JETSET / ISSUE 3 / 2024

PHENOM 300E

CITATION LATITUDE

CHA LL ENGER 3 5 0

CHALLENGER 350

GULFSTREAM G600

CITATION CJ3+

PHENOM 100

IT’S NOT PRIVATE, IT’S PERSONAL

NICHOLAS AIR continues to set the mark for what hightouch customer service should be. Our fleet of Owned and Operated aircraft have an average age of 5 years, ensuring the most reliable choice of aircraft anywhere in the industry.

Our aircraft ranges from the Very Light class Phenom 100 to the Super Midsize Challenger 350 and the new addition, the Gulfstream G600. Whether you are a private flyer seeking a new partner for your travels, or an industry professional looking for your new home, we’ve got you covered.

For over 26 years, NICHOLAS AIR has been solely focused on one mission--- yours.

This Mediterranean Island Retreat is the New Hot Spot for Sailing, Gaming and Luxury.

Jewelry Designer Geoffrey Good Takes Minimalism to the Next Level.

eVTOL—electric

Where to park your 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO.

How Multifamily Real Estate Can Help Protect Your Family Wealth.

How—and Why—to Align Your Brand with Your Customers’ Values.

Get to Grips with What Exactly Makes Aston Martin’s DB12 so Irresistible.

Set Sail in Luxury to Explore the Ancient Archipelago of Raja Ampat.

Would Lowering Interest Rates Be a Magic Bullet for the Economy?

Premium Private Jet Owner/ Operator flyExclusive Goes Public to Expand Fractional Ownership Program.

How an Innovative Solution to a Critical

Risk is Clearing a Path to

Listing all of the “Must Attend”

50 THE AGE OF SOCIAL AFFLUENCE

Inside Influential, Prestige Private Clubs.

56 FORM MEETS FUNCTION

The Luxury Automotive Brands Making Waves with Things that Aren’t, Well, Cars.

62 BEST OF BOTH WORLDS

Luxury Resorts That Combine World-Class Golf with Extraordinary Spa Experiences.

68 COASTAL CHARISMA

Two Oceanfront Courses and a Charming, Craftsman-style Lodge Make Torrey Pines a Winning Choice for Golfers.

72 AN INDOMITABLE SPIRIT

Michael Chandler’s Ascent from Humble Roots to MMA Eminence.

78 BONDING BEYOND BORDERS

The Luxury Buddymoon Trend Peaks at These Prestige Escapes.

Elevate Your Escape

At Aviara, our vision is to give forward-thinking boaters what they’ve always wanted—style, control, and luxury on their own terms.

Welcome to the latest issue of Jetset Magazine, where we dive deep into the extraordinary lives and pursuits that define modern luxury. This edition promises to be a thrilling ride, with stories that span the heights of athletic achievement to the cutting edge of technology and opulence.

Our cover star, Michael Chandler, embodies the essence of indomitable spirit. From his humble beginnings to his meteoric rise in the MMA world, Chandler’s journey brims with determination and sheer willpower. His story is not just about fights won in the octagon but the battles faced beyond it, painting a vivid picture of a man who never gives up. It’s an inspiring read that underscores the power of perseverance and passion.

Taking a leap into the future, we explore eVTOL aircrafts in a fascinating glimpse into how urban transportation is set to be revolutionized. Imagine cutting your commute time drastically and arriving at your destination with an aerial view! The possibilities are endless, and this piece delves into the technology that promises to transform our cities and lives.

We invite you into the world of next level automotive couture with “The Rise Car Gallery Homes”. For those lucky enough to own a 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO, we offer stylish inspiration on showrooms worthy of such exquisite machines. For sports car aficionados, we present an ode to the Aston Martin DB12 in “Love at First Sight”. This must-read breaks down what makes the model so irresistible, blending engineering marvel with aesthetic perfection. In “Form Meets Function,” we explore luxury automotive brands extending their innovation beyond cars, showcasing ventures into other realms of luxury living.

On the society front, check out our insider’s look into the age of social affluence across influential, prestige private clubs. Peek into the playgrounds of the elite, where connections are forged over fine wines and exclusive events. The story captures the essence of these modern-day salons and the allure they hold for the world’s most illustrious moguls, movers and shakers.

Travel enthusiasts will be captivated by our “Bonding Beyond Borders” feature, which spotlights the buddymoon trend among Hollywood jetsetters and pro athletes. It’s a fascinating look at how these luxury escapes are becoming the ultimate way to bond with your nearest and dearest.

From the high-octane world of MMA to the serene luxury of world-class resorts, this issue of Jetset Magazine is a celebration of the best life has to offer.

With warm regards,

Darrin Austin

CEO/Publisher, Jetset Magazine

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flight THE OF future

eVTOL—electric Vertical Take-off and Landing Aircraft—Projected to Revolutionize Urban Transportation.

BY JAMES PATTERSON

For as long as humans have wanted to fly, they have wanted to fly better. In the first instance of success, in 9th century Andalucia, the inventor Abbas ibn Firnas attached feathers to his arms, and glided some indeterminate distance “faster than the phoenix.” He afterwards decided a tail would have helped. Six centuries later, Leonardo da Vinci realized humans would need an exterior device to get off the ground, and sketched diagrams for the aerial screw and the hang glider. Not long after, in the Ottoman Empire, scientist LagârI Hasan Çelebi pioneered jet travel by jumping on a winged cone stuffed with 50 pounds of gunpowder. (Adding, in that way, crewed flight, along with croissants and vaccines, to the long list of “firsts” claimed by Turkey.) And so it goes on, through dirigibles and the Wright’s innovations, to autopilot and turbofan engines, the question in flight has always been “What next?”

If science fiction is the new realism, the common passenger might soon expect hovercraft or regularly breaking the outerspace barrier. Whether it’s the Jetsons, the Millenium Falcon or the police cars of Minority Report, the vision of aviation is one where flight is integrated into daily life in a way that is common, private and agile. Perhaps,

then, the answer to what is next in aviation is the eVTOL—electric Vertical Take-off and Landing—aircraft.

Brandon Robinson, CEO and co-founder of Canadian-based aerospace company Horizon Aircraft, is confident the future of flight lies in eVTOL. “Properly conceived,” Robinson says, “these new aircraft can be very disruptive to not only traditional helicopter operations, but also traditional regional aircraft. The ability to bypass traditional delivery hubs will increase speed and efficiency in the marketplace.” There are currently hundreds of eVTOL aircraft (the name encompasses both all-electric and hybridelectric varieties) at some stage of design, conception and use, according to the World eVTOL Aircraft Directory published by the Electric VTOL News.

As cities across the globe grapple with surging populations and escalating traffic congestion (another 2.5 billion people will be added to major cities by 2050), the space-saving element of eVTOLs is one of their key features. The ability to lift off as a helicopter does, without the need for runways, make them particularly adapted to navigating in (or over) congested urban environments. As well, both experts and investors have cited the incredible potential for the technology for fire, military, ambulance and military services.

Within the USA, Robinson points to the underuse of most aircraft infrastructure.

“There are 5,000-plus airports in the USA, but 30 percent of them serve 70 percent of all passengers. eVTOL aircraft promise to enable better use of the remaining 3,500 airports, changing how we travel and receive goods.”

Passengers complete the idea, and commercial flights might be available as soon as 2026. “Many believe they are witnessing an acceleration toward the launch of the first commercial eVTOL passenger routes,” Robinson says, adding that substantial investment is already pouring in. In early 2024, New Delhi-based private jet hiring company JetSetGo signed on to purchase 50 of Horizon’s

Cavorite X7 aircraft, with the intention of changing the scope of private flight in India.

As Horizon’s flagship product, the Cavorite X7 combines the versatility of a helicopter with the power of a fixed-wing aircraft. The wings of the X7 are uniquely inset with 14 lift fans that allow vertical take-off and tight maneuvering. Once at cruising altitude, however, the fans are covered by panels, allowing the X7 to fly like a standard airplane.

Besides the pilot, the X7 can carry six passengers up to 500 miles—the distance between Washington, DC and Montreal, Quebec. That range and capacity, plus a top speed of 250 knots, set the X7 apart—ahead—of other eVTOLs. On

a further commercial front, its versatile takeoff and landing abilities, plus its high carrying capacity—it has a useful load of 1,500 pounds —and ability to operate in both IFR and VFR conditions makes the X7 particularly useful for medivac and emergency situations.

The carbon footprint of the aviation industry is just as important for the emerging eVTOL sector, and an eye to eco-friendliness has been a key element of Horizon’s mission from the get-go. However, because all-electric powered eVTOLs are limited by the weight and scope of their lithium batteries, there is a trade-off to consider when considering range and function. “Some companies, like Horizon Aircraft, that perhaps have a bit more operational experience in their DNA, have opted for hybrid-electric power,” says Robinson. “This hybrid architecture enables novel, efficient configuration while still preserving valuable range, speed, and payload.” Running on a hybrid electric system, which charges the aircraft’s battery during flight, means the X7 is less restricted by the location of charging stations, and overall burns less fuel than similar aircraft making comparable runs.

The technology will come, lifting as it does, the capabilities and popularity of eVTOL. Robinson is realistic, but certain that change is coming. “Although many regulatory and technical hurdles remain before this vision can be realized, the future seems very bright from this perspective. The sector is poised for further growth as ongoing developments in technology and regulation create new investment opportunities in this emerging market that is set to revolutionize urban transportation.”

Time flying doesn't have to be time lost when you're flying with Gogo AVANCE. Elevate your inflight experience with Gogo.

AUDIO True BESPOKE

Len Davì is Set to Launch His Own Luxury Line of Headphones, Nearly a Decade and a Half After Helping Beats By Dre Become a Household Brand.

BY MIGUEL COSTA

From airport runways to the narrow walkways at high-end fashion shows, headphone manufacturers, in the last four decades, have pioneered new ways to transform what was once considered an audio accessory into a modern necessity. Corporations like Apple and Skullcandy spearheaded the renaissance during the early 2000s. Near the turn of the decade, a partnership by Monster Inc. and Beats By Dre ushered in an infrastructural revolution that would forever change the landscape of the headphones market using advanced gadgetry, stylish color schemes, and a never-before-seen campaign that highlighted the new gear with product placement in the music videos by the most popular recording artists (Eminem, Dr. Dre, Lady Gaga, etc.) at Jimmy Lovine’s music label, Interscope Records. Enter Len Daví. The seasoned enterpriser from Central Florida served as the Senior Vice President of Marketing and Product Development at Monster Inc. from 2008 to 2010. A pivotal timespan that saw earphones and headphones become the hottest tech trend on the planet. Today, Beats Electronics (formerly known as Beats By Dre) are the second-most used headphones in the United States. The enduring factoid stems from remnants of Len Davì’s groundbreaking work with the company nearly one decade prior.

Approximately four years after Len Davì helped launch the fashionable noise-cancelling headphones, the brand generated a revenue of $1 billion. Subsequently, Beats by Dre was purchased by Apple. With consumer demand at an all-time high, Len Davì traversed the upmarket and established DAVÌ Audio. Upon launching the new cooperation, he labeled his high-tech inventory “the first true luxury personal audio brand.” At the cornerstone of the company’s catalog are the soon-to-be-released DAVÌ Headphones. The multidimensional overear device features an elegant aesthetic by an Italian-based company called Italdesign and military-grade noise-canceling technology. Other intricacies include Bluetooth mechanics to circulate audio signals, tweeters to generate a higher frequency, an analog audio input, and a USB-C input for data (and to power the device). Components such as these cater to their targeted luxury consumer base. The product’s attributes will also give steady buyers a sense of familiarity that began when the market surged—with a twist and several upgrades. During an exclusive interview with Jetset Magazine, the Founder/CEO recently shared what distinguishes his new vision from the audio technology that once helped put him on the map.

“Beats by Dre and Bose are perfectly good mainstream products, [but] DAVÌ exists in a category of its very own,” Len Davì said. “At DAVÌ, we are delivering world-class performance that can and will be sought after by film, audio, and recording engineers, but we have a much wider audience. Anyone that is in search of exquisite craftsmanship, stunning design, advanced ergonomics, and comfort, along with an incredibly immersive audio experience will want to own DAVÌ. As a true luxury brand, DAVÌ offers fully custom-made creations for those who desire the headphones to align with their personal aesthetic preferences or blend seamlessly with the opulent surroundings of a private jet, mega yacht, or luxury residence.”

According to reports, the global headphones market was valued at nearly $60 billion in 2022, and the annual growth rate is projected to elevate the revenue beyond the $180 billion threshold by 2032. DAVÌ Headphones will officially enter the high-end consumer space in the latter part of the Summer (or early Fall) with a base price of $27,000. Their inaugural

merchandise drop will commence during a commercial brand war between established empires such as Sennheiser and Focal, which currently boast the two most expensive headphones on the market. Much like the aforementioned leading brands of the sector, Len Davì’s new listening device will showcase state-of-the-art technology, elite craftsmanship and, deluxe collaborations.

“DAVÌ headphones transcend into the realm of art– they are as much engineering marvels as they are works of art,” Davì said. “We have pushed the boundaries of possibility, inventing new technologies where none existed and creating innovative acoustic solutions where others fell short, with no compromises allowed. From the exotic space-age materials, and the “Swiss watch-like” mechanical complexity, to the technological sophistication, there is no equal. DAVÌ boasts high-precision proprietary transducers made in our advanced facility, along with cutting-edge microelectronics. DAVÌ also provides a stunning custom-made travel case to complement our headphone(s).”

LEN DAVÌ

Investing in Fine Wines

What You Should Know, Wines to Consider.

BY KATY SPRATTE JOYCE

Sip, sip, hooray. The market for fine wine as an investment option has soared in the last decade, with prices rising an astonishing 149 percent over that span, according to the Knight Frank Luxury Investment Index, which monitors the annual returns on collectibles (like cars, wine, and jewelry).

“Rare wine is one of the two most popular alternative investments, along with art, in top American households,” shares Dave Parker, founder and CEO of Benchmark Wine Group, a leading source of fine and rare wines worldwide. “The reasons are clear. It has stood the test of time, appreciating well over the years, doing so in cycles that are often independent of other markets, providing good diversification of an investment portfolio. Being an avid wine collector gave me perspective into the various collectible wines of the world, the available sources, and the changing landscape of the hobby as it steadily grew into a true investable category,” Parker explains.

WHAT INVESTORS SHOULD KNOW

“For investments, I stick to three rules: provenance, original packaging and storage,” says Michael Kennedy, sommelier, winemaker and founder of Fraîche Wine Group. Ideally, investors should buy directly from the domaine, shipped by air and temperature-controlled, in the”original wooden case” (OWC), and stored in a temperature-controlled cellar. “If you keep these three rules intact, it greatly increases the value and salability of your wines,” he expands.

Parker says, “First and foremost, they need to understand what wines they like and what collectible wines fall into that category.” The best way to determine what wines can be deemed collectible is to refer to a secondary valuation reporting site like the Wine Market Journal. This action allows for a quick overview of wines traded at auction and at rare wine retailers, plus details about how their value has changed over time. “Collectors also need to know where to source pristine, collectionworthy products at efficient prices and where they will store what they buy,” he concludes.

The Best Regions for Fine Wine Investments

According to Kennedy, the most collectible wines tend to come primarily from Burgundy, Bordeaux, Champagne and Napa Valley. “Of course, some great wines from Rhône, Loire, Germany, Italy, etc., could be included in any

great collection, but those four regions are the most widely collected and highly valued,” the wine expert says. Straying from these four regions creates more risk in the consistency of value and trends. “Within the classic four, staying with the top producers provides more security.”

Parker expands, “While top Bordeaux had long been the most invested-in wine, more recently, top Burgundies, Champagnes, and California wines have joined and have, in many cases, appreciated more.” He suggests starting within your own personal price range. “If you’re uncomfortable paying more than, say, $100 per

bottle, start there. There are good collectible wines from regions such as the Rhone, Tuscany, Piedmont, Priorat, Ribera, Rioja and Washington State that have joined the collectible cadre in roughly that price range, and a great many have appreciated substantially,” explains Parker. Exploring your preferences is another great starting point. For example, if you enjoy sweeter wines, Sauternes and ports are a couple of classic collectible choices. “They keep well, and they are very affordable for the amount of bottle age you can get,” he says. “That way, even if a wine you select doesn’t appreciate in value, if you buy what you know and like, you can always drink and enjoy it.”

WHERE TO SOURCE FINE WINES

Beyond specific regions, it’s helpful to know where to find wines as an investment tool. It’s critical to buy from a trusted source. Kennedy shares, “Experience and reputation are key— finding people you trust is everything.” Though many places sell the world’s top wines, only a few are entirely without blemish. With the rise in counterfeited wines, gray market wines and poor storage, it’s something to be aware of. “Some of my favorites are Hart Davis Hart in Chicago for auctions and local retailers that bring in the wines directly from the domaines. In Napa Valley, purchasing directly from the estate is the absolute best practice,” he says.

Over Benchmark’s twenty-plus years in this industry, they’ve developed a method to ensure the highest quality product. Parker explains, “We look closely at the product sources. If the source bought the product directly on release, has stored it fastidiously and has retained the original purchase records, they get strong consideration.” This is known as checking for provenance or authenticating the wine based on the record of ownership. Then, every bottle is hand-inspected. To be considered “investment grade,” the wine must be in pristine condition and come in the original case.

BUYING FOR SPECIAL OCCASIONS AND GIFTS

“Those just getting started with collecting should add high-quality wines for special occasions and gifts that won’t break the bank but will still be suitable for these events,” Parker says. To that end, most people work toward building a balanced cellar with a few Bordeaux, upper-end Napa Cabernets, whites, Champagnes and Pinot Noir-based wines, as well as a few Italians and a smattering of unusual wines. “Moderately priced, alwaysgood Bordeaux include Gloria and Lynch Bages. Good Cabernets in this range include Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars, Ridge Vineyards, and Caymus,” he adds. Some excellent, readily available but not-too-expensive whites include Stony Hill Chardonnay, Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc, and Louis Latour Pouilly-Fuisse. Plus, Parker looks to NonVintage Brut and Rose Champagnes from respected producers like Louis Roederer and Taittinger for affordable Champagne. “You can trust Rochioli Vineyards from Sonoma and Domaine Drouhin to show what the new world can do with Pinot Noir,” Parker expands. “I like to pour Joseph Drouhin Cotes de Nuit Village alongside to compare and contrast. From Italy, I like to have some midpriced Barbaresco and Tuscans on hand from Produtorri del Barbaresco,” he says.

WINES FOR SERIOUS COLLECTORS

“For the serious collector looking to age wine for long periods and have impressive bottles for very special events with top collectors, and perhaps as investments, you can take that same breadth rule and select from the top of the market,” explains Parker, “[like] having some first and second-growth Bordeaux.” In this vein, according to Parker, Château Margaux, Haut Brion, Leoville Las Cases, and Palmer are all great choices, and Lafite Rothschild is the most widely known. Next, look for Grand Cru and Premier Cru Burgundy, like Louis Latour and Domaine Leflaive, some well-respected, non-bank-breaking choices. On the other hand, Ramonet, Roumier, Lafon, and Dujac turn heads if you’re looking to splash out.

“Upper-end Champagnes that are both respectable and non-bank breaking include Delamotte (the second Champagne of Salon) and Philipponnat (my favorite being the Clos des Goisses),” expands Parker. He also suggests having a few rosé Champagnes in your cellar, too. “They make especially impressive gifts and special occasion wines and are the universal food-friendly wine,” he says. A great pick from this category is Cristal Rosé.

On the Italian side, top-end choices should include Super Tuscans like Tignanello, Ornellaia, Solaia, Sassicaia, and Massetto, according to Parker. “In Piedmont, it’s Giacosa, Conterno and Gaja.” There’s more to love from Italy, too, like must-have Brunellos Soldera and Biondi Santi and Chiantis such as Le Pergole Torte and Fontodi.

“Add in Chave from the Rhone, Alvaro Palacios & Vega Sicilia from Spain, and Penfolds Grange from Australia and you have a good start on a world-class cellar,” Parker says. Finally, find a few half bottles of d’Yquem and some well-aged vintage ports from Taylor Fladgate and Fonseca to “wow” people who don’t think they like dessert wine,” Parker adds.

Additionally, Kennedy has a couple of rare picks to suggest for building a stellar cellar. First, the 1990 Domaine Jean-Louis Chave Cuvée Cathelin. “This is one of the great rare wines of the world, from my favorite producer in the Rhône. . .perhaps Syrah at its finest,” he says. Another favorite is Domaine d’Auvenay Criots Bâtard Montrachet, “in the argument for greatest Chardonnay on Earth,” Kennedy explains. “A wine I will certainly never buy, but if someone opened it for me, I’d be thrilled, as

[it’s] impossible to acquire for less than tens of thousands,” he adds.

EXPERTS’ PERSONAL FAVORITES

Still not sure where to start? We asked Kennedy and Parker for their personal favorite bottles from their own private collections. “I’m crazy about 00 Wines from Oregon, some interesting older vintages of Rioja such as Tondonia, Priorat like Clos Mogador and Barolo from Prunotto and Borgogno,” Parker shares. “I dream about the next opportunity to drink DRC La Tache and Guigal La Turque,” he adds. For Kennedy, his choices stick closer to home. “The 2014 Component Cabernet Franc Napa Valley— the first bottle of wine we ever made. It is my most dear possession by far,” he says. Another pick is Domaine Armand Rousseau Clos du Château 2016 in Magnum, “one of my favorite expressions of Pinot Noir from a winery that I rarely have the opportunity to enjoy,” he adds.

PROPER STORAGE AND HANDLING

Once you find and procure investment wine, whether directly from the winery or through a reputable third-party site like Benchmark, it’s vital to store it properly to help ensure

it retains and increases in value. It’s also essential to work with a trustworthy or vetted seller so you know they are storing it correctly. “Storage is paramount, so having these wines at a wine-specific storage facility provides a great deal of security and confidence in the sale,” Kennedy adds.

Another critical issue is handling. Parker explains that “transportation needs to be thought through to avoid hot conditions, and storage needs to be under ideal conditions: cool, roughly 55 degrees Fahrenheit, humidity that is neither too high nor too low, and quiet, dark, conditions.” Additionally, he says to avoid the type of metal racks that can damage wine bottle labels.

TIMING OF WINE INVESTING

Wine as an investment isn’t generally a quick turnaround option. “There is no great answer to this, as so much depends on preference, but from an investment standpoint, I recommend a 4-10 year hold,” Kennedy says. Parker concurs, adding, “You should have an investment window of at least seven years to recoup the costs of buying, selling and storing.” But overall, “Investment-grade wine truly is a great liquid asset,” sums up Parker. Cheers, indeed.

SavoringSips Worth

TAFER Hotels & Resorts Partners with El Cielo Winery to Produce Three Distinctive and Exclusive Wine Blends.

BY TOBY THOMPSON

Relaxing at a luxurious oceanfront resort in Mexico is an ideal way to make the stresses of daily life simply melt away. And the experience is made even better when you can enjoy it while sipping exclusive blends of wine you won’t find anywhere else in the world. The team at TAFER Hotels & Resorts understands this, which is why it recently introduced its inaugural TAFER Wine Program in partnership with El Cielo Winery.

The wine program was introduced earlier this year with a series of multi-course gourmet events at TAFER’s award-winning resorts in Los Cabos, Cancun and Puerto Vallarta. The first offering, named the Voyage Collection, includes three wine blends produced exclusively for TAFER by El Cielo Winery. The renowned winery grows 15 varieties of grapes on 86 acres in the Guadalupe Valley in Baja California, a wine growing region known for its unique terroir. In keeping with its name “cielo,” which means sky or heavens, the winery gives each of its wines an astronomythemed name.

“We are very excited to offer our signature hand-crafted wines across our portfolio of TAFER Hotels & Resorts,” says Enrico Lindenhahn, vice president of operations for the company. “These exquisite varietals reflect the very best of Mexican viticulture and will further elevate the gastronomic program throughout our various dining destinations. By partnering with El Cielo Winery, which boasts expert winemakers who are dedicated to producing high quality wines in Mexico’s foremost wine region of Valle de Guadalupe, we are able to provide our guests with premium wine as a part of a truly unforgettable and elevated vacation experience.”

The TAFER Voyage Collection encompasses three exceptional varietals— Phoenix, a woody Cabernet Sauvignon blend of franc, merlot and malbec; Stellar, a refreshing chardonnay with notes of pineapple, guava and nutmeg; and Solstice, a rosé blend of zinfandel, malbec and Sangiovese with notes of peach and citrus. Resort guests can enjoy the TAFER Voyage Collection wines at any of the onsite dining destinations at TAFER’s Garza Blanca Resort & Spa and Hotel Mousai properties in Los Cabos, Cancun and Puerto Vallarta.

The TAFER Wine Program is part of the company’s initiative to bring innovative and unique experiences to its guests. Another example is

the Meat Sommelier Program TAFER recently debuted at its signature steakhouses, Bocados Steak House, Karuma The Art of Grill and La Casona Steak House & Seafood Grill at select oceanfront properties in Cancun, Los Cabos and Puerto Vallarta. Through this unique program, TAFER’s knowledgeable Meat Sommeliers guide diners through the intricacies of the meat selection process to help them choose just the right cut that will meet their unique tastes and preferences. The Meat Sommeliers are well versed in the types and tastes of meat cuts, where they are sourced and the different types of cattle breeds, from Angus to Wagyu. These experts can also walk guests through how the aging and grilling processes are performed.

If you’re wondering where you can go to indulge in these unique food and wine offerings, you’ll have plenty of choices. The family-friendly Garza Blanca Resort & Spa and the adults-only Hotel Mousai each operate oceanfront resorts in Los Cabos, Cancun and Puerto Vallarta. No matter which of the six resorts you choose, you’ll find a choice of luxury suites, gourmet cuisine, a world-class spa and refreshing pools among the amenities. Some suites even come equipped with a gourmet kitchen, and if the idea of having a oversized hammock where you can relax and kick back on your oceanview terrace beckons to you, you can find that, too.

Planning to travel with the kids? Garza Blanca Resort & Spa offers a Kids’ Club at each of its locations in Los Cabos, Cancun and Puerto Vallarta. Designed for kids between the ages of 4 and 12, the club offers a full range of fun activities, including crafts, games, pool time, movie time and soccer on the beach.

TAFER resorts also offer the option of choosing an all-inclusive plan when booking reservations. The exclusive Voyage Collection wines are included as part of the Gourmet Culinary All-Inclusive Plan, which covers all food and beverages enjoyed at the resort with the exception of a few premium menu items.

If exclusive wines, extraordinary cuisine and luxurious suites and amenities offered in a beautiful oceanfront setting sound appealing to you, then any one of TAFER’s six resorts in Los Cabos, Cancun and Puerto Vallarta would make a heavenly choice. Taferresorts.com

GARZA BLANCA RESORT & SPA CANCUN

GARZA BLANCA RESORT & SPA LOS CABOS

HOTEL MOUSAI CANCUN

HOTEL MOUSAI PV

MONTE The New CARLO

This Mediterranean Island Retreat is the New Hot Spot for Sailing, Gaming and Luxury.

BY ROBIN CATALANO

In Kyrenia Harbor, along the base of the panhandle-shaped northern coast of Cyprus, a Ferretti 670 cruises past a moored Gulet 27m where a group of swimsuit-clad passengers lounge, cocktails in hand, on a snow-hued sectional sofa. From the deck of the newly docked yacht steps a man in a gray linen suit, the collar of his shirt unbuttoned and fluttering in the breeze. He offers a hand to a sun-basted woman wearing a billowy, hibiscus-print maxi dress and gladiator sandals. Across the way, a dealer’s showroom’s worth of luxury car brands—BMW, Ferrari, Aston Martin, Lamborghini—motor into the downtown, ferrying assorted VIPs and European glitterati.

The scene might feel familiar, and it’s about to get even more meta. Northern Cyprus, the burgeoning resort casino capital of the Mediterranean, has positioned itself to become the “new Monte Carlo,” a place for high rollers and yachting enthusiasts to stay, sail, play and maybe even risk it all in glitzy spaces that have the throwback glam of a James Bond film.

The southern portion of the island, often referred to as Greek Cyprus, boasts Europe’s largest gaming resort, the breathlessly named City of Dreams. From Hong Kong gambling powerhouse Melco, the facility has 14 floors, 1,000 slot machines, 100 gaming tables, nine restaurants, and its own family adventure park.

But that hasn’t stopped northern third of the island, self-declared by the government of Turkey as the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, from angling for a piece of the industry pie—which exceeds $100 billion annually in Europe, an increase of eight percent since before the pandemic, according to the European Gaming & Betting Association. The island’s industry traces its roots to an investment from Cypriot-born Erbil Arkin, who opened the island’s first casinos in the mid-1980s, in a bid to create the “Las Vegas of the Middle East.”

The Turkish government has since capitalized on the momentum, sinking significant funding into Northern Cyprus and courting a variety of resort brands. Its efforts have resulted in the building of 32 resort casinos, which employ roughly 80,000

people, in a region only slightly smaller than Rhode Island. Two more are in development for 2024, with another pair to launch in 2026.

The newest to date is Kaya Palazzo, in Kyrenia. It debuted pre-pandemic, only to be shuttered until its grand reopening in 2023. “Casino tourism is developing every year in Northern Cyprus,” says Kaya Palazzo Sales Supervisor Mustafa Kirtas. He believes the island has a “big geographical advantage” compared to the other popular casino destinations, namely 11 months of sunny weather, historic sights and plentiful activities within close proximity. Another bonus: the current record-low exchange rate of the Turkish lira against the dollar.

Gambling was outlawed by Turkey’s conservative religious majority until 2019. Once the government changed its tune, the money began rolling in. Over the past five years, visitation numbers to Northern Cyprus’s casinos have ballooned to 400,000, raking in $300 million dollars annually—an “economic lifeline” for the mainland, according to an analysis by the Agence France-Presse.

This has stoked fears of a darker type of tourism. For its part, the government of Northern Cyprus has taken a proactive stance, including, Kirtas says, “establishing clear regulations that… ensure fair play, player protection and stringent measures against money laundering.”

It remains to be seen whether the runaway success of the Northern Cyprus gaming industry will stoke new tensions on the island, which has been divided between Greek and Turkish factions since 1974. Still, it’s hard to deny the appeal of the north’s resort casinos, which blend the thrill of the tables with an extravagant dose of Turkish hospitality.

Kaya Palazzo, for example, was inspired by the design of the Palace of Versailles, with majestic rectilinear architecture, genteel gardens overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and interiors to rival the plushest European manor house. King Suite Sea View Rooms (starting at $1,200/night) are larger than the average New York apartment at 1,300 square feet, and have velvet-upholstered seating areas, window-view jacuzzi tubs and generously appointed his-andhers bathrooms. The hotel offers four additional classes of suites. The most decadent is the Royal Spa Suite Swim-Up Room (starting around $3,000/night). At 3,200 square feet, it sports three bedrooms, two jacuzzis, three bathrooms, a private swim-up pool and its own hammam, steam bath and massage room.

No matter the suite class, accommodations come with the assistance of a private butler, coffee and tea service, and a five-tiered dessert tray that features handmade delicacies like baklava, helva, chocolate truffles and Turkish delight studded with pistachios, saffron or rose petals.

Among Kaya Palazzo’s amenities, five a la carte restaurants serve everything from multicourse traditional Turkish foods to contemporary twists on Italian classics. Guests can reserve a waterfront cabin with overwater hammock, or be chauffeured into downtown Kyrenia in one of the hotel’s fleet of BMWs for sightseeing, boutique shopping or offsite sips and bites at hip new culinary hotspots. Kaya Palazzo’s on-premise spa ups the ante with more than a dozen choices of aesthetic services and bodywork treatments, including an authentic Turkish hammam.

Time will tell if the destination will be mentioned in the same breath as Monte Carlo or Las Vegas. But for now, Northern Cyprus has managed to capture the imagination of adventurous spirits who seek untold riches—of both the financial and cultural variety.

Explore Egypt

With the world’s most renowned archaeologists

Dr. Mostafa Waziri

One of Egypt’s Heads of Antiquities

Dr. Khaled El-Enany

Egypt’s First Minister of Tourism & Antiquities

No one can tour Egypt like this –except for you, when you come and join us!

Dr. Zahi Hawass

World’s Most Famous Archaeologist

Enjoy exclusive VIP access to Egypt’s greatest wonders

VIP tour of the Grand Egyptian Museum, the largest archaeological museum in the world

Private visits to the Giza Pyramids and Luxor Temple for a crowd-free experience

A chance to stand between the paws of the Great Sphinx instead of seeing it from a distance

Private entry to the Great Pyramid of Khufu, with a visit to chambers closed to the public

Private entry to the Valley of the Kings and King Tut’s Tomb

Tours of active excavation sites, including the newly discovered Lost Golden City

Special access to Taposiris Magna Temple, the likely long-lost resting place of Cleopatra

And many more once-in-a-lifetime experiences!

Travel in true royal style – stay in historic hotels, sail on a luxury Nile cruiser and savor the finest cuisine.

START YOUR EXTRAORDINARY TOUR OF EGYPT TODAY

MINI MAL ISM,

Manifested

Jewelry Designer Geoffrey Good Takes Minimalism to the Next Level.

BY ANNIE STOPAK

It’s rare to discover jewelers who find pleasure in the heart of our experiences, placing little emphasis on intrinsic physical beauty. One of these jewelers is named Geoffrey Good. Not only is his name a sentiment of endless generosity, but his work reveals a scintillating world of evocativeness and spirited creativity.

Boasting an extensive career, Geoffrey Good has studied for decades how to captivate his clients on a deep emotional level. His collection demonstrates this devotion to excellence,

merging conventional methods with aesthetic value to form understated essentials.

Created using only the finest materials, each custom jewel from his collection offers an opportunity to evoke a unique personal discovery. Evident in his designs, this minimalist style is intricately displayed to capture the attention of those who seek it.

But beyond the physical quality of gems is an even better story—an inspiring anecdote pieced together from nature, culture and time with

very little influence from the jewelry at all. The essence of Geoffrey Good’s brand resonates internally, creating a connection with those who place it in their hands.

Born from a passion for establishing mutual trust with his clients, Good’s designs exude a sense of whimsy and love for life. His intuition led to the creation of meaningful adornments that inspire moments from the past that feel familiar yet profound. Binding this palpable bond between designer and shopper lays the foundation for a successful business, one where clients feel compelled to come back.

“We tell a story together, all of us becoming part of the context,” Good said. “The collaboration between myself and clients forges a bond that enriches both of us. It is a narrative that ideally just gets richer and more rewarding with time.”

But it is truly diving into the intricacies of his past that bring awareness to the gifted designer’s positive trajectory.

As a young child, Geoffrey Good resided in East Africa, absorbing various local art and rituals. He believes the vast cultural differences ignited creativity early in life and shaped his perspective in a positive way. “Distilling their influence into something simple and clear is what excites me,” Good said.

As a young professional, Good served as an apprentice on Madison Avenue and was also involved with various famed fashion houses. It is here that he gained extensive knowledge around the product itself in addition to learning how to properly empathize with consumer needs.

As an experienced designer with an impressive tenure, he has provided in-person and virtual bespoke services for some time now. This allows his bond to go even deeper, and he eloquently carries that notion into his daily life.

Currently in the height of his career, he has worked diligently to maintain his own workshop. His flagship atelier, located in the arts district of Hudson, New York, encompasses the grandeur that the brand emulates. He

has a strong list of private clients, develops commissions for award shows, collaborates with esteemed fashion designers and boasts a number of trusted retail partners.

Signature pieces within his gleaming atelier include Arabesque diamond earrings featuring 194 diamonds set in 18 karat white gold, as well as custom diamond pendants with over six karats (carats). The brand pays tribute to many delicate adornments as well, like bejeweled rings, featuring magnificent sunset hues within the stone.

In addition to offering bespoke services, Geoffrey Good’s atelier represents two vital approaches. His first, The Hex Collection, has a more complex design than the six-sided shape may imply. Its power is in morality, minimalism and architectural awareness. The weight and structure of these fearlessly bold silhouettes reveal inner strength and individuality, making the items feel equally genderless for men, women, or anyone.

The second offering, The Galaxy Collection, takes a universal approach to what we wear on

our skin, highlighting a celestial spirit. Littered with diamonds that mimic a starry night sky, these delicate pieces implicate the vastness of time in a beautifully feminine way. It also represents that love has no bounds, a sentiment that is undeniably eternal.

Reflecting on the exceptional power of restraint places meaning behind such a stark and minimal collection. It not only portrays the ease of less is more, but it gives light to the beauty that can come from holding back and patiently awaiting the right moment. From a customer’s perspective, knowing that a jewelry designer is supporting them through that type of emotional journey sheds light on this unexplainable bond that is formed.

It’s with this creative spirit that Geoffrey Good captures the hearts of those around him. An expression of body and soul, this relationship reminds us of the vast similarities between metals, stones and our spirits. Each one holds nuances and discoveries that make us feel connected to them, and it’s all about how we harness the extraordinary bond that brings meaning to our experience.

Geoffreygood.com

The Rise of GALLERY CAR

Homes

Where to park your 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO.

BY SIMON ROBERTS

What is rare, beautiful, costs the same as the GDP of a small pacific island nation (Tuvalu to be exact), and fits in your living room? As it turns out, a 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO is all those things and if you have the right architect, will fit in your living room like all the other fine pieces of design you currently own. In the realm of luxury real estate, a new trend is revving up excitement (shameful pun) and redefining the concept of collector living. Welcome

to the era of “carchitecture”, or car gallery homes, where automotive enthusiasts and affluent homeowners merge their passions for design and high-performance vehicles. These extraordinary residences seamlessly integrate state-of-the-art garages with architectural elegance, creating immersive environments that celebrate the artistry of automobiles while offering unparalleled luxury living spaces. Filled with Nurburg Ring record holding supercars to sexy classics, car gallery homes are driving a small, but growing revolution

in residential architecture, captivating enthusiasts and collectors alike.

The cars that we are talking about are in some very rarified air. These are single digit production number sports cars, one off racecars, and cars so rare and expensive that replacement parts for them do not exist. These are not Dan Tanna’s woeful 1957 Ford Thunderbird which he parked in his living room in the 1980’s TV show VEGA$. Let’s forget about the fact that his 20-year-old Ford would have leaked more asphyxiating fumes than Iraq. More to the point, Robert Urich’s Ford was neither rare, beautiful nor expensive. To justify the expense of this kind of design, and integrated technology necessitates the kind of cars that are bought by unnamed buyers in private auctions.

The origins of the car gallery home are not easily defined. Architects like Le Corbusier, Frank Lloyd Wright, and Mies van der Rohe all saw automotive design as part of the experience that influenced their architecture beginning in the 30’s with the rise of the automobile industry. Frank Lloyd Wright may not have parked his 1949 Crosley Super Sport in the foyer, but he

did design residences that featured beautiful spaces for cars. Wright owned 86 vehicles in his life, and even had a shot at designing one in 1958 (although the words gopping, vindictive, and confusing come to mind when you see the design). Thankfully Mr. Wright stuck to his day job. In the late 20th century, affluent collectors sought innovative ways to showcase their prized possessions. What began as a niche phenomenon has evolved into a fullfledged architectural movement, driven by a convergence of technological advancements, design innovation, and a growing demand for bespoke luxury residences.

At the heart of the car gallery home is the desire to seamlessly integrate automotive passion with everyday living. These residences offer more than just a place to park vehicles; they serve as immersive environments where automobiles are elevated to the status of art. From climate-controlled display areas to custom lighting and integrated audiovisual systems, every aspect of the car gallery home is meticulously designed to accentuate the beauty and performance of the vehicles within.

What sets car gallery homes apart from traditional luxury estates is their emphasis on automotive-centric design and functionality. At the core of these residences is the car gallery itself, a spacious showcase area that serves as the focal point of the home. Here, vehicles take center stage, displayed like works of art in a museum, surrounded by glass walls, polished concrete floors, and minimalist aesthetics that highlight their beauty and craftsmanship.

Beyond the gallery space, car gallery homes offer a wealth of amenities and features designed to cater to the needs and desires of automotive enthusiasts. This includes expansive garages equipped with state-ofthe-art lifts, detailing stations, and climate control systems to preserve the integrity of the vehicles. Some residences even boast private racetracks, car elevators, and dedicated service bays, allowing homeowners to indulge their passion for driving and maintenance in ultimate luxury and privacy.

Central to the allure of car gallery homes is the seamless integration of luxury and technology, creating residences that are as innovative as they are opulent. Smart home automation systems allow homeowners to control every aspect of their living environment, from lighting and temperature to security and entertainment, with the touch of a button or voice command.

In the realm of automotive technology, car gallery homes are at the forefront of innovation, offering cutting-edge features such as automated parking systems, electric vehicle charging stations, and integrated vehicle management platforms. These advancements not only enhance the convenience and functionality of the residence but also elevate the overall experience of owning and interacting with high-performance vehicles.

For automotive enthusiasts and collectors, the appeal of car gallery homes lies in their ability to seamlessly integrate passion with lifestyle, offering a sanctuary where cars are not just possessions but extensions of personal identity and expression. These residences provide a platform for showcasing prized collections, connecting with like-minded automotive enthusiasts, and indulging in the thrill of driving and exploration.

Beyond the automotive realm, car gallery homes offer a luxurious retreat from the hustle and bustle of urban life, with spacious living areas, expansive outdoor spaces, and panoramic views that invite relaxation and rejuvenation. Whether hosting intimate gatherings or grand soirées (as one does), homeowners can entertain guests in style, surrounded by the beauty and sophistication of their automotive sanctuary.

As the demand for bespoke luxury experiences continues to grow, the future of residential carchitecture is poised to grow with the demand. Car gallery homes represent a bold vision for the future of luxury living, where

passion, design, and technology converge to create immersive environments that celebrate the artistry and excitement of automobiles.

As more discerning homeowners seek out unique and personalized spaces that reflect their interests and aspirations, the market for car gallery homes is expected to expand, offering new opportunities for architects, designers, and developers to push the boundaries of creativity and luxury. Whether it’s a sleek modern masterpiece or a timeless architectural gem, car gallery homes are driving a revolution in residential design, redefining the concept of luxury living for generations to come.

AT FIRST SIGHT Love

Get to Grips with What Exactly Makes Aston Martin’s DB12 so Irresistible.

BY MATT CHAPPELL

Most exotic cars turn heads, but not all foster the same reaction. Gawping petrolheads aside, the average layman on the street, at the junction and in the traffic has already made their mind up about you. It’s not always entirely positive. But, universally, in the Aston Martin DB12 you’re almost certainly a gentleman. A driver with taste, manners and understated wealth. You are welcomed. Smiled at. Ushered into heavy traffic without hesitation. For Aston Martin’s latest creation isn’t merely a DB11 facelift, it’s an eye-catching statement of intent nobody can resist. A statement it calls the ‘Super Tourer’...

The DB12 is now more aggressive than its predecessor, sportier and clearly ready to throw you around. In the rear view mirror, its huge front grille oozes a bruising confidence but, in reality, the super GT is imposing from every angle. Yet it’s also suave, sleek and sophisticated. Sweeping lines draw your eye up its enormous hood and across seductive curves and delicately balanced haunches that slope away towards the rear. It causes the kind of involuntary stare usually reserved for real people; nevertheless those that drive the DB12 will come to realize it’s probably got more personality.

Don’t be fooled by its elegant looks. Underneath that massive hood lies a thumping 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8. Though it comes from MercedesAMG, Aston Martin has had its hands all over it – tweaked compression ratios, modified cam profiles and, naturally, larger turbochargers among a host of modifications. The result is potent; 680PS, 800Nm of torque and 0-62mph in only 3.6 seconds. It’ll deliver ‘instant power for immediate high speeds’, say Aston Martin, and we can certainly vouch for that. The DB12

will throw your head back in a nanosecond, and accelerate with the same ferocity for what might seem an eternity, all the way up to 202mph (if you’re brave enough).

Despite the loud V12 no longer being an option, the V8 in the DB12 still produces that smileinducing, burbling purr we’re all accustomed to in an Aston Martin. Granted, it’s a bit quieter –but that won’t matter when the road opens up. The acceleration is savage. Brutal. Unforgiving. It keeps going and going and going. And the engine note that goes with it is just as indulgent, popping and cracking down through the gears. A 7% increase in torsional rigidity has given the car tighter control and a 140% increase in stiffness between the shocks a more direct and precise driving dynamic. Through corners, the DB12 is pointed, connected and sharp; you feel as if the road is glued to the tires, belying the reality of how heavy this GT actually is.

An automatic ZF 8-speed transmission pairs up with an electronic rear differential, the

first DB to have it, that will lay down power individually into each wheel according to your drive set-up. The transmission has been built to give shorter gear changes, particularly mid-range, for acceleration and speed all the way through. Yet the mass of the car will also comfortably swallow miles of grand touring. You might assume rough city roads would present a bit more of a problem, but the DB12’s ‘comfort’ setting is delivered by a chassis and suspension that truly can handle it all.

Inside, the cabin has been given a new look too. The 10.25-inch screen is now baked into the dash instead of sticking up over the top. It’s touchscreen too, at last, and packed with tech befitting of its luxury status. Heavy, knurled dials surround a start button encased in metal that smoothly twists to switch drive modes. A 1170w Bowers & Wilkins sound system immerses you in recording studio sound, amped from 15 speakers that bring the stadium to you. In the front seats, you’re enveloped in craftsmanship, cocooned into a plush interior

clad in hand-stitched leather. You can’t help but feel special. It produces the kind of leather scent that follows you around, long after parking up –a luxurious giveaway that tells those around you you’re driving an Aston Martin.

We’re starting to see Aston Martin’s reliance on Mercedes loosened, with an infotainment system completely designed in-house – voice control joins for the first time, along with appcontrolled connectivity meaning you can update the car from the palm of your hand. It’s nothing new among the wider industry, but it’s the first of its kind in 110 years for Aston Martin.

The DB12 is more than a drive; it’s an experience. Soulful yet subtle, charming yet ruthless. It is a hedonistic example of supercar ownership for all the right reasons, gently concealed behind beauty and artisan craft. And when a car like this rolls downtown, past shops, across junctions, through traffic and the world simply smiles, you know that it’s a supercar done right. And one that nobody can ignore.

PHINISI PARADISE in

Set Sail in Luxury to Explore the Ancient Archipelago of Raja Ampat.

BY FELICITY CARTER

Exploring the Indonesian archipelago of Raja Ampat by setting sail with Prana by Atzaró is certainly a special trip. Kingly by name, and kingly by nature, Raja Ampat (which translates to the “Four Kings”) is located off the northwest tip of Bird’s Head Peninsula in West Papua. It is known for its untouched natural beauty, and with its 1,500 islands, cays and shoals, it is one of the most remote destinations on the planet. There is no infrastructure, including airports, roads or hotels. Instead, expect white sand beaches, turquoise waters and an abundance of wildlife. It’s a haven for divers, too, thanks to the thriving coral reefs rich with colorful and varied marine life. While on land, there are ancient rock paintings on Misool Island to be seen and hiking to be done through tropical rivers that lead to secret serene spots. Or look up at the sky above Waigeo Island to see the crimson birds of paradise.

Being only accessible by boat makes the location even more extraordinary, and warrants a special vessel to match, cue Prana by Atzaró. On the world’s biggest and most luxurious phinisi yacht, you’ll sail in style. At just over 55 meters in length and 11 meters wide, Prana by Atzaró has been handcrafted in the style of a traditional Indonesian phinisi, a sailboat with two masts, built entirely of ironwood and beautiful, slick, teak using customary methods.

Prana by Atzaró has fostered a strong reputation for offering the world’s most lavish charter since it first set sail in 2018, and the service is second to none—on Prana the staffto-guest ratio is 1:1. This has attracted the most discerning of clientele, ranging from A-listers to discreet high-net-worth individuals who seek adventure and solitude. After all, here, privacy is the ultimate luxury.

Having been founded by the five-star hospitality brand, Atzaró Group, Prana is also where a

luxury yacht meets a 5-star hotel. The crew of 18 includes a cruise director, dive instructor, chefs, stewards and expert therapists for treatments, who are all on hand to deliver an impeccable experience. With fine dining, unlimited water sports, onboard spa treatments, world-class diving and heritage sites, a trip aboard Prana by Atzaró is one of a lifetime.

On board there is grandeur aplenty in the vintage-inspired and ultra-sumptuous interiors that are reminiscent of bygone glamour, sleeping up to 18 guests in nine lavish and spacious suites. Each ensuite cabin offers huge deep beds, rain showers, air conditioning and nautical design elements in smooth, solid teak wood, along with muted palettes and soft textures that emit an air of quiet luxury.

Being the world’s biggest phinisi yacht, there is plenty of room to relax and take in the views of the cerulean sea with Prana’s four spacious decks. They include a sundeck with king-size daybeds,

a top yoga deck that’s ideal for your morning zen fix that doubles as an open-air cinema or an outdoor living room, while Prana’s main deck has both indoor and outdoor living spaces.

The hotel-type amenities continue with daily personal laundry and turn-down service, and for further relaxation, there is a spa treatment room and two masseuses on board at all times. The spa menu, designed by Anne Semonin, features body and beauty treatments from facials to scrubs and massages that’ll banish the jet lag.

From the spa menu to the food menu, Prana is also famous for its culinary delights, and this is where Chef Teguh and Chef Assistant Candra really come into their own, cooking up the most delicious Asian fusion and Western dishes that use seasonal, organic and locally sourced produce, ensuring all tastebuds are catered to. Breakfast is served family-style and features fresh fruit platters and pastries, and additional dishes, such as French toast or a traditional Asian breakfast menu with Nasi Goreng (classic Indonesian fried rice), among others, are available from the a la carte menu. Lunch may be ceviche, grilled meat, fresh fish and salads, again served family style. Dinner calls for yellowfin tuna risotto, or their famous BBQ served on the beach under parasols for a unique dinner to remember. It’s also worth noting that Prana can cater for celebrations onboard—just inform Prana on the Charter Preference List.

Michael Wronski, the proficient Cruise Director, will discuss your daily menu options available for the following day, along with the itinerary to guarantee the smooth running of your trip. For those seeking adventure and exploration, the Prana team tailors the itinerary to specific requests, and having a wealth of knowledge of the area, they can offer hyper-personalized, unforgettable experiences.

Learn to scuba dive with Michael and Roy, the activities and diving managers, or snorkel and take in the beautiful and highly renowned waters that are bursting with species of vibrant coral (there are over 600 species in Raja Ampat with more than 40 being native to this region), plus 600 species of fish. Dive the Mioskon reef where you’ll see yellow snappers, batfish and moray eels, along with the occasional white or black tip reef sharks. Prana also stops by the world-renowned dive and snorkel sites of Melissa’s Garden, Batu Rufus and My Reef. If you are lucky, you may spot even more wildlife. It’s known that at least 16 species of whales

and dolphins feed in these waters. Look out on the Dampier Strait to Waigeo for your best chances of sightings.

Water sports include sea kayaking—an ideal way to explore the mangroves of Arborek Island— and paddleboard in the lagoons of Piaynemo. Thrill-seekers can try wakeboarding and waterskiing, and for anglers, fishing equipment is also supplied along with towable floats.

For those who like a side of history with their adventure, Prana sails “The Passage,” a saltwater river that runs between Gam and Waigeo, that was originally described by the famous British naturalist, Alfred Russel Wallace in his book The Malay Archipelago in 1869. It’s where the jungle meets the sea as rapid tides flow through this thin channel, providing an exhilarating snorkel experience for those brave enough.

A once-in-a-lifestyle sailing experience, cruising aboard Prana by Atzaró offers all the romance and magic of a far-flung destination that’s akin to a maritime voyage, with exploration and adventure aplenty, discovering untouched paradises. Of course, though, guests upon Prana travel in utmost luxury, comfort, and style with unparalleled service, spectacular diving and fine dining, all coming together in a remarkable, memory-making, bucket-list trip that’s truly hard to beat.

GETTING THERE

Raja Ampat may be remote, but getting there isn’t as tricky as you’d expect. Fly Business Class with Qatar Airways, and you’ll have access to world-class lounges at Qatar’s Hamad International Airport, which has just been ranked “Best Airport in the World 2024” by Skytrax. This includes Qatar Airways’ newest Al Mourjan Business Lounge—The Garden. While on board, make use of the beds to ensure you’re well-rested ahead of your adventure.

Stop off at Jakarta for a night (we stayed at The Orient Jakarta), and from there fly with Garuda Indonesian on to Domine Eduard Osok Airport, Sotong. Here you’ll be met by the Prana crew and whisked directly to the harbour (20 minutes by car), then it’s all aboard the phinisi.

SAILING SEASONS

Prana by Atzaró sails all year, following the calm seas, so destinations are seasonal. The yacht sails Komodo National Park from May to October, the Spice Islands in November and May and Raja Ampat from December to April. Pranabyatzaro.com

The Age of Social

AFFLUENCE

Inside Influential, Prestige Private Clubs.

BY SI SI PENALOZA

In an increasingly detached digital world, a sense of common ground has never felt more profound. Members clubs succeed as a prime example of the affinity economy and its lingering place in American life. Whether under the guise of golf, yachting, skiing, or equestrian, members-only clubs give us a meaningful “third place” to invest in our social capital. Bonus points for convivial clubhouses and enviable lifestyles.

Private clubs remain a sharp validation of the social sanctuaries they provide. Suddenly, an inner circle—and an inner sanctum—became most vital and desirable. One highly coveted manifestation of this is Moonlight Basin, a membership club and community that offers the rare symmetry of rugged Montana, robust social conviviality, and unsurpassed sporting pursuits from world-class skiing and golf to a

wide variety of all-season outdoor activities. Moonlight Basin recalls life in the authentic mountain west, a place where time stands still and soulful adventure is part of daily life.

Moonlight Basin has emerged as a gold standard bolt-hole for the wealthy. This 8,000-acre private members ski and golf enclave adjacent to Big Sky Resort is bordered on three sides by protected lands. The newest club amenity, LakeLodge, includes 3-Forks Restaurant and Bar, retail shop, fitness center, indoor 3-point basketball court, indoor climbing wall, golf simulator, ski and boot storage, outdoor pool and two hot tubs. Tee off at The Reserve, the beloved 18-hole Jack Nicklaus-signature golf course and clubhouse. The Signature Membership level includes reciprocal access to Spanish Peaks Mountain Club’s legendary 18-hole Tom Weiskopf golf course, where you could run into members Tom Brady, or Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel.

At the nation’s most storied links, Augusta National Golf Club, old school members such as Warren Buffett and Bill Gates have rubbed shoulders with Washington power brokers for decades. That was then, what’s the most coveted tee time invite in 2024? Michael Jordan’s new private golf club opened under a shroud of mystique in 2019 in Hobe Sound,

adjacent to Jordan’s Florida home. Indeed, the stories around the secretive Grove XXIII have already become the stuff of legend—think the biggest names in entertainment and sport. Part of the growing enigma is that Jordan swears his members to secrecy. The one perk that guests can’t help posting to social? Video clips of the club’s drone delivery service dropping cold beer

and nibbles to players mid-round have surfaced online, hello Air Jordan!

While members may be drawn to the enviable Scottish-style links at The Abaco Club, they double down for the destination, after every family member and friend swoons for the views at first sight. While the club’s 18-holes remains the centerpiece amenity, the property sits on one of the most stunning locations in the entire Bahamian archipelago, owing to the exclusive, heart-shaped Winding Bay Beach, with its average water temperature of 79°F and powder-soft white sand. When it comes to captains of industry mingling over magnums of Moet and Maseratis, The Abaco Club offers members meaningful events that add value to the esteemed club’s social fabric. The décor pays homage to a noteworthy period of the island’s history from the late 1700s to the 1970s with its Neo-British Colonial style.

New developments like The Cays beachfront villas lead the way forward through purposeful design, while the Abaco leadership team innovates signature member experiences. The Founder’s Room is one of the most in

demand perks, with direct access to a private garden and accommodating up to 14 people for intimate gatherings. There’s an endless array of appealing ways to make the most of belonging: feasting at The Abaco Club’s four locally sourced dining venues, spa and fitness center, tennis, pickleball and basketball courts, water sports, fishing and boating excursions. Little wonder members are so passionate about their beloved club, where the pace of daily life slows down, and the golf cart is the preferred mode of transport. Perks extend beyond its shores; members receive reciprocal privileges at all of Southworth Development’s awardwinning private club communities with each location offering its own distinct personality, amenities, golf course and accommodations. The Abaco Club members also gain access to The Executive Golfer Collection of more than 100 private clubs throughout the U.S. Memberships start at 150K, and there’s currently a waitlist.

As Soho House goes truly global with Tel Aviv and Canouan locations, The Battery Club doubles down on the Bay Area, developing an outpost in Oakland with its acquisition of the former Bellevue Club’s six-story Lake Merritt clubhouse. Founded in 2012, The Battery offers diverse programming like penthouse sound baths, wine tastings, and countrythemed dance nights. Designed by renowned interior designer Ken Fulk and located within a 58,000-square-foot former marble factory in the Financial District, the Battery boasts four bars, a restaurant, wine cellar, library, roof garden, wellness gym, and a spa. There are also 14 guest rooms, including a penthouse with panoramic views of the Bay Bridge. Silicon Valley elites birth new businesses here; this is the advantage of private clubs in this era, they spark avenues to meet your next co-founder, investor, or

advisory board ace. This is the enterprise of making business pleasurable; further afield, Battery co-founders have established an alliance which grants members access to comparable clubs in 14 countries.

The most marvelous new amenity at The Battery? The world’s largest cheese cart lives here. Resident cheese curator Brandon Hicks guides diners through a rotating collection of 100 on any given night, pairing fromages and wines like a conversation between close confidantes. The theatrics of his presentation is a journey in itself, as every cheese on the cart evokes a story. Tasting the rare Vacherin Mont d’Or is euphoric, while the Sbrinz paired with honeycomb is ethereal. The Basque-style Vermont Shepherd between sips of tempranillo is a revelation. The Battery Club, with its eclectic blend of cultural events

and culinary delights, epitomizes the spirit of innovation that defines the Bay Area ethos.

The timeless allure of members clubs stands as a testament to the enduring importance of genuine human connection. These exclusive enclaves, whether nestled in the rugged tranquility of Montana or gracing the sun-kissed shores of the Bahamas, serve as sanctuaries for those seeking respite from the frenetic pace of modern life. Each club offers its members a blend of luxury, camaraderie, and bespoke experiences that transcend the ordinary. The bonds forged within these hallowed grounds endure far beyond the fairways and clubhouses. In an era where genuine connections are increasingly elusive, private clubs offer a rare opportunity to escape the noise of the world and savor the simple pleasures of friendship, fine dining, and shared conviviality.

Big splashes. Big sips. Big sunsets. Relax in our new, private pool-side cabanas overlooking Table Rock Lake, featuring full-service amenities and the best hospitality in the Ozarks. Make 2024 your biggest and best summer ever at Big Cedar Lodge.

FORM MEETS FUNCTION

The Luxury Automotive Brands Making Waves with Things that Aren’t, Well, Cars.

BY MATT CHAPPELL

Enter a world of opulence and beauty, where luxury automotive brands turn their discerning eye from four wheels to favored possessions. Here, we examine the luxury lifestyle masterpieces of the motoring world’s finest design teams—from Aston Martin to Mercedes-AMG, sports car soundbars to handcrafted cellarettes. It is where beauty and perfection collide, away from the road and into the destination.

MERCEDES BENZ STYLE

AMG GT², MAYBACH EYEWEAR, VIP AIRCRAFT CABINS

The German manufacturer has taken the same unflinching approach to its design as it has its motoring, which spans pillowy comfort all the way through to buttock-clenching adrenaline. If you want all of that in a boat, you’re in luck— the “Silver Arrows of the Sea” is a collaboration between Mercedes-Benz Style and worldrenowned marine architects. The 14m Arrow 460 Granturismo has 906hp, luxurious curves and flowing lines and windows that tint in the sun. Though it has space for 10, it might not be your scene with a young family in tow but fear not—Mercedes also makes a baby stroller. The limited-edition AMG GT² boasts “sportiness and maximum ride comfort,” and is made in collaboration with Hartan. It sports swiveling wheels, cross-spoke wheels, the AMG pattern in “hyper-blue,” even a handbrake. For parents unwilling to release their grip on motorsport, this is a pushchair that turns heads. But the design department at Mercedes-Benz has also had its hands on eyewear, creating a bespoke collection under the MAYBACH umbrella including shades that feature turquoisemarbled, natural horn and 22-carat gold titanium. And, of course, Mercedes-Benz has also taken on all manners of luxury throughout its past, from VIP aircraft cabins to even private helicopter design.

HOUSE OF ROLLS - ROYCE ROLLS - ROYCE CELLARETTE

Its opulent motor cars are treasured collectables, and the luxury design products the British manufacturer creates are no different. The brand’s artisanal design collective can turn its hand to anything, elevating beyond the ordinary. Take the Rolls-Royce Cellarette, an indulgent whisky and cigar chest created for the most glorious of gatherings. Crafted with the most exclusive materials, its polished aluminum and Rolls-Royce Havan leather-clad body mechanically opens to reveal two hand-blown lowball glasses finished with the “RR” monogram, which rotate outwards as it does so. Surrounded by Armagnac leather inside, soft lighting sets the mood—and a leatherlined bottle holder reveals itself in unison, while on the other side a humidor offers cigars protected in Spanish Cedarwood and monitored by its in-built hygrometer. The Cellarette’s accompanying accessories are as intricately made as the main event, with a cigar cutter and lighter crafted by S.T. Dupont, Paris. Of course, the British automaker turns its hand to far more as well, like its Kinetic Luggage Collection—based on the techniques of a top London Head Butler—and its Escapism Luggage Collection, designed for the “wandering spirit” with bespoke leather and canvas.

ASTON MARTIN

ASTON MARTIN RESIDENCES, ASTON MARTIN .1R, AM37 SPEEDBOAT

You’ve long known Aston Martin for its suave, leather-clad supercars, unleashing devastating horsepower in a way only a refined Aston Martin can. Using this charming sex appeal, its design team has approached real estate, speedboats and road bikes. New for 2024, are the Aston Martin Residences in Miami, an ultra-luxury, 66-story architectural masterpiece home to 391 condos on Miami Waterfront. The sail-shaped building has been immaculately created with the same Aston Martin design philosophy. Bespoke Aston Martin handles, number plinths and kestrel tan leather line each floor, and a “Sky Amenities” common area features a striking glass staircase, art gallery, two movie theaters, virtual golf sim, spa and two-floor gym. The British marque has also been at work on the Aston Martin .1R, a 3D-printed titanium and carbon fiber road bike made bespoke for every rider using the same colors and materials on offer for its highperformance sports cars. And, who could ever forget, the AM37—a luxury powerboat with all the understated elegance and ferocious power of an Aston Martin on water.

PORSCHE DESIGN

PORSCHE HEAD 8 SERIES RALLY SKIS, 911 SOUNDBAR 2.0, PORSCHE EBIKE SPORT

Think of Porsche, and you think of power, beauty and refined luxury. Porsche Design takes all of this and carefully applies it to the luxury lifestyle products it knows you yearn for. Take its Porsche HEAD 8 Series Rally Skis—allmountain skis that can take it all, based on the Dakar design of the Porsche 953. Fast, stable and fat at tip and tail, they use a World Cup sandwich construction with a solid wood core, strengthened by carbon and Titanal layers. But you can also take Porsche into the study or the living room, with the 911 Soundbar 2.0—made from the original air intake grille on a 911 GT3 Touring. Among a plethora of other luxury goods, for instance its high-end fashion collab with Puma, Porsche Design also makes a high-performance electric mountain bike, with lashings of carbon fiber, Fox Factory suspension and Crankbrothers Carbon wheels, which means you can now take your Porsche off-road. And there’s also the 718 Spyder RS Chronograph watch for those that prefer to wear Porsche on their wrist, inspired by its namesake with Spyder RS embossing on the strap, a carbon dial, lightweight titanium case and a rotor styled like a Spyder RS wheel.

LAMBORGHINI

AUTOMOBILI LAMBORGHINI 60°, STRADA X AUTOMOBILI LAMBORGHINI BIKE

For the Italian luxury supercar brand’s 60th anniversary, it made the Automobili Lamborghini 60° in collaboration with Montegrappa—a fountain pen that puts Lamborghini in your fingertips. Inspired by super sports cars in the sixties, the pen is handcrafted in an ultra-light hexagonal shape numerically-milled with aerospace aluminum and covered in forged carbon fiber. The automotive maker has also been busy creating its own high-end performance road bikes with 3T carbon components—fast, light and completely Italian. Its Racemax x Automobili Lamborghini gravel bike and Strada x Automobili Lamborghini bike come in a set of striking colors, as any Lambo would. Of course, the heady scent of leather is never far away, and Lamborghini’s set of leather goods ensures you can carry it with you, while its partnership with Master & Dynamic takes Italian supercar luxury and places it all up in your ears with a set of wireless active noise-canceling headphones and earphones. These stylish, lightweight aluminum, Kevlar fiber headphones are made with the best of the best, just like a Lamborghini.

BENTLEY DESIGN COLLABORATIONS

BENTLEY HOME

At Milan Design Week, Bentley unveiled its latest collection of luxury homeware for those that want to take the brand into their living rooms. This year, a first foray into the home office, with a new take on the Bentley Desk. It’s sleek, minimalist design hides two drawers inside the shell, with a “Liquid Amber” finish across the piece. Among the collection is also the modular Loftus Sofa, with flowing lines and floating cushions that seem to sit on thin air, much like the comfort of its motorcars. The Langport Bed is completely customizable, with veneer, black lacquer, fabric or sustainable leather all in play. Smart reading lights sit seamlessly in the headboard, inviting warmth, relaxation and quiet mindfulness. The British automaker has also partnered with Ducatti to deliver the light, richly crafted Ducati Diavel For Bentley, one of only 500 exclusive motorbikes based on the ultra-rare 740 PS W12 Bentley Batur. Then there’s a swath of high-end luggage, eyewear and wireless speaker technology reimagined with the Naim for Bentley Mu-so Special Edition, featuring design elements inspired by Bentley’s highperformance luxury vehicles.

OWN YOUR ADVENTURE

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The SR Series G7 showcases the most significant advancements in flight deck technology with a modern touch interface, new capabilities and enhanced situation awareness. The reimagined, automotive-inspired interior is tailored to fit your lifestyle and provides the ultimate comfort and convenience. Discover more at cirrus.link/G7adventure

Both Worlds Best of

Luxury Resorts That Combine WorldClass Golf with Extraordinary Spa Experiences.

BY MICHAEL CROLEY

Sometimes, when you’re planning a much-needed getaway, you have to make a tough choice. Should you search for a destination that offers the kind of great golf challenges you crave? Or should you focus on finding a resort that offers the full menu of spa experiences you need to enhance your wellbeing and peace of mind? Luckily, you don’t have to make that choice. Here are four luxury resorts to consider. They’re located in destinations as diverse as Mexico, California, Pennsylvania and Georgia—and each one offers the best of both worlds, great golf and an amazing spa.

PHOTO BY EVAN SCHILLER

NEMACOLIN WOODLANDS RESORT FARMINGTON, PENNSYLVANIA

About an hour south of Pittsburgh, nestled in the Alleghany Mountains, is one of the great resorts in America. Featuring two fantastic golf courses—Mystic Rock and Shepherd’s Rock— Nemacolin is a suite of luxurious standards and surprises. The golf was the initial star of the resort with Mystic Rock, a Pete Dye-design hosting the PGA Tour’s 84 Lumber Classic in the mid-aughts for three years. Shepherd’s Rock opened in 2017 and both courses take advantage of the mountainous terrain. The more challenging shots on each course require uphill approaches and then offer downhill tee shots that sail high over the mountains and take advantage of long-range views.

The resort recently completed an extensive transformation that included upgrades to the 56 suites at The Grand Lodge and a redesign of the grand lobby featuring a stunning split staircase. Upgraded dining options include the opening of the highly anticipated Fawn & Fable, offering steakhouse fare prepared with locallysourced ingredients and the resort’s famed Lautrec, which serves a sumptuous six-course tasting menu.

The Woodlands Spa is a blissful affair, featuring a variety of wellness offerings including massages, skin and body treatments and signature therapies such as the Five Elements Journey. The spa also offers a seasonal Golf Wellness Package designed to help players achieve optimum improvement. The resort’s Holistic Healing Center promises an innovative, personalized approach to life balance and integrated wellness. Nemacolin.com

SENSEI PORCUPINE CREEK

RANCHO MIRAGE, CALIFORNIA

Set within the foothills of the Santa Rosa Mountains near Palm Springs, California, Sensei Porcupine Creek is a desert oasis where wellbeing has been prioritized and it also includes an outstanding golf course. The resort is a former private estate and therefore its golf course sits on a tidy 75 acres and isn’t a sprawling affair. Unlike other resorts that try to maximize time and golfers on the course to increase revenue, at Sensei the tee times are well-spaced, so golfers never feel rushed. And, unlike other resorts, guests may play as singles, using golfing as a solitary chance to meditate and take in their natural surroundings. This is a reflection of how the resort prioritizes its guests’ well-being and seeks to help them find their center.

Another indication of this focus is the opportunity for guests to have one-on-one sessions in yoga, fitness, meditation and nutrition while visiting the resort. In some instances, they can even add biomarkers to their therapy to help them understand their heart rate variability (HRV) and find their VO2 Max, a measure of their lungs’ efficiency. Visitors to the spa can choose from a menu of relaxing massages, customized bodywork and rejuvenating facials. Sensei’s specialized treatments are novel and also worth trying, including thermal body mapping where a proprietary technology points out asymmetries and tight muscles and areas of pain. The resort’s lagoon-style pool offers guests an idyllic setting to escape the desert heat surrounded by the beautifully designed landscape. Sensei.com/ retreats/porcupine-creek/

MONTANA HAS A SWEET SPOT

COSTA PALMAS GOLF CLUB

EAST CAPE, LOS CABOS, MEXICO

The Costa Palmas Golf Club showcases a world-class championship golf course and offers desert, marina and ocean views amid dunescapes and fairways that unravel down hillsides. The course takes full advantage of incorporating the natural beauty of Baja’s East Cape and offers a pleasant, walkable 18-hole links-style coastal course. One of the best things about the course is that it offers golfers a chance to play a traditional 18 holes or to break them into shorter six-hole loops for faster play or if the ocean is calling. Costa Palmas is attached to the Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos at Costa Palmas, where its spa and private residences are also located. (An Aman resort and residences is currently under construction.)

For those who want a little more out of their spa experience, two deluxe spa suites, Agua Serena and Agua Dorada, offer the ultimate spa day with a loved one. Each spa suite includes an expansive indoor treatment room, outdoor relaxation space and private plunge pool. Before embarking on the spa, guests can set up appointments with the adventure team for an opportunity to commune with nature. Sailing, snorkeling and hiking are all there for their pleasure. For dining, Michelin-Starred Chef Ludo Lefebvre debuted Delphine this year, featuring laid-back but refined French cuisine. And Nancy Silverton’s Mozza Baja offers a Mexican East Cape take on her Italian fare. Costa Palmas also boasts Los Cabos’ only superyacht marina as well as luxury private villas, and for those seeking nightlife, there’s Chiki, a seductively psychedelic private nightclub designed by Martin Brudnizki Design Studio. Costapalmas.com

CLOUDLAND AT MCLEMORE RESORT

RISING FAWN, GEORGIA

Just outside Chattanooga, Tennessee, an oasis has been built in the sky. McLemore looms large on a plateau among the Smoky Mountains and features two golf courses in the air. The resort’s newest course, The Keep, weaves atop the mountain forest with gentle, flat land and 1.5 miles of clifftop edge, offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountain range. Another feature of the property is the five streams that converge into a single source, creating waterfalls along the way. Its older brother, the Highlands Course, offers similar mountain terrain, pushing up to cliffs’ edges on several holes, creating heart-pumping excitement for golfers tackling the course and featuring one of the most distinctive finishing holes in the Southeast.

And while golf is a key driver to the resort, the opening of the hotel makes a definite statement that their clientele extends beyond avid golfers. Its spa, named Selah, provides guests with an indoor retreat, as well. It offers a full menu of spa experiences, including massages, facials and body treatments. One example is the hydrotherapy lounge that offers thermotherapy, a three-step relaxation ritual that alternates between hot and cold temperatures followed by a period of rest. The treatment is designed to stimulate circulation, relieve pain, decrease stress and rejuvenate the body.

Sitting at 2,300 feet above sea level, McLemore is ready to establish itself as one of the more preeminent and unique luxury destinations in the South. Themclemore.com

Coastal CHARISMA

Two Oceanfront Courses and a Charming, Craftsman-style Lodge Make Torrey Pines a Winning Choice for Golfers.

BY TOBY THOMPSON

One of the most anticipated stops on the PGA Tour each season is Torrey Pines, set atop the cliffs of La Jolla, California and overlooking the Pacific. Both the North Course and South Course are used in the early rounds of the tournament and provide two different playing settings—and challenges. The South Course gets more love as it has hosted the U.S. Open multiple times, including Tiger Woods’ 2008 legendary victory and Jon Rahm’s 2021 win. It is a true championship course, meaning it’s long and often plays longer in the heavy marine air. The elevated greens set the stage for difficult chips and are also protected by deep bunkers. For an easier—and, some argue, more scenic walk—opt for the North Course, which is shorter and takes better advantage of its coastal views. The 2018 renovation increased the size of the bunkers (making them easier to hit) and added a drivable par-4 to push the fun factor.

Golfers flock to play where the pros play, but skipping The Lodge at Torrey Pines would be a mistake. The craftsman-style hotel is a mixture of Spanish-influenced Southern Californian architecture and Frank Lloyd Wright’s prairie style. Its timeless appeal remains as captivating today as when its exquisite stained-glass doors first welcomed guests over two decades ago. Consistently awarded the prestigious AAA Five Diamond rating, The Lodge is renowned for its unparalleled service, distinctive ambiance and sumptuous accommodations. The Reserve and Palisade suites offer spacious accommodations, private balconies and oversized soaking tubs, along with golf course and botanical garden views. A stay here promises an unforgettable and cherished journey for every traveler, especially those with a passion for golf.

The resort features several dining options, including A.R. Valentien and The Grill. The former is the resort’s signature restaurant and has a rotating seasonal menu with locally sourced ingredients, while The Grill’s slow-cooked, farm-fresh menu has its own custom-built wood-burning rotisserie oven and offers diners panoramic views of the iconic South Course. This summer, the resort will host Playing with Fire, a seasonlong celebration of outdoor grilling headed by the resort’s executive chef and featuring special guest chefs each month. Each Playing with Fire event will feature a delicious display of wood-fired dishes, seasonal sides and local brews for guests to enjoy alongside views of the iconic golf courses.

The Spa at Torrey Pines takes its cues from the surrounding natural setting atop the Pacific Ocean and is within walking distance of the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. The Coastal Aroma Soak and Massage stands out among the spa’s many offerings. Guests are submerged in a relaxing soak of Dead Sea salts and organic essential oils of lemon, clove, mandarin and basil and then receive a 50-minute personalized massage. There is also a detoxifying sea leaf wrap that uses organic seaweed leaves to scrub and wrap the guest’s body. After a gentle exfoliation, the body is wrapped in handharvested seaweed leaves and allowed to absorb all of the potent nutrients to hydrate and soften the skin.

With its winning combination of challenging oceanfront courses, an elegant yet comfortable California Craftsmanstyle lodge, excellent farm-to-table cuisine and a relaxing spa, Torrey Pines definitely belongs on every golfer’s “must play” list. Lodgetorreypines.com

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SPIRIT OMITABLE

Michael Chandler’s Ascent from Humble Roots to MMA Eminence.

BY SIMON ROBERTS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID BEAN // STYLING BY KRISTA ROSER

In the tumultuous arena of Mixed Martial Arts, where the most formidable warriors are forged in the crucible of combat, some individuals forge their own inimitable path. At 38 years of age, Michael Chandler’s odyssey from modest beginnings to becoming a UFC powerhouse is a narrative of unwavering determination, purposeful decisions and an unyielding refusal to acquiesce to the limitations imposed by others. Yet in stark contrast to some of his adversaries, he has achieved his success despite a distinct absence of controversy, arrogance and media theatrics.

Hailing from High Ridge, Missouri, a quaint town nestled near the Illinois border, Chandler describes his hometown as “more than a onehorse town, yet not quite a thriving metropolis. I’m a small guy, from a small town, who was taught to do small things,” Chandler reminisces, recounting the manner in which his modest upbringing endeavored to dissuade grand aspirations and lofty dreams. Fortuitously for the MMA world and its ardent devotees, Chandler and his parents harbored grander ambitions. Defying small town constraints would define the way forward for Chandler.

Chandler’s ascension to the pinnacle of MMA can be traced back to his collegiate wrestling days. Despite being a formidable high school wrestler, Chandler did not receive scholarship offers from any Division 1 college wrestling programs. While he garnered offers from Division 2 and NAIA institutions, Chandler opted to forgo those opportunities, instead attempting to secure a walk-on position at the University of Missouri.

Chandler astutely recognized that he would be better served by the caliber of coaching and competition at Division 1 schools. With the unwavering support of his father, Mike, and mother, Betty, Chandler not only secured a place on the team but went on to become a three-time NCAA AllAmerican. Chandler fondly recounts, “My parents were always willing to support us, no matter what sacrifices they had to make, whether it was taking on additional work or forsaking their own desires to ensure we had the opportunity to pursue ours.” As Chandler characterizes his childhood, “We didn’t have an abundance of material possessions, but we were never lacking.” He also credits his coach at the University of Missouri for instilling in him the desire to be not merely the best wrestler he could be but also the best student, friend, leader and person he could become. This dedication to being more than just a student athlete, but a well-rounded individual, has served Chandler well throughout his life.

Chandler etched his mark in the MMA landscape with Bellator MMA, where he swiftly emerged as one of its brightest luminaries. In 2011, Chandler’s breakthrough moment arrived when he captured the Bellator Lightweight Championship in a riveting clash, culminating in the submission of Eddie Alvarez. This victory not only showcased his formidable skill set but also set the stage for a series of epic battles that would cement his legacy as a Bellator legend. Chandler went on to successfully defend the Lightweight title on two subsequent occasions. Throughout his career, Chandler has been a part of some of the most unforgettable moments in MMA history. The trilogy with Eddie Alvarez, including their epic encounter at Bellator 106, demonstrated

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“My parents were always willing to support us, no matter what sacrifices they had to make, whether it was taking on additional work or forsaking their own desires to ensure we had the opportunity to pursue ours.”

Chandler’s ability to thrive under immense pressure. His reign as Bellator Lightweight Champion was marked by dominant performances and an unyielding will to succeed.

In 2020, Michael Chandler took his talents to the biggest stage in MMA— the UFC. His debut against Dan Hooker at UFC 257 was nothing short of total domination. In a mere two minutes and thirty seconds, Chandler unleashed his explosive striking, delivering a first-round knockout that left fans and fellow fighters in awe. The statement victory catapulted him into the upper echelons of the lightweight division. Chandler’s fighting style is a masterful blend of technical proficiency and raw power that overwhelms opponents with a multifaceted attack. Chandler’s powerful striking, formidable takedowns and relentless pace dismantle opponents both standing and on the mat. His ability to adapt his offense and defense to different opponents and fight scenarios has made him a formidable force in the lightweight division.

Michael Chandler’s impact transcends the boundaries of the octagon. A devoted family man and an outspoken Christian who uses his faith as a lodestar to uplift and inspire others, Chandler not only possesses the mind of a relentless fighter but is also driven by an unstoppable entrepreneurial spirit. Chandler is involved in no less than four health and fitness brands, a prolific business acumen driven by what he refers to as being “blissfully dissatisfied.” He explains that one must be content with their accomplishments while simultaneously harboring the notion that they can achieve more. He is involved in various capacities with Kram Nutrition (which produces what Chandler refers to as a “healthy Uncrustable”), WalkOn Fitness, Training Camp Cut and Speede Fitness.

Chandler not only seeks to promote physical well-being but also encourages occasional hiatuses from physical progression to reflect on one’s achievements. What better way to do so than with a high-quality tequila? According to Chandler, his partnership with Hiatus Tequila was born out of his affinity for tequila and his deep respect for the company’s owner. Chandler speaks in reverent tones regarding this new venture, stating, “Kristopher DeSoto (Owner of Hiatus Tequila) and I are seeking to redefine what a celebrity partnership should look like in the spirit industry. I have invested in Hiatus because of their commitment to crafting tequila the traditional way—with a deep respect for culture, hard work and dedication to authenticity and quality at a superior price point.” The story of Hiatus Tequila would seem to mirror Chandler’s internal characteristics.

Chandler also finds time for his family and friends. Chandler, his wife Brie, and their two sons, Hap and Ace, enjoy traveling to far-flung destinations like Iceland, Greece and the somewhat less exotic Scottsdale, Arizona. Chandler spends time in the desert oasis of Scottsdale playing golf and hosting extended visits for groups of friends and family while on hiatus from his training regimen. The elusive pursuit of perfection in golf resonates with Chandler, as the need to work smarter and be dedicated to improvement feels natural to him. Although, according to Chandler, even the pressure cooker of stepping into the octagon for his first professional fight pales in comparison to the pressure involved in standing on the first tee at his local club with a crowd gathered.

In the unforgiving realm of MMA, Michael Chandler stands tall as a symbol of resilience, skill and unwavering determination. From collegiate wrestling mats to the unforgiving spotlight of the UFC, Chandler’s journey is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. The next chapter in his storied career promises to be just as thrilling as the last, ensuring that the name Michael Chandler will continue to echo through the annals of MMA history. Whether he’s chasing titles, new business opportunities or new experiences for his family, one thing is certain—Michael Chandler’s journey in the octagon and in the boardroom is far from over.

Bonding BEYOND BORDERS

The Luxury Buddymoon Trend Peaks at These Prestige Escapes.

BY SI SI PENALOZA

Hollywood jetsetters and pro athletes alike have made buddymoons a buzzy, rising trend for 2024, a way to emphasize the power of enduring friendships. Here are three next-level, over-thetop options for the most discerning of friend groups. Hangers on need not apply.

ANANTARA RASANANDA KOH PHANGAN VILLAS Thailand

As I traverse the pristine shores of Koh Phangan, where lush rainforests meet crystalline waters, I find myself enveloped in the splendor of Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villas, the only luxury resort in the unspoiled vicinity. Meet the buddymoon venue made for spa and culinary loving hedonists. Nestled amidst the half-moon shaped Thong Nai Pan Noi beach, this oasis beckons those seeking a retreat from the ordinary, a haven where kinship is celebrated in style.

Anantara Rasananda offers a respite from the region’s budget reputation with 64 sumptuous rooms and private villas adorned with deep plunge pools, many overlooking the azure sea. Every morning of my stay, I am greeted by the harmonious fusion of contemporary Thai design—white walls, dark wood and thatched roofs—aesthetic elegance meets untouched wilderness. From the high ceilings to the polished wood floors and traditional Thai fish trap lamps, each element exudes local charm. Private butler service at Anantara Rasananda is

solid—friendly and attentive to any whimsy your buddymoon inspires. Enjoy complimentary yoga with the resort’s in-house master or indulge in pampering spa treatments amidst bungalows perched on rocks rising from the forest floor.

If your group chat is 50 percent chatter on best new restaurants to book your next table, this buddymoon will deliver on culinary delights. The resort offers a feast for the senses with its array of dining options. From all-day dining at Bistro at the Beach, featuring Thai and international dishes with an emphasis on fresh seafood, to the tantalizing flavors of Yukinoya, serving some of the best sushi on the island, every meal is a culinary journey of epic proportions. The true highlight of Anantara Rasananda is creating unforgettable memories with friends through bespoke experiences. From private dinners on the beach under the starlit sky to immersive cooking school sessions in the resort’s spice garden, every moment is an opportunity to celebrate the bonds of friendship. Anantara.com/en

VILLA AVELLANA

Costa Rica

From the moment I set foot upon the meticulously manicured grounds of Villa Avellana, it becomes abundantly clear that this is no ordinary five-star escape. From a buddymoon perspective, this is the latest and greatest venue in Central America. I’m in absolute awe of all the bonding rituals on the menu here—sportfishing trips, massage treatments, afternoons of chocolate making and wine sipping. The beauty of this place is rooted in the hyperlocal details; it’s a designer paradise nestled along the pristine shores of Costa Rica’s captivating coastline.

Born of the visionary dreams of a once barefoot surf aficionado turned luxury hospitality mogul, this majestic retreat epitomizes the pinnacle of refined living amidst the untamed tropics. This whole villa is built on buddymoon vibes all grown up—the founder reveled in hosting surf buddies, kicking back and making memories. Sharing the peninsula with the Beyonce and Jay Z-favored Four Seasons Resort Papagayo and chic Andaz Costa Rica, Villa Avellana is a step up—if privacy is top priority. The 33,000-square-foot Villa Avellana can accommodate friend groups of up to 23 guests for $22,000 a night in low season, offering 10 ensuite bedrooms and a 42-foot luxury yacht on standby. Designed by Sarco Architects, it sits on an ultra-private sandy beach and is staffed

by 20 attentive hospitality pros who orchestrate adrenaline-spiking adventures, couture dining and cultural immersions for guests with ravishing attention to personal interests.

Led by Thomas Freitag, the Swiss Army knife of General Managers, the staff fires in all cylinders. The dashing and sporty Canadianborn GM personally takes guests wildlife watching, trophy fishing or surfing. If you’ve ever wanted to learn how to spearfish, you couldn’t have a better local guide than Freitag. Chef David Moya is the villa’s secret weapon; I marvel at his symphony of sensory delights, as well as how the staff seems to know when I’m dehydrated before I do.

A testament to the enduring allure of the “Rich Coast,” Villa Avellana offers jetsetters a resplendent haven where indulgence knows no bounds. Whether savoring the succulent flavors of Wagyu beef raised on Costa Rican soil or embarking on a sunset cruise with lead concierge Sergio Jean at the helm, buddymooners rest assured that every desire, no matter how extravagant, will be effortlessly fulfilled. This magnificent retreat remains a harmonious extension of the verdant jungle that envelops it, a testament to the property’s unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship. Villaavellana.com

BÜRGENSTOCK RESORT LAKE LUCERNE

Switzerland

For a truly discerning buddymoon for fintech bros and beyond, design your own Cyrus timepiece while staying at the Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne. This exclusive offering includes a two-night stay, a private door-to-door helicopter transfer to the Cyrus Watch workshop in Le Locle, and a personalized watchmaking experience with a Cyrus master craftsman. Celebrate your custom creation with a visit to the heavenly Alpine Spa followed by a dinner and wine pairing. Return to the resort to collect your bespoke timepiece within six months and enjoy a one-night stay. This “Beyond Imagination” experience starts at $28,000.

Bond x Bürgenstock is another offering made for next-level buddymoons. Switzerland is one of the most popular James Bond filming locations and The Bürgenstock Collection has hosted many glamorous scenes on and off camera. In 1964, Sean Connery and the crew shooting Goldfinger spent a month at the Bürgenstock Resort, shooting scenes near Hammetschwand Lift. Bond enthusiasts remember 007’s pursuit of Goldfinger along the spectacular bends of Furka Pass in his Aston Martin DB5. The Bürgenstock’s Hollywood Pool and Bull’s Eye Bar made glamorous film sets.

In celebration of 60 years of 007, The Bürgenstock Collection offers Bond enthusiasts top notch experiences in some of the very locations where iconic scenes were filmed. Think Aston Martin driving experiences, a thrilling Alpine Summit Helicopter Experience, landing on a glacier where your personal chef will conjure up a Swiss raclette served with Martinis, a cabana afternoon at the glamorous Hollywood Pool, picnics on the famed Schilthorn Summit, a visit to the

Omega Watch Museum to revel in the private collection of Bond watches worn over the years, private 007-inspired dining at Bull’s Eye Bar with a menu based on Bond’s favorite dishes, with cigars and, of course, dry martinis. Burgenstockresort.com/en

Fossilized Cave Bear Skull

Species: Ursus uralensis

Age: Pleistocene Epoch

19 inches

TURN YOUR ASSETS INTO INCOME

How Multifamily Real Estate Can Help Protect Your Family Wealth.

BY MICHAEL EPISCOPE, CO - CEO AND CO - FOUNDER, ORIGIN INVESTMENTS

Investing is more than a financial transaction. It’s about enabling you to do what you enjoy and build a family legacy. I began investing in real estate to protect and grow the wealth I built in my previous career, but I found investment opportunities to be mediocre at best. Sponsors were more interested in making my money their money while exposing me to extraordinary risk. My business partner, Dave Scherer, and I co-founded Origin Investments to change the industry by empowering investors to truly realize the benefits of owning real estate.

PASSIVE INCOME WHILE YOU SLEEP

Financial freedom is about having your assets work for you by generating passive income, something I believe no asset class can do better than real estate. Long-term property leases act like a series of bonds that create stable income for the property owner. Plus, appreciation is realized as leases are renewed at higher rates—key to protecting capital from rampant inflation. But not all real estate is created equal. Origin only invests in the multifamily sector because apartments are a lower-risk, need-based asset class and a proven hedge against inflation. However, there’s a difference between knowing what to invest in and how to make money. Making consistent returns in multifamily real estate begins by investing in cities with robust population and job growth and investing with a manager with a proven track record.

Origin’s IncomePlus Fund was designed to deliver both growth and income by investing in multifamily properties in Sunbelt markets.

This all-weather fund invests in debt, common equity and ground-up development to both reduce volatility and maximize returns. Dave and I designed it to generate more wealth with lower risk than other vehicles, which is why we’ve invested millions of dollars of our own personal capital in this fund.

Given the unique needs of investors, we understand the IncomePlus Fund is not for everyone. Credit funds are another way to earn passive income because they invest in the more protected part of the capital structure and their returns are generated through contractual income rather than the promise of future growth. The Strategic Credit Fund, offered through our affiliate firm, was designed to deliver stable monthly income to its investment partners by investing in debt collateralized by multifamily properties. I believe that today’s high interest rate environment, combined with the safety of multifamily, make this fund another option for incomeseeking investors to seriously consider.

YOUR WEALTH, YOUR WAY

Dave and I have always offered this advice to investors: Ask tough questions, work with an experienced team, and seek advice that fits your unique situation. This way, you can focus on things you truly enjoy, knowing that your wealth is protected for the next generation.

To learn more about the advantages of investing in multifamily real estate, visit Origininvestments.com

THE BUSINESS OF ETHICS

How—and Why—to Align Your Brand with Your Customers’ Values.

BY BARRY LABOV

Twenty years ago, we didn’t hear much about sustainability from companies or their approach to social responsibility. But flash forward to today, and if you are a manufacturer that isn’t talking about these two topics, you’ve fallen behind. Sustainability and corporate responsibility have not only become unique selling points but are often interwoven into a brand’s story and messaging. Socially conscious customers are responding with their purchase power and loyalty, proving the importance of ethical branding in business. And brands are responding by aligning with their customers’ values, growing trust and sharing their actions for building a safer and healthier future.

Here are a few ways to do that:

Discover what is important. According to the Capgemini Research Institute, 79 percent of consumers are changing their purchase preferences based on social responsibility, inclusiveness or environmental impact. That makes it all the more important to discover what your customers and prospects hold most significant. Take the time to survey and talk with them. Then use what you learn to determine

how you can align your mission to achieve meaningful environmental and social progress.

Make it a differentiator. Any efforts your company makes to reduce its environmental impact and act in a socially responsible way should be used as differentiators. I’ve worked with manufacturers that actively develop innovations that allow them to reuse natural resources or reduce, or even eliminate, waste in their facilities. Some of them even help customers operate more sustainably by visiting their facilities and advising them on the most efficient ways to use their products or how they can change their processes to be more productive. These are all powerful differentiators that set them apart from competitors and appeal to customers who seek out suppliers with environmentally responsible operations.

Give teams meaning and purpose. The most important thing you can do is give employees and sales teams meaning beyond their dayto-day jobs. Engaged, loyal teams recognize their value and see their role in driving the company’s mission forward and doing work that matters. Employees will be less likely to leave a company that actively cares for and protects the environment, people and communities, especially if they have opportunities to

personally contribute in these areas. From company-wide recycling programs to special days throughout the year where teams can volunteer their time, environmentally and socially conscious activities create a positive, uplifting culture that attracts and retains talent.

Get it out there. Businesses may be inclined to keep their sustainability progress under wraps until they’re well on the way to achieving their goals. They may feel the company isn’t far enough along or that it’s lagging behind competitors. But sharing environmental and social goals early and often will let customers, employees, suppliers, the community and the industry know that you are working toward meaningful progress. Silence will only lead them to assume you’re doing nothing in these areas. Annual reports, websites and social media are just a few of the ways you can share progress on your sustainability and corporate responsibility goals.

Protect the people. For the best manufacturers, the safety of their people is an ongoing focus. These companies must share their safety story and make it part of their brand messaging. No customer wants to purchase products from a company that puts human lives at risk in their manufacturing process. They also don’t want to purchase from businesses that fail to protect human rights within their material sourcing or supply chains. Brands must explain how they’re keeping their employees safe and protecting the lives of those who contribute to their production and distribution processes.

Live up to your promises. Ethical brands live up to their promises. They avoid saying one thing and doing another. They are transparent and honest in their messaging and business practices. And when issues arise, they own up to their mistakes. When Netflix separated its DVD service from its streaming service, customers who wanted to keep both were faced with a steep price increase. The CEO issued a letter explaining the changes, and while the prices didn’t change, the company was more transparent about the what and why of this significant shift in their brand model.

Today, consumers have more choices than ever on the products and services they purchase. Increasingly, they are seeking out environmentally and socially conscious brands whose mission aligns with what’s most important to them. That’s why companies must communicate their values and position their sustainability and social efforts as differentiators to not only win the hearts and minds of their customers but also become leaders in their industries.

UNCHARTED TERRITORY

Would Lowering Interest Rates Be a Magic Bullet for the Economy?

BY KEN MCELROY

In the last few years, due to printing money and low interest rates, inflation has become a big problem in the U.S. economy. This has happened in past administrations, the most notable being the 1970s, which was called the time of “Great Inflation.” At the time, Paul Volcker was the FED chair and he reduced inflation by increasing the Federal Funds rate to a whopping 19 percent in 1981 and inflation eased to 2 percent by 1983.

Volcker’s tough on inflation stance is Jerome Powell’s current strategy. Powell believes if we raise interest rates, it will slow down the economy and decrease inflation. While it sounds good in theory, I don’t think the FED’s strategy of raising rates can get us out of the high inflation predicament we are in. In fact, there is an argument to be made that lowering rates is the only way to bring inflation down to anywhere near their target 2 percent. Let’s dive into the numbers so I can explain this to you.

The Consumer Price Index, or CPI, is broken down into eight categories. One of these categories is shelter. Shelter accounts for one-third of the CPI, so if shelter prices substantially rise, the inflation numbers increase drastically. So while inflation came in at 3.7 percent across the board last month, shelter came in at 5.7 percent. This shows us the real problem in the inflation numbers is housing.

Housing has very little to do with interest rates, and a lot to do with supply and demand. In the time of the “Great Inflation,” we had an overabundance of housing. When rates increased, this made shelter prices decrease, as you would see in a traditional raising of interest rates environment. What is currently different is we have a deficit in the supply

of houses on the market. This deficit creates a problem for the FED because even with high interest rates, there is no supply to let the market pricing naturally decline. To get shelter inflation under control, you need more supply. There are two ways to achieve more supply on the market and both of them involve lowering interest rates.

The first reason lower rates would create a housing supply is it would allow people to list their homes. Currently, many people would love to move, but the 3-4 percent interest rate they are locked into prohibits this. If rates dropped dramatically and were closer to 5 percent, people would take a slightly higher rate to be in a home that fits their needs, but most people wouldn’t take on an 8 percent interest rate to do so.

Secondly, lowering rates would increase supply because it would increase building. Most of you probably don’t pay attention to this, but anything you see being built now is only being completed, not started. This is because construction loans are currently sitting around 10 percent. I know in my company, MC Companies, we have put six apartment projects that we haven’t started on hold until rates are at a more reasonable level. This is going on with developers all over the country.

However, lowering rates isn’t a magic bullet. Low rates will stimulate the economy and create more inflation. Lowering rates would only help the housing piece of the CPI. Printing money and extremely low interest rates put the U.S economy in this situation and with the lack of supply of housing, this is uncharted territory. It will be interesting to see if the FED can get us back to 2 percent inflation or if they accept a higher inflation benchmark in order to start lowering rates later this year.

Comfort. Convenience. Control.

Premium Private Jet Owner/Operator

flyExclusive Goes Public to Expand Fractional Ownership Program.

BY JETSET EDITORS

flyExclusive, a provider of premium private jet charter experiences, recently went public with the aid of approximately $100 million in capital and $50 million in follow-on debt and preferred equity investments. The funding will enable flyExclusive to expand its fleet and fractional ownership offerings for clients who want to experience the comfort, convenience, and control of access to on-demand jet travel across the globe. The Company currently operates a fleet of approximately 100 jets. flyExclusive is listed on the NYSE American and trades under the ticker symbol FLYX.

Ideal for travelers who prefer to fly private 50 or more hours each year, flyExclusive’s fractional ownership program provides easy access to private jet travel while requiring a lower capital investment than full jet ownership, potentially offering similar tax benefits. The fractional ownership program gives travelers peace of mind to plan travel without the concern of crew hiring and training, insurance, and other regulatory and operational requirements.

According to flyExclusive, its fractional program is unique in that it has no monthly management fees. Travelers only pay for the days they fly. With proper notice, there are no repositioning fees. These policies help the Company offer competitive pricing.

Aircraft available through the fractional ownership program include the Cessna CJ3+, which offers reliability, performance, and comfort in the light jet category. The Company also recently added Bombardier Challenger 350 jets to the fractional program and has announced plans to add as many as 20 of the aircraft to its fleet in the next 2 years. The Challenger 350 is a highly capable and sophisticated business jet that offers a comfortable and luxurious non-stop cross-country flying experience. flyExclusive also plans to add several Cessna Citation XLS Gen2 midsize business jets to its fleet.

flyExclusive’s CEO and founder Jim Segrave said, “This is a beautiful jet that our customers will love. It’s fast and it’s spacious. Whether you want to stand up and walk on the flat floor during the flight or get work done as you fly

non-stop cross-country you can do it on our Challenger 350s.”

For travelers who typically fly private 20 to 50 hours per year, flyExclusive offers membership in its Jet Club program. Jet Club memberships are structured as a 24-month term with 12-month fixed rates, reduced peak and high demand days and premiums, flexible schedule savings, a choice of multiple purchase tiers, and guaranteed access to a large fleet of light, midsize, and super-midsize aircraft.

flyExclusive also offers private jet charters independent of membership programs. These charters provide clients with VIP service and flexible travel across the globe. Each charter is customized to meet the client’s unique trip requirements.

Vertical integration sets flyExclusive apart from many of its competitors. The company manages all aspects of the customer experience, ensuring that every flight is on a modern, comfortable, and safe aircraft. flyExclusive’s in-house repair station, including paint, interiors, and avionics capabilities, are provided from its campus headquarters in Kinston, North Carolina.

As one satisfied client said, “In an industry full of amazing service that spoils and pampers its customers, flyExclusive has somehow figured out how to stand out above all the rest.” Another commented, “We’ve flown with most of the big services—flyExclusive is hands down the most luxurious, consistent, feature rich, and fairly priced in the industry.” flyexclusive.com

JIM SEGRAVE

Blinded Smoke

How an Innovative Solution to a Critical Safety Risk is Clearing a Path to Safer Skies. by

BY JETSET EDITORS

COmmercial airline pilot, Captain Brian S., was executing a normal flight plan when he noticed smoke rising around him. What he didn’t know at the time, was that oil had leaked into the air conditioning system, blowing smoke into the cockpit. The situation turned critical within moments as the cockpit filled with thick smoke. In that instant, he and his crew were flying blind.

Captain Brian recalls, “It happened all of a sudden, real quickly, and I couldn’t see my flight instruments. I had to put on my mask and goggles and the oxygen mask hose caught on something. I couldn’t lean forward and couldn’t figure out what it was caught on. I couldn’t see the panel, so I’m feeling around the cockpit by

hand where the autopilot controls are. Until we get this smoke resolved, we can’t see anything in the cockpit…”

According to FAA reports, there are an average of three incidents a day due to smoke, fire or fumes on aircraft in the US alone. With the proliferation of lithium-ion battery-powered devices (on average nearly 600 lithium batteries per commercial flight), there is a growing awareness of fire and smoke safety protocols in the aviation industry today.

VisionSafe’s Emergency Vision Assurance System, EVAS, is a Cockpit Smoke Displacement System that is available for installation via OEMs and aftermarket installation for airlines, cargo operators,

corporate fleets and private jets. The EVAS safety system displaces smoke from the flight crew’s line of sight to their critical flight instruments and the windscreen, and replaces it with clear, filtered air via a bespoke Inflatable Vision Unit.

Hundreds of private operators, passenger aircraft and most global air freighters are already EVAS equipped. In all, EVAS has been installed on thousands of aircraft and has Supplemental Type Certificates (STCs) applicable to over 120 aircraft models.

Bombardier, Dassault Falcon Jet and Gulfstream have designated EVAS as an OEM client option, with EVAS included as standard equipment on select aircraft. VisionSafe also holds EVAS certifications for Airbus, Boeing, Embraer, Textron and other aircraft.

As the landscape of technology and travel continues to evolve, the prioritization of onboard safety measures like EVAS becomes paramount. Flight departments, pilot unions and government agencies are vocal supporters of safeguarding pilot vision during smoke emergencies, and currently, many aircraft have no protection against continuous blinding smoke. EVAS is quick and easy to install and provides a crucial layer of safety to address a serious problem: when you can’t see, you can’t fly. VisionSafe.com/js

BREAKING THROUGH PLATEAUS

Seven Common Fears That Can Hinder Business Growth.

BY DR. JOHN DEMARTINI

Are you feeling that you are plateaued in your business development or company growth?

Are you wondering why you are not breaking through and going to the next level?

There are at least seven common fears that can at least partly underlie business plateaus. But, before I share them, I would first love to share a story involving a very common one.

Recently I had a 40-year-old business entrepreneur approach me and ask if I could consult with him about his business growth concerns. I stated, “certainly.” We scheduled a time, and I began the session by asking him to prioritize what he felt he wanted to work on

first and foremost. He stated that no matter what strategy he has tried over the past three years, he just can’t seem to break through the business growth ceiling he is at and he feels stagnant and stuck.

I then asked him a simple straight forward question: “If all of a sudden you were to break through this current ceiling in your business and take your business to the next level, what would you be afraid could happen?” He stared at me for a moment and suddenly stated: “I am afraid my wife would divorce me, because of all the extra time and effort it would take.”

Then he explained that three of his friends and business colleagues previously took off in their businesses and became a bit cocky, preoccupied in their businesses, and soon did not meet some of their wife’s needs. They all ended up in a divorce, which cost them a substantial

portion of their existing fortunes and nearly completely crumbled their businesses, at least for a while. He said, “I guess the idea of that possibly happening scares the daylight out of me and maybe it is adding at least one of the brake pedals on my business growth.”

I was sure there were other fears and reasons, including certain management and delegation issues to be addressed, but I tackled his first concern on the spot. I stated, “Every decision you make and action you take will be based upon what you believe will give you the greatest advantage with the information you have according to your current hierarchy of values. Unless you find ways in which doing the proven actions to grow your business can enhance or build your marriage more than destroy it, you will probably plateau to protect you from this anxiety and its potential outcome.”

Every decision you make and action you take will be based upon what you believe will give you the greatest advantage with the information you have according to your current hierarchy of values.

I explained to him that if his wife did not feel she would be winning if he were to grow his business, she will probably respond in a way to try to get what she wants. So I asked him how growing his business to the level he desired could help his wife achieve what is highest on her set of values and what he perceives her life is being inspired by and dedicated to.

At first, he could not see any immediate advantages to her or the family. But I prompted some possible benefits to her of him achieving his dream. As we continued, he made new beneficial associations in his mind of how getting what he wanted could help her get what she wanted. The more links we found to help her fulfill her family dreams and social contributions, the less anxiety he was feeling about achieving his goal.

He also saw how delegating some of the lower priority actions he was still doing at could liberate him and allow more quality time for his wife and family. Plus, he saw how it could liberate her from doing more mundane actions at home and allow her the freedom to pursue some of her more meaningful objectives.

His energy immediately started rising and new creative strategies and action steps started emerging and flowing. Once he saw how growing his business would not be in the way of a lasting marriage, he was inspired and ready to take action. He could not wait to go home and share the new advantages he could provide his wife and family by stepping up his business growth.

Over the next six months, his business took off and broke through the previous ceiling, but he kept his focus on how it could benefit his family. This is the definition of caring.

In addition to the fear of losing the respect of loved ones, there are six other common fears that can hinder an entrepreneur’s business growth and prevent them from getting to the next level. These are the fear of:

• Not knowing enough to strategically plan and execute business strategies to meet objectives.

• Defeat or failure by not achieving the business objectives they envision.

• Not making enough income or losing money by pursuing business objectives.

• Being rejected by social authorities they look up to for pursuing business objectives.

• Not having enough vitality, stamina, or wellness to achieve their business objectives.

• Breaking the morals or ethics of a spiritual authority they are subordinating to by pursuing their business objectives.

Each of these fears can hinder the achievement of your chief business aim. By confronting each of the existing fears that can cause you to plateau by answering specialized questions

like those in the story above, you can become conscious of what you are unconscious of and see beyond the associated disadvantages holding your back and bring them into balance.

The seven common fears are simply assumptions that you are about to experience more drawbacks than benefits. So look for the advantages to these imagined fears and balance them out by holding yourself accountable and liberate yourself from the ceiling your imbalanced mind has temporarily imagined.

Dr. John Demartini is the founder of the Demartini Institute, a human behavioral specialist, educator and international best-selling author. Drdemartini.com

LUXE CALENDAR

JULY 6 - 21

FESTIVAL NAPA VALLEY

Napa Valley, California

Recognized for transforming California wine country into a cultural destination, Festival Napa Valley features innovative musical and dance productions paired with Napa Valley’s unparalleled food, wine and hospitality. Highlights will include tributes to Sophia Loren and Henry Mancini along with classical and contemporary music, opera, dance, jazz, film classics, a grand tasting of food and wine, at than 60 concerts and events at iconic venues throughout Napa Valley.

AUGUST 1 - 4

SYDNEY INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW

International Convention Centre & Cockle Bay Marina, Darling Harbour, Sydney, Australia

Presented by the Boating Industry Association Ltd., the four-day event will showcase the best of the boating lifestyle. Highlights will include an on-water display with more than 200 powerboats and sailboats, as well as a host of premium exhibitors displaying the latest trailer boats, personal watercraft and marine technology in the exhibition halls. There will also be a host of popular entertainment and activities, such as fishing masterclasses, watersports demonstrations, marine education and kids’ activities.

AUGUST

18

PEBBLE BEACH CONCOURS D’ELEGANCE

Pebble Beach, California

The flagship of Pebble Beach Automotive Week, the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance is considered to be the world’s premier celebration of the automobile. Each year, the finest collector cars gather on the 18th fairway of Pebble Beach Golf Links to compete to be named Best of Show—the ultimate award for automobiles. Experts critique their elegance, technical merit and history, and some of the most anticipated concepts and new car debuts will be on display.

AUGUST 28 - SEPTEMBER 7

VENICE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

Lido di Venezia, Venice, Italy

The 81st Venice International Film Festival, organized by La Biennale di Venezia, is officially recognized by the International Federation of Film Producers Association (FIAPF). Its aim is to raise awareness and promote international cinema in all its forms as art, entertainment and as an industry, in a spirit of freedom and dialogue. One section is devoted to enhancing the restoration works on classic films as a contribution towards a better understanding of the history of cinema.

Pebble Beach Concours D’Elegance

Festival Napa Valley

SEPTEMBER 10 - 15

CANNES YACHTING FESTIVAL

Bay of Cannes, Cannes, France

The Cannes Yachting Festival is the first boat show in the sailing season and Europe’s biggest in-water event. It brings together those involved in leisure boating to present their new products for the first time. New for 2024 will be the launch of an area entirely dedicated to new motorboats measuring from 8 meters long. The new exhibit area will accommodate 170 boats with rigid or semi-rigid hulls. The new display will be located between the Sailing and Brokerage & Toys areas in Port Canto.

SEPTEMBER 12 - 15

MERCEDES - BENZ FASHION WEEK

Madrid, Spain

This is Spain’s number one fashion show and the leading showcase for raising the profile of Spanish fashion around the world. The event will take place in Hall 14.1 at Feria de Madrid and in select venues around the city. Both well-established designers in the general program and the hottest young talents of the moment on the Allianz EGO catwalk will launch their collections at this fashion-forward event.

SEPTEMBER 13 - 22

ROCK IN RIO 2024

Parque Olímpico do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

To celebrate its 40th anniversary, Rock in Rio has put together a stellar lineup of big names in music, including Ed Sheeran, who will perform at the festival for the first time. Among the dozens of other artists who will appear are Imagine Dragons, OneRepublic, Travis Scott, Ne-Yo, Akon, Katy Perry, Mariah Carey, Joss Stone and Shawn Mendes. The festival will operate on seven dates between September 13 and 22.

OCTOBER

4 - 7

FINE ART ASIA

Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wanchai, Hong Kong Island, China

Fine Art Asia 2024 will take place at Hong Kong’s most prestigious conference venue which overlooks spectacular Victoria Harbour. The event is recognized by the international art world as Asia’s leading fine art fair and has earned a worldwide reputation for quality and elegance. On display will be museum-quality artworks spanning over 5,000 years of cultural history, from ancient Chinese bronzes to contemporary art.

OCTOBER 22 - 24

NBAA BUSINESS AVIATION ASSOCIATION CONVENTION & EXHIBITION

Las Vegas Convention Center, Henderson Executive Airport, Las Vegas, Nevada

The world of business aviation will gather in Las Vegas to see the latest aircraft, review innovations for the flight deck, and hear from aviation and business leaders about the future of the industry. This is the most important business aviation event of the year and the world’s most important event dedicated to showcasing business aviation products and services.

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week

Rock in Rio 2024

Fine Art Asia

51 FEET OF UNMATCHED LUXURY, POWER & PERFORMANCE MORE OF EVERYTHING

Imagine roaring in the BVI in the one-of-a-kind comfort and style found only on an Intrepid built expressly for you. Our biggest boat yet, the expansive topside and roomy cabin can be appointed with every imaginable state-of-the-art feature and luxurious amenity you desire.

LOA 51’ 0” | BEAM 14’ 10” | MAX FUEL 900 GL | WATER 130 GL

Designed to accommodate a full-height tuna tower and today’s larger engines, highlights begin with an 8-seat helm station, luxurious forward lounge, and innovative new hydraulic swim platform. A huge aft cockpit offers pressurized above-deck bait wells, extra-large fish boxes, secure rod storage, and an optional kitchenette that lets you cook and serve what you catch. To get started on yours, contact us today.

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