Luxe Beat Magazine April 2014

APRIL 2014

KENNEDYS SAIL

Victura

DUBAI

RISING TO NEW HEIGHTS

FASHION DESIGNER

JULIAN CHANG

Talking Luxury Home Rentals PASSEPARTOUT HOMES

APRIL

INSIDE LUXE BEAT MAG

6 Dubai: Rising to New Heights

10 Go to Kutna Hora and Czech Republic (Part 2)

14

SINGAPORE -Giant Little Island 17 CRYSTAL SAILS Into Asia

20

Naples Luxe Life

25

Isla Mujeres’ Most Romantic Retreat

29

Chef Tylun Pang’s Ono BBQ Chicken

36

PLACE MATTERS

To Rodney Strong Vineyards

37 Burgundy Terroirs

39

Anestis Babatzimopoulos D i s t i l l e r, W i n e m a k e r, C h e f

42

SHERRIE W ILKO L ASKI

Tea Leoni Aqua Tan

51

Old Faithful Inn, Yellowstone

68

62

71

Lillian Africano

to Fisher’s Menu, AL

LINDA KISSAM Global Wine & Travel Editor-at-Large

DALE SANDERS Senior Travel & Lifestyle Editor /Director of Photography

COURTNEY LOWDEN Fashion Editor-At-Large

LEAH WALKER Editor-At-Large

B E N JA M I N B E N N E T T Creative Director

VICTURA: KENNEDYS SAIL

78 65

Emeril Reacts

Executive Editor

Editor-at-Large

76

Oh la la, Cal-aVie Spa

MARALY N D. HILL MICHELLE W INNER

Fashion Old Faithful Inn, Designer Yellowstone Julian Chang

55 1 Sustainable Fashion

Editor-in-Chief and Managing Partner

63

K AT HY WANA MAKER Sales Associate

C O NT RIBUTO RS Allan Kissam

Larry Larsen

David Beebe

Leah Walker

Debi Lander

Lillian Africano

Dena Roche

Mandy Rowe

Graeme Kemlo

Marc d’Entremont

Herve Laurent

Marilyn Green

Inka Piegas-Quischote

Mary Haban

Ivan Flowers

Michael Cervin

Janice Nieder

Nancy Mueller

Jessica Skropanic

Nina Africano

Karen Catchpole

Norman Hill

Katherine Frelon

Sandra Chambers

Kathy Gruver

Stacey Wittig

Kurt Winner

Susan Lanier Graham

Lacey Reeves

The Cooking Ladies

Lance Seeto Cover photography courtesy of Shutterstock.

LET T ER FRO M T HE EDITO R

SPRING INTO LUXURY is our theme for our April 2014 edition. Spring is a time for change, think about taking that first step to explore new luxury possibilities. We’re taking our readers around the globe, covering exotic places like Singapore and Isla Mujeres, to private vacation home rentals, or a weekend spa getaway to Cala-Vie. You’ll want to find out which tanning products Téa Leoni doesn’t leave home without, and find out what is trending in fashion with designers Julian Chang and Kelley Derrett.

If sailing is your passion, we have a first look at the new book “Victura: the Kennedys, a Sailboat, and the Sea”

by James W. Graham.

No matter where you are in the world, Luxe Beat Magazine will take you on journey to discover everything that luxury has to offer.

Live your life in luxury!

Sherrie Wilkolaski Editor-in-Chief

Join an exclusive global travel club with standards as high as your own.

As a Passepartout Homes guest we want you to feel reassured about every aspect of your trip - from the moment you book until the moment you arrive home.

What you want is a place where you can kick off your shoes and be yourself. Somewhere comfortably luxurious where you can spend unforgettable moments with family and friends.

As a member of Passepartout Homes private travel club, you can choose from a selection of unique, luxurious private homes owned by people like you. Our portfolio includes chic city apartments, relaxing beach resorts, stylish ski chalets and luxury farmhouses in some of the world’s most sought-after locations.

Our Diamond and Concierge services make you feel cared about and special. Tell us what you need and we’ll do it.

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I mmediate access to our exclusive portfolio of luxurious properties from all over the world.

A range of tailor made extras from our Concierge and Diamond services.

P ersonal help and guidance from our team.

New members are usually referred by existing club members, but for Luxe Beat Magazine readers, we simply ask that you use our special membership code: LUXE14.

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Think five-star hotels and resorts are the only accommodation options for luxury holidays? The ever-increasing trend of renting privately owned villas, apartments, châteaux and

LUXURY HOME RENTALS

homes has led to a growing number of luxury choices

by Leah Walker

for travelers accustomed to the very best. For some insight into high-end holiday rentals, I chatted via Skype with Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande, owner of Passepartout

C

urrently living in

Information and Bloomberg

myself, interesting instead of

London with her

Businessweek. She left

working for others.

husband and

Bloomberg in April 2013 to

two daughters,

start Passepartout Homes.

Starting Passepartout Homes was a difficult decision to make—it was during the

Paola is originally from Italy where she graduated from the

What led you to start

economic crisis and also

Catholic University of Milan

Passepartout Homes?

would put a financial strain

with degrees in Russian and

The primary reason for starting

on my family. I didn’t want to

German literature and social

the business is that I wanted

go down the route of finding

psychology. After working

to look after my family properly

investors or asking the bank

launched in basically January

in Brussels and Frankfurt,

and have a good work and life

for money. The money would

2013, but I worked full time for

Paola then moved to London

balance. The second reason

come out of savings, and I

Bloomberg until April of 2013.

where she worked in direct

is that I’ve probably hit a

gave myself two to three years

I knew I couldn’t do both and

marketing for major publishers

mid-life crisis where I’d like to

to determine if it was a good

decided to focus full time on

IPC Media, Reed Business

do something meaningful for

or bad decision. The company

my business. It wasn’t until

06

APRIL 2014 • LUXE BEAT MAGAZINE

FEATURE September 2013, that I sat down at my desk five days a week building Passepartout Homes.

What do you say to people who want to book a luxury holiday, but have never rented a villa and might be weary about receiving the same level of service as compared to a five-star hotel?

A villa will offer more space, privacy and flexibility than a hotel. Space is a key factor, especially when traveling with children, other couples or multiple families. I find it difficult to locate hotels with enough space for the entire family or that offer interconnecting rooms.

Privacy is a plus when renting a villa. Even in luxury hotels, it’s difficult to find peace with the noise level of neighbors coming home late at night, switching on the television or taking a shower at 6:00 in the morning. In a villa there’s much more peace.

When renting a villa you’re not on anyone else’s timetable; it’s much more flexible. If you’d like to wake up at noon and eat breakfast then you can. Also, desired services and amenities can be tailored to meet your wants and needs. With some of the homes, a cook and daily maid is included in the package. In others these services can be added along with security, a butler, private transfers, etc.

There has been quite a bit of press about scams dealing with holiday rentals. Perhaps these homes don’t exist or the

LUXE BEAT MAGAZINE • APRIL 2014

07

person requesting money doesn’t have the authority to rent the homes. What advice would you give to people that are interested in booking a home, but are nervous about being scammed?

Customers need to be educated on how to recognize a scam, but also reassured that not every property owner or agency is a scam. I’ve had clients request a postal address of the villa, and that’s

world. When you’re adding

something that I can’t just give

homes to your portfolio

away. What guarantee do I

what do you look for in

have that they’re also not a

choosing properties?

scam? It’s like a circle. If I don’t

The first criterion is that it

give them the address then

has to be a villa that I’d be

they don’t want to rent.

happy to rent myself. If it’s not

Customers can help protect themselves by not sending money right away. First do

something I’d rent then the answer is already no.

Secondly, the villa has to

some research. Also know that

be serviced. It needs to have

going through a trusted agency

someone locally as the first

is often safer than going

point of contact. They’ll need

through an individual who may

to open the house and serve

or may not own the property.

as an emergency contact for clients. If the villa is in the

You have villas all over the

luxury bracket, this contact person needs to be able to recommend and organize a private chef, private maid, butler, security, serve as a local concierge for organizing tours, massages, restaurant reservations, yoga, or whatever is desired by the client.

I also try to work directly with the owners and speak with them regularly. I think it’s important to establish a

FEATURE butcher, things that locals do,

2014 that you’ve seen with

are experiences that the clients

your portfolio?

enjoy doing. This is someone

There’s a huge request for

who wants a more in depth

Paris, but there’s always a

experience. If you choose a

huge request for Paris and

hotel or resort, sometimes you

generally France and Italy.

don’t have any idea what goes

Within Italy, Tuscany is always

on outside of the gates.

big. Sardinia for a while was

Requests are mostly from

forgotten, but is now up and

Europe, though people love

coming again. Sicily, Umbria

My customers are people

my villas in Thailand. The usual

and Apulia are now the hot

who like to travel abroad and

suspects like France and Italy

top destinations. Umbria is

discover new cultures and

are popular—Tuscany, Paris,

sandwiched between Rome

Who is your ideal

places. The person who rents

Provence—those are the most

and Tuscany and very easy to

customer? Where do they

a villa is someone looking to

popular, along with Mexico.

reach. It’s also less expensive

want to visit?

stay in a place more than a

Most of my customers are

and crowded than Tuscany and

My ideal customer is one who

few days. They want to live like

European, though I’ve focused

definitely worth considering.

I can trust not to trash the

a local, which allows them to

most of my efforts there. I’m

property, someone who treats

breathe in the atmosphere and

just starting to market globally.

relationship with the owners instead of being the agency of the agency.

the property better than

they treat his or her own home.

homes, when should people

culture. Going to the supermarket,

A villa will offer more space, privacy and flexibility than a hotel.

bakery and

When renting vacation

What are some of the top

start organizing their

travel destination trends in

holidays?

The absolute busiest time is January and February. This is when people are organizing spring break, summer and some are even looking into Christmas 2014. At the moment, 90% of my inquiries are about spring break and summer holidays. September and October are my peak times for Christmas inquiries.

It’s essential to book early, especially for the summer, considering almost all of the nicest summer properties are already booked.

Most people fly to reach their destination, and the earlier you book the better deals you’ll find. If you wait until May to book a villa, it most certainly will be unavailable. Hotels are different since they have a bigger capacity, whereas with a villa, there’s only one. I know people who book the same villa year after year. In August, they check out and pre-book for the next year.

09

DUBAI RISING W

ake-ups

I could have lazed in the posh

to Burj Khalifa — the tallest

observation deck, I couldn’t

calls sound

living room, worked at the free

building on the planet. (Dubai

help but gasp at the light

harsh in any

Wi-Fi equipped office, dined

rightfully flaunts a slew of

reflecting from this site. Below,

language.

at a table recessed in a round

these superlatives.)

a pea-sized city looked as

Ticketed guests enter the

if I was viewing it from an

But, they ring hideous when

nook, and used a second

you’ve gone to bed just a

bathroom. Instead, I slumped

tower and stroll past a series

airplane, but of course, I was

few hours earlier, following

with jet-lag into a magnificent

of construction photos and art,

not. Burg Khalifa stretches a

24-hours in-flight. However

king-sized bed at two in the

and then pose for an obligatory

massive 2,716.5 feet in the air,

groggy I was, dawn beckoned

morning, almost unaware of the

souvenir photo taken en route

and even from the 124th floor

and I had little time to waste.

room’s most gaga addition — a

to the elevator. About 10-12

platform, some 26 stories still

I’d traveled thousands of miles

triangular glassed-in space.

folks fit (my group spanning

teeter above.

and was scheduled for a full

The staff explained that guest’s

many nationalities) and when

day of touring. I glanced out

children sometimes use the

the doors close, a multi-

glass enclosures, I regained

the floor-to-ceiling windows,

recessed bed for sleeping,

colored psychedelic light and

my bearings and soaked in

sound show begins playing

a panoramic party of epic

Stabilizing myself against the

and then stood, agog at the

but Iby would have reclined to Leah Walker

glistening new city rising from

daydream in the sexy glass

on the walls. Simultaneously

proportions. Fortunately, the sky

the sea. The vista of downtown

point, surrounded by a starry

a digital monitor displaying

remained clear; no sand storms

Dubai from the 33rd floor

sky — and preferably with a

floor numbers whizzes by in

blew in, as are common.

of Jumeirah Emirates Hotel

glass of wine.

Towers presented itself like none I’d ever seen before.

The JumeirahTowers,

Alas, I had no time to indulge high-tech

rapid succession. The

Burg Khalifa stretches a massive 2,716.5ft in the air

elevator jettisons

From on high, I could see the flat desert, the simple land

passengers

mass that was the entire city

from the

until recently. Over the past

lowest to

ten years, Dubai has risen

highest

at an unprecedented pace,

stop at

as if Sheikh Mohammed, the

a rate of

emirate’s ruler, doused the

ten meters

sands with Miracle Grow. His

two sister structures, were

buttons

constructed early in Dubai’s

that

rags to riches rally. Since April,

operated

2000, one has served as an

black-out

office building and the other, a

curtains

hotel: actually the world’s third-

and opened

tallest all-hotel building. The

blinds. I

shimmery steel and glass icons

dressed and

exude power and pride, and

descended to the

lucky me, I’d slept a few hours in

lobby in a crystal clear elevator

floor in one minute flat. Whew!

and mega-malls with indoor

one of their 40 fabulous suites.

in time to be whisked off to the

Strangely, I don’t recall my

aquariums and ski resorts.

Dubai Mall. The mall makes a

ears popping.

Dubai has been described as

Had I arrived earlier the previous evening as planned,

convenient entrance for visitors

or almost 33 feet per second. We

reached the 124th

As I stepped onto the

dream metropolis now includes state-of-the-art infrastructure, eight-lane highways, computerized mass transit,

a city of excess, Vegas without

FEATURE Burg Khalifa- Tallest Building in the World

gambling. And so it seemed, yet prettier.

I looked out, overwhelmed

Burg Khalifa’s construction began in 2004 and was completed in 2010, after 22

by the artistic details in the

million man-hours. At the peak

designs, so many exquisite

of production over 12,000

architectural wonders in one

workers and contractors were

place. I wasn’t familiar with the

on site everyday, representing

skyline yet, but would soon

more than 100 nationalities.

come to recognize the squared

Guides claim that 31,400

arch or Financial Center, Al

tons of rebar were used in the

Yaqoub Tower, the Big Ben

skyscraper, enough to extend

facsimile, and other swooping

over a quarter of the way around

edifices. In the distance I

the world. Another statistic

caught a hint of the World

says, “26,000 glass panels,

archipelago, a series of islands

each individually hand-cut, were

sand-dredged from the sea

placed in the exterior cladding.

like Michelangelo sculpted his

Over 300 cladding specialists

David from marble.

from China were brought in for

The word “burg “means

this part of the project.”

tower in Arabic, and Khalifa,

Architect Adrian Smith

refers to Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh

incorporated patterns from

Khalifa, who came to the

traditional Islamic architecture,

rescue when construction

in this case using a regional

funds ran low. Although Dubai

desert flower, the Hymenocallis,

flaunts its wealth, the emirate

or spider lily. Its harmonious

does not contain nearly the oil

structure is one of the

(aka fortune) as neighboring

organizing principles of the

Abu Dhabi.

tower’s design. After reading

Glassed-In Addition at Jumeirah Emirates Hotel Suite

View from the Jumeriah Hotel

View “At the Top” down to the Burg Khalifa Fountains

this, I could visualize the building as petals from a stem, the tower’s wings extending from its central core.

Dubai has been described as a city of excess

tallest structure, the spire is integral to the overall design, creating a sense of completion for the landmark.

Since Dubai suffers with

The website states: The crowning touch of Burj

inside the building and jacked

heat and humidity much of

Khalifa is its telescopic spire

to its full height of 700 feet

the year, the need for water

comprised of more than 4,000

using a hydraulic pump. In

remains vitally important. The

tons of structural steel. The

addition to securing Burj

incorporated system supplies

spire was constructed from

Khalifa’s place as the world’s

an average of 250,000 gallons of water daily. However,

Dubai Reflections @Debi Lander

Window Washers at Burg Khalifa

the structure also requires approximately 10,000 tons of cooling daily. Air-conditioners create a significant amount of condensation and drainage is collected in a basement holding tank — one the size of about 20 Olympicsized swimming pools. The skyscraper’s peak electrical demand runs equivalent to 360,000 100-watt bulbs operating simultaneously.

12

Looking up at Burg Khalifa

FEATURE Jumeirah Hotel Suite Living Room

Jumeirah Hotel In -Room Dining Area

Khalifa’s astonishing view.

Completing the majestic

900 feet long with water jets that

naturally proud of this tall,

exterior, a grand water terrace

shoot 500 feet in the air, as high

elegant sliver of glass, steel and

Photos by Debi Lander

surrounds several levels and

as a 45-story building. The visual

concrete jabbing the sky. If you

Disclosure: Thanks to the

steps down toward a man-made

spectacle uses 6,600 lights, 25

visit the U.A.E., be sure to make

Jumeirah Emirates Towers for

lake. Residents and visitors line

colored projectors and 22,000

online reservations to ride to the

hosting me for one night and

up here to ogle at (what else) the

gallons of airborne water.

top. Tickets often sell out and

Dubai Tourism for my ticket to

you don’t want to miss Burg

the Top of Burg Khalifa.

world’s largest dancing fountain:

The people of Dubai are

Burg Khalifa Observation Platform

APRIL 2014 • LUXE BEAT MAGAZINE

13

GO TO KUTNA HORA AND T R A CZECH P 2 REPUBLIC

14

APRIL 2014 • LUXE BEAT MAGAZINE

G

o to Prague and Czech Republic" discovered the food, local sites, and fine hotels in the capital city of the Czech Republic. The stay at Prague got everyone on the local clock, plus we had a fascinating day trip to Melnik and the Lobkowitz Castle with its antique furnishings, restaurant luncheon of wild boar with dumplings, and wine tasting. This current article continues the adventure, transitioning through Kutna Hora and on to Brno in the southern part of the country.

Kutna Hora is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the filming location of numerous motion pictures. Its St. Barbara’s Church is visible throughout the area and a special treat was taking a walk along the roof edge, amongst the Renaissance Gothic spires and gargoyles.

Inside the church are preserved fresco art and beautiful clerestory windows. As a silver producing area, much of the decorations exhibit the toil by miners and local life.

The church completion was a half-millennium long project due to a lack of funds after the silver mines petered out.

It was necessary to reduce the footprint, delay features outside of the core nave, and end the effort in 1905.

From the balcony, above the church nave, a door leads out to the roof area for viewing the multiple Gothic themes. The

LUXE BEAT MAGAZINE • APRIL 2014

classical architecture on the roof is skeletal and open, with arches extending up towards the spires, which appear as if shooting up to touch heaven. This was architectural education up close, but then, ever watchful, are the gargoyles at the roof edges. Spires you can see best from afar, but gargoyles need to be spoken to.

Walking on such a narrow rooftop pathway meant keeping an eye on the gargoyles. Getting up close and personal, you can see there are others that care for them. Along the inside of the water runoff trough is a modern heating element to keep the ice cleared out. It is frightening to think that in earlier times, a person had to go up there and clear the ice to avoid damage

are monuments to the dead. We are connected to these people

to the roof. Can you trust a gargoyle that much, reaching out

not only through family DNA, but also in reverence displayed with

from the relative safety of a roof edge, to brush its back?

the Vietnam Memorial, and the more recent 9/11 Memorial.

Italian Court in Kunta Hora includes the Royal Mint of the late

Wine tasting in the region Moravia is next in this three-part

Middle Ages and Renaissance periods, when the Bohemian

written tour of Czech Republic. Gateway to the region is the city

silver coin was currency throughout Europe. Exhibits of

of Brno, second only to Prague in population. A wonderful hotel in

coins and actual coin stamping causes one to imagine a life

Brno is the Hotel Barcelo Palace. It is located at the base of the

spent swinging a hammer, every day and all day – and we

Petrov Hill, where the Gothic-styled Cathedral of Saints Peter and

complain about repetitive stress due to computer typing!

Paul is located. This historic ground is at the center of the city and

In the chapel at Italian Court is a beautiful statue of

important in the battles saving the region during Thirty Years War

Christ. Interesting is the “vault” cut into the back of the

of the 1600’s. Several days can be dedicated to visit Brno, which

statue where jewels could be hidden from invaders or

boasts a UNESCO listed must-see Functionalist Villa Tugendhat.

thieves, none of whom would violate the sanctity of the

Finally, ever wonder: Where do they get all this wild boar?

holy image. Certainly, everything else in the building was

Wild boar and dumplings was served everywhere as the

fair game and the hiding place apparently worked.

representative of Czech cultural dining. The answer is in the

Recommended is a meal at Restaurant Dacický in Kutna

forests and wooded areas of central Czech, right next to the

Hora at the Italian Chapel. Served daily are old Bohemian

wine tasting we do in the next article. Hunters and shooters,

recipes and six types of draught beer or local wine.

lured into tours that actually lead to shopping malls, take heart.

Nearby in Sedlec is the bone chapel, a real ossuary, displaying

We show you how to arrange for a personal wild boar hunt

bones of people who died from the plagues sweeping through

experience. These animals are big, so take a breath, exhale

Europe. This is somewhat creepy, but it remembers the

slowly, and squeeze the trigger while its tusks turn towards you.

monumental numbers of deaths and in public squares, as in Brno,

If you miss, then perhaps shopping wasn't so bad, after all.

SINGAPORE

by Leah Walker

Its People

18% may be added to its

of business. It exists as

Malay, Mandarin Chinese

Today, Singapore is an

land base by 2030. Even so,

a banking, finance, and

and Tamil are also official

integral, prosperous part of

space is tight. Most of its

high tech electronics and

languages. There is a local

Asia known as the Pacific

population live in high rise

manufacturing center.

colloquial dialect called

Rim. This island state has

condominium-type apartments.

Singapore is considered

Singlish, but it seems to

slightly over 5.3 million

However, these are modern,

one of the world’s greatest

contain many elements

population (including about

functional dwellings.

commercial hubs, the fourth

of American English. All

largest financial center and

ethnic groups seem to work together harmoniously.

3.3 million citizens), including

Singapore Island is by

about two million permanent

far the largest island in the

one of the five busiest ports.

residents or foreign workers..

chain, joined by over 60 much

Its environment is considered

Its ethnic composition

smaller islands and islets.

extremely competitive

there is considerable

is about 75% Chinese

On its north side, the Straits

and one of the easiest in

integration of these groups,

ethnicity, 15% Malaysian,

of Johor separate Singapore

which to do business.

there are sections in

and 8% Indian. As many as

from Malaysia, part of the

11 million transient workers

main Asia continent, and on

is very well educated,

groups seem to congregate

visit Singapore annually.

the south, Singapore Strait

enjoying the third highest

to some degree of residency,

separates it from Indonesia’s

per capita income in the

dining and shopping. There is

far western Riau Islands.

world. English is the first

a Chinatown, of course, but

language of administration

also sections more dominated

and communication, although

by Malay and Indians dialects.

A considerable portion of its land, around 20%, has been reclaimed from the ocean

Primarily, the business of

since the 1960s. Another

Singapore is a wide gamut

17

Singapore’s population

Even though, in business,

Singapore where different

APRIL 2014 • LUXE BEAT MAGAZINE

FEATURE Centennial Singapore, W

entertainment are available

What to See

Singapore Sentosa Cove,

for tourists interested in

Many hotels in Singapore

The Regent Singapore, Pan

nightlife. Extensive landfill

are fairly new and rank as

Pacific Singapore, Grand Hyatt

projects have made it feasible

world class. Recently, the

Singapore, The Fullerton Hotel

to provide alternatives to busy,

Ritz Carlton hotel in the city

Singapore, Capella Singapore,

bustling daytime activities.

was considered to have the

Four Seasons Singapore,

world’s sexiest bathrooms.

The Fullerton Bay Hotel and

with several new casinos

We toured those bathrooms

the Park Royal in Pickering.

started in 2005.

and certainly agree with that

Tourism is not the country’s

Legalized gambling

Singapore Airlines flies

assessment. The colonial

largest industry, but it is

direct nonstop from several

ambience of Raffles Hotel is

significant. Visitors should

west coast U.S. cities. For

still available as an alternative.

have a very interesting time,

a somewhat longer trip, it

Fine dining exists in many

exploring a variety of sites.

flies eastward from inland

restaurants, including the well-

There is an excellent historical

cities across Europe, and

preserved charm of Raffles’

museum, the National Museum

there connecting east to

restaurant and bar. This

of Singapore. It includes

Singapore. Its Changi Airport

establishment is renowned for

descriptions of Japanese

is consistently ranked as

its “Singapore Sling” cocktail.

World War II brutality, and

one of the world’s finest.

Raffles Hotel Singapore,

how Singapore’s fortunes fell and rose again afterwards.

Government

In 2007, over 10 million

The government of Singapore

small size, there are 21

tourists visited the nation.

should still be considered

Singapore luxury hotels with

In addition, Singapore is

authoritarian. Dissent seems

a five star rating, including

gaining a reputation as

to be tolerated up to a

one boutique version. These

a medical tourist hub.

point, but public speech is

Courtesy of Raffles All told, despite the nation’s

include Stamford Singapore,

The harbor of Singapore

still limited. Free elections

Raffles Hotel Singapore,

at night is not to be missed.

have been held in recent

a true landmark, Shangri-

To me, its lit-up skyscrapers

years, and there are at least

La Hotel Singapore, Naumi

compare very favorably

two political parties.

Hotel Singapore, Marina Bay

with those of Manhattan or

Sands Singapore, Mandarin

another tight little island,

Minister of Singapore from

Oriental Singapore, Marina

Hong Kong. Boat tours

1965-1990, and, if benevolent

Singaporeans, we were

Mandarin Singapore, St.

day or night are available to

to some extent, was still a de

pleased to see that the

Regis Singapore, Inter

travel all around the harbor.

facto dictator. Reportedly, he

English spoken seems to be

Continental Singapore, Ritz

On the docks, many new

American English—subtleties

Carlton Millenia Singapore,

developments have occurred.

as a “guided democracy.”

and nuances of English are

Fairmont Singapore, Conrad

Restaurants and boardwalk

He retired as prime minister

When we talked to

Lee Yuan Kew was Prime

once described his country

actually of the American sort.

This, of course, is an enormous aid to international commerce and day to day conversations involving the United States and American citizens.

Despite its very small size, Singapore’s commercial prowess often causes it to be labeled as a middle class power. The island is one of the five founding members of the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN).

LUXE BEAT MAGAZINE • APRIL 2014

18

in 1990 and all indications

British kept these ethnic

some Communist threats,

population’s level of education.

are that he has voluntarily

groups separate to serve

an independent nation of

By draconian measures, the

relinquished his authority.

their own interests.

Malaysia, including Singapore,

harbor and environment in

was formed in 1963.

general were cleaned up.

Therefore, today, the

As the island grew and

country seems a safe location

prospered as a trade center,

However, the rest of Malaysia

Systematic landfill programs

for foreign investment. Its

it was designated a crown

felt considerable resentment

were also started. Lee’s aim

business- friendly environment

colony of the Empire.

towards the Chinese majority

was to promote Singapore as

evidently influenced wealthy

Singapore had its share

in Singapore. Most of

a banking and business center.

Hong Kong residents to

of colonial trappings, such

Malaysia was Muslim, whereas

From 1965 to the present,

move considerable capital

as British race courses

Singapore was not. Problems

Singapore has pulled itself up

over to Singapore, after

and the Raffles Hotel.

climaxed two years later, when

by the proverbial bootstraps

Singapore was expelled from

to achieve the status of an

invaded the country in late

the Malaysian Federation and

economic power house. It

1941 into early 1942. From

was left to function on its own.

trades actively with other

In 1965, now independent

Pacific Rim countries, the

the Communist Chinese takeover in 1997.

The Japanese attacked and

History of Singapore

1942-1945, the Japanese

Like the U.S., the country

occupation of Singapore

and responsible for its own

U.S. and Europe. It has

is indeed a “nation of

was brutal to an extreme.

well-being, Singapore truly

reasonably good relations

immigrants.” The British took

Not only scores of British

fit the bill of the “third world

with Malaysia, the nation of 20

over the island in the early

war prisoners perished

hellhole” described in the

million from which it was cast

1800s, officially founding

in camps, but Singapore

London musical. Unlike the

out 40+ years ago. Because

Singapore in 1819.when it

residents (especially the

rest of Malaysia, the country

of the state of the world in

was a virtually uninhabited

overseas Chinese immigrants

had no natural resources,

general, and the fact that

rainforest jungle. Sir Stamford

who had supported Chiang

such as rubber or tin. The

the western tip of Indonesia

Raffles established the site as

Kai Shek) were subject to

Singapore harbor had been

and 200 million Muslims

a trading post of the East India

widespread massacres. The

neglected for decades and

are only 90 miles away,

Company, after negotiations

Sook Ching massacre claimed

was run down and polluted.

Singapore understandably

with the Sultan of Johor. They

thousands of Chinese lives

Truly, much of the island

maintains a defense force.

recruited a host of laborers

and is well documented in a

could be described as a

from mainland China, to help

Singaporean history museum.

mosquito-ridden rainforest.

build a settlement along a

After World War II,

Prime Minister Lee saw that

Summary In summary, the city state of

potentially great harbor. Later,

Singapore resumed its status

his nation’s sole resource

Singapore is a comfortable

Malaysians and Indians also

as a British colony. It became

was its people. Therefore,

place in which to do business

were recruited. Initially, the

self-governing in 1959. After

he set out to increase the

and a fascinating place to visit.

19

APRIL 2014 • LUXE BEAT MAGAZINE

CRYSTAL SAILS INTO ASIA C

by Marilyn Green

ombining the

the near telepathic, warm

to 34 in 2014, Crystal offers

a Beijing-Tokyo voyage

incredible luxury

service, Crystal provides

itineraries exploring China,

with Osaka, Nagasaki,

of Crystal Cruises’

stimulation and cosseting

Japan, Thailand, Singapore,

and Shimizu, Japan; and

impeccable

in such measure that it’s a

Vietnam, Cambodia, Indonesia,

Shanghai and Dalian, China

very hard act to follow.

Malaysia, Myanmar and

includes a complimentary

Brunei. The five- to 29-day

Beijing land package.

service, superb dining and enrichment experiences of all

The line is substantially

A very unusual and colorful

kinds – with Asia is a recipe

expanding its presence

cruises offer a host of itinerary

for enchantment. The Crystal

in Asia next year, bringing

firsts and varied options.

Experience has been rated

both the 922-passenger

World’s Best more than any

Crystal Symphony and the

first-ever cruises to begin and/

Bangkok, with a once-in-a-

other cruise line, hotel, or

1,080-passenger Crystal

or end in Bangkok and a two-

lifetime New Year’s Eve built

resort in history, and there’s

Serenity to the region in

week voyage round-trip from

around a spectacular light

a reason for that. From the

winter, spring and fall. With

Singapore. Bali, introduced

show in Hong Kong. Guests

outstanding appointments

an explosive increase from

as a home port in 2013, is

can add on the preceding

in staterooms and suites to

four Asian cruises in 2012

where four cruises begin or

voyage beginning in Bali,

end, providing options for

without repeating ports.

way to celebrate the holidays

New routes include Crystal’s

pre- and post-cruise stays.

In addition, for the first time,

For those with less time or who want to combine a cruise

Crystal will make maiden

with more land experiences,

visits to Malacca, Malaysia;

shorter Crystal Getaways

Lombok, Makassar/Ujung

offer new Asia cruises for as

Pandang and Surabaya,

little as five days – starting

Indonesia. Crystal’s ships also

at just $1,520 per person.

return to some fascinating

20

is a new cruise, roundtrip

Every 2014 Crystal Asia

ports its ships have not visited

cruise features at least two

for several years, including

overnight stays, with the

Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei;

ship acting as a floating

Jakarta and Komodo Island,

hotel as guests take in the

Indonesia; Yangon, Myanmar;

sights by night and day in

Koh Samui, Thailand; Kuala

rich destinations like Hong

Lumpur, Malaysia; and

Kong, Ho Chi Minh City,

Okinawa and Tokyo, Japan.

Yangon and Shanghai.

Also, for the first time in

Onboard, there are surprises

five years, two cruises will

for guests who haven’t cruised

explore more of Japan, as

with the line recently. Crystal

well as China. For example,

has opened up its dining

APRIL 2014 • LUXE BEAT MAGAZINE

schedule and set its fares to include gratuities, dining in specialty restaurants and beverage, both fine wines and premium spirits and specialty coffees, bottled water and soft drinks. From its Nobu restaurants and the enormous wine section to its exquisite breakfasts, the ships please a very demanding clientele.

Formal evenings have been reduced and most nights the dress is country club casual.

Fares now cover beverages (including fine wines and premium spirits, plus all nonalcoholic beverages such as bottled water, soda, juices and specialty coffee drinks); gratuities for housekeeping, dining and bar staff; and dining in the ships’ specialty

seafood will from sustainable

offers a varied and creative

and receive top ratings,

restaurants and sushi bars.

and fair trade vendors.

selection of shore excursions

to the exclusive onshore

from the complimentary service

experiences like touring Florence in a Ferrari ($8,900).

The company is strong on

Crystal pioneered computer

social responsibility, with

learning with its Computer

opportunities that allow guests

policies including sourcing all

University @ Sea labs and it

to help local communities

The line’s two ships are very elegant without being stuffy.

Crystal Serenity received a very well planned $25 million refurbishment in 2011 and the Symphony finished a five-year, $65 million plan to redesign every space on board last year. An important tip: the Penthouse staterooms, complete with beautifully trained butlers, sell out first, so it is best to book early.

Passengers tend to be very well traveled and well educated, with an older demographic on the longer cruises, and friendships are struck up that last years after the cruise is finished.

The combination of Crystal and Asia should be one of the most satisfying yet; the dramatic expansion indicates that the line thinks so.

Photos courtesy of Crystal

LUXE BEAT MAGAZINE • APRIL 2014

21

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NAPLES Story by Mary Haban

Photography by Dale Sanders

Aqua and amber collide to offer views that leave you speechless at The RitzCarlton, Naples.

I

mpeccable service.

Top Shelf Travel

Attention to detail.

Imagine visiting a place where

A sense of passion.

every whim you’ve ever had,

display upon entering the Club

on fresh baked cookies that

The heart and soul of

any request you’ve ever needed

Level Suites. And it shows

tempt from oversized glass

any successful destination

fulfilled, was already anticipated

in the service. Guests are

jars, indulge in decadent

depends on this trifecta coming

before you arrived. This is the

personally greeted by a VIP

chocolates and gourmet

together, in just the right way,

essence of the Inn on Fifth

concierge then escorted to a

coffees, or sip on a variety of

to create a certain synergy.

located at the epicenter of Fifth

private, exclusive, Club Level

beverages in chilled in coolers.

Mix the ingredients correctly

Avenue’s celebrated collection

check-in. Spacious rooms and

and you’re bound to yield a

of restaurants,

legion of adoring fans willing

sidewalk cafes,

to sing your praises to nearly

upscale

everyone they know. Miss

boutiques and

one step, and your fan base

one-of-a-kind

evaporates into the lonely night

galleries in

along with your reputation.

downtown

This is the story about

Naples.

a city called Naples, in

This sleek,

Southwest Florida.

boutique

A story about a place that

property offers

name brand you can imagine.

it recently underwent.

In between, guests can nosh

Modern luxury is on full

suites ranging from 516 to more than

Naples’ Fifth Avenue has a personality all its own

1,100 square feet delight

Why all the fuss with being so fancy? “Our desire is to have the best club level product on the market,” said Cathy Christopher who directs

and entice.

Sales and Marketing for the

If luxury

property. "It was not enough

came in a bottle, the Inn on Fifth would hold the prized patent. Skimping

just to have great suites with every amenity and comfort… we wanted to go beyond that.”

Case in point: The fully stocked bar with premium labels.

values visitors so much, that

119 rooms,

the people in this vibrant

including 32

community came together, like

stunningly appointed Club Level

hotel’s vocabulary. Club

club level bar stocked with the

a finely orchestrated, perfectly

Suites, in two iconic buildings,

Level guests get treated like

very best liquor available. If

prepared meal, to ensure

just steps from one another

rock stars with white glove

we miss something, we want

quality was and will always be

across trendy Fifth Avenue. The

service. A gourmet buffet at

to know so that we can get it

their underlying ingredient.

hotel screams sophistication

breakfast, abundant afternoon

right way,” said Christopher.

and it shows in the nearly

refreshments, and top shelf

$20 million dollar renovation

evening cocktails with every

25

“Our goal to is to keep the

isn’t in this

Added luxuries include an ultra private rooftop retreat

APRIL 2014 • LUXE BEAT MAGAZINE

Culinary creations spring to life under the watchful eye of Chef Charles Mereday at the restaurant that bears his name.

Bask in the sun, soak in the vibes, and look good doing it at The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club.

LEFT: Mood lighting makes a brilliant return at Dusk, the latest dining concept at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples. From sumptuous sushi to craft cocktails, it’s the ultimate way to cap off your evening.

When the sun goes down, there’s no better place to see it set than the Inn on Fifth’s stunning rooftop.

with a tranquil hot tub and

is the wealth of offerings.

spacious sunbathing area.

From upscale wine bars, to

For those interested in living

fancy boutiques, eclectic

large, check out the sprawling

antique shops to food that’s

Presidential Suite, complete

outstanding. Naples and Fifth

with wrap-around balcony

Avenue are raising the luxury

and birds eye view of Fifth

and culinary bar way high when

Avenue. Guests won’t want

it comes to creating original,

to miss the Inn’s newest

tasty, family-owned concepts

since he was 14 years old

brought in the wood used to

culinary endeavor aptly named

that speak from the heart.

and washing dishes back in

make his tables and chairs,

Milwaukee. Now 38, he’s at

from a nearby Florida city.

“Avenue5,” which just had its dazzling debut in February.

Two of the Avenue’s best are, ironically, a stone’s throw away

the top of his game, calling the

from one another. Osteria Tulia

shots, and totally on target.

“There’s nothing stark or sleek here,” he said.

See and Be Seen

(known to locals as Tulia) and

Naples’ Fifth Avenue has a

its talented, industrious chef

I want,” he said, adding that

personality all its own. Located

have worked hard to earn a

the music diners hear in his

steps from the Inn on Fifth,

robust, well deserved following.

restaurant is actually from his

All in the Family

this enviable address boasts

Pop into his restaurant on

own personal playlist. It’s that

Growing up in Florence,

some of the areas best places

any given night and you’re

same sense of confidence that

Italy, Maria Furetta, had two

to dine, drink, and shop while

sure to find a loyal crowd

drives Betulia to make all his

great loves: family and food.

offering up the ultimate stretch

clamoring for the culinary

own cheeses and pastas, while

She would take her passion

of road to drive your vehicle

creations of Sicilian-born Chef/

directing a staff of nearly 70,

for both to her own kitchen

down. It’s not uncommon to

Partner Vincenzo Betulia. He’s

and updating, uploading, and

table in Northern New Jersey

come across a Rolls Royce,

passionate, personable and

wowing the masses with his

and eventually to a small

Bentley, or vintage car. In fact,

wields a razor sharp knack for

Instagram and YouTube posts.

Italian ristorante there. Today,

Fifth Avenue is all about style.

creating buzz and success.

“I change the menu whenever

The look and feel of Tulia

“I wanted to bring a real rustic feel to the place.”

Maria’s creations are the

Make no mistake… there are

isn’t by chance. In fact, in order

inspiration behind Bellini

in this Avenue’s success

no pretenses here. Betulia’s

to bring his vision of an old

Italian Ristorante, located

besides its primo location

been at this a good long time…

Italian farmhouse to life, Betulia

on Fifth Avenue in Naples.

One of the main ingredients

LUXE BEAT MAGAZINE • APRIL 2014

26

contemporary cuisine based on

A sense of completeness

since 1995, Bellini offers

the freshest and finest available

fills the grounds of this family-

upscale, authentic Italian

ingredients the earth can offer.

owned institution that’s been

cuisine with an exceptional

The menus are innovative and

around since the 1800’s.

international staff, expansive

change daily. Diners choose

Owned and operated by the

outdoor dining patio, and

from 3, 4 or 5-course dinner

Watkins family, the hotel has

prime people watching.

menus, and a 3-course lunch,

a long and storied history

with a decadent dessert

centered around something

as the finale to all meals.

you just can’t put a price on

Family owned and operated

Maria’s two children, Stefania and Massimo are making sure

-- creating traditions. Three

their mother’s recipes live on, by working side by side with

Paradise Found

things you will find here are the

her at Bellini. Italy comes alive

Warm tropical breezes dance

very things that set this place

in her original recipes like

atop a dotted line of palm

apart: no resort fees,

the medaglioni di melanzane

trees, which seem to sway

complimentary valet parking,

appetizer. Lightly breaded

in a dignified formation as to

and 125 acres of tropical bliss.

eggplant medallions, layered

signify a respectful bow of

The Naples Beach Hotel &

with fresh tomato sauce, melted

sorts. Perhaps these palms

Golf Club is also Southwest

mozzarella and parmigiano

are paying homage to nature,

Florida’s only beachfront resort

that’s served on bed of mixed

which happens to be a pretty

with onsite golf, where notable

greens. Another family favorite

big deal at this laid-back resort.

names like Jack Nicholas

getting rave reviews

Nature, after all, has

have graced the greens. A full

always played an

service spa, offering inventive

are the greens, fresh mozzarella, local tomato, and sweet basil, dabbled with extra virgin olive oil.

Naples’ Fifth Avenue has a personality all its own

Wine & Dine Naples is home to

important role

Frame-worthy photo opportunities await all who feast their eyes on The Ritz-Carlton, Naples pool deck.

treatments like the Florida

at The Naples

Fruit Fresh Facial, as well as a

Beach Hotel

sprawling Tennis Center, make

& Golf

it easy for the resort to turn first

Club.

time visitors into repeat guests.

Every evening,

Luxury without Limits

the sunset

Perfecting something that’s

drops down its

always been, well, perfect is

proverbial calling card and locals

no easy feat, especially when your customer base expects

Exquisitely prepared Italian peasant cuisine that has you coming back for seconds and thirds at Osteria Tulia.

a growing number of Chef’s

and visitors rejoice. Layers

excellence every time. The

taking the city by storm. Chef

of orange, purple, light blue

team at the Ritz-Carlton,

Charles Mereday, owner of

and a hint of red illuminate the

Naples knew they had a lofty

renovation in 28-years. The

Mereday’s Fine Dining located

skies over the Gulf of Mexico,

challenge…refining one of

project, one of the largest

at the Naples Bay Resort, is

providing a front-row view in

the area’s finest hotels. How

resort renovations within The

one of those trailblazers. If

which to witness nature’s full

would they re-master a resort

Ritz-Carlton Hotel portfolio,

“making an entrance” were on

splendor. A sea of orchids

that already had a bevy of

included a complete overhaul

the menu, diners walking into

occupies a considerable

illustrious awards under its hat?

of all 450-guest rooms,

his impressive establishment

stretch of space on the

would describe it as caviar

property, where over 3,000 of

The company’s mission

dining outlets, the Artisans

colliding with the most exquisite

them are cultivated and proudly

statement would provide

Ballroom as well as various

bottle of champagne. An open

displayed for guests to enjoy.

the ideal blueprint.

structural, mechanical and

floor plan lets guests get up

Nature, art, community and

close with the process of meal

beauty intersect where the

Gentlemen serving Ladies and

making. On most nights, Chef

bromeliads meet the native

Gentlemen.” This motto, which

Mereday is working on the

plants, lining the tranquil

exemplifies the anticipatory

five-diamond, five-star Ritz-

line, overseeing his creations

pathways that lead to the

style of service provided by

Carlton, Naples set out to

to ensure culinary greatness.

resorts 317 newly renovated

staff, came in handy as the

improve what some already

Mereday’s Fine Dining features

guest rooms and suites.

resort underwent its first major

considered immaculate. The

27

Where should they start?

“We are Ladies and

suites, and corridors, three

engineering upgrades throughout the property.

On July 24, 2013, the iconic

APRIL 2014 • LUXE BEAT MAGAZINE

FEATURE result: a jaw-dropping debut

Soft, muted colors, oversized

ever dream of – times ten.

that’s fresh and modern,

illuminated lanterns, and cozy,

Handmade pastas. Homemade

while still staying true to its

intimate seating pair nicely with

breads. Vegetarian dips and

classic and legendary roots.

a menu brimming with sushi

spreads. Hungry yet? Chef

Discerning patrons will

favorites such as fresh sashimi,

Anabella Morillo hopes so.

delight in The Grill’s new

nigiri and maki rolls. An outdoor

She’s created this eatery as

design, featuring a soft gray

patio provides the ideal location

the resort’s all-day, family-

palette, inspired by the Gulf of

to enjoy signature cocktails that

friendly dining concept. The

Mexico after a beautiful summer

blend Asian ingredients with

sleek, modern space boasts

rain. This community favorite

Western influences like the

floor-to-ceiling glass doors

now has a contemporary

“Green Fan” made with spiced

and handsome, decorative,

feel, yet retains the intimate,

rum, sake, cucumber, water,

fixtures that reveal warmth

romantic charm its famous for.

apple and lime juice, maple

while providing the ultimate

Aged prime meats, chops and

syrup and shiso and “Sawtelle,”

welcome. An open-air terrace

fresh seafood paired with rare

a combination of bourbon,

beckons guests to dine amid

vintages, classically crafted

Japanese plum wine and a

the warm gulf breezes and lush

cocktails and an impressive

hint of honey and Campari.

greenery. Signature offerings

collection of international

Terrazza features daring

From mansions to Maserati’s, Naples’ Gulfshore Boulevard provides the perfect backdrop to see it all on Big Momma’s Bicycle Tour.

like Fettuccine Caprese,

all the ingredients in making

award-winning wines make

dishes, created with the

Pappardelle Lamb Ragout and

something successful must

The Grill the decided choice

freshest ingredients sourced

Gnocchi with Crab Meat bring

be measured, then added or

for that special occasion.

from local farmers and

a taste of coastal Italy to this

eliminated if the end result isn’t

purveyors. There’s a Mozzarella

Southwest Florida favorite.

balanced. Naples, Florida gets

Two new dining concepts

Learning what works takes

that. They don’t settle for good,

are now gaining momentum

bar, touting artisan burrata,

for their bold, innovative no-

fresh smoked mozzarella, and

time, sometimes it requires

when great is within reach. And

holds barred themes. Stylish,

traditional buffalo mozzarella.

adjusting, and many times, it

this city won’t think twice about

sultry, and “adults only” defines

And a never-ending breakfast

actually requires starting over

taking it all apart to build it all

Dusk – located on the lobby

buffet that includes all the

from scratch to get it just right.

back up so the foundation is set

level of the Ritz-Carlton, Naples.

bells and whistles you’d

Like a carefully crafted cocktail,

on a cornerstone called quality.

Me? Swim? Right now? Who could pass up this posh pool?

Not many can at The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club.

IF YOU GO: Bellini Italian Ristorante www.BelliniOnFifth.com Big Momma’s Bicycle Tours www.bigmommasbicycles. com Inn on Fifth www.innonfifth.com Mereday’s Fine Dining www.meredaysnaples.com Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club www.NaplesBeachHotel. com Osteria Tulia www.TuliaNaples.com The Ritz-Carlton, Naples www.ritzcarlton.com/en/ Properties/Naples/ Default.htm

Isla Mujeres’

Retreat: Villa La Bella

by Tom Cotroneo

If

How the Villa La Bella Story Began your favorite vacation dream starts with the letters B&B, then

Villa La Bella, on the island of Isla Mujeres, is certain to make your heart go bada bing.

Is there a room with a sweeping view of the Caribbean Sea on your Bed and Breakfast checklist? Villa La Bella delivers in waves of turquoise. Can you visualize yourself sipping a pina colada splashed with ultra-smooth Cuban rum? At Villa La Bella, enjoy all- natural ingredient cocktails served in a freshly cut coconut shell. Now imagine a bathroom where a palm tree cozily threads its way through the roof. This island escape is an overachiever when it comes to exceeding guests’ expectations.

Villa La Bella is the real-life hotelier vision of Curtis and Ashley Blogin. In 2000, these Virginia transplants turned a week-long Isla Mujeres getaway into a “this is where we belong” adventure that continues to this day. The seeds of the Blogins’ entrepreneurial story sprung from their “love at first sight” vacation.

Ashley Blogin remembers the emotion that took hold when she and Curtis first rode the 20-minute ferry from Cancun to Isla Mujeres. “While on the ferry, I remember feeling like I was going home,” Ashley said. During the course of the Blogins’ stay on Isla this sensation grew more intense. “Several days into our vacation we made an offer on the plot of land where our Villa La Bella now stands,” Curtis said.

The year-long Villa La Bella building process is something the Blogins can laugh about now. Not only did the construction start out on the wrong plot of land, there was also the instance of their architect’s case of mistaken identity, and Ashley’s need to brush up on her Spanish.

“We discovered that our first architect wasn’t actually an architect. He was just a wannabe architect,” Curtis said with a smile. Ashley’s “lost in translation” incident can best be told by Ashley herself. “I received a very quizzical expression from one of our staff concerning what I wanted done with our flooring. I found out later from a Spanish-

29

speaking friend that what I was asking for translated to doing something sexual on the floor,” a still red-faced Ashley recalled.

“We discovered that our first architect wasn’t actually an architect. He was just a wannabe architect,” Curtis said with a smile. Ashley’s “lost in translation” incident can best be told by Ashley herself. “I received a very quizzical expression from one of our staff concerning what I wanted done with our flooring. I found out later from a Spanish-speaking friend that what I was asking for translated to doing something sexual on the floor,” a still red-faced Ashley recalled.

What’s in a Name?

The Blogins’ original name for their hotel was

“The international company didn’t like

actually Villa Las Brisas. This name captured

competing with our little B&B, and they

the feeling of the subtle tradewinds that

started legal proceedings regarding our

guests find so refreshing amidst Isla Mujeres’

name. We decided a new hotel name

trademark sunshine. The trouble with this

should honor someone we love,” Curtis

namesake. “Our rescue dog Bella is

name began when the Blogins’ popular Bed

said.

our pride and joy. She gets such a

Villa La Bella owners Curtis & Ashley Blogin (above)

warm reception from our guests that

and Breakfast started generating a higher Internet search engine listing than an

Part of the charm of Villa La Bella is the

we named our business after her,”

international hotel chain of the same name.

four-legged friend that is the hotel’s

Ashley said.

Colorful Island The Villa La Bella environment is awash in color. The B&B is painted with lively oranges, blues, reds, yellows, and greens that not only brighten your stay, but are mindful of the Mayan culture that is deeply rooted throughout the Yucatan area. Many of the Villa La Bella walls are adorned with Mayan artifacts, masks, and even relics from the Caribbean Sea that add history, flavor, and memories to a guest’s stay.

Ashley’s new home is also her personal picking paradise. She loves searching the ocean coastline along the Villa La Bella perimeter for seashells, coral, and beach glass. She

Villa La Bella colors

puts these treasures to use by making artistic creations with her findings. Ashley’s island gems are showcased in select nooks and crannies throughout the hotel property. The Villa La Bella is so tastefully appointed that guests could spend a whole day just admiring their relaxing surroundings.

Come a Long Way The Blogins can fondly reflect how much their little piece of paradise has grown. “Our first guests in 2001 were honeymooners from Virginia. When they arrived, we hadn’t yet built the steps leading to their lofted bedroom.

Not only did they have to walk up a ladder to their room, we had to carry drinks up.

Fortunately they found this little inconvenience to be charming,” Curtis recalled.

Today’s Villa La Bella is a finely tuned machine.

Ashley begins each day by checking reservations

reservations on their website while Curtis whips up a fresh breakfast for guests. The dynamic duo then go about their day arranging massages, renting golf carts, attending to housekeeping, replenishing supplies, and buying the freshest food and drink ingredients.

There is something especially tranquil about sunset at Villa La Bella. As the day winds down, guests

There is something special about sunset at Villa La Bella.

congregate at the bar, around the pool, near the waterfall, and along the patio

witness the orange gumdrop of

area stretching out toward

a sun plunging into the

the sea. It’s at this time you

shimmering Caribbean horizon,

begin to understand what

a feeling takes hold that says,

Ashley and Curtis felt the

“Villa La Bella is like coming

first time they rode the ferry

home.”

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Pina Colada

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Chef Tylun Pang’s Ono BBQ Chicken

By Michelle Winner

Ingredients 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs For marinade: ¼ cup finely sliced green onions 2 Tablespoons minced garlic

Recipe from author Chef Tylun Pang’s book.

“What Maui Likes to Eat”.

1 Tablespoon peeled and minced ginger 1 cup soy sauce

Executive Chef Tylun Pang has created a “plantation fusion” concept

1 cup light brown sugar

restaurant KO at the Fairmont Kea Lani in Wailea Maui to share what locals

1 cup water

really eat with guests. This family recipe goes with him to every potluck –

1 cup mirin

only the empty pan comes home.

2 Tablespoons sesame oil ¼ to ½ Tablespoon dried chili flakes(more if you like it hot) Garnish: 1 Tablespoon toasted sesame seeds Instructions Prepare green onions, garlic and ginger per ingredient list. Put all into a large container with lid for marinade. Put all other marinade ingredients into the container. Add the boneless chicken thighs, mix well and cover; put in fridge overnight. Turn occasionally for even marinating.

Grill chicken over a moderate kiawe charcoal fire (mesquite is fine) until both sides are done.

If you don’t have a grill you can cook under your oven broiler. Arrange on a platter or individual plates, garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

Prep time includes the overnight marination time. Serves: 6 to 8

Originally published on honestcooking.com.

Place Matters to Rodney Strong Vineyards

By Michelle Winner

W

Taste the "sense of place" in every Rodney Strong Wine. Photo Courtesy of RSVineyards.

brands Rodney Strong and

Today what is remarkable

oceanfront under the stars at

Davis Bynum. Mr. Strong’s

about this winery, now owned

Duke’s Waikiki at the edge of

namesake company planted

by Tom Klein and family, is

the Pacific. We enjoyed

times wonder about the names

grapes of many varietals

that they are continuing to

lovely wines introduced by

of people on the labels. Are

including Sauvignon Blanc,

pioneer innovation in the

Mr. Robert Larsen of Rodney

they real people? Who are

Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon

industry. Their solar energy

Strong Vineyards who also

they? What was their vision?

in the terroir of Alexander

system is one of the largest in

expertly paired them with

Can their vision be tasted in

Valley. In Chalk Hill he was the

the world and they are

Duke’s executive chef’s

this bottle?

first to plant Chardonnay vines

constantly reevaluating and

menu of salad of Mesculin

in 1965. In the Russian River

applying sustainable practices

Greens and Blood Oranges

Well I know one who was very

Valley much like Burgundy,

to safeguard the local ecology.

with Crisp Fried Won Ton

real. There was a Rodney

France, he found the fog cooled

Mr. Klein favors a well-

and Tropical Vinaigrette, first

Strong. Mr. Strong was the

climate perfect for Pinot Noir

balanced portfolio of offerings

course of Panko Crusted

early visionary in Sonoma

and Chardonnay. From south

to include single vineyard

MahiMahi over Braised Kale

County who had the idea that

San Pablo Bay north to

wines, reserve wines, estate

and Beurre Orange, second

this area and all of its micro-

Mendocino, an even wetter and

wines and the consistent

course of Petite Sirloin and

climates could bring forth

cooler climate created

Sonoma County wines.

Maui Onion and Mushroom

world-class wine.

challenges but many of the

At a Rodney Strong Chef’s

Demi- glaze with Yukon

Chardonnay and Pinot Noir

Dinner for International Food

Mashed Potatoes, and the

Rodney Strong Vineyards

vines are above the fog line to

and Travel Writers during the

dessert of Kimo's Original

today encompass two major

produce perfect ripe fruit.

annual conference, we sat

Hula Pie®.

hile wandering the aisles of the local wine store, I some-

Spicy Ahi Amuse Bouche in edible spoons delighted culinary, wine writers at the Rodney Strong Wine Dinner at Duke's Waikiki.

Photography Kurt Winner

Based on the Rodney Strong

respecting the sense of place

tasting notes provided can you

apparent in these beautiful

guess which wine was paired

California wines. We toasted to

Charlotte’s Home Sauvignon

brings bright aromas toasty

with each course? We will give

the “ hula moon” and sipped the

Blanc (Estate)-Light, crisp,

barrel flavor and focused fruit

you one: The “dessert wine”

remarkable wine on the shores

highly aromatic, ripe melon and

flavor with refreshing acidity.

was whatever each of us

of Waikiki. The same moon

pear for Alexander Valley and

wanted to continue drinking.

shining on the fruit of the vines

citrus, mineral, herbaceous

Rodney Strong 2011 Russian

We toasted Messrs. Strong,

growing in their own special

character from Russian River

River Valley Pinot Noir (Estate)-

Klein, winemaker Rick Sayre

place across the sea in

Valley.

Cool night air of this region

and Robert Larsen who hosted

California.

lead to smooth finish.”

produces elegance and class Rodney Strong 2011 Sonoma

with subtle texture, and slightly

Strong Vineyards. We toasted

Alexander Valley Cabernet

Chardonnay -Cool Russian

toasty vanilla character in this

in celebration of Rodney

(Reserve)-”Full bodied, intense

River Valley, Chalk Hill and

medium bodied wine aged

Strong's dedication to

flavors, round ripe tannins…

Sonoma Coast Chardonnay

predominantly in French oak.

the dinner on behalf of Rodney

One of the special places of Rodney Strong, Brothers Ridge Vineyard.

Burgundy Terroirs: Wines of Maison Louis Latour

By Susan Lanier-Graham

O

ne of the highlights of the

recent Food Network South Beach

operated. The family is from AloxeCorton, a small medieval village where the Latour family has been making wine

Wine and Food Festival (SOBEWFF)

since the 17th century. Today, the family

was the wine seminars presented by

has property throughout the Côte d'Or

Wine Spectator and hosted by Bruce

where they raise Chardonnay and Pinot

Sanderson, the magazine's Senior

Noir grapes.

Editor. I attended three seminars

tactics to combat erosion in the vineyards.

The Winemaking Process at Domaine Louis Latour In many ways, the winemaking process today at Domaine Louis

Domaine Louis Latour is a champion of

Latour is much as it was in the

environmentally sound farming. As

earliest days. The grapes are still

Louis-Fabrice Latour said, "Terroir—the

harvested by hand, placed in

soil— is the most important factor in

wicker baskets and taken to a

great wines." Rather than using

selection table at the winery.

chemicals in the growing process, Latour

There, as the grapes move slowly

employs biological methods whenever

generation to run the company. It

along a conveyor, workers sort

possible. The winery works to ensure the

them by hand to eliminate any bad

was a magnificent tasting of six 2009

biodiversity of the Pinot Noir and

grapes. After the sorting, the

Louis Latour Pinot Noir offerings.

Chardonnay varieties, uses alternative

grapes go into a destemmer, then

disease and virus controls rather than

drop into copper wagons and are

insecticides, uses biological protection to

taken by elevator up a floor at the

combat pests and works toward early

winery so that gravity is used

Domaine Louis Latour is one of the

intervention to prevent diseases such as

instead of pumping. After that, the

few wineries in Burgundy still

mildew. It is important to the family that

grapes go into one of the more

completely family owned and

they practice aggressive conservation

than nearly four dozen 100 year-

during the festival, including one examining the Burgundy Terroirs and wines of Maison Louis Latour. Our gracious host was Louis-Fabrice Latour, general managing director of the winery and the eleventh

About Domaine Louis Latour

The winemaking process today at Domaine Louis Latour is much as it was in the earliest days.

-old oak fermentation vats.

Latour leaves the skins with the liquid for only 10 to 12 days. After that,

Tasting the Wines Louis-Fabrice Latour introduced his wines with the enthusiasm of a proud parent. With his guidance, along with

Aloxe-Corton 1er Cru "Les Chaillots" 2009, Côte de Beaune

the tasting notes and comments from Wine Spectator's Sanderson, the tasting

This first wine, the Aloxe-Corton

was a lesson in wine making and tasting

Premier Cru "Les Chaillots" is from the village of Aloxe-Corton. This

extracting the color from the skins

along with the pure joy of experiencing

(pigeage) is still done the traditional

magnificent Burgundy Pinot Noirs.

way at Maison Louis Latour—by foot.

Latour explained that he chose 2009

When the winemaker determines that

wines because they are some of the

fermentation is complete, the "free-

best wines ever produced due to ideal

run" wine is drained off through wicker

growing conditions. August and

months and has a gorgeous ruby red

baskets. The pips and skins are then

September 2009 brought days of

color. This is a complex wine with a

warmth and sun, which created

balance between powerful taste and

beautiful deep, brilliant red wines with

acidity. The fruit flavor is up front but

complex flavor profiles. Latour

it has a bit of a mineral finish. It

suggested that if you have a choice

should be a great wine to drink now

pressed to get the best color, fruit and tannins. That deep color wine is added back into the free-run wine and the blended wine is placed in oak barrels for 12 to 18 months. After that time, the quality of each barrel is checked

between 2008 and 2009 wines, you

and only the best goes into the final

should drink the 2009 wines first and

blend and eventually bottled for

let the 2008 wines rest another couple

distribution.

of years.

wine, which received 91 points from Wine Spectator, comes from a vineyard in a stony, pebbly area of Burgundy with high levels of limestone. The wine was aged for 12

or over the next decade and retails for approximately $40.

Volnay 1er Cru "En Chevret" 2009, Côte de Beaune Our second wine, the Volnay Premier Cru "En Chevret" is from rocky soil, high in iron content. The wine has a 92 rating from Wine Spectator. During the tasting, both Sanderson and Latour

the best years to drink this one. It

rich mouthfeel. Unlike the previous wines

retails for approximately $63.

that were aged for 12 months, this one is made of wines aged 14 to 18 months. It is a favorite with the major wine

Gevrey-Chambertin 1er cru "Les Cazetiers" 2009, Côte de Nuits

magazines, getting a 93 from Wine Enthusiast and a 92 from Wine Spectator. Both Latour and Sanderson believe this wine will age beautifully over the coming decade. It retails for about $120 per bottle.

defined this wine as "more feminine"

The Gevrey-Chambertin Premier Cru "Les

than the first. I felt that it is definitely

Cazetiers" is from a vineyard just 10 km

more delicate than the Aloxe-Corton

out of Dijon that has maximum exposure

"Les Chaillots." Although it has a less

to the sun early in the day. The wine has

powerful profile, the color is an intense

received 91 points from Wine Enthusiast

ruby red and both the taste and the

and is quite powerful on the palette. The

nose are of plums and strawberries.

Gevrey-Chambertin has subtle floral

This wine, from grapes in the Village

notes, but strong minerals and tannins.

The last of the Latour wines we tasted,

of Volnay with an easterly exposure, is

The nice acidity helps to balance it out

Romanée-Saint-Vivant Grand Cru "Les

and Sanderson referred to this wine as

Quatre Journaux," was also aged longer,

"masculine and powerful." The gorgeous

about 14 to 18 months. It received a 93

dark cherry color and full mouth feel

score from both Wine Spectator and

makes this a memorable wine. This wine

Wine Enthusiast. The wine has notes of

is great to drink now and retails for about

cherry and spice and you can feel the

$50.

tannins on the finish. The finish is quite

much more elegant than the AloxeCorton. Latour suggested this wine will be in its prime between 2015 and 2030. It retails for approximately $50.

Beaune 1er Cru "Vignes Franches" 2009, Côte de Beaune We moved on to the third wine, the

Romanée-Saint-Vivant Grand Cru "Les Quatre Journaux" 2009, Côte de Nuits

powerful, but I believe it still tastes

Château Corton Grancey Grand Cru 2009, Côte de Beaune Corton

Beaune Premier Cru "Vignes Franches", which also received 92

The Château Corton Grancey Grand Cru

points from Wine Spectator. The

is, in my opinion, one of the best wines I

Beaune is an ideal taste following the

tasted the entire weekend at the

first two wines because it has the

SOBEWFF. In 1891, the Latour family

power of the Aloxe-Corton, but the

took over Château Grancey and have

finesse of the Volnay. This big, rich

been producing wines there since that

wine is a deep garnet red with tastes

time. The vines are all over 40 years old

of raspberry, strawberry and a little

and this isn't a wine they make every

pepper. There are noticeable tannins

year. It is a blend of the best Corton

in this wine, which Sanderson

grapes, each aged individually and then

described as "elegant and graceful."

blended. This is a complex, earthy Pinot

Latour explained that this is a wine

Noir that transported me back to the

that can age for a long time, only

green hills of Burgundy. Both the nose

getting better over the next few years.

and taste are fruity yet spicy with a hint of

He suggested 2015 through 2030 as

coffee. The tannins give it a

somewhat young. I believe this will be an incredible wine in a few more years and is possibly one of the best I've tasted anywhere. I love the hint of chocolate and spice in this wine. The complexity brings different aromas and tastes with every sip and it is a joy drinking this wine. Latour suggests this wine will be at its peak in the next five to ten years. It retails for approximately $310 per bottle.

Both the wines of Maison Louis Latour and the director, Louis-Fabrice Latour, are excellent examples of why Burgundy Pinot Noir wines are held in such high esteem throughout the world. From a casual, great-with-dinner wine like the Beaune or Volnay, to an elegant wine for special occasions, like the RomanéeSaint-Vivant or Château Corton Grancey, the wines of Louis Latour make a statement.

Anestis Babatzimopoulos: Distiller, Winemaker, Chef

By Marc d’Entremont

The agile little car took easily to the twisting, hilly roads as Mr. Babatzimopoulos navigated through Thessaloniki’s hill towns, now on the Wine Roads of Northern Greece map, stopping to pick up some fresh tomatoes and bread in one. Cruising through the lush summer countryside the journalist in me commented, through Eva, on seeing only a couple of solar panel farms in this sunny land. With a large gesture, Anestis replied he was happy because he wanted nothing to mar the view. It certainly was a grand view. At nearly 2,000 feet the eyes took in sweeping vistas of classic rural Greece with the sea glinting in the distance.

I

Outside the ancient village of Ossa, the

t was 9:00 a.m. when informed by the desk that the driver had arrived. A dusty

many acres of Domaine Anesti

medium sized car sat out front of the Hotel Mediterranean Palace in Thessaloniki’s

Babatzimopoulou ramble over these

warm moist air. The driver, wearing a buttoned shirt and slacks, his full head of

classic hillsides. Sixty acres are planted

longish gray/white hair combed back over a sun-lined face, spoke no English, and I no

in both native and foreign grapes:

Greek. The awkward silence was broken when Evdokia (Eva) Tsatsouri of the Thessaloniki Hotel Association arrived a few minutes later. She introduced Mr. Anestis Babatzimopoulos, the renowned Greek wine maker, distiller, owner of A. Babatzim & Co, founder of Domaine Anesti Babatzimopoulou, and our driver.

Xinomavro, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grow alongside the white varieties Athiri, Roditis, Assyrtiko, Malvasia, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc.

Chiseled block walls of honey

state-of-the-art wine making facilities,

colored sandstone quarried on the

showing off the oak barrels used in

estate’s lands were used to

aging, the tasting rooms and educational

construct the handsome main

center which caters to both tourists and

winery and outbuildings and the

students.

airy glass walled restaurant –

His family’s been distilling for nearly 140 years.

plans are under consideration for a

We settled at a table on the terrace,

boutique hotel. From the wide

overlooking the vineyards, hills and

terrace with panoramic views of

distant sea, set with a dish of fresh olives

the valleys and hills, a permanent

glistening in oil, three tall glasses, ice

Anestis Babatzimopoulos, his

visitor’s picnic area was visible

water and a chilled bottle of Babatzim

longish white hair flowing in the soft

with each table shaded by a grape

ouzo – his family’s been distilling for

breeze, seemed a character out of

arbor.

nearly 140 years. It’s barely 11:00 in the

central casting.

morning. Apologizing, unnecessarily, Domaine Anesti Babatzimopoulou

through Eva, about his lack of English,

Yet Anestis is a committed third

was serene this July day, meaning

for the next several hours Anestis

generation farmer, distiller, wine

there was no one around. The

effectively expressed, through his hands

maker and businessman whose

winery had just closed to prepare

and natural animated gestures, that he

family had survived the vagaries of

for the August harvest, but for the

holds the Greek language as the best for

empires. It was in 1875 that Anestis’

next week or so, this was Anestis’

feelings and emotions. So too did

family started distilling raki and

break as well. Eva and I were the

centuries of scholars and playwrights.

tsipouro in Constantinople during the

only guests. He escorted us

With a backdrop of brilliant sunlight and

era when that fabled city was the

through the compact 12 year-old

blue sky, the tanned, gently weathered

capital of the Ottoman Empire and in

12 FEBRUARY 2014 • LUXE BEAT MAGAZINE

control of Greek Macedonia. Uprooted

computers with ancient farming methods,

Anestis sautééd chicken cutlets in

during the 1922 transfer of populations

he has noticed a good effect on his

olive oil, caramelized onions and

between the new republic of Turkey

health as a farmer. Anestis states the

peppers, and flamed all with his

and Greece, Anestis’ grandfather

grapes are healthier, and the wines do

vineyard’s classic Greek white roditis.

settled in Thessaloniki where A.

not need as many added preservatives.

He finished it off with the juice of a

Babatzim & Co distillery thrived and expanded.

couple lemons. Thin pork cutlets were Many of the estate’s 700 trees – fruit and

similarly treated and added to a thick

nuts dominate – as well as rose bushes

bubbling tomato sauce. Pasta, feta

Born out of Ottoman religious bans on

serve as bellweathers. If they become ill

cheese with herbs & olive oil, Greek

wine, entrepreneurial Greek

he takes aggressive action to eradicate

salad, bread and wine completed

winemakers found a distilled spirits

the problem on these sympathetic plants

lunch.

loophole thus giving birth to raki and

but preventative measures on the grape

tsipouro. Raki was made from grape

vines. This growing method for 1,870

mash and leaves, whereas tsipouro

grape vines, all harvested by hand using

only from the mash. The more refined

local villagers, is more labor intensive. In

distillation, ouzo, kept vineyards alive

the past 14 years Anestis’ major

for centuries of Ottoman rule and

complaint has been his inability to

became the spirit of a nation. The EU

maintain his once daily swim.

recognized ouzo and tsipouro as original Greek distillations in 1987,

In the stone and glass walled restaurant,

whereas raki was recognized as Turk

chef Anestis Babatzimopoulos prepared

since it was created under the

our lunch of classic dishes while

Ottoman Empire. A. Babatzim & Co’s

expressing equal passion about using

ouzo and tsipouro continue as national

Greek products rather than the trend

leaders.

toward imports. He says word-of-mouth does more for his business, and those of

Anestis built Domaine Anesti

his neighbors, than any ad campaign.

Babatzimopoulou in 1999 outside

Yet he’s working on developing an

Ossa yet his research into the viability

association of the best producers,

of an organic vineyard for Greek

farmers and village markets to promote

grapes started 30 years before.

their regional honey, beef, cheese,

Perhaps that’s why his Ossa label is

produce and wine, and he wants to

sought after on several

preserve the traditions of raki and

continents. His 32-year-old son is the

tsipouro.

fourth generation in the business, and with an American university degree in the psychiatry of business, Anestis hopes his son will continue being a hands-on manager out in the fields.

Through body language and Eva’s translation, Anestis expressed passion for his 42-year career and his patrimony. Utilizing cutting edge organic growing techniques, which are largely based on the marriage of

12 FEBRUARY 2014 • LUXE BEAT MAGAZINE

Ossa’s white roditis, a grape steeped in Greek wine making tradition, was light and dry with notes of honeysuckle and grapefruit. It matched the cool dry breeze at this elevation.

Anestis considers rosé to be the "most erotic of wine." Ossa’s rosé, made from the Xinomavro grape, was light, dry yet complex with slightly astringent cranberries giving way to raspberries and summer flowers.

With Domaine Anesti Babatzimopoulou's education and tasting rooms, meeting space, wines, restaurant, not to say the view, it’s obvious why a boutique hotel would be a natural compliment. It complements the culinary, farm-to-table and green travel which

Domaine Anesti Babatzimopoulou, Ossa, Langadas 57200 Greece

Greek tourism associations highlight. It complements a particularly Greek outlook on life: food and wine as an excuse to get together with family, friends and community.

Disclaimer: The author was a guest of Domaine Anesti Babatzimopoulou, Thessaloniki Hotel Association and the Halkidiki Tourism Organization.

For tours and reservations: Tel: (+30) 2310 519705 or 2310-722309 Fax: (+30) 2310-511465 email: info@babtzim.gr

12 FEBRUARY 2014 • LUXE BEAT MAGAZINE

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What do Téa Leoni, Carrie Ann Inaba, Colin Cowie, and Kim Vo Have in Common—Aqua Tan

By Maralyn D. Hill Do you want to make a

With wedding season

fashion statement with your

approaching, brides love this

skin sporting a lovely natural

product as it does not come off

looking glow? That is a

on dresses. Men love it too

challenge many face and we

because it doesn’t feel like a

found Hollywood insiders’

makeup product. It’s clean and

secret. When Tina Turnbow

clear and smells fresh!

of the New York Times asked Téa Leoni her

Unexpectedly, I discovered

secret for her sun-kissed

Aqua Tan Products five years

glow, Leoni responded,

after the company started and

“Aqua Tan self-tanning

was pleasantly pleased. The

products…”

line has been a tremendous hit and will enhance your body

Other industry insiders who

with a glorious natural-looking

love Aqua Tan include

tan.

Carrie Ann Inaba, Dancing with the Stars; Colin Cowie,

The quest for a good self-

Style Maker to the Stars;

tanning product was on my

Kim Vo, Stylist to the Stars;

agenda for 20+ years. I had

make up artists at

tried many, but none provided

Bloomberg TV; and

the finished result that I desired

discerning clients of the

until Aqua Tan.

Peninsula Beverly Hills Spa. Aqua Tan was named

Since Aqua Tan offers many

a “Summer Beauty

alternatives, picking those to

Obsession” by People

start with was a challenge. But

Magazine.

I narrowed my decision down to three: Aqua Tan Gentle

Aqua Tan was launched at

Purifying Gelee, Aqua Tan Self

the Cannes Film Festival in

Tanning Body Milk, and 100%

2003 because Fashion Film

Natural Aqua Tan Self-Tanning

and Elegance evoke the

Spray for Faces.

Colin Cowie. Photo courtesy of Lev Radin Shutterstock.com.

When Tina Turnbow of the New York Times asked Téa Leoni her secret for her sun-kissed glow, Leoni responded, “Aqua Tan selftanning products…”

brand.

Tea Leoni photo courtesy of Debbie Wong Shutterstock.com.

What do Téa Leoni, Carrie Ann Inaba, Colin Cowie, and Kim Vo Have in Common—Aqua Tan

By Maralyn D. Hill Few travelers have heard of the Rio Negro, which flows southeast a short distance along the Venezuela and Colombia border and then winds its way through the Brazilian state of Amazonas; it meets up with the also little-know Rio Solimoes to form the mighty and renown Amazon River.

What many people don’t realize is that both rivers are larger than the Mississippi. Their conjunction is near Manaus, the gateway city to the Amazon Basin, about the same size as Houston, the fourth largest city in the U.S. Despite the size of the rivers, the basin has 11 rivers larger than our Mississippi River. The river city of Manus, and its surrounding jungle is little populated. Most tributaries are more than 50 miles upstream from confluence with the Amazon are isolated. The Rio Negro, for example, has numerous

waterways where few transport barges or villages exist. Local Indians paddling dugout canoes are rare, on many waters. The Amazon jungle does have an abundance of small waters teeming with exotic fish that are hundreds of miles from a paved road or other vestige of civilization.

That’s why discovering a luxurious fishing and ecotour operation far from any crowds is unique and attractive to this angler. I’ve fished all over the world,

and no fish is as exciting as the peacock bass which is endemic to the Amazon River Basin. The Rio Negro and its tributaries are prime waters for the fish and the encompassing beauty of the Amazon flora and fauna.

Cruising the waterway is special and seductive, particularly when doing it in style.

I have spent more than 75 weeks cruising the remote and isolated Amazon waters of Brazil and seeing a variety of wildlife. The beautiful environment along the equator can be harsh, and

that’s why I prefer to enjoy the accommodations of a luxury yacht operation like Captain Peacock Yachts & Expeditions. I’ve traveled with numerous other outfitters/operations in the jungles of Brazil and no one offers more.

After a night in a 4-star business hotel in Manaus, a 42 seat Bombardier ATR42 twin engine turbo prop charter plane whisks up to 20 guests to the Rio Negro’s primary town of Barcelos, also known as the Tropical Fish Capital of the World. Laying eyes on the

Photo courtesy of Aqua Tan.

Why I recommend these

Next, I applied Aqua Tan

It took about 2 hours for my

results. What I especially

products for a fashion pick-

Self-Tanning Body Milk

tan to appear. Even though

liked was not having to apply

me-up is based on my own

($42) everywhere except my

I thought I had been careful,

it every day. Instead,

experience. A week before

face. When you open this

there were 3 or 4 spots I

between applications, I used

attending a meeting where I

tube, its aroma is fresh and

missed. So I applied a little

regular body lotion during

wanted to appear to have a

the product is white, light,

more to those starkly

the time I had my Aqua Tan.

nice tan, I started my

thin and silky. As you apply it

contrasting areas, and

I'm sure the Aqua Tan

experiment. The Aqua Tan

over your body, it soaks in

within a few hours I had a

Sensual Tan Extender

Gentle Purifying Gelee

like a lotion. A combination

healthy overall tan. Over the

($40) will help enhance

($36) did a lovely job as a

of Shea Butter, Kukui Nut

next 5 days, I applied the

everyone's tan and make

gentle exfoliate in the

Oil, Avocado Oil, Cocoa

body milk 2 more times. It

them last a little longer and I

shower. Its combination of

Butter, Vitamin E, and

took about 10 days before I

am going to try it. This

white tea, cucumber, and

Vitamin B5 work together to

had to apply any more. As

rejuvenating lotion contains

green tea extracts along with

nourish your skin while

this application faded away

CoQ10, Avocado Oil, Shea

fruit enzymes, was soothing

leaving it soft. The body milk

over another 10 days, I

Butter and Kukui Nut Oil and

and not harsh, with a light

dried fast and I only needed

used the exfoliate to

was a top pick for “Sex and

fruit scent. Dull skin was

a few additional minutes

eliminate any leftover spots.

the City”—How could they

washed away and my body

before getting dressed. It

felt soft. This lasted several

has been named “Best

I repeated the above

months with bi-weekly use.

Overall Self Tanner.” This

process five weeks later

It's tempting to say I've

A little goes a long way.

works for men and women.

with the same exceptional

saved the best for last.

be wrong?

I can’t pick a favorite…

But I can't pick a favorite between the body milk and the 100% Natural Aqua Tan Self Tanning Spray for Faces ($40).

You spray the latter on your face and spread evenly with your fingertips. Like the other products, it contains powerful antioxidants for protecting your skin against free radicals, combined with nourishing botanicals, Awapuhi, Papaya, Cucumber and Aloe Vera extracts. Its light fragrance is refreshing and all natural.

I used this spray every day for 4 days and then every 3rd day. I absolutely love its feel and results. This product lasted me for over 3 months.

With wanting skin to have a healthy glow without the sun, you can show it off, knowing you are using a safe product. The manufacturer says its formula makes a difference. “DHA (dihydroxyacetone), a fermented sugar, reacts with amino acids in the top layer of the skin to produce a healthy tan.

DHA is the only self-tanning ingredient approved for safe use by the FDA.” Aqua Tan products have my vote and endorsement and can be purchased online at www.aqua-tan.com.

So get your Aqua Tan and be ready to show off your fashions with glowing skin. Please be sure to let me know how you enjoy the product.

Carrie Ann Inaba photo courtesy of Jaquar PS Shutterstock.com.

Twelve Tracker Marine bass boats make up the new fleet of fishing boats that comfortably move anglers about the remote rivers and lagoons of the Amazon Basin. Photo above. you may just miss the following day’s fishing. When guests come in from fishing, a cocktail of their choice is placed in their hands and hot and freshly prepared hors d’oeuvres are quickly served on the open-air lounge deck.

Items depend on what the chef is in the mood to present and vary from sushi to local pastries to empanadas to creative meat finger food.

Luxe Beat Interviews Fashion Designer Julian Chang

By Michelle Winner Fashion Designer Julian Chang is a man-about-theworld. Growing up in Peru, the son of a Chinese father and Peruvian mother Julian's multi-cultural environment embraced support for family, loyalty, integrity, education, and a strong work ethic. Today he brings his international love of color to his base of operations and inspiration in Miami, Florida. A talented fashion designer who understands a woman's shape and accentuating her best features, his designs are cut to flatter. In more than 500 boutiques worldwide, his collections are popular with stylish women and celebrities.

Julian defines his fashion perspective by telling LBM, “Style is not based on brand names, labels or latest season’s must haves. Style is within yourself. My collections bring you an effortless look by mixing timeless, comfortable pieces that you love and will always be relevant to your wardrobe.

Miami’s lifestyle is my inspiration, so I mix glamour with sexiness and confidence.”

As a young man he was interested in art and design, but his epiphany came when his sister took him to his first fashion show. This new world opened in him an opportunity to use

Julian Chang

Photography courtesy of Julian Change Design.

his art and design in fashion. As it became his passion, his mother realized he needed to go to the United States to attend fashion design school. Julian graduated from The Miami Art Institute in Miami, Florida as a stand-out student.

He has served internships doing fashion illustrations for several magazines, and free-lancing design for men’s, children’s clothes, and swim-wear. After graduating he

Luxe Beat Magazine recently had the opportunity to learn more about this young talent through an interview:

Tell us about your newest collection. Where did you find your inspiration? How would you define the style your line exemplifies?

became an Assistant Designer for sports-wear and within eight months was named Head Designer. This rapid advancement gave him the confidence to go off on his own and create his own small evening collection under his own label “Julian Chang”. Julian has received top honors including MIFW Pret-a-Porter Designer of the Year, Pret-a-Porter Style Award, Ebenzer Award of Honor World Fashion in Korea, Florida International’s Designer Star Winner, Vogue En Espanol Designer’s Choice Award, and Cadillac Luxury Lifestyle Award.

I just completed my Fall 2014 Collection I am very excited about the Collection because I was able to locate new fabrics with interesting textures. The Collection was inspired by an Uptown City Girl with touches of femininity and a hint of innocence. The style is modern and romantic with simple lines and an intricate mix of fabrics.

What does fashion mean to you?

Fashion is my reason for being. It is the foundation of my lifestyle and makes me feel excited, creative, and as if I am giving back of myself to others.

Women’s Wear Daily selected Chang as the “Up and Coming Ready-to-Wear Designer to Watch.” He is also the Gen Art Fresh Faces Award winner, and recipient of The Key to the City of Miami Beach, Vox Out Award,

How would you define your

and AI Alumni Wall of Fame. In 2010 Julian opened the

personal style?

Miami Fashion Week International and was awarded for

Practical and sophisticated. I feel comfortable in Alexander

his Ready to Wear Collection. In regards to his

McQueen when I am in a casual environment. In more formal

community service work, in 2013 Julian was presented

surroundings I tend more toward the styles of Tom Ford.

with the Humanitarian Award by Miami Fashion Week.

saw my sister modeling, and my mother creating fashion as a seamstress, I realized that my artistic desires could best be expressed by creating clothing.

What was the first article of clothing you ever designed?

The first clothing I ever designed was a blouse for my mother, which she wore for a family celebration.

Tell us about your design process. How long does it usually take you to construct a piece? Do you prefer sketching designs or actually constructing them?

Initially I enjoy draping fabrics on a form, and playing with proportions, while letting the fabric communicate with me, or I sketch my designs, and my pattern makers transform them into reality.

What are some of your accomplishments as a designer?

I have dressed many celebrities including Lindsey Lohan, Gloria Estefan, and Paris Hilton, among others. My accomplishments include selling my collections around the world, and seeing people wearing them.

Who are some of your favorite designers? Why? How would you define your city of Miami's fashion?

Diane von Furstenberg: She has reinvented herself so many times and she is still meaningful in the industry after more than three decades.

Sophisticated light and airy with bright colors and sensual overtones; the essence of the Miami woman.

Valentino: I love the cuts, how he thinks women should present themselves, and the glamor that he represents.

When did you realize you wanted to become a fashion designer?

For as long as I can remember I was interested in art, drawing, and creating images. When, as a young teen, I

Lanvin: The styles are very innovative, and always find different ways to be creative outside the then common practices.

Where do you buy your fabrics

What advice do you have for

and other sewing materials?

aspiring fashion designers?

I buy my fabrics and materials typically from Showrooms in

To believe that anything is possible if you work hard

New York and Los Angeles, and from specific manufacturers

enough, and there must be passion in everything you do.

with whom I have traditionally worked in Turkey, France and Italy.

What do you believe makes a quality article of clothing (jewelry,

What are some of your fashion goals?

My short term goals are to launch an accessories collection in the Fall of 2015, and then add a men's

accessory etc.)?

collection the following year.

A quality article will provide high value for the price. A high

What matters to you most as a

quality article with survive beyond current trends and become timeless.

fashion designer? Do you

How do you prepare for a

consider yourself an artist?

fashion shoot or show?

Why or why not?

Preparing for a shoot is a simpler process than preparing for a show. For a show I typically take several months to create the environment and backdrop for the show, determine the sequence on the runway, and the overall impression it will create. The preparation for the show becomes part of the creative process for the collection. In contrast, the preparation for a shoot is a more practical process of selecting (a) model(s), scheduling my photographer, makeup and hair persons and stylist, and coordinating the timing and details with my producer, to provide a photo collection that best depicts the collection.

It is important to me to have a unique identity as a designer and to establish a message and/or mood in my collections. Of course I am an artist; the process of fashion design is creative and provides a means of expressing my emotions on a blank canvas.

Well its time to let you get back to your work. Thank you Julian for sharing your creativity and beautiful

What do you look for in a model?

designs with Luxe Beat

What type of person best

Magazine.

represents your brand? How do you select them?

Shop Julian’s collections on-line at his web-site, and

In a runway model I focus on slim features and a walk that will depict

in high-end boutiques in the United States and

my design as I intended it to look and be worn. For a photo shoot I

throughout the world. Another unique item to note: all

look more for a model who can express herself and my designs

of his designs are made in America.

through her eyes. I cast several dozen models and ask them to walk

http://julianchang.com

for me when selecting models for a show. I will typically cast fewer models for a shoot and use a one-on-one fitting. The person that will best represent my brand is a woman who is youthful, sensual and with unique looks.

Kelley Derrett: Sustainable Fashion for the Sophisticated Woman A

s a 16-year-old working in a Toronto department store, Kelly Derret had

dreams of a career in the fashion industry. If you told

renewal. The search for sustainable fabrics has taken Kelley to Turkey, India and China where she works with farming communities and mills to create new and interesting fabrics and yarns that have an element of sustainability.

her that she would be traveling the world as a savvy businesswoman and launching her namesake brand in

“I have amazing long term relationships with various

the Spring of 2014…she might not believe you. Fast

factories in China and India. It all begins with a good quality

forward to present day and she has done just that. After

yarn or piece of fabric. You need to be experienced to the

years in the Fashion business managing brands and

touch and feel a yarn or fabric and know it will translate into

directing teams, Kelley has taken the leap and offers

a wonderful quality garment.”

her own sensibility in design through products she loves.

And experience is something she is not lacking. Kelley launched an athletic-lounge line under the name

“My collection mirrors my personal approach to dressing

‘greenclothing’ in 2007, proving that designers can create

and complements the lives of sophisticated, modern,

garments with a social conscience and a healthier option for

and well-travelled women,” says Kelley. “The line

the growers and the surrounding communities. This began

embraces a modern approach to dressing, focusing on

the introduction process to brands in Canada and the UK.

clean, meaningful cuts while recognizing the seasons’

What followed were sustainable fashions being launched by

most relevant trends, and with an eye to sustainability.”

brands such as Monsoon, Pink Tartan, Roots, Joe Fresh and Jessica at Sears.

Fashion’s Eye to the Earth Her focus on environmentally minded fashion makes her Spring collection unique and a celebration of the season of

What is Sustainable Fashion?

Sustainable fashion, also called eco fashion, is a part of the growing design philosophy and trend in sustainability,

the goal in which is to create a system that can be supported indefinitely in terms of environmentalism and social responsibility.

From Start to Fashion A world traveler, Kelley is passionate about scouring the retail landscape, discovering what is new each season. “No matter what city or country I am in, there is something to absorb and inspire.”

The overall process of creating her collection took four to five months. Beginning with market research, where she visited and shopped her way around various cities to developing the perfect fabric and yarns. From there came style development including sketching, technical and working with the factories on proto-samples and final production.

“It is about more than one garment, but an assortment of styles that create a story,” says Kelley.

That story is inspired by Miuccia Prada, Alexander Wang and Stella McCartney. “Miuccia Prada is always ahead of the pack and her experience gives her so much credibility,” says Kelley. “New and emerging designers like Alexander Wang provide an edge to the business and Stella McCartney's maturity dresses women as women. I hope to express that with my own collection.”

The Kelley Derrett Spring 2014 line celebrates the season.

Colors include updated cobalt, coral and hydrangea, an

“My collection mirrors my personal approach to dressing and complements the lives of sophisticated, modern, and well-travelled women,” says Kelley.

enchanting shade of purple, emerges anchored by essential black. Silhouettes include the continuation of asymmetrical shapes plus long dresses, tunic length sweater knits and baseball style influences.

The line also included capes, hi-low hems and introduces the new midi length (sitting just below the knee) in skirts, dresses and knit bottoms. Sweater knits feature open stitches in pointelle and mesh patterns and shaker stitches bring back a sense of history. Our favorite slub yarns offer texture while viscose blends provide shine and elegance. The modal jersey blends support sustainability for a well-rounded collection every woman will love.

Future of Fashion Toronto is a city of varied cultures, resulting in a more sophisticated European influenced style of dress making it the perfect location for the Kelley Derrett line to call home.

“It is the business of fashion, so you need to be creative but grounded,” advises Kelley for those who hope for a future in the industry.

What does the future hold for Kelley? Her goal is to expand her namesake brand from an online presence to a permanent street front location as well…and many more dreams. Only time will tell for this talented designer.

“Some designers feel they are

Photography courtesy of Kelley Derrett.

artists…I like the design element of fashion.”

To learn about hosting a trunk show with Kelley or to check out the Kelley Derrett Spring collection visit www.kelleyderrett.com.

Oh la la, Cal-a-Vie Spa Brings Pampering and Provence to Southern California

By Dena Roche

W

hen it comes to five star destination spas it’s hard

result is an instant feeling of

female week and the other 21

relaxation.

women I meet are fascinating, ranging in age from mid 20s to

really rank them: they all offer gorgeous accommodations,

There is no real check-in process

60 plus. The camaraderie that

great treatments, fitness and

other than being led to my spa

developed within our group was

18th

19th

one of my favorite aspects of

healthy food. What it really

villa room featuring

comes down to is a certain je ne

century French furniture mixed

the spa. The group interplay

sais quoi that is highly personal.

with modern touches like Italian

was stronger than it was at

linens and Turkish towels. I meet

other destination spas I’ve

Arriving at Cal-a-Vie, a

with a scheduler to talk about my

visited and especially nice for

destination spa nestled 40

goals for the trip, my fitness

the extroverted solo traveler.

minutes north of San Diego, I

interests and my spa treatments,

The energy at Cal-a-Vie is

feel like I’m pulling up to a

so she can craft perfect schedules

mellow, and the impression I’m

friend’s massive French Country

for me during my three day

left with is that this is the spa to

estate (If my friends owned 200

stay. Trips to Cal-a-Vie are three

visit when you’re looking for all

acre properties in Provence!)

day, four day or week getaways.

out luxury, pampering, fitness

and

and a lot of relaxation. The vibe

The architecture and manicured grounds are stunning, and the

The week I’m at Cal-a-Vie is an all

is laid-back European to match

This is the spa to visit when you’re looking for all out luxury.

Cal-a-Vie offers a decent amount of fitness options throughout the day. the décor. The staff to guest ratio is 5:1 and it’s reflected in the service. The special requests I heard were accommodated with a smile.

But don’t let me lead you to believe it’s all primping and pampering. Cal-a-Vie offers a decent amount of fitness options throughout the day. The morning is about getting your heart pumping with classes like belly dancing, Barre camp, TRX, and Piloxing. While the afternoon is time to integrate body and mind with offerings like chakra yoga, stretch, tai-chi or meditation. Some of these classes are held in the cozy hillside chapel that was shipped stone by stone from Dijon, France and painstakingly reassembled at Cala-Vie. Because of the small number of guests, I end up having many private fitness classes during my stay. Each day begins with an optional 6:30 am hike on the mountains surrounding Cal-a-Vie. The La Petite Plan (three-day stay) I am on includes six spa treatments; two massages, facial, reflexology, hydrotherapy and a scalp and hair service. Guests can upgrade the basic services to treatments like Thai massage, craniosacral therapy or even acupuncture. The masseuses were especially good and willing to tailor the massage to my specific needs.

.

Photography courtesy of Cal-a-Vie

They (Cal-a-Vie) do daily laundry for their guests so you can really pack next to nothing.

Quality nutrition is a hallmark of any destination spa and Cal-a-Vie is no

Another unique aspect of Cal-a-Vie is that it has to be

exception. Guests are given the option of a 1500 or 1200 calories per day

the only spa with a serious antique store on

plan. I opt for the 1500 and for me the portions felt bigger than what I eat at

site. John and Terri Havens, the owners of Cal-a-Vie,

home, although this wasn’t the case for everyone. Comments from the group

are Francophiles with a love for French antiques. So

included jokes about licking the plate to get it all and confessions of eating a

many guests asked about buying the furniture and

stash of power bars in two days. The food philosophy at Cal-a-Vie is eating

accessories in the spa that Cal-a-Vie recognized

clean so there is a focus on organic produce and proteins, low gluten and

another business opportunity and in late 2013 opened

seasonal and regional offerings. The result is nutritionally balanced meals that taste delicious. Any and all diets can be accommodated. Meals are taken as a group at the same time each day and provided the ideal platform to get to know the other women. No alcohol is served at Cal-a-Vie, though they will gladly order it from the adjacent country club for you to enjoy in your

the store which specializes in 18th and 19th century French antiques.

The end of a perfect day at Cal-a-Vie One thing I love about destination spas is that the setting and energy allow me to turn my monkey mind

room. Many of the guests (yours truly included) packed their beverage of

off and simply relax. I find tranquility at Cal-a-Vie on

choice alongside the fitness gear in their luggage.

the hiking trails, sitting alone paging through a magazine by the fire in the Garden Room, and

One thing that sets Cal-a-Vie apart from other spas I’ve covered is that they do

journaling in my room that lacks a TV for mindless

daily laundry for their guests so you can really pack next to nothing. They also

entertainment. The kind of quiet found at Cal-a-Vie is

provide tee shirts, sweats and shorts, but a word to the fashionistas, they are

hard to find in the “real” world and is an ideal catalyst

basic 1980s grey sweats and not the stylish Lululemon you might be accustomed to.

for inspiration.

To experience Cal-a-Vie for yourself visit Cal-a-Vie.

Two Nights in the Old Faithful Inn, Yellowstone

By Debi Lander

I drove along with a mixture of goose bumps and glee. Driving within the park proceeds slowly. Backups occur whenever a large animal appears. Drivers simply stop in the middle of the road and attempt to take photos out car windows. Many step out of their vehicles even though they are warned not to do so.

I found myself snaking up and over a forested mountain pass, then gazing out on a grassy valley filled with bison and elk. I passed otherworldly geo-thermal hot spots, boiling mud pots and, of course, shooting geysers like Old Faithful. Honestly, this park showcases the most jaw-dropping variety of mystical, movie set landscapes I have ever seen.

Old Faithful Inn Good fortune was shining on me as I had secured reservations at the historic Old Faithful Inn, which is operated by Xanterra. The rustic timber constructed lodge first welcomed guests in 1904. It has withstood severe winters, a 7.5 magnitude earthquake and the fires of 1988. I was overcome with gratitude and humbled when I stepped into the massive 76 feet, six inch tall lobby. The twisted wooden supports are tree trunks and a huge fireplace and chimney beckon. You are pulled in and just want to sit down and savor the space. One floor up rests a bar, perhaps an even better place to spend a little time enjoying the rustic setting.

The designated National Historic Landmark was the design of Robert Reamer, a 29-year-old architect from Ohio who utilized local logs and stone to create a semi-indoor forest. Construction of the original 140 rooms took just 13 months. In 1913, Reamer designed an addition for the East Wing and in 1927, the West Wing extension. Today there are 327 guest rooms and the Inn is considered the largest log structure in the world.

A bison in Yellowstone

Approaching Old Faithful Inn

My room on the second floor came with two double beds, a small table/breakfast nook and 1960-ish feeling bathroom sporting some colorful animal tiles.

Some suites are available, but don't expect a TV or posh accommodations, just very comfortable ones. If you are lucky enough to stay in a National Park Lodge, you ought to bathe in nature and the hotel's relaxed and historic ambiance. Pretty tough to beat that fact the I could actually watch Old Faithful Geyser from a window in my room; however, the outdoor patio offered exceptional views.

The main dining is a must and reservations are necessary. The menu offers a variety of healthy choices and Xanterra, the parks commissioner, has taken a firm stand on sustainable practices. A statement on the menu read: Sustainable Food and Our Environmental Commitment You are what you eat. Xanterra believes that this old adage is particularly poignant when that fare is fueling the adventures of visitors to the world's first national park. Consequently, Xanterra has a company-wide goal of ensuring that at least 50% of its total food purchases are sustainable by 2016. To meet this goal, Xanterra focuses on food and beverage items that are: • Produced within 500 miles • From production systems that minimize harm to the environment • Third-party certified or verified (such as Fair Trade, USDA Organic, GMO free,etc) • Vegetarian and/or vegan • Having minimal impact on animal welfare (cage free, free range, no added hormones)

By supporting sustainable cuisine, Xanterra is not only providing highquality, healthy food to our guests, but is helping to support local food systems and drive economic growth.

Xanterra believes that we have a special role as a steward of Yellowstone to protect the environment for future generation which is why we strive to provide Legendary Hospitality with a Softer Footprint.

I applaud their efforts and ate all my meals during my two-day visit in their dining facilities.

The following day I signed-up for the Firehole Basin Adventure: a threehour exploration of some of Yellowstone's geo-thermal wonders that starts at the Inn. The tour utilizes a 1937 yellow wooden touring car, one of eight which Xanterra refurbished at the cost of $237,000 each. The windows are quite costly and delicate. In fact, my guide banned everyone on the tour from closing the doors. He did that himself, so as to not break any of the windows.

While jaunting around the park, the guide explained hot springs and geysers. Yellowstone sits on a huge caldera, one that erupted 640,000 years ago. While the earth's crust is normally 20-30 miles thick, the park's magma rests just 1-7 miles below surface. Superheated water gets pushed up, and rises near the top.

Constriction around the geysers from deposits of silica cause the pressure to build until the water finally shoots out.

Old Faithful, the most famous geyser, erupts around 17 times a day and shoots a stream of water from 80-180 feet high. The next display can be predicted with a 90 percent confidence rate within a 10 minute variation. It's quite a show but there are 250 geysers in the park and over 1,000 thermals. The Painted Pots area was particularly eerie and fascinating.

The best part of staying at the Inn, however, is being right in the middle of the untamed wilderness. I just had to keep pinching myself. Before I left on my last day, I strolled to a number of hot pools and relished the magic of Yellowstone after an overnight dusting of snow.

Fortunately I packed appropriate attire. Yellowstone's wildlife, diversity and heritage will not disappoint. This National Park is an astonishing gift; see it, treasure it and pass it on.

All photos courtesy of Debi Lander.

Disclosure: I rented a car at personal expense for the drive to and from Yellowstone from Boise, Idaho. Many thanks to Xanterra Resorts who provided lodging and the complimentary Firehole Basin tour.

Xanterra Parks & Resorts 866 439-7375.

New Zealand: Wellington and Beyond

By Lillian Africano

While I can’t prove this statistically, I’ve read that a trip to New Zealand is high on many bucket lists. And so it should be.

First you have its capital city, Wellington, which Lonely Planet called the coolest little capital in the world. And so it is.

Located on the southernmost part of New Zealand’s North Island, Wellington is a cultural hub with impressive museums, a lively music scene and, according to some estimates, more cafes and bars and restaurants per capita than New York City, the place where I lived most of my adult life. Yet during my visit, I felt that New Zealand’s second-most populous city still had a strong connection with Nature -- and that all those bars and restaurants had not been created at her expense. Unlike New York City, where small and precious oases of green live among towers of steel and granite, Wellington has lots of inviting green space where locals and travelers alike can refresh body and soul. With all that Wellington has to offer, it’s hard to believe that not so long ago, Wellington was the country’s “flyover city,” seen only from the air by tourists jetting between the thermal pools of the north and the mountains of the south.

The first must-see here is New Zealand’s national museum, Te Papa Tongarewa, which means “container of treasures.” As admission is free to this serene and spiritual place, and as it is open every single day of the year (10 a.m.− 6 p.m. and 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. on Thursdays), it’s possible to visit more than once to browse its collection of some 200,000 items. A series of guided tours is available, as well as an audio guide and a visitor booklet.

The History Collection alone is a treasure trove of 25,000 items, including over 7,000 pieces of dress and textiles, the oldest dating back to the sixteenth century.

For me, visits to any museum end in the museum shop, where I look for gifts and souvenirs that aren’t the same as those found in museum shops everywhere. Here, I found books on Captain Cook’s explorations, on New Zealand’s Maori culture, on the country’s birds; handmade Maori jewelry; exceptionally beautifully cards (more suitable for framing than for mailing); glass pieces; bone carving – and plenty of books for children about the country and its culture.

On the ground floor, in the heart of the museum is a light and airy family-friendly café that offers an all-day menu and also serves espresso, wines and beers. This very userfriendly museum also has free Wi-Fi hotspots; access and help for people with disabilities and rooms for parents with young children.

As New Zealand is the land of Middle Earth and home of the hobbits, fans of the Lord of the Rings trilogy make a point of visiting the Weta Cave, a mini-museum, mini-theater and shop in Miramar, Wellington. Described as “an emporium of all things wild and The other exhibits range from objects collected by Captain Cook, including his Hawai’an feather cloak) to costumes worn by Xena, Warrior Princess, as well as a Xena doll. (Xena first appeared as a character on Hercules: The Legendary Journeys' – and rates so well that she was given her own show, which was made in New Zealand between 1995 and 2001.

American Secretary of State Madeleine Allbright named Xena as a role model.)

There’s a New Zealand Post archive, a valuable collection of around 20,000 stamps and related material; historical weapons, coins and medals; ceramics from the old world and from modern New Zealand; a furniture collection of around 250 items; precious metalwork; and rare books, photographs, and papers.

For kids, the Colossal Squid exhibit is a big draw, featuring as it does the largest known specimen of its kind, weighing over 1,000 pounds when caught. The exhibit featuring the world of the Māori, the first settlers, offers insight into this vital culture, while the Awesome Forces exhibition demonstrates how the forces of Nature – earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and the weather – played a part in shaping New Zealand.

wonderful,” the Cave is part of the Weta Workshop, best known, not only for work on the Lord of the Rings trilogy, but also on King Kong, The Chronicles of Narnia, Avatar and The Adventures of Tintin.

Maori Art

Guides explain the natural history that has lead to exquisite limestone formations in the Waitomo Caves.

Courtesy of Tourism Holdings.

The Weta Cave screens a behind-the-

There’s more Nature on view at the Botanic

In the Lambton Quay commercial

scenes look at Weta and interviews with

Garden, best reached by a cable-car ride

district, in the heart of Wellington’s

Weta co-founders Peter Jackson, Richard

(panoramic city views are a bonus). The

Golden Shopping Mile, is the city’s

Taylor, Tania Rodger and Jamie Selkirk. In

garden encompasses almost 62 acres of

iconic department store, Kirkcaldie &

the mini-museum are characters, props and

varied landscape, protected native forest,

Stains (think Macy’s in New York

displays from the movies and stories about

conifers, specialized plant collects and

City!). I was welcomed by a friendly

how they were created. For sale in the shop

colourful floral displays. It is classified as a

Commissionaire at the front door and

are limited edition hand-crafted sculptures by

Garden of National Significance by the

ushered inside, where browsing as well

the Weta artists; Weta-designed clothing,

Royal New Zealand Institute of Horticulture

as shopping is still relaxed and civilized.

jewelry and souvenirs; Doctor Grordbort’s

and is a Historic Places Trust Heritage Area.

Rayguns and books, DVDs, magazines,

Admission here is also free.

Courtenay Place, a virtual Restaurant Row, offers all sorts of ethnic

posters and art from the world of movies.

Wellington is a great walking city. Along

flavors: Chinese, French, Italian, Indian

The company is named after the Weta, a

lively Cuba Street, there are restaurants,

– and more. Café culture is strong

cricket-like insect described as “a very cool,

bars and boutiques selling trendy fashions.

throughout the city, so it’s possible to

prickly little monster, unique to New

The Trawling Sea Market serves what may

sample the locally roasted coffee and

Zealand.” (The Māori name for the giant

be the best fresh-from-the-sea fish and chips

compare it with Starbucks (several

species is Wetapunga or “the god of the ugly

(the fish would be terakihi, not cod or

locations in the city).

things.”) The Cave is open 7 days a week,

haddock).

from 9 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.; admission is free.

For some good photo ops, there are

New Zealand’s “top chef,” the one

with Garlic and Sherry Wine Vinegar;

Parliament House, known as The

government officials turn to when

Sautéed Springfield Greens,

Beehive (when you see it, the reason

someone important visits the country.

Handpicked Springfield Garden Salad with Walnut Dressing; New Zealand

for the name will become obvious) and the Mount Victoria Lookout, which

In 2010, Ruth “tutored” Prince William

Artisan Cheeses with Homemade

offers a spectacular city panorama.

and New Zealand’s Prime Minister at a

Crackers and Fig, Orange and Almond

Premier House barbecue. She also

Roll. And for dessert – yes, everyone

On a balmy day, a walk along the

catered the premieres of The Lovely

had dessert – it was Manuka Honey

waterfront provides pretty views and

Bones, Lord of the Rings, Return of the

Ice Cream and Long-stemmed

great people-watching; on the

King and King Kong (all filmed in New

Strawberries.

weekend, the markets sell everything

Zealand).

The wines that accompanied our meal:

from boutique wine and handmade When I arrived, with a group of travel

Palliser Estate Martinborough Methode

writers, at Springfield, Pretty’s home,

Traditionelle 2007; Ned Marlborough

And, of course there is plenty of

tea and espresso and beauty cake

Pinot Gris 2009; Elephant Hill Hawke’s

glorious food (and wine) to sample in

awaited. We toured the sustainable

Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2010; Neudorf

Wellington. One of the things I loved

garden, where Ruth sources many of

Nelson Chardonnay 2010 and Ata

about dining here, whether at a simple

her ingredients -- and then we got to

Rangi Crimson Martinborough Pinot

café on Courtenay Place or a

work: making wood-fired pizzas in the

Noir 2009. What was especially

distinguished restaurant on the

garden. I love making pizzas at home,

appealing about all these wines was

waterfront, is that the food is what

but here, it was especially easy as

that they were reasonably priced and

food should be – uncontaminated and

Ruth’s helpers had prepared the dough

generally available in the United

un-tampered with. Read a label and

(which had risen) and sliced and diced

States.

you won’t find any un-pronounceable

the “fixings.” With advice from Ruth’s

chemicals or additives.

staff, everyone made a personal pizza,

We left Springfield with all the recipes

and by the time they went into the

for the dishes we’d consumed and a

Among the special dining venues is

oven, we were all hungry. Tasting was

copy of Ruth Pretty’s cookbook. And

Logan Brown, which offers

the fun part; my pie wasn’t bad, but it

when it was time to leave New

sophisticated cuisine, a good wine list

couldn’t match those produced by my

Zealand, I checked off one more item

and excellent service in a very pretty

favorite pizzerias in New York or at the

on my bucket list and cherished my

European-style setting with Corinthian

Jersey Shore.

new treasure trove of memories.

chocolate to jewelry and other crafts.

columns and an ornate domed ceiling.

Martin Bosley’s was my favorite; the

Pizza was only the first part of our food

fresh fish, sourced from clean waters is

adventure. In the beautiful garden

prepared simply, and the delicate

setting, we were served a multi-course

sauces enhance rather than mask the

sit-down dinner which started with

flavors. Desserts, especially those

mouthwatering Barbecued Scampi

made with chocolate, are memorable.

Salad with Lemon Thyme Dressing and

For outstanding Asian food, the French

went on – and on, to include: West

culinary team at Hippopotamus (at the

Coast Whitebait fritters, Pan-fried Paua

Museum Hotel) shines.

with Lemon; Herbed Mussels with Soused Red Onions; Barbecued

For my best culinary adventure, I

Flatbread; Barbecued Butterflied Leg of

traveled northwest of Wellington, to

Lamb with Rosemary and Beetroot

Ruth Pretty’s home and cooking school

Balsamic Sauce, Cucumber and

on the Kapiti Coast. Ruth Pretty is

Yoghurt Salad; Spanish-style Pepper

Ruth Anne.

Travel Information: To travel to Wellington, my choice would be Premium Economy on Air New Zealand’s Boeing 777300ER, the airline’s flagship. These luxurious seats have a hard shell that doesn’t recline — saving you from smashed knees courtesy of the seat in front of you. The recline happens in the softer part of the seat, while the accompanying beanbag on the floor creates a comfy cushion for fully-extended legs.

The shell shields you from your neighbor, providing a welcome measure of privacy if you’re traveling alone.

For couples, the dual seats create a kind of love-seat, for dining and chatting. The personal entertainment center is state-of-the-art, with movies, music, TV, etc. — and a cradle for your iPod. Headphones are like those distributed in Business or First Class; blankets and pillows are cozy and invite sleep. The food, accompanied by New Zealand wines, is as good or better than anything I’ve had when flying domestic Business Class. The final luxury: Air New Zealand provides a concierge throughout the plane (even in regular economy), whose job it is to answer questions and provide those little services that ease the strain of long-distance travel.

There is an abundance of hotels in Wellington. My favorite is the Museum Hotel (http://www.museumhotel.co.nz/), a contemporary boutique property with stylishly decorated rooms featuring all modern amenities, some overlooking picturesque Wellington Harbor. The residence section of the property has apartments with kitchenettes and laundry facilities. As befits its name, the hotel houses an exceptional art collection. To round out the options for a comfortable stay, there is an indoor pool (and sauna), a fitness center and a day spa/salon. The Museum’s premier restaurant, Hippopotamus, serves lovingly prepared French cuisine and an artistically presented high tea. The best part: it’s next to the Te Papa Tongarewa museum.

The Rotorua region also offers a unique adventure: riding a raft down Tutea Falls on the Kaituna River. This is the highest commercially-rafted waterfall in the world – and the sevenmeter drop (23-feet) elicits screams from young and old alike.

(Check out You Tube videos for a vicarious thrill.) Behind the waterfall are the caves used by the Maori to hide women and children in time of war.

Another exciting falls adventure can be found at one of the most visited natural attractions on North Island: the Huka Falls on the Waikato River. This is a group of waterfalls that drain Lake Taupo, with a volume that often approaches 220,000 liters (over 58,000 gallons) a second. Hukafalls Jet takes thrillseekers within a few meters of the base of the falls in their jetboats.

Just to the south of Rotorua is another of North Island’s “hot” (a piping 74°C or 165°F) geothermal attractions, the Waiotapu (Wai-O-Tapu) Champagne Pool. This unique natural landscape, perhaps the most colorful and diverse in New Zealand, has been created by volcanic activity over thousands of years.

The bright orange rim of the pool contains a mixture of elements, including silver, gold and mercury. The bubbles that fizz to the surface of the pool, which gave the pool its name, are carbon dioxide. As there are clearly defined tracks around the rim, it’s possible to explore the area through a series of walks, with each walk presenting a different vista.

For information on Wellington, consult http://www.newzealand.com/us/ and http://www.wellingtonnz.com/visitor_information --and a knowledgeable travel agent.

A very different kind of landscape is found in Hawke’s Bay, located on the east coast of New Zealand’s North Island.

Steeped in history, this region is the country’s second largest wine-growing region and one of its oldest. Blessed with plenty of sun and a temperate climate, it is the leading wine and food tourism destination. Many of New Zealand’s best wineries are here and within easy reach of visitors. Chardonnay is the most widely planted grape variety, but the long ripening season makes possible such later-ripening red grape varieties as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Syrah.

Beyond Wellington…

Since travel to New Zealand is so timeconsuming (especially from the East Coast), many visitors rent a car (or fly) to some of the country’s many outstanding scenic areas for a taste of adventure travel or simply to photograph places unique to this part of the world.

Sun and sand are the attractions of the Northland Beaches.

Some offer world-class surf, others are great all-tide swimming beaches that attract young families. Still others are so long that it’s possible to walk great stretches without seeing another person. These quiet beaches are ideal for romantic alfresco dining. Provisions can be purchased at roadside stalls, the wine at one of the vineyards.

Rotorua is one such unique place. This city in the northern part of North Island sits squarely on the Pacific Rim of Fire, where you can see the powerful forces of Nature that created New Zealand. It has one of the world’s liveliest fields of geothermal activity, evidenced by boiling mud pools, hot springs and shooting geysers.

All photography by Lillian Africano except where noted.

The colors and shapes seen in the photograph of Waimangu’s volcanic terraces are real. They emerged in 1886 when the Rotorua region was shaken by the eruption of Mt Tarawera. The thermal valley is an otherworldly landscape, with eerie steam-filled craters, blue-green lakes, pristine native bush and rare wildlife.

Lillian Africano Has Changed With the Market and Stays on Top

By Maralyn D. Hill Lillian Africano Has Changed With the Market and Stays on Top

In 2006, I was fortunate to meet Lillian Africano. At that time, she was President of

MDH: Tell us about your background?

the International Food Wine & Travel

LA: I've been a writer/editor for more years than I can remember. I've written

Writers Association, and Lillian went on to

16 books including three best-selling mass market novels under a pseudonym

be President of the Society of American

and several guidebooks. And I've ghosted a number of successful books, both

Travel Writers. In addition, she has been an active member of other prestigious writing organizations. Her experience is impressive. Lillian has navigated the

fiction and non-fiction. More recently I've been an active blogger, which is kind of fun because online work appears instantly.

MDH: How did you discover your love for travel and food?

LA: Even though we weren't well off, my parents loved to travel, so I learned

transition from newsroom to the virtual

very early that travel was a good thing. My parents were also terrific home

office and from typewriters to computers.

cooks, so I learned about good food from them as well.

For me, she has been a mentor. My focus had been business writing and incentive

MDH: Are you more passionate about writing or photography?

programs, but reading Lillian's work helped

Why?

me bring stories to life. She can tell a story

LA: I love writing; photography is a necessity.

so you feel like you are experiencing and enjoying it with her.

MDH: The business of luxury is always changing. What are your thoughts on this? What do you enjoy about it? Where do you see it going?

LA: I think the business of luxury is going to grow more rapidly than ever. Regardless of the state of the economy, there will always be people who want the best of everything and can afford to buy it.

MDH: If you were stranded on an island, name one person and three items you would bring.

LA: My daughter would be the companion I'd choose. I'd bring the biggest notebook I could find, a handful of pens/pencils and a water purifier.

Lillian Africano

MDH: What is your writing process?

LA: I just sit at the computer and start writing. Many years ago, I would labor mentally over every single sentence before I started typing. Then I attended a workshop where the speaker said there was nothing worse than a blank screen. Just get it down any old way, he said, and you can polish it up later. So that's how I work.

MDH: When you get the chance to pick your travel destination, where do you go?

LA: Italy -- anywhere, but Tuscany is a favorite -- and France.

MDH: If you could be anyone else, who would it be?

LA: That's a scary question because I can't imagine living in someone else's skin.

MDH: What motivates you to be a luxury journalist?

LA: I love luxury travel. Who wouldn't? I love writing about luxury hotels, luxury cruises and fabulous restaurants.

MDH: What is one of your favorite experiences while traveling?

LA: A few years ago, I traveled to Florence and Rome, tasting (and writing about) good food everywhere I went -mouthwatering cheeses, delectable gelato and wonderful examples of Slow Food. (I also met the leaders of Italy's Slow Food movement.) That was one of my more memorable experiences.

MDH: Do you have a favorite dish or chef?

LA: I have eaten a lot of truly sublime food. Thomas Keller is my favorite chef. But when I'm at home, my favorite dish is a really good pizza.

MDH: How do you enjoy spending your free time?

Hobbies?

LA: In the summer, I head for the beach after work. My hobby, if you can call it that, is writing for my own pleasure instead of for work.

MDH: If we came to your hometown in New Jersey, what would we do? Tell us about your favorite places.

LA: If you came to the area where I live now -- the Jersey Shore -- you would definitely go to the beach. After a day of sun and sand, you'd head out for some good Jersey Shore food, either seafood at Ollie Klein's in Belmar or my favorite pizza at Federici's in Freehold (Bruce's favorite, too). And if you felt like playing for a couple of hours, there's always the boardwalk in Asbury Park.

MDH: What are three necessities you won't travel without?

LA: My netbook, my medicine baggie and my iPhone.

MDH: What does Luxe Beat Magazine mean to you?

LA: I think Luxe Beat is a wonderful showcase for good writing.

Thank you Lillian. You can learn more about Lillian at http://www.lillianafricano.com. I encourage you to check it out, as it showcases her blog, articles, columns, sites, magazines and a wealth of other information.

The summer before the 1960 election. AP Photo, August 7, 1960.

Book Excerpt

Victura: The Kennedys, a Sailboat, and the Sea

By James W. Graham

Chapter 1: Metaphor for Life

T

he day before he died President John F. Kennedy and his wife, Jacqueline, arrived at the Rice Hotel in

Houston, Texas, taking a room freshly remodeled for their short stay. They had three and a half hours to rest and dine together before heading out for two evening appearances and the day’s end.

Jack, sitting in a rocking chair, wearing just his shorts, worked on a speech and doodled on a sheet of hotel notepaper.

Later, their public obligations satisfied, they retired to another hotel closer to the next day’s events.

Jacqueline saw Jack, in his pajamas, kneel by his bed to say a prayer. She told a friend a few weeks later, “It was just like a little childish mannerism, I suppose, like brushing your teeth or some- thing.

But I thought that was so sweet. It used to amuse me so, standing there.” She compared his religious rituals to “superstition.” She wasn’t sure he was a true believer, “but if it was that way, he

White House meetings or while on the phone.

wanted to have that on his side.”

Sometimes, he put a gaff rig on the mast, like the one on the Victura. Somewhere in their minds,

The next morning, with the president and first lady

throughout their lives, Jack and his brothers and

in Dallas for their motorcade’s nightmarish turn

sisters were always at sea. Sailing influenced how

past the book depository, the Rice Hotel

they thought, how they competed, the content of

housecleaning staff found the doodle the president

public speeches, how as a family they celebrated

had left in his room. It was a simple pencil drawing

happy events or managed grief, how they grew

of a little sailboat, beating through the waves.

close to one another.

Jack Kennedy often drew such sailboats during

Of the nine children of Joseph and Rose Kennedy,

LUXE BEAT MAGAZINE • APRIL 2014

05

Robert F. Kennedy steers Victura with plenty of helpers. No youngster was turned away, no matter the boat's crew capacity. AP Photo/Bob Schutz, July 30, 1961.

the ones most influenced by and enamored with sailing

still doing the same eighty years after they first went for a

were Jack; his older brother, Joe; and their younger

sail on Victura.

siblings, Ted, Eunice, and Robert. When they were young, sailing was a topic of ongoing earnest

When Robert’s young wife, Ethel, joined the family, she

discussion, sometimes led by their father.

perfectly blended in, not least because she brought her own love of sailing. Jacque- line, enamored less with the

They would constantly ask one another, What made us

races and more with sailing’s beauty, wrote poetry about

lose a race? What gear needed replacing? At what

and drew pictures of sailboats years before she met Jack.

cost? What sailing instructors should we hire? What

Whatever the lofty position a Kennedy held, helicopters,

kind of sails? How do we launch the spinnaker faster?

airplanes, and motorcades all eventually pointed back to

Who can we get to crew? How fast the wind and how

Hyannis Port in time for sailing races.

high the waves?

Once together at sea the Kennedys riveted their attention As they grew older and moved into independent lives,

on the race or, if just cruising, spent hours in conversation

they always came back to sailing, coordinating return

while watching sunsets; worrying over storm clouds; taking

trips to their seaside Cape Cod home, sometimes

drenching waves over the gunwale; shivering, almost

arranging their lives around regattas, making time for a

hypothermic; holding soggy sandwiches pulled from the

sail every day. Their children and grandchildren were

cooler.

88 MARCH 2014 •LUXE BEAT MAGAZINE

Once they became parents they used sailing to connect with their children…

Older Kennedys taught younger ones. They grounded

once sprung a leak and started sinking beneath Ted’s

their boat on sandbars, at least once crashing into a

aging and none-too-small size, as the senator resignedly

buoy. They thought nothing of jumping into the water if

watched boats in the race pass him by until he could get

necessary to lighten the load and speed the boat. They

a tow. After they gave Victura to a museum, they bought

yelled when mistakes were made, punched one another

a new Wianno Senior, called it Victura too and sail it to

even, laughed about it afterward. The stronger the Cape

this day.

winds, the whiter the whitecaps, the better. They took friends out who became lifelong pals after passing tests

Now, when a Kennedy dies and his or her loved ones

of seaworthiness or camaraderie.

stand to speak words of consolation, they often turn to the imagery of sailing and to their stories of Victura. At

Once they became parents they used sailing to connect

Ted’s death in 2009, four eulogists told stories of being

with their children, including nephews and nieces whose fathers were lost. They learned seamanship and survival

with him on Victura. Less than two years later, when

skills, which they swear saved Jack’s life in World War II.

Ted’s daughter, Kara, died of cancer at age fifty-one, her

Sailing, they said, gave their lives perspective and helped

brother Patrick said, “Dad now has his first mate, his

them explore how to cope with the complexity that

crew with him, as they set sail,” and quoted Eugene

comes with being a Kennedy—the privileges, the

O’Neill, “I dissolved in the sea, became white sails and

attention, and the “buzz saws of life.” They sailed at night

flying spray, became beauty and rhythm, became

too, quietly taking in the infinite stars, distance, space,

moonlight and the ship and the high dim-starred sky!”

and horizon and said it gave them insights into life’s mysteries. “Sailing, for me, has always been a metaphor

Jack did not know his stay at the Rice Hotel was his last

for life,” wrote Ted in his memoir, True Compass, written

day on earth, but his thoughts went back to the Cape

eighty years after the family first summered in Hyannis

and the sea that night because that is where Kennedy

Port.

minds always drift. All through his life Jack was sick with one illness or another, but sailing freed him, filled his

The family had many sailboats, but the favorite was

lungs, tanned his skin when it was ashen or yellow,

Victura. They kept it the longest and sailed it most, over

separated him from worries ashore, and gave him

almost fifty years. It was wooden and modest in size,

seclusion with family and friends.

twenty-five feet in length, spare of accommodation, and gaff rigged, a sail configuration thought quaint today even

Robert, a less accomplished sailor who married young

though folks still say the shorter mast height prevents a

and had less time for racing, still loved taking his children

knockdown in a gale. About two hundred one-design

out on the water. Before he died at forty-two, after

Wianno Seniors identical to Victura have been built for

fathering eleven children, he bought a “sister boat” to

families like the Kennedys who summer or live on Cape

Victura and called it Resolute. For years following

Cod’s South Shore. Thus they fairly compete on boats of

Robert’s death, when the weather was warm enough,

equal specifications in races around Nantucket Sound.

and even when it was not, his surviving family sailed Resolute almost every day. Brothers, sisters, and

That Victura survived so long, a small boat in such big

nephews of Jack bought Wianno Seniors, so Victura and

seas, is surprising itself. Acquired in 1932, struck by

Resolute begat Headstart, another Victura, and

lightning in 1936, dragged onto the beach by war-injured

Ptarmigan. These begat Santa Maria and Dingle.

Jack during a hurricane in 1944, and nearly lost in a 2003 harbor fire that took twenty other sailboats like it, Victura

Ted, perhaps the most dedicated—some might say

89 MARCH 2014 •LUXE BEAT MAGAZINE

obsessive—sailor, lived a long life of ups and downs, the

events and accidents of fate. All of these combined to

opposite of the short lives of Jack and Robert. They rose

deeply influence the lives of a few extraordinary people

together on a steady and uninterrupted path to the White

who, more than most, helped define America in the

House, but Ted lived almost as long as the other two

second half of the twentieth century. From these

combined, beaten down by tragedies, some fated, some

circumstances grew the Kennedys and all they became.

self-inflicted. Sailing reminded Ted to keep plowing

Always integral to it all was a simple, small sailboat.

onward, no matter the wind or current or competition.

Victura.

The younger Kennedys picked up on that.

The daughters of Joe and Rose Kennedy had less family pressure to achieve political success, for theirs was an era of male primogeniture, but Eunice grew up to be as forceful and effective a leader of social change in

About the Author

America as her brothers. Perhaps not so coincidentally

James W. Graham, a communications and public

she was also among the most accomplished sailors.

affairs professional for a major-brand retailer, was a senior adviser to former Illinois Governor Jim Edgar

Over the years the images of the Kennedys at sea

and the Illinois House of Representatives. He races

defined the family brand and gave birth to the Kennedy

and cruises his sailboat Venturous out of Wilmette

myth. Kennedys under sail were the picture of

Harbor, north of Chicago. To learn more go to:

adventurousness, wholesomeness, vigor, and family.

www.thevictura.com.

They commanded the elements and the political world.

Jack Kennedy’s navy experience in World War II became an epic tale of seafaring heroism, retold throughout his political career. A 1953 Life cover photo of Jack and Jacqueline on the bow of Victura, along with their larger storyline, presented them as beautiful, privileged, sophisticated, glamorous, and destined for something great. Media forms like television were fast evolving and multiplying, their effects just being understood, and Jack and Jackie were well cast for the new era.

As Robert and Ted grew older and entered the picture as politicians themselves, they had children who took to the sea as had their parents. The image of the Kennedys at sea became affixed in public consciousness for the rest of the twentieth century and into the next.

The story of Victura, more than the tale of a small

James W. Graham

sailboat, is a story of a steeled family and uncommon upbringing in a particular time and place, under specific circumstances, some created with deliberateness by parents who had the means, some shaped by world

89 MARCH 2014 •LUXE BEAT MAGAZINE

www.BroadsAbroad.net

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