La Dolce Vita August / September 2013

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An American legend Exclusive...

Story Musgrave

Live your life to the full August/September 2013

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Welcome

to La Dolce Vita

Your guide to “the good life”.

We will tempt you with opportunities so you can enjoy life to the full!

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Andrew Russell

Each issue will be bring before you ideas for new and sometimes different experiences, interesting articles as well as inform you of products and services that may enrich your life.

Travellers will benefit from the experiences of our writers who having stepped off the beaten track.

They will recommend top destinations from around the world to a regular feature on one of the best hotels in the world, for this issue; The Milestone in London, Should you be more adventurous then you will enjoy our “new hobby” features, which this issue focuses on sailing.

As ever, beautiful images will be delivered to your palm as we understand that it is impossible to visit all the places that you might want to - you will not be left without the richness of all there is to be discovered across the globe.

For travel and hospitality opportunities just contact our travel team on 01234 354209.

So again, we welcome you to our publication. Whether you are seeking new experiences or ways in which to better enjoy your current surroundings, La Dolce Vita will be here for you.

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Please send any comments you may have to: editor@ladolcevita.info Thank You! Editor-in-Chief – Andrew Russell

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An American legend who’s “1oo percent English” Exclusive...

Story Musgrave

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Future Issues include: •

Features on Waddesdon Manor and Bletchley Park

•

Interview with the Astronaut who went into Space aged 61

An American legend who’s “1oo percent English” Exclusive..

Star man Story… he’s still out of this world at 78!

Story Musgrave

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Running across the fields of his parent’s dairy farm in Stockbridge just outside Boston, Massachusetts at the outbreak of the Second World War, a five-year-old Story Musgrave would often look up at the early evening stars and wonder about his existence in time and space.

This celebrated Space Shuttle astronaut and US marine hero-in-waiting says he knew at the age of just three he had already “crossed over,” as he put it, into the adult world.

At that age, attuning with the forces of nature that surrounded him, alone and determined, he was building and floating river rafts by the time he turned five as well as riding combine harvesters. By age 10, the young Story was driving trucks and tractors - still alone in remote fields and by 13, when they broke down, he had the wherewithal and self-taught knowledge to repair them.

Speaking at his palm oil plantation home in Kissimmee, on the edge of the Florida Everglades, the man who fixed the Hubble telescope in 1993 explained: “I only do what’s fun, always have done. I am having fun now, so when I want to stop having fun, well, it’ll all be over for me.”

There wasn’t much fun, however, in Story’s early years.

“I came from an extraordinarily dysfunctional family, full of abuse and alcoholism. It’s hard to say what drives a threeyear-old, but I think I had a sense that nature was my solace, and nature was a place in which there was beauty, in which there was order.” He added: “I wouldn’t have wanted my boys to go through that but, for me I guess, it made me who I am. It took me there. It made me a survivor. I think the way you feel about the past is how you’re doing today.

I like what I have today. It created something back then.

I know it was a tragedy on them [his parents], but they mostly brought it upon themselves.”

Flying high Although not trained as a military pilot at this point, Story was learning as much as he could about the flying world.

Having spent the early part of his life on a farm fixing a variety of farm machinery, Story was very much at home with the mechanics of the job. He took pride in the responsibility of ‘pre-flighting’ the airplane, but it was almost inevitable that he was to become a marine pilot.

The young adventurer wrote of his experiences in a series of poignant letters to his mother and brothers, documenting the joys and challenges of his new-found career. Story expressed his excitement about his various aircraft adventures and the fascinating nature of the new cultures he experienced.

He started flying with the Marines and over the next 55 years had accumulated 18,000 hours in over 160 aircraft.

Dr Story Musgrave is a parachutist with over 800 freefalls, has seven graduate degrees in maths, computers, chemistry, medicine, physiology, literature and psychology and has been awarded 20 honorary doctorates. He was also a part-time trauma surgeon during his 30-year astronaut career.

Not having achieved his High School Diploma, he heard through a friend about the opportunities for servicemen at Syracuse University, New York. He applied and was accepted after almost two years in the Marines, and began

what was to become a long and fruitful journey through the world of formal education. Syracuse was really the launch pad, if you’ll pardon the pun, of his academic achievements. Story applied himself and completed a mathematics-focused degree in record time, then applied to University of Los Angeles to enrol in a Master of Business degree. He was accepted and moved to California in late1958.

Story enjoyed the Californian lifestyle immensely and was fascinated with his studies in operations analysis and computer programming. After completing his Masters degree at UCLA, Story enrolled at Marietta College where he completed a degree in Chemistry. This would enable him to apply to medical school, which he subsequently did. Columbia University, New York was to be his home and place of study for four years.

NASA career Having joined NASA in 1967, it would be 16 years before Story flew in space for the first time, not having been appointed to a flight during the Apollo programme. Story would become backup Science Pilot for the first Skylab mission - America’s first orbiting space station - and then Capsule Communicator for the second and third Skylab missions. The last manned Skylab mission ended in 1974, but it would be 1981 before the first space shuttle mission STS-1 was launched, with Story slated to take his place on STS-6. This was a four-person mission which launched from the Kennedy Space Center on April 4, 1983. It was also the maiden voyage of the space shuttle Challenger.

Other crew members included Paul Weitz, Karol Bobko and Don Peterson. Story’s family was watching alongside the families of other crew members as he finally had the opportunity to fly in space. It was a successful daytime launch and on Day 3, Mission Specialists Story and Don Peterson took those first few memorable and historic steps www.ldvuk.com 9

outside the spacecraft - performing basic manoeuvres in their spacesuits and testing the tools as well as the manual operation of the payload bay doors.

Images of the astronauts seemingly performing somersaults as they worked their way along the payload bay have become some of the best-remembered images of the early days of the space shuttle. The crew successfully completed their mission and returned to Edwards Air Force Base on April 9 that year.

His most notable and daring achievement was the repair and servicing of the deep space Hubble telescope in 1993, when the Space Shuttle Endeavour rendezvoused with and ‘captured’ the telescope to install, primarily, protective covers on the giant space eye’s magnetometers. During this 11day flight, the faulty Hubble was restored to its full capabilities through the work of two pairs of astronauts during a record five spacewalks. Story performed three of these spacewalks. After having travelled 4,433,772 miles in 163 orbits of the Earth, Endeavour returned to its Florida base.

“People love Hubble images. It tells them where they are from, it tells them where they’re going - it ties it all together,”

he interjects while on the subject.

Of course, I had to ask the obvious question: What was it like for the first time to look back at the Earth from outer space?

“I’ve actually had better experiences,” came the surprising reply.

“You just don’t even know what you’re looking at. That first time I just asked myself Where am I? Where’s the geography? You get much better though flight after flight. You get smarter. You never get familiar with it, just very good at seeing things. But you know, space flight was not an epiphany for me.”

Fired, not retired He is the only NASA astronaut to have flown missions on all five Space Shuttles. Prior to John Glenn’s return to space in 1998, Story held the record for the oldest person in orbit, at age 61. Each successive spaceflight was to become “richer and richer,” over his 30 years with the Space Shuttle series, he said. Like many others, he was sad to see the end of the programme in 2011 - and he was vehemently bitter about NASA and the US Government’s attitude to space exploration. In a startling confession, he told me that he did not, as the official records state, ‘retire’ from NASA in

1997 - but was fired! “They’d had enough of me. They had no vision and when I protested they just said - ‘that’s all for you.’ I am sad to see no vision out of Washington regarding the shuttle. They have no vision on anything apart from budgets, but then I don’t think the current Government would have been different to any other regime. It’s simply a case of not being able to get to do anything anymore when it comes to space.

For Story, who will be 78 in August, his later experiences in space were the epitome of his childhood exploration and discovery of nature. It was the child who is totally immersed in a strange and wonderful environment, who finds new perspective in the experience. He has never lost sight of the need to challenge life’s experiences, and by turns has had high expectations of himself - as well as others. This is a man who doesn’t suffer fools - or those who become too settled and comfortable with their lot in life - gladly.

“I have a different perspective on things I guess. Not that I’m prejudiced against those who lack motivation but I know what happens to people who don’t want to keep moving always looking for stability. Stability is not my game. If you want to get somewhere in life you have to be wary of stability and people that have given up. Otherwise, you can’t get anywhere. They don’t want challenge, they don’t want the unknown, they don’t want they unexpected, they don’t want to reinvent themselves. They’re happy just standing still. I can’t do that. Getting out of the comfortable path - that’s what exploration of any kind is all about.”

Youth and the future Not a man to mince his words, he explained: “If I run into an organisation that seems dead, I leave. I can’t work with dead people. They’re corpses. I’m trying to make stuff happen…

I want ideas to go forward.” On the subject of the younger generation, he excelled. “I love them. They’re my sounding board.

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They [his students] make me question myself - Am I thinking OK? I give four hours a week with graduates of industrial design - they’re going to get my faith, they’re going to tell me how it is, they’re not going to accept what I give them straight off, they’re going to challenge me. I don’t want ‘yes’ people.

Yes, they’re my sounding board for Am I young enough?

I love youth.

No, if in doubt, you’ve got to go with youth.”On Britain, he’s totally enthusiastic. “I used to come to the UK every month, working for Deutsch Bank in Bishopsgate, London. I’m 100 per cent English, although I’ve been in this country for 300 years. I met my relatives out there, in Bath. My family history goes back to the Norman Conquest. But London, it’s extremely fast… economically fast, like New York.”

As a man of culture as well as science, he describes himself as “massively spiritual. I can feel that when I go to places of antiquity, like museums - places like Winchester and Stonehenge are a wonder.”

With such a remarkable career behind him, yet still very much in full flight in terms of his businesses and teaching, could there really be anything else left for him to achieve?

“I only do what’s fun these days. I am having fun, so when I want to stop having fun, well, it’ll all be over for me. I am going to go to space again, sure. The sub orbital tourist thing - and I want to take little Story with me. But I don’t think the world will let me!

What do I still want to achieve? To be a good husband, dad and grandfather. I like to think I make a difference to someone every week, but it starts here, with my family. Little Story is the light of my life. She’s the best thing I’ve ever done. She’s just massively joyful… a bundle of pleasure for me and that, in looking back at all I’ve done, makes me more contented than anything else.”

Graham C. Garnett

www.ldvuk.com

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The Tall Ships Youth Trust: The Tall Ships Youth Trust is the UK’s leading sail training charity dedicated to the development of young people, offering exhilarating and inspirational sailing adventures on its magnificent 200ft Tall Ship, Stavros S Niarchos, its fleet of four 72ft ocean-going Challenger Yachts, and its 62ft Catamaran. Adventures vary from 1 to 24 nights around the UK, Canaries, Mediterranean and Caribbean. No sailing experience is required and voyages are available for everyone aged 12 to 80.

Over 3,500 trainees will sail on Stavros S Niarchos and the Challenger Fleet this year alone. Over 100,000 people have sailed with us over the years and many return to sail with us as a volunteer, become a member of the charity or join one of our volunteer support groups around the UK.

Everyone works as a team while on board and it can be tough sometimes, but voyage crew are always supported by the Professional Crew and Trained Volunteers.

Everyone is encouraged to participate as much as possible and no-one is made to do anything that they don’t want to.

What does the charity provide for young people?

Sailing teaches young people about life at sea and at the same time teaches them skills for life. In a world that can be excluding and challenging, sailing as part of a Tall Ships Youth Trust crew makes for a participative and empowering few days. It encourages teamwork, communication, leadership, friendship, physical and mental challenges in a new and un-contrived environment – and all this within a framework of equality of opportunity and supportive leadership.

Whilst on board, voyage crew will get involved with setting the sails, taking the helm, hauling the ropes and for those brave enough - climbing the rigging of the 200ft Mast - whilst enjoying the thrill of sailing on board a square rigged brig, round the world Challenger yachts or a Tall Ships Catamaran.

Mission Statement: To help young people to develop their confidence and life skills and to promote a healthier and more active lifestyle through the excitement and challenge of learning to sail on our Brig, Challenger Yachts or Catamaran.

Tall Ships Adventures: Working alongside Tall Ships Youth Trust, Tall Ships Adventures provides the chance for Adults to get on board the Fleet and experience the voyage of a lifetime!

Tall Ships Adventures offers voyages ranging from one night taster voyages to trips across the Atlantic, The Rolex Fastnet, Caribbean 600 and many more!

The voyages are a unique hands-on experience.

Voyage Crew become an important part of the vessel’s crew and this involves more than just the sailing – it will include food preparation, maintenance and cleaning.

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The Trust sails all year round - in and around Europe and the UK from April to November and further a-field in the Winter months - the Azores, Canaries and Caribbean.

The aim is to maximise the amount of sailing on every voyage and try to visit at least one foreign port on longer voyages.

On most of the voyages, no previous sailing experience is required as Voyage Crew are shown everything they need to know. Each voyage starts with a thorough safety brief before training begins and this continues throughout the voyage using a combination of practical demonstrations and informative lectures. Everyone is encouraged to get involved with as much as possible while on board and on many voyages there is the opportunity to work towards an RYA qualification. Watch Leaders and other members of the crew will teach voyage crew how to do things whilst they’re on duty and they will get involved with all activities.

Voyage Crew will have plenty of free time, when not on watch, to relax and rest. When the vessel enters ports crew should be able to explore ashore with a chance to buy souvenirs and stock up on supplies.

Robert who sailed on Stavros S Niarchos last year said: “I have spent the previous seven days having a wonderful time. I was lucky enough for a friend to book the trip for my birthday. It was a lifetime’s wish to sail on a square rigged ship…The ship looked beautiful and was so graceful under sail.”

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EL CELLER DE CAN ROCA *** Michelin 2012 Nº1 The World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2013

El Celler is a free-style restaurant, committed to the avant-garde, but still faithful to the memory of different generations of the family’s ancestors dedicated to feeding people. It was founded by the brothers Joan and Josep Roca at the end of August, 1986, in Girona.

Joan, in the kitchen, and Josep, in the dining room.

Immediately after that, in 1987, Encarna Tirado, now married to Josep Roca, joined the project in the dining room. And the youngest brother, Jordi, started in the kitchen of El Celler in 1998.

El Celler started out in a small premises, just next to the house of the parents, Josep Roca and Montse Fontané, owners of Can Roca, a bar-restaurant opened in Taialà-Germans Sàbat, a popular neighbourhood on the outskirts of Girona.

The first premises were small. In 1991 they set their sights on can Sunyer, a country house, a hybrid of modernist and colonial styles built in 1911 by the architect Isidre Bosch i Bataller, standing just a few metres away from the family home. After purchasing it they adapted it as a banqueting hall called la Torre de Can Roca. Fifteen years later, in November 2007, – the new Celler was relocated to the Tower. The former 170 square metre premises were quadrupled by a new and more comfortable premises: 200 square metres of kitchen, 200 of winery, 200 of dining room and 60 for the hall, plus a welcoming garden.

El Celler de Can Roca’s commitment to cuisine and to the avant-garde, and its link to academia, has led it to defend the dialogue between the countryside and science, a total dialogue. All three brothers studied at the Girona Catering School and believe in pedagogy as the basis for the professionals of the future.

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In fact, El Celler de Can Roca is the outcome of the evolution of a family that has been engaged in the restaurant trade for many generations, through knowledge handed down from great-great grandparents to great grandparents, from great grandparents to grandparents, grandparents to parents and from parents to children. And with a permanent avant-garde vocation. The father, Josep Roca i Pont, was born in Can Reixach, which still operates as a restaurant, in Sant Martí de Llémena, on November 24, 1933. He was the local bus driver, roasted chickens on a spit and grilled meat, and spent a good many years behind the counter at Can Roca. His mother was Grannie Angeleta, her grandchildren’s’ muse, who spent “all her life stirring pans and feeding people”. Montserrat Fontané i Serra, their mother, was born on June 8, 1936, in Can Batista de Sant Martí de Llémena. She is

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the revered driving force and cook, the person who has had the greatest influence on cooking at Can Roca. Montserrat Fontané’s family may possibly have been in the restaurant business since at least circa 1700, the 18th Century, in Sant Martí de Llémena.

Josep Roca and Montserrat Fontané, the cook, were

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married in 1962 and opened Can Roca in 1967. Joan Roca, the chef, was born on February 11, 1964. Josep Roca, sommelier and maitre, came into the world on March 19, 1966, and Jordi Roca, the pastry cook, followed on May 2, 1978. They are all winners of the National Gastronomy Award and are all honorary

doctors of the University of Girona. All the leading restaurant guides and gastronomy critics have acknowledged El Celler’s achievements over its first twenty-five years. The first Michelin star was awarded in 1995; the second in 2002. And the third on November 25, 2009. Three suns by the Repsol Guide; 19/29, by 5 a

Taula, by La Vanguardia; 9.5, by Gourmetour; 9.75/10, by the Lo Mejor de la Gastronomía and Gourmand guides. In 2009, the English Restaurant Magazine placed El Celler de Can Roca 5th in the World’s 50 best restaurants. It reached fourth place in 2010 and finally second in 2011. www.ldvuk.com 19

“In my future there is always more future”

Massimo Bottura

“We have interpreted our third Michelin star as a point of departure, not arrival.”

Massimo Bottura and Lara Gilmore

Over the past ten years Chef-Patron Massimo Bottura has become a leading figure among a new generation of Italian chefs. His work both as an innovator and restaurateur confirm him as one of the world’s most creative culinary forces. His two restaurants, the 3 Michelin star Osteria Francescana and offshoot brasserie Franceschetta58, are both situated in Modena, in the culinary-rich Italian region of Emilia-Romagna.

Since Bottura opened Osteria Francescana in 1995, the restaurant has been no stranger to critical acclaim.

It was awarded its first Michelin star in 2002 and a second four years later. Since then the restaurant has engaged in a profound exploration of territory and tradition which expresses itself in the absolute concentration of flavours guided by conceptual premises.

“Inspiration seems to come when I am relaxed: listening to music, watching a film, on vacation, or driving the car. It is like a flash, where all my thinking finally comes together in the shape of a plate.”

Massimo Bottura

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Bottura’s food not only combines cooking techniques with the best local ingredients, but with his deepest reflections on culture, music, art and philosophy.

Dishes such as ‘Tribute to Monk’ are conceptual plates based on a mediation about the artist and about listening and tasting in the dark. An all black plate of black cod cooked with aromatic ashes in a deep black Katsuobushi squid ink broth, the plate is a clash of traditions and concepts. A short film on the dish can be found on the Osteria Francescana website.

At Osteria Francescana, tradition is seen from ten kilometres away. Rules are not broken, but bent.

This intelligent evolution of Italian traditions can be

seen in plates such as “Five textures and temperatures of Parmigiano Reggiano”, and “Osso buco with rice, always al dente” where the rules have been bent and come full circle to remind diners of Italy’s rich gastronomic heritage. ‘Compression of Pasta and Beans’ is a mediation on tradition. Bottura takes a humble peasant dish like Pasta e Fagioli and turns it into a parfait with layers beginning with crème royale alla Robuchon, followed by radicchio rosso with pancetta, cream of beans, Parmigiano crust cut thin like pasta and finally a foam of rosemary.

Diners are able to choose from the A la Carte Menu or from the restaurant’s three Tasting Menus; Traditional, The Classics and Sensations, which include seasonal expressions from the experimental kitchen.

“I always advise young chefs to believe in their dreams.

Impossible is Nothing.”

Massimo Bottura In the last few years Osteria Francescana has been unanimously ranked top by L’espresso, Gambero Rosso, and the Touring Club guide and was awarded the “Grand Prix de l`Art” award from the International Culinary Academy in Paris. Currently resting at 3rd position on the World`s 50 Best Restaurants listing and voted the best restaurant in Italy for the past 5 www.ldvuk.com 21

years, the restaurant also received the 2011 World`s 50 Best Restaurants “Chef`s Choice” award, voted for by the rarefied group of chefs from the top 50 establishments.

In November 2011, Massimo Bottura’s ‘dreaming’ paid off when the Michelin Guide bestowed its ultimate rating -a much coveted third star- upon Osteria Francescana, the first restaurant in the Emilia Romagna region to gain such an award.

In keeping with Bottura’s determination to never lose sight of the future, within days of Michelin’s announcement plans were laid out to project the restaurant forwards. On 5th September 2012, this vision was realised when the doors to Osteria Francescana reopened following months of renovation and innovation, unveiling an updated insight to Bottura’s two greatest passions- contemporary art and avant garde cuisine.

A timeless osteria transformed into a Mecca of contemporary art and culture, Chef Bottura’s walls, as well as his plates, are adorned with references to experimental art, peppered with social, political and historical implications and laced with a healthy sense of humour.

Since opening, the restaurant has housed works such as Francesco Vezzoli’s “La Vie en Rose ”, Carlo Benvenuto’s “Table and glass” and Mario Sciffano’s “World Map”, all of which have helped to define Osteria Francescana’s unique style with their poetic interpretations. This impressive collection was expanded in September 2012 to include works from Bottura’s

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personal collection. Maurizio Cattelan’s “Tourists”; three stuffed Venetian pigeons, part of a piece featured in both the 1997and 2011 Biennale of Venice, brings to mind Bottura’s irreverent approach to contemporary Italian culture, whist Ceal Floyer’s minimalist “Paper and Ink” installation (a box of 20 scholastic coloured markers and water colour paper) Jonathan Borofsky’s “half a sailboat painting” (literally half a painting) and Gavin Turk’s “bin bag” reflect the chef ’s playfulness, a theme which features throughout Osteria Francescana’s menu.

The final days of November 2011 saw Massimo Bottura open offshoot brasserie, Franceschetta 58, offering informal dining and drinks just outside Modena’s medieval city centre. Franceschetta 58 is a collaboration between Massimo and Marta Pulini, creative director of Bibendum catering and former chef at two of New York’s most successful restaurants of the 1990’s, Le Madri and Mad61. With the aim of introducing Modena diners to dishes from other regions, Franceschetta58 showcases produce from the whole of Italy. Small plates of meats, cheeses and pastas all priced at 7 Euros are served using sharing plates.

A laid-back environment, the table settings and walls are decorated with plates in various sizes and styles gathered from the stock of Richard Ginori, one of Italy’s oldest Italian porcelain manufacturers, restaurants, hotels, private collections and out of production Murano glassware.

Franceschetta 58 is closed all day Sunday. It is open from 18:30 until 24:00 every other day. www.franceschetta58.it

Art Deco

Burgh Island Hotel

destinations

the Great Gatsby Style

Thanks to the upcoming release of Baz Luhrmann’s cinematic retelling of F Scott Fitzgerald the Great Gatsby, all things 1920s related are enjoying a much deserved revival and one of the most recognisable features of the era is the Art Deco design style.

Art Deco destinations the Great Gatsby Style Thanks to the upcoming release of Baz Luhrmann’s cinematic retelling of F Scott Fitzgerald the Great Gatsby, all things 1920s related are enjoying a much deserved revival and one of the most recognisable features of the era is the Art Deco design style.

sunbursts, fountains, speed, power and ancient Egyptian and Central American imagery.

Art Deco first appeared in France during the 1920s then spread across the world in 30s and 40s. An eclectic style, Art Deco combines traditional craft motifs with imagery and materials from the modern commercial and industrial world.

The style is known for its bold colours, geometric shapes, and lavish ornamentation. Designers and architects were inspired by jazz music, skyscrapers,

Havana, Cuba

Why not live out your Flapper fantasies at one of these ritzy Art Deco destinations…

With over 500 years’ of history, Havana, Cuba displays a variety of diverse architectural styles from 16th century castle to modern day office blocks.

The Art Deco movement first hit Havana in 1927 in the residential area of Miramar and it soon sprung up in the wealthy suburbs of Marianao, and Vedado.

Havana, Cuba

Burgh Island Hotel

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Burgh Island Hotel is an iconic Devon landmark, a shining white ocean liner, moored on its own tidal island, surrounded by golden beaches and silver seas.

Built in 1929, extended in 1932 and, since 2006, completely restored to its ‘30s glamour, the Burgh Island Hotel is a retreat like none other.

The beauty and intrigue of an island visit has always drawn guests who are looking for something different. It is no surprise that Agatha Christie, Noel Coward and other pre-War luminaries made Burgh Island their second home.

Art Deco Bed-and Breakfast: Le Macassar

www.ldvuk.com 27

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express From the 1920s to the ‘30s the carriages of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express played a significant role in the golden age of travel.

Today, every carriage has been lovingly restored to its former glory, recreating one of the finest luxury experiences the world has ever known.

Runs different routes, including one from Paris to Istanbul, which takes six days. Vintage carriages include tulip lights by Lalique as well as mahogany paneling inlaid with marquetry patterns.

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www.ldvuk.com 29

Chateau de Sadillac Dordogne Imagine being transported to a magical land called the Dordogne. A land of fairy tale castles, medieval villages, towns with narrow winding streets and ancient houses, vineyards producing fine Bergerac wines, painted caves and other sites that take you back to the beginning of man. Combine this with the rivers Dordogne and Vézère offering either tranquil, or exciting canoeing and country side so beautiful that it will take your breath away.

Exclusivity is guaranteed, as only you and your guests will live like French aristocrats in our charming Château, dating back to the 11th Century. The accommodation has luxurious bedrooms with en suite bathrooms, a living and dining room, large kitchen and a private bar will add to the comfort of your stay. Sipping your wine while watching the sun set from the terrace overlooking the golf course and vineyards or relaxing in the swimming pool at the end of the day will provide you the opportunity to reflect on the treasures you have seen that day and to anticipate the pleasures still to come.

The Château offers accommodation up to 15 guests, heated swimming pool and a Finnish sauna. A private 9 hole golf course, with attractive fishing lake, set in 8 acres of undulating fairways. The golf course, like the house and pool, is exclusive for you and your guests, no green fee or starting time. For keen golfers there are several other golf courses within easy reach.

The Château is situated in the heart of the Dordogne region, on the route of Santiago the Compostella, close to the charming town of Bergerac, renowned for its dedication to gastronomy, known to woo food and wine lovers. The staple food is duck, combined with all the local produce like walnuts, prunes, strawberries, truffles and foie gras, every meal enjoyed here, will be a memorable one. Wine tasting is a must, either at the local vineyards, or at our neighbours’, Chateau Monbazillac, one of France’s most respected sweet white appellations. It’s the ideal base for trips to the Lascaux Caves, the beautiful city of Bordeaux and Saint-Emilion, the oldest wine area of the Bordeaux region, all three of them listed a Unesco World Heritage Site.

Château de Sadillac is 15 minutes from Bergerac airport, with direct flights to the United Kingdom.

A fairy tale setting for a family holiday, or for celebrating a milestone event.

Please visit our website: www.chateau-de-sadillac.com

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The 19th century extravaganza

A visit to Waddesdon Manor demonstrates the power of blue sky thinking

Imagine creating a splendid mansion, having the vision, opportunity, wealth and connections to pull off a manor house that might become a significant part of the English landscape. What would it look like? What kind of style would you favour; would it be brutal and modern, or hark back to a more romantic and pastoral age?

Almost 140 years ago Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild (1839-1898) was a man with considerable ambition in this same vein, who must also have sat down one day to plan an impressive status symbol. Yet in this instance he took it much further than an idle daydream. The Baron went on to purchase Waddesdon Estate in 1874, when it was nothing more than agricultural land; a blank canvas upon which to leave a not inconsiderable mark and created the house which is still cherished and known as Waddesdon Manor.

Ferdinand nursed a desire to create a luxurious retreat (you see the idea of a retreat is nothing new).

He was not content to construct a modest bolt hole in the country but harboured a dream of constructing a property modelled on the French Loire châteaux model. Before he had even reached the age of 40 the foundation stone was laid and the plans of French architect Gabriel-Hippolyte Destailleur were being followed to the letter as building began.

architect is almost too fabulous to comprehend fully.

I admit I was immediately immersed in a fantasy world of sumptuous house parties and had in mind both the frivolity and egoism of The Great Gatsby and also the pathos and disappointment of The Remains of the Day; a heady concoction!

Better than celebrity magazines Part of the original Waddesdon vision was to design an elegant backdrop for the entertainment of important guests. These soirees came to be known as ‘Saturday to Monday’ house parties. Imagine the pomp and circumstance of the contemporary movers and shakers as they descended for the weekend to benefit from every modern convenience such as running water, central heating and electricity. The Baron’s well-chosen guest list would always include figures from the Prince of Wales’ social circle, significant political figures and those who had created a name in culture and now me, of course.

Linger and imbibe the unique atmosphere In fact I have to say, one visit to Waddesdon is really not enough; it is a property that tempts you to linger, to imbibe the highly personal atmosphere and truly experience what is more than a glimpse into a world that has all but vanished. This is certainly ‘Merchant The frivolity of Gatsby but the pathos of The Ivory’ territory and in fact the house is sometimes Remains of the Day used as a location for film work; so it is worth checkToday as visitors, just like me, stroll around the ing before you set off on a visit whether this may be sumptuous restorations which were carried out in the the case.

1990s and necessitated the manor being closed for 4 years, the ambition of the Baron and his appointed The National Trust was bequeathed the manor just

32

after the Second World War when James de Rothschild was suffering significant ill-health, had no descendants and the fashion for house parties was long gone. The monumental decision was made and 165 acres, the manor and all associated collections, of which there are many, were handed over. In addition a large sum of money meant the Trust was in possession of the largest endowment they had ever received.

Waddesdon is a treasured destination for thousands of visitors This extraordinary gesture means visitors can now enjoy Baron Rothschild’s vision and Waddesdon really has become a significant jewel in the National Trust’s crown and a treasured location for thousands of visitors. It seems fitting that it is no longer the preserve of the well-to-do but has now become a valuable resource, no matter what your own interest or passion.

A new take on Eventing Just looking at the events scheduled for 2013, Waddesdon has a new lease of life and can offer so much, to both British and international visitors. This year alone the truly mouth-watering and colourful spectacle of the De Jaeger Tulip Festival, which continues throughout April, attempted to compensate for the protracted winter we have suffered with its beautiful displays. There are Spring craft activity days, children’s tours of the house, hanging basket and rare plant days, food festivals, a Mustang car day, photography, weaving, a French market, Boden fashion

house clearance sale and of course walks through the beautiful gardens to enjoy.

If you are an art lover you can visit the exhibitions in the converted coach house or see the Aviary which was recently restored. This is aside from the house which will give more back the longer you spend inside.

Wicked desires unleashed at Waddesdon We all harbour the wicked desire to see how other people live and a visit to Waddesdon’s interior will keep your ‘nosey nature’ satisfied for quite some time it must be said. The treasures and trinkets, fine furniture, graceful dining room place settings, chandeliers are a feast for the eyes and the imagination.

It’s not just a case of look and see either as you can arrange a different kind of tour each time you pay a visit, whether that’s a new collection or loan, a tour of the wine cellars or gardens where you can enjoy a talk on the garden sculpture, water feature or just gain an informal insight into the gardens as a whole.

I particularly enjoyed walking through the grounds and relished the inspirational planting which is always stunning in different ways depending on season.

As you come away from this elegant property it takes an age to really appreciate all the sights and sounds that compose a visit to Waddesdon Manor. I find my thoughts straying, time and again and having made the pilgrimage, I have decided that next time I shall combine my visit with a stay in the Victorian lodge house within the grounds. Actually sleeping at the manor would be the perfect end to my fascinating glimpse into another world. www.ldvuk.com 33

South Africa and Rwanda The world renowned Shamwari Group has been a pioneering leader in wildlife safaris, conservation and hospitality for over 20 years, with three diverse properties in South Africa - Shamwari Game Reserve, Sanbona Wildlife Reserve and Jock Safari Lodge and two unique properties in Rwanda - Nyungwe Forest Lodge and Gorilla’s Nest Lodge.

For reservations, quote reference – La Dolce Vita Shamwari Group Central Reservations + 27 (0) 41 509 3000 E: reservations@shamwarigroup.com Ideal for family travel, Shamwari Game Reserve, the pride of the Eastern Cape, is one of the largest malaria-free Big 5 private game reserves in the region, a 45 minute drive from Port Elizabeth, forming a natural extension of the Garden Route offers 5 distinctive lodges, one Villa and the Shamwari Explorer Camp, an experiential 2 day walking safari with accommodation in mobile tents plus a new photographic safari. The Animal Rehabilitation Centre, Born Free Foundation and the Ian Player Rhino Awareness Centre are three unique aspects at Shamwari.

Regarded as the Cape’s premier wildlife destination, Sanbona Wildlife Reserve, also malaria-free, situated in the Karoo, three hours from Cape Town along Route 62, the longest wine route in the world, offers a unique Big 5 wilderness experience boasting three luxury lodges, Relaxation Retreats and the Sanbona Explorer Camp. A ‘boat safari’ on the Bellair Dam presents an exceptional perspective of the Big 5 wildlife, marine and birdlife whilst discovering this ancient land, once home of Khoisan hunters. The ‘Kids on Safari’ programme is ideal for families to learn about conservation.

Legendary Experiences in the Kruger are found at Jock Safari Lodge in the world renowned Kruger National Park just over a 5 hour drive from Johannesburg, or 1 hour from Skukuza and 2 hours from Kruger International Airport. Jock Explorer Camp is an experiential insight of a bygone era as experienced by the legendary Percy Fitzpatrick in the 18th century and the nearby Fitzpatrick’s Lodge is perfect for small groups and families.

In Rwanda enjoy two exceptional lodges, Nyungwe Forest Lodge, boasting 22 spacious luxury rooms, 1 two bedroom Suite and 1 Presidential Suite offering supreme comfort and style surrounded by ancient forests, an exceptional primate and rain forest experience. At the foothills of the Virunga Volcano range, Gorilla’s Nest Lodge overlooks the world famous Volcanoes National Park, Kinigi, where guests can witness the endangered mountain gorillas.

Committed to the conservation of our planet and wildlife, Shamwari Group is partnered with The Born Free Foundation and the Wilderness Foundation. Just one of the many projects includes the Forever Wild campaign, which raises funds and awareness for the survival of the African rhino.

Events

Ref # ADJ034/2013

Ref # SGH012/2013

La Dolce Vita Limited Voucher *

Sport

Horse Racing – Glorious Goodwood

Goodwood Racecourse

www.goodwood.co.uk

1-4 August

Golf – WGC Bridgestone Invitational

Firestone Country Club, Akron, Ohio, USA

www.worldgolfchampionships.com

1-4 August

Golf – Women’s British Open

St Andrews, Scotland

www.ricohwomensbritishopen.com

1-4 August

Swimming – World Aquatics Championships

Barcelona, Spain

www.fina.or

Your Shamwari Game Reserve experience will be comprised of three nights stay for two adults sharing, including accommodation in a luxury room, game drives and all meals. Extras such as beverages, transfers, flights, telephone, laundry, gift boutique and all additional expenses will be for your own account

1-5 August

Cricket – Third Ashes Test, England v Australia

Old Trafford, Manchester

www.ecb.co.uk

This voucher can be redeemed over week days between 01 May 2013 – 30 September 2013 or 01 May – 30 September 2014 subject to availability and is not transferable or redeemable for cash.

The voucher cannot be given to a 3rd party and once a booking has been made, the dates cannot be altered or changed.

1 August

CONGRATULATIONS!!!

PL

E

This voucher entitles you to experience the quality, excellence and distinction of Shamwari Game Reserve, situated ± 72km from Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, South Africa.

M

Your voucher can be redeemed by contacting our reservations office on +27 (0) 41 509 3000 or via e-mail at reservations@shamwarigroup.com. You will be required to send this voucher to our reservations office in order to secure your experience at the time of booking.

1-3 August

Prom 26: Henze/Stravinsky/Tippett

Royal Albert Hall, London

www.royalalberthall.com

1 August

Kim Criswell: A Celebration of the Music of Cole Porter

Cadogan Hall, London

www.cadoganhall.com

1-2 August

Freddie McGregor

Jazz Cafe, London

www.mamacolive.com/thejazzcafe

1-4 August

Ludovico Einaudi

Barbican, London

www.barbican.org.uk

2 August

Prom 27: Naresh Sohal/Rachmaninov/Tchaikovsky Royal Albert Hall, London

www.royalalberthall.com

Buckingham Palace Summer Opening

www.royal.gov.uk

We look forward to welcoming you to Shamwari Game Reserve 3 August-29 September

SA

With compliments

Shamwari Game Reserve Tel: +27 (0) 41 509 3000 Fax: +27 (0) 41 509 3001 Email: reservations@shamwarigroup.com Website: www.shamwari.com Date of issue: 05 June 2013

1-3 August

Expiry Date: 30 September 2014

Historic House Events

Buckingham Palace, London

Theatre, Opera&Dance Passion Play

Duke of York Theatre, London

www.passionplaylondon.com

1-3 August

The Hothouse

Trafalgar Studio 1, London

www.trafalgar-studios.co.uk

1-15 August

Swan Lake

Royal Opera House, London

www.roh.org.uk

1-18 August

Othello

Olivier Theatre, South Bank, London

www.nationaltheatre.org.uk

1-31 August

Relatively Speaking

Wyndham’s Theatre, London

www.delfontmackintosh.co.uk

Leandro Erlich: Dalston House

1-7 Ashwin Street, Dalston, London

www.barbican.org.uk

1-18 August

Summer Exhibition

Royal Academy of Arts Burlington House, www.royalacademy.org.uk Piccadilly, London

1-29 August

A Georgian Summer

Chatsworth House, Chatsworth, Bakewell, Derbyshire

www.chatsworth.org

1 August-1 September

Birth of a Collection: Masterpieces from the Barber Institute of Fine Arts

National Gallery, London

www.nationalgallery.org.uk

Patrick Caulfield

Tate Britain, Millbank, Westminster, London

www.tate.org.uk

1-4 August

* This is a sample voucher. For terms please refer to our subscription page nr 7.

Music

1 August-1 September

Art

www.ldvuk.com 41

2-24 August

Culture Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

Edinburgh, Scotland

www.edintattoo.co.uk

15-17 August

Money&Investments The Money Show 2013

San Francisco, USA

www.moneyshow.com www.eco.co.uk

15-26 August

Film4 Summer Screen

Somerset House, Strand, Covent Garden, London

www.somersethouse.org.uk

1-4 September

International Jewellery London

Earls Court 2, London

25-26 August

Notting Hill Carnival

Notting Hill, London

www.thenottinghillcarnival.com

10 September

MineSite Forum

The Brewery, Chiswell Street, London www.minesite.com

29 August-15 September

Portobello Film Festival

Notting Hill, London

www.portobellofilmfestival.com

12 September

Portfolio Adviser Expert Investor Alternative Investments

The Mayfair Hotel, London

www.portfolio-adviser.com

13-15 September

Kings Place Festival

Kings Place, King’s Cross, London

www.kingsplace.co.uk

15 September

Antiques, Collectors, 20th Century Art Deco Fair & Pop Up Vintage Fairs London

Alexandra Palace, London

www.alexandrapalace.com

Fashion 4-6 August Pure London

Olympia Grand, London

www.i2ieventsgroup.com

18-19 August

Fashion and Footwear Fair

Irish International Convention and Exhibition Centre, Dublin, Ireland

www.rds.ie

23-26 August

Marbella Fashion Week

Marbella, Spain

www.marbellafashionweek.eu

13-17 September

London Fashion Week

Somerset House, London

www.londonfashionweek.co.uk

Food&Drink

7-8 August

Bakewell Show

Bakewell

Property

11-12 September

Landlord & Letting Show

The Barbican Hall 2, London

www.landlordexpert.co.uk

17 September

Property Auction

Ferguson Suite, Premier Inn, Trafford Park, Manchester

www.eddisons.com

18 September

Property Auction

The Nicky Chapman Suite, Leeds United FC, www.eddisons.com Elland Road, Leeds

19 September

Landlord Property Investment Show

Cambridge City Hotel, Cambridgeshire

www.landlordzone.co.uk

19-22 September

Beijing International Property & Investment Expo

Beijing, China

www.beijingexhibition.com

Showground, Derbyshire

www.bakewellshow.org

1-11 August

9-11 August

Foodies Festival

Inverleith Park, Edinburgh

www.foodiesfestival.com

9-11 August

Whisky Fringe

Edinburgh

www.edinburgh.org

10-11 August

Cardigan River & Food Festival

Cardigan, South Wales

www.cardigan-food-festival.co.uk

13-17 August

The Great British Beer Festival

Olympia, Hammersmith Road, Kensington, London

www.olympia.co.uk

Home&Garden

David Bowie is

Victoria and Albert Museum, London

www.vam.ac.uk

1-14 August

Take Another Look

Museum of London Docklands, London

www.museumoflondon.org.uk

1-18 August

The Garden of England

National Maritime Museum and Royal Observatory, Greenwich, London

www.rmg.co.uk

1 August8 September

Extinction: Not the End of the World?

Natural History Museum, London

www.nhm.ac.uk

1 August8 September

Salgado's Genesis

Natural History Museum, London

www.nhm.ac.uk

Flower Show

RHS Garden Hyde Hall, Essex

www.rhs.org.uk

3 August

1 August-30 September

IncrEdibles

Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, Richmond, Surrey

www.kew.org

24-29 August

Sculpture Trail

RHS Garden Wisley, Surrey

www.rhs.org.uk

5-8 September

RHS Wisley Gardens Flower Show

RHS Garden Wisley, Surrey

www.rhs.org.uk

7 September

BBC Radio 4 Gardeners’ Question Time Summer Garden Party

Ness Botanic Gardens, Wirral

www.nessgardens.org.uk

1-4 August

Car Events

Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire

www.henleytownregatta.org.uk

3-9 August

Charlestown Regatta Week

Charlestown, Cornwall

www.charlestownregatta.co.uk

3-10 August

Cowes Week

Cowes, Isle of Wight

www.aamcowesweek.co.uk

9-12 August

Whitby Regatta

Whitby, North Yorkshire

www.whitbyregatta.co.uk

11 August

Rolex Fastnet Race

Plymouth Yacht Haven, Devon

www.fastnet.rorc.org

Classic Car & Bike Show

Billing Aquadrome, Northampton

www.billingaquadrome.com

3-4 August

Castle Hill Car Festival

Castle Hill, Devon

www.castlehillcarfestival.co.uk

9-11 August

Classic Motorcycle Festival 2013

Donington Park, Castle Donington, Derby

www.donington-park.co.uk

10 August

Bentley Drivers Club

Silverstone, Northamptonshire

www.silverstone.co.uk

14-18 August

Pebble Beach Concours D’Elegance

Pebble Beach, California, USA

www.pebblebeachconcours.net

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Regatta&Yachting Henley Town & Visitors' Regatta

1 August

3-4 August

Exhibitions

Country Shows New Forest & Hampshire Show

New Park, Brockenhurst, Hampshire

www.newforestshow.co.uk

3-4 August

National Country Fair

Borris House, Co Carlow, Ireland

www.nationalcountryfair.ie

4 August

Cheshire Game & Angling Fair

Peover Hall, Knutsford, Cheshire

www.cheshiregameandanglingfair.co.uk

7-8 August

Bakewell Show

Bakewell Showground, Bakewell, Derbyshire

www.bakewellshow.org

10-11 August

The Knebworth Country Show

Knebworth Park, Nr. Stevenage, Hertfordshire

www.knebworthhouse.com

www.ldvuk.com 43

Dust-covered passion

The 63-year old private owner of Old Liquors decided to sell his collection of over 5000 bottles of historic and rare spirits. The collector, who remarkably does not drink the precious elixirs himself, holds the world record for the largest private assortment of old liquors.

Bay van der Bunt (64), owner of World’s largest collection of Old Liquors.

LDV: Why do you sell the collection?

Bay van der Bunt: For practical reasons. My wife and I don’t have any children and will move to a smaller home in a couple of years. It is difficult to move such a large collection to a smaller home.

LDV: How did you start to collect?

Bay van der Bunt: I got a couple of hundred bottles from my father. About 35 years ago I started to collect in a serious way and visit auctions.

LDV: What makes these bottles so special?

Bay van der Bunt: Some bottles are the last remaining in the world.

LDV: How did you come to an amount of 8 million?

Bay van der Bunt: The price is determined at the moment that a bottle is sold somewhere in the world. It is comparable with the art market.

LDV: Where do you hope to find a buyer?

Bay van der Bunt: Probably it will be someone from Russia or China. There is a lot of interest in that countries and those people will pay the price without negotiating.

LDV: Do you find it hard to split up the collection?

Bay van der Bunt: It is a shame indeed, I prefer to sell the whole collection at once.

LDV: Where do you find somebody who is willing to pay the price?

Bay van der Bunt: That someone is already born and got the money in his pocket, he only doesn’t know me. That is about to change!

He unlocks the door and I follow him into a cool, faintly lit room with ancient beams and red tiles. Rows and rows of dusty bottles of cognac, armagnac, port, chartreuse and other liquors stand proudly together on the many shelves like an army of old friends, their heads dripping wax as if they’ve just emerged from a snowstorm. I can sense we’re in a special place.

Elixir of the gods “This is the world’s largest private collection of old liquors, among which the world’s oldest cognac from 1760”, the collector says proudly. “The most famous one? That’s the one from 1789 – the year the French Revolution started”, he beams. Cognac is a medieval town which bears the name of the famous wine-growing region where this ‘elixir of the gods’ of the same name has been created since the 17th century. All cognac may be brandy, but not all brandy is cognac. It has to come from a designated area of France by law – the Charente region near Bordeaux – which is divided up into six ‘crus’ – and has to be made according to strict, legal guidelines, ensuring that the 300year old production process remains unchanged. That means that it must be distilled twice in copper pot stills, the design and dimensions of which are also legally controlled. The resulting eau-de-vie, a French phrase which literally means ‘water of life’, is a colourless spirit containing about 70 percent or more alcohol. Next, it must age for at least two years in French barrels made from oak trees from the forests of Limousin or Tronçais before it can be called cognac. The final product is usually diluted to a 40 percent alcohol content with pure and distilled water. The age of the cognac is calculated as that of the youngest eau-de-vie used in the blend, which is usually of different ages.

This blending, or ‘marriage’, of different eaux-de-vie is important to obtain the complexity of flavours absent from an eau-de-vie from a single distillery or vineyard. Each cognac house has a master taster, a ‘maître de chai’ who is responsible for creating this delicate blend of spirits.

room. I sense that – for the collector – this has nothing to do with money. “It’s about passion”, he says, reading my thoughts, “and greed, maybe, but passion sounds so much better, doesn’t it?” When I ask him what his collection means to him, he smiles dreamily. “Look at that one.” He points out a – to me – inconspicuous bottle. “It’s from 1789, which means it started gathering dust in the year the French Revolution started, the year of the storming of the Bastille! It’s amazing that you can drink something that looks so dirty and old, coming from such a turbulent year; something that is more than 200 years old but still tastes so great. I love that contradiction. You know that you will never eat anything that old, do you? This bottle has stood in twenty or thirty cellars. Who was the previous owner? The people who picked the grapes were born 270 years ago. Who were they? Taste changes. Not only during a lifetime, also throughout the ages. The taste of cognac however, and its appreciation, have never changed and even after 220 years it is still a delicacy.

There’s nothing else man-made in the world that’s this old that you can eat or drink. That’s what makes it so unique.” Fact is: cognac would never have become so famous if everyone wasn’t in complete agreement about its consistent superb quality.

“Did you know that cognac is a Dutch invention?” he asks me.

“The French may not like it, but it is.” In the 17th century Dutch ships bought white wine in the French region of Charante, but found it didn’t keep well. They burned the wine to reduce its volume, producing ‘brandewijn’ or, literally ‘burnt wine’. It was also noticed that this brandy, traditionally kept in casks, improved with age and could be drank dry. At the end of the 17th century the inhabitants of Charente developed the second distillation. Cognac was born.

Passion

44

The collector points to an enormous bottle, covered in dust.

“That one is from 1795. Napoleon’s army took up to 20 or 30 of these bottles with them on campaign for their officers. It’s worth something between 100 and 150 thousand Euros.” I try, but fail to estimate the value of what I see on these shelves, but am too embarrassed to ask how much money’s worth there is in this

www.ldvuk.com 45

History: The legacy

of the fall of the Berlin Wall The scene is unforgettable: it is 9 November 1989, chaos and confusion reign, electrified when a tired and confused Günther Schabowski, a member of East Germany’s Communist Party Politburo, attempts to interpret hastily cobbled-together new travel laws for the assembled press: “We have decided today to implement a regulation that allows every citizen of the German Democratic Republic to leave the GDR through any of the border crossings.” It was to herald the definitive crumbling of the Berlin Wall.

Taken by surprise, journalists start to interject, and one asks Schabowski: “At once? When?

Schabowski reads from a piece of paper, a rambling statement that does not answer the all-important question.

So, again, the question: “When does it come into effect?”

huge pressure piled on the regime by revolutionary change in Hungary, plus the Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev informing GDR leader Erich Honecker that Soviet troops would not be used for internal repression.

Since those momentous scenes of 9 November 1989, Berlin is eminently a city transformed, though the legacy of the communist period remains in the city’s psyche, politics and the cityscape.

The Berlin Wall was started in 1961, at the height of the Cold War, which itself was a result of the catastrophe of the Third Reich and the Second World War. By 1960, West Germany was firmly ensconced in the democratic western camp, and it represented an enticing enough attraction to persuade hundreds of thousands of East Germans to leave the Sovietbacked regime. GDR leaders decided that the only way to stem the flow of migrants was to construct a gigantic wall, consequently shutting off West from East Berlin, dividing not just a city but also friends and families.

In its entirety, the Berlin Wall stretched for 112 kilometres around West Berlin, with a 43-kilometre wall splitting the city in two. By 1989 it had 302 observation towers, numerous floodlights, a concrete wall, wire fences, control strips, anti-vehicle trenches and patrols with dogs. Nevertheless, between 1961 and 1988 more than 100,000 East Germans attempted to escape across the border, resulting in more than 600 deaths, with around 136 shot by border guards or killed in another way by the regime. Today, remnants of the wall still remain, most famously at Bernauer Straße, which is now a memorial site, with adjacent viewing platform, from where one can better gauge the wall’s size and complexity.

An unsure Schabowski looks at his papers for help, and, clearly struggling, lands a blow that the Berlin Wall and the East German regime will never recover from: “It comes into effect, according to my information, immediately, without delay.”

Though confusion reigns for some minutes afterwards, the reply lights the touch paper for thousands to head for the Berlin Wall, to the West, to freedom: “Permanent exit can take place via all border crossings from the GDR to the FRG [West Germany] and

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West Berlin respectively,” he says.

It was a momentous, historic occasion, and when within an hour an international news agency reported bluntly that “the GDR is opening its borders” there was simply no going back.

Of course, the build up to these moments was preceded by increasingly large pro-democracy demonstrations around East Germany; and it came in the wake of

In addition to the physical disappearance of the wall, one of the most significant impacts of the fall of communism has been the relocation of the German capital from its Cold War location of Bonn to its historic location of Berlin. Concomitant with this has been the renovation and partial rebuilding of the German parliament, the Reichstag, which had been severely damaged during Allied wartime bombing raids, as well as by Soviet troops during the Battle of Berlin in 1945. Indeed, reminders of this time remain, with graffiti from Red Army troops evident in the building to this day. In a spirit of democracy and openness, the newly renovated Reichstag – designed by British architect Sir Norman Foster and opened for parliament in

1999 – is topped with a spectacular transparent cupola, which visitors can walk up to view the work of Germany’s elected representatives below.

With a far from dynamic local city economy, Berlin relies heavily on visitors, attracted to the city by its unparalleled history and its fine cultural offerings.

In recent years, various new museums have been created that deal with the Cold War and its legacy on the city, notably the DDR Museum, the Allied Museum, Checkpoint Charlie Museum (located near a former border crossing) and the museum at Hohenschönhausen, where the Soviets, then the East German regime, once held political prisoners.

Moreover, new architecture has changed the cityscape, particularly the Holocaust Memorial, designed by Peter Eisenman and the architecturally and content-rich Jewish Museum, designed by Daniel Libeskind. And there is the remarkable story of the Stadtschloss, the former Hohenzollern royal palace, which east German authorities tore down in order to build the Palace of the Republic, once home to the GDR parliament. Amid huge controversy, this was itself tore down in 2008, to make space for … a rebuilt Stadtschloss.

The city is, of course, packed with countless renowned museums and galleries, while it is also home to the Berlin Philharmonic, led by Britain’s Sir Simon Rattle. As rents rise, however, and the perceived inexorable process of ‘gentrification’ intensifies, many residents fear that the likes of the Kreuzberg area may lose their distinct edgy cool. But such disputes, whether about gentrification, economic travails, the Stadtschloss or the embarrassing years of delays on a new airport, reveal a city grappling with modern difficulties – issues that in their very nature highlight just how far Berlin has come since 9 November 1989.

That starling press conference, however, not only helped transform the city, it also transformed the life of Günther Schabowski: he became one of very few vocal critics from the former East German hierarchy to comprehensively accept the moral failings of the regime. “Almost everything we did was wrong,” he has said. Now in his 80s, he has recently moved from the east of the city to the west, citing ‘high rents’ as the principle reason.

Paul Wheatley

www.ldvuk.com 47

Diamonds: An Investor’s Best Friend?

Photography by Andy Barnham

The 20th century love affair with diamonds started with an advertising campaign which coined the phrase ‘a diamond is forever’, which was run by South African miner De Beers in 1948. Nowadays, with financial turbulence on every horizon, the popularity of diamonds is increasing as a sound investment as 48

well as an item of beauty. With this growth in popularity, naturally, comes a growth in value, and while the diamond has always been a hallmark of success, the diamond as a signifier of net worth is becoming more and more significant.

According to UK-based diamond authority WWW

Diamond Forecasts, rough diamond prices have increased by nearly a third since 2005. The firm predicts a further 20 percent increase in value between now and 2017, which is caused in no small part by demand from a growing emerging market of consumers in China and India. Appetite from these two hotspots already accounts for a fifth of global spend, according to data from miner Anglo American, and is set to grow to 28 per cent by 2016, or from US$23 billion to US$31 billion. The limited supply of this precious stone is also increasing prices as the demand grows.

“If demand were not constrained by supply, demand would reach 50 million polished carats by 2020, up from 26 million today,” said Richard Platt, managing director at WWW Diamond Forecasts.

Having worked closely in the legal world with all the big Italian fashion houses — Versace, Cavalli and Armani, to name a few, Milan-based lawyer John France had gained valuable insight into the world of high-fashion jewels. It was this, combined with an insight into the success and rapid growth of the diamond market, which prompted him to leave his desk job and start up a diamond jewellery broker, JF Diamonds.

“My clients often lamented the difficulties of sourcing reliable suppliers of fabulous diamond jewellery.

I saw my opportunity to sit on the other side of the desk,” said France. Although France’s roots lie in the Seychelles (he is in fact related to the president of the archipelago), France was educated at a British boarding school and then Oxford University, and has been based in Milan, on and off, for the last 14 years.

Away from his desk, France now spends his time sourcing the world’s most flawless white diamonds and statement coloured diamonds and has them crafted into one-off rings and necklaces that ooze

20th century glamour. These wondrous gems are sourced in the diamond mecca of Tel Aviv, designed in the fashion capital of Milan, and crafted in Valenza. Each piece is hand-crafted and customised; France will frequently fly to visit his clients to help create the perfect design. A single piece could take more than a year to create from start to finish, he said. Currently for sale he has an 18-carat white gold ring (Anello Grigio) with a 21.3-carat grey sapphire, 62 white diamonds and a total of 215 ice diamonds. This piece retails at £81,500. Meanwhile an 18-carat white gold choker (Collana) is made from 864 white diamonds weighing nearly 50 carats altogether. This is priced at an eye-watering £367,000.

His wealthy clients, unsurprisingly, hail from the well-known billionaire hotspots of Monte Carlo, Gstaad, Dubai and Moscow, where high net worth individuals have weathered the global crisis with barely a scratch. According to data from information provider Wealth-X, the world’s population of ultra-high-net-worth (UHNW) individuals (those with US$30 million in assets and above) grew slightly last year to 187,380 with combined global wealth of US$25.8 trillion. Wealth-X forecasts the UHNW population, particularly in countries such as diamond-hungry China and India, to accelerate.

While the long-term appeal of diamonds is clear, there are hurdles. Some buyers of diamonds are wary, due to the presence of fakes, and the lack of liquidity, and so diamonds are still not as readily accepted as an asset class as other commodities, said France. “The market is very un-transparent,” he agrees. But France maintains that as supply levels off and demand increases, their investment potential will become undeniable.

This is undoubtedly true when you consider that the last 25 years has seen diamonds of a carat doubled in value, according to the Rapaport Diamond Index (RDI). Five-carat-plus diamonds are now 250 percent higher in value, said the RDI. “Diamonds have shown steady growth over the last two decades, have a proven track record and have a limited supply against growing demand. And, of course, they look much better than a stock certificate,” said France.

www.ldvuk.com www.ldvuk.com 49 49

7%

RETURN ASSURED

Choose Cape Verde for a warm welcome and A hot property Investment

and sunshine guaranteed

A beach lover’s paradise, where the sun always shines and the people welcome you with a warm smile every time. It has to be Cape Verde.

Situated in the Atlantic Ocean off the west coast of Africa and just one hour south of the Canaries, Cape Verde is a tropical archipelago consisting of ten islands and five islets. It’s an idyllic location with endless sunshine cooled by gentle sea breezes and year round temperatures of around 25°C to 30°C.

An investment opportunity that combines a luxurious lifestyle of a Cape Verde property with a rewarding future.

With guaranteed sunshine all year round and tourism growing rapidly every year, now is the time to invest.

Contact us today for a guaranteed 7% p.a. return, plus the opportunity to discover and experience Cape Verde with a free holiday every year in the sun.

BY

THE

RESOR T

GROUP

For more details and our latest brochure

call 01332 387 818

or visit theresortgroupplc.com

• Luxurious properties at a 5-star Cape Verde Resort

• 7% p.a. return assured during construction

• Safe, secure and proven Investment Model

• On-going rental income - projected at 6-9%

• £10k for entry level investment

• Capital growth anticipated between 4-6% p.a.

P l u s f r e e C a p e Ve r d e h o l i d a y a c c o m m o d a t i o n e ve r y ye a r Terms & Conditions: Free accommodation offer is not available on £10,000 or £20,000 Fractions. The guaranteed return during construction is correspondent to 7% of the deposit amount. This is paid in monthly instalments for a maximum period of 3 years (36 monthly instalments). All rental returns and capital growth figures are projections only.

This unique and vibrant place serves up a charming blend of African and European culture, and was recently voted in the top 3 by Lonely Planet for ‘Must-Visit’ destinations and is frequently ranked amongst the top ten holiday destinations in the world by Expedia.

What’s more, Cape Verde boasts some of the best beaches in the world, famed for their pure white sand and crystal clear waters. In fact, Cape Verde provides the perfect holiday blend of endless sunshine, magnificent beaches and a naturally laid back ambience, resulting in a meteoric rise in tourism since 2000.

The formula for success is simple; stunning beaches, a welcoming culture, year-round sunshine and just over five hours from the UK, with direct flights from London, Manchester, Birmingham and Glasgow, as well as many other cities in Europe and beyond. With an increasing number of access routes

opening up, visitor numbers are set to continue to rise for many years.

In fact, tourism numbers have increased 115%* since 2000, and with high demand for quality accommodation outstripping current levels of supply, and this trend is set to continue for many years to come.

This means that demand for high quality accommodation far exceeds supply, which creates the perfect conditions for property investment. Property investors not only benefit from excellent long term rental yields, but the sort of capital growth that most other emerging markets can only dream about.

Property investment is protected by strict legislation, allowing only low-density and low-rise development projects to proceed. Not only does this preserve the original character of the Islands, it safeguards against over development which may lead to an excess of supply, thus protecting investors for the years ahead.

Therefore, with its year round climate and thriving tourism market, Cape Verde delivers the perfect economic and environmental conditions for a rewarding property investment.

*National Institute of Statistics of Cape Verde’’ www.ldvuk.com 51

Reindeer Antiques

Caribbean and Mediterranean Yacht Charters

The taste for lacquered and japanned furniture is currently enjoying a revival. These pieces bring colour and beautiful decoration to a room and can be used as a focal point in a minimalist interior.

Lacquered pieces will have been made in Asia; principally China and Japan and exported to Europe from as early as the 17th Century. Japanning is a European technique used to copy the effects of lacquer but it lacks the quality and definition of the finest lacquer pieces. The cabinet illustrated here was made in the late 17th Century in Japan and is beautifully decorated with fantastical landscapes which is typical of lacquered pieces. The slightly later stand is English and decorated with japanning to match. Prices for plain japanned pieces start at about £10,000 but the finest lacquered pieces can command close to a million pounds.

Some of the finest pieces of late Eighteenth Century furniture were decorated with paintwork. This decoration was applied by highly skilled émigré artists from the Continent and allowed more flamboyant and unusual decoration than the traditional method of decorating with wooden inlays. The most important immigrant painters during the Sheraton period were Kauffman, Cipriani and Zucchi . Seddon Sons and Shackleton produced the finest examples of painted furniture and documented pieces by them always command a premium. With painted furniture condition is even more important when considering value; untouched pieces are rare and highly sought after by collectors. Depending on condition and quality prices for painted furniture vary hugely from only a few hundred pounds to six figure sums.

Amazing Charters is a charter brokerage and we design individual yacht charters on catamarans, sailing, motor and mega yachts in the Caribbean and Mediterranean. Whether it is a multigenerational family vacation, romantic get-away or a corporate event, it is custom made to your needs and preferences. We have spent thousands of hours inspecting hundreds of yachts and interviewing the crew, giving us the knowledge to find the perfect solution for you. We invite you to step on-boarda crewed yacht

Reindeer Antiques 81 Kensington Church Street London W8 4BG Tel. 020 7937 3754 Email: london@reindeerantiques.co.uk Web: www.reindeerantiques.co.uk

They come in all sizes and prices and you don’t have to be royalty or a rock star to find one that suits your budget…but you will be treated like one!!! You will

be the only guests on the yacht, whether you are a party of 2 or 20, so unlike a cruise ship, you can plan your own itinerary and activities on a private yacht charter, and change them as you go.

And remember, this is all available with no experience required on your part!

Exploring in the British Virgin Islands, BVI is enjoyed by all agesIf you are a sailor, you can charter a bareboat with all the equipment and go exploring the Caribbean or the Med on your own boat. We make it an easy, hassle free process to charter a yacht and give you all the information. Especially in the British Virgin Islands (BVI), the navigation is easy and the many islands with lots of protected anchorages are a great place to start your first Caribbean bareboat charter.

LUXURY CREWED YACHT VACATIONS........explore, dream, relax!

Private crewed charter yachts are the best kept secret of the travel industry. Like luxury “Floating Boutique Hotels” they offer gourmet dining, 5 star service and comfortable accommodations at competitive rates.

Let your captain guide you from island to island while your private chef teases your taste buds.

All customized to your wishes and needs!

From £250/day/person all inclusive.

Contact Us:

and start the adventure! Sipping champagne in the Jacuzzi on your luxury yacht. As a stranger to sailing, you may never have considered a yacht charter or even know that it is possible.

However, you can charter a yacht, complete with captain and crew, who will also be your guides on your unforgettable journey. You can enjoy secluded Caribbean coves and bays or explore ancient ruins and charming towns in the Mediterranean or just relax, sipping a cocktail in the Jacuzzi on deck. There are thousands of fully crewed charter yachts around the world and they are more like “Luxury Floating Boutique Hotels” than anything else.

Are you creating a multi-generational family vacation, playing hidden Caribbean golf courses, cruising the Amalfi coast or exploring the Greek islands? Do you need the right settings for a corporate event, conference or retreat? The possibilities are endless and there is a perfect yacht and crew for everything.

Our personalized service will help you find the perfect yacht and crew for your vacation or event. Call us today!

AMAZING CHARTERS Tel: +1 704 257 4766 www.amazingcharters.com yachts@amazingcharters.com

Secret Treasures Fall/Winter Collection 2013/14

Possessing an expertise that has been ceaselessly honed since 1895, the brand Swarovski is synonymous with craftsmanship, precision, and innovation. From on-trend to timeless, Swarovski’s collections enhance the natural beauty of the contemporary woman, and bring out the best in her. A wide range of easy-to-wear jewelry pieces and accessories highlight her style, and add sparkle, a touch of glamour and a personal signature to her look.

For Fall/Winter 2013/14, Nathalie Colin has designed a collection named “Secret Treasures,” reminiscent of a journey. Inspired by the Silk Road, this collection is built around four legendary locations, each of which holds treasures of tradition and beauty. From China to the Himalayas and from India to Venice, “Secret Treasures” revisits emblematic elements with a skillful blend of modernity and sophistication. “As I was strongly influenced by my travels to Asia, China, the Himalayas, and India, I have a special connection with the inspiration of this collection. True admirer of the orientalist, explorer, writer, and adventurer, Alexandra David Neel, I imagined such a journey across continents and mountains transposed in today’s times,” explained Creative Director Nathalie Colin.

Swarovski demonstrates its mastery in jewelry techniques and crystal cutting. Settings, Pointiage®, pavé work, beading and embroideries are enhanced with exclusive cut crystal stones, Crystal Mesh, and Crystal Rock that give crystal a fascinating radiance, revealing a perfect mix of heritage and innovation.

From China, Swarovski has adopted the symbolism of yin and yang, illustrated by the Stone theme. Both luxurious and streamlined, this piece features sensual curves that are given ultra shine by pavé crystal work. Inspired by the trimmings of Chinese costumes, the Velour line surprises with its suppleness. The microfiber base material with a black and white color gradation is embroidered with crystals, while in the center, a large faceted crystal stone takes pride of place. The matching oversized earrings are a key jewelry trend this season. Their harmonious and feminine lines illuminate the face with a dark and captivating charm.

In the Himalayas, nature’s majesty can be felt. Mountains, forests, and glaciers leave a mineral imprint on

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creations with organic lines, of which the Vita line is a perfect example. Cut into a cabochon, the central crystal stone sees its contours highlighted by small tone-on-tone crystal stones, set by hand using the exclusive Pointiage® technique. Vita takes on frosty winter tones and ends itself to a range of looks, from the highly sophisticated to the classic.

An abundance of colors, silk with a thousand and one reflections, the richness of gold, and the wonder of precious stones: India’s influence leaves its ornamental and exuberant mark. By inviting the talented Shourouk to design some pieces for the collection, Nathalie Colin has initiated a new collaboration with the world of fashion. Shourouk is familiar with the company because she has used crystals on her own creations in the past, and has now designed an imposing necklace Swarovski by Shourouk, that is nonetheless flexible and mounted on cord. With its bib form embroidered with crystals, this necklace imparts sophistication to any outfit, day or night.

Venetian inspiration floats a veil of baroque mystery over these highly refined pieces, which evoke the magnificence of palaces and colors shrouded in the mist. The large Venetie cuff plays on opulence in rose-gold plated metal, richly decorated with a blue crystal cabochon, pearls, and baguette-cut crystals. With interlacing chains in black PVD, the Vermeil cuff exemplifies the spectacular side of Venice and adorns the wrist with a modern lace in strong, graphic lines. In the center, a large cabochon entirely covered with hand-applied crystal stones catches the eye, while other crystal details add an elegant touch of gold.

From purity to exuberance, the “Secret Treasures” collection delivers a range of offerings that allow women to mix and

match their accessories, for a special occasion or an everyday look. “We live in a time when adaptability is key. Therefore, accessories must become more versatile. This is the guiding principle by which we design jewelry and accessories that will accompany women in their everyday lives,” says Nathalie Colin. With a winter palette, warmed by rays of sophisticated colors, the collection confirms Swarovski’s great commitment to precision, re-invention, modernity, and refinement.

Stone Reversible pendant with one side in clear crystal pavé, the other side is in rhodium plated.

Velour Pendant with large central faceted crystal stone surrounded by a metallic chain on a microfiber chain embroidered with crystal stones.

Vita Pendant featuring central cabochon cut crystal stone surrounded by small tone-on-tone crystal stones, set in Pointiage® technique.

Swarovski by Shourouk Necklace featuring multicolored crystals on black satin rope cord.

Venetie Long cuff in rose gold plating featuring a large central /9 oval cut faceted crystal stone, baguette cut and pear shaped crystals.

Vermeil Large cuff with interlaced chains in black PVD featuring a cabochon covered with hand-applied crystals.

In 1895, Daniel Swarovski, a Bohemian inventor and visionary, moved to the village of Wattens, Tyrol in Austria, with his newly-invented machine for cutting and polishing crystal jewelry stones. From this beginning that revolutionised the fashion world, Swarovski has grown to be the world’s leading producer of precision-cut crystal for Fashion, jewelry and more recently lighting, architecture and interiors. Today, the company, still family-owned and run by 5th generation family members, has a global reach with some 26,100 employees, a presence in over 120 countries and a turnover in 2011 of 2.22 billion euros.

Swarovski comprises two major businesses, one producing and selling loose elements to the industry and the other creating design-driven finished products. Swarovski crystals have become an essential ingredient of international design. Since 1965 the company has also catered to the fine jewelry industry with precision-cut genuine gemstones and created stones. Showing the creativity that lies at the heart of the company, Swarovski’s own brand lines of accessories, jewelry and home décor items are sold through more than 2,200 retail outlets worldwide.

The Swarovski Crystal Society has close to 300,000 members across the world, keen collectors of the celebrated crystal figurines. And in Wattens, Swarovski Kristallwelten, the multi-media crystal museum, was opened in 1995 as a celebration of Swarovski’s universe of innovation and inspiration.

SWAROVSKI.COM

www.ldvuk.com 55

Summer Trends K

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ATHERINE HOOKER WAISTCOAT. In pale rose pink twill lambswool, the Alexander waistcoat is perfect for the transitional weather. Made to measure with exquisite attention to detail, the soft blush shade and curved hem put a feminine spin on this often masculine of basics. Wear it alone or over a roll neck sweater. Available custom-made from Katherine Hooker, prices start at £395.

KNY SATCHEL BAG. This sixties style handbag in high quality leather is a great late summer buy. The perfect size for everyday use it has three pockets inside and a secure zip fastening.

Cornflower blue can be worn with every shade from pastels to black. The removable strap gives you extra carrying options. Available from Daniel Footwear, £249.

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ADELEINE THOMPSON CAPE. The oversized cape is the cover-up of the season, after being spotted on the AW13 catwalks of Hermes, Donna Karan and Vera Wang. This one, made from a cosy wool/cashmere mix, is both elegant and warm. Team it with slim fitting trousers for a polished silhouette. Available from Madeleine Thompson, £419.

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ICHAEL KORS LOAFER. The Michael Kors Printed Hamilton Loafer is the perfect wardrobe update for the new season. Sturdy yet smart, the shoe is made from printed calf leather and can be worn with trousers or skirts. For added comfort, they feature a padded leather insole, whilst the gold hardware adds pizazz. Available from Daniel Footwear, £120.

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HANEL GLASSES. Don’t underestimate the power of the right frames; they can be as much a fashion accessory as your handbag. These designer Chanel glasses feature an elegant tortoiseshell frame which is complimentary for more mature skin tones. The shape is perfect for oval or heart shaped faces. Available from myoptique.com, £278.

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UCILE KIMONO. Louis Vuitton, Missoni and Prada all showed nightwear looks on their autumn ’13 catwalks with forties inspired boudoir style and loosely tied robes. This pure silk georgette Kimono is edged in the finest British lace. Too pretty to be confined to the house, try wearing it as evening wear over a black top and trouser. Available from Lucile, £499.

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AN CLEEF & ARPELS EARRINGS. The hand-crafted Alhambra collection has featured various symbols of luck since 1968. The Tiger’s Eye, used to make the butterflies in these drop earrings, is one of the chatoyant gemstones. Known as a protector, Tiger’s Eye is said to be beneficial for health and spiritual well-being. Available from Van Cleef & Arpels, £4,700.

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UCIE CAMPBELL DIAMOND RING. This diamond ring from Bond Street jeweller Lucie Campbell is a real statement piece suitable for the most discerning of tastes. Made from 18ct yellow gold it has a 1.45ct fancy yellow centre diamond which shines brighter than the sun. Every woman’s dream. Available from Lucie Campbell, £19,000.

LD LADIES REBELLION FOX SCARF. After learning her trade on Savile Row, French born Karst set up Old Ladies Rebellion to prove that elegance and style defies generational differences. She produces a range of quirky printed washed silk scarves, including this unusual fox scarf square. Available from Old Ladies Rebellion, £80.

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ADELEINE THOMPSON SUMMERBRIDGE SWEATER. An easy to wear sweater in 100% cashmere, this classic piece

by Madeleine Thompson comes in a range of colour ways including pinks, greys and blacks.

Wear it with smart trousers or a fitted pencil skirt for a more contemporary look. Available from Madeleine Thompson, £324. www.ldvuk.com 57

10 high-end luxury gadgets JAEGER-LECOULTRE MASTER GRANDE TRADITION GYROTOURBILLON 3 JUBILEE WATCH - P.O.R

B&W A7 WIRELESS MUSIC SYSTEM - £699

Taking several design cues from pocket-watches of the 19th century, this breathtaking timepiece is guaranteed to attract attention and turn heads thanks to a Flying Gyrotourbillon that appears to float in a weightlessness space. Equipped with a spherical balance-spring, the watch also features a chronograph with instantaneous digital display that is activated by a monopusher. Further exceptional details such as dauphine style watch hands, alligator leather strap, platinum case and silvered dial reinforce Jaeger-LeCoultre’s commitment to outstanding quality and refinement.

Known for creating superior audio solutions with stunning design and impeccable sound quality, you can be guaranteed that any Bowers & Wilkins product is of the highest quality. The A7 wireless music system does not disappoint, with a simplistic yet sleek design complemented by the latest in speaker technology. Able to wirelessly stream lossless audio or MP3s from your smartphone, tablet, laptop or even computer, the A7 has been created with convenience in mind. Featuring a 6” Kevlarreinforced subwoofer and five dedicated audiophile Class D amplifiers, this particular unit delivers rich bass and an extremely natural sound.

GARIA MONACO GOLF CART - P.O.R

BIOLITE CAMPSTOVE - £150

Perhaps the ultimate golf accessory, the Garia Monaco is the ideal form of transportation for a leisurely and relaxing round at your local club. This street legal golf cart is available as a 2-seater, 4-seater or roadster, with a maximum speed of 25mph and a range of up to 40 miles per charge depending on conditions. Notable features of this stylish and practical buggy include automotive style shocks and springs for a smooth ride, digital display containing driver information as well as plenty of storage for clubs, scorecards and other accessories. A choice of three exterior colours and three interior styles are available.

Although the BioLite CampStove was created for the great outdoors, this environmentallyfriendly gadget is perfect for those nippy summer evenings in the garden or by the beach.

Fuelled by twigs, pinecones and wood pellets instead of polluting petroleum gas, this innovative device can act as a campfire for friends and family to gather round or be used to cook food.

What’s more, heat from the fire is converted into electrical energy, enabling you to charge gadgets outside via a handy USB connection. Its compact form is great for transportation, while its simple design is far from unpleasant.

LEICA M CAMERA - £5,100

WEBER SUMMIT S-670 BBQ - £2,250

While this camera may look like it has come from a bygone era, the Leica M’s highly advanced picture-taking technology delivers stunning photographic results. Its aesthetically pleasing design makes it stand out from the crowd, while unique retro qualities are easy to interact with. The device’s image Maestro processor and 24 megapixel CMOS sensor ensures picture quality remains superb in all conditions. A high-capacity 1800 mAh lithiumion battery lasts for an eternity and a splash-proof full-metal body manufactured from one piece of tough magnesium alloy is extremely durable.

With the great British summer almost upon us, garden parties and barbeques will soon become a regular occurrence up and down the country. However, the Weber Summit S-670 is anything but ordinary, as this deluxe barbecue is the ultimate in outdoor cooking. Featuring six stainless steel burners with integrated sear station, tuck-away rotisserie, plentiful storage for tools and tableware as well as illuminated control knobs and handle lights for those balmy evenings, the culinary and entertaining possibilities are endless. Built to exacting standards, the Summit also comes with a 25-year limited warranty.

JURA GIGA 5 COFFEE MACHINE - £3,750

VUZIX WRAP 1200VR VIDEO EYEWEAR - £430

Coffee machines are becoming an increasingly popular fixture in most households, however the Jura Giga 5 doesn’t deliver your standard fix of caffeine. With 19 individually programmable speciality coffees available, you can be sure of a unique and distinctive blend. Featuring two heating systems and two pumps, different drinks can be made simultaneously. However, you’ll hardly notice the machine is in operation thanks to ultra-quiet ceramic disc grinders. The Giga 5’s elegant brushed finish will be a welcome addition to any kitchen too.

Bringing visual entertainment to life, Vuzix’s virtual reality eyewear is a spectacular and immersive way to view video content. Resembling a standard pair of sunglasses, the Wrap 1200VR creates an expansive 16:9 widescreen 75-inch display right in front of the user’s eyes. Even though the device can be worn over most styles of prescription glasses, left and right eye focal adjustment means this is not usually necessary. Detachable high-quality noise-isolating stereo earphones and compatible connectivity to a variety of media devices including smartphones, tablets and video game consoles facilitate numerous entertainment options.

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ZEAL OPTICS SKI GOGGLES - FROM £300

NEST THERMOSTAT - £150

Who knew ski goggles could be so advanced? Zeal Optics range of eyewear solutions combine incredible technology with unrivalled comfort and visibility. For those interested in documenting their next trip to the mountain, Zeal’s HD Camera Goggles are able to capture 1080p & 720p HD quality video and 12 megapixel HD photos through a 170-degree wide angle lens that is barely even noticeable. If you’d prefer to receive detailed information about distance travelled, altitude, temperature and position, the Z3 GPS Goggles feature an integrated view-finder that displays all your stats on a 16:9 widescreen.

Although it may seem unusual to have a heating control device on a list of luxurious and extravagant gadgets, the Nest Thermostat would be a thoroughly impressive addition to any home. From the creator of the iPod comes an intuitive and unique household item which aims to integrate itself into the user’s life. Using an array of sensors, sophisticated algorithms and the processing power of a computer, Nest will gradually learn about the movement of inhabitants and surrounding conditions to create that perfect room temperature.

A smartphone app and online remote control facilities allow adjustments to be made at any time.

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www.myconiancollection.gr www.myconiancollection.gr

The Leading Leading Hotel Hotel Experience Experience on on Mykonos Mykonos The

The World Greatest Hotels: The Milestone Hotel As quintessentially English as rain at Wimbledon and afternoon tea with scones and cucumber sandwiches, The Milestone Hotel is the very epitome of British luxury.

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It is steeped in history yet embraces up-to-theminute technology in its rooms, is classically styled yet with a hint of quirkiness and boasts service that manages to be second-to-none and unobtrusive at the same time.

When we arrive, the rain in London is torrential. But not a drop touches our heads. When our taxi pulls up to The Milestone, in the heart of Kensington, doormen wearing the hotel livery of green and gold rush out wielding huge matching umbrellas and usher us through the polished brass and glass doors.

We’re allocated a butler for our stay who whisks us straight to our suite. We’re staying in the Mistinguett.

Named after the 1920s queen of the Paris music hall, it is a bit of a departure from The Milestone’s more traditionally styled rooms with its hues of bright red and silver. But, with 16 original artworks on the walls, it manages to stay just the right side of brassy.

It’s just one of The Milestone’s individually-designed suites. On our way to breakfast in Cheneston’s restaurant, named after the old way of spelling Kensington, our butler lets us take a peek into the hotel’s only grand master suite, The Tudor Suite. Recently refurbished, to give it a fresher, more calming feel, the suite boasts a clutch of impressive architectural details including three-metre high ceilings with elaborate Victorian stucco plasterwork and a minstrels’ gallery with a putti relief by the sculptor Sir George Frampton, who is best known for his statue of Peter Pan in Kensington gardens.

From here, you can look down on the suite’s separate private salon with its cosy living flame fire for cooler months and its period-style wooden panelling.

A gold four-poster bed shipped over to London from Sotherby’s in New York provides the centrepiece in the sleeping area. Antique furniture and original paintings sourced from the finest auction houses around the world add to a feeling of pure opulence, and ornate chandeliers, custom-made ivory silk and Savoir bedding provide the finishes touches.

Such attention to detail is perfectly fitting in a hotel which is simply dripping with history. Taking its name from the old cast iron milestone that stands in its original position beside the hotel, The Milestone began life as Kensington House, which was built

around 1689 and first occupied by Foot Onslow, a commissioner of excise under William III. George Davenport, who claimed to be Shakespeare’s grandson, then took up residence before Kensington House passed to Lady Susan Belasye, mistress to James II. In the mid 18th century, Count Peter Grigorevich Chernyshev, the Russian Ambassador to London lived there before it was used as an academy for young gentlemen and a Jesuit school numbering the future French King Louis Phillippe as one of its ushers.

From 1830, Kensington House was turned into a private lunatic asylum before it was replaced by a second mansion, built by the founder of Leicester Square, Baron Albert Grant. In the 1880s, it was transformed into the two houses which make up the present day Milestone.

In 1986, the hotel was badly damaged in a mysterious fire, which took three hours to bring under control.

The once-majestic building deteriorated following the blaze until, in 1998, it became part of the Red Carnation Hotel collection.

By the following year, the Milestone had been fully restored to its original architectural splendour with www.ldvuk.com 63

45 bedrooms, 12 suites and six two-bedroom apartments.

The Milestone’s charms do not, however, solely lie within its past. It has a lot to offer present-day guests.

Cheneston’s Restaurant is transformed for lunch and dinner as the green checked breakfast tablecloths come off and are replaced with pristine white linen and sparkling glasses.

Priding himself on sourcing the very best seasonal ingredients from around the British Isles, chef Kim Sjobakk creates such delights as pan-roasted West Coast scallops and hand chopped sirloin of native Angus Beef withCafé de Paris butter.

Horseriding-themed The Stables Bar, named after its original use as a carriage house, offers a club-like atmosphere where you can enjoy light meals and Markus the bartender’s famous cocktails. The Art Deco-styled Conservatory is a great spot for pre-theatre drinks and the Park Lounge, with its open fireplace and sink-into armchairs is just right for afternoon tea.

A member of The Tea Guild, which represents establishments dedicated to brewing and serving tea to the very highest standards, the Milestone’s afternoon tea menu starts off with traditional tea complete with finger sandwiches, warm freshly-baked scones served with Devonshire clotted cream and homemade preserves as well as a scrumptious selection of éclairs, cupcakes and macaroons. We opt for the traditional menu but, for chocoholics, the chocolate afternoon tea has just been introduced with brownies, chocolate scones and fondue. You can even enjoy afternoon tea in Kensington Gardens, which the Milestone will serve up for you from traditional wicker picnic baskets.

When you feel the need to work off some of your indulgences, there are gym, sauna and resistance swimming pool facilities. Private pilates and yoga sessions can also be arranged in the gym or in the larger suites. If that all sounds like too much hard work, there is an array of pampering, soothing, relaxing and rejuvenating treatments on offer at the spa.

For those who prefer the privacy of their own bedroom,

the Milestone can organise massage, reflexology, aromatherapy, facials, manicures and pedicures 24-hours a day. Butler service is also round-the-clock and there’s a chauffeur-driven Bentley on hand to take you to see the city’s sights.

Our butler tells us there is a very high return rate among guests. And, it’s certainly easy to see why.

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The Milestone been showered with prizes as a result of its “no request too large, no detail too small” philosophy. Many awards have come along the way with, of course, an Award for Excellence from the Tea Guild for those outstanding afternoon teas.

Now, tea for two anyone?

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place for a luxury Algarve getaway. Guests can take full advantage of the numerous outstanding leisure facilities: from the exclusive and fun filled children’s Kangaroo Club and tennis courts, to 3 bars and restaurants, a heated outdoor swimming pool and numerous massage and beauty treatments. There is also an exclusive area on Vale do Lobo Beach for hotel guests… and the hotel has exclusive access to one of Europe’s top-quality golf courses - San Lorenzo.

In fact, Dona Filipa Hotel’s San Lorenzo Golf Course is one of the most exclusive golf courses in the world. It was designed by US golf course architects Joseph Lee and Rocky Roquemore and has been consistently voted one of the best in Europe for over 25 years.

Dona Filipa Hotel

The course is located within the protected Ria Formosa nature reserve and estuary, and in addition to the traditional Algarve pinewoods, San Lorenzo boasts fairways that run alongside saltwater marshes, freshwater lagoons and the stunning Atlantic ocean. A favoured haunt of golfing professionals, seasoned amateurs and enthusiastic beginners, San Lorenzo Golf Course guarantees great golf and even greater memories.

Vale do Lobo, Algarve, Portugal

F

ive hundred years ago the seas and oceans of Europe were bustling with the exploits of the world’s finest pioneers. Magellan, da Gama, Dias, Cabral and a swathe of their Portuguese counterparts cut a dash from the Renaissance to the Elizabethan age… advancing outwards to Brazil, Japan and the New World. Up until the late 1950s though, the traffic was still going in the same direction… outbound.

Dona Filipa Hotel

After celebrating its 45th year in business this year, the hotel is continuing to go from strength to strength… consistently attracting new customers looking for the ultimate in Algarve luxury, along with retaining a client base that has been staying at this 5-star paradise since the 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s and 00s.

Positioned just 200m away from the stunning Vale do Lobo beach in the heart of the Algarve, Dona Filipa Hotel is just short drive from Faro International Airport and is surrounded by lush golf courses, pinewoods and the breathtaking vistas of the Atlantic Ocean. Catering for families and golfers alike, Dona Filipa Hotel is the ideal

If, like some of Portugal’s most illustrious countrymen, you’re looking to do some exploring of your own, take a look at what Dona Filipa Hotel can offer you this year.

They can guarantee you won’t be disappointed.

San Lorenzo Golf Course

Vale do Lobo beach

For more information and to book, contact; Dona Filipa Hotel,Vale do Lobo, Algarve, Almancil, 8135-034, Portugal Tel: +351 289 357 223 Fax: +351 289 357 201 Email: donafilipahotel@jjwhotels.com donafilipahotel.com

However, by the time the first Portuguese golf course was opened in 1966, the tide was beginning to turn and the Algarve was suddenly regarded as the smart choice for a luxury European vacation. Then two years later, the 5-star Dona Filipa Hotel opened its doors for the first time.

For the past 45 years, the hotel has been delivering the highest standards of luxury to a steady stream of guests and pushing the boundaries of guest satisfaction with every passing year.

A Member of JJW Hotels & Resorts jjwhotels.com

Suite bedroom

The finest sailing in the World La Gomera is still a relatively unknown Canary Island even though it was Christopher Columbus’s last port of call before he discovered America and it has a stunning National Park in it’s interior that was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1986.

One of the other ‘secrets’ of la Gomera is that it offers some of the finest sailing in the world, for beginners as well as the more experienced sailor.

The geographical position of the Canaries means that there are generally excellent winds for sailing. The North Easterly trades that once took Columbus to America funnel through the islands creating what are known as Wind Acceleration Zones. This means that even with fairly light prevailing winds, you can still find enough wind for an excellent sail. There is also plenty of marine life to see as the area around south west Gomera is designated a Special Area of Conservation by the Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society (WDCS).La Gomera is 28 degrees North of the equator in the sub tropics which give the island very agreeable average temperatures of 21 degrees in winter and 28 degrees in summer. The island still retains

it’s Canaries character and unlike it’s larger neighbours, hasn’t suffered the ravages of mass tourism, even though it is only a short transfer from Tenerife’s main (south) airport. You won’t be able to find a full English breakfast or a pint of best bitter on the island, but you will be able to sample really excellent, locally produced food and wine.

The centre of San Sebastian, the capital of La Gomera, has changed little since Columbus’s ships were anchored in the bay. The Count’s tower, the Church Of The Assumption – where the members of the expedition were blessed, along with the Well Of Aguada – where the water that baptised America was drawn, have survived to testify to the Discoverers of America’s passage through the island toward the unknown in 1492.

www.canarysail.com/malta – Sailing holidays in Malta

Discover Malta Relaxing sail cruising holidays

Need a break? Join us on one of our sail cruises around the beautiful and historic island of Malta.

Enjoy one of our skippered sail cruising holidays around historic Malta or to the enchanting Italian islands of Lampadusa, Pantellaria or Sicily. You’ll experience relaxed, calm sailing conditions in the warm southern mediterranean. We offer own cabin privacy to couples or individuals and exclusive hire to groups or families.

Our professional skippers pride themselves in their attention to detail to ensure your sailing holiday experience exceeds expectations.

For more information please contact Jim or Vicki on 01252 837648, visit our website at: www.canarysail.com/malta or email: sales@canarysail.com

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Venice & Adriatic Treasures Indulge yourself with an extravagant expanse of purest relaxation, with days empty of obligations and full of opportunities. Surrender to creature comforts and concentrated coddling, from soothing in the Spa to snoozing in the sun, reading for enjoyment to re-learning the joys of gracious conversation.

THE SEABOURN DIFFERENCE “The Art of Delight”

“I felt as though a friend had invited me to sail on his private yacht”

• Intimate ships with just 104 or 225 suites • Unique itineraries to must-see cities and hidden gems where larger ships can’t go.

• All dining venues are complimentary with gourmet dining experiences that rival the finest restaurants anywhere - dine when and with whom you wish.

Rovinj, Croatia

• Complimentary welcome champagne and in-suite bar stocked with your preferences.

Rise early, sleep late, just as you please. Work out in the gym, or take another nap. Try everything on the menu. Lose track of time, to your advantage, For once in your life, take your time. On board your exclusive Seabourn enjoy a superior level of personal service, gourmet cuisine and spacious, all-suite accommodations, as well-as an open bar with complimentary wines, spirits and champagne.

• Spacious, all-suite accommodations with sweeping ocean views - many with verandas.

• Open bar throughout the ship, and fine wines poured at lunch and dinner.

• Tipping is neither required nor expected, service simply to delight you.

• Intuitive, gracious service provided by a staff passionate about pleasing our guests.

Venice & The Adriatic Treasures Seabourn Spirit for 10 Nights - Selected dates from June to September 2013

Ancona, Italy

Venice - Ancona - Day at Sea - Fiskardho - Katakolon - Kerkira - Scenic Cruising Bay of Kotor - Kotor - Split - Rovinj - Venice (Overnight)

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Offers & upgrades are subject to availability. All fares are based on Cruise only. No fees apply to credit or debit card payments and we do not charge booking fees. The prices shown are per person based on the lead in suite grade, based on twin occupancy (unless otherwise stated) and apply to new bookings only. *Prices and availability vary by date. Please also call us for details of our price guarantee or refer to our website. All reservations are subject to Seabourn’s terms & conditions as per their most recent brochure. We are a retailer on behalf of ATOL holder 6294 in respect of Seabourn Cruise Line. E&OE.

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When suggesting this cure, I’m not certain that his doctor had quite such an adventure in mind, but the inexperienced Freud attacked the challenge with gusto.

Knox-Johnston put him in charge of victualing – and was left aghast when two lorries turned up on the quayside, one filled with every possible culinary delight, and the other with case upon case of complimentary wines. Between them, the lorries exceeded the length of the boat, and it had completely escaped Clement’s mind as to where to store it all. He was crestfallen at being told to send it all back.

Despite, or perhaps because of the shortage of rations, Knox-Johnston and his crew were first to complete the 3,600-mile distance, none the worse for wear. Indeed the ruddy-faced Clement, then in middle age, thrived on the experience, and spent the rest of his life joking about sea air and the deprivations of such travel.

Francis Chichester, Knox-Johnston and Chay Blyth were the pioneers who showed us all that if you can sail round the world singlehanded, then a group can certainly take to the seven seas, and nowadays, do it in a great deal of comfort.

In January, FI television pundit Eddie Jordan and his family set out from Antigua to do just that, aboard his new yacht Lush, within a fleet of 27 other yachts on a 16-month circumnavigation called the Oyster World Rally. “This is going to be a fantastic experience.

I have more air miles than you could imagine, but to sail around the world is going to be the biggest adventure of them all. It is full of unknowns but that is all part of the attraction. I’m just so thrilled about the whole thing,” he told well-wishers on the dockside.

Unlike Knox-Johnston, this flotilla is following the sun, steering well clear of danger zones like Cape Horn. For them, it is the Panama Canal, the delights of Galapagos and other Pacific paradises before heading to the Great Barrier Reef, round the top of Australia and a party in Bali. The fleet then set a course west for Cape Town to be there in time for Christmas, before heading across the Atlantic for the Rio carnival, and onwards to the Caribbean for a final regatta in April 2014.

The idea of ‘selling up to sail’ has been a popular one with middleaged mavericks, ever since Jimmy Cornell, a champion of ocean cruising, came up with the idea of organising a migratory winter

Time for a new hobby; ever been tempted to Sail?

It was the delightfully dole-faced Clement Freud who first suggested to me that a sea voyage might be good for your health. The culinary clown had just flown in to Cape Town to join his sailing friend Robin Knox-Johnston for a race across the Atlantic to Rio de Janeiro.

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cruise from the Mediterranean to the Caribbean. That was back in 1986, and the event, known as the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC), has been a sell-out ever since. Last November, more than 200 mainly family crews shed off the constraints of depression and recession to embark on the adventure of a lifetime. The 2,800 mile crossing takes 15-21 days and a lot of planning, but thereafter lies the opportunity of a winter cruise through the West Indies, a summer in New England, the wonders of the Pacific, or even a sail down to the Antarctic.

“It is a great event – one of the best experiences of my life,” says Max Klink who sailed his yacht Caro in last winter’s ARC. “The event is for everyone: families with children, cruising couples, people with big budgets, and those with the most modest boats.

It’s about friendships made ashore during the two weeks of pre

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departure in Las Palmas, which are then continued during the daily radio net when at sea. It’s about arriving in Saint Lucia to be greeted on the dock with a rum punch or chilled beer; it’s knowing that you have achieved something fantastic – crossing an ocean in a small boat.”

And it is not just for the macho. Patricia Darling, a vet from Chichester, hung up the gauntlet gloves to take her two children Jillian and Alice on a University year-out cruise aboard the family Southerly 42 cruising yacht, aptly named Triple D of Chidham. “The only time we could have done with a man around, was mid-way across when none of us could open the jar of guacamole” jokes Patricia, who has now returned to calving cattle knowing that her own offspring are starting adult life with the best possible grounding.

Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, is now the Pied Piper of sailing, encour-

aging those with a sense of adventure to take part in his Clipper Round the World Race. Starting from Southampton at the end of this Summer, the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race is the only event of its type. Anyone, even if they have never stepped on a boat before, can join the adventure and circumnavigate the world in an eleven month-long marathon. This is the only race in the world where individuals can sign up for a berth in one of 12 identical, 70-foot, racing yachts and with the support of a professional skipper, sail safely around the globe.

It’s a race where taxi drivers rub shoulders with chief executives, vicars mix with housewives, students work alongside bankers, nurses vie with vets and doctors team up with rugby players. It’s an experience designed to change people’s lives and fulfil dreams.

The cost of a berth is £45,000, - a little more than £1 per mile and covers full training, food and a set of ocean oilskins.

You can of course slum it in a swing hammock and eat bully beef, but today’s yachts are very much home-from-home with full air conditioning, wine coolers and washing machines, surround-sound systems, and every luxury.

I can’t wait to retire!

If you have yet to take the plunge but would like to try sailing there are several sailing schools around the Country happy to show you the ropes and guide you through to Ocean Yachtmaster level. www.uksa.org www.boss-sail.co.uk www.sunsail.co.uk/sailing-schools

By Barry Pickthall

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BEST SELLER

Acinonyx jubatus

Cheetah Safari Upgraded to 4x4* From 3 November 2013 the popular Cheetah Safari will be upgraded to a 4x4vehicle on all departures.

A maximum of six guests in the Toyota Land-cruisers guarantees that everyone gets a window seat and standing space for game viewing through the pop-up roof.

When the savannah turns a golden red in the month of July, and the zebra start pouring in across the river, the first herds of the wildebeest arrive and the feasting for the predators, and scavengers, begins.

The cheetah is the world's fastest land mammal.

With acceleration that would leave most automobiles in the dust, a cheetah can go from 0 to 60 miles (96 kilometers) an hour in only three seconds. These big cats are quite nimble at high speed and can make quick and sudden turns in pursuit of prey.

Before unleashing their speed, cheetahs use exceptionally keen eyesight to scan their grassland environment for signs of prey—especially antelope and hares. This big cat is a daylight hunter that benefits from stealthy movement and a distinctive spotted coat that allows it to blend easily into high, dry grasses. When the moment is right a cheetah will sprint after its quarry and attempt to knock it down.

Such chases cost the hunter a tremendous amount of energy and are usually over in less than a minute. If successful, the cheetah will often drag its kill to a shady hiding place to protect it from opportunistic animals that sometimes steal a kill before the cheetah can eat. Cheetahs need only drink once every three to four days.

Female cheetahs typically have a litter of three cubs and live with them for one and a half to two years.

Young cubs spend their first year learning from their mother and practicing hunting techniques with playful games. Male cheetahs live alone or in small groups, often with their littermates.

Most wild cheetahs are found in eastern and southwestern Africa. Perhaps only 7,000 to 10,000 of these big cats remain, and those are under pressure as the wide-open grasslands they favor are disappearing at the hands of human settlers.

This is a 7-night classic safari visiting Samburu, home to unique wildlife, followed by the Rift Valley Lakes, where thousands of pink flamingoes often tint the horizon.

The final destination is the Masai Mara, home to vast numbers of plains game and spectacular big cats.

Overnight flight from Heathrow to Nairobi on Kenya Airways The Aberdares - Aberdare Country Club Samburu - Ashnil Samburu Camp The Aberdares - The Ark Lake Naivasha - Lake Naivasha Sopa Lodge Masai Mara - Ashnil Mara Camp Overnight flight from Nairobi to Heathrow on Kenya Airways

From

£2035 per person

Includes: Breakfast, lunch, dinner and all game drives.

*Optional beach extensions in Mombasa & Zanzibar - ideal for relaxing after the excitement and action of a safari

Call La Dolce Vita Travel on 01234 354209 for tailor-made safaris throughout East and Southern Africa.

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Photograph by Chris Johns

Day 1 Day 2 Days 3/4 Day 5 Day 6 Days 7/8 Day 9

Type: Mammal Average life span in the wild: 10 to 12 years Size: 3.5 to 4.5 ft (1.1 to 1.4 m); Tail, 25.5 to 31.5 in (65 to 80 cm) Weight: 77 to 143 lbs (35 to 65 kg) Protection status: Vulnerable Size relative to a 6-ft (2-m) man:

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Subterranean parking next to a wine cellar, plus a car elevator and a vanishing TV in the bathroom mirror — is there anything this man cave in Connecticut is missing?

A remote-controlled toilet, perhaps?

No, it has that too.

A Car Lover’s Man Cave Kicks Into High-Luxury Gear

Rick Krug and his team at TR Building & Remodeling built this carriage house–style dream space in the home’s backyard. One of the clients wanted a barn-like structure to hold his car and wine collection, a building that would have the same comfort and warmth as the main house.

“Even the most practical functions in this space are surrounded by luxury,” says Krug.

Fast cars, fine wines and a high-tech bathroom elevate this backyard outpost to the realm of dream space.

Photography by Paul Johnson

Krug and company had worked with this clients on the main house and wanted to continue the home’s style in this incredible space.

Reclaimed chestnut and pine lumber and natural stone flooring are durable and add warmth to the 1,300-square-foot interior.

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by TR Building & Remodeling Inc.

by TR Building & Remodeling

by TR Building & Remodeling

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by TR Building & Remodeling Inc.

by TR Building & Remodeling Inc.

The clients wanted a certain number of garage bays, but building them would have exceeded the maximum allowed by the town’s municipal code.

So TR Building changed the design to include subterranean parking for an extra car. An industrial-strength car elevator safely takes a single car down to the basement level, allowing another car to park on top.

The car elevator leads down to an additional parking space, with a wine cellar just outside.

The structure’s main level has not only parking spots but an electric-car charging port and a quiet workspace.

A stainless steel stair stringer and cable rail system leads to the upper level. Oil-rubbed-bronze and copper accents contribute to the warm, carriage house feel. A smoke eater prevents the rest of the space from smelling like exhaust.

by TR Building & Remodeling Inc.

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by TR Building & Remodeling Inc.

The upper level has a deck and seating area for viewing the cars combined with a TV lounge, wet bar and food prep area. The open layout allows for easy entertaining on football and movie nights. www.ldvuk.com 83

by mark pinkerton - vi360 photography

Why Men Really Do Need a Cave Don’t dismiss cars, bars and the kegerator — a man space of some kind is important for emotional well-being at home.

by mark pinkerton - vi360 photography

by Hartman Baldwin Design/Build

by Michael Abrams Limited

Calm down, ladies. When a man wants his own space in the house — be it a cave, garage, bar, media room, billiards hall, woodshop or bowling alley — it’s not a red flag indicating that he’s rebelling in your relationship, trying to avoid you or shirking social commitments. In fact, having one’s own personalized space is actually necessary and important psychologically for everyone.

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“Space is very important for regulating emotions,” says Sam Gosling, a University of Texas at Austin psychology professor and author of Snoop: What Your Stuff Says About You. Gosling studies how space is a powerful mechanism for evoking our emotions, and he’s seen firsthand how having your own space, decorated by you alone, can positively affect emotional well-being.

“It’s incredibly important to be in one’s own space and resonate with who one is,” he says.

Enter man caves. Whether we’re building a boat, playing computer games, reading car magazines, listening to loud music, working on a motorcycle, or watching action movies or five sports games at once, man caves serve a basic psychological function, even

if the guy is aware of it or not. And it’s especially vital if the guy’s emotional needs aren’t being met in other spaces. (Sorry, honey, but that fake moss inside a cloche is doing nothing for me.)

“It’s a way of saying, ‘I love my family and flowers, but that’s not what I need to regulate my emotions,’” Gosling says. “Man caves are the architectural equivalent to hanging out with your mates.” www.ldvuk.com 85

So you see? We are fragile emotional beings. We just need a kegerator (a refrigerator for a keg of beer) and power tools to cope.

When it comes to designing and outfitting a man cave, Gosling says it’s extremely important that there is no compromise. (Shall I repeat that, ladies? No compromise!)

“I don’t think people are thinking, ‘I need to regulate my emotions.’ They’re thinking, ‘I need somewhere to build my boat. While I’m there, I’m going to read the magazines I like. Listen to the music I like.’ So it organically evolves.”

“Many people are not sensitive to that,” Gosling says.

“Even in situations where both couples have careers and the space is perceived as a compromise, it still may not be meeting the emotional needs for the individuals,” Gosling continues. “Personal space is still incredibly important.”

While men might be unaware of this need, it’s definitely present. Kira Sterling, chief marketing officer for Toll Brothers custom home builders, says her company is seeing a dramatic uptick in the amount of requests for extra man space. “Men are carving out space with a lot of technology, surround sound, wet bars, exercise equipment, steam, saunas, wine bars and storage,” she says. “It’s almost like tree houses from your childhood: no girls allowed.”

by California Closets

by Hartman Baldwin Design/Build

That’s because a space that properly satisfies and regulates emotional and psychological needs is much less likely to evolve if someone else influences the outcome.

Because women traditionally take charge of decorating a household, the main living spaces tend to regulate her emotions better than the man’s. This can leave us guys feeling isolated, even if it’s on a subconscious level.

“Man caves are often portrayed as refusal to grow up.

Or as a resistance to a relationship being integrated”.

“This is a perfectly legitimate need within the context

of a relationship. People should take it seriously.”

So, come on. Give us just this one room. We might even invite you down for a beer every now and then.

by Designing Solutions

by Michael Abrams Limited

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by Hartman Baldwin Design/Build

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Jasper Littman’s bespoke visiting tailors service offers the ultimate in quality, sophistication and understated elegance in the heart of London.

They specialise in Savile Row-style bespoke and

customer care to produce the ultimate tailoring

semi bespoke suits, made in England from the finest

experience. Littman’s offers a welcome alternative to

English fabrics. Each suit is measured, fitted and

the hustle and bustle of off-the-peg shopping. The

delivered by an experienced visiting tailor. Each

visiting service covers London and South Bucks.

tailor has at least 12 years’ Savile Row experience and will travel to any specified location, convenient to the individual customer. The over-riding ethos is on combining traditional tailoring with contemporary

Phone 08456 121 220 for more information.

The Savile Row office is only for clients who would rather not be measured at their home or office.

SAVILE ROW

www.jasperlittman.co.uk

The Editor’s Picks

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HE KOOPLES ECRU STRIPED COTTON BLAZER. This premium Kooples Suit Jacket is must-have for those who find it hard to leave the office behind. With refined, relaxed tailoring and an even finer attention to detail, The Kooples founders, Alexandre, Laurent and Raphael Elicha, have done a splendid job of maintaining that smart look. £375 from thekooples.co.uk

ERSACE SHORT SLEEVE POLO SHIRT. Never one to let you down in the summertime, Versace stick to their luxury theme of 2013 with this all cotton Polo Shirt. The golf course, the spa, the shed...suitable for everywhere! £115.00 from uk.versace.com

B

D

ARBOUR WESTMORLAND WAISTCOAT. Once again Barbour have released a product that will go straight into the heart of our wardrobe, without a second’s thought. The Westmorland Waistcoat boasts a Barbour Tartan lining, Mandarin collar detail and is of course 100% Waxed Cotton.

Currently only available in characteristic sage, we expect this to be a big hit for the rest of the year. £169.95 from barbour.com

UNHILL SKY BLUE ZIP-THROUGH BLOUSON. Make sure you take your leisurely strolls in style with Dunhill’s latest treat from the spring/ summer 2013 range. The Zip-Through Blouson is a true classic, which is not only fully-lined with an interesting shoulder seam detail, it features three outer pocket zips for all of your gizmos.

Match with chinos, a classic car and a smile. £495 from dunhill.co.uk

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RADA ROLLING NYLON DUFFEL BAG. It’s really important that your next trip goes without a hitch. May we suggest you stow away all of your valuables in this rolling Prada masterpiece.

The Nylon Duffel Bag has all important black leather accents, a two way zip top and an adjustable strap so it won’t hurt your drivers back when he’s carrying it. £1,235.00 from prada.com www.ldvuk.com 91

Karl Lagerfeld photographs Cassina

For the first time the renowned fashion and creative icon has chosen to carry out an original photographic project for a furniture brand.

Fashion designers are often good at many different things like designing, styling, draping, sewing, and illustrating, but perhaps one of the most important things that must be learned is the ability to create a visual balance. Perhaps it is for this latter known

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quality that Italian based furniture company Cassina has chosen Karl Lagerfeld to photograph their iconic collection of utilitarian and classic chair designs. Or perhaps it is because they fuse traditional craftsmanship with technological skills, just as KL does in his garments. In any case these photos are an intimate portrayal of balance, as well as KL’s first attempt at photographing furniture for a brand.

This proves that there is nothing his sharp mind of endless

talent cannot do. Combining talents, skills and ideas of designers, architects and artists is one reason why Cassina is at the forefront of design. “As I enter the room I have less than a second to find graphic composition. Making the object stand out, both mysterious and unusual whilst remaining a piece of furniture.� - Karl Lagerfeld.

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by Macaluso Designs, Inc.

8 Luxury-Loving Master Bathroom Fireplaces Pamper yourself at bath time by bringing in the mesmerizing view and lovely warmth of a flickering fire.

Grand slam.

Everything in this bathroom has grand proportions — even the extra-large fireplace with a huge mantel. The fireplace sits in front of a two-person tub, while walls of vanities peak out from behind. This bathroom has just about everything you’d need for a spa-style afternoon.

Tip: Go above and beyond by adding a remote control to the fireplace so you can turn it on and off while in the tub.

by Yvonne McFadden LLC

Although the bathroom isn’t the first room you might think to put a fireplace in, adding a fireplace near your tub can create the ultimate relaxing refuge. Take a look at these amazing master bathrooms, complete with their own beautifully integrated fireplaces.

Maybe you’ll be inspired to add one to your own master bathroom remodel — now or someday.

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Clean and classic.

The simple lines say classic, and the crisp color says clean. This classic fireplace flows with the style of the beautiful vanities. I love that the fireplace uses real wood too; the smell helps create an extra-cozy vibe.

Tip: Place coordinating sconces above the fireplace for added ambience.

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by A Collaborative Design Group

Tip: Paint the firebox with white heat-resistant paint so it blends into the wall, almost disappearing until you hit the ignition.

by Carpet Colour Centre - Carpet One.

Tip: The fireplace ledge here is also a functional place for a glass of wine, candles or bathing supplies.

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Tip: For total design cohesion, make the mantel the same material as the countertops.

Designer.

Skylights accentuate an all-white marble fireplace in this designer master bathroom, which seems to have everything.

by Peace Design

Old-world charm.

The stacked stone and exposed wood ceiling transport this bathroom to another time and place. A rustic chandelier and simple tub complete the old-world feel.

Timeless traditional.

Symmetrically separating hisand-her vanities, this fireplace stands front and center. Traditional white painted wood allows the design to stay timeless for years to come.

Cool and contemporary.

A sleek stainless steel fireplace at tub level allows you to enjoy the view without craning your neck during a long soak.

Tip: Make sure to allow for plenty of room to walk between the tub and the fireplace. Many fireplaces become very hot.

Inside-outside connection.

Bring the outside right indoors with a desert fire of your very own. This is earth, wind and fire working in complete unison.

Tip: When purchasing a gas fireplace, look for the option to have glass or stones set inside the fireplace for an accent — stone would look beautiful here.

by JAUREGUI Architecture Interiors Construction

Tip: Place furniture around the fireplace for a posh preor postbath lounge area. A good book and a fluffy robe would turn this spot into paradise.

by Seura

Very Victorian.

In true Victorian fashion, lavish details unfold all throughout this master bathroom, including on the floor-to-ceiling carved fireplace surround, which marries perfectly with the adjacent freestanding undermount tub.

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ELEVATE THE EXPERIENCE

THE GRANCABRIO SPORT With the GranCabrio, Maserati moved the open-top grand touring experience to a new level. Now elevate the experience even further with the GranCabrio Sport.

With spacious seating for four people and an elegant Pininfarina design featuring the highest quality materials, the GranCabrio Sport is both luxurious and comfortable for all. The optimised 4.7 litre V8 engine delivers even more performance and couples with an enhanced Skyhook suspension, MC Auto Shift gearbox software and exhaust valves that remain open in Sport mode, to produce a sublime driving experience.

The Maserati GranCabrio Sport is priced from £103,875 on the road.

For more information on the Maserati GranCabrio Sport or Maserati events, visit www.maserati.co.uk or call 01943 871660 Car shown with optional metallic paint at £564, anodised matt red brake callipers at £516, anthracite grey Astro design alloy wheels at £480 and matt black-look headlights at no extra cost. Official fuel consumption for the Maserati GranCabrio Sport in mpg (litres/100 km): urban 12.5 (22.5), extra urban 28.8 (9.8), combined 19.5 (14.5). CO2 emissions on combined cycle: 337g/km.

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