SOUTH AFRICA
®
ASTON MARTIN TRAIN SUITE SHIKI-SHIMA THE LAST PRIDES OF
‘A talent for creating the beautiful ’
Why 2018 is your year to cruise
WHITE DESERT
SUM M E R 2 0 1 8
SOUTH AFRICA’S PREMIER LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
R45.00
SOUTH AFRICA’S PREMIER LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
Welcome to S U M M E R
2 0 1 8
ONE CENTURY IN A BOTTLE
Four generations of Cellar Masters have crafted twelve hundred eaux-de-vie to establish Louis XIII as the most prestigious spirit on Earth. A closely guarded secret since 1874.
www. www.
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editor-in-chief l Steve Swanepoel automotive lifestyle editor l Richard Webb multimedia editor l Stephanie Swanepoel creative l Le Mag Publications Group proofreaders l Moira Theart l Marion Pfeiffer photographers l Various wine correspondents l Jean Vincent Ridon l Jörg Pfützner international research & correspondents Howard Linsee-Tutill l Liz Webber advertising enquiries l sales@lemagpublications.com
CONTENTS
editorial enquiries l info@lemagpublications.com event enquiries l events@lemagpublications.com website l Warren Richards editorial contributors l Moira Theart, Marion Pfeiffer, Joy Scott, Paula Wilson, Steve Swanepoel, Sylvia Sibbald, Anne Wheeler, Richard Webb, Daphne McFarlane, Stephanie Swanepoel, Diane Stadler, Juliette Corrin, Megan Muller publisher l Le Mag Publications Group editor l editor@lemagpublications.com email l info@lemagpublications.com web l www.lemagpublications.com tel l 021 829 7120 l 021 829 7205 fax l 086 554 5580
FRONT COVER l DANIEL CRAIG
08 FROM THE EDITOR 10 WHY 2018 IS STILL YOUR YEAR TO TRAVEL 16 MY BAG & I 22 ASTON MARTIN 29 HIGH JEWELLERY
COPYRIGHT © 2017 l 2018 - LE MAG PUBLICATIONS GROUP The opinions and views expressed herein are not necessarily those of the Le Mag Publications Group. The publisher and editor regretfully cannot accept any liability for omissions or errors contained in this publication. The ownership of registered trademarks is duly acknowledged. No part of this publication or any of its content may be reproduced, digitally stored or transmitted in any format without the express and written permission of the publishing editor.
36 BREITNER HOUSE 42 THE SEA IS ALL MINE
A GIFT FOR THOSE WHO WALK WITH YOU
Not For Sale To Persons Under The Age Of 18. Drink Responsibly.
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56 Breguet and the art of Guilloche
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CONTENTS CONT ... BY JEFFREY S. KINGSTON
48 THE WORLD’S MOST LUXURIOUS BED
70 THE LAST PRIDES OF AFRICA
50 WHITE DESERT
76 SEGERA RETREAT
56 TRAIN SUITE SHIKI-SHIMA
82 DIGITAL VS. PRINT
62 CRYPTO CURRENCIES
84 EXCLUSIVE CARDS
66 NEW YEAR, NEW YOU
86 DESTINATIONS
08 LE KAP l SUMMER 2018
from the editor
Most editors in the foreword of their year-end publication would make mention of how rapidly the year had come to a close and I now join them in this generally boring statement. It is said that as one gets older time passes faster and I stand in witness to this theory, as 2017 must have been the shortest year of my life. Having said that, this edition of Le Kap magazine leaves me with a feeling of accomplishment, and, to a large degree, it stands in support of meeting the chief objective on my 2018 new year resolution list. Le Kap magazine is, and will always be, a work in progress and to that end I invite our readership and our advertising partners to communicate any suggestions, whether positive or negative, to me. I would like to believe that Le Kap magazine is a joint effort in which all of us share and have a vested interest. We, at ‘Le Mag Publications Group,’ aspire to continue producing the finest publication in South Africa and this is only achievable with the input of our readers and the support of our advertising partners. It goes without saying that the printed media has come under significant financial constraints due to the digital media onslaught. However, I am of the firm opinion that premier publications such as Le Kap magazine will not fall prey to this phenomenon, as this medium cannot be substituted without the loss of the visual and tactile experience it offers. I hope you enjoy the read. Steve Swanepoel Steve Swanepoel, Founder & CEO Le Mag Publications Group
The poetry of Italian elegance
Maison Boarini Milanesi exclusive handbags
Via del Lavoro, 71 40033 Casalecchio di Reno (BO) - Italia Tel. +39 051 0954026
www.boarini-milanesi.com
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Why 2018 is still your year to cruise ... Despite the busy preparations already underway for this year’s festive season, why not take a breather to dream about your holidays for next year? Regent Seven Seas Cruises promises not to disappoint, with an array of cruising itineraries and excursions to captivate even the most seasoned of imaginations.
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f Australia is on your bucket list, but too overwhelming to contemplate due to its sheer size and diversity, the new ‘Circumnavigation of Australia’ Grand Voyage, sailing on 15 December 2018, may be just what you need to embark on an amazing adventure of a lifetime. Alternatively, if you’ve already crossed Australia off your list, Regent Seven Seas Cruises is the only North American luxury cruise line approved to visit Cuba, which it did for the first time this year. During its 2018 to 2019 Caribbean season, it will be offering a choice of six sailings that incorporate calls to Havana, bringing passengers all the colourful charm the city has to share. Classic cruising in Cuba A Caribbean island nation of intrigue and mystery, the thought of Cuba conjures up images of Ernest Hemingway, classic convertibles, rolled cigars and the glamour of days gone by. Regent Seven Seas Cruises (RSSC) passengers are now able to experience this vintage charisma of Cuba first-hand during select itineraries aboard Seven Seas Mariner, Seven Seas Voyager and Seven Seas Navigator from October 2018 through to March 2019.
On Seven Seas Mariner, travellers can visit Havana during a 22-night voyage departing on 10 October 2018 from Miami to Honolulu (fares from $9 799pp). The ship is scheduled to transit the Panama Canal and travel to some of the most beautiful, ecological destinations of Central America and the Mexican Riviera. The 11 November 2018 sailing on Seven Seas Navigator aims to immerse guests in Cuban culture on the 14-night Eastern and Southern Caribbean itinerary. Meanwhile, Seven Seas Voyager is offering four round-trip, Caribbean voyages. The 6 December 2018 trip takes guests on a ten-night Western Caribbean itinerary, while the 16 December 12-night sailing through the Eastern Caribbean celebrates Christmas on board. A seven-night Western Caribbean itinerary, sailing on 6 February 2019, visits Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico and Roatán, Honduras (from $3 669pp) while a similar 5 March 2019 itinerary replaces Costa Maya with Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas (from $3 649pp). The 6 December, as well as her 6 February and 5 March sailings, feature midnight departures from Havana Harbour, which means guests also have the chance to experience the city’s vibrant nightlife. >
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Experience timeless Havana A selection of carefully crafted shore excursions offer RSSC passengers the opportunity to enjoy a genuine Cuban experience, while guest scholars and expert lecturers deliver compelling presentations about the country’s past, present and future. See Cuba through the eyes of one of its most famous residents, Nobel Prize-winning author Ernest Hemingway, who spent time in the country writing, marlin fishing and frequenting his favourite bars, such as La Bodeguita del Medio and La Floridita. On the ‘The Life of Hemingway in Havana’ excursion, guests visit his villa, Finca Vigia, situated on a scenic hilltop and the rooms are filled with original artifacts, books, magazines and even his bar cart. Details of his life abound, right down to the author’s notes of his weight and blood pressure, scribbled on the bathroom wall. Conclude your day with a visit to Room #511 in the eclectic Hotel Ambos Mundos, his home for seven years before he moved to the villa.
Join the ‘Legendary Tropicana Cabaret’ excursion to appreciate where Nat King Cole and dancer Josephine Baker dazzled audiences. Built in 1939, the cabaret is located in the heart of Havana and can best be described as an enchanted forest. Guests are treated to a musical production under the stars. While it’s common to see a Chevrolet, Ford, Buick or Mercury on the streets, ‘The Modern Havana in an American Classic’ excursion offers visits to other cultural classics, such as the Delirio Habanero piano bar at the National Hotel and the local cemetery where the tombstones are said to be works of art. A drive down Carlos III Street, named after the Spanish King’s statue, displays the city’s architecture while a nature trip to Havana Forest by the Almendares River rounds off the tour. Experience a rum-based Mojito or stock up on homegrown and rolled Cuban cigars, the country’s hottest commodity, on the ‘Cuban Rum, Cigars and Art’ tour. Visit La Casa del Habano and
A Deluxe Veranda Suite on Seven Seas Voyager featuring intimate sitting area, private balcony, walk-in closet with safe and separate walk-in shower to the bath. Suite size 28m² and balcony size 5m²
Below: As the flagship restaurant aboard each of our ships, the wonderfully spacious Compass Rose serves breakfast, lunch and dinner and features an exceptional variety of Europeaninspired Continental cuisine, as well as flavorful vegetarian and kosher dishes and nutritious Canyon Ranch SpaClub® specialties.
debate which of the 27 Habano brands to bring home. At the famed Museo del Ron, learn about production of the rum that is said to have ‘conquered the world’ and then take time to sample the wares. RSSC names new ship for 2020 Seven Seas Splendor is the name of the new Regent Seven Seas Cruises ship scheduled for delivery in early 2020. The second Explorer-class ship will embody and enhance the elegance that made sister-ship Seven Seas Explorer renowned as ‘the most luxurious ship ever built’ following her launch in 2016. According to Jason Montague, RSSC President and CEO, the ‘extraordinary demand’ for Seven Seas Explorer reinforced the decision to expand the fleet. The new all-suite, all-balcony ship will have a capacity of 750 guests. >
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Around and about in amazing Australia With a country larger than Europe, capturing everything there is to see and do in Australia can be daunting, especially if you miss out on Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ new ‘Circumnavigation of Australia’ Grand Voyage in 2018. Sailing from 15 December, starting and ending in Sydney, guests travel with Seven Seas Mariner for 36 nights to the major cities and regions in Australia, as well as parts of Indonesia. Fares will range from $25 499. In addition, passengers will enjoy a free one-night pre-cruise hotel stay (including dinner) in Sydney, a New Year’s Eve party in Bali, an exclusive shoreside experience and up to 59 free shore excursions, including access to 11 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. South Australia’s capital of Adelaide is named the ‘City of Churches’ due to its architecturally rich church buildings. Adelaide also offers chic boutiques in the city’s East End district, along with arts and antiques on Magill Road.
is another intriguing stop. The coconut tree-lined beaches and interesting array of water sports (including underwater sea walks and underwater scooters) make it a popular destination.
For a spiritual respite in Bali, visit the Tanah Lot Temple, a rock formation and home to the Sacred Hindu Pilgrimage Temple, one of the seven sea temples along the Balinese coast. Located on the southern portion of the island, the small fishing village of Benoa
Bali is known for its animals, so be sure to visit the Macaques at the Ubed Monkey Forest. The Bali Safari and Marine Park offers an up-close look at everything from elephants and orangutans to Himalayan bears and the legendary Indian white tigers.
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MY BAG & i By Marion Pfeiffer
A handbag is an essential. This especially applies to women today as a handbag is not only an accessory or a necessary part of her wardrobe – it is as an extension of herself, a central focus for her working day or a statement fashion piece and what’s more, it often reveals a lot about its owner. Either functional or fashionable or both, handbags may be merely a denim or cloth bag or a superbly crafted designer creation. There is a universal need to organise one’s belongings, and different styles of handbags in one form or another have existed according to the culture around the world for centuries. They have been essential ever since people had something precious to carry around with them and only the items carried have transformed over time. Historically, archaeologists have identified that both men and women used handbags for practical purposes such as carrying tools or food. The well-preserved mummy known as Otzi the Iceman estimated to be 5 300 years old was discovered with a pouch connected to his belt holding flint, a drill, a bit and dried fungus. The Egyptians of the Old Kingdom (2686–2160 BC) had double handled bags made from linen and papyrus while the Greeks carried byrsa or coin purses hidden in folds of clothing. In an Anglo-Saxon burial mound in Britain, an ornamental purse dated back to 625 AD was discovered and although its condition had deteriorated, there were indications of gold, silver and garnet detail and it still held 40 gold coins. At St Michaels in Switzerland, a Byzantine relic pouch dated from the 9th century was uncovered, lined in red silk with embroidered lions on a blue background. From the 13th century, western Europeans carried small purses called almoners that held coins to donate to the poor while working
A 625 AD ornamental purse
people used what we would now refer to as handbags for carrying small goods made from heavy fabric and leather. The aristocracy had more sophisticated versions often presented as gifts by those in pursuit of love and decorated with romantic scenes, and a medieval gentleman might present his bride with a purse of coins. By the 15th century, handbags had developed into creations with cast metal frames carried by male aristocrats and royalty and these designs became increasingly more whimsical using elegant fabrics and elaborate embellishments. The Elizabethans appreciated allegory and visual witticisms reflected in their bags, using acorn shapes and even frog shapes where the mouth was the opening of the purse. Moving on to the 16th and 17th century, tiny bags with complex forms became status symbols for women holding fragrant rose petals and spices to cover up body odour and disagreeable aromas. The evening bag appeared in the late Renaissance, and both men and women used flat bags carrying gaming chips and coins used for gambling. Handbags for more formal occasions were more ornate with original panels and shapes, sometimes depicting stories relating to the owner. In the 18th century, men started to use small coin-shaped purses attached to their belts, and hanging bags started to become recognised as part of feminine attire. Women carried small bags dangling from their wrists or larger bags; work bags held sewing projects and pear-shaped bags belted on the hip were for smelling salts, fans and opera glasses. Handbags made of netting were known as reticules in France and indispensables in England, silkprinted commemorative and novelty bags gained popularity with little space for hidden items. Like today, there was a bag for every occasion. However, men did not follow this trend! Pockets appeared in men’s trousers, which replaced breeches, and purses to carry coins became the norm. Interestingly, as the demand increased for men to carry an increasing number of items such as pipes, tobacco and matches, the need for pockets increased while in the case of women, the demand was for larger handbags. As the fashion in the 19th century became larger with fuller skirts, women’s handbags took the form of drawstring and frame handbags. Victorian England handbag trends show sentimental scenes with embroidered and beaded domestic scenes often made by their owners to show off their needlework with designs of great artistry and beauty. Handbags started to be used for different reasons such as travel and shopping and were made commercially and by hand. Tapestry bags made their appearance and Louis Vuitton introduced luggage and hand-held travel bags with hand painted initials. >
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Chanel introduced her quilted bag with its long double chain shoulder strap leaving the hands free – still very much in vogue today. Short strapped bags in boxy shapes constructed from Lucite had pearlised, marbled or faux wood designs and are now considered collector’s pieces. In 1935, Hermes produced the Sac Haut a Courrioses, a rectangular shaped bag with a flat bottom, made of finely waxed leather, crocodile or lizard skin. In 1956, Grace Kelly used one to conceal her pregnancy from the media, and the bag immediately became a fashion icon known as the Kelly bag, becoming the most recognised handbag of the 20th century. Hippie culture in the 1960s broke down the old classical ideas, bringing more exotic materials, handmade macramé in different sizes, fringed suede and crafted leather bags. The Birkin bag, which was introduced by Hermes in 1884, was the ultimate status bag created for Jane Birkin who famously spilt the entire contents out of her bag on an aeroplane. Coach produced a handmade bag in the 1960s with credit card pockets and all matching hardware using rare leathers and limited editions and remains a handbag icon to this day. During the 1970s there was a resurgence in the demand for men’s handbags and a variety of accessory bags for men had been produced by designers, typically based on backpacks, satchels or messenger bags with a masculine of unisex appearance. Designers of these items include Prada, Vuitton and Coach and sales are increasing. > Princess Grace Kelly
The Birkin bag
The term ‘handbag’ was first used to refer to luggage bags carried by men and inspired the new mode of handbags with intricate designs for women. Early 20th century handbag fashion started to develop with exotic textiles combined with practicality; small silver mesh creations, large velvet bags with hand-carved frames, beaded German-Italian bags decorated featuring fairy tale castles and landscapes. Antique fabrics created beautiful bags further embellished with ribbon and lace, and the attraction of the Orient became evident with Asian themed designs. Leather shoulder bags in slim plain shapes became popular and in 1923, Hermes converted feed and saddle bags into stylish accessories setting a style using army cargo zippers as fasteners. In the 1930s, Vuitton introduced a chic bag to carry champagne bottles, thus launching shoulder strap bucket bags still in fashion today, and Hermes created a handbag around a square piece of horse blanket with thin central straps around a box-shaped purse. World War II influenced handbag style with restrictions on materials creating simple, classic forms with handheld clutch bags shaped like envelopes made from less expensive materials and could be closed with simple flaps. Later 20th-century fashion in handbags often echoes that of earlier years with bags matching shoes, cocktail bags for evenings for fashionistas usually made with satin, beads and sequins. In 1955,
The poetry of Italian elegance
Maison Boarini Milanesi exclusive handbags
Via del Lavoro, 71 40033 Casalecchio di Reno (BO) - Italia Tel. +39 051 0954026 www.boarini-milanesi.com
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Evidently, over the years, as forms and styles of handbags have been developed, your choice of bag will say a lot about you. Some of the bags in high demand, like a Hermes in-store, is nearly impossible to source unless you are part of the celebrity set. Waiting lists of several years are customary, particularly for the Hermes Birkin as each bag takes one person up to three weeks to complete to maintain their quality. Hermes is not alone as the demand for Chanel and those from similar designers is evident. These classics don’t lose their value; they become heirlooms and timeless pieces in a woman’s collection. Colours are critical and fashion colours for the year are to be avoided as these can be seasonal - stick to black and classic hues. Walk-in wardrobes stand back; the ‘bagrobe’ is here for those with 100s of bags in their collection. Whether sentimentally priceless or solely for investment, handbags have become serious collector’s pieces with high values in the marketplace. Companies involved in sourcing luxury items for clients often find rare handbags on the list.
Lady Dior bag
In looking at this brief history of handbags and their development over time it is clear that they were ordinarily useful and practical initially, but came to represent status, wealth and examples of excellent craftsmanship in later years. There are a few things that can be defined as making fashion lovers lose their ability to speak and one of these for the handbag enthusiast is a classic handbag. The smoothness of the leather, the smell and timeless shape of iconic bags can only be described by someone who has held one in their own hands. They are pricey, but they are investments as we all agree, and never lose their charm, admirable qualities and value – so every lady should have at least one in her collection. In the 2000s, collecting handbags is growing in popularity. Christie’s started a handbag department in 2014 with several staff members and even a global manager for handbags. In June 2017, the first auction devoted to handbags took place. From an investment point of view, some of the prices fetched are astonishing. In June 2015, Christie’s in Hong Kong sold a pink crocodile skin Hermes bag for STG 146 000 and in May 2017 a similar white crocodile skin bag with 10.23 carats of diamonds sold by the same group in Hong Kong fetched HK$ 2,9 million (STG 293 000). There are museums in Amsterdam and one in Seoul, Korea dedicated to handbags with more on the horizon. Collecting handbags is becoming an increasing trend and among celebrity collectors to whom fashion is a portable art, are Victoria Beckham who has over 100 Birkin bags, Lady Gaga, Rhianna, Miranda Kerr and the list continues. The three most essential elements for collectors are the condition, rarity and desirability and weekly online auctions by companies such as Heritage Auctions are followed with increasing interest and excitement. Imitation or copying is the most genuine form of flattery and fashion houses such as Gucci, Dior, Chanel and Coach, among numerous others, might consider themselves as very flattered by the number of replicas flooding the market, often called designer fakes sought after by those who cannot afford the real thing.
Hermes white crocodile skin bag sold by Christies for HK$ 2,9 million
In attempting to identify the top five classic handbags, according to media reports, the following seem to be the ones! CHANEL CLASSIC JUMBO 2.55 – original style bag with its rectangular clasp and single opening strap. New price around STG 4 500. HERMES BIRKIN – retails from STG 7 500–100 000 depending on size and quality. HERMES KELLY – named after Grace Kelly and a definite classically beautiful bag. Nearly impossible to buy new, but retails between STG 7 500–65 000 according to size and material. CHANEL CLASSIC TIMELESS – a design from Karl Lagerfeld, this has a double flap and the classic two C’s intertwined with a leather and silver strap. New price STG 4 500. DIOR, LADY DIOR – much desired classic available in a range of materials including lambskin and python and is known as a little shopper with little Dior charms. Prices vary from STG 3 500–15 000.
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ASTON MARTIN ‘A talent for creating the beautiful’ In a properly automated and educated world, machines may prove to be the true humanising influence, says Richard Webb
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H
undred and fifty years ago, Lionel Martin and Robert Bamford founded Aston Martin in a small London workshop. Both men had a passion for machines and a talent for engines and racing. Their shared love for the motor car prospered and became an expression of the exhilarating and memorable – beautiful cars that etched into the memory of a generation of enthusiasts. Expectations were high, with the press of the day suggesting this would be a sports car to rival Bugatti. The name Martin and Bamford chose for this most exotic and emotive of marque was not, as you’d have thought, Bamford Martin. Aston Martin was a combination of the name of a partner and of the Aston Clinton sprint hill climb near Tring, in Hertfordshire, England. Since the earliest days, these moments of beauty have been steeped in racing heritage. Like Ferrari, Alfa Romeo, Jaguar and others, the firm has always believed that racing helped to improve their cars. Aston Martin’s historic debut in the 1922 French Grand Prix proved to be just the beginning of a burning passion that still smoulders today. David Brown, an English industrialist, took over from 1947 to 1972. He revolutionised the company, growing its operations, acquiring the Lagonda marque and introducing a dizzy succession of iconic cars like the DB2 - the first Aston Martin to carry the now celebrated ‘DB’ nameplate. Buoyed by 2nd and 3rd in its class at Le Mans in 1951, each new car propelled the company further into the global spotlight. In 1959, the DBR1 took the honours at 24 Hours of Le Mans and the track-bred DB3 and DB3S were followed up by the arguably most memorable DB4 and its highperformance sibling - the DB4GT. It was this series that sparked the historic collaboration with Zagato.
By the time the DB5 was unveiled in 1963, the brand looked unstoppable. The car became an instant international hit, with critical acclaim, propelling Aston Martin onto the global stage. Some still praise it as one of the most beautiful cars in the world and one that indelibly marked popular culture unlike any other. Aston Martin has evolved to become a globally admired luxury brand.
Above: This ultra-rare DB4/GT Zagato is one of the most expensive British cars ever sold at auction, fetching £9.45 million in 2015. Originally built to allow Aston Martin to challenge Ferrari in the World Sports Car Championship, Aston sent its car to Carrozzeria Zagato, with the instruction to maximise its performance. Left: This Vantage specification 1954 DB 2/4 Mk I was the inspiration for the Aston Martin In Goldfinger’ Originally intended for the market comprised of ‘sports car enthusiasts with a family’, sufficient space was added within the existing DB2 design for two childsized occasional rear seats. Opposite page top: The Aston Martin DB11 V12 press car on test in the British countryside near Gaydon, Warwickshire. Overall, it impressed with its muscular and cultured performance Right: Aston Martin DBS 3 : In 1968, the DBS retained the six-cylinder, 3,995 cc engine carried over from the DB6. From1969 the DBS was also made available with a V8 engine – a four-seat grand touring car, capable of 260 kph. A distinguishing feature of both the DBS and DBSV8 are the four quartz iodine headlights set into the iconic Aston Martin grille.
Eschewing uniformity, Aston Martins are cars of great character. Every era is unified by their individuality. I think the current era will be viewed as amongst the most exciting. An admiration of sensuous function has always been at the core of the business and perhaps none more so than the latest DB11 - the clearest sign of Aston Martin’s prospects. If they are as fantastic as the car looks, well, it’s the brand to watch. Stepping into the car, you notice the new dash design and it is truly a welcome step up in quality and presentation. Push the big crystal button in the middle of the dash and the V12 churns into life with that slightly lazy starter-motor induced howl so redolent of big, menacing engines like this.
Clear and unfussy, the large digital dials and the central control panel blends Aston’s craftsmanship with some Mercedes-Benz electronic architecture. I soon got used to operating all of the functions, and the infotainment system works and like the car itself, sounds fabulous. Comfort levels are excellent, with an impressive, smooth ride considering the very low profile tyres. At motorway speeds there was a surreal absence of engine noise – the V12 loping along at 1,500rpm at an indicated 112km/h – there was an absence of engine noise. Darting off the motorway, I blasted through the typically narrow British country lanes at spirited pace. It’s then that the big lungs opened and bellowed like a pissedoff bear in a tuxedo. The DB11 does have rear seats, but anyone other than very small humans will find the rear accommodation a seriously unhappy place to be. Like the grand tourer it really is, the boot takes a couple of ‘naughty weekend away’ bags, plus there is more storage space in the rather small door pockets and under the armrest. At the wheel, I felt immediately at home, but I wondered if others may find this big grand tourer a bit intimidating at times? My wife drove the car and whilst she mentioned that over-the-shoulder visibility is poor, it did compensate with a multitude of cameras situated around the car that project images on to the screen. “Controls are ultra-smooth - the steering, throttle, brakes and eight-speed automatic gearbox made progress regal, even with the seemingly endless bonnet,” she reckons. Still, you need a steady hand to thread this V12 through narrow roads in towns and villages. One of the characteristics of this car is that it puts a smile on your face when you drive and look at it. You can’t help it. Get the DB11 on an open road and it really starts to shine like a Cape Town summer’s day.
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I revelled in the towering performance from the 5.2-litre V12 engine, which, incidentally, is made from a couple of Ford Mondeo V6 units bolted in tandem. 0-100kph pops up in just 3.9 seconds, and when the turbos really start to come on stream at 2,000rpm, it has so much grunt your smile starts to become ever deeper etched into your face. It’s that good! Add the accurate steering and lack of body roll when you line up the apex of sweeping blacktop you know that it is much more than a cruiser.
V12 JUST TOO MUCH? THE V8 IS A PEACH
It could well be that machines will do the work that makes life possible and that human beings will do all the other things that make life pleasant and worthwhile. However, for me, the Aston Martin DB11 did both.
Using a ‘hot turbo’ arrangement, where its twin single-scroll turbos nestle in the 90-degree V between the cylinder blocks, there’s a noticeable reduction in turbo lag. At 1,730kg, there’s 115kg less mass up front compared to the V12, making the turnin to corners feel more immediate.
Aston also offers a Mercedes-AMG V8 engined DB11, a 4.0-litre, 375kW and 675Nm twin-turbo 90-degree V8. It is productionbased but hand-built, as usual, by one very busy, skilled AMG engineer per engine. The engine has been made more ‘Aston’, by fettling some of the components, giving it a raffish, insolent booming timbre, very different from its V12 stablemate.
The loss of 1.2 litres, a couple of cylinders, and 100bhp compared with the V12 must make this version a little disappointing, right? Don’t believe it. I tried the cars almost back to back, and confirm that it is still a formidably rapid car and every bit a pukka driver’s car. Against the V12, its 187mph top end is only 13mph down and the 4.0sec 0-62mph acceleration is just 0.1sec slower. Push hard, and the rear-end will power-slide out of corners and get quite spectacular under provocation, but it always feels stable, aided by powerful and progressive brakes. Compared with the V12, I felt I knew more instinctively what the car would do. In fact, I’d say the V8 handles better than the V12. It is no less of an Aston Martin for having ‘only’ 8 cylinders, but don’t expect it to be that much cheaper than the V12. Whilst an Audi R8 and a Porsche 911 may be on your prospect list, DB11 is a genuinely great car to drive. It looks terrific and its charisma is matched by its power.
Above: The DB5 driven by James Bond in the film Goldfinger was released only 3 months prior to shooting. Predictably, the special effects team got busy, adding an unfeasibly large array of gadgets to the weaponised car, including machine guns, an ejector seat, a smoke screen and most importantly, tyre slashers. Perfect for the daily Sandton commute! Right: On Her Majesty's Secret Service introduced the stunning DBS. Sadly, in the end, Bond's wife was assassinated through the DBS's windscreen. This Aston was the last car produced under David Brown’s ownership. In the film that followed – Diamonds Are Forever – the DBS was briefly shown being fitted with obligatory missiles in Q's lab.
Below: During 1985 Timothy Dalton starred in The Living Daylights and his weapon of choice was the V8 Vantage Volante. With gadgets, like Goldfinger's DB5, it boasted a rear rocket propulsion system, missiles, lasers, and tyre spikes for super-traction control. And in a forerunner to today’s head-up displays, this one projected missile guidance on the windscreen, along with a built-in self-destruct timer.
Above: Casino Royale gave James Bond a more ‘serious’ tone. Daniel Craig’s DBS V12 still had gadgets, but they restrained, like a handy defibrillator and a silenced Walther PPK. Naturally, these gadgets were as much use as a chocolate teapot when Bond drove over the hill at speed and swerved to avoid Vesper, resulting in a world record breaking series of 7 flips that left Bond unconscious and in the clutches of the enemy. The DB5 returned again in the 2006 Casino Royale, where Bond won the car from Alex Dimitrios in a poker game and Bond – in a provocative move – used the DB5 to steal Dimitrios's girlfriend.
DEFENDING THE HERITAGE To experience the passion behind the brand and its heritage, I visited Ecurie Bertelli in Olney, Buckinghamshire, arguably the world’s foremost pre-war Aston Martin specialists. Set up in 1976 by Nick Mason and others, it quickly earned a reputation for high quality restorations of vintage Bertelli-era Aston Martins. Today, they buy and sell, service and restore some of the most historically important Astons. I asked Managing Director, Robert Blakemore, who grew up around pre-war Aston Martins, if they make their own parts? “We have 4,000 original parts drawings and 2,500 original technical drawings at our disposal, so we can manufacture and supply pre-1940 parts to original specification,” he says. Keen to see an example of Aston Heritage Specialist network, I headed south, to South Kensington, London to visit the city’s only official Heritage Specialist and one of just 13 appointed globally, Nicholas Mee & Co. They specialise in the supply of parts, vehicle services and pre-owned Aston Martin cars produced from 1959 to the present day. Managing Director, Nicholas Mee joined Aston Martin Lagonda in 1976, rising to become a key management team member. “I left Aston Martin in 1991 and went on to form my business. We offer support for all models from the DB2 to the V12 Vanquish, like maintenance, regular servicing, partial rebuilds and full restoration by our highly skilled, factory-trained engineers using original factory tools, replacement parts and diagnostic equipment,” says Mee.
Breguet, the innovator. Classique Hora Mundi 5717
An invitation to travel across the continents and oceans illustrated on three versions of the hand-guillochĂŠ lacquered dial, the Classique Hora Mundi is the first mechanical watch with an instant-jump time-zone display. Thanks to a patented mechanical memory based on two heart-shaped cams, it instantly indicates the date and the time of day or night in a given city selected using the dedicated pushpiece. History is still being written...
ELEGANCE JEWELLERS SHOP HL15 MELROSE ARCH, JOHANNESBURG SOUTH AFRICA +27 11 684 1380 TA N U R J E W E L L E R S S H O P 1 4 7 , V I C T O R I A W H A R F, V & A W AT E R F R O N T, C A P E T O W N S O U T H A F R I C A + 2 7 2 1 4 1 8 5 5 2 4
LE KAP l SUMMER 2018
BREGUET
High Jewellery
Few luxury brands have achieved the magnitude of international influence like Breguet. After two decades as an iconic watchmaker the brand has become an inherent part of European culture and is synonymous with aristocracy. French-Swiss watchmaker Abraham-Louis Breguet, born to Huguenot parents, studied watchmaking for 10 years under Ferdinand Berthoud and Jean-Antoine Lépine before setting up his own watchmaking business in Paris during 1775. The dowry that came with the marriage to the daughter of a prosperous French bourgeois empowered him to open his own workshop. The influential relationships Breguet formed as a student of mathematics and apprentice watchmaker paid off almost immediately when he was introduced to the royal court. The queen, Marie-Antoinette was fascinated by Breguet’s unique self-winding watch and Louis XVI bought several of Breguet’s watches. Being connected to the royal court gave Breguet liberal access to the powerful and wealthy aristocracy, and he proved himself to be a technical genius when he perfected the self-winding movement invented by Perrelet and invented shock resistance for balance bearings. Prior to this development most pocket watches were badly damaged when dropped. Breguet also developed ‘la repetition’ - a pocket watch that chimed in order for one to tell time in the dark. One of Breguet’s most famous inventions is the ‘tourbillon’, which is an addition to the mechanics of a watch escapement. A tourbillon counters the effects of gravity by mounting the escapement and balance wheel in a rotating cage, which keeps it in the same position irrespective of the attitude of the watch. This invention was so cutting-edge that even today, with the benefit of modern day technology, only the most skilled watchmakers can build the tourbillon. Breguet began with the theory that the gravity of a pocket watch, almost always carried vertically, led to deviations in timekeeping. He wanted to rule out all differences of position with the tourbillon. Breguet’s tourbillon eliminated most deviations caused by differences in position and allowed many watches to attain chronometer-like accuracy. These inventions of Breguet ensured the growth and success of his watch business under the rule of two Bourbon kings, three governments of the First Republic and the reign of Napoleon. In fact, Napoleon was one of Breguet’s most loyal customers. At the time whoever was in power in Europe wore a Breguet. In this edition of Le Kap magazine we showcase a select few pieces from the ‘High Jewellery’ collection, which reflect the work of this iconic watchmaker.
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DÉSIR DE LA REINE Inspired by the costumes worn by the Breguet company’s first female client, Queen Marie-Antoinette of France, this new Breguet jewellery collection presents an astonishing complexity of form, recalling the elegant silks and ruffled lace of the period. Breguet’s watchmakers have often sought their inspiration from this feminine world to elaborate the company’s jewellery timepieces. The dressmakers of old made vivid and sophisticated costumes where bows, ribbons, lace and frills competed to proclaim the femininity and status of the wearer. This flourishing creativity has inspired some of Breguet’s finest jewellery watches. Breguet has once again interpreted the seductive power of these dress accessories in mechanisms and gemstones with the ‘Désir la Reine’ collection. Thus metal playfully evokes the fleeting beauty of fabric in motion, while the rustling chaos of frills can be imagined in the gem-set bow with scrolls that cling to the bezel and lose themselves haphazardly in the dial made of natural mother-of-pearl. Thanks to Breguet’s expertise in jewellery, a myriad of diamonds bathes the Volants de la Reine watch in an exquisite fire. The case is of 18-carat white gold and the case band and bezel is set with 146 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 2,848 ct). The flange is set with 66 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 0,132 ct) and 193 brilliant-cut Baguette diamonds of approximately 1,07 ct make up an interwoven ribbon surmounted by two cushion-cut sapphires (approx. 0,59 ct), while the scrolls and the bow are decorated with a fine frosting of diamonds. The dial in mother-of-pearl is decorated with 20 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 0,02 ct) with a Breguet medallion inset at 12 o’clock. The beautiful satin strap with folding clasp is set with 28 brilliant-cut diamonds. The exquisite Volants de la Reine timepiece is fitted with a self-winding mechanical movement and the crown is set with a briolette diamond of approximately 0,28 ct, which completes this masterpiece to perfection. A jewellery set consisting of a ring, a necklace and earrings complements the watch. Each item of jewellery features one or more blue sapphires as its central theme. The ring displays a cushion-cut sapphire in its centre, surrounded by a wrap of brilliant-cut diamonds. The necklace is set with six cushion-cut and pear-cut sapphires poised on a ribbon of brilliant-cut and baguette diamonds. As for the earrings, they are each set with a pear-cut sapphire and brilliant-cut and baguette diamonds. This elegant regalia and the accompanying watch invite frivolity with their delicate curves skilfully crafted by Breguet’s master-jewellers.
DÉSIR DE LA REINE
MARIE-ANTOINETTE DENTELLE The ‘Marie-Antoinette Dentelle’ jewellery set is an anthem to the femininity and elegance of the wife of King Louis XVI. The meticulous setting of the brilliant and baguette-cut diamonds accentuates the white gold lacework pattern and highlights the majestic rubies in this collection.
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BREGUET CRAZY FLOWER Once again Breguet High Jewellery displays stunning boldness in the design of contemporary gem-set pieces. This year Breguet presents the Crazy Flower, combining the pure beauty of diamonds with the technical daring of a mobile setting. Housing a calibre 586 self-winding mechanical movement, the watchcase features asymmetrical rows of baguette-cut diamonds mounted on minimalist settings affixed to the case from the middle section up to the bezel. These supple, springy settings make the most of the stones’ brilliance, swaying gracefully in response to movement. The 116 baguette-cut diamonds will thus oscillate back and forth in a graceful and subtle dance reminiscent of wind-ruffled petals. For its part, the dial comprises 206 brilliant-cut diamonds ‘inverse-set’ on a concave face rimmed by a flange set with a further 66 brilliantcut stones and enhanced with an hour circle composed of 20 baguette-cut stones. Over 36 carats of diamonds glimmer in wondrously fine settings – a truly exceptional achievement by the talented craftsmen of Breguet’s Haute Joaillerie workshops. This dazzling tour de force comes with a Crazy Flower haute jewellery suite made up of a ring featuring a blooming-flower motif along with ear pendants and motifs also displaying mobile diamond clusters.
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BREGUET SECRET DE LA REINE In 1783, Elisabeth Vigée Le Brun painted a portrait of the queen of France entitled ‘Marie-Antoinette with the Rose’. In tribute to one of its most illustrious clients Breguet drew on the world of Marie-Antoinette to create some incomparable timepieces. The collection entitled ‘La Rose de la Reine’ borrowed the rose of the portrait to recreate it as a shell cameo. This traditional craft from southern Italy consists of carving a relief image on a shell. To this suite of a ring, a bracelet, earrings, a pendant and a sautoir necklace of Akoya pearls, Breguet has added a watch named Secret de la Reine. As is traditional with secret watches, pressing on the cameo rose reveals the time. This finel carved cameo depicts the first petals of the rose enhanced by the diamonds set into the watch and the emblematic bow of the collection. The Secret de la Reine is available in rose or white gold and in keeping with Breguet’s promise to provide mechanical movements in women’s watches, this magnificent timepiece is fitted with the selfwinding calibre 586 movement, which is visible through a glass with anti-reflective coating on both sides. Le
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BREITNER HOUSE
Amsterdam By Sylvia Sibbald
Today, Amsterdam is a significant capital in Europe for business, tourism and culture. Formerly, a humble thirteenth century fishing village on a river, this city continues its tradition as a centre for culture and commerce and is somewhat different from any other in the world. The most multicultural city in the world with 175 nationalities amongst its residents, it is almost a country within a large one, the Netherlands.
W
ith the appeal of a metropolis, it still maintains the picture-perfect intrigue similar to that of a small village with hundreds of wonders to explore amongst its rambling streets and small cobbled passages between the buildings. Detailed gable stones identify the specific gable house numbers and perhaps the former owners’ professions, family coat of arms and history. One of the biggest attractions is the worldfamous canal network with over 1200 bridges, which have over the years, formed the basis for transport for both people and products. The glorious Golden Age between1600 and 1800, with the establishment of the first multinational company, the Dutch East India Company (VOC), mainly based on its trade in Indian spices, changed the city into a dominant trading centre, driving its growth in all directions. However, it is not an ancient city by European standards as most of its construction took place during the twentieth century, but the charm is in the detail and it is this that attracts international visitors to this cultural hotspot throughout the year.
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With regard to accommodation, the choice is enormous and varied, and it is among these that Breitner House emerges as a gem, offering luxury, history, charm and character. The history of Breitner House is one filled with tales of artists, both painters and writers, who lived in the heart of the city and entered this home known for famous parties held by its former somewhat bohemian occupants since the early nineteenth century, mainly well-known artists throughout Dutch history. The characteristic Amsterdam townhouse was constructed in 1882 and is associated with art and literature and its location and style have inspired many. George Breitner and Isaac Israels, both famous impressionists painted in these rooms with their splendid architecture offering light from all directions. With views over the Oosterpark this home is located in a cultural oasis that includes The Hermitage, The Rembrandt House, The Tropical Museum and also a wide variety of theatres, waterside cafĂŠs and top restaurants, just to mention a few.
The George Breitner Suite
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The owners of this lovingly restored historic mansion today, actress Camilla Braaksma and director Guido Bouvy, decided to open the doors of this home and create a refined and elegant 5-star boutique-style hotel with bespoke concierge services. Part of the house has been transformed into two classically decorated suites, reflecting the romantic atmosphere of the city. Guests can enjoy a lavish experience including the now-famous sumptuous champagne breakfast in the classic dining room with its beautiful views overlooking the park. As a guest in this superior charismatic hotel, you can enjoy a unique stay, making your visit to the splendours of Amsterdam even more memorable. The dedication of the owners to maximise the pleasure of your stay with them is evident in their attendance to any need or wish you might have during your visit. The two luxurious suites available were originally the old ateliers of the artists George Breitner and Isaac Israels and now offer a peaceful haven of refined elegance with their authentic ornamented ceilings combined with Italian chandeliers and canopies, providing a sense of royalty and comfort. Stylishly decorated with accents of silk, velour and brocade fabrics enhance this feeling. The George Breitner Suite is on the first floor and feels as if no time has passed since the original construction in 1884. The view over the Oosterpark and Tropenmuseum is panoramic and quite sensational. Furnishings include the Italian chandeliers, personal writing desk, large divan, fireplace and the canopy bed with the finest linen. On one wall, a painting of irises in gold and blue reminds one of the artistic past of this home. On the ground floor, the Isaac Israels Suite overlooks the private garden with its own terrace situated among the rare fruit trees, flowers, statues and a small pond. This suite is decorated in powder blue and sand colours, with a fireplace, large fauteuils, writing desk and its uniquely constructed ornamented ceiling, Italian chandeliers and canopy. Both suites offer spacious private bathrooms with a choice of luxury toiletries. This boutique hotel, with its rich cultural past, also offers itself as a venue, providing an exclusive environment and ambience - the ideal setting for occasions such as weddings, private dinners and concerts.
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the amazing Benetti FB268 ‘Seasense’ ... a 67 metre mega yacht
THE SEA IS ALL MINE ...
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By Juliette Corrin
S
EASENSE: the aspiration to enter into a special relationship with the sea is embodied in the name of this exceptional yacht by Benetti. Benetti’s Livorno yard constructed this new 67-meter full-custom superyacht with its steel hull and aluminium superstructure was built for a specialist owner who chose the Benetti brand for the first time. His knowledge influenced this choice in that both the aesthetics and building techniques will be of the most exceptional quality. This is mostly due to Benetti’s ongoing commitment to consistently innovate and develop all technical aspects of yacht building, which give their product its ‘substance’ and characterise the brand as a paradigm of excellence. Seasense’s elegant and original exteriors have been created by Dutch designer Cor D Rover (this is his first design for Benetti). Cor D Rover added his personal touch to this project in the form of the high narrow side windows and most importantly, by achieving what the designer calls his ‘Benetti beach club’ concept, which is a defining feature of the entire project. Aft on the main deck is a surprisingly big 10x4m swimming pool with a large sunbathing area, which can be covered to form a free deck space for use as a basketball court. A prominent feature is the teak planking laid athwart ships, or in other words, sideways rather than lengthways as is usually the case. Seasense has a decidedly unusual layout, featuring an indooroutdoor dining area with a table with seating for 12 people between the swimming pool and the indoor TV lounge. A system of recessed sliding doors allows this area to expand by adding the outdoor pool area or become a closed space with access to the TV lounge indoors. These characteristics make it an exceptional living space, even in winter, as the backlit wood cladding imparts a sensation of warmth and intimacy. Like the arrangement of the outdoor areas, the interiors of Seasense comfortably accommodate 12 guests in six suites that offer some fantastic features. The contemporary design of the interiors is a collaboration between the Los Angeles based design firm AREA, making their international debut in the world of superyachts, and the team of Benetti architects. On board, the colour scheme is a reflection of the sea’s varying shades of blue with spectacular red, grey or white flourishes creating a fresh and contemporary atmosphere, playing on the colour contrasts reprised throughout the yacht, but without any sense of repetition. The ‘Seasense’ features a variety of over 100 different materials that is a remarkable selection for a yacht. The main walls in the salons are grey wood, but different types of timber have been used in each area and at least two different types of marble in each bathroom, not to mention the variety of flooring solutions in place on the yacht.
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The interior layout on the main deck is truly exceptional. The salon accessed directly from the indoor-outdoor area is a self-sufficient living/screening room with armchairs and a large L-shaped sofa, commissioned by the owner for his family. It also has access to the lobby with its grey Antartide Marble spiral staircase featuring evocative under-step lighting and a blue wooden structure with steel inserts flowing with the dynamic progression of the stairway. A VIP cabin located in the stern is fitted with a walk-in wardrobe, a vanity desk and an en-suite bathroom. Further forward on the same deck is the master cabin, the main feature being the extraordinary height of the ceiling, which exceeds 300 cm in the central section. The owners are enthusiastic art collectors and specifically requested a huge steel chandelier/sculpture, measuring 2.7 x 2.2 m to be exclusively commissioned for Seasense and installed in this cabin. The cabin is completed by a chaise longue, twin walk-in wardrobes, and a bathroom with shower and tub. On the lower deck are four guest cabins, two with double beds and two with twin beds which can be easily made into a double bed. The yachts galley (kitchen) is also located on this deck, inside the crew area, featuring steel fittings and countertops made from Silverstone and quartz aggregates.
A garage located in the centre of the yacht contains a jewel within a jewel, in the form of an exclusive Limo tender designed exclusively for Seasense by Giorgio Cassetta. On the upper deck, in addition to the helm station and the captain’s cabin, is the second salon. This is more formal than the one on the main deck and comprised of a living room, an office and a bookcase area, as well as a dining space on a circular veranda complete with a table that can seat 12 and can be separated from the lounge if required by an elegant curtain. There is another outdoor lounge area in the stern. Moving around on board is easy due to the wide walkways enabling the crew to perform their duties without encroaching on the privacy of the guests. Seasense adopts a classic approach with a displacement hull powered by two Caterpillar engines delivering 1,380 kW each, ensuring performance in line with this style of boat and maximum comfort. With this configuration, Seasense achieves a top speed of 15.5 knots giving it a range of 5,000 nautical miles at a rate of 12 knots. Furthermore, a system of stabiliser fins significantly reduces rolling in a rough sea, both at anchor and during navigation.
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THE WORLD'S MOST LUXURIOUS BED By Anne Wheeler
The result of years of craftsmanship and a passion for perfection, Hästens Beds has created the ultimate sleeping experience. Considered to be the most elite and luxurious bed in the world, the Hästens Vividus is crafted from the finest natural materials available and with meticulous attention to detail. Described as ‘sleeping on a fluffy cloud’, the Latin name vividus translates directly to what we all aspire from a good night’s rest, ‘Full of Life’. Each bed, which is made by hand, takes between 140 and 160 man-hours to construct. Consequently, the Hästens Vividus represents quality and precision, designed especially for the purpose of divine sleep.>
Great care is put into choosing the finest materials to achieve ultimate luxury. For generations the master craftsmen and product developers at Hästens have focused on artfully layering the perfect balance of luxurious cotton, wool and horsehair for their product. With the use of these natural resources and an increased understanding of their properties, the Hästens craftsmen have uniquely mastered the process of maximising their best qualities. This knowledge, passed on from generation to generation, has equipped the modern Hästens craftsmen with the skills to build the Vividus, resulting in a bed, which allows one’s body to sink gently into the mattress, while still providing firm support. ‘The idea of building a bed completely by hand, solely by proven methods in the very finest natural materials has been our philosophy for a long time. With the Vividus we take everything a step further; we set out to create the ultimate bed, a bed with absolutely no compromises. We have done so, based on the accumulated knowledge of 160 years of bed building,’ says Jan Ryde, owner of Hästens Beds who represents the fifth generation of the family to head the company since it was established in 1852. Each component of the Vividus bed is given extensive attention and time. The frame alone takes a total of one week to construct and it is the foundation for its comfort and is built exclusively from the finest quality solid pinewood, sourced from the slow growing forests of Sweden. The mattress is a carefully balanced combination of horsehair, cotton and wool. The horsehair is hand teased and is said to help keep air flowing in the mattress keeping the body cool and moisture levels to a minimum. While these elements are responsible for the comfort of the mattress, it is the springs of the mattress that provide the key aspect of any good night’s sleep. Hästens is proud of the way their 18-centimeter ten-turn pocket spring system supports the body’s weight, they have gone as far as having it patented. In making the Vividus, Hästens craftsmen employ techniques that have been used in Swedish furniture making since the 1850s. Many of these techniques were discarded when the age of industrialization began. However, Hästens has defied the norm, maintaining their commitment to handcrafting every product, giving each Vividus a personal feel. ‘To use old world crafting techniques guarantees high quality.’ We are particularly careful in creating the Vividus. Each bed is made especially according to the customer’s wishes.’ says Jan Erik Leander, senior master craftsman at Hästens Beds. Like any genuine masterpiece, priced at an appropriate premium, Vividus is custom built for its owner and bears Leander’s signature, as well as a personalized engraved brass plaque signifying that the unique bed had been manufactured especially for its owner. Celebrities who have opted for this customized take on luxurious sleep include actor Tom Cruise, amongst others. Considered to be ‘an investment in a better quality of life’, the Vividus is only available at select Hästens stores. Due to its exclusivity, price is available on application, but it is roughly in the region of $150 000.
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WHITE DESERT
A
ntarctica the one place on the planet that remains beyond the scope of most, has never been occupied by man and can only be visited for a few months a year.
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By Daphne McFarlane
Should you be planning a super-luxurious holiday this year, one of your first considerations may be that you wish to escape the celebrity ‘rat race’ to spend time at a superior holiday destination and finding that place is becoming more difficult. Most destinations could be considered having been ‘tamed’ or colonised and there are queues and crowds to detract from your pleasure in many places. There is, however, one place on the planet that remains beyond the scope of most, has never been occupied by man and can only be visited for a few months a year. No towns, roads or any form of human life, apart from the occasional science research base, and never-ending open spaces in a grand, icy and unpredictable wilderness. This is Antarctica. Also, this is now readily available to us in South Africa as private flights carrying 12 people will depart from Cape Town on scheduled dates. Literally, on our doorstep and offered by White Desert Antarctica, this is a holiday with a difference, even a once in a lifetime trip. In addition, you are in the capable hands of the hosts and creators, Patrick and Robin Whitehead, and your itinerary has been meticulously and flawlessly planned so
you can enjoy every moment. The opportunity to visit one of the world’s greatest wildernesses, with its startlingly brilliant colours of oceans, mountains, glaciers and a horizon that never ends, is not to be missed. White Desert Antarctica is the only company in the world offering flights into the mysterious Antarctica by private jet, presenting the travel enthusiast with a revolutionary, adventurous and luxurious experience in one of the most unusual holiday resorts on earth. There are only four or five trips available each season, with a maximum group size of 12 people. Therefore, each year, just 48 elite and fortunate individuals make this journey. Fully booked for the past few years, Patrick, who acts as one of the tour guides, explains that most bookings are made one year in advance because for those most able to afford this excursion taking eight days out of their schedules is not always easy. In 2017, White Desert Antarctica is launching an even more luxurious
mode of travel for its select guests – an exclusive private jet service from Cape Town to Antarctica, offering superb comfort and style with a maximum of 12 guests on each flight. The first departure from Cape Town is scheduled for November and the Gulfstream G550 jet will fly the five and a half hours covering a distance of 4 000km over the formidable icepack of the Southern Ocean before emerging into 24 hours of continuous sunshine. ‘Arriving at White Desert Antarctica is like arriving nowhere else on the planet,’ says Robin Woodhead, co-founder of the luxury lodge located at the end of the earth, ‘After the private jet touches down on the blue-ice landing strip, its doors open and you’re hit with sub-zero temperatures. The cold can take your breath away.’ Patrick Woodhead, known for his record-breaking polar expeditions and his wife, Robin founded this place that offers a glimpse of the real Antarctica to its guests, with a bespoke luxury experience. As the first and only original camp in Antarctica, as well as the most isolated in the world, White Desert celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2016 by further upgrading and refurbishing its lodge. New custom-
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made fibreglass heated sleeping pods, with en-suite bathrooms for two occupants, a lounge with library and bar and a dining room with stunning round oak tables, surrounded by lavish fur chairs, are available. All the pods connect by structured passage ways sheltered from the icy cold. The ‘hands-on’ guides are experienced explorers and will lead guests on a variety of adventures, tempting those adrenalin junkies seeking a rush from abseiling into glacial crevasses, kite-skiing, high-lining between two ice peaks, rockclimbing and trekking through mazes or iridescent blue ice grottos, as well as visits to science bases and penguin colonies. On your return and for those enjoying the more relaxed version of this trip, the culinary delights made available by the resident chef, Justine Lindsey (Lewis Hamilton’s private chef) will delight the most sophisticated gourmet. It is no surprise that famous guests have included Bear Grylls, Prince Harry and Buzz Aldrin, royalty and affluent individuals seeking to experience a luxury polar safari. For the 2017/2018 season and beyond, White Desert will be offering guests a range of private jet trips from the camp with the iconic mountains known as Wolfs Fang in the background. For example, from the Whichaway Camp guests can choose the two-hour flight along the coast to see the penguins, a spectacle seen by very few. The flights are carbon neutral and the service maintained according to strict ecological guidelines. On board passengers will be served with a fantastic selection of delicacies and cocktails garnished with 1000-year-old glacial ice from Antarctica. The signature experience, the 8-day ‘Emperors and South Pole’, with a price tag of USD 80,000 per person (max group size: 12), is extraordinary and includes visits to the Amundsen-Scott American
Science Station, the enormous colony of 6 000 Emperor penguins and their newly hatched chicks, as well as a private flight over the High Polar Plateau to the lowest point of the planet, the Geographic South Pole. This trip offers travellers the possibility of seeing the heart of this foreign continent seldom visited but quite unbelievably beautiful. New possibilities on offer this season are the 4-day ‘Ice and Mountains’ adventure (USD 32,000 per person) also based at the Whichaway Camp located deep in the interior where guides will lead you to zip line over frozen lakes, science bases, ice climbing and day trips in 4x4s. The ‘Greatest Day’ is a private chartered one-day trip to Antarctica for those seeking only a glimpse of this icy world in a single day. Based in Cape Town, in conjunction with the newly renovated Ellerman House in Bantry Bay, an art-filled mansion overlooking the Indian Ocean, this blends creature comforts with adventure. Together with your 13 companions, at 195,000 USD per person (based on 14 pax), the jet departs from Cape Town at night. Upon arrival, you are transported to the Schirmacher Oasis on the northern coast of the continent. This 15.6-mile plateau with its 100 freshwater lakes is magical and the following six hours are spent trekking through the frozen countryside, exploring the ice tunnels in the glaciers or just enjoying the views before heading back to Cape Town after dinner. These new opportunities are designed to cater for those with little time to spare and who wish to experience the real interior of Antarctica. Already there is only limited space available and bookings are open for the 2018/2019 season. It must be noted that this once-off experience enjoyed by the world’s elite does hold some surprises for these guests. Patrick has
said, ‘We’ve had a few step off the plane, take one look at the weather and wanted to turn around and leave again’, and furthermore, ‘It’s not that simple. Only certain types of aircraft can land on the ice and they are specially chartered. So even if they say, “I’ll just call in my jet”, we have to tell them it’s not possible. They usually calm down when they wake up the next day and it’s sunny.’ The tours are precisely planned with great care to meet all requests and often these high-wealth influential individuals struggle to find themselves in a place where they have no control, and it sometimes can take a few days for them to relax and just enjoy the absence of responsibility. Of course, internet connection is available, so they can keep in touch but Patrick said that often they decide to let go and enjoy their time away. The camp operates a ‘zero-impact policy’ and has been fully carbon neutral since 2007, running predominantly on renewable energy. In early 2017, White Desert was shortlisted for two Environmental Impact Awards. It has been an active member of IAATO since 2007 and Robin Woodhead now sits on the association’s executive committee. At the end of each season, the camp is dismantled, leaving no evidence of its existence on the environment. The logistics of setting up and later eliminating all evidence requires maximum efficiency and organisation of multiple flights and careful planning in construction undertaken in these sub-zero temperatures that provide a challenge experienced by the few involved in development or interior design. For more information, contact Campbell Bell Communications: elena@campbell-bell.com: Tel: 0044 (0) 207 7311499 or visit www. white-desert.com
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TRAIN SUITE SHIKI-SHIMA
Japan’s deluxe cruise train
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Deluxe suite
T
By Joy Scott
he pleasure of rail travel or ‘rail cruises’ is becoming increasingly popular as contemporary travellers seek more exciting and unusual luxury travel experiences. Around the world there are remarkable choices available; from journeys offering historical perspectives or superb comfort and gourmet food, high mountain passes and merely the possibility of covering a vast distance in superior comfort while viewing the country from your compartment. The choice is yours and one of the most impressive and state-of-the-art trains to tempt the luxury traveller launched this year in Japan; the celebrated Train Suite Shiki-Shima. Shiki-Shima is an old name with ‘shiki’ meaning four seasons and ‘shima’ meaning island, therefore, ‘Island of Four Seasons’ and it captures the tradition and seasonal beauty that passengers experience as they relax and enjoy the changing scenery throughout the trip. Everyone wants to travel on this new deluxe 10-car cruise train accommodating just 34 passengers – also being the winner of the Good Design Award 2017. Cruise trains in Japan present a new mode of travel as high-tech luxury trains that stop at some of the most beautiful sightseeing locations. The Train Suite Shiki-Shima was launched by East Japan Railway (JR East) in May 2017 and tickets are already sold out until April 2018. The Train Suite Shiki-Shima is an extraordinary futuristic creation
with a choice of two- or four-day unique itineraries in Japan and this one is the latest in presenting a truly luxurious experience and is said to resemble a boutique hotel on wheels. The route has been carefully chosen to offer guests views of the beautiful seasonal scenery and also contact with lifestyles and cultures that live harmoniously with nature. Also, the company has a two-day, one-night package, with peaceful rural landscapes of woodlands, hills, terraced paddies and vineyards that leaves passengers with a sense of connection to each region. The scenery is dynamic and variable and passengers experience the metamorphoses of the four seasons and the beauty of their transience in each moment, combined with the pleasure of these discoveries. Ken Okuyama, renowned for his work with Ferrari and Porsche and other bullet trains, designed the fabulous interiors of this train, sometimes described as traditional Japanese aesthetics with a futuristic spirit. His flair for tapping into the contradictions that lie at the heart of Japan’s identity, fusing the old and the new, showcases his view of the future of tradition in Japan. The design of the train presents it as a stage that reveals the inspiring vistas of the country’s extraordinarily beautiful countryside, providing panoramic views as well as insights into the local cultures. The scenic route starts at Tokyo station and travels through the regions of Kanto, Tohoku and northernmost Hokkaido. The sleek observation cars form a book end at each end of the train.
Deluxe suite
Lounge
Standard suite
Dining area
At the Ueno Station in Tokyo, just boarding this train is magical. A Harry Potter - style platform 13 ½ was constructed for its exclusive use, and due to the popularity of this service, an application form must be filled out for a ride rather than just buying a ticket and those chosen are selected by lottery. There is a lounge available to passengers at the departure station where passengers gather; this is not traditional Japanese style, but more elegant and modern, preparing guests for the lavish atmosphere they are about to experience. For the first trip in May 2017, only one out of every 76 applicants was successful. Travellers walk along a red carpet before arriving at the entrance of this ultramodern vehicle decorated in champagne and gold, with geometric cut windows and many opulent and inspired touches. Energy saving contemporary chandeliers, intricate hand-cut glassware and metal branches in the forestinspired lounge create an out-of-this-world environment. In terms of speed, this train has been designed with pleasure over pace, unlike other modern trains in Japan, travelling at 110 kph compared to the fastest bullet train which operates at 320 kph. However, the technology is cutting edge with an advanced electric diesel control system allowing it to travel on either electric or diesel lines and the engines showcased by glass walls so that the engine, the driver with his control panel and conductor can be viewed at any time.
The custom-made glass-walled lead car, painted on the exterior in champagne gold with a glassed wall on all four sides, offers an unparalleled panoramic view of the forests, fields and sights of the area. This exceptional design gives a sense of openness as the light shines through the windows. The observation cars are entered via scarlet-red corridors and a white framework with abstract cutout windows and furnishings of contemporary Italian leather sofas and chairs with a carpet of varying greens add a natural dimension to each carriage. A piano bar in the five-star lounge offers piano recitals, which also serves as the entrance to the train, with walls and windows designed to suggest ‘a quiet forest’. A fireplace at its centre adds to the sense of relaxation and this train has its own signature tune ‘Train Suite’! Michelin starred head chef, Katsuhiro Nakamara, changes the dining car menu according to the style and cuisine of the regions along the route. Dinner on the first night of the trip is followed by a live performance of the Japanese ‘Dance of the Dead’, designated as ‘An Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property’. Subtle and elegant dishes prepared with infinite care include seasonal ingredients carefully sourced from the region and presented to diners seated at half-moon shaped tables on one side and square tables on the other side of the carriage. These alone are an exercise in contemporary expertise and craftsmanship. Every piece of dining ware is of the finest quality available, square black lacquer placemats with custom-
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designer cutlery made by craftsmen and women whose work normally graces the tables of Noble Prize Award-ceremony banquets and Edo kiriko-style glasses from Kobayashi Glass in Tokyo. Furthermore, for dining outside the train, local chefs provide dishes in each location, with selected menus supervised by the train’s head chef. There are 17 suites available, with contrasting dark panels of warm cedar and red lacquerware, and futon beds are set up after dark and modern washi-style lanterns provide the lighting. There are two spacious split-level suites available and the maisonette-style Suite Room with two storeys is the most superior suite available for those extra-special passengers. All passenger cabins are en-suite, incorporating the traditional essence of beautiful Japanese style with a sense of the spirit of the future and a 24-hour butler service is available. More stunning features include the light-filled bathrooms with deep square traditional baths made of hinoki cypress wood and placed beneath a window with a delicate sliding screen. Superior suites have woven tatami mat areas with sunken seating, glass fireplaces and bespoke Swarovski binoculars are available for these elite passengers. Corridors to these suites are classically Japanese with white latticework panels featuring floral motifs using the Kumiko woodwork technique, Japanese paper and lacquer, copper and lead foil and a ceiling lined with handmade strips of metal. This rail cruise offers its exclusive passengers a magical, innovative experience with its combination of contemporary Japanese design and technology while passing through some of the wonders of Japan and should, without doubt, be added to that specialised ‘bucket list’ of luxury experiences. Shiki-shima maisonnette suite
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A
By Diane Stadler
bout a decade ago, cryptocurrencies appeared on the market starting a process of redefining how we identify and handle financial transactions. The most remarkable part of its arrival was not only the currency but the core technology permitting these types of transactions to be extremely practical and efficient – the blockchain. The blockchain is irrefutably ingenious, the brainchild of a person or group of individuals known by the pseudonym, Satoshi Nakamoto, and has created the backbone for a new type of internet. Initially devised as an international digital currency, it is now developing further as other uses are found for its technology. When purchasing cryptocurrency, you don’t need to know how blockchain actually works, but as an essential part of trading in these areas, knowledge of how it operates is valuable. In essence, it is a spreadsheet duplicated thousands of times across computer networks that regularly update the information. This worksheet is shared and continually reconciled, so the information is readily verifiable, and as there is no centralised version, it is extremely difficult to hack or nearly impossible and has the highest degree of accountability and guaranteed transactions due to its transparency. Also, no single entity can control it, and there is no single point of failure. Bitcoin was invented in 2008 and has operated without any significant disruption since that time, apart from human error. Cryptocurrencies are a form of digital money or virtual currency designed for security and frequently, for its anonymity. It is a digital asset intended as a medium of exchange using cryptography to secure and verify transactions. The currency is linked to the internet, converting legible information through encryption into an almost uncrackable code for purchases and transfers. The first cryptocurrency was Bitcoin and it >
The peer-to-peer network has no centralised server
CRYPTO CURRENCIES
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remains the most well-known, although there are now over 1000 available. Today, they are a global phenomenon but remain slightly geeky and misconstrued by many. However, institutions such as banks and large companies are aware of its importance. At present, there are only a minimal number of organisations that have not researched, published a paper or started a ‘blockchain-project’. However, despite all the publicity most of us have only limited knowledge. Cryptocurrencies were a side product of another invention by Satoshi Nakamoto, the unknown inventor of Bitcoin, who never intended to create a currency. Initially, he called it ‘A Peer-to-Peer Electronic Cash System’. He aimed to invent digital cash, an idea previously attempted but without success and he announced the first release of Bitcoin on 9 January 2009. The most crucial element of this invention was the creation of a decentralised digital cash system. This was the birth of cryptocurrency. There has to be a payment network with accounts, balances and transactions to create a system that realises digital cash, but the biggest problem is to avoid double spending, preventing one entity from spending the same amount twice, usually undertaken by a central server that records the balances. In a decentralised network, this server does not exist, so every single entity of the system is involved in this process. Therefore, every peer in the network needs a list of all dealings to check the validity of future transactions and identify attempts to double spend. The obvious difficulty is how to do this. If any peer in the network disagrees with one single minor balance it breaks, and a central authority is usually needed to affirm the correct state of balances. Until Satoshi emerged, no one believed it was possible. The solution was cryptocurrencies. A simple definition is that these are limited entries in a database that cannot be changed without fulfilling certain conditions and this simple statement precisely defines how you specify a currency. A cryptocurrency like Bitcoin, for instance, consists of a network of peers and each peer has a complete record of the history of all deals and accordingly, the balance of the account. A transaction is a simple file that says A gives X Bitcoin to B signed by A’s private key and after signature, it transmits throughout the network. Therefore, a cryptocurrency is a medium of exchange created and maintained in the blockchain electronically, using encryption techniques to regulate the creation of monetary units and verify the transfer of funds. It has no intrinsic value, so it is not redeemable for another commodity, has no physical form and the supply is determined by the bank and completed transactions. The transaction is immediately publicised on the network but only confirmed after a specific amount of time – this confirmation is critical to the process. An unconfirmed or pending transaction may not be real, once confirmed it is set in stone and cannot be forged, reversed and is part of a permanent record of the blockchain. ‘Miners’ use their computers to validate and timestamp transactions adding them to the ledger following a particular timestamping scheme – they are mutually distrustful parties who have a financial incentive to maintain the security of the ledger. They confirm transactions and once done, these spread to every node in its database. After this, miners are rewarded with a token of the cryptocurrency and the activity of the miner is the single most critical part of cryptocurrency. Satoshi established a rule that miners
must invest some of the work of their computers to qualify for this task, they have to find a hash, which is a product of a cryptographic function, to connect the new block with its predecessor and this process is called the Proof-of-Work. It is not necessary to understand the more complex details of the process. However, it is the basis of the cryptologic puzzle miners compete to solve before they can build a block and add it to the blockchain. The difficulty of this puzzle increases the mound of computer power the miners invest in, as only an exact quantity of cryptocurrency tokens can be created in any given amount of time. This is part of the agreement and cannot be broken. Essentially, cryptocurrencies are entries about tokens in decentralised consensus databases built on cryptography. There are two types of properties; transactional and monetary and although most cryptocurrencies share standard features, they can differ. They are irreversible, pseudonymous, fast and global, secure and do not require permission. Furthermore, they are problematic to counterfeit, and its most attractive allure is that it is not issued by any central authority and is, therefore, immune to government interference or manipulation. Cryptocurrencies make it easy to transfer funds between parties, but also make it well suited to a range of nefarious activities such as tax evasion or money laundering. There are minimal processing fees. The genius of the process is the blockchain, which prevents hackers, due to the online ledger maintained in the blockchain. Many view these blockchains as having an important future in technologies such as crowdfunding and lowering transaction costs in major financial institutions. A backup system is vital in avoiding the history being erased by a computer crash and the rate of the cryptocurrency can fluctuate widely, based on supply and demand. The system can be hacked, apparently in the case of Bitcoin about 40 times, so it is not immune from this threat, but this has not prevented investors in seeing this type of currency as viable and valuable. Cryptocurrencies can be broken down into smaller units in the same way as the Rand is broken into cents and the smallest is the satoshi, named after its inventor, representing one hundred millionth of a Bitcoin and can be converted from one currency to another. By not being available in a physical form, Bitcoins are seen as more secure and because of this fact, they cannot be used in everyday transactions. As of September 2017, over 1000 cryptocurrency specifications existed, mostly similar and derived from the original fully implemented Bitcoin. At present, cryptocurrencies continue to strengthen with new ones appearing daily. Investors seem undeterred by the prospect of this bubble bursting and, if you are willing to take the risk, the returns can be substantial. For example, during May 2017 the first ‘Bitcoin exchange’-then called the BitcoinMarket.com - listed all 16,706,425 units of Bitcoin at USD 0.003. In June 2010, in only five days, the price increased by 1000% from USD 0.008 to USD 0.08 for one full Bitcoin. Since then the growth has been phenomenal and, at the time of writing this editorial, a single Bitcoin is valued at nearly USD 12,000. Several industry experts believe that the price of one Bitcoin will reach between USD 500,000 and one million USD in the next few years. Some popular cryptocurrencies include Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin and Ripple, amongst many others.
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NEW YEAR, NEW YOU By Dr. Anushka Reddy
Are you looking forward to a renewed you in 2018? Rejuvenation by way of aesthetic procedures is the answer - from a non-surgical, painfree facelift to wrinkle and acne scar removals, or non-surgical body contouring – there is always something in the aesthetic medicine to help you step into the New Year with confidence. Here are the top non-surgical procedures that, according to me, will take the spotlight this year:
pressure oxygen and infra-red light to increase blood flow to the face. This is an ideal treatment which promises instant radiance before a red carpet event. These treatments are the very essence of beauty and care, giving the relaxation and pampering of a facial, with the underlying benefits of medically-proven skincare products. Medical facials are also popular because they can be tailored to the skincare needs of the individual, require no downtime and may be more affordable than many other treatments.
Medical Facials
Lip enhancements
Consumers are turning to non-surgical facial aesthetic treatments, during which specially formulated products to penetrate the skin for long-lasting, deeper results, are used. I predict that medical facials such as the LOL facial (lift/oxygen/lights) will be big news in 2018 and beyond. The triple treatment uses the Venus Viva radiofrequency device to tighten the skin; the Intraceuticals oxygen facial to infuse hyaluronic acid and vitamins into the skin, using high
The popularity of TV personalities such as Kim Kardashian and Kylie Jenner has done little to abate during 2017. Kylie’s lips, in particular, continue to attract a huge volume of Google searches, with countless individuals wanting to emulate her fuller pout. According to Google Trends, Juvederm and Juvederm Volbella have both seen a spike in interest over the past months and lip enhancement remain a muchdesired treatment for 2018.
Dr. Anushka Reddy
Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy – The ‘Vampire’ Facial Over the past five years, interest in PRP Therapy – dubbed the ‘Vampire’ Facial – has been steadily growing with the some noticeable spikes, especially when Kim Kardashian was filmed having the treatment in 2013. I predict demand for PRP Therapy will continue to grow in 2018. It ticks the boxes for what patients are seeking right now – an antiageing treatment that has minimal side effects or downtime and uses the platelet rich plasma from the patient’s own blood rather than chemical or synthetic products. Cellulite reduction For those looking to target cellulite specifically, Cellfina is the only FDA-approved procedure to last for two years, but it is not for the faint of heart. Using a tiny oscillating needle and local anaesthesia,
this device cuts the fibrous cords that sit under each cellulite dimple, tethering the skin down and creating a smoother appearance. Patients are able to return to work the next day and even workout within one week. Chemical peels Dating back to the Egyptians, chemical peels have long been a favourite for revitalising the skin. With a wide range of combinations of acids and enzymes in various concentrations, from mild and moderate to deep, aestheticians can treat sun damage, brown spots, wrinkles, acne and improve lackluster skin tone and texture with peels. Gone are the days of the red, blistering post-peel skin and having to hide away. It may at times be tempting to order your own high concentration solutions on the Internet, but it is advisable that one should rather consult with your skin care professional >
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before trying aggressive peels on your own to avoid any possible adverse events. Waves of change for Medi-Sculpt in 2018 Consumers looking for the latest trends in the aesthetics industry are showing a strong preference towards non-invasive treatments that can give quicker, safer and more natural-looking results than surgical interventions. Patients want to come into a clinic and be pampered, receive a bespoke treatment that is relevant to their skin, and leave looking fantastic. They want value for money, to know that as well as helping them to look good, a treatment or product is continuing to enhance their look. Looking forward to the New Year, I am proud to announce the grand opening of Medi-Sculpt Clinic in Johannesburg during March 2018, at a fabulous 5 star hotel. This clinic is being designed with the needs of discerning patients in mind. The new facilities will offer all the above treatments and more, in a private and discrete setting and is located 15 minutes from Lanseria Airport.
About Dr. Anushka Reddy Dr. Anushka Reddy is a GP with a special interest in cosmetic dermatology and advanced aesthetics. Her skills, experience, personality and media presence have earned her a reputation as one of South Africa’s most respected cosmetic doctors. As a female doctor, Dr Anushka Reddy understands firsthand the demands of balancing long working hours and caring for one’s physical well-being. She now divides her time between her medical practice, teaching, training and as the President of the Cosmetic Doctors Association of South Africa, attending regular cosmetic dermatology conferences to give talks on the latest in aesthetics. Dr. Reddy sees cosmetic medicine as an art, as well as a science. She believes that the best cosmetic outcomes are natural and enhancing, ultimately improving the patients’ sense of self and well-being. Her passion in cosmetic medicine, attention to detail and caring attitude are evident from the first time you meet her. It is not surprising that her patients find her affable and approachable manner very reassuring.
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THE LAST PRIDES OF
By Megan Muller
This magnificent creature, whose courage and strength has been celebrated and held in the highest esteem over the eons, has captivated mankind. Some of the oldest cave paintings discovered, such as those in the ‘Grotte Chauvet’ cave in France attest to man’s eternal fascination with the great king of the jungle. Great leaders have been named after the lion, statues have been built and emblems carved in its glory. Lions have existed in our earliest childhood memories, standing for strength and nobility, yet ironically the king of all beasts is now threatened by the very hands that once glorified it.
“There was a time when lions roamed freely and ruled the hierarchy of the animal chain across the Americas, Europe, Asia and most of Africa. Many cultures have echoed their legends, from the ancient Egyptians and Indians to the Greeks and Romans. Today sadly, they are only found in the wild in sub-Saharan Africa with a very small population in the Gir Peninsula of north-west India.”
Images l Martin Harvey
Decline in numbers Able to survive in diverse terrain, with territories ranging from lush woodlands to savannah grasslands and semi-desert regions, these cats’ numbers have declined drastically over the last 20 years. There are currently only about 15 000 lions remaining in the wild, numbering less than the rhinos, elephants, chimpanzees and polar bears. Understanding that these felines are sociable cats living in groups known as prides, these figures are highly alarming and urgent measures need to be taken by Africa’s leaders in order to ensure the preservation of our heritage and to protect the pride of Africa. >
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Canned Lion Hunting and Lion Farming practices Apart from having their natural range diminished by the encroachment of humans and rapid urbanization, lions are also under threat from trophy hunters and a much criticised form of hunting known as ‘canned lion hunting’. This type of hunting now affords the hunter the opportunity of a guaranteed kill by making the lion available within an enclosed area, without any true possibility of escape. In most instances the animal is partly tame and not afraid of human beings. ‘Canned lion hunting’ is only legal in South Africa, where ranchers and breeders are now farming these wild cats as a commercial concern in order to offer a readily available supply of lions to satisfy the demands of the hunting fraternity. In addition, such lion farming is supporting the Asia-Africa trade for body parts, specifically, bones used for Asian traditional medicines. Many of these farms also encourage ‘petting opportunities’ in which the public are invited to play with and handle the lion cubs. These provides funds from a public who are mostly unaware that their actions are assisting these farms to rear cubs into adult lions for the purpose of their fate - to be hunted by the humans they have learnt to trust. It is argued that hunting pays for conservation, however, when the impression is created that the only way to protect a species is by hunting it then this is surely just a means of legalizing institutionalized cruelty. Another concern is the state of society’s values when it becomes acceptable and justifiable to farm lions, the pinnacle of the Big Five and a symbol and essence of Africa, and hold them in captivity for sport and slaughter. The hunting fraternity and various conservation authorities believe that lion farms will reduce poaching pressure on wild lions. Chris Mercer, a retired Advocate in South Africa who works consistently to raise awareness for the plight of the African Lion, disagrees. He argues that most farmers need to supply fresh lions into the captive prides, since they suffer from inbreeding and captivity depression. In order to satisfy this need, wild lions are often captured illegally and introduced to captive prides. Mercer also points out the growing lion-bone trade and says that most of these traders find it cheaper to supply lion bones from poached wild lions than actually paying the breeding farmers, which would deplete their profits.
While South Africa has the most liberal hunting laws, there is simultaneously the highest levels of poaching. Mercer points out that there is a huge corruption of the data supplied for the granting of hunting licenses by neighbouring countries. Many hunters want their trophies to be registered in the Rowland Ward trophy book, which does not recognize any trophies from South Africa; they know that these may come from captive bred lions. In order to avoid this, many resourceful farmers will fly the hunter and darted lion to a neighbouring country, such as Mozambique. For this reason more and more lion trophies are being exported from Mozambique and by doing this the authorities are tempted to increase hunting quotas for wild lions under the misguided belief that there are more wild lions actually in existence. According to Mercer, lion farming for ‘canned hunting’ will poison lion conservation throughout South Africa and tarnish our reputation worldwide, especially among tourists wanting to support countries that respect and promote eco-tourism.
Promoting Eco-tourism Although hunting of lions is permitted and completely legal in 11 Sub-Saharan countries in Africa, countries like Botswana, Zambia and Kenya have taken a stand, moving towards Eco-tourism and protecting the jewels of their land. Botswana is a land with diverse and untouched wildlife habitats and home to one of the world’s largest inland deltas; the tourism experiences here are unrivalled by anywhere else in the world. This country has recognized the long-term benefits of ecological preservation and, under the strong and commendable leadership of President Lieutenant General Seretse Khama Ian Khama, has recently announced a ban on all trophy hunting within its territory. Kenya made the decision to ban trophy hunting in 1977 under their founding president, Jomo Kenyatta. This strong and positive action against the decline of the African lion has also been adopted by Zambia, which is now testing the waters of this movement for a temporary twelve-month period.
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Eco-tourism has been shown to generate far greater and more sustainable results over the long term than those offered by the hunting industry. Eco-tourism can provide job creation and extensive skills training, which was highlighted in a report from a November 2004 study by the University of Port Elizabeth. Estimations are that eco-tourism on private game reserves has generated ‘more than 15 times the income of livestock, game rearing or overseas hunting’. It is hoped that South Africa will follow this same movement in support of eco-tourism and that our lions will eventually be honoured with protected status in the country’s general regulations on Threatened and Protected Species (TOPS). In addition, it is expected that ‘canned lion hunting’ will be banned in all countries across Africa, and furthermore that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Authority will raise the status of lions to ‘endangered’. Following such a call to action, Europe and the US should move to ban all imports of trophy and lion body parts. When a country makes a positive commitment to preserve and protect what nature has provided, such a decision should be supported by tourists who visit Africa, wanting to enjoy the richness of the land for now and future generations. With special thanks to Chris Mercer and Pieter Kat for their input and guidance in creating this article. Please support Chris Mercer in his non-profit organization (LionAid) campaign against canned lion hunting, which is dedicated to getting all trophy hunting banned in South Africa by visiting www.cannedlion.org Chris Mercer has also published a book with Beverly Pervan called ‘Kalahari Dream’, the proceeds of which will be donated to the anti-canned lion hunting initiative. Pieter Kat, Director of LionAid based in the UK, has established a NPO to fight for the betterment and protection of the lion species in Africa. LionAid tackles the challenge of convincing the UK Government and the EU to ban importation of lion trophies; works with African range states to enhance national protection measures and reduce human/lion conflict and is developing novel ways forward to stem the illegal wildlife trade: www.lionaid.org.
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SEGERA RETREAT ‘It is said that Africa changes one forever’ By Paula Wilson
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I
t is said that visiting Africa changes one forever. This is certainly the case when one visits the award-winning Segera Retreat situated in the heart of the Laikipia Plateau and nestled between the glorious Mount Kenya and the Great Rift Valley in the central highlands of Kenya. Laikipia Plateau is known as the gateway to Kenya’s untamed northern frontier and is a magical wildlife sanctuary of nearly 10 000 square kilometres. Segera Retreat was created by the German entrepreneur and environmentalist, Jochen Zeitz, the former CEO of PUMA and is the only hotel in Africa to have made both the UK and USA Conde Nast Traveller’s 2014 Hot Lists of the editors’ favourite new places to stay. In 2008 when Jochen Zeitz heard that Segera was for sale he took the first flight to Kenya. Jochen immediately fell in love with this land and within 48 hours he had bought Segera and founded the ‘Zeitz Foundation for Intercultural Ecosphere Safety’ with the motto ‘acting today for a better tomorrow’. The goal of this foundation is to create and support sustainable, ecologically and socially responsible projects and destinations. The aim is to achieve longlasting impact and sustainability through the holistic balance of Conservation, Community, Culture and Commerce (the 4Cs) in privately managed areas. The movie ‘Out of Africa’, winner of seven Oscars, conjures romantic images of quintessential African scenery with abundant wildlife and rich tribal cultures. Pivotal to the movie was the yellow 1929 vintage Gipsy Moth biplane, the same type that soared above the dramatic landscapes when flown by Denys Finch Hatton. This aircraft became one of the most recognisable features of the film as it told the story of the passionate romance between pioneer Denys Finch Hatton (Robert Redford) and Karen Blixen (Meryl Streep) . As an anonymous telephone bidder Jochen Zeitz bought the same Gipsy Moth at a Paris auction for a record price of over €200 000 in 2013. Jochen has restored the biplane and returned it to its spiritual home in Kenya and now, once again, it has taken to the skies above Kenya, piloted by Jochen. To add to the entire ‘Out of Africa’ experience Jochen contracted the award-winning South African firm, LIFE INTERIOR DESIGN, ARCHITECTURE & CREATIVE DIRECTION to conceptualize and design this wildlife sanctuary that offers visitors a unique experience of supreme luxury amidst natural beauty. The talented and accredited LIFE architects and designers headed by CEO, Maira Koutsoudakis and her husband John Koutsoudakis. With their associate Tony Pereira they draw upon their experience gained from projects in diverse geographical locations to craft dreams which transcend style.
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With Mount Kenya in the background Segera Retreat is spectacular. It is surrounded by the unspoiled African landscape and set in a diverse botanical garden filled with exotic native plants and African wildlife. Segera offers eight state-of-the-art accommodation units including six exquisite timber and thatch villas, Segera House and Villa Segera. The six villas are built on elevated wooden platforms surrounded by panoramic views. Each villa is uniquely decorated with authentic African artworks, featuring its own outside private deck with lounge chairs and swinging beds for soaking up the African sun, plus a private outdoor hot tub; truly a most delightful, tranquil setting. The luxurious stone-clad Segera House has a magnificent reception area. The double and twin bedrooms, each with an en suite bathroom, share a lounge, a raised outside deck area, a private sala, a garden and a plunge pool. Segera House comes complete with a private villa attendant. Villa Segera is the perfect romantic retreat for two consisting of two wooden buildings linked by a swing bridge. This villa features a private veranda, a superb lounge area and is decorated with fine antiques and art. There is a sunken hide for watching game, a private garden complete with salt-water pool; a vintage Rolls Royce and a Toyota Land Cruiser complete this extraordinary villa. The Segera Retreat lifestyle is focused on the conservation of the landscape and its resources, the local community and its culture. It is designed to inspire your soul as much as your senses while promoting practices that impact upon the environment and the community in a positive manner. Situated on 50 000 acres of land, Segera Retreat is a wildlife sanctuary offering a unique experience of utmost luxury and personal enrichment from conscientious, sustainable living. In the true style of the retreat, menus are created from the freshest ingredients from their own fruit and vegetable garden, or sourced from neighbouring farms. Meals can be enjoyed al fresco by the communal pool, in your villa’s private lounge area, in one of the three
dining areas or in the wine tower where their unique selection of wines is always available. The Wellness Centre offers guests a wide range of luxuries supporting a culture of wellness through their holistic treatments and therapies. Massages can be enjoyed en suite or at the spa, which also boasts a Rasul Steam Tower, a salt-water swimming pool and a state-of-the-art gymnasium. The wealth of wildlife at Segera is awe-inspiring. It is home to lion, buffalo, elephant, eland, giraffe, Beisa oryx, Grevy’s zebra and patas monkeys amongst many others that co-exist with more than 3000 head of cattle. Guests have the opportunity to help with activities such as reforestation and monitoring the population of endangered animal species. Expertly managed game drives are also available. Segera also hosts one of the largest contemporary African art collections including an image gallery by German photographer, Michael Poliza. Characterised by its grassy and wooded savannah, numerous waterfalls and natural streams, Segera Retreat is an exclusive private retreat; an example of just how luxurious sustainability can be. It is simply an oasis, a place of beauty where art and aesthetic experience surround you at every turn.
EDITOR’S NOTE: For more information about Segera and LIFE Group visit: www. segera.com or www.lifeinteriordesign.com
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DIGITAL vs PRINT By Juliette Corrin
The question as to why luxury magazines, such as Le Kap, continue to invest in print and their sales continue to increase in our everincreasing digital world is a subject of some vigorous debates and research internationally. There are many different perspectives offered by influential individuals in the media, both positive and negative regarding the future of these premium magazines. Many high-end magazines have developed a digital identity, but they continue to invest in print and their sales are increasing. The first comparison of print and digital makes it evident that there are items that each can offer that the other cannot. Print provides particular elements of luxury that digital cannot aspire to match while digital provides a quicker turnaround time and makes it easy to work remotely. Print is not dead but is becoming a luxury in itself, and it appears that for those luxurious and ambitious brands, it is the medium to use to convey their brand cues. Digital is here to stay and provides an essential form of consumer interaction, in other words, a point of contact. However, for those with refined qualities of perception and authority, print is and just remains miles ahead, frequently presenting a more personal touch sought by discriminating clientele.
see it, and this simple fact works against the exclusivity of luxury brands. High-end magazines offered at premium prices ensure reader quality to those who purchase these journals, viewing them and their content as exclusive and retaining their brand proposition of exclusivity in comparison to a free-to-view website where their brand may become too accessible. This is a dilemma for luxury brands, making them reticent towards digital advertising. It also suggests that those brand names using the print medium know their target market and have confidence in the products they have on offer.
Luxury magazines strive to present their publications in a manner that suggests to the reader that craftsmanship and care, as well as time and effort, have gone into its production and this can be seen in the final project. High-quality glossy paper with fantastic outof-this-world photography and crisp images all combine to make for a superb, perceptible and visual experience. Digital cannot offer this type of quality and even if the website provides the most sophisticated experience, anyone with access to the internet can
There have been some brands that decided to go digital only and the results seem to suggest that their presence has declined or even disappeared from the web. In an article produced for the Association of the Magazine Media, Samir Husni, director of the Magazine Innovation Center at the University of Mississippi, has an interesting question. ‘When a print magazine is about to draw its last breath of ink, is digital really a life support for it, or just prolonging the inevitable ‌ defining a vegetative state as new life?’ In other
Advertising in these luxury magazines has abundant advantages because of modern and innovative technology that creates highresolution detailed images in a size that most of the smaller digital devices like tablets or cell phones cannot provide to the viewer. There is no argument that luxury brands are using digital media to promote their products but they remain invested in print because of the sophisticated appearance of the publication. They know their market and that print is effective as customers enjoy looking at the magazines and are aware of the careful and classy presentation.
words, changing the medium is not going to fix anything, it is the magazine that is the problem. Only a few magazine publishers can survive the experience of taking the publications entirely digital due to the loss of advertisement revenue. Most of the more significant brands will never attempt to present an online campaign that is not accompanied by a print advertisement in the same month. Luxury brands need a 360-degree marketing experience without disconnecting from any medium such as digital, print or billboards and maintaining their consistency is vital. The future appears to be ‘print and digital’ rather than ‘print or digital’ as they sustain each other. The appearance of an audience known as super-users who access both digital and print magazine platforms to strengthen their link with their favourite magazine brands note that these brands are inspirational and relaxing and, on a practical level, more useful for generating rather elite ideas. Most significantly, these super-users consider this dual approach to be the best method of keeping up to date while following a passion or just reading for entertainment. So, the multiplatform existence is anchoring magazines even deeper into the lives of the audience, which is good news for advertisers as their promotions in magazines continue to the consumers and super-users are a very receptive audience for advertisers. Readers who consider themselves digital-only or print-only are discovering the joys of printed magazines and surveys have established that a third stated they would read printed magazines in the next twelve months. The luxury magazine market enters the arena here as it allows luxury brands to send their message to a curated and premium audience
due to high engagement and quality of its content. Furthermore, they appear to be resisting the advertiser and reader exodus eroding much of the magazine market. The allure of a luxury magazine allows the reader to move into a different mode, that ‘magazine moment’ linked to the high sheen of the paper, the type of print used and apparently, the smell of money and desire that wafts off the page - advertisers understand this. Consumer magazines are losing advertising while the luxury market is said to be breaking records. As an example, Vogue produced its centenary issue in June, featuring the Duchess of Cambridge on the cover with a total of 464 pages – the biggest ever – with 264 pages of advertising! There are many others with similar records that prove that the glossy magazine market that produces those attractive glossy coffee table style periodicals is forecast as the prime medium for advertising as they know their competitors will all be in there and these are number one for the advertisers. These brand companies include luxury goods such as jewellery and couture fashion and they appear to spend nearly three-quarters of their budget on print advertising. However, digital has increased the ability for content and discovery and the print media needs to compete with this. Luxury magazines need to appeal to their curated and premium readership in the presentation of the content, providing information on luxury products, to reach their clientele. Luxury experiences available to the wealthy should also be shared as these are gaining in popularity in contemporary audiences. Presented in a sleek and glossy magazine format that lies easily upon a coffee table, with engaging by-lines on the cover, there is little doubt that luxury magazines are here to stay.
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EXCLUSIVE CARDS
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By Marion Pfeiffer
here are new, super-exclusive, in fact, entirely out of this world credit cards finding their place in the pockets of the wealthiest citizens around the world and such cards are becoming increasingly desirable. So, the obvious question is how to get one and what do they offer that makes them so special? Here is a list of some of these super-smart embossed little items and what they offer. American Express (aka the Black Card) was the initial and often regarded as the most well-known credit card and now several more have joined its ranks to cater to those who can afford these superior cards. These cards are nearly always invite-only and offer quite amazing rewards accompanied by ridiculous annual fees in addition to your ‘spending a required yearly’ amount. The Amex Centurion card was presented in 1999 to the clientele who meet their extensive eligibility criteria. A USD 7,500 initiation fee is one of the requirements with its yearly account fee of USD 2,500 and clients willing to spend around USD 250,000 annually. The Eurasian Bank Diamond Card features a 0.02-carat diamond surrounded by a golden heart design and is simply a sign of elegance through and through. The requirements are that you
should be a customer of the Eurasian Bank in Kazakhstan and your bank balance must be at least USD 300,000. Dubai’s First Royal Card is invitation-only and only available to royalty and ‘high-class’ clients in the UAE region. This card has a white .235 carat solitaire diamond set on a black background with two of its edges trimmed in gold. The entry requirements are not known although the opening fee is rumoured to be extremely high and the befits quite extraordinary. Visa’s Infinite cards are reserved for countries outside of the USA and have different rewards based on the countries and banks that offer them, all of which are elite and fashionable. One of the most wellknown is Sberbank’s limited edition Visa Infinite companion card made of solid gold and embedded with 26 diamonds. Originating from Sberbank-Kazakhstan, it provides access to a ‘Sberbank First’ personal manager, preferential treatment at some of the world’s best golf courses, luxury retreats and fast-track immigration at more than 280 airports internationally. In the USA, the Chase (JPM) Sapphire Preferred Card offers exclusivity to those who would rather not bank with Visa or Amex
(AXP) and aims at households earning a minimum of USD 120,000 per annum. Also, this card has no spending limits and a strong rewards programme. Other differences from alternative black cards include identity protection for a small fee of USD 95 per year, enhanced travel rewards, rental and travel protection insurance, emergency travel assistance and extended warrantee protection for up to one year. The Santander Group (BSBR) in Brazil offers the unlimited Brazilian Black MasterCard (MA) only issued to private bank customers with a specific undisclosed amount of funds in their bank accounts. Currently viewed as one of the hottest cards in Latin America, there are only about 3,000 in circulation. Perks include lounge access at all airports, private jet discounts, 24-hour concierge service and an annual fee of USD 349. Citigroup is not left behind. The Black Chairman MasterCard is for elite cardholders who can afford the USD 500 annual fee and are at present private wealthy clients of Smith Barney or CitiBank. Access to most available perks on the market is included with the most notable being the USD 300,000 credit limit available to the 5 per cent of the US population lucky enough to own one.
The Black Bull Card from Merrill Lynch has been replaced by the Merrill Lynch Octave Black Bull Card and is available by invitation to their highest-net-worth clients. There are no known spending limits and perks can easily amount to over USD 350 while the annual fees are a hefty USD 950. The card is limited to 5 per cent of US residents and offers the usual bells and whistles expected and the requirements depend on your personal credit and finance information to see if you make the grade. NatWest offers a Black MasterCard with an outrageously colossal USD 1,500,000 spending limit and a priority pass to all airport lounges. Annual fees must be considered a bargain at USD 395 for this accessory and all the usual perks expected from black cards are available. There are more on the market and more appearing. Some worth mentioning are the JP Morgan Palladium (laser engraved and made from 24k gold and palladium), Coutts World Silk Card (estimated client base less than 100, minimum disposable cash USD 1,200,000), MasterCard Gold card and Stratus Rewards Visa, but they are just a few in a rapidly growing specialist market for those who meet the eligibility criteria.
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DESTINATIONS By Marion Pfeiffer
As many of us seek to travel and plan to visit new destinations each year, 2018 again offers the potential of a vast number of exciting opportunities. However, the most challenging decision in this regard is which experience or experiences to choose to include in your travel priorities for this year. For those who travel frequently and extensively, making this decision can be quite overwhelming, especially when so many exciting and adventurous destinations are becoming available as the world becomes one huge, must-see place. Some of the remarkable places are relatively unknown as tourist destinations and here we seek to uncover just a few of these to titillate your travel interests and add to your bucket list for 2018. HAWAII’S NORTH SHORE Hawaii has long been on the list of essential journeys and most famous for its spectacularly enormous waves and surfing competitions, particularly along the North Shore with the legendary glassy winter waves attracting the best surfers in the world at Waimea Bay, Ehukai (Banzai Pipeline) and Sunset Beach. Pristine white sandy beaches with sparkling turquoise waters, delicate coral reefs, lush mountains, tree-lined roads, vibrant sunsets, the incredible North Shore offers more than just surfing and is being recognised internationally as a desirable destination. The gentler summer waves along the seven-mile stretch of coast are better for beginners and, of course, the beaches are great places for sunbathing and walking. The renowned surfer town, Haleiwa is a one-hour drive from Waikiki and surrounded by beautiful beaches and offers inviting local restaurants housed serenely in plantation-era buildings, cool shops, boutiques and art galleries. The Hawaiian Islands have a fragile ecosystem easily affected by external influences with the highest number of threatened native plant and animal species in the world. Eco-tourism experiences are high on the list of available tours to farms and botanical gardens to showcase this unique environment. Locals place great importance on working and caring for the land, and traditional methods of working the area are encouraged to keep it sustainable. A plethora of information is also and always available to visitors.
Great agritourist experiences are available with opportunities to work on farms in return for your accommodation, cultivating and encouraging home-grown crops such as on the Mohala, Poamoho and Kahuku farms. This objective seeks to engage tourists in authentic experiences that are off the beaten path while allowing those involved in farming and agriculture to broaden their income base. Farmers invite visitors to sample products and partake in farming operations, educating them about farming history, products and value-added merchandise such as bath and body products, as well as activities such as lei-making, tree planting, rehabilitation of wildlife, sources of renewable energy, coconut husking/tasting and demonstrations amongst many others. TBILISI There is no one simple reason why Tbilisi has become one of the trendiest tourist destinations. Fashion, mountain trekking, picturesque architecture influenced by Persian, Byzantine, Ottoman, Russian and Soviet occupation, fantastic food and some traditional Georgian experiences including the 24-hour Sulphur baths, the plump khinkali (spiced meat dumplings) and the legendary friendliness of the locals are on offer. The city’s strategic position at the crossroads of Asia and Europe has quietly observed invasions by Mongols, Khazars, Turks and Arabs over the centuries but now provides a fascinating glimpse into history combined with contemporary attractions. Byzantine churches line up alongside crumbling mansions, Art Nouveau designs sit alongside neo-classical buildings, all of these interspersed with grey Soviet-era apartment blocks. Tbilisi in Georgia was part of the Soviet Union until 1991 but development has rapidly reshaped and modernised this capital city without losing any of the old authentic charms. The old town located in the deepest part of the valley consists of narrow winding roads, balconied dwellings along the clifftops looking across the river and rather magnificent churches overlooked by the 17th century Narikala Fortress. The neighbourhoods surrounding it still have a village-like feel with narrow roads, small shops and a community >
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Waikiki beach Hawaii
atmosphere. The old quarter known as Abanotubani is home to the ancient Sulphur bathhouses, some with exquisite and delicate mosaics decorating the underground domed rooms. Culturally, it is no backwater destination. There is the superb Zurab Tsereteli Museum of Modern Art that hosts the biannual Fashion Week, the beautiful peace bridge and the oddly constructed ‘Leaning Tower of Tbilisi’ or Gabriadze Clock built in 1991. The exceptional Silk Museum, one of the oldest in the world, has dazzling exhibits in a restored caravanserai and the Simon Janashia Museum of Georgia has a stunning collection of medieval icons and jewellery dating back to 5 BC. Georgian wine is notable, supported by the fertile environment of the lower Caucasus, one of the most ancient viticulture regions in the world. The State Puppet Theatre delights both young and old. The city’s charm is enhanced by its dramatic setting in a deep valley cut through by the Mtkvari River and surrounded by small mountains. Its history as part of the Soviet Union from 1921 to 1991 is evident, particularly in the chaotic Dry Bridge Flea Market near Dedaena Park offering a variety of items from mind-boggling antiques and old military medals, plumbing supplies and kitchenware to handmade crafts all spread out on blankets.
Twenty-first-century Georgian lifestyle offers a whole new dimension of inviting restaurants and cafés with delicious and noteworthy menus, bars, a range of accommodation – some of the luxury hotels have a variety of pillows on offer to satisfy the most fastidious guests – plazas, parks and an efficient and modern transport system. JORDAN TRAIL For the adventurous hikers seeking a new route, the long-distance Jordan Trail is a brand new historical hiking route along the length of Jordan from the Um Qais in the north to Aqaba in the south. The route traverses the diverse landscapes of the region through the forests in the north, the rugged wadis and cliffs overlooking the Jordan Rift Valley, the rose rock of Petra, the dramatic sands and soaring mountains in Wadi Rum or Valley of the Moon to the crystal waters on the shore of the Red Sea. This trail provides an astounding 650km of hiking in about 40 days and passes through 52 villages and towns. This newly minted trail links ancient trade routes and it is thought that Jesus, Moses and Mohammed all walked this path. The route has eight separate sections and overnight accommodation is provided in guesthouses, homestays and Bedouin campsites. In reality, this trail is a journey through the history of Jordan and
Tbilisi, one of the trendiest tourist destinations.
a chance to encounter some of its varied cultures, sample the local cuisine and meet the people and discover how they live and learn about previous civilisations which have left their story on the land. It crosses historical sites such as Jerash and Petra, as well as revealing hidden ruins resting quietly in the countryside. The concept of crossing Jordan on foot is a century old practice as trade routes and paths have cut across the country as it was the centre of the King’s Highway, the trade route from Egypt to Aqaba and then on to Damascus. It provided a means of communication for distant peoples and for conducting business and this same action is still bringing people through the countryside, only now as hikers for recreation and a superb hiking experience. In recent years, outdoor exploration in Jordan has been enthusiastically promoted and developed by those involved in organisations integrally involved in the country’s growing outdoor scene. The creation of one Jordan trail has included many different groups including Bedouin tribes and local enthusiasts from each of the regions. The route is in the process of growing and developing, so suggestions and recommendations are welcomed by the Jordan Trail Association formed in 2015. >
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SANTIAGO, CHILE Santiago’s colourful street art scene is partly the reason for its becoming one of the to-go destinations in this city. Blank walls provide blank canvases for vibrant murals and paintings for Chilean street-style art in areas such as Bellavista, Brasil and Yungay and the neglected San Miguel barrio or suburb is now the Museo a Cielo Abierto, an open-air mural museum. For any visitor it quickly becomes clear that this city is becoming one of those metropolitan joys, where the more you look, the more you discover. A seismic cultural shift has taken place in Santiago, which was viewed as the rather uninteresting capital, to a lively and attractive place to visit, with creative districts developing in every direction. Offering boutique hotels, fabulous restaurants, hearty Chilean fare and a thriving nightlife scene, this city founded in 1541 seems to be discovering its Latin roots. With the Andes on one side and the Chilean coastal range to the west, this city is one of the most impressive in the world, and with its emerging myriad of attractions, it is becoming South America’s capital of cool! Its surprisingly multicultural, energetic and sophisticated with accented cultural currents, madhouse parties and now 40 per cent (seven million) of Chile’s population call this city home. There is an abundance of opportunities for exploring just by following the narrow winding streets with their overhanging houses mostly painted in gaudy brash colours and as you wander each area seems to provide a unique flavour of style and culture. Food and wine are vitally important here. The wine industry is rapidly gathering international recognition from superb wines of
world-class standards and local chefs strive to develop menus that combine indigenous cooking methods and regional produce, refining and improving the nation’s cuisine. The renowned US magazine Saveur called it the world’s Next Great Food City in 2017 and any gourmet will quickly understand the reason for this. One of the most prosperous capital cities in South America, Santiago is changing rapidly and the skyline is being reshaped by enormous and lofty skyscrapers that redefine its skyline while older neighbourhoods have been reinvigorated. The list of activities and attractions keeps growing and the Mediterranean climate allows for year-round enjoyment. Essentials include a ride on the rickety railway to the top of Cerro San Cristobal for a panoramic view of the city, artisanal shopping abounds in every direction with great ceramics, jewellery made from the deep blue lapis lazuli, a precious stone found in the surrounding Andes or head for the cool waters of the Pacific coastline measuring over 4 200km. Visit the Mercado Central; the wrought iron seafood market stacked high with an astounding variety of seafood and the attendant food stalls serving super fresh dishes for your delight. With a growing economy, renovated art scene and plenty of eccentricities to spare, Santiago is an old-guard city on the verge of a modern-day renaissance. Don’t miss it. Santiago’s colourful streets
HARAR A most surprising city in East Africa has found its place in this list due to its enchantingly contradictory ambience. This is Harar in northern Ethiopia, also known as the ‘City of Saints’ that has 82 mosques, the best beer in the country, the potent khat (an ubiquitous narcotic plant) and the highest quality coffee. Who could resist? Harar is often regarded as a museum of peoples; it has a mosaic of national/linguistic communities or nations speaking more than 83 languages and over 200 dialects. This Unesco-recognised city has recently marked is 1 010th anniversary and offers a glimpse into a unique heritage. One of the most fantastical is that hyenas are welcome visitors to the city at night and tourists may be lucky enough to witness a bizarre exercise between locals and these animals. Young men skewer chunks of meat onto sticks and while holding these sticks in their mouths offer and feed them to the hyenas who slowly emerge out of the darkness. One of these young men explained that he did this because he liked animals and that he is one of several volunteers who feed them on a daily basis. The hyenas are referred to as young priests and are celebrated each year by a porridge feast for them in the four corners of the city. The city’s inhabitants and the hyenas have lived side by side for centuries. Hara was founded in the seventh century as part of the Coptic Christian Kingdom of Axom and is also known as the African Mecca and adopted Islam. The city was founded in 1007 and by the 16th century it was the capital of Harari Kingdom and a centre for regional trade and Islamic learning before becoming part of Ethiopia in 1887. The enormous fortified walls built between the 13th and 16th centuries that surround the city have small holes to allow the hyenas to enter at night. Many consider it to be Islam’s fourth holiest city, although there are many Muslims who disagree and it is frequently referred to as the city of peace. Today it is the capital of the Harari People National Regional State which is the smallest state in Ethiopia and has many examples of unique and exceptional architecture within its walls, capturing the culture of its African and Islamic inhabitants. The city is crisscrossed with 368 cobbled and narrow alleys squeezed into one square kilometre, often reflecting little change over the years. Unesco states that it is a ‘rare example of a relatively well-preserved historic town that has retained its traditions, urban fabric, and rich Harari Muslim cultural heritage to the present time’. The city is situated on a plateau with deep gorges surrounded by desert savannah and is filled with countless shrines, animated markets, crumbling walls and charming people, almost convincing that you are no longer in the 21st century. The walls with their six gates run for 3,5km and surround the old city and little development took place outside of these until the 20th century. The community within these walls keep the landmarks alive, the scents of the markets filled with brightly coloured produce and crafts, the handsome women in colourful dress carrying intricately woven baskets on their heads, the muezzins calling the faithful to prayer - all of these combined to fascinate and intrigue visitors. One street known as Mekina Girgir is packed on each side with tailors’ workshops and men busy at sewing machines. The French Symbolist Poet Arthur Rimbaud’s home, or the site of his original home, presents an exhibition of turn of the century Harar that Rimbaud encountered when he turned his back on literary fame to become a gunrunner. A visit is required to the Medhane Alem Cathedral or 16th century Jamia mosque. Travellers visiting Harar will not be disappointed as it batters their senses and demands attention as there is so much going on around them at every moment. >
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VIENNA Vienna is a renowned destination, but 2018 offers something particularly special for those with a love of beautiful paintings with a particular interest in Modernism. Four of its most significant characters died 100 years ago and their lasting impact on Vienna is acknowledged by spectacular exhibitions on display this year. Painters Gustav Klimt, Egon Schiele, Otto Wagner, three leading members of the city’s Secession art movement and the universal artist, Koloman Moser left their permanent mark on Vienna around 1900. Numerous exhibitions and events are planned to celebrate their lives this year apart from the works already on permanent display. The most extensive collection of work by Klimt can be seen at the Belvedere with 24 paintings on display, including his most famous piece, The Kiss. Another critical work, Death and Life is on show at the Leopold Museum while the Beethoven Frieze at the Secession is another highlight. In the Museums Quartier, the Leopold Museum holds the largest and most important number of works by Schiele with more than 40 paintings and 180 works on paper, as well as a document centre examining his work from an academic view. Further work can be seen at the Belvedere and Albertina. Wagner, regarded as a pioneering architect and urban planner, worked on many prestigious projects in Vienna leaving behind an impressive legacy. Among his main works are the Austrian Post Savings Bank, the Court Pavilion in Hietzing, the Church of St Leopold at Steinhof and the Stadtbahn Pavilions on Karlsplatz. The Austrian Museum of Applied Art/Contemporary Art or MAK exhibits work by Moser and many others and is also the owner of the Wiener Werkstatte company archive.
However, if you love art but wish for something more than these splendid exhibitions, Vienna will seduce and charm you for as long as you care to stay. It is culturally and musically one of the richest cities in the world, apart from its cosmopolitan mix of lively cafés and cool bars, galleries, shops and street markets. The Danube River winding its way through the city offers a selection of chilled locations in the summer when most of the state-run opera, concert and theatre venues take their annual break but from September onwards the cultural activities start up again in full swing. Previously the centre of the Hapsburg Empire, the palaces of Schonbrunn and Hofburg, the Ringstrasse and a multitude of art treasures in spectacular museums display its fine history while the futuristic Library and Learning Centre designed by Zaha Hadid should not be missed. The coffee houses are an essential part of this multicultural metropolis with a list of gourmet type coffees available and homebaked strudel and the shopping boutiques offer a multitude of temptations from vintage Chanels and Saint Laurents to more local lines for less sartorially oriented shoppers. Of course, food markets with traditional Austrian fare alongside new and thriving young entrepreneurs will entertain and delight food enthusiasts. Wine taverns visited, using the vintage red-and-white trams circling the Ringstrasse, serve wine made from their produce and will charm those wanting to experience the wines of the region in more everyday surroundings. The ball season starting in February and currently taking place encompasses more than 400 lavish parties with the Opera Ball being one of the most coveted and expensive events. Vienna belongs in the realm of ‘not to be missed’ destinations and particularly this year for art lovers.
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