorgeous interior.
For a deeper dive into Viennese wines on your second day, plan to spend a half day with local expert Caroline Derler (Carolinederler.com). Her most popular offering is a wine tour with some time to walk among the vines and enter the vineyards. “A lot of wine lovers want to have an active part in the tour and want to see where the wine is grown,“ she says. “The Viennese vineyards are within the city limits and therefore very easy to reach. By taxi or even with public transport, they’re very accessible.” The wine-growing areas are super picturesque and showcase the best views in the city. “I think every visitor should see the city with the perspective from the vineyards, looking over the Nussberg, Kahlenberg or Cobenzl [areas]. It totally changes your image of Vienna,” Derler declares. Custom tours are also available, which can be
perfectly tailored to the guests’ interests. Pro tip: Remember that vineyards are generally closed on Sundays since they remain mostly familyowned. “So I suggest planning to visit a winery during the week until Saturday,” she adds.
After a day in the hilly Viennese wine regions, a more low-key dinner is just the ticket. “If you would like it more casual, I suggest dinner at Resniček, a wonderful Viennese Wirtshaus with a stunning wine list,” Derler says. For another Michelin moment, Weibel’s Wirtshaus is an excellent option for this type of rustic, approachable cuisine.
Another ideal way to experience Vienna’s wine scene is by visiting wine bars and wine shops. Derler shares her lists for the best spots. For wine bars with natural wine focus, try Vinifero, Cafe Kandl, R&BAR and O Boufes. For bars with more than natural wines, consider Champagne Characters, MAST Weinbistro and Heunisch & Erben. To stock up on your favorites, check out Vinodea, a wine shop featuring female makers only. Wein & Co, a wine bar and shop all in one, are spread around the city, too, with multiple locations. Pub Klemo is another good shop pick.
A key reason to plan a harvest time visit is to enjoy Wine Hiking Day, a once-a-year treat that coincides with the season. It’s exactly what it sounds like—a special day where the vineyards are open, and there are four planned hiking routes through the wine areas. Derler expands, “The wine hiking day is spectacular. Everybody is in a good mood, hiking in the vineyards.” As a local she tends to avoid the busiest spots. “I love
to hike around the Bisamberg and the beautiful cellar street of Stammersdorf,” she adds. Wine Hiking Day is actually a weekend, set for September 28th and 29th of 2024, from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.
For a memorable final dinner, there’s no better spot than Juan Amador, Vienna’s first three-starred Michelin spot. “I would suggest having dinner at Michelin-starred restaurant Juan Amador, because it’s in a wine cellar and while having dinner you have a great view of the barrels,” Derler says. The wine list includes a great variety of Viennese wines, including older vintages. A divine meal at Amador is the perfect cherry on top of a Vienna wine weekend.
Le Vian Continues Its Centuries-Old Heritage of Creating Timeless Jewelry.
BY ANNIE STOPAK
With one brief look at the Le Vian website, the intention of the brand unfolds. At first glance, the fine jewelry purveyor cultivates a stark and powerful narrative, deeply entwining the whimsical nature of exquisite gems with the profound impact of how they came to be. The allure of decadent collections and a refreshingly idealistic approach take the brand’s heavenly motto to a utopian realm. The sense of longing and desire are evident in the tagline—A jewelry lover’s dream come true.
But more than just the expression of love is the longevity that the brand boasts. Le Vian’s heritage reaches back to the 1400s with a business that has been in operation since 1746, suggesting rich historical nuances have shaped the label for the last 300 years and obstacles have been overcome to get there.
The label is credited for guarding the Persian royal jewels, as well as the Koh-i-Noor diamond (one of the world’s largest cut diamonds and part of Queen Elizabeth’s British crown jewels), acquiring a sum of rare tanzanite, and later, gathering prestigious sapphires from Madagascar. But the real story is centered around the exposé of one such tantalizing accoutrement, chocolate diamonds, and how its existence and accessibility formed undeniable intrigue in the fine jewelry world.
Gaining popularity in the early 1950s, diamonds were catching attention for their vast intricacies. It wasn’t until an observant jeweler rebranded the generic term “diamond” to differentiate subtle variations in each color, calling out hues like champagne, cognac or amber. This encouraged a deeper investigation into all diamonds, and by 1996, brown diamonds, or chocolate diamonds, were officially introduced into the market. The grading system wasn’t fully formed at this point, so a new system was tested for the decadent brown hue, which included C1 (lightest) to C7 (darkest).
In 2000, Le Vian partnered with Rio Tinto and Signet Jewelers to obtain a patent for the chocolate diamond. This sparked a surge of interest and heavy demand, as Le Vian was the first in its class to bring such beauty to the market. By 2007, nearly 400,000 requests were pouring in for this particular style. Naturally, the brand continued to source the jewels from the most fruitful diamond-producing location, Australia’s Argyle mine. This went on for nearly 20 years, until economic and environmental pressures led to the mine’s closure in 2020.
The end of the mine led to greater demand for chocolate diamonds in the last four years, so Le Vian launched a collaboration with Godiva Chocolates in 2022 to monetize this venture. In the wake of the collaboration’s success, these rich gems drew in a fan base of over five million collectors worldwide. Le Vian has continued to make it their mission to bring chocolate diamonds to their stores, satisfying their customers with consistency, quality and trust.
“At Le Vian we are determined to stay at the forefront of creating the most exquisite natural fancy color diamond and gemstone jewelry,” said Eddie LeVian, chief executive officer and founder at Le Vian.
Eddie LeVian has an esteemed reputation, utilizing his talents in both leadership and industry knowledge. He has experience in the field working as a gem cutter, jewelry maker, salesperson, show person, jewelry designer, director and now as CEO. This has positioned the brand for success, and he continues to propel it forward by anticipating trends in the marketplace.
The reputable CEO foresees gold as the next jewelry trend, suspecting its delightful sheen
to overtake the runway by 2025. Eddie LeVian acknowledges gold as a classic and effortless base metal, and the brand already produces collections that complement this rich hue with stark contrast to calmer tones like lavender, powder blue or rose pink. According to insider information from the team, new collections are on the horizon with this rich shimmery hue in surprisingly different ways, but consumers will have to wait and see how the trend takes shape.
surface trends. Many attentive jewelers see what makes the industry similar yet different from years past. “As we gaze into the crystal ball of 2024, we foresee echoes of 2023’s resounding success,” said Eddie LeVian. “The landscape is dynamic, with certain categories ascending to new heights as others maintain a gentle repose.”
“I love the gold trend,” said Eddie LeVian. “It modernizes the Le Vian look and gives us a new way to show our strength.”
Perhaps a glimpse into future golden collections is seen through the brand’s exclusive collaboration with Jared. Meaning “golden sunset” in Italian, Le Vian’s Tramonto D’Oro is inspired by the Neapolitan Riviera and alludes to the jewelry’s dreamy iridescence, like stars emerging from the setting sun. It includes 14 karat gold adorned with dainty diamonds and gemstones that seek to entice instead of overwhelm. In this collection, the beauty is evident in the subtleties.
But on a more profound level, jewelry experts examine the future of fine jewelry apart from
The challenges of the last few years have revealed a cultural experience wrapped in hardship that has shaped the way shoppers view fashion and accessories. These uneasy sentiments have caused consumers to identify with their jewelry differently, so it requires the brand to create pieces that support this emotional shift. Perhaps this could mean a departure from the enthusiasm and prominence of statement pieces, and a return back to the familiar: timeless elegance in the form of simplistic staples.
Similar to the richness of the gold trend, timeless pieces are treasures that live on forever and are passed down for generations. They are reliable and predictable. In a time of targeted marketing, overconsumption and an uncertain economic landscape, the security of quality jewels that hold meaning, value and heritage far outway the short-lived satisfaction of fleeting
trends. This outlook of resilience grounds consumers and gives them a deeper sense of purpose in their style journey, lending a more powerful connection to self expression and a pathway to healing.
In light of this, Le Vian presented a trend forecast this summer that embodies the honest wants and needs of the customer. The jewelry industry’s leading international trade event, the JCK show, recently took place in Las Vegas on June 2 of this year. In addition to new collections, the team expanded their offering at the show. Le Vian held more space for appointment-only consultations at the event and revealed the much-anticipated trends to showcase the future of the brand’s assortment.
Drawing inspiration from society and trends, Le Vian has created a space where customers feel a sense of peace and satisfaction with what they wear. The brand has conducted research to make products that resonate with shoppers and leave a lasting impression.
At the root of Le Vian’s brand is a pure sentiment, and it’s the reason customers buy fine jewelry. It begins with the innate attraction to love . . . what is time on Earth without it?
BY ANNIE STOPAK
It’s awe-inspiring to stand in the presence of creatives who share interests. With the art of fine jewelry, it’s most fascinating when skill sets and perspectives form interpretations that are unique in their own right. It’s in the mystery of these interpretations that the sheer magnitude of jewelry’s significance comes to light.
The 2024 COUTURE Show, a world-renowned trade show introducing the best in fine jewelry and timepieces, was an event where designers shared this intriguing concept. Making their debut at the Wynn Las Vegas, curators opened the doors and left attendees eager for more. After the event came to a close, there were plenty of nuances to continue dreaming about —not only the beautiful craftsmanship or the aesthetically pleasing display, but the shades of meaning around the future of our jewelry world. Most importantly, what trends are capturing our hearts?
Whether it was swooning over the design atelier, making meaningful conversation with creators, or sharing anecdotes, it all contributed to the grandeur of the experience. Attendees remarked that there was something cathartic about Cafe Noir, a modern botanical pop-up lounge in the center of the show where they’d savor a refreshment and relish in the moment. To wrap up the event, the red carpet-inspired awards ceremony twinkled with a similar luster as the Golden Globes, bringing together only the most notable names in the industry while embracing a creative’s shared love for exceptional design.
Perhaps the biggest takeaway from the show was this: What do the stars have in store? An arbitrary concept to some, the allure of astronomy, astrology, and the zodiac is greater than we often give it credit for. The celestial spirit sends
a glimmer of hope to idealistic personalities who are seeking something beyond themselves. Experts say, the act of wearing a trinket as a symbol of our universe can have a profound impact on one’s life, even if it just serves as a gentle reminder that there’s a great deal more out there than our mind can comprehend.
“Astronomy is one of the most enduring jewelry trends. Humans have always been entranced by the heavens above, and diamonds are a perfect métier for rendering the beauty of the stars and planets,” said attendee Kristen Shirley, luxury goods expert and founder of La Patiala, a digital destination that covers all things high-end.
Absorbed in the trade show space for nearly a decade, Shirley has attended more than 20 fine jewelry shows globally. It comes as no surprise then that she has various informed remarks about the show’s key themes and trends, so we picked her brain on what intrigued her most.
Her favorite trend on the horizon may come as a bit of a surprise, acting as a stark contrast to previous highlights of dainty chains and micro mini hoops. Colossal jewelry has been gaining momentum in recent months, including tantalizing collars and torque necklaces. “This trend started a couple of years ago but is getting bigger (literally) every year,” Shirley said. Experts surmise understated fashion will complement the chunky jewels best, which begs the question, is oversized here to stay?
The second stand-out trend had less to do with taking up space and more to do with striking hues. “Color is everywhere,” Shirley said. She remarked that these kinds of colors can’t be ignored, especially when paired with massive proportions. Designers are taking a similarly bold approach but with vibrantly-toned enamel, or hard stones like lapis, turquoise, malachite, and brightly hued gemstones like rubies, emeralds, and opals.
As far as new brands to keep an eye out for, Shirley noted State Property and Marie Lichtenberg are gaining notoriety, and for good reason. In its usual art deco motif, State Property’s “Garden” collection celebrates the intricacies of Spanish architecture while Marie Lichtenberg combines spiritual heritage with unending adoration, evident in her tiered chains spelling out the familiar phrase: All you need is love
In addition, Shirley confirmed the appeal of astrology at this year’s show, and how it’s taking shape in starry pendants, planets, and other subtle celestial ways. Namely, the zodiac signs and birthstones. Harwell Godfrey, Temple St. Clair, and Sorellina are some of her personal favorite brands in the astrology space right now, acknowledging their universal themes are less obvious, but still increasingly captivating. Take Godfrey’s bejeweled watch for instance – it’s everything but a traditional timepiece, sprinkled
with diamonds that give a nod to numerology and the angels.
Jewelry designers have crafted custom astrology pieces in other unique ways, mimicking constellations or geographic coordinates and recreating the sky above at a special moment. “Shoppers are more inclined to keep pieces with personal significance, not just if a gemstone signifies something generic like clarity or strength,” Shirley said.
According to astrologists, each zodiac sign is ruled by planets which impact a person’s astrology chart. Based on birth date and time, astrologers can draw conclusions about personality and foretell life events. Birthstones, in contrast, are simply colorful gemstones that correlate with one’s birth month. For example, the birthstone for January is garnet which represents love, friendship, protection, and vitality.
Last year, experts made predictions for 2024, stating a perceived influx of creativity and self-expression through the use of zodiac and birthstone jewelry. Now we can say, they were right. And this doesn’t mean that to wear them you have to be well-versed in astrological terminology either. The sheer appreciation of its beauty and the desire to hold
a deeper meaning with your jewelry through personalization are reason enough for anyone to hold this trend close.
Emily Villavaso, Scottsdale yoga instructor and astrology researcher, shared her informed opinion on why we may be seeing an increase in astrological trends. “I think people’s minds are opening to the spiritual side in all of us; it’s a rise in consciousness. People who were once completely shut off from it feel safer to explore.”
She continued, wearing jewelry that represents astrology helps us feel more in tune to ourselves and those around us, acting as a symbol of our passions and interests. “It’s the same with religion or community—we want to feel connected, and showing what we believe in calls the energies towards us that we desire,” Villavaso said.
Jewelry shoppers, like astrologists, are lured by the excitement of the unknown. The uncharted territory of our universe can be perceived as a guide to some or a compelling mystery to others; but either way, there’s a tangible quality centered in the stars. And whether it’s glistening diamonds that mimic a starry night sky or a personalized birthstone on a cable chain, jewelry shows us that we are continually evolving and wanting more than ever before.
BY KAREN BROST
Think of San Francisco and some very iconic images come to mind – the Golden Gate Bridge, cable cars, Fisherman’s Wharf, the twists and turns of Lombard Street and the colorful Painted Ladies, that historic and much photographed row of Victorian homes. But there’s so much more to enjoy and explore in this fascinating and diverse city. But first, you’ll need to find some great places to stay and dine. Here are our top picks:
A prime location is one of the star attractions of this elegant urban oasis on Market Street. The hotel offers easy access to Union Square and the Financial District as well as to the cultural attractions and restaurants of the vibrant SoMa (South of Market) neighborhood. The newly renovated guest rooms beckon travelers with a soothing color palette inspired by the beauty of San Francisco’s fog, redwood trees and ocean.
For dining, there’s MKT Restaurant that serves up a California-centric menu of sustainable seafood, local meats, seasonal produce and handcrafted cocktails along with 180-degree views of the city’s downtown. Or, if you prefer not to leave your relaxing accommodations, the hotel’s farm-to-room selections are available for in-room dining 24 hours a day.
Exercise enthusiasts staying at the hotel receive unlimited, direct private access to the Equinox Sports Centre, a 127,000 square-foot facility that spans three floors. It includes a junior Olympic lap pool, basketball court, and more than 110 fitness classes weekly along with mind-body studios for yoga, Pilates and Gyrotonic training.
A dedicated boxing studio is also available along with nutritional counseling and life coaching.
The Spa at Equinox is conveniently located at the Equinox Sports Center. When you arrive at the spa, you’ll be guided to your treatment room through a relaxing, candlelit hallway accented with Buddhist-inspired décor. One of the top treatments is the Bodywork Massage by Equinox, a favorite of athletes and personal trainers. The soothing and refreshing Hydrafacial is another popular choice. The spa
also offers additional signature treatments and a variety of spa packages to choose from, as well as eucalyptus steam rooms and dry saunas.
If you’re traveling with your family, your kids are in for a treat, as well. The special Kids Concierge can recommend age-specific itineraries for kids of all ages, from toddlers to teens. The little ones receive children’s bath amenities, kid-sized robes and slippers and complimentary milk and cookies to welcome them.
With its excellent location, luxurious accommodations, California-inspired cuisine and outstanding spa and fitness facilities, the Four Seasons San Francisco can provide the ideal home base for making the most of this extraordinary city, whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure. When you arrive, you just may want to drop into the MKT Restaurant & Bar for a celebratory handcrafted cocktail like a Nitro Espressotini, a SoMa Side or a Spanish Bay Negroni.
Helmed by Executive Chef Harrison Cheney, a London native, Michelin-starred Sons & Daughters offers a tasting menu inspired by the spirit of new Nordic cuisine, rooted in classical cooking techniques. The restaurant focuses on sustainability and seasonality while celebrating the abundance of produce that Northern California has to offer. Sommelier David Kolvek has selected an extensive variety of both classic and New World wines to enhance the tasting menu. Guests have the option to choose a wine pairing or to enjoy the wines by the bottle or by the glass. The dining room wraps around a open kitchen, which adds to the immersive dining experience. 708 Bush Street
Modern in both interior design and interpretation, Mourad pays tribute to the rich, vibrant flavors of Morocco by blending them with fresh, local artisanal ingredients. Executive Chef and Owner Mourad Lahlou is a native of Marrakesh and is now considered by many to be the pioneer of modern Moroccan cuisine. Missing his country’s cuisine, he taught himself to recreate his favorites using local ingredients. Consider La’acha, Moroccan family-style dining, that includes choices such as salmon, chicken or short ribs served with sides. Accompany your choice with a selection of wines by the glass or choose from the menu of creative seasonal cocktails. 140 New Montgomery Street
According to Chef Gary Danko, “You don’t just open a great restaurant. It’s a constant work in progress.” Twenty-four years later, his Michelinstarred restaurant, located in San Francisco’s iconic Fisherman’s Wharf neighborhood, continues to refine its award-winning combination of classic French cooking and inventive use of local ingredients. Guests can choose a three-, four- or five-course tasting menu with optional wine pairings. An extensive list of wines and champagne is also offered. The restaurant’s cheese cart features fifteen to twenty cheeses nightly selected from many corners of the world. Whatever diners choose, they can be assured of receiving Gary Danko’s personable and impeccable service. 800 North Point Street
This luxurious five-star hotel, conveniently located in San Francisco’s Financial District, has truly elevated hospitality to a fine art. In fact, art is one of the themes you’ll experience when you view the carefully curated works by local artists throughout. There’s plenty more for art afficionados to enjoy, since this elegant hotel is located in the historic Williams Building, which is also home to the Museum of the African Diaspora (MoAd) and adjacent to the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA).
The St. Regis brand is legendary for its extraordinary service. If you choose to reserve one of the hotel’s luxurious suites for your stay, you’ll experience St. Regis Butler Service, a mainstay of the brand for over one hundred years. At your request, your butler will unpack and pack your luggage, provide morning coffee or tea service or arrange to have a garment pressed in time for a meeting or a night out. They’ll even pick up a thoughtful gift for a loved one. For guests’ convenience, requests for assistance may be submitted to the St. Regis Butler Service Desk via text or email any time of the day or night.
For dining and beverage options, a great place to start is the hotel’s signature fine dining restaurant, Astra, and the St. Regis Bar. Here, you’ll experience a level of impeccable service that was established by the legendary House of Astor more than a century ago. Saturday and Sunday brunch is a popular choice, and the St. Regis also offers the timeless tradition of serving afternoon tea along with delicacies created by the hotel’s pastry chef. And if you love champagne, be sure to head for the Champagne Cart in the St. Regis Bar that serves up bubbly paired with caviar, oysters and sweet treats. You also won’t want to miss the Sabrage Ceremony, an evening St. Regis ritual where a bottle of champagne is opened using an elegant saber.
The hotel’s newly redesigned rooms and suites will make an ideal home base from which to explore all that this vibrant city has to offer. Michelin-starred dining, cultural venues and performances and sporting events are just a few of the experiences that await you. Then begin or end your day with the hotel’s signature drink, the Golden Gate Mary, inspired by the glowing sunset over the Pacific Ocean.
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When you’re planning a trip to California’s Napa Valley, there are several challenging (albeit fun) decisions to be made. Which of the area’s hundreds of wineries do you want to visit? And once you’ve narrowed down your choices, which vintages do you want to sample? But there’s one decision that will be easy to make—where to stay. The Meritage Resort and Spa, located in the heart of Napa, offers everything you could possibly need to make the most of your stay in this legendary wine country destination.
This spacious resort is set on over 36 acres of rolling hills, including a private, nine-acre vineyard with walking trails to stroll. All of the guest rooms and suites have been recently redesigned to reflect a warm, Tuscanstyle ambiance. And since this is wine country, you’ll be welcomed with a bottle of wine from Napa’s own Trintas Cellars.
One of the resort’s most innovative amenities is called The Village. It’s a lush lawn surrounded by tasting rooms operated by some of Napa Valley’s top boutique wineries. Here, without ever having to leave the resort, guests can sample sparkling wines and champagne at Sora Napa, sip Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon at Trintas Cellars, explore the offerings of the family-owned GEN 7 Wines or savor the varietals of the Anarchist Wine Co. And for those in need of a little extra sustenance as they sample their way through The Village, there’s a gourmet grocery store and food truck nearby.
For dining, there are a number of excellent options. Olive + Hay specializes in Italian-inspired farm-to-table cuisine and Crush Lounge is a chic bowling venue that serves up craft cocktails and elevated bar food. And for a truly special dining experience, there’s the newly-opened Ember Steak which, under the expert direction of Chef Cary Roy, offers a carefully-curated menu that includes savory cuts such as Double R-Ranch Ribeye, Tomahawk, New York Strip and Kurobuta Iberico Pork Chops. Rounding out the menu are delectable seafood and sushi selections.
No visit to The Meritage would be complete without a visit to Spa Terra. After all, how often do you get to indulge in a luxurious spa treatment while relaxing in an underground Estate Cave? The treatments are as unique as the setting, thanks to the spa’s special seasonal offerings. During the summer they included such delicious-sounding treatments as the Lemon Velveteen Whipped Mousse Massage and the Watermelon Vodkatini Body Treatment. The spa also offers monthly wellness events and weekly classes that include aqua aerobics, barre classes and a vineyard yoga hike.
For further relaxation, there’s a family pool as well as a separate adult pool. And should you be fortunate enough to stay at The Meritage in the summer, you can attend the Blue Note Napa Concert Series featuring a diverse lineup of world-class artists. You can even choose accommodations that offer a great view of the stage, right from your balcony. And when you’re ready to explore the local area (if you can tear yourself away from the resort), you’ll have easy access to Napa’s acclaimed wineries, or you can take the resort’s shuttle to Downtown Napa.
With its thoughtfully planned redesign, The Meritage Resort and Spa has truly been reimagined. Now, all you have to do is imagine yourself arriving for a thoroughly enjoyable stay.
Experience Ancient Culture, Luxury and Serenity at this Himalayan Haven.
BY ALEXANDRA OWENS
As I stroll across the courtyard of Cheri Monastery, a Buddhist sanctuary perched on the outskirts of Bhutan’s Thimphu Valley, I inhale freshly lit incense and stop to admire handpainted murals—a riot of color, symbolism and spiritual storytelling. My guide, Namgay Tshering of Himalayan Foothills Travel, leads me up a wooden ladder into the inner temple, where a smiling, robed monk pours blessed water or trüchu, bright yellow from saffron, into my expectant hands. Cupping my palms to my mouth, I take a sip to cleanse myself of all negative thoughts, emotions and actions.
Then it hits me: Silence. We have this ancient place, the first monastery founded by Ngawang Namgyal, known as The Bearded Lama and the unifier of Bhutan as a nation-state, all to ourselves.
In an increasingly globalized world where many destinations struggle to combat growing crowds—UNESCO recently recommended that Venice’s world heritage site status be listed as “in danger” due to mass tourism— the Land of the Thunder Dragon maintains an authenticity and blissful remoteness that’s all too rare. Sometimes called the last Shangri-La because of its unspoiled natural beauty and unique culture, Bhutan belongs to an exclusive club of carbon negative countries and stands alone as the last remaining Vajrayana (Tantric) Buddhist kingdom, a school closely related to Tibetan Buddhism.
For many years, going to Bhutan proved as challenging as slipping onto the Paro Airport runway, sandwiched in a narrow valley between 16,000 foot mountains. The 45-degree landing may still be tough, but luckily
for intrepid travelers, the immigration process has become considerably easier. While international tourists are required to pay a mandatory levy, the fee, which offsets visitors’ carbon footprint and contributes to Bhutan’s Sustainable Development Fund, was slashed by fifty percent to $100 per person per night until 2027. Travelers also no longer have to prebook entire itineraries with a minimum daily spend in order to get a visa, although hiring a guide is highly recommended.
These rules aren’t about keeping tourists out. Bhutan—known for its philosophy of Gross National Happiness—warmly welcomes responsible guests who invest time, thought, and yes, money, into their trips. Guided by a “high value, low volume,” policy, Bhutan carefully protects its culture, infrastructure and pristine natural resources, while ensuring that travelers enjoy an exceptional—and authentic—experience. Because of this, Bhutan has emerged as a luxe hotspot full of ancient, meditative temples, rich arts and crafts, some of the world’s best hiking, diverse wildlife and once-ina-lifetime opportunities to receive blessings from lamas and monks. And then there are the hotels.
In the Land of the Thunder Dragon, luxury standards are set as high as the Himalayas themselves. One of the few international brands allowed inside the country’s tight borders: Aman Resorts. Aman’s founder, Adrian Zecha, has been visiting Bhutan since it first allowed tourists in the 1970s. When Amankora Paro opened in 2004, it became the country’s only international hotel, followed by Como and Six Senses a few years later. Today, the tiny kingdom—which is slightly smaller than Switzerland and has an estimated population of less than 800,000 people—offers a robust choice of more than 20 top properties, including five Aman lodges along Bhutan’s tourism circuit of lush valleys, known as the kora, the Dzongkha word for pilgrimage.
I begin my own journey at Amankora Thimphu, a 16-suite lodge designed by the renowned architect Kerry Hill in the style of a dzong fortress. Located within easy reach of the bustling capital’s shops and sights, I spend my days exploring Thimphu and its surrounds, watching a spirited archery
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competition at Changlimithang Stadium and dining on brutally spicy ema datshi (chili peppers and cheese) and momos (filled dumplings) at Phangu, a stylish restaurant owned by Bleu Dorji, a chef of noble ancestry. Each evening, Amankora Thimphu brings Bhutan’s culture right to my doorstep, surprising me with a private lecture with a Buddhist monk and a performance of the country’s joyful traditional dances—typically only seen at Bhutan’s famous festivals—by the spectacular Gaki Luyang ensemble.
In this way, Bhutan’s luxury properties are similar to the lodges and camps you find across Africa. Far more than a place to lay your head at night, they become the de facto curators of your trip, feeding you (many bookings are all-inclusive), sending you off to the spa post-hike, and immersing you in the country’s heritage 24/7.
After a couple days in Thimphu, Namgay and I head on to Gangtey Valley, an area best known for the black-necked cranes that fly there from the Tibetan Plateau every fall. An important part of Bhutanese folklore, these graceful, rare birds—which some believe are the reincarnated souls of deceased lamas—purportedly bring a successful harvest to the region’s farmers.
My hotel, Gangtey Lodge, overlooks the valley the cranes have just left for their return migration; I’m not too disappointed, as you’d be hard-pressed to imagine a more beautiful spot to do absolutely nothing. I cozy up by the stone fireplace with a mug of butter tea, a local specialty, and gaze out at the mountains covered in a sea of scarlet rhododendrons. It’s time for the most grueling part of my day: a Bhutanese hot stone bath. Using medicinal herbs and river stones that have been roasted over a fire until they are bright red, this therapeutic treatment relieves deep aches and pains. Fortunately, Gangtey Lodge thoughtfully provides guests with everything you might need during a steamy soak, including iced tea, cookies, a cold compress and a post-bath massage just to make absolutely sure you’re extra relaxed.
The next morning, we drive back toward Paro, stopping along the way to search for some of Bhutan’s prolific birdlife—including the kaleidoscopic Himalayan monal and yellow-rumped honeyguide. Isolated and densely forested, Bhutan is quickly becoming one of the world’s top birding destinations thanks to its incredible biodiversity. The mountains are also
home to enigmatic species like snow leopards, red pandas and Indian rhinos, but those typically prove much more challenging to locate. Rumor has it more robust safari offerings are on the way.
When we reach my final lodge, COMO Uma Paro, I’m famished and ready for a hearty meal at the hotel’s award-winning restaurant, Bukhari, a favorite of the Bhutanese Royal Family. While the property’s main building was, appropriately enough, once the home of a nobleman, I’m staying in one of the newer free-standing villas, which come with butler service and a panoramic view of Paro. The resort’s chic bar, decked out in red leather, is the perfect spot for a night cap of K5 Himalayan Whisky, the first whisky blended and bottled in Bhutan.
As my trip winds down, it’s time to check off my last bucket list items: Visit the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery teetering on the edge of a cliff in Paro Valley. Shop for precious dzi beads and antique wooden ceremonial masks in town. Stop by Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the most sacred and oldest Buddhist temples in the Himalayas, with roots dating back to the 7th century. It’s there, shaded by a fragrant orange tree, that I’m once again alone, unbothered by crowds. This time it is not silent; I can hear monks chanting, in a soft monotone, from the inside. Travel has never felt like more of a gift.
These Sun Splashed Greek Islands Mesmerize Visitors on Land and at Sea.
BY JILLIAN DARA
Basking under the Mediterranean sun on ruby- or white-sand beaches, Greece’s Cycladic Islands possess the power to transport travelers’ minds a world away. Yet, its most popular archipelagos of Santorini and Mykonos are no more than a 40-minute flight from the mainland. It’s this simultaneous exclusivity and accessibility that has long resulted in both islands becoming popular destinations for celebrities and savvy socialites.
The allure dates back to the late 1960s when luxury hotels began popping up on Mykonos. This was enough to attract the elite of Hollywood glamor, including Sophia Loren and Grace Kelly, which solidified the Cyclades as the new hotspot of the Mediterranean. Though tourism certainly proliferated throughout the islands over the past 50 years, there’s a reason why both Santorini and Mykonos, despite measures to try and persuade travelers to experience less-visited islands, continue to welcome swells of travelers and new hotel brands, alike. As resort towns in their truest form, meaning that the hotels, restaurants and key businesses are only open for the busy summer season, the Greek Islands promise a sense of singularity in time and place, which is appealing for the traveler ever-chasing one-ofa-kind experiences.
A trip to Santorini would be incomplete without a day excursion to admire the island from the water. Inky blue waves lap at the unearthly volcanic cliff face jutting out from the depths of Santorini’s caldera. Red and black beaches line secluded inlets, sulfurous waters are warmed by the nearby active volcano, and the zig-zagging switchbacks of the isolated island of Thirasia—where the average lifespan of its 200 inhabitants is 90 years— might all be overlooked without this insider access.
While there is a slew of options from small motorboats to grander sailing vessels available to rent at the local marinas, the true luxury of a day charter around the islands comes in the form of a hotelbranded yacht as it waits to sweep guests away at a moment’s notice for excursions that range from half-day cruises to sunset sails. Katikies Santorini is one of the few resorts to offer this for guests in the form of a 63-foot Riva Vertigo motor yacht. A half-day itinerary around the Greek island is one of the popular itineraries that hotel guests can book to better appreciate the awe-inspiring terrain or to simply enjoy copious glasses of chilled Assyrtiko, Santorini’s native white wine, or diving in the Aegean Sea.
The yacht is also bookable to whisk guests away for a day on nearby Naxos or Folegandros, as well as on Paros and Antiparos. They also run private transfers from each of these locations, as well as from Mykonos, otherwise called the Island of the Winds (though there’s veracity to its breezy moniker, it may be more accurately labeled as the party island).
On Mykonos, Katikies features three categories of luxury villas that are the epitome of luxury. Their white-washed facades are in the island’s quintessential style, cascading over multiple levels down the arid hillside. They range from one- to three-bedroom villas that sprawl over multiple levels with spacious living rooms and private outdoor terraces outfitted with infinity pools and dark wooden furnishings and lightened by gauzy curtains and exposed white beams.
Regardless of the villa, the best part about this type of booking is the privacy it ensures. As a resort island, there’s no way around avoiding the buzz of Mykonos’ seasonal crowds. So having an exclusive space to retreat to where you can unwind at your leisure is a true luxury—that and the ensuing access. Villa guests receive priority access to all Katikies Mykonos’
restaurants, including the fine dining Botrini’s, an outpost of the Michelinstarred flagship in Athens.
When you’re feeling more social, the on-call concierge service will arrange any adventure you want throughout the island, from the popular beach clubs to Mykonos’ lesser explored farmland. Rizes Folklore Farmstead is an example of the latter. Literally stripping Mykonos back to its roots (the direct translation of Rizes), this family-owned farmstead features an authentic farm-to-table restaurant, sourcing produce like tomatoes, cucumbers and onions for the traditional Horiatiki (village) salad, served family-style alongside homemade pies, daily baked bread and underground baked meats. A reservation grants you access to the five acres that you can wander at your leisure, exploring the flourishing fruit trees and young vines, as well as the owners’ quaint quarters—popping into them under the summer sun confirms the practical use of limestone as a natural cooling agent.
Of course, for a more stereotypical scene, head to the beach club that started it all—Scorpios. Positioned on Mykonos’ southern peninsula, the club with its reverberating beats is the place to see and be seen, hosting internationally-acclaimed DJs who spin vinyl late into the evening, best complemented by a Scorpios spritz.
BY MERRILL CHARETTE
For Carlo Nuvolari and Dan Lenard, co-founders of the Nuvolari Lenard design firm, change is not only welcomed but actively pursued. It drives their design language forward, effortlessly blending form and function.
For many, the exterior of a yacht is the most visible aspect, and its sleek, sculpted lines often evoke a sense of forward motion. The Nuvolari Lenard team excels in this domain, having crafted some of the most iconic yachts in contemporary history, such as the 141.6-meter
Nord, the 115-meter Ahpo, and the 60.3-meter Comfortably Numb. They continue to redefine industry standards with groundbreaking designs like the 202-meter Centerfold and the NLPlus, which encapsulates the essence of an ideal superyacht in a compact 52-meter frame.
According to Lenard, the exterior is only one part of the design equation, and it is inextricably linked to the interior layout and design. Having recently taken over the art direction of the studio’s interior design department, he is reinforcing the form-function interaction while also revitalizing the essence of what an interior can be. “A yacht,” he asserts, “should be conceived as a whole. Separating external design from internal design reduces the possibility of elevating the entire yacht project to a higher level—that is, to the level of a work of art.”
This is part of the team’s continuous effort to evolve, anticipate future trends, and refresh their design approach, especially as owners’ attitudes change regarding style and environmental concerns. “We clearly perceive the expectations of today’s shipowners who, regardless of their age, think differently and think younger,” Nuvolari states. “The COVID pandemic marked the beginning of a new era. In recent years, interior design has often seen appearance dominate substance, with an excess in the use of special (and expensive) materials.”
“We want to reverse this equation,” he continues, “with a trend that will see the exaltation of true design, less formality in environments, less emphasis in decoration, and interior design focused entirely on the individual and wellbeing.”
To achieve this fundamental shift, the Nuvolari Lenard team is concentrating on two crucial elements: a keen attention to proportion and precise layout and lighting planning. “This is where the connection with the exterior design reveals itself,” Lenard explains. “The emphasis on light influences the relationship with the yacht’s exterior, determining the shape and position of the windows.”
The Orangery of the Centerfold project exemplifies this progressive transition to a new trend, dominated by themes of light and sight with a clear aesthetic that avoids excess formalism or superfluous ornamentation. Massive glass expanses surrounding the room both vertically and overhead define the space. According to Lenard, it is an internal setting on the yacht that allows visitors to experience the feeling and ambiance of the sea.
An additional crucial component of this reevaluation of interior design is the goal of enhancing consumer well-being and environmental sustainability. This element serves as a secondary motivator for Nuvolari Lenard’s updated interior design style.
Nuvolari has particularly focused on this, demonstrating the impact of using various materials and construction methods. He provides shipowners with extensive knowledge to elucidate these factors and assist them in making informed decisions. “We tend to condemn the use of certain materials only because we have limited—or tradition-distorted—information,” he says. “Often, we consider materials to be ‘sustainable’ that actually only have the appearance of being sustainable.”
Nuvolari cites natural leather as an example. “We frequently bemoan its usage, favoring synthetic leathers,” he claims, “but we overlook the fact that natural leather is a byproduct of the food industry. If discarded, it would have a detrimental effect on the environment.”
There are many such instances, which is why Nuvolari Lenard requests data and information from its suppliers regarding the source of materials and the methods utilized in their production to choose those that are more environmentally sustainable. “We are
eager to educate shipowners about how the use of specific materials and construction techniques significantly impacts interior design,” Nuvolari continues, “and the fact that well-being has become one of their main expectations.”
The team is expanding its environmental considerations to include the impact of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and the release of harmful substances in interiors, which can persist long after the yacht is delivered. This is significant because these compounds can affect the quality of the air we breathe. While this topic is hotly debated in civil engineering, it has yet to be generally addressed in yachting. Nuvolari Lenard is actively discussing construction techniques and materials that can
mitigate these detrimental effects with interior construction businesses.
By embracing change, Nuvolari Lenard not only advances its design approaches but also redefines the concept of design itself. “The success of interior design is no longer just stylistic but holistic, involving all aspects of the project—interior design, the relationship with exterior design, and the knowledge and correct use of appropriate and sustainable materials and techniques,” Lenard says.
“This collaborative and innovative process is precisely what Nuvolari Lenard has established and applies to the realization of its interior projects. It’s how we plan to develop a new generation of iconic designs, both inside and out.” Nuvolari-Lenard.com
BY AMY HIGGINS
Electronic music pioneer and DJ Steve Aoki has traveled the globe for decades, filling concert venues with pyrotechnics, lighting, lasers, and masses of zest-filled fans, and absorbing numerous, fascinating cultures. “I’ve been on a near-constant tour for over a decade now,” says the man who earned the designation of “Most-Traveled Musician in One Year” by Guinness World Records in 2012, which he still holds today.
“I aim to create music that evokes emotion and makes people want to move, capturing the essence of a moment and translating it into sound.”
As the founder of the nearly 30-year-old record label Dim Mak and one of the most well-known DJs in the world, it’s clear that music is Aoki’s passion. “It’s all about community building and pushing the music scene forward,” he says of the record label. “I love A&R (artists and repertoire) work — it’s always a great feeling to discover new talent and share it. We have a strong team managing releases, and I’m proud that we’ve survived this long and are still at the forefront of electronic music.”
While his affections lie in bringing people together through music, he’s also deeply involved in contributing to and supporting brain science and research through the Aoki Foundation. On September 22, 2024, the organization held its inaugural gala and fundraiser, Aoki Games, in Las Vegas to raise funds and awareness for brain research, brain health, and neurodegenerative diseases.
Jetset Magazine recently caught up with the two-time Grammy Award nominee to tune into his recent journeys. “Music is always at the core of what I do, so that’s the focus,” he says of his endeavors. “Everything else stems from that.”
Jetset: You recently released your ninth studio album, Paragon. What inspired this album? Are there any exciting collaborations you can highlight?
Steve Aoki: Paragon, my ninth studio album, is inspired by HiROQUEST, which is also an album series. I’ve done HiROQUEST 1 and 2, and they’re tied to a story I’ve been writing. The first book was released earlier this year, and while writing the second book, I developed an important concept called the Paragon Aura, which is crucial to the story. This aura
brings HiRO back from Heavenly Hell, where he’s stuck, and helps save the world.
Musically, Paragon brings me back to my dance roots, focusing more on my sound within electronic music rather than on numerous collaborations.
As for collaborations, I have a new song with Kenia Os from Mexico, another with Oscar Maydon, and several dance collaborations that I debuted at Tomorrowland. You can check out those new tracks on my YouTube page (youtube.com/steveaoki).
Jetset: Describe your creative process. What or who do you use as inspiration when creating your music?
Aoki: My creative process is dynamic, starting with an idea or feeling I want to convey. I draw inspiration from various sources, including different music genres, everyday sounds, and personal experiences. Collaboration with other artists also sparks new ideas. I aim to create music that evokes emotion and makes people want to move, capturing the essence of a moment and translating it into sound.
Jetset: You travel more than half the year for shows, business, and pleasure. What motivates you to keep this momentum?
Aoki: What motivates me is that I love what I do. About 98% of my travel is for shows, and I love performing for fans all across the world. I’m passionate about making music and connecting with people through it — it’s my biggest love.
Jetset: How do you pack your wardrobe when jet-setting?
Aoki: I have different outfits for shows and casual wear. When I travel, I’m very efficient — I try to wear everything I pack so I don’t carry too much. I prefer to travel with just a carry-on if possible, though for long runs, I bring extra luggage for show clothes. The rest, I can recycle and wear again.
Jetset: How do you work on new stuff when you’re always traveling? How do you keep things fresh?
To keep things fresh, I try to vary my sets and incorporate new music and visuals. I draw energy from the different cultures and audiences I encounter around the world. Working on new material while on the road can be challenging, but I bring my production laptop with me and take advantage of any downtime. Traveling and experiencing new places provide endless inspiration for my music.
Jetset: Where is your favorite place to visit worldwide, and why?
Aoki: I love visiting Japan; it’s my favorite place in the world. I’m also passionate about the ocean: free diving, cliff jumping, and just being in the water. When in Europe, I try to hit coastal countries and cities. In winter, I’m a big snowboarder and enjoy incredible mountains in places like Alaska, Japan, the U.S., and Canada.
Jetset: Do you have your own jet, or do you charter?
Aoki: I don’t own a jet. I charter jets, especially in Europe where the pace is rapid, and it’s impossible to get from one city to the next in the short time I need to play shows. So, private jets are a necessity in Europe, but I still fly commercial about 70% of the time.
Jetset: What do you look for when chartering a jet?
Aoki: The top priority is safety. If the jet has a bench that converts into a bed, that’s a major bonus since I lack sleep when touring. On summer runs, we usually travel with a 13- to 15-passenger jet so we can bring family and more people on the road with us.
Jetset: When you’re not traveling, where do you call home?
Aoki: When I’m not on the road, I’m at home in Las Vegas at a place I call Aoki’s Playhouse. It even has its own Instagram (@aokisplayhouse), where you can see some of the fun activities we do there. The house has my studio, gaming room, workspace, two gyms, and a health spa setup with hyperbaric chambers, cold plunges, and saunas. I also have a vast collection of collectibles, cards, and art. It’s a great place to unwind and enjoy life.
“I draw energy from the different cultures and audiences I encounter around the world.”
BY TOM ZENNER // PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVE LAUS
The route from chaos and omnipresent danger growing up in Iran to becoming a self-made global brand — that tens of millions consider the preeminent voice for information and education based on the foundation of capitalism and entrepreneurship — has been traveled once. It’s a journey fueled by perseverance, faith, ambition, confidence, support, vision, and, at times, damn good fortune. Patrick Bet-David is the lone navigator of this unlikely trek, which now finds him in the middle of his latest colossal undertaking after conquering the financial services world, pushing Valuetainment into the future with a plan to make it one of the most formidable media companies in the world.
Fans of his “PBD Podcast,” subscribers to the Valuetainment YouTube channel, or attendees of his popular Vault Conference business seminar (Tom Brady was the keynote speaker in 2023, and The Rock joined him in 2024) are captivated by his open and authentic communication style. He churns out content at an almost unequaled volume, generating billions of views on YouTube and social media. He authored two popular business books: “Your Next Five Moves” in 2020, a Wall Street Journal bestseller, and the Amazon Best Seller “Choose Your Enemies Wisely” in 2023. Simon & Schuster just released his new fiction book “The Academy. ”
Talk to anyone who knows Bet-David or works for Valuetainment and you’ll learn quickly how essential books and self-education are for him. They are not just a passion, but something embedded in his business DNA. He’s devoured thousands and makes those he finds most impactful required reading for current and future employees. Books are a treasure trove of information for Bet-David, literary gifts from accomplished people he constantly looks to glean knowledge from, so it’s only fitting that one he read decades ago played a role in launching the tidal wave of success that followed.
“I remember years ago, a phenomenal book was written called ‘Accidental Millionaire,’ the story of Steve Jobs by an author who couldn’t stand Steve Jobs. That book was part of the reason I got into the financial industry, which was purely accidental,” Bet-David said, explaining, “I had joined the Army because I needed to get my act together, and when I got out, I wanted to be a bodybuilder.
“I went to Santa Monica Community College, the same place Arnold Schwarzenegger went, and my dream was to be an actor in Hollywood and eventually marry a Kennedy or become a governor. I went to Mr. Olympia to study these guys and see what it takes, and I realized at 6-feet, 5-inches,
I was too tall. It could never happen. On the way back, I got a call from a manager at Morgan Stanley, who I was introduced to through a girl I knew who was a financial advisor. I got my first job in the financial industry by accident. And I fell in love with the business.”
Bet-David once needed military structure because he was addicted to action. A frenetic pace and non-stop chase are allies in building a successful business or media company, but that led him down a nonproductive and potentially destructive path as a teen. When his service ended, he accidentally discovered something else that changed his life; he found that the rush he felt from the world of finance was similar to the one he had when partying on one of his countless trips chasing fast times in Las Vegas. “I invested $1,000 in Nike stock when I got out of the Army, and that Nike stock went up to $3,000. It was awesome. I couldn’t believe how it happened. But I realized it was the perfect combination for me. I love people. I love numbers, and I love sales, so I let it rip.”
He was ready to take Wall Street by storm, but ironically and tragically, his first corporate gig started on September 10, 2001. The world turned upside down 24 hours later, and so did BetDavid’s career path. From that moment on, he would rely on himself and God, and he embarked on a quarter-century sprint to success that he has yet to slow down from.
He launched his financial services company, PHP, in a non-glamorous San Fernando Valley office park 25 miles and a world away from Hollywood. With the help of his wife, Jennifer, the company grew. Eventually, it had over 50,000 agents, and it was time for the Bet-Davids to find a new home for their expanding family and blossoming business. After 24 years of living there, he left his beloved California, making a tactical decision to plant PHP and expand Valuetainment to the more tax-friendly and centrally located Dallas area.
He launched his podcast out of his office in 2020 and was pleasantly surprised when 50 people found the first broadcast on the YouTube livestream enjoying the mix of commentary and perspectives on news stories, politics, pop culture, and business. Episodes now attract millions of viewers and listeners weekly. His days became a high-wire juggling act, navigating the eventual sale of PHP to Integrity Marketing Group in 2022 for a multiple nine-figure exit, guiding Valuetainment through massive growth, and expanding his reach as one of the most influential and popular content creators in digital media. It was the personification of a turbo-charged rocket ship ride to the American Dream on paper.
“I didn’t know what it was to be a CEO. I was a good salesperson. I was an average sales leader, but I had no idea how to run a fricking company,” Bet-David told Jetset. He recounted one harrowing moment in the early days of PHP when things nearly ended before they began. “Jen was pregnant with our first baby. At the same time, I was getting sued and had to pay out a settlement from a lawsuit I was part of with a previous company. The lawsuit would cost me roughly 90% of what I had in the bank account. I was down to my last $13,000, and I remember lying in bed, thinking, ‘Did I do the right thing starting this company?’
For someone who once questioned his ability to be a boss, Bet-David has positioned himself as a prominent influencer heading into and past the Presidential election, and he has zero concern if he loses advertisers.
“There was another time when we were living in Northridge, and I was making maybe $80,000 because I was not taking any money off the table, and I was looking at Jen lying in bed and asking myself again, ‘Did I mess up?’” he shared. “So many people warned me not to start a company because guys like me don’t make good CEOs. Maybe they were right. Nine years ago was the first time I was comfortable sharing this, and I made a video where I talked about how to deal with anxiety. I spoke about the level of anxiety and panic attacks I had in 2012 and 2013. I had to go to the hospital after multiple panic attacks. I thought I was having a heart attack, but I don’t drink or smoke, so a heart attack didn’t make sense. It was all caused by exhaustion.”
Bet-David leaves nothing to chance. He’s a disciple of data, never wanting to be caught off guard, uninformed, or unprepared. Chaos and crisis are viewed as opportunities and a chance to grow. “In 2014, I read a book that explained the difference between anxiety and depression,” he said. “The psychologist author broke it down. She said, ‘If you’re depressed, you’re spending too much time in the past. If you’re having panic attacks and anxiety, you’re spending too much time in the future.’ That hit me. I knew I was constantly thinking about the future.”
Bet-David said he added an affirmation to his life that has served him well but probably caused anxiety for his competitors and doubters. “It was called ‘Stop Trying to Be God.’ That job is already taken. Whenever I felt anxious, I would think about what I could do in the moment, and the results followed.”
Taking his foot off the gas about worrying about “what’s next” meant freeing himself to focus more on “what’s now.” That led to the stratospheric growth of his businesses. In 2021, he moved his company and family to South Florida and has already outgrown the space.
Bet-David made his mark on one industry while simultaneously laying a battle plan to attack another. But his meteoric rise had something in common with other game changers who never punch out on their internal time clock. Countless moments of crisis, paralyzing self-doubt, and potentially crippling obstacles that, more often than not, cause many would-be visionaries to tap out.
On the day of the Jetset photo shoot inside his private cigar lounge, not far from the converted bank vault transformed into his podcast studio, work is underway on a sprawling campus near the Fort Lauderdale airport that will soon be the corporate home to his budding empire. It includes a hangar, which will house his gleaming Gulfstream 550 — as much a luxurious, well-earned perk as a necessity for a man on a mission. “For me, it’s the 150-hour rule,” he explained. “When you start traveling 150-plus
• 120-plus full-time employees and adding up to 15 weekly
• Human Resources processes 500 to 3,000 resumes weekly
• The Vault business conference drew nearly 6,000 attendees in 2024
• MINNECT (App) has over 300,000 downloads (minnect.com)
• Launched a news site with AI capabilities to filter out political biases (VTnews.ai)
• Bet-David Consulting consults for nearly 5,000 businesses in more than 60 countries
• Moving to an 11-acre, multi-use campus in Fort Lauderdale
• Three 100,000-square-feet buildings with room to house 1,500 employees of Bet-David Consulting
• Multiple studios with the intent to have Valuetainment become “The Burbank of the East Coast”
hours per year, you need a jet. That’s when the numbers start working in your favor. And we’re now at a place where I’m intentionally here in Florida because I can go to Dallas, I can go to the West Coast, I can go to the Bahamas, or Mexico, or Europe. I can go to New York.”
Bet-David has good reasons to point his G-5 to New York. He spent a chunk of the summer with his family in the Hamptons, loves being there, and is looking to purchase a house. And he can check up on one of his other winning investments: the New York Yankees. The backstory is incredible. He’s looked to become a minority owner in a professional sports team and to become a majority owner one day. He’s had opportunities, but one of the caveats was a requirement to sign an NDA. “I said I’m not signing any NDAs unless the ownership of a team has to do with the Lakers, the Dodgers., or the Yankees.”
Months later, he received a call; his signature was needed for an NDA. An elderly friend of George Steinbrenner was looking to unload his minority share, and Bet-David pounced. Months went by. It was past a year with no movement, and Bet-David was sure it wasn’t happening because of his vocal political views. Then, he was summoned to Yankee Stadium.
A renowned and leading vintage card collector, the closest Bet-David had come to baseball immortality was owning several rare Mickey Mantle and Babe Ruth cards. In a room with top Yankee brass, Bet-David asked them one question: “I am very loud politically, and I’m gonna get louder, and I need to know if you are going to tell me I can’t say certain things because I’m telling you right now, I won’t listen. Will that be a problem?” The top decision-makers for the Yanks assured Bet-David they would never try to dictate how he runs his business or control what he says. However, there was one thing they wanted their potential new partner to understand about their corporate culture. They said, “We have one team rule here: Hal’s (Steinbrenner) the boss.”
For someone who once questioned his ability to be a boss, Bet-David has positioned himself as a prominent influencer heading into and past the Presidential election, and he has zero concern if he loses advertisers. Why would he? He recently halted outside ad dollars in favor of only promoting products under his umbrella of companies.
Bet-David’s interviews tend to turn into news stories. He was the person who questioned Florida Governor Ron DeSantis about his height shortly before a firestorm erupted and he faded out of the Presidential race. He’s interviewed Mafia leaders, flown to Romania to speak with Andrew Tate, and listened to Dan Bilzerian essentially cancel himself on an episode of his podcast. Shortly after a 90-minute sit-down with Dwayne Johnson at his Vault Conference, Bet-David said his radar is locked in on getting a sitdown with Vladimir Putin, and it’s most likely not a matter of if but when.
Watching his interview with Kobe Bryant, you’ll note his innate ability to create an environment where guests intuitively let their guard down. He carved a niche as a top interviewer because of his natural curiosity and preparation. Still, he also understands that making someone squirm and not becoming too comfortable is the recipe for compelling content. The ultimate get for Bet-David has and always will be Michael Jordan. If he wanted to speak to another sports GOAT, all he would have to do is open the door of his house and yell to his neighbor: soccer legend Lionel Messi.
“The American Dream” is a phrase that has been taken for granted by many, scorned by the ungrateful, and mocked by the ignorant. If you are asked for its definition and can’t find the words to describe it, tell the person to Google the guy on the cover of this issue of Jetset, and they can see what it looks like.
From our first meeting with Mike and the rest of the team, we’ve set out to create a golf course that offers playability off the tee and ample riskreward opportunities. Trout National will be both a challenging and exciting golf course with a thin line between birdie and bogey.
BRYON BELL, PRESIDENT OF TGR DESIGN
BY SI SI PENALOZA
In the realm of next-level golf embodied in enviable destinations, few names resonate with as much prestige as Tiger Woods. The legendary golfer’s evolution from indomitable champion to design visionary via his company TGR Designs is thrilling for golf aficionados. His latest courses to break ground—Marcella Club in Deer Valley, Park City, Utah, and Trout National - The Reserve in Vineland, New Jersey—promise provocative additions to the world of elite golf.
Woods’ involvement in Marcella goes beyond buzzy headlines—he’s as hands on as he is on a putter. “I was completely blown away by everything about Marcella,” Tiger Woods said on a recent site visit. “The amenities, commitment to excellence, not to mention maybe the best views I have ever seen on a golf course. I told the team this is the perfect canvas; we just need to make sure we live up to the challenge.”
Slated to open in 2025, the Marcella Club will feature an 18-hole championship course, marking Woods’ first mountain course. Situated within the exclusive Marcella Jordanelle Ridge and Marcella at Deer Valley communities, the course will engage golfers with strategic elements and sincerely spectacular scenery. Cody Winterton, division president of Raintree Investment Corporation, says, “Tiger’s focus and attention to detail is truly inspiring. It is an honor to have Tiger and his team in Utah working on this incredible project with us.”
Bryon Bell, president of TGR Design, shares with us exclusively, “Our goal is to utilize Tiger’s worldwide experience, limitless pursuit of excellence and love of golf to design a limited number of distinct, memorable golf courses that promote playability for all skill levels. Tiger is famous for setting a high standard and working hard to surpass it. TGR Design is no different.”
Conceiving a golf course in the dramatic Wasatch alpine terrain is no small feat. Spanning a staggering 8,000 yards, the course will be one of the longest in Utah. TGR aims to create a stamina-spiking, pleasurable course, reflecting Woods’ philosophy of blending beauty with tactical complexity.
“Because the Marcella Club course sits at an elevation of 7,300 ft, we expect the ball to travel 10 percent further than it would at lower elevation courses. While over 8,000 yards sounds long, it will actually play similar in length to other modern courses,” Bell elaborates. “Knowing the ball would travel further and potentially more offline at Marcella due to elevation, we focused on widening landing areas and green surrounds to keep the course playable.”
The high altitude adds a layer of complexity TGR embraced with enthusiasm. Thinner air affects ball flight, while rocky landscapes demand innovative solutions to encourage playability and aesthetic appeal. Such unique conditions allow TGR to push boundaries of golf architecture, creating a course as visually compelling as it is athletically challenging.
Few collaborations have sparked as much intrigue and anticipation as Tiger Woods and Mike Trout on Trout National - The Reserve. This members-only course in the 11-time MLB All-Star’s hometown promises sporting excellence in spades. TGR’s plans reveal a tantalizing glimpse into the future of this par-72 haven. Set to open in 2025, Trout National aims to join the ranks of the Mid-Atlantic’s prestige courses, aligning with the gold standard expected from a Woods-Trout partnership.
We can’t prospect TGR’s 2025 reveals without reflecting on the firm’s impressive inaugural project. El Cardonal at Diamante, the first
course designed by Woods under his TGR Design, remains a striking testament to his acumen off the green. In the sensual landscape of Cabo San Lucas, we find a departure from traditional desert layouts prevalent in the region. Instead, Woods drew inspiration from old-school Southern California courses, challenging golfers to concept their way around, demanding power, precision, creativity. Wide fairways and varied topography delight, while strategic bunkering provides a true test for veterans of the sport.
Woods’ legacy is written all over Diamante according to Bell. He affirms, “Tiger is involved in every aspect of TGR Design’s projects, from setting the vision to laying out out the golf
features on the ground during construction.” The Legacy Club at Diamante embodies Woods’ appetite for depth and intrigue. Fairways are generous, inviting bold play off the tee—yet the greens are where true course character is revealed. Each is uniquely contoured, requiring a deft touch and careful reading. In the Legacy Club, TGR meticulously captures the essence of timeless design, ensuring it lives up to its name in every measure.
Rounding out TGR’s contributions to Diamante is The Oasis Short Course, a par-3 as delightful as it is demanding. Shorter does not mean easier. This savvy design can turn a brief round into a breakthrough. Each hole presents a cryptic challenge, with intricate bunkering and
water features. Sparking creativity in shotmaking, it’s ideal for sharpening one’s short game. The Oasis doubles as a social space, where groups gather to enjoy the game in a convivial, scenic environment.
TGR Design leaves an indelible mark on golf architecture with The Hay at Pebble Beach. The transformation of this historic par-3 course into a dynamic gem showcases Woods’ golfing genius. Originally established by esteemed architect Peter Hay in 1957, The Hay is cherished by Pebble Beach devotees. TGR reimagines it as a modern marvel; the course now boasts nine par-3 holes, each delivering peak endorphins. Imbued with a sense of whimsy, the course features green complexes
requiring strategy and shot-making skill. From the shortest hole, which measures a mere 47 yards, to the longest at 106 yards, The Hay is as beguiling as it is ingenious.
The centerpiece of The Hay is the replica of Pebble Beach’s famed seventh hole. This iconic par-3, renowned for stunning ocean views, is a nod to Woods’ respect for the game’s traditions. It offers a taste of the challenges faced by professionals in the U.S. Open, all within the more relaxed setting of a par-3 course.
TGR’s most paradisiacal coup can be found in the resplendent allure of The Playground at Jack’s Bay, Bahamas. Tracing the mesmerizing shoreline of Eleuthera, the course ranges from
71 to 163 yards, each hole presenting a myriad of shot scenarios. Woods’ vision is evident in every undulation and contour, ensuring the course is not merely a test of skill, but a celebration of the game’s purest joys. Jack’s Bay itself is a sprawling 1,200-acre resort club and residential community of natural wonders and built opulence.
As azure waves caress the shores and Bahamian breezes whisper through palms, The Playground is an oasis where the game’s heritage meets its future. Here, TGR has crafted a masterpiece for golfers to explore and experience the very pinnacle of tropical course elegance.
With such diverse locations, how does TGR ensure each course has a unique identity while maintaining Tiger Woods’ signature? Bell reflects, “With each course TGR Design creates, we try to use the existing topography and highlight the uniqueness of the property and its surroundings.” Ultimately, every Tiger Woods course is not merely a place to play, but a journey into the spellbinding sublime.
The Trout National property was once home to a silica sand mine, giving us a unique foundation from which to build upon. We’ve incorporated sandy waste areas, remnants of the old mining operations, throughout to give the course its own character.
BY KAREN BROST
The origins of Parmigiani Fleurier date back to the quartz crisis of the 70s and 80s when the introduction of quartz watches significantly impacted the demand for Swiss-made mechanical watches. During that time, a young watchmaker, Michel Parmigiani, operated a workshop devoted to restoring antique timepieces when he was asked to restore an antique pocket watch for Switzerland’s prominent Sandoz family. They immediately recognized his talent and helped him establish his own luxury watch brand in 1996. The brand launched its first wristwatch, the Toric QP Retrograde, that year.
More than 25 years later, Parmigiani Fleurier continues to deliver a level of expert Swiss craftsmanship and design that reflects Michel Parmigiani’s dedication to excellence.
The company is now led by CEO Guido Terreni who has been in the industry for 20 years, including 11 years at the helm of the watchmaking division of Bulgari. He joined Parmigiani Fleurier because he was ready for a new challenge where he could apply his extensive expertise and love of watches.
“I wanted a project that was holistic, one that was rooted in the watchmaking culture,” he explains. “The size of the brand was not really so important, but it was more the soul of the Parmigiani Fleurier brand that attracted me, because it’s a very deep brand in knowledge, but also in the making, because it masters its parts, its components and its assembly. This was one of the most important things that I was looking for, because if you master your production, you master your destiny. If you have values that are very noble, like Parmigiani has, you are addressing a luxury which is extremely refined.”
very introspective work when I joined. It was January 2021, in the middle of the pandemic.”
“A metal bracelet watch, a very versatile and everyday watch, but one that was extremely refined, was our first priority,” he says. “The Tonda PF was born in a very small period of time because of the pandemic. It was a bit of an alignment of the stars because the capacity and production were free. It was quite impressive to say that we started designing three, four days after I joined at the end of January, and the product was presented at Geneva Watch Days seven months later and it hit in October.”
Terreni has led the company forward from both a creative standpoint and in identifying its purpose. He says the design process began with studying the values of the brand and choosing who they wanted to serve. “We did some
Next for Parmigiani will be the introduction of the TORIC collection this Fall, which will include the Toric Petite Seconde and the Toric Chronograph Rattrapante. “It’s clearly at a higher price point because we’re talking about a dress watch with a gold manually wound movement with dials that are in gold,” Terreni says. The Toric Chronograph Rattrapante will be produced in a limited edition of 30 watches to appeal to discerning collectors.
“The values of the brand and the values of the client are very connected,” Terreni says. “It’s about discretion. It’s about not being a loud brand. You come to Parmigiani not to show your wealth. You come to Parmigiani because you enjoy the refinement. You’re conveying your knowledge and your competence in discerning what you’re wearing. You don’t follow what others are asking you to put on
Rather than using the trendy term “quiet luxury” to describe his brand, Terreni prefers to use the expression “private luxury,” which is timeless. One example is the subtle use of the PF logo in an ellipse on the dial rather than spelling out the company’s name. “If you’re not showing off what you’re wearing, you don’t need it,” he says. “It’s much more refined to use graphism. The dial is unostentatious because the client is unostentatious.”
As Terreni notes, “True luxury is private and true luxury is personal.”
BY SIMON ROBERTS
In today’s luxury real estate landscape, a captivating trend has taken root, particularly in vibrant, highdemand cities like Miami: the seamless integration of luxury automotive brands into residential developments. This represents a departure from traditional luxury real estate norms, offering affluent buyers a distinctive lifestyle proposition that transcends mere living spaces.
Car-branded residences mark a strategic expansion for esteemed automakers such as Porsche, Aston Martin, Bentley, Mercedes-Benz and Pininfarina, extending their prestigious names beyond automobiles to curate comprehensive lifestyle experiences. This isn’t merely about brand expansion; it’s about crafting immersive environments where every aspect of daily life embodies the essence of automotive luxury.
Central to the appeal of these residences is their deep resonance with passionate car enthusiasts and brand loyalists. For many owners, investing in a car-branded residence is an
extension of their automotive passion—an assertion of identity and refined taste. Marek Reichman, chief creative officer at Aston Martin, underscores the profound affinity many Aston Martin owners have for their vehicles, often amassing extensive collections that reflect their dedication to the brand.
Beyond loyalty, car-branded residences epitomize exclusivity and status, aligning seamlessly with the luxury positioning of their automotive counterparts.
Living in a Porsche or Bentley-branded residence isn’t just about dwelling within beautifully designed spaces—it’s about inhabiting environments that echo the craftsmanship, materials and aesthetic finesse synonymous with these iconic brands. Bentley Residences, for example, integrate natural elements like wood, leather and glass, reflecting the opulence and sophistication found in Bentley automobiles.
Steven De Ploey, Bentley’s director of product and marketing, underscores the profound appeal of these residences among their clientele. For Bentley owners and enthusiasts, these
properties transcend mere living spaces; they embody a lifestyle choice and a statement of refined taste. By integrating the essence of Bentley’s craftsmanship and heritage into each residence, from the choice of materials to the design aesthetics, these developments resonate deeply with buyers who appreciate the finer things in life. Moreover, these residences are not merely seen as homes but as sound investments within the luxury real estate market. Bentley recognizes the intrinsic value of real estate as a passion point for their discerning clientele, a sentiment echoed across the industry as more luxury brands explore the intersection of
automotive excellence and architectural innovation. Each residence becomes a testament to the brand’s commitment to delivering exceptional experiences, from the moment one enters the lobby adorned with bespoke details to the private amenities that cater exclusively to residents’ needs and desires.
These car-branded residences go beyond conventional luxury living by offering bespoke amenities meticulously tailored to cater to the discerning tastes of affluent car enthusiasts. One of the standout features is the private “sky garages” accessible via special Deservator car elevators, a hallmark innovation exemplified by the 132-residence Porsche Design Tower completed in 2017 in Sunny Isles Beach, Florida. This architectural marvel allows residents to seamlessly transport their prized vehicles directly to their living spaces, combining practicality with an unparalleled sense of luxury and convenience. Imagine driving into a designated elevator, watching as it smoothly lifts your vehicle to your floor, where it elegantly parks within a glass-enclosed garage attached to your residence.
Other iconic examples abound, each a testament to the seamless integration of automotive excellence with architectural ingenuity. The Aston Martin Residences in downtown Miami epitomize luxury living across 66 stories, boasting a curated art gallery, spa and yacht marina among its lavish offerings. Adding to this illustrious lineup is Pininfarina’s Andare Residences, poised to redefine luxury living in Miami. Known for their iconic automotive designs, Pininfarina brings its distinctive touch to residential
architecture with Andare. The development promises a blend of Italian flair and contemporary luxury, featuring meticulously crafted interiors, state-of-the-art amenities and a design ethos that echoes the elegance and innovation synonymous with Pininfarina’s automotive masterpieces. Now in the pre-construction phase, Andare Residences aims to set a new benchmark for sophistication and exclusivity in Miami’s competitive real estate landscape.
In essence, these developments redefine luxury living by seamlessly blending automotive excellence with architectural prowess, creating environments where every detail reflects a dedication to craftsmanship and sophistication. The allure of these residences extends beyond their physical attributes; they embody a lifestyle synonymous with prestige, exclusivity and the utmost in personalized luxury. As the demand for integrated living experiences continues to grow, these car-branded residences stand as exemplars of innovation and opulence, offering a glimpse into the future of luxury real estate.
The success of these projects speaks volumes. The Aston Martin Residences, for instance, reported nearly full occupancy before its official unveiling—a testament to the compelling allure of branded residences among discerning buyers. According to the Knight Frank Global Branded Residences Report, the sector is burgeoning, growing at an annual rate of 12 percent. South Florida alone boasts over two dozen car-branded projects in various stages of development, underscoring the robust demand for luxury integrated living experiences.
However, with rapid expansion comes challenges. Industry experts caution against a “herd effect” where brands rush to emulate successful models, potentially diluting the exclusivity that defines these properties. Maintaining brand integrity amid market saturation remains a critical consideration for developers and automakers alike as they navigate the complexities of luxury real estate.
Parallel to the rise of car-branded residences is the significant influence of sports on luxury real estate. Developments adjacent to stadiums, athlete-branded residences and sportscentric amenities cater to a distinct segment of high-net-worth buyers seeking immersive, lifestyle-driven investments.
Developing luxury real estate requires foresight into economic shifts, urban planning and evolving buyer preferences. Developers like Gil Dezer of Dezer Development emphasize the importance of innovation and quality in projects like Miami’s Porsche Design Tower, Armani Residences and Bentley high rises. These projects not only bolster local economies but also redefine urban landscapes with their blend of automotive heritage and architectural grandeur.
Beyond Miami, the allure of car-branded residences resonates globally, from New York to Dubai, where similar developments are tailored to reflect local tastes while embodying the essence of renowned automotive brands. This global expansion underscores the universal appeal of luxury integrated living experiences that seamlessly blend automotive heritage with architectural innovation.
The economic impact of these developments extends beyond property sales. They contribute to local economies through job creation, tourism and increased property values, particularly in neighborhoods undergoing revitalization. Moreover, sustainability practices, integrated into developments like the Bentley Residences, enhance appeal and resonate with eco-conscious buyers.
Advancements in technology play a pivotal role in enhancing the functionality and appeal of car-branded residences. From smart home automation to advanced security systems and eco-friendly infrastructure, these innovations not only elevate comfort but also cater to the preferences of modern luxury homeowners who seek seamless integration of technology in their living spaces.
Looking ahead, the trajectory of car-branded residences appears promising, driven by a convergence of luxury lifestyle aspirations and the enduring allure of automotive excellence. As global urbanization continues and cities evolve into hubs of innovation and culture, the demand for distinctive, brandintegrated living spaces is expected to grow. The emergence of car-branded residences represents a compelling fusion of luxury automotive brands with high-end real estate. This trend not only reshapes urban landscapes but also redefines the parameters of luxury living, offering unparalleled opportunities for investment and lifestyle enhancement in major cities worldwide. Developers must innovate relentlessly, delivering quality and bespoke experiences to captivate discerning buyers in an increasingly competitive market. As the fusion of automotive prowess with high-end real estate carves out a distinct niche in luxury living, it promises to continue offering unique opportunities for investment and lifestyle enhancement across global markets.
BY BARRY LABOV
The most successful business leaders draw outstanding performances from their teams, much like the conductor of an orchestra. Just as an orchestra is comprised of distinct sections for strings, woodwinds, brass and percussion, a company has departments, teams, and often, dealer networks that need to be in harmony. It’s when they fall out of sync that the business, brand, products and people, including customers, suffer. A great leader will unite, align and inspire the best performances, bringing out all that differentiates and elevates a brand. Here are six ways to accomplish this:
Just as conductors turn their focus to the musicians, leaders must focus on their teams, ensuring they are performing at the highest level, together. Each department must understand the role it plays within the larger organization so it can create a masterwork. When people understand their responsibilities and roles, they can be truly productive. They’re also more likely to collaborate, which minimizes redundancy and enhances overall efficiency and effectiveness.
While conductors do not play a single note, they are ultimately responsible for beautiful music. An organization’s leader does not manufacture or sell the product but is responsible for inspiring all of those who do. It’s a leader’s role to provide significance to every individual who represents or affects the enterprise and ensure the right people are playing the right parts. One key person or department that is disengaged will negatively affect success for all. But when team members recognize their importance and the value of what they bring, it instills a deep pride that motivates them to perform at their best.
Part of giving teams meaning is communicating what differentiates a company or brand. An employee who believes in the uniqueness of their company is much more likely to be loyal, rather than viewing it as a steppingstone to bigger and better things. They recognize and appreciate their role in delivering something no one else does.
A company’s story is its great masterpiece. You would never try to rewrite the music of Beethoven or Mozart. Similarly, leaders
shouldn’t allow their company’s brand essence to get diluted. It’s their role to champion and reinforce the brand’s differentiation and mission throughout the organization. That means taking the opportunity to reinforce differentiators in every discussion, whether it’s an internal meeting with just two people, a large allemployee meeting or a one-on-one conversation with a customer.
The best orchestral performers are able to seamlessly play together with other musicians, as well as deliver solo performances when asked. Good leaders are able to build teams that can do both. Sometimes the job calls for strong people who are comfortable working independently. Other times, collaboration is needed to develop the right solution. The most effective teams are able to easily switch between the two styles of working.
Just like an orchestra, a company needs to be in sync, playing off the same sheet of music. Leaders must align their teams with company goals and the brand story. In other words, everyone must be moving in the same direction to be at peak efficiency. You can imagine the sound that would emanate from a group of musicians all playing a different composition. The varying tempos and notes would clash together into an unpleasant, random mess. In business, building harmony throughout an organization takes work. You might find yourself sounding like a broken record, but keeping teams aligned means constantly reinforcing the most important aspects of your business—your mission, vision, values, story and uniqueness.
The role of a conductor is to provide feedback, guidance and encouragement to musicians, helping them reach their full potential. In the same way, leaders should direct and provide the resources their teams need to achieve the company’s goals, as well as their own professional goals. This can take the form of training or coaching sessions that build on employees’ skills.
There’s much for leaders to learn from the way a conductor directs an orchestra. The best leaders, like the greatest conductors, bring out exceptional performances in their teams. They understand how to maximize individual strengths and bring them together to differentiate and deliver on the company’s mission. Try leading like a conductor and discover your organization’s greatest symphony.
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BY KEN MCELROY
Unlike in other countries, homeownership in the United States has always been very attainable. The playbook traditionally went like this: you graduate from school, rent for a few years and then buy your first starter home. Most people were out of the rental rat race by thirty-five years of age.
However, now the United States is moving towards a renter nation. Homes are now unaffordable to most people in their thirties, and many young people have given up on the prospect of being able to purchase a home. Instead of buying a home, many successful young people are moving into luxury rental units that are much nicer than a home they could afford.
Forever renting is being glamorized by the younger generation. They look at the lack of responsibility and the ability to move around as they please as the benefits of renting. However, this is a young person’s game. Most of them will want to settle down and raise a family, and homeownership and a set monthly mortgage payment provide the stability later on in life that most of them will desire.
What the younger generation needs to understand is the incredible upside to owning a property. To start, in the United States, banks offer a thirtyyear fixed loan that doesn’t move with inflation. Rents/mortgages are about thirty to forty percent of someone’s monthly expenses on average. Imagine if this cost is fixed for thirty years. It would mean that as you move up through life and your salary increases, that large cost of shelter will remain the same. If you are a renter, your rent will continue to slowly climb year over year.
In the United States, owning property is the main staple of building wealth. For most older Americans, their net worth is primarily the value
of their home. It is based on them paying down their mortgage over thirty years and the home appreciating over time. If the younger generation doesn’t have that, they will have a harder time building wealth and being able to comfortably retire.
As stated above, traditional homeownership is out of reach for most of the younger generation. The average cost of a starter home is over $400,000. That is why the successful kids of Generation Z are getting creative. Below are ideas I have seen from this generation on how they are obtaining homes.
This generation is all about affordability and house hacking provides this. House hacking involves purchasing a property and living in one of the rooms while renting out the others. The rent collected from the other rooms can offset the mortgage payment, making the property more financially manageable.
In a rent-to-own arrangement, you can rent the property for a specified period with the option to buy it later. A portion of your monthly rent goes towards the home’s purchase price. This allows you to save for a down payment over time. It is beneficial to the landlord as they are slowly getting paid on the property year over year vs. one lump sum which would be more heavily taxed.
While most of Generation Z is focused on living in the moment, those who want to set themselves up for success will own a home. Creative strategies like rent-to-own and house hacking can make homeownership more attainable at a younger age. The new narrative of “you will own nothing and be happy” is a lie, and this generation needs to open their eyes and understand that home ownership is the anchor of the American Dream.
• P o o y & O b e d i e n c e T r a i n e d
• L i f e t i m e W a r r a n t y
• H e a l t h T e s t e d
• 9 8 0 - 2 2 3 - 2 7 7 9 R E C H E R C H E
• S t a t e s v i l l e , N C
• N a t i o n w i d e T r a n s p o r t
BY DR. JOHN DEMARTINI
Do your daily life and work activities provide you with significant and lasting fulfillment? Do they make you feel like you are making a meaningful contribution to the world? If you can say “yes” to these questions, then you will feel more engaged and fulfilled in your life compared to those who feel that there is little or no meaning in how they live.
Work and money with meaning tends to lead to philanthropy—greater service and contribution to the world.
Work and money without meaning tends to lead to escapism or debauchery.
You have a unique set or hierarchy of values and priorities that make you stand out. Whatever is highest on your list of values is the value which provides you with the most purpose and meaning when acted upon and fulfilled.
Whenever you are sticking to high-priority daily actions, ones that fulfill your top three highest values, you will feel more purposeful, productive and alive. Your life will feel more meaningful and fulfilled.
Whenever you are allowing yourself to take on lower priority daily actions, ones that do not fulfill your top three highest values, you will feel less purposeful, productive and alive. Your life will feel less fulfilled.
Dedicating yourself to what is truly higher on your list of values liberates you from a quiet life of desperation and initiates a more engaging life of purpose, meaning and inspiration. This can add years to your life and life to your years.
There are two ways of adding purpose and meaning to your day:
1. Do what you love through delegating. 2. Love what you do through linking.
Doing what you love through delegating means identifying what is truly most inspiring and meaningful to you and focusing your attention and energy on these items. Saying “no thank you” to all other lower priority distractions and saying “yes” to what is most meaningful and fulfilling, liberates.
Loving what you do through linking means clarifying whatever lower priority daily actions you feel you are currently unable to delegate and linking them to what is most important.
“How specifically is temporarily performing this particular action step (until I can find someone to delegate it to) helping me fulfill what is truly most meaningful and fulfilling?”
When you are unfulfilled and feel your life is meaningless, you may seek immediately gratifying behaviors to compensate. You will possibly try to fulfill your gut with sugar, food or alcohol or fill your house, closets or garage with
consumer items or your mind with escaping drugs or thoughts of sex.
A few years ago, I was asked to assist a fellow executive performance coach colleague with consulting one of his wealthy entrepreneurial clients. This client previously owned a multibillion-dollar, multinational company, but had recently sold it, cashed out more than handsomely, and retired. Although this client was a moderate social drinker before retirement, he soon found himself escalating his drinking to the point of excess and throughout most of his overly leisureful day. When I spoke with this client on Zoom, he was sloshed and could barely speak fluently. He was fully aware of his drinking escalation but was having a challenge controlling his behavior.
I asked this gentleman when he first started noticing his drinking escalation. It was quite
evident to him that it began upon selling his business months earlier. I asked him why he sold his business. He stated that he was in his mid-seventies and was sensing it would be wiser to exit when he did before his health declined so he could “relax” and supposedly “enjoy” his leisure life after working so hard for so many years.
I jokingly (but not jokingly) told him: “There is nothing wrong with retirement as long as it does not get in the way of your meaningful work.” He was already starting to wonder if retiring and no longer working was truly as meaningful and fulfilling as he assumed it would be.
If you do not fill your day with meaningful actions upon retirement, you can begin to “lose” your faculties and end up with senility or indulge in immediately gratifying forms of debauchery as a compensation.
You have a unique set or hierarchy of values and priorities that make you stand out. Whatever is highest on your list of values is the value which provides you with the most purpose and meaning when acted upon and fulfilled.
I suggested that he consider renegotiating with his previous company’s new owners and leaders that he return and once again contribute his skill and expertise in the capacity of closing big multimillion or billion dollar deals for them for a fair compensation.
The client was brought to tears considering this suggestion and said he missed making his big global deals. So, the next week he did exactly what I suggested and almost immediately reduced his drinking by 90 percent. He kept his daily diary full by calling, scheduling and doing big deals, which kept his daily life more meaningful and productive. It was not the alcohol causing his excessive behavior. It was his reduction in meaningful, productive daily actions that resulted in his ungoverned behavior.
When you fill your day with high-priority actions that are truly meaningful, your blood, glucose and oxygen flows up to the executive functioning area of your forebrain, your medial prefrontal cortex, which then calms down the immediately gratifying, desire center of your brain, your amygdala, which allows you to more effectively self-govern any of your impulsive or addictive behaviors.
Meaningful service and contribution are now adding years to this gentleman’s life and life to his years.
Keep your day filled with high-priority meaningful actions before low-priority meaningless actions dissolve your life away.
Dr. John Demartini is a human behavioral specialist, educator, internationally published author, consultant and founder of the Demartini Institute. Drdemartini.com
OCTOBER 18 - 20, 2024
UNITED STATES GRAND
The 2024 Formula 1 Pirelli United States Grand Prix will take place over 56 laps of the 5.513-kilometer Circuit of The Americas in Austin on Sunday, October 20. Prior to the race, practice and qualifying sessions will be held beginning Friday, October 18. A variety of package options are available, including those for the BWT Alpine F1® Team Paddock Club™, a covered, climatecontrolled venue located above the F1® Team Garages on the Main Straight with views of the Starting Grid.
OCTOBER 22 - 24, 2024
NBAA BUSINESS AVIATION ASSOCIATION CONVENTION & EXHIBITION ( NBAA - BACE )
Las Vegas Convention Center, Henderson Executive Airport
NBAA-BACE is the only business aviation event that puts the most exciting disruptors, the top experts and the big-picture thinkers at center stage—redefining what is possible in aviation and changing the very definition of on-demand air mobility. Attendees will have an opportunity to get up close with the most cutting-edge business aircraft ever designed, the leading advanced air mobility vehicles taking flight and an exhibit floor packed with game-changing innovations that are making aviation safer, more sustainable and more accessible.
Breeders’ Cup
OCTOBER 30 –NOVEMBER 3, 2024
FORT LAUDERDALE
INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
As the largest in-water boat show in the world, the 2024 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show will have more than 1,300 boats on display and will showcase over 1,000 exhibitors. VIP ticket holders receive access to the Windward VIP Club located at the Hall of Fame that includes a premium open bar, gourmet food, access to the boat show one hour early and complimentary shuttle and water taxi service to and from all seven boat show locations.
NOVEMBER 1 - 2, 2024
Del Mar Thoroughbred Club, Del Mar, California
The Breeders’ Cup World Championships is the two-day, 14-race, year-end finish line of the racing season.
It starts with Future Stars Friday, where the stars of tomorrow compete in five Juvenile (two-year-old) races. The non-stop action continues on Saturday where the Breeders’ Cup will crown nine more World Champions across different surfaces and divisions, including the season-defining $7 million Longines Breeders’ Cup Classic.
NOVEMBER 2 - 10, 2024
San Diego, California
Celebrated as one of the top food and wine festivals in the country by Wine Enthusiast, the San Diego Wine + Food Festival will feature dozens of events, hundreds of domestic and international wineries and a celebration of craft beer and spirits. Local culinary legends and nationally acclaimed chefs will be in attendance, along with guest mixologists, James Beard Award-winning authors, Master Sommeliers, brewmasters, artisans and tastemakers from all walks of the culinary spectrum.
5 - 10, 2024
Dubai Design District, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
As the region’s largest design festival, Dubai Design Week is committed to amplifying talent from the region and presenting the possibilities of what can be achieved through design. Reflecting Dubai’s position as the design capital of the Middle East, Dubai Design Week’s varied program includes installations, new commissions, exhibitions, talks, workshops, a marketplace and the leading fair for contemporary design, Downtown Design.
4 – 9, 2024
Nelson’s Dockyard UNESCO World Heritage Site. Antigua, West Indies
The 63rd Antiqua Charter Yacht Show will feature an excellent selection of charter yachts—approximately 70 are anticipated. Activities will include captain’s and chef briefings, the Concours de Chef (chef and stewards/stewardess competition), yacht viewings, seminars, evening social events and an optional sail day. The show is an excellent place to network and meet other people in the industry, including yacht owners and captains, chefs and crew, brokers and marine vendors.
DECEMBER 6 - 8, 2024
Miami Beach, Florida
The American version of the show will feature leading galleries from five continents that will display significant works by masters of modern and contemporary art, as well as the new generation of emerging stars. The show is divided into several sectors, including the main sector (Galleries), large-scale projects (Meridians), works created in the last three years (Nova) and young galleries showcasing emerging artists (Positions). Guided tours, offered in partnership with ArtNexus, are available daily during show hours.
JANUARY 15 - 20, 2025
Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
As the epitome of exclusive culinary festivals, Cayman Cookout stands as one of the world’s most cherished celebrations of food and wine. Taking place on the shores of Grand Cayman, the 15th annual Cayman Cookout will be held at the Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman, the Caribbean’s first and only Forbes Triple Five Star Resort. The event offers a range of activities, from cooking demonstrations by renowned chefs to lively culinary competitions that showcase the talents of aspiring chefs.
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