LuxeGetaways Spring 2017

LUXE GETAWAYS SPRING

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EXTREME ADVENTURE TRAVEL EXPERIENCES A FAMILY’S GUIDE TO EXPERIENCING

Singapore

10 TOP

TRAVEL EXPERIENCES, PACKAGES & EVENTS

Plus

UNFORGETTABLE BARGE CRUISES IN FRANCE AND HOLLAND WITH ABERCROMBIE & KENT

LUXEGETAWAYS.COM

TRAVEL IN STYLE 2017 Destination Guide

Celebrate Canada FAVORITE GOLF RESORT GETAWAYS IN THE

UNITED STATES An Insider’s Guide to

Miami A WINE LOVERS GETAWAY TO

BORDEAUX

Editor’s Note

LUXE GETAWAYS TRAVEL IN STYLE

VOLUM E 02 , I S S U E 01 P UB L I S H E R Edward Powers E DITOR I N CH I E F Damon M. Banks T R AV E L E DITOR Priscilla Pilon L I F E S T Y L E E DITOR Michelle M. Winner A S S I S TA NT E DITOR Shelbie Landry A RT DI R E CTOR Vlad Solovetski CR E AT I V E DI R E CTO R Taras Kravtchouk P H OTO E D ITOR Greg Powers SALES & MARKETING Ryan Clark E D ITO R -I N -C HI E F

Damon M. Banks After the very successful launch of the premier issue of LuxeGetaways Magazine in the fall, I will be the first to admit that there was a bit of pressure on me and our entire team of editors, writers and designers to continue the level of publishing that we established with that first issue. Taking the time to listen to feedback while connecting with our readers and industry partners, this Spring Issue certainly delivers on all levels. I sincerely hope that you enjoy reading through this diverse collection of travel, lifestyle and hospitality features, but also walk away feeling inspired and empowered to begin planning your own amazing getaway – whether it be a staycation to enjoy being pampered at a local hotel, or an extravagant international journey to a completely new destination.

Spring is an exciting time for travel, and we make a point of including a collection of travel opportunities to inspire our broad spectrum of readers – from the experienced Baby Boomers to the influential Millennials. Imagine a customized barge cruise with your family in France, or exploring the family-friendly destination of Singapore. Maybe you would rather go solo and take advantage of the spa and wellness programs with Six Senses. Or you are an adrenaline junky looking to live life on the edge with extreme adventure travel experiences.

Perhaps discovering the LGBT-friendly destinations of Dallas, Berlin and Stockholm is more your speed. Regardless of your travel desires, we have pulled together a multitude of travel experiences for you to explore on any budget. This season, we encourage you to venture out of your comfort zone and begin planning your very own luxe getaways.

Safe travels to all of you, and thank you for continuing to be such an important part of the LuxeGetaways Magazine journey – stay connected with us on the website too, where you can flip through the quarterly magazine, and read our ongoing posts about the best of the travel, lifestyle and hospitality industries.

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W E B S IT E DE V E LOP M ENT Geoffrey Murie CONT R I B UT I N G W R ITER S Tricia Conover, Katie Dillon, Adam Groffman, Debbi K. Kickham, Matt Long, Cacinda Maloney, Mark Orwoll, Janice Tober, Andrew Villagomez E DITOR I A L I NT E R N Abigail Dorman

COM M E NTS : contact@LuxeGetaways.com A DV E RT I S I N G I N Q UI R IES: advertising@LuxeGetaways.com P R E S S I N Q UI R I E S: press@LuxeGetaways.com E DITOR I A L I N Q UI R I ES: editor@LuxeGetaways.com LuxeGetaways Magazine has not independently tested all services and products advertised herein and have verified no claims made by its advertisers regarding services and products. LuxeGetaways Magazine makes no warranties or representations and assumes no liability for any claims regarding such services or products.

Copyright 2017 by Destination World Media, LLC. All rights reserved.

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Contents

16 SPECIAL

Celebrate Canada It is a great time to visit Canada as they celebrate the country’s 150th anniversary, and we have your 2017 guide.

127 A DVE NTUR E

The Best of Australia with One&Only Resorts We take an inside look at these exceptional Australian getaways, where you can pause and connect with life.

43 HO M E & DESI GN

The Best Combination of Resort & Residential Living Luxury resort amenities with an exclusive residential community environment provide residents with the best of both worlds.

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78

FEATUR E

S P ORTI N G E VE NT

A Weekend in Geneva

America’s Cup 2017 Sails into Bermuda in May

Our guide to Geneva that showcases both the high-end luxury and fashionably affordable adventures that makes this city so desirable.

The eyes of the world will be fixed on Bermuda this May as the best sailors compete for this prestigious trophy.

Departments

102 I NTE RV I EW

The Art of Hospitality: Jordan Nova of Spago, Beverly Hills Mastering the sophisticated style of hospitality, Jordan talks with us about the world of hospitality and the Los Angeles hotspots.

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S PA & W EL L N E S S

Satisfying the Senses Through Travel with Six Senses

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C UL I N A RY

Savoring The Many Tastes of Athens

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A N I N S I D ER ’S G UI D E

Miami

62

GE TAWAYS

Unforgettable Barge Cruises with Abercrombie & Kent

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LG BT TR AVEL

Top 3 LGBT-Friendly Travel Destinations This Season

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FA MI LY T R AVE L

A Family’s Guide to Experiencing Singapore

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C OU P L ES TR AVE L

The Ultimate Romantic Getaways

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87

GE TAWAYS

Évora Forever

A DVE NTUR E TR AVEL

10 Extreme Adventure Travel Experiences

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S O LO TR AVEL

Community Based Luxury in Newfoundland

Mark Orwall explores one of Portugal’s most historic towns, which is an easy day trip from Lisbon.

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Contributing Writers VO LU M E 0 2 , I SSUE 0 1

Katie Dillon Life as an expat in London and Hong Kong is responsible for Katie’s sense of wanderlust. Specializing in luxury family travel, she documents her love of five-star hotels, premium class cabins and kid-friendly destinations on LaJollaMom.com, named for the seaside community in San Diego she now calls home. Often tapped as a San Diego expert, her work has been seen on USA TODAY, Four Seasons Magazine, NBC San Diego, Money Magazine, Parent’s Magazine and more.

Adam Groffman Adam is a freelance writer, marketer and travel blogger based in Europe, where he covers city trips around the world, expat life, LGBT issues, festivals, and nightlife. His writing has been featured in The Guardian, AFAR, Fodor’s Travel Guides, Vanity Fair, Condé Nast Traveler and numerous online publications. When he is not out exploring the coolest bars and clubs, he is usually enjoying the local arts, cultures and restaurant scenes.

Debbi Kickham As a former Editor of Robb Report Magazine, and author of The Globetrotter’s Get-Gorgeous Guide: Diet and Beauty Secrets of Travel and Beauty Pros, Traveling Executives, and Celebrity Travelers; Debbi is now a freelance writer covering luxury, travel, beauty, spas and cruises. Her features have been published in The Ritz-Carlton Magazine, The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, The Boston Globe, Glamour, InStyle, Cigar Aficionado, US Airways Magazine and more.

Matt Long An experiential luxury traveler at heart, Matt shares his adventures with thousands of readers daily through his award-winning site. As someone who has a bad case of the travel bug, he travels the world in order to share tips on where to go, what to see, and how to experience the best that the world has to offer. His work has been seen on BBC, CNN, Travel Channel, Lonely Planet and more.

Mark Orwoll As the International Editor of Travel + Leisure and Executive Editor/International of the Time Inc. Affluent Media Group (formerly American Express Publishing), Mark oversaw T+L, Departures, and Food & Wine. He has also appeared on TV and radio 600+ times as a recognized travel expert, including NBC’s Today Show, CNBC, ABC, CBS, MSNBC, CNN, and FOX. His current features can be seen in Town & Country, Departures International, Frommer’s, Culture Trip and more.

Janice Tober A former contributing editor for Condé Nast Traveler’s HotelChatter, Janice is now a freelance travel and lifestyle writer, working with a variety of publications and web sites including BravoTV.com, iExplore and TravelPulse – the world’s most popular web site for travel agents. She specializes in hotels, spas, food and wine, cocktails and bars, museums and galleries, architecture and design – anything hip and happening with a hint of luxury.

Andrew Villagomez Andrew is a journalist, photographer and blogger covering travel, men’s fashion, grooming and other lifestyle topics.

His work has appeared in print and online publications, including Travel + Leisure, Condé Nast Traveler, Essential Homme, Delta Sky Magazine, Out, Details and more. He also runs his own style and travel blog, VeeTravels.com, which is a reflection of his work as a journalist, and the behind-the-scenes of his travels.

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Satisfying the Senses Through Travel with Six Senses With so many amazing locations around the globe, we have only started to explore the many opportunities with Six Senses Hotels, Resorts and Spas‌

BY PRISCILLA PILON

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Spa & Wellness Travel Six Senses Memorable journeys are the ones where experiences leave unforgettable marks upon the senses. As travelers, it is life enriching to see something extraordinary with our own eyes; hear untold stories from local characters; feel warm sand between our toes or catch a cold snowflake on our tongues; smell freshly baked bread or a heavenly scented flower; and to taste the freshness of local ripened fruits and veggies. Our sixth sense yearns for adventure, physicality, excitement and balance.

Six Senses Hotels, Resorts and Spas specialize in heightening senses through relaxation, wellness, and exploration in locations that promote a feeling of harmony with host cultures. The brand is committed to the local environments (protecting natural resources) and social sustainability (hiring as many locals as possible).

For some, a voyage to a Six Senses destination is an initiation into wellbeing. For others, it is an opportunity to improve their fitness, or try new things. The integrative programs commence with Fusionetics Screenings designed to provide feedback on personal fitness levels.

Based upon the results, nutrition, sleep, and health suggestions are offered to guests. For instance, Six Senses Samui is on the lush Thai island that offers Yogic Sleep lessons with the goal of improved slumber, and a deep level of relaxation for those whose tests reveal a poor level of rest.

For the many workers who spend most of their days behind a desk yearning for more action while on vacation, the atoll setting of Six Senses Laamu in the southern Maldives provides ample opportunity to delight adrenaline junkies. Surf the famous Yin Yang wave that breaks offshore of the resort, or take a night dive to watch the fish hunt.

Urban dwellers itching to escape to faraway lands, but cannot afford the time (or expense) to fly halfway around the world might prefer to take “staycations” in their region, or nearby cities while enjoying a day spa. Six Senses rue de Castiglione in Paris transports spa goers to Japan via their Hanakasumi ritual using rice powder and cherry blossoms to exfoliate the skin followed by foot acupressure and a heated Shea butter nourishing finale. North Americans will soon rejoice as Six Senses has announced they are opening a destination hotel and spa in New York City in 2019.

It is true that Six Senses is about wellness and relaxation, but balance and pleasure are also parts of living an authentic life too. Wine and foodie enthusiasts flock to Six Senses Douro Valley in Portugal – lured by the breathtaking vine-covered rolling hills, and the proximity to some of the best and oldest wineries in the world. The organic gardens produce exceptional produce adding a truly farm-totable experience like no other.

Whichever sense is strongest (or most important to you) can help determine the direction that you should take for vacation. We have a “sixth sense” that any of the locations and destinations under the Six Senses Hotels, Resorts and Spas umbrella will satisfy them all.

Six Senses Douro Valley – Portugal luxegetaways.info/SixSenses1 Six Senses Samui – Thailand luxegetaways.info/SixSenses2 Six Senses Laamu – Maldives luxegetaways.info/SixSenses3

Photography: Six Senses

Six Senses rue de Castiglione – Paris, France luxegetaways.info/SixSenses4

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Feature Hospitality Profile

BOB THE BARTENDER’S

INSPIRATIONAL SPRING COCKTAIL

CARBONATED AVIATION 2 oz of Cardinal Gin .5 oz of lemon juice .25 oz of Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur .25 oz of Crème de Violet Liqueur Shake/double strain Carbonate Serve in a Nick & Nora glass with a homemade brandied cherry

Step out of your comfort zone for an unforgettable cocktail experience at Punch Room.

STORY BY DA M ON M. B A N K S | P HOTO G R A P HY BY G R E G P OW E R S

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I

first met Bob Peters (known at Bob The Bartender) about a year ago while savoring the Punch Room experience with several friends.

Located on the 15th floor of The Ritz-Carlton Charlotte, Punch Room is simply unexpected. The 37-seat lounge provides guests with an intimate experience, and the personalized attention you would expect while sitting back in one of the oversized couches and wingback chairs. While I was not around at the time of the infamous “speakeasies,” if I had to imagine how a posh and exclusive speakeasy would look, feel, sound and smell, this would be it.

You do not visit Punch Room for a beer or glass of wine (though both are available); you come here to have Bob The Bartender discover what it is that you want to enjoy that particular evening. Upon our first meeting (after he got past the fact that most of my drinks of choice included either a bold red wine or something with an umbrella in it), he further explored my likes and dislikes. The result was some kind of concoction that included espresso, bourbon and smoke; and while it was something that I would never order myself, it was not only delicious, but also a true cocktail experience that I would not soon forget.

With a loyal following, Bob has won numerous awards over the years, and has been featured in a number of national culinary and industry magazines. And let us just say that there is not another bartender in Charlotte with his reputation. He was jetting down to the Cayman Islands just after I saw him again during this visit to be the featured mixologist at the acclaimed Cayman Cookout Food Festival hosted by Eric Ripert, Jose Andres, and Anthony Bourdain.

Having Bob at Punch Room makes the already luxuriously hip hotel that much more of an exclusive featured destination, and just one more reason to visit The Ritz-Carlton Charlotte.

Looking for inspiration when preparing a featured spring cocktail for us at LuxeGetaways, Bob decided that the Carbonated Aviation was a perfect (and delicious) solution. This drink has been a cult favorite since it appeared in “Recipes for Mixed Drinks” by Hugo Ensslin in 1916.

Though there have been slight variations of this drink over the years with some omitting the Crème de Violet Liqueur and others trying to make it their own, we love that Bob added the element of carbonation – creating a refreshing and light cocktail that is full of flavor.

Give it a try this season – cheers!

The Ritz-Carlton Charlotte 201 East Trade Street Charlotte, NC 28202 luxegetaways.info/ritz-nc

Bob Peters bobpeters.net Photo: Justin Driscoll

Punch Room 201 E Trade St. Charlotte, NC 28202 luxegetaways.info/punchroom LUX EG E TAWAYS.C OM

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Digital Edition VOLUM E 0 2 , I SSUE 0 1

Do you have The Luxe Getaways app?

With the LuxeGetaways app, you will have access to the most current issue as well as all previous issues for free.

Search for LuxeGetaways in the following stores and digital platforms:

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Special Feature Canada

CELEBRATE

CANADA

BY AND RE W V IL L AGOM E Z

2017 is a great time to visit Canada to join them as they celebrate the country’s 150th anniversary…

Named the number one travel destination for 2017 by The New York Times and Lonely Planet, Canada is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year. With exciting things happening throughout all its provinces and territories, the country’s sesquicentennial marks the anniversary of the Canadian Confederation, when all of Canada united. Meant to give Canadians the opportunity to get involved in their communities and to celebrate shared values, achievements, the majestic environment, and the country’s place in the world; visitors can also get in on the celebration throughout all of Canada.

One of the biggest draws for tourists this year is that Canada’s 200 national parks and historic sites across the country — including the Banff National Park of Canada (a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Canada's first National Park) — is offering free admission. Summer will be a busy time to visit the national parks, so this spring is a perfect time to visit. To have more time to discover these natural wonders of Canada, you might also want to look into a heli-hiking adventure where you can stay in a lodge in-between days of exploring mountain ridges and meadows while taking advantage of being transported by helicopter.

For a luxe experience, check out the experts at Canada Mountain Holidays with lodges along the Rocky Mountains that showcase the best of British Columbia and Alberta. Along with heli-hiking through breathtaking and off-the-grid scenery with certified guides to see ancient glaciers, alpine lakes and wildflowers; there are also activities for those who prefer an adrenaline rush such as ziplining through the trees, glacier trekking and navigating sky-high cable bridges.

Destination Canada Official Site: luxegetaways.info/canada

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© Can Stock Photo / Ginaellen

Special Feature Canada

On the other side of Canada, in Québec, explore the underrated Mauricie region (which has been attracting local Canadians and Europeans for decades). While late spring and summer is a lovely time to visit for the warm weather, autumn is a magical season with the intense red and gold hues of the seasonal foliage. Camping, kayaking, fishing, biking, black bear watching and countless other activities keep tourists visiting throughout the season, and nothing beats a rustic lakefront stay anytime of the year.

For a cozy experience that is great for families and groups, Pourvoirie du Lac Blanc is a lakeside resort in St-Alexis-des-Monts that has 12 spacious cottages, a country inn, a rustic camp, and an aquatic center with pool, spa, and sauna. For a romantic, luxury escape, the Sacacomie Hotel is nestled in the heart of the forest and overlooks the majestic Sacacomie Lake and its 26-mile coastline.

With so much to offer, we hope that more people will choose to take advantage of this celebratory year to visit Canada. Keep exploring!

Banff National Park of Canada: banffnationalpark.com Canada Mountain Holidays: canadianmountainholidays.com Pourvoirie du Lac Blanc: pourvoirielacblanc.com

Take advantage of this celebratory year to visit Canada

© Can Stock Photo / Mark52

Sacacomie Hotel: sacacomie.com

The Canadian federation consists of ten provinces and three territories. Visit their tourism offices to learn more when planning your Canadian getaway: Alberta: travelalberta.com British Columbia: hellobc.com Manitoba: travelmanitoba.com New Brunswick: tourismnewbrunswick.ca Newfoundland & Labrador: newfoundlandlabrador.com Northwest Territories: spectacularnwt.com Nova Scotia: novascotia.com Nunavut: nunavuttourism.com Ontario: ontariotravel.net Prince Edward Island: tourismpei.com Québec: quebecoriginal.com Saskatchewan: tourismsaskatchewan.com Yukon: travelyukon.com

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Special Feature Canada

MONTRÉAL Speaking of Québec, while all of the provinces and cities are celebrating the country’s anniversary, Montréal is also celebrating the city’s 375th birthday. With both French and English being spoken here (French is the first language of over half the population), the island city boasts an avant-garde lifestyle that is showcased through its cutting-edge design, dining, and culture.

From the top of Mount Royal (the small, 764-foot-tall mountain overlooking the city) to the waterfront area of Old Montréal and its narrow, cobblestone streets; there is always plenty to see and do in Montréal this spring and summer – especially with all of the events and festivals happening each month.

Now through the rest of the year in Old Montréal, travelers can watch Montréal’s past come to life through Cité Mémoire, an immersive multimedia digital experience set amongst the streets and alleyways. A new adventure is waiting each night, starting at dusk, where you can discover 20 nocturnal stories with the help of the project’s app. Renowned for its jazz, the annual Festival International de Jazz de Montréal is back for its 31st edition from June 28 to July 8. More than 3,000 musicians from 30 countries will be playing over 1,000 shows at 15 concert halls and 8 outdoor stages. Into dance music? The outdoor dance party Piknic Électronik Montréal takes place in Jean-Drapeau Park every Sunday from May 22 to October 22. Then this July, the city becomes an open-air theatre for the largest street theatre event in North America, Les Arts de la Rue. Sixty of the best troupes on the planet converge to present their skills, magic, and creativity for the 375th celebrations.

There is never a shortage of things to do and see here!

Photography: Canada Tourism

Fierté Montréal (the annual LGBT Pride event) returns to be the first edition of Canada Pride. Taking place for ten days this year, August 11-20, the nation-wide celebration of Canada’s LGBT movement will celebrate the diverse culture and history of Montréal and Canada for two full weekends of activities similar to WorldPride and EuroPride.

For a central stay, downtown offers the most hotel options. The five-star Hotel Le Crystal offers 131 spacious suites, several wellness amenities (such as the Amerispa, a Swedish sauna, an indoor saltwater pool, and an outdoor hot tub), and the hotel restaurant, Bistro Laurentien La Coupole, serves innovative dishes with locally sourced Québec produce.

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If you are a fan of Fairmont hotels, the Fairmont Queen Elizabeth reopens this June after undergoing a $140 million renovation. Fairmont says that this property includes a brand new design that blends contemporary decor with vintage Montréal, while keeping the historic authenticity of the building, a historic heritage monument. They will also bring on new concepts such as an urban market and a multi-purpose

SPRING 2017 © Can Stock Photo / lunamarina

venue for pop-up shops and more.

While downtown, visit the city’s new observation deck that opened last May, Au Sommet Place Ville Marie, where you can get a 360-degree view from high above it all. Here, just below the observation deck’s two floors is Les Enfants Terribles Brasserie, which serves a modern take on classic Québec cuisine.

Special Feature Canada

AUBERGE SAINT-ANTOINE

Photography: Canada Tourism

Enjoy a look Inside the Auberge Saint-Antoine at Québec City’s Old Port, which was built on one of the area’s richest archaeological sites. The property is made up of three historical buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries, as well as a wharf and battery structure that date back to the end of the 17th century. The result is a truly special hotel experience that caters to guests seeking luxurious 21st century amenities and services, while enjoying the more than 300 years of history that remains alive around every corner. saint-antoine.com

Montréal Tourism: tourisme-montreal.org

Fierté Montréal: fiertemontrealpride.com

Cité Mémoire: luxegetaways.info/citemem

Hotel Le Crystal: hotellecrystal.com

Montreal Intl. Jazz Festival: montrealjazzfest.com

Bistro Laurentien La Coupole: lacoupole.ca

Piknic Électronik Montréal: piknicelectronik.com/montreal

Fairmont Queen Elizabeth: luxegetaways.info/fm-mtl

Jean-Drapeau Park: parcjeandrapeau.com

Au Sommet Place Ville Marie: ausommetpvm.com

Les Arts de la Rue: luxegetaways.info/arts24

Les Enfants Terribles Brasserie: luxegetaways.info/letb LUX EG E TAWAYS.C OM

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Special Feature Canada

Photography: Toronto Tourism

TORONTO As one of the most diverse cities in Canada, Toronto is a melting pot of cultures where over 140 languages are spoken, and over half of the residents are from outside of Canada. As the largest city in Canada, there is a dynamic range of things to experience: Yorkville is perfect for wandering and exploring luxury hotels (make sure to check out the city’s luxury landmark hotel, The Hazelton Hotel, theaters, gourmet restaurants, a prestigious shopping district, and picture-perfect Victorian homes; West Queen West is the city’s home for art

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studios and edgy works; and City Center is the heart of downtown where you find attractions such as The CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada and the revitalized Union Station. Enjoy Broadway-style shows at the Mirvish Productions Theatre, and experience the best nightlife in the Toronto Entertainment District (concentrated around King Street West between University Avenue and Spadina Avenue), or the local Gay Village (known locally as “The Village” – surrounding Church and Wellesley streets).

If you are an interior and architecture enthusiast, the 18th annual edition of Doors Open Toronto is scheduled for May 27-28.

The annual event offers the opportunity to see inside more than 150 architecturally, historically, culturally and socially significant buildings across the city. Then the Toronto Outdoor Art Exhibition is the longest-running, contemporary, open-air juried art show in Canada, takes places July 14-16 in Nathan Phillips Square. Then cool off with a cold beer at the Toronto’s Festival of Beer on July 28-30.

Toronto is one of the most diverse cities in Canada

Photography: Toronto Tourism

For a memorable summer activity, take advantage of the city’s lakeshore of Lake Ontario and do an electric bike tour around the waterfront with Toronto Electric Bike Tours, take a helicopter above downtown Toronto with Toronto Heli Tours, or go on a unique adventure with The Culinary Adventure Company that will have you canoe through the lake and out to the Toronto Islands where you will savor a 5-course gourmet meal at sunset before having a night paddle back to where you started. Stay at the upscale Le Germain Maple Leaf Square for a hotel that is ideally located in the heart of downtown, and walking distance from the waterfront.

Toronto Outdoor Art Exhibition: torontooutdoorart.org

Toronto Tourism: seetorontonow.com

Toronto’s Festival of Beer: beerfestival.ca

The Hazelton Hotel: thehazeltonhotel.com

Toronto Electric Bike Tours: luxegetaways.info/to-bike

Toronto Heli Tours: helitours.ca

The Culinary Adventure Company: culinaryadventureco.com

Doors Open Toronto: luxegetaways.info/to-doors

Le Germain Maple Leaf Square: luxegetaways.info/to-lgmls

Mirvish Productions Theatre: mirvish.com

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Special Feature Canada

VANCOUVER As a classic Pacific Northwest city, Vancouver is a playground for hiking, kayaking, cycling, and other outdoor activities with all of the natural beauty in the city, and the surrounding area. Locals and visitors will agree that the warm months of the spring and summer are ideal to explore the destination. Unlike the east, the summers are not generally muggy or humid; but instead, crisp and clear. Stanley Park is a must for the views; it is a 988-acre (400-hectare) public park that borders the downtown of Vancouver, and is almost completely surrounded by the Vancouver Harbour and English Bay. Enjoy scenic views of the water, mountains, and majestic trees along the famous Seawall. To help capture the magic of Stanley Park, take a guided bike ride with Cycle City Tours for even more details about the biodiversity of the temperate rainforest, the history of the coastal first nations, as well as an abundance of hidden treasures that the park has accumulated over its 125-year history.

Staying in downtown will keep you close to Stanley Park and central Vancouver. For a sense of peace, Coal Harbour is a relaxing part of downtown that is on the water’s edge in the north of the city. The world-class Fairmont Pacific Rim is located here, which features 377 luxurious guest rooms and suites with naturally inspired materials, comfortable furnishings and amazing views of the North Shore Mountains, Stanley Park and the entire neighborhood (Tip: inquire about The Owner’s Suite Collection for an even more amazing experience). When looking for a more active nightlife, head to the West End of downtown. Yaletown is a formerly run-down warehouse district that now has a thriving nightlife scene, and Davie Village is at the heart of the West End. Known for its LGBT community, come here for people watching during the day, and lively clubs, pubs and street life at night. For the best of both worlds, stay at the Opus Vancouver in Yaletown on Davie Street. With a contemporary design and tech-forward amenities, the guest rooms feature vibrant colors, spa-style bathrooms and five lifestyle-inspired décor schemes. Enjoy rustic Northern Italian inspired cuisine (such as handmade pasta and traditional nose-to-tail meat and fish dishes) at the award-winning La Pentola della Quercia inside the hotel.

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Photography: Vancouver Tourism

Special Feature Canada

Known for its seafood and Asian dining, one of Vancouver’s top restaurants to visit is Miku Restaurant, which offers sushi and sustainable seafood dishes in a sophisticated setting – complete with a patio and water views. From its signature Aburi-style sushi (lightly seared and infused with savory sauces), to its tantalizing meats (tenderized by Sumiyaki grilling), and to its desserts (created by a Kyoto-trained pastry chef), enjoy Miku’s innovative menu. Do as the local Vancouverites have done since 2008, have brunch at Café Medina, which is a quaint, bistro-styled restaurant that serves up its signature brand of Mediterranean-inspired cuisine (along with the city’s best Belgian-style waffles).

Vancouver and the surrounding areas are a must-visit this year!

For an escape outside of Vancouver, book some time at the Sonora Resort, a Relais & Chateaux outdoor retreat in the Discovery Islands. After a 50-minute private helicopter ride from Vancouver, arrive in the secluded resort on Sonora Island, where there is an abundance of wildlife. Sonora welcomes guests from May to October for saltwater and freshwater fishing, relaxation and wilderness viewing with guided grizzly bear tours at nearby Orford River offered in partnership with the Homalco First Nation from August to October.

Other Sonora Resort amenities include a tennis court, kayaking, helicopter tours and the Island Currents Spa with five treatment rooms, outdoor hot and cold mineral pools, a fitness facility and a relaxation room. Sonora is also celebrating Canada's 150th with a special travel package that includes an exclusive Canada 150 menu with new executive chef, Lukas Gurtner. With great shopping, amazing views and endless activities, Vancouver and the surrounding areas are a must-visit this year!

Vancouver Tourism: tourismvancouver.com

Cycle City Tours: cyclevancouver.com

Stanley Park: luxegetaways.info/stanley

Yaletown: yaletowninfo.com

Fairmont Pacific Rim: luxegetaways.info/fpr-bc

Davie Village: davievillage.ca

La Pentola della Quercia: lapentola.ca

Miku Restaurant: mikurestaurant.com

Opus Vancouver: vancouver.opushotel.com

Café Medina: medinacafe.com

Homalco First Nation: homalco.com

Sonora Resort: sonoraresort.com

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Special Feature Canada

A New Era at Empress

BY DAMON M. BANKS

Always one of our favorite hotels in Victoria!

Always one of our favorite hotels in Victoria, British Columbia, Fairmont Empress has been going through a major renovation for some time now‌ but this transformation will be completed very soon.

Though the hotel has remained fully operational during the renovation, the official unveiling of Phase Two will surely be impressive when it happens this June. With $55-million invested into this renovation, Q at the Empress is a bold new restaurant and bar; the lobby lounge is more elegant and sophisticated than ever before; Fairmont Gold has been expanded with a terrace that overlooks Victoria’s Inner

Photography: Fairmont Empress

Harbour; an expansive and glamorous Royal Suite was revealed; and 235 lavish guest rooms are already completed.

When Phase Two is completed in June, it will feature a spectacular new lobby, renovated Willow Stream Spa, renewed public spaces, and the remaining 229 guest rooms. We look forward to seeing all of the renovations, but for now, here is a glimpse into the rebirth of Fairmont Empress. fairmont.com/empress-victoria

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Special Feature Canada Are you ready to experience one of the most luxurious train rides you can have in the Canadian Rockies? If the answer is yes, then the Rocky Mountaineer will charm you, and enhance your Canadian getaway. I dreamed about it for years. With my eyes closed, I would sit back and imagine the majestic train rolling in to the station. Hearing the clanging bells that signal the train’s arrival, and the loud rumbling of the massive Rocky Mountaineer Train rolling in, as the train slowly comes into view in front of the massive floor-to-ceiling glass halls of the station. The conductor shouts “all aboard,” and the ceremonial bagpipes begin to play! However, this is not just a far-fetched fantasy, this dream is a real Canadian journey, complete with world-class beauty, unparalleled service and a premier dining experience.

With each turn on the train tracks in the inaccessible regions of the Canadian Rockies, you will have a front row seat of the majestic snow-capped peaks. You will make your way through a rainforest and a desert plateau with gorgeous views of waterfalls, lakes, and old stone bridges. Along the way you will be charmed by heartwarming stories about historical events in the area, courtesy of the fun-loving hosts. You can also feel the breezes of the clean mountain air when you step outside onto the open-air vestibule. The conductor knows to slow down through some of the most stunning photography spots to help you get your shot. This is a train, but it is oh so much more.

As the evening sun begins to cast a golden light on the landscape, you realize that you have arrived to your home away from home for the night – in a luxury hotel that has been arranged by the crew of the Rocky Mountaineer. You only have to depart the train and soon you will find that your luggage has already been delivered to your room! How does it work, you ask? You spend your days on the train (up to 8 hours at a time), but you spend your nights in hotels where the evening’s activities and dinner plans have already been predetermined for you. There is nothing for you to "figure out" as it has all been planned out to perfection. This is truly an unmatched travel experience while in Canada.

THE CHARMING ROCKY MOUNTAINEER OF THE CANADIAN ROCKIES

BY CACINDA MALONEY Riding the Rocky Mountaineer is like stepping back in time to another world, yet with all the comforts of home.

Learn More: www.rockymountaineer.com

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Photography: Rocky Mountaineer

Photography: Hurtigruten

CRUISING CANADA Hurtigruten has two unique options for you to further explore Canada this next season.

These 15-day adventures are onboard one of their newest ships, the MS Spitsbergen, and perfect for travelers in search of the wilder side of Canada.

1. Exploring the Arctic Land of the Caribou (July 10, 2017) Hurtigruten takes explorers back in time to a different world. Travel from Greenland to St. Johns on the eastern coast of Canada, and explore the majestic and historic coastline of Newfoundland and Labrador. Its isolated national parks offer rugged fjords and valleys, a rich wildlife and Inuit communities - natural ingredients of a true and unforgettable getaway.

2. Crossing Baffin Bay from Canada to Greenland (July 24, 2017)

SEE AN ENTIRELY NEW SIDE OF CANADA THIS SEASON

Explore the unspoiled regions on both sides of Baffin Bay. Starting in Newfoundland and Labrador in Canada, explorers will visit extremely remote destinations where guests can see remarkable archaeological remains and gain insight into Viking history. Then travelers will explore Baffin Island, a grand Arctic playground for outdoor enthusiasts before crossing Baffin Bay over to Greenland.

Learn more at hurtigruten.us

BY DAMON M. BANKS As the world joins with Canada to help them celebrate 150 years in 2017, these unique offerings provide travelers with a new perspective of Canada.

om e” fr t Looni in y k M c “Lu nadian a C l a Roy

WALKING CANADA To celebrate the 150-year anniversary of Canada in 2017, Country Walkers is launching an exciting guided walking experience. New Brunswick: Bay of Fundy & Campobello Island connects travelers with a local resident historian, who shares details, myths and tales from Canada’s past 150 years. Beth Johnston will be leading each group through New Brunswick, as she has been for over 30 years. Johnston shares details on the native environment and can point out majestic Bald Eagles, porpoises, seals and sea birds.

Learn more at countrywalkers.com LUX EG E TAWAYS.C OM Photography: Country Walkers

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Culinary Travel Athens

SAVORING THE MANY TASTES OF ATHENS

The story of a culture and country is told in part by the food. In Athens, the traveler wishing to learn its history has only to visit the market stalls, the street vendor's cart, and the venerated shops and restaurants to better understand this fascinating culture.

By Michelle M. Winner

Culture and cuisine come alive in Athens Photography: Tudor Hall

You will need a guide to show you the culinary delicacies, and explain how they are made. Nikos Theodoris and Anna Manias own Greeking.me – an award-winning tour service offering an Athens walking tour designed for food and culture lovers, which is both entertaining and steeped in history. Stories are woven from conquests, philosophers, art and ideologies, which are then wrapped around tasting the food while visiting bakery shops, tavernas, charcuteries, coffee roasters, and feta pie shops. You will visit the famous establishments, as well as the little hole-in-the-wall places during this well-paced, four-hour walk through central Athens.

Greeks love their aperitifs, especially tsipouro which is always accompanied by a nibble of mezedes or snacks. For a most appropriate place to stay (and to sip your tsipouro with a stunning view of the Acropolis), it has to be Hotel Grande Bretagne. She is a majestic hotel in the center of Athens with an old-world charm and impeccable service reminiscent of Paris. After checking in, head up to the Roof Garden Bar for out-of-this-world views of Acropolis. Be sure to ask for the bar supervisor, Spiros Mantzafos, who can further your culinary education by telling you all about tsipouro – including what it represents to the Greeks, and even how it is made.

DID YOU KNOW? Until the mid-1950’s, Greece referred to this type of coffee with its original name: Turkish coffee.

© Can Stock Photo / mitakag

However it was in 1955 that Turkey expelled the Greeks from Istanbul, and the relationship between the two nations became hostile.

After the Turkish invasion of Cyprus in 1974, Greece permanently established “Greek coffee” as the official name.

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Photography: Tudor Hall

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Culinary Travel Athens While George II was the King of Greece, the King George Hotel opened its doors in 1936.

This beautiful boutique hotel is the sister hotel of Hotel Grande Bretagne next door.

And while this is not ancient history, Tudor Hall Restaurant shares a highly awarded wine cellar with the Grande Bretagne, and can come up with some historic vintages for you. Reserve a table in the elegant dining room, or step out to the less formal open patio to “have dinner with the Acropolis” while dining on local delicacies. Head sommelier Evangelos Psofidis will be happy to suggest an excellent Greek wine while sharing the history of the vineyard's region.

His pairings are perfection with Chef de Cuisine Alexandros Koskinas’ creations at Tudor Hall and Executive Chef Sotiris Evangelou’s Grande Bretagne cuisine.

Two other fascinating pieces of the culinary culture in Athens are Bottarga and Pavlovas.

Bottarga is Italian for the Greek word Avgotaraho, which is a paste of Grey Mullet roe and salt that is preserved in a pure beeswax coating. Established in 1856, Trikalinos Bottarga is considered to be the very best. Still

operated by the same family in Athens, it can be found in high-end restaurants all over the world.

I suggest you try it warm on toast rounds with a glass of champagne. It is served in Tudor Hall Restaurant, as well as Michelin-starred chef Lefteris Lazarou’s fabulous seaside restaurant Varoulko in Pireaus.

The origin of the Pavlova is a disputed one – thanks to the Australians and New Zealanders verses the English and Americans, and even the Germans vying for authorship of the first recipe. But none claim it as their own with more vitriol than the Kiwis and Aussies. As the story goes, it was named after the Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova who toured Australia in 1926. In Australia and New Zealand, it is even elevated to national status and served for special holidays.

A great example is Effie Gialousi, a well-admired Athens chef who has opened her shop, Pavlova (Empedokleous 33, Athina 116 35). She is famous for bringing these puffy, light “cakes” of sugar and egg white filled with whipped cream flavored with lemon, chocolate or topped with strawberries, into the realm of the gourmet. Light as a cloud, they are divine.

Pop into her shop to taste for yourself.

Greeking.me greeking.me

As you gain a deeper appreciation of Athens, you soon learn that there is never a shortage of food and culture!

Hotel Grande Bretagne Vasileos Georgiou A 1, Athina 105 64 grandebretagne.gr King George Hotel Vasileos Georgiou A 3, Athina 105 64 kinggeorgeathens.com

Photography: GB Roof Garden

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A DVERTORI A L

A DVERTORI A L

Getaways Geneva

By Janice Tober

A Weekend in Geneva Geneva wears a mantle of formality, but underneath it all, there is a comfortable, hip undercurrent waiting to be discovered – making it the perfect city to experience both high-end luxe and the fashionably affordable.

People are often quick to tell you that Geneva (Switzerland’s banking and financial hub) is too expensive, and this can be true: the city often caters to elite politicos, ambassadors, diplomats and world leaders. Though luxury is plentiful in this fascinating city, there is still plenty to do here that will not break the bank. Follow our high/low guide to finding a happy mix of things that are either posh but pricey, or hip yet affordable – all worth your hard-earned dime. Note that the exchange rate is essentially equal at the time of this feature: 1 CHF = 1.005 USD.

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© Can Stock Photo / daibui

FRIDAY A Place To Lay Your Head Once you arrive, check-in at the Grand Hotel Kempinski (Quai du Mont-Blanc 19, 1201 Genève), befitting of the “grand” in its name with a marble lobby so large that I am convinced it could hold the plane that just brought me to Switzerland. When it is quiet, the only thing that can be heard is the sound of my own shoes squeaking as I try to quietly get to the elevator without too much notice. The only one who seems to mind, however, is me, as the staff smile hello, and patrons continue talking without missing a beat while sitting at one of the many lounging areas in this lavish lobby.

Kempinski Hotels is the oldest luxury hotel group in Europe, and this hotel with 412 rooms and suites, is Geneva’s largest five-star property. The hotel is a modern marvel situated on Quai du Mont-Blanc, one of Geneva’s swankiest boulevards, and home to many of the 11 five-star hotels in the city, the best restaurants and numerous trendy bars for all likes and desires.

It is also close to the main train station, Old Town and many of Geneva’s other famous sites.

Photography: Grand Hotel Kempinski

Rooms are contemporary in style, equipped with a tub/shower combo, a seating area, work desk, flat-screen television, in-room iPad and a Nespresso machine. For the best view looking out over Lac Léman and the notable Jet d’eau fountain that is synonymous with Geneva, book room 6617, a Deluxe Lakeview Room that includes a small balcony.

The hotel houses three restaurants, one comfy lounge, two uber-hip bars that are popular with locals, a pool and a world-class spa. Prices at the hotel begin at around CHF 500, but package deals can be found on the hotel’s web site that can lower the price significantly. If money is no object, then live large in (quite literally) the largest suite in Europe. At almost 12,000 square feet (1,115 square meters), the Geneva Suite comes in at a breathtaking CHF 50,000 per night.

A Person Has To Eat

Photography: Janice Tober

Before taking on the town, grab a bite at one of the hotel’s restaurants — Il Vero serves authentic Italian with truly outstanding espresso for those similarly addicted to caffeine; or head over the Pont du Mont-Blanc, and into the heart of Old Town to visit a more modest Tuscan-style Italian eatery, La Favola (rue Jean-Calvin 15, 1204 Genève). In this cozy, cheerful little restaurant close to St Peter’s Cathedral, you will find melt-in-your-mouth braised beef ravioli with truffles, Barolo and parmesan, as well as tender osso bucco with risotto “Milanese” and saffron.

Prices at La Favola range from CHF 25 for a starter to CHF 62 for the rack of lamb main course, but if you order the Plat du jour (which I highly recommend), the daily starter, entrée and dessert will only cost you CHF 35.

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Getaways Geneva

Old Town Treasures How To Get Here Many airlines in the United States, Canada and Europe fly direct to Geneva. I flew with Air Canada from Toronto to Zurich, and spent some time there before taking the train to Geneva using a Swiss Travel Pass. Trains from Zurich and the Swiss capital of Bern leave every half-hour, taking approximately 2 hours 45 minutes from Zurich and 1 hour 45 minutes from Bern.

“

Old Town takes you back to a period before ordered streets and technological contraptions...

After being fortified with pasta, it is time to check out the scenic sites in the medieval Old Town. A picturesque area with small winding streets, park-like squares and quaint shops and cafés, Geneva’s Old Town takes you back to a period before ordered streets and technological contraptions existed. There are plenty of places to discover, and exploring the area’s nooks and crannies can take an hour, or a day, depending only on the time you have available.

Must-sees include Maison Tavel (Rue du Puits-Saint-Pierre 6, 1204 Genève) – also known as the Museum of Urban History and Daily Life – to have a look at the large-scale model of 1850’s Geneva that was still surrounded by its stone fortifications, which took the architect Auguste Magnin 18 years to finish, and the twelve-room 18th-century apartment on the second level.

Inside the Romanesque-Gothic St. Peter’s Cathedral (Place du Bourg-de-Four 24, 1204 Genève), you will feel the stony weight of history as the cathedral’s imposing structure and sombre décor give credibility to its importance during the Protestant Reformation. (For history geeks, 2017 is the anniversary of the Reformation, and Geneva is the place to go for sites that reflect this tumultuous period.) This was the adopted church of one of the leaders of the Reformation, John (Jean) Calvin, and the lack of interior ornamentation exemplifies the strict Calvinist ideals of the time, which I found stark, yet beautiful. Take the time to trek up the 157 steps of the copper-green gothic bell tower for the most fantastic views over Geneva.

An Exquisite Dining Experience Geneva has a total of 13 Michelin-starred restaurants, and you must try at least one of them for an unparalleled once-in-alifetime dining experience.

Walk down Rue de la Corraterie, one of the prettiest streets in Old Town, and then finish the day shopping (or maybe just browsing) on Rue du Rhône, home to the highest concentration of luxury boutiques in the world. And the best chocolatiers?

These are on Rue du Marché.

Photography: Geneva Tourism

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Getaways Geneva Bayview (Quai Wilson 47, 1201 Genève 21) at the Hotel President Wilson (yes, as in Woodrow Wilson) is a gorgeous restaurant just down the street from the Grand Hotel Kempinski. Operated by celebrity chef Michel Roth, the restaurant has earned one Michelin star and serves seasonal food that has a very French slant. The interior is cool modern, with white tables and chairs, warm walnut wood, blue glass accents, a stunning wine showroom at the entrance and a striking floral arrangement placed on a suspended table in the center of the room – making a great topic of discussion for my dining companion and me.

Prepare for a menu full of surprises, such as the delicious duck foie gras Religieuse with vanilla pineapple and passion fruit; a sea bass and shellfish dish that comes bathed in a cress coulis with sweet and mild Brousse cheese agnolotti, and is topped with raw oysters and luscious caviar; and a tender and hearty veal filet mignon served with green peas and violet artichokes that finishes fresh with a lemon thyme crumble.

The six-course Menu dégustation is CHF 130, and the eight-course menu is CHF 170.

Tips To Help You Get Around Once you arrive at the Geneva International Airport, you can find a transport ticket machine that will give you a ticket to the main train station at no cost in the baggage claims area. At the train station, you can either continue by bus or tram to your hotel, or simply take a taxi.

One of the good things about staying in a hotel in Geneva is that you receive a very handy Geneva Transport Card. This card allows you use buses, boats, trains and trams within Zone 10 for free. If your hotel does not give it to you upon check-in, make sure to inquire with them.

As part of the transport system, Geneva has public boats (Mouettes) that cross Lac Léman. Your Transport Card is valid on these boats. mouettesgenevoises.ch

Photography: President Wilson Hotel

Another hotel restaurant, Le Chat Botté (Quai du Mont-Blanc 13, 1201 Genève), is found in the grande dame Hotel Beau-Rivage, a Leading Hotels of the World property. A neat fact for those interested in Austrian history is that this happens to be the hotel where an anarchist stabbed Sisi (the Empress Elisabeth) outside of the hotel.

She was then taken back to her suite where she passed away.

This is a contemporary restaurant with a classic feel thanks to the cream-colored walls, coffered ceilings and rectangular pillars; and is just down the street from the Grand Hotel Kempinski. Chef Dominique Gauthier leads the restaurant where he creates French gourmand delights such as Swiss veal sweetbreads with green local lentils, moist sea bass with lemon caviar, fennel and yuzu and the luscious veal shank with mandarin and ginger. These exquisite goodies have earned the Chef one Michelin star. Prices for lunch start at CHF 60 and goes to CHF 220 for a multicourse dinner menu.

If you have a valid Swiss Travel Pass, it can be used for the day trip to Lavaux, and then to go between various villages. It can be purchased through the Switzerland Tourism web site. geneve.com

The Geneva Pass (available for 24, 48 or 72 hours) will give free entry (or discounted rates) for attractions, museums and tons of tours (including a walking tour of Carouge). It can be purchased through the Geneva Tourism web site. geneve.com

The tourist information center can be found at Rue du Mont-Blanc 18

Photography: Janice Tober

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Getaways Geneva My final pick is a rare treat: a two-Michelin-starred country house restaurant located just outside of the city. Domaine de Chateauvieux (Chemin de Châteauvieux 16, Peney-Dessus, 1242 Satigny, Genève) is set in a lovely stone 16th-century house nestled on a hill in the heart of Geneva’s countryside. Unless you have a rental car, a taxi is necessary (and you will be convinced that you must be lost), but stay the course – the pricey ride is worth it. I arrived just as the sun was beginning to set over the lush gardens and vineyards, and I knew immediately that this place was special.

On a Thursday night, it was packed with guests eager to savor the

Photography: Domaine de Cheteauvieux

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talents of Philippe Chevrier, the owner and chef, whose edible creations include things like succulent pigeon served with green cabbage and bacon, flavored with saffron, pear and star anise; and then there was the delicate scallop tartare joined by a citrus sea water jelly, caviar and seaweed bread with fleur de sel.

A mid-week five-course menu is CHF 96, and a multicourse dinner ranges from CHF 190 to CHF 380. Domaine de Chateauvieux also has 13 rooms if you choose to stay overnight starting at CHF 217.

SATURDAY Geneva has its very own version of New York City’s Greenwich Village: Carouge. Originally built by the Sardinians as a separate rival city, it is now a district of Geneva, and home to artists and artisans who give the area a sort of Mediterranean boho feel.

Full of hip local bistros, bars and boutiques — including Atelier Matin Bleu (Rue Ancienne 5, 1227 Carouge) owned by Emmanuelle Bronzino, who makes her own fabrics for her clothing lines. You can

Have “Carouge” To Face The Day easily spend a morning checking out the galleries and shops while admiring the 18th century Italianate style of architecture lining the district’s checkerboard alleyways and streets. A few “must-see” spots include chocolatier Philippe Pascoët (Passage des Lions, 1204 Genève) for a delicate treat such as their amazing ganaches, Boutique L'Effrontée (Rue Saint-Victor 24, 1227 Carouge) for au courant ready-to-wear women’s fashion; chic and trendy handmade

handbags at Chris Murner (Rue Ancienne 43, 1227 Carouge GE), the best café to caffeinate and enjoy your favorite coffee drink, Valmandin (Rue Ancienne 46, 1227 Carouge); and L’échappée belle (Rue Saint-Victor 1, 1227 Carouge) for all-around nifty items. And as an added bonus, if you go on a Wednesday or Saturday morning (as well as Thursday evenings now), there is a farmer’s market offering local produce and goods.

The area is perfect for unhurried, rambling roaming, but if you want a path to follow, then make your way to Place du Marché. At the Town Hall (Place du Marché 14, 1227 Geneva), you can pick up a bilingual guide of the area with a suggested walk. Before leaving this little world, have a bite to eat at the stylish Asian favorite, Paku Paku (Rue Vautier 43, 1227 Carouge) to fuel up for the rest of the day.

Photography: Courtesy Geneva Tourism

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Getaways Geneva

Soak in Alpine Waters The Swiss love their baths, and most folks head to the Bains des Pâquis (Quai du Mont-Blanc 30, 1201 Genève) in Geneva during the summer. However, if you are up for trying something more modern, the Bain-Bleu Hammam & Spa (Quai de Cologny 3, 1223 Cologny) is the place to go for a blissful bath experience.

Located in a quiet neighborhood (take bus N°6 or N°2, direction Genève Plage), this spa and bath is sensuously sexy — in a good, clean way, of course; it is a bath, after all.

Once you enter this spa, which opened at the end of 2015, you are cocooned in a dimly lit space filled with shimmering mosaic tiles and sparkling patterns on the walls and ceiling from the magical Moroccan lamps.

If you opt for the hammam circuit — and this is a true hammam (not just a steam room that is called a hammam, which we see too often these days), so it is like being in a jewel box. Rich reds and opulent oranges surround you, whether in the aromatic steam rooms, the scrub rooms, or in the central pool. There are even private, couples’ steam rooms where couples slather mud on each other, and then shower it all off. A traditional soapsuds scrub can

be booked in advance to get an authentic experience and, at the end of the circuit, the Oriental Salon is “1001 Arabian Nights” made real. You enter individual apartments through embossed sliding golden doors to find a large daybed covered in cushions, replete with rugs, and all you hear is soft murmurings coming from the room next to you.

The rest of the baths are also nicely naughty, but instead of those fiery hammam colors, industrial cool concrete walls, burnished metal and whitewashed woods now surround you. The main pool, called the Mythical Bath, has streaming waterfalls, secret alcoves, and jets that unexpectedly flow up from the pool floor. On the rooftop, the pool has metallic, contoured bubble loungers and mini-jetted tubs for one or two that look out over the lake and to the mountains beyond. Perfection.

To use the pools, prices start at CHF 28, and CHF 42 to also access the hammam. These prices give you access for the entire day. The hammam has a small café and there is also a bistro onsite. Time permitting; this is a great place to spend the better part of a day.

Photography: Bain-Bleu Hammam & Spa

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Getaways Geneva

Meat Mania There are times that many of us just want a good burger, especially after an afternoon of soaking and relaxing. The Hamburger Foundation (Rue Philippe-Plantamour 37, 1201 Genève), started by three Genevese childhood friends, began as a food truck; then another food truck, and finally two restaurants. The restaurant in Paquis (by the Grand Hotel Kempinski) is a true hamburger joint, serving juicy medium-rare burgers with buns crammed full of leafy lettuce, fresh tomatoes, crisp onions, crunchy pickles and just enough mayo, mustard and ketchup to seal the delicious deal. It is pretty straightforward: order a hamburger, cheeseburger or bacon cheeseburger along with a side of slaw or fries, add in a bottle of either Cheap, Better or Best red or white wine and it is a meal accompli. The beef is all local, and ground to exacting standards by the in-house butcher. Burger bliss.

SUNDAY Breakfast of Champions On the final morning in Geneva, take a short walk down the street from the hotel to visit the charming Cottage Café (Rue Adhémar-Fabri 7, 1201 Genève).

Set in a little brick house found in the Jardins de Brunswick, this eclectic café serves breakfast until 11 a.m. with a laid-back and comfortable vibe. Organic breads, homemade jam, fresh-pressed juices and oh-so-delicious hearty Swiss bircher muesli make up the breaky menu here.

Burgers start at around CHF 15, and a “Cheap” bottle of red is CHF 30. No need to be afraid of ordering the “cheap” wine; anything local is delicious.

Tummy full, you can be on your way to begin your next adventure.

Thank you for another amazing weekend Geneva!

Photography: Janice Tober

Photography: Geneva Tourism

Finish the evening back at the hotel at FloorTwo Lounge. This spacious lounge attracts the beautiful crowd as they vie for the coveted tables by the windows that look out over the Jet d’eau.

© Can Stock Photo / alphacell

Cocktail Hour

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Getaways Geneva

Day Trip: Lovin’ Lavaux About an hour outside of Geneva is the little-known wine area of Lavaux. With terraced vineyards set on impossibly steep ancient hills, these quaint towns have Michelin-starred restaurants and gregarious winemakers ready to talk about their craft at the drop of a hat. It is no wonder that the singer, Prince, wrote a song called “Lavaux” after he visited here in 2010.

Here are some tips to make the most of your visit to this UNESCO World Heritage site: Take a train from Geneva to either the small town of Lutry or Cully to take the Lavaux Express train (www.lavauxexpress.ch/en) — which is actually wheeled, and drives on pavement. This train takes you right through some of the towns and vineyards along its route.

Where To Find More Atelier Matin Bleu: matinbleu.eu Auberge de l’Onde: aubergedelonde.ch Bain-Bleu Hammam & Spa: bain-bleu.ch Bains de Paquis: bains-des-paquis.ch Bayview: restaurantbayview.com Boutique L'Effrontée: leffrontee.ch Carouge: carouge.ch Chaplin’s World Museum: chaplinsworld.com Chillon Castle: chillon.ch Chris Murner: chrismurner.ch Cottage Café: cottagecafe.ch Domaine de Chateauvieux: chateauvieux.ch FloorTwo Lounge: luxegetaways.info/floor2 Geneva Tourism: geneve.com Grand Hotel Kempinski: kempinski.com Hotel Beau Rivage: beau-rivage.ch Hotel President Wilson: hotelpresidentwilson.com Il Vero: luxegetaways.info/ilvero L’échappée belle: lechappee-belle.ch La Favola: restaurant-la-favola.ch Le Chat Botté: luxegetaways.info/chatbotte Paku Paku: misuji.ch/pakupaku Philippe Pascoët: philippe-pascoet.ch St. Peter’s Cathedral: saintpierre-geneve.ch Switzerland Tourism: myswitzerland.com The Hamburger Foundation: thehamburgerfoundation.ch Tout un Monde: toutunmonde.ch Valmandin: valmandin.ch

If you go it alone, you can rent a car or take the train from Geneva to any of 14 villages in the region.

There is a two-hour (or so) walk you can do on your own (mostly downhill!) that starts in Grandvaux and ends in Lutry. When you get to Grandvaux, make a stop first at the restaurant, Tout un Monde (Place du Village 7, 1091 Bourg-en-Lavaux). It has excellent food, and the views are to die for.

St-Saphorin is one of my favorite stops. Here, cobblestoned streets and medieval stone houses make up this picturesque village, with its little shops and lovely wine bars and restaurants like Auberge de l’Onde (Centre du Village, Chemin Neuf, 1071 Saint-Saphorin) that is a sensational fine dining option.

If you want to do more than eat and drink, then visit the new Chaplin’s World Museum (Route de Fenil 2, 1804 Corsier-sur-Vevey) in Vevey, or the dramatic Chillon Castle (Avenue de Chillon 21, 1820 Veytaux) near Montreux.

Photography: Régis Colombo for Lavaux

Montreux Riviera Tourism: www.montreuxriviera.com

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SPRING 2017 Photography: Janice Tober

Travel Gear Travel Smart

Boarding Pass To Better

BY DEBBI K. KICKHAM

A

s the author of The Globetrotter’s Get-Gorgeous Guide, I am always on the lookout for products that can make any trip that much better. When traveling by plane, bring special snacks to avoid falling off the diet wagon. These can include dried prunes, which are filled with antioxidants and potassium, and only 20 calories. I also never leave without packing my breakfast of champions – Kashi cereal, raisins and powdered milk. Just add water and you are good-to-go. Packets of almonds, Laughing Cow lowfat cheese wedges, diet bread and flavored water packets are also smart snacks – and more slimming than the hotel minibar.

Visit Minimus.biz to stock up on all of your must-have travel sized products, such as cosmetics, foods and personal care items. Make sure to also scan your passport into your Smartphone, and carry photocopies of it in your checked luggage. Last but not least, here is one more thing that you should always travel with: A sense of humor. It packs easily, zips through Customs and is your passport to the best getaway ever – even if you wind up with jet lag. We have put together a few favorite products to add comfort, luxury and wellbeing to your next journey.

TRAVEL

Your guide to making sure that every trip feels like first-class... even in coach.

1. Oscillococcinum Oscillococcinum is the top-selling over-the-counter flu medicine in France, and I swear by it. Take Oscillo the moment you feel a headache, body aches, chills or fever coming on. It reduces the duration and severity of these flu-like symptoms, and is even an industry secret found on many Hollywood movie sets. Oscillo does not cause drowsiness, and is widely available in US drugstores and supermarkets.

Boironusa.com

2. Silk Pillowcase and Eyeshades Why silk? Because it is softer on your skin and hair than cotton, and it does not cause facial creases and wrinkles.

Bring your own pillow on the plane, and top it with a silk pillowcase (and your favorite eyeshades). Add a cashmere blanket and facial moisturizer to create your own nighttime bliss.

Branchebeautysleep.com

4. Scented Towelettes Herban Essentials makes scented towelettes that smell divine – they are fragranced with real essential oils – and have a million-and-one uses. Use the orange to disinfect your surroundings on the plane (including the tray table), or simply sniff to feel uplifted. Use the lavender to tuck into your pillow at night to induce sleep, or use them to relieve bug bites and to remove makeup. And try the lemon as an aftershave, to clean your computer keyboard, or as a pick-me-up after exercising. They are the best towelettes on the planet.

herbanessentials.com

3. Bass Weejuns No matter where I am traveling, I am wearing Bass Weejuns. Not only are they classy, comfortable and high quality, but also more stylish than sneakers. The G.H.Bass & Co. makes the classic loafers for men and women, but they have also introduced some new fashion statements with colors like pink, gold, copper and more. Make them your on-trend travel sole-mates.

ghbass.com

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Home & Design Model Homes

THE BEST COMBINATION OF RESORT AND RESIDENTIAL LIVING

BY DAMON M. BANKS Luxury resort amenities with an exclusive residential community environment provide residents with the best of both worlds.

Photography: Ritz Carlton Dove Mountain

For a permanent residence, or a vacation getaway, having a home that is set among the many amenities and activities of a luxury resort just makes everyday life that much better. The Residences at The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain and Four Seasons Private Residences Anguilla take the level of luxurious residences to an entirely new level. These model homes are ideal for those looking for a home for entertaining and vacation getaways; growing families wanting a safe neighborhood for their kids; or mature residents looking for the security and services that come from a luxury resort. From the rugged sands of the Sonoran Desert to the white sand beaches of Anguilla, these communities are associated with two of the most prominent names in luxury hotels and resorts, and provide their residents with the best of both worlds – luxury resort amenities with an exclusive residential community environment.

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Home & Design Model Homes

Photography: Ritz Carlton Dove Mountain

THE RESIDENCES AT THE RITZ-CARLTON, DOVE MOUNTAIN This exclusive residential community is nestled in the beautiful Sonoran Desert, and offers spectacular vistas of the Tortolita Mountains. The community features hotel and spa amenities at The Ritz-Carlton, a 45,000 square foot (4,181 square meter) clubhouse complex, 27 holes of Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf, an olympic-sized swimming pool, and miles of hiking, biking, walking and horseback riding trails. Owners experience the luxury resort lifestyle with a full resort membership included in each home purchase.

There are a number of home options within the community, but we are especially impressed with the Castillo floorplan – a grand desert residence with an impressive living room and towering fireplace. The entrance way provides a serene environment with a fountain setting, great firepit for those cool desert evenings by the pool in the backyard, disappearing window walls in the living spaces and an additional casita that is ideal for out-of-town guests. 4,725 square feet (439 square meters). www.theresidencesdovemountain.com

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Photography: Four Seasons Anguilla

FOUR SEASONS PRIVATE RESIDENCES ANGUILLA Encircled by sugar-sand beaches and clear turquoise sea, the Four Seasons Residences are located along the northwestern shore offering 3,200 feet of pristine beachfront and sweeping views of the breaking surf. Residents enjoy access to all resort amenities such as bars, outdoor lounges and restaurants, spa, pool and watersport activities. This residential community brings the best of the Caribbean living to you with these authentic Caribbean-inspired homes that range from one-bedroom Deluxe Studios to five-bedroom Beachfront Villas – all with unobstructed views of the ocean, or direct access to beach and water.

These homes and villas offer an exceptional style of living in Anguilla, and Beachfront Villa 4 is over-the-top luxurious. In a destination that already provides some of the best natural views in the Caribbean, these floor to ceiling windows and an open floor plan brings the outdoors in. Designed by Kelly Wearstler, the property has elevated the caliber of seaside luxury by combining a modern design with the stunning natural surroundings to further compliment the legendary Four Seasons experience that we all appreciate. 9,500 square feet (883 square meters). www.anguillaprivateresidences.com

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Special Feature Miami

Miami is always a fabulous destination to visit.

BY ANDREW VILLAGOMEZ

WHERE TO EAT, SLEEP & EXPLORE IN

MIAMI Miami and the surrounding beaches are where the world comes to play…

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Whether you are traveling for work or play, there is always something new to see, do, taste, and experience in this trendy South Florida hot spot. From the growing Wynwood and Design districts to the see and be seen allure of South Beach; the neighborhoods of Miami each provide something entirely unique to the locals and tourists — a record 15.8 million overnight visitors were welcomed by Miami-Dade County last year, so perhaps 2017 is the year to add Miami to your travel schedules.

With warm weather year-round, spring is a prime time to visit before the sizzling summer temperatures make an appearance. However, if you don’t visit until the summer months, it is still possible to avoid the heat by enjoying the area’s poolside cabanas, fine dining and a growing number of cultural offerings. Plus, you can get more for your buck during these months with extra happy hours throughout Miami and South Florida, and money-saving events like Miami Spa Month (July and August) and Miami Spice (August and September) when restaurants offer three-course meals featuring signature dishes created by world-renowned chefs at reduced prices.

For those preparing a visit to Miami, we wanted to provide the basic essentials for planning your ultimate getaway, and focus on the dining, shopping and other cultural activities available in Miami, Miami Beach and several of the surrounding areas in South Florida.

WHAT TO DO BEST MUSEUMS AND ART Adrienne Arsht Center arshtcenter.org Bass Museum of Art thebass.org Museum of Contemporary Art North Miami mocanomi.org Pérez Art Museum Miami pamm.org Wynwood Walls thewynwoodwalls.com

BEST SPA LOCATIONS Acqualina Spa by ESPA, Acqualina Resort & Spa luxegetaways.info/acqualina Carillon Miami Wellness Resort carillonhotel.com Lapis, Spa at Fontainebleau fontainebleau.com/spa Mandarin Oriental Miami luxegetaways.info/mom-spa The Standard Spa, Miami Beach luxegetaways.info/standard

BEST POOLS 1 Hotel South Beach 1hotels.com/south-beach Freehand Miami freehandhotels.com/miami Loews Miami Beach loewshotels.com/miami-beach Mondrian South Beach luxegetaways.info/mondrian The Setai, Miami Beach thesetaihotel.com

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Photography: Nautilus South Beach

WHERE TO STAY...

NORTH BEACH

SOUTH OF FIFTH

St. Regis Bal Harbor Resort 9703 Collins Avenue, Bal Harbour (305) 993-3300 stregisbalharbour.com

Hilton Bentley Miami/South Beach 101 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach (305) 938-4600 luxegetaways.info/bentley

The Ritz-Carlton Bal Harbour, Miami 10295 Collins Avenue, Bal Harbour (305) 455-5400 luxegetaways.info/ritz-bal

Marriott Stanton South Beach 161 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach (305) 536-7700 luxegetaways.info/stanton

SOUTH BEACH

DOWNTOWN

OUTSIDE OF MIAMI

MID BEACH

National Hotel 1677 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach (305) 532-2311 nationalhotel.com

Conrad Miami 1395 Brickell Avenue, Miami (305) 503-6500 luxegetaways.info/conrad

Fontainebleau Miami Beach 4441 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach (305) 538-2000 fontainebleau.com

Diplomat Resort & Spa Hollywood 3555 S Ocean Drive, Hollywood (954) 602-6000 diplomatresort.com

Nautilus South Beach, a SIXTY Hotel 1825 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach (305) 503-5700 luxegetaways.info/sixty-sb

Four Seasons Hotel Miami 1435 Brickell Avenue, Miami (305) 358-3535 fourseasons.com/miami

Nobu Hotel Eden Roc 4525 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach (305) 531-0000 nobuedenroc.com

SLS South Beach 1701 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach (305) 674-1701 slshotels.com/southbeach

Mandarin Oriental, Miami 500 Brickell Key Drive, Miami (305) 913-8288 mandarinoriental.com/miami

The Confidante Miami Beach 4041 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach (305) 424-1234 luxegetaways.info/confidante

Fisher Island Club Hotel & Resort, Miami Beach 1 Fisher Island Drive, Miami Beach (800) 537-3708 fisherislandclub.com

The Tides South Beach 1220 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach (305) 604-5070 tidessouthbeach.com

SLS Brickell 1300 S Miami Avenue, Miami (305) 239-1300 slshotels.com/brickell

The Miami Beach EDITION 2901 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach (786) 257-4500 editionhotels.com/miami-beach

Miami Biltmore Hotel, Coral Gables 1200 Anastasia Avenue, Coral Gables (855) 311-6903 www.biltmorehotel.com The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami 455 Grand Bay Drive, Key Biscayne (305) 365-4500 luxegetaways.info/ritz-key

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MORE REASONS TO VISIT MIAMI THIS SEASON 48

SPRING 2017 Photography: Marriott Stanton South Beach

Miami Beach Polo World Cup April 2017 (Dates TBD) thepololife.com Longines Global Champions Tour April 13-15 luxegetaways.info/lgct World OutGames May 26 – June 4 outgames.org Miami Fashion Week May 31 – June 4 miamifasionweek.com

UPSCALE Il Gabbiano 335 S Biscayne Boulevard, Miami (305) 373-0063 ilgabbianomia.com The Forge 432 W 41st Street, Miami Beach (305) 538-8533 theforge.com Zuma 270 Biscayne Boulevard Way, Miami (305) 577-0277 zumarestaurant.com

SUGGESTIONS FROM OUR FRIENDS AT THE MARRIOTT STANTON SOUTH BEACH:

FAMILY Big Pink 157 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach (305) 532-4700 luxegetaways.info/bigpink Lolo's Surf Cantina 161 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach (305) 735-6973 loloscantina.com

Key Biscayne Pack a picnic bag from the hotel’s Mexican restaurant Lolo’s Surf Cantina and head to the island of Key Biscayne - perfect for sunny beach days, turquoise water swims, and sunset bike rides.

Pizza Rustica 667 Lincoln Road Miami Beach (305) 672-2334 pizzarustica.hungerrush.com

PAMM For the couple who appreciates contemporary art.

PAMM museum is an architectural beauty in itself with large hanging ivy pillars setting the tone for relaxed browsing of awesome artwork. Head outside to lounge in the suspended, hammock-like swings overlooking the sparkling Biscayne Bay.

POWER LUNCH Caviar Russe 1441 Brickell Avenue, Miami (305) 902-6969 www.caviarrusse.com

South Beach has great nightlife, but for singles looking to explore beyond the Beach, Coconut Grove is a great spot for bar-hopping (locals call it “The Grove”), and meeting new people.

Wynwood Eccentric nightlife scene with an artistic flair.

Expect to meet and mingle with creative minds while exploring this art district. Make sure to check out the bars at night - Bardot is a favorite late-night spot among locals.

Ball & Chain in Calle Ocho A staple Miami experience in the historically Cuban district of Miami. Live Latin music and new friends await you on the dance floor, where salsa dancing is encouraged. Novice dancers, not to worry – there are plenty of guys and gals to teach the moves.

Make sure to order a mojito (or two).

Brickell City Centre This brand new, futuristic-styled shopping mecca is in the heart of Brickell - the high-rise, fast-pace business district of Miami. With 5.4 million sq. ft. of retail shops, restaurants and more, you are sure to find something special to buy your significant other while browsing the endless store options.

WHERE TO EAT...

The Grove

Coya Miami 999 Brickell Avenue, Miami (305) 415-9990 coyarestaurant.com/miami Verde 1103 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami (305) 375-8282 pamm.org/dining

STEAK Christy’s 3101 Ponce De Leon Boulevard, Miami (305) 446-1400 christysrestaurant.com Prime 112 112 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach (305) 532-8112 luxegetaways.info/prime112 Smith & Wollensky Washington Avenue, Miami Beach (305) 673-2800 smithandwollensky.com

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Photography: Marriott Stanton South Beach

ROMANTIC

BRUNCH

COFFEE

Bianca 1685 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach (305) 674-5752 luxegetaways.info/bianca

Beaker & Gray 2637 N Miami Avenue, Miami (305) 699-2637 beakerandgray.com

B Sweet Coffee Shop 20 NE 41st Street, Miami (305) 918-4453 bsweetmiami.com

CVI.CHE 105 105 NE 3rd Avenue, Miami (305) 577-3454 ceviche105.com

Matador Room 2901 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach (786) 257-4600 matadorroom.com

Eternity Coffee Roasters 117 SE 2nd Avenue, Miami (305) 350-7761 luxegetaways.info/eternity

KOMODO Restaurant & Lounge 801 Brickell Avenue, Miami (305) 534-2211 komodomiami.com

Yardbird Southern Table & Bar 1600 Lenox Avenue, Miami Beach (305) 538-5220 runchickenrun.com

Panther Coffee 2390 NW 2nd Avenue, Miami (305) 677-3952 panthercoffee.com

ROOFTOP

DESSERT

VEGETARIAN

Area 31 270 Biscayne Boulevard Way, Miami (305) 424-5234 area31restaurant.com

Azucar Ice Cream Company 1503 SW 8th Street, Miami (305) 381-0369 azucaricecream.com

Bocce 3252 NE 1st Avenue, Miami (786) 245-6211 bocceristorante.com

Juvia 1111 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach (305) 763-8272 juviamiami.com

Bunnie Cakes 2322 NE 2nd Avenue, Miami (786) 268-9790 bunniecakes.com

Della Test Kitchen 56 NW 29th Street, Miami (305) 351-2961 dellabowls.com

watr at the 1 Rooftop 2341 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach (305) 604-6580 luxegetaways.info/watr

Sugar Factory Ocean Drive 1144 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach (305) 604-0323 luxegetaways.info/sfod

DIRT 232 5th Street, Miami Beach (305) 763-8548 dirteatclean.com

POOLSIDE National Hotel Aqua Club 1677 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach (305) 532-2311 nationalhotel.com/food Nautilus Cabana Club 1825 Collins Avenue Miami Beach (305) 503-5700 luxegetaways.info/nautilus Santorini by Georgios 101 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach (305) 672-6624 santorinibygeorgios.com

COCKTAIL WINE Atrio Restaurant and Wine Room 1395 Brickell Avenue, Miami (305) 503-6500 luxegetaways.info/atrio

Full Bloom 11 Island Avenue, Miami Beach (305) 397-8018 fullbloomvegan.com

Cibo Wine Bar South Beach 200 South Pointe Drive, Miami Beach (305) 987-6060 luxegetaways.info/cibo

Plant Food + Wine Miami 105 NE 24th Street, Miami (305) 814-5365 luxegetaways.info/plantlab

La Cave D'Azur 309 23rd Street, Miami Beach (305) 538-2118 lacavedazur.com

Plant Theory 744 6th Street, Miami Beach (305) 672-5785 plant-theory.com

SEAFOOD Bazaar Mar by Jose Andres 1300 S Miami Avenue, Miami (305) 615-5859 luxegetaways.info/bazaar Izzy's Fish & Oyster 423 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach (305) 397-8843 izzysmiami.com Joe's Stone Crab Restaurant 11 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach (305) 673-0365 joesstonecrab.com

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GLUTEN-FREE

Bodega Taqueria y Tequila 1220 16th Street, Miami Beach (305) 704-2145 bodegasouthbeach.com The Broken Shaker 2727 Indian Creek Dr, Miami Beach (305) 531-2727 luxegetaways.info/shaker Sushi Garage 1784 West Avenue, Miami Beach (305) 763-8355 www.sushigarage.com

“At DÔA we respect traditional Japanese and Chinese techniques however, using and incorporating Latin American ingredients,” says Carlos Estarita, Executive Chef at DÔA. “Miami is an incredible melting pot of different cultures and backgrounds however, and most importantly it is the biggest Latin American hub outside of Latin America itself – it is the ‘gateway’ of sorts.”

RESTAURANT PROFILE: DÔA

BY DAMON M. BANKS DÔA is a true neighborhood styled eatery that is affordable, casual and approachable.

In Japanese DÔA [DOW – AH] means “The Door,” but in Miami, however, it signifies an exciting venture by the global renowned restaurateur, Arjun Waney. As an Asian Cantina concept, DÔA is quickly becoming a favorite hot spot by locals and tourists alike – all looking for a comfortable and trendy environment with amazing food (and cocktails!) near Collins Park. The LatAsian cuisine features dynamic flavors that are unique to the Asian influenced cooking born in Latin America. Most importantly, these big tastes come to guests in a destination that is affordable, casual and approachable.

Our Favorite Dishes: To start, the traditional ceviche, DÔA ceviche maki, pork buns, shrimp siumai, chicken skewer, and miso eggplant. For the entrees, the seafood hot pot with a Robata grilled steak of choice and the delicious Robata grilled corn or Yuca.

“We chose the location near Collins Park because we truly feel the neighborhood is underserved in our segment,” says Arman Naqi, Vice-President and Director of Development. “We are not looking to compete; we are looking to complement the neighbors.”

DÔA 2000 Collins Avenue Miami Beach (305) 587-2000 doacantina.com

LUX EG E TAWAYS.C OM Photography: DOA Restaurant

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Special Feature Miami

M

s. Adrienne Arsht is often referred to as “Miami’s Savior,” and for good reason. Beyond rescuing the performing arts community with a $30 million gift to what is now known internationally as The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, Ms. Arsht remains dedicated to preserving the performing arts community and the area’s rich history. With both pride and humility, Ms. Arsht says, “I’m truly honored to have this magnificent Center carry my name, and even find myself doing a double-take and laughing when I see my name also gracing the sides of the wastebaskets and the signs at the metro stop.”

Ms. Arsht calls Miami, Washington DC and New York City home, and works tirelessly with each of these communities to continue promoting their artistic, business and civic growth. This cherished business leader and very hands-on philanthropist maintains a balance of business expertise with her heart of gold. Ms. Arsht continues to give back to these communities in ways that they never knew were possible; and it is not just writing of a check, but rather looking at the big picture, and preparing for a better future.

When you have the opportunity to speak with Ms. Arsht, her love for Miami is apparent by the excitement in her voice and the numerous favorite things to do and see in the area. If only for a single day, a day in Miami with Adrienne Arsht is like no other day you will experience in this thrilling city of culture and exuberance. Ms. Arsht says, “I know I’m home when I arrive at the airport to see the beautiful brass fossil inlay done by local artist, Michele Oka Doner. And then when I’m departing, I wonder why I’m leaving at all.”

Ms. Arsht admits that she often entertains at her home while in Miami, as that is where she feels the most relaxed; and she loves ending the evenings with friends by the piano. However, she does have a number of favorite places to dine in the area, including these five unique Miami dining experiences.

The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts 1300 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami, FL 33132 arshtcenter.org

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Top: Arsht Center- 10th Anniversary - (L to R) John Secada, Estelle, Darran Criss, Adrienne Arsht, Andy Cohen and Michael Feinstein at the Adrienne Arsht Center 10th Anniversary Gala. Photo by Jipsy. Left: Adrienne Arsht.

Photo by Greg Powers.

MIAMI THROUGH MS. ADRIENNE ARSHT’S EYES

Ms. Arsht works tirelessly to continue promoting Miami’s artistic, business and civic growth…

BY DAMON M. BANKS

Family Italian With Fantastic Terrace: Il Gabbiano 335 S. Biscayne Boulevard (305) 373-0063 ilgabbianomia.com Amazing Ice Cream and Desserts: Whip ‘N Dip Ice Cream 1407 Sunset Drive (305) 665-2565 whipndipicecream.com

Dine Before The Show: BRAVA By Brad Kilgore at The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts 1300 Biscayne Boulevard (305) 357-7900 luxegetaways.info/brava Late Night Cuban Experience: Versailles 3555 Southwest 8th Street (305) 444-0240 versaillesrestaurant.com A Timeless Miami Tradition: Café Abbracci 318 Aragon Avenue (305) 441-0700 caffeabbracci.com

Photography: WorldRedEye

Special Feature Miami

BY DAMON M. BANKS Luxury suites are plentiful in Miami and South Florida, but the newly renovated E-WOW Penthouse Suite at the iconic W South Beach takes the feeling of “Florida cool” and the perks of cutting-edge technology to the extreme. The result is an over-the-top luxury penthouse in the sky! When guests do decide to venture outside of their Penthouse, the property has so much to offer those looking for a fully integrated lifestyle experience.

The W South Beach Experience

Experience the luxury penthouse and hotel amenities at the W South Beach…

The E-WOW Penthouse

Features Include:

The 2,200 square-foot, two-story Penthouse features a spacious and sunny open floor plan with nine-foot ceilings, surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows and multiple balconies boasting unrivaled views of the Atlantic Ocean and Miami cityscape. The elegant space boasts a sophisticated feel with a sense of approachability that makes the new Penthouse feel like home.

Ideal for entertaining, the Penthouse is crowned with an expansive rooftop featuring a plunge pool, wood and white-cushioned outdoor living room and dining area accented with driftwood pieces and green vines with blooming flowers crawling up the white walls.

Magnificent ceilings that soar nine feet high with 2,965 sqft. (275 sqm.) of space Private rooftop pool Two spacious bedrooms and bathrooms Japanese plunge pool Washer and dryer in unit Private oversized glass balconies Outdoor grill & BBQ, chaise loungers and dining table Signature W king bed is plush with pillow-top mattress 350-thread-count Egyptian cotton sheets and goose down comforter and pillows Full kitchen with refrigerator, sink and oven A dedicated W Insider for VIP Concierge service, able to personalize your stay and meet every need Preferred admission to WALL, South Beach's most sought-after nightclub Complimentary luxury airport transportation

“The newly redesigned suites offer a heightened level of guest experience at W South Beach,” says Rick Ueno, General Manager of W South Beach.

“We worked closely with Anna Busta to conceptualize the perfect blend of luxury, functionality and timelessness that would accentuate our biggest assets: the breathtaking views, spacious outdoor terraces and luxe amenities.”

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INTRODUCING THE E-WOW PENTHOUSE SUITE AT W SOUTH BEACH

SPRING 2017

W South Beach 22201 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach (305) 938-3000 | wsouthbeach.com

Photography: W Hotel

24-Hour FIT® Gym Bike Rentals Bliss Spa Complimentary WiFi for SPG Members MR CHOW & THE DUTCH dining Pets Welcome (fee) Swish basketball & Swing tennis courts Valet Parking W Store WALL Nightclub Water Sports & Activities Center WET® Outdoor Pools and Cabanas WIRED Business Center

FEATURED MI AMI ADVERTISERS

Special Feature Miami

BY DAMON M. BANKS

Island Gardens caters to the world’s largest superyachts, and is Miami’s exclusive destination that is directly accessed by air, land or sea.

THE ALLURE OF MIAMI’S ISLAND GARDENS

While it is true that Miami is no stranger to buzz-worthy developments making the international headlines, Island Gardens will be one of the largest accomplishments in Miami’s history, and due to be fully operational by the 2018/19 season. From the retail and dining opportunities of Coconut Grove to the arts and culture of the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, Miami has evolved to be much more than just beaches and boardwalks. With the constant development and growth, affluent residents and tourists continue to find more reasons to spend time in the Miami area, making it more important than ever to continue enhancing the level of hotels, residences, retail, restaurants and activities to meet the demands of this discerning demographic.

Miami is hotter than ever with the over-the-top developments that are in the works alongside the mesmerizing seaside destination of Island Gardens. Two of these developments certainly worthy of mentioning are the Brickell City Centre that is near completion and includes high-end retail, condos, offices and even the tallest building to date in Miami; and Miami Worldcenter that is only in the beginning stages, but is another multi-billion dollar project that will feature an enormous mall, rooftop soccer field, Marriott Marquis hotel with convention center and a number of residential towers. These luxury complexes are flourishing, and the South Florida development companies seem to show no sign of slowing down anytime soon.

When Island Gardens is completed, this area of Miami will be utterly transformed, and will feature two luxury hotels, 220,000 square feet of high-end retail and an international collection of waterfront dining options. Perfect for the entire family, Island Gardens is designed to be publically accessible, and will feature a unique collection of public art installations and civic art. While the events at Island Gardens will certainly be plentiful throughout the year, Superyacht Miami is set to be the pinnacle of these luxury events; designed by Show Management, this extension of the Yachts Miami Beach Show will exclusively cater to the superyachts taking advantage of Island Gardens Deep Harbour’s revolutionary design.

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Special Feature Miami

Ideally located in the heart of Biscayne Bay, Island Gardens is strategically situated between Miami’s Arts and Culture District, and the ever-popular South Beach. Looking beyond the commercialized benefits of Biscayne Bay for our modern lifestyles, this area is also naturally significant in many ways. It is the largest estuary on the southeast coast of Florida with a complex ecosystem totaling 428 square miles, and is contiguous with the famous Everglades and Florida Bay. Biscayne Bay is not only home to the Biscayne Bay National Park, the largest marine park in the national park system, but also the Oleta River State Park, Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, Barnacle State Historic Site and more.

What does it take to be a marina that caters specifically to superyachts? Island Gardens Deep Harbour is the first deep-water marina of this capacity in the Western Hemisphere, and opens the door for those superyacht owners wanting to park their “home-away-from-home” at a cutting-edge marina with endless shopping and dining venues just steps away from the docks. With 5,000 linear feet (1524 meters) of slips, Island Gardens Deep Harbour can accommodate 50 of the largest superyachts in the world, stretching up to 550 feet (168 meters) with drafts of 18 to 21 feet (5.5 to 6 meters) deep. These available state-of-the-art utilities, posh amenities and first-class resources look to secure Island Gardens as one of the most sought-after year-round yachting destinations in the world, and most certainly, the United States.

This development is still not yet fully operational with the hotels, restaurants and residences; but the marina is fully operational now, and is accepting daily, monthly, seasonal and annual leases.

Currently, The Deck is an exquisite superyacht marina-front amenity that is now open, and quickly becoming one of the favorite hotspots for locals and tourists alike who are looking for some of the most amazing views imaginable of Biscayne Bay and Downtown Miami. The truth is in the numbers when it comes to developments of this size, and the total non-recurring benefits expected for the state, city and county is $228,780,825, and total recurring is $74,363,730. This unique ability to berth superyachts alongside immediate access to a helipad and seaplane terminal establishes Island Gardens as Miami’s exclusive destination that can be directly accessed by air, land or sea.

Miami Worldcenter: miamiworldcenter.com

Biscayne Bay National Park: nps.gov/bisc

Brickell City Centre: brickellcitycentre.com

Barnacle State Historic Site: luxegetaways.info/park3

Island Gardens & The Deck: islandgardens.com

Oleta River State Park: luxegetaways.info/park1

Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts: arshtcenter.org

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park: luxegetaways.info/park2

Renderings: Courtesy Island Gardens

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Photography: The Boca Raton Resort & Club

Special Feature Miami

MIAMI GETAWAYS: 5 REASONS TO VISIT

THE BOCA RATON RESORT & CLUB

BY DAMON M. BANKS Create your own story at The Boca Raton Resort & Club, and enjoy this ultimate beach getaway.

There are certain destinations that simply pull you into their world from the moment you step out of the car; where you find yourself forgetting about all of the stress and headaches of the outside world. The story begins here at The Boca Raton Resort & Club, A Waldorf Astoria Resort… a destination rich in history and traditions, offering some of the highest levels of amenities and services I have seen in some time by a staff eager to not only satisfy the requests and expectations of guests, but to exceed them. You must be either a Club member or resort guest to take advantage of the resort’s dining, activities and amenities – creating an unmistakable feeling of being at a private Club during your stay.

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The resort’s 80-year history and flawless management by the Waldorf Astoria combine to create a uniquely different kind of resort destination that is ideal for the entire family.

Entering the gates of the resort, Boca Raton is a destination that has a much more intimate feeling of ‘community’ than many of the other resort destinations – where members and vacationers come together seamlessly to enjoy this Florida escape. The name Mizner is everywhere around town, so it is no surprise to learn that this prestigious resort was designed by Addison Mizner himself.

A total of five very distinctive accommodation options offer a variety in terms of budget,

location, view, amenities and more. The Tower offers 27 stories of modern rooms and suites; The Cloisters are beautifully refurbished rooms in the historical portion of the hotel; The Boca Bungalows provide a community environment with residential-styled units; The Yacht Club is always a popular choice with sensational views (try to book a room with access to the Commodore Executive Level); and finally my personal favorite, the Beach Club rooms and suites provide the best of all worlds with direct access to the beach and multiple pools. Though there are many reasons to visit The Boca Raton Resort & Club, here are our top five reasons to plan your own getaway.

1.

501 East:

2.

Beach Club:

3.

Golf:

This is what resort dining is all about… enjoy classic American cuisine in a posh yet casual atmosphere.

They are best known for their burgers at lunch and dinner, but the steaks and seafood are superior to any restaurant in Boca Raton. Arrive hungry and be prepared for a feast (and take advantage of their extensive wine list). Ideal for a group, family or couple, this restaurant will certainly not disappoint!

This is where you can truly appreciate the level of services and amenities at the pools and beach. The private cabanas are not glamorous, but service is impeccable and you can have food and cocktails delivered at any time. Be sure to enjoy an amazing ice coffee from SNACK, which is next to the fitness center by the main pool; and visit OCEAN BAR upstairs for a drink on the terrace overlooking the pools and beach.

From the very first tee shot, there is just something special about this course; and it has just recently reopened after a total renovation that revamped the irrigation, grass, bunkers, practice facility and overall playability for golfers of all levels. Being one of the oldest courses in Florida, it has that old-school feel with mature trees and foliage that makes for a scenic round of golf. It is certainly not a long course, but is guaranteed to keep you on your toes at every shot.

4. Sea Level:

Imagine having your own king-size bed on the beach for the day while at the Beach Club – along with plush pillows, lush linens, personal beach attendant, refreshments throughout the day, complimentary hand and foot massages by a reflexologist, individual cell phone charging equipment, sunglass cleaning, a waterproof cellphone pouch, and an Aquavault safe to protect your belongings while out for a stroll or swim. This is the ultimate beach outing!

5.

The Spa: One of the larger spas found at resorts today, the Spa is an oasis of luxury with 44 treatment rooms and over-the-top men’s and women’s locker rooms, lounges and the opulent termes (wet rooms). I encourage those seeking an authentic spa journey to begin with their specialty 50-minute Ritual Bath.

Inquire about their Spa Packages and personalized services to take full advantage of the spa experience.

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Special Feature Miami

MIAMI GETAWAYS: 5 REASONS TO VISIT

THE BREAKERS Once you stay, you’ll understand…

BY DAMON M. BANKS

From the moment you arrive, The Breakers will impress the most discerning of guests with the amazing architecture, first-class services and endless amenities. With 140 acres of pristine acreage in the heart of Palm Beach, The Breakers has remained one of the most iconic properties in the United States for well over 100 years. After burning down twice in the early years, it was rebuilt to exceed the expectations of even the great Henry Flagler; who had a vision for the role that this hotel would play in the development and long-term growth of Palm Beach.

The continued excitement surrounding The Breakers Palm Beach is largely due to the dedication of the longstanding family’s ownership and determination to maintain the property’s integrity, and always looking to the future. $25 million has been invested annually in recent years for capital improvements and ongoing revitalization to preserve (and modernize) this monumental piece of Florida history.

The Breakers features 540 rooms and suites; 36 holes of championship golf; 10 Har-Tru tennis courts; luxury spa; a breathtaking oceanfront with a half-mile of private beach, Mediterranean-style beach club; four oceanfront pools; a Family Entertainment Center; eight distinctive restaurants and eight bars; and an array of on-site boutiques. Arriving to The Breakers, you immediately realize you are in a place unlike anywhere else. Though there are many reasons to visit The Breakers Palm Beach, here are our top five reasons to plan your own getaway.

THEBREAKERS.COM

1. Beach Club Bungalows The Beach Club and the multiple pools make a great retreat along the beach. The South Pool is a favorite because of the location and mix of ages relaxing in and around the pool: and these Bungalows are some of the best in Florida with a dedicated concierge and nice overall setup with seating inside and out – complete with a television inside, bathroom, shower and more.

(Ask for #25, when available!).

2. Flagler Club A “hotel-within-a-hotel,” Flagler Club provides an entirely new level of exclusivity for guests within these newly renovated 25 rooms and suites. The personalized team here goes above and beyond to cater to their guests from start to finish – all in a very glamorous and boutique setting. This experience is the best of both worlds: complete access to the resort and its amenities, then retreat to your private floor, replete with additional amenities and one-of-a-kind perks.

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3.

3. Flagler Steakhouse

4.

Though many of the dining options at The Breakers are fantastic, Flagler Steakhouse is simply a must-experience during the stay. Located down the picturesque palm-lined drive, this classic American chophouse is upstairs from the golf clubhouse, and provides a dynamic menu with exceptional service.

Enjoy the meal inside while dining under the dramatic beamed ceiling, or outside on the terrace while watching the golfers battle The Ocean Course.

4. Golf Golf is a ritual at The Breakers. The Ocean Course is on the property, and is historically significant as it was Florida’s first 18-hole course. About 10-miles away, The Breakers Rees JonesŽ Course is worthy of the time spent getting to the club. Both courses are only open to resort guests and members, so they both make you feel like you are a member for the day.

5.

5. The Spa: After a complete renovation, this new spa is perfection. Every detail is executed beautifully in a posh yet very comfortable environment. An extensive list of body, hair, nail and beauty services are available to guests, and everyone is encouraged to finish the spa experience on the exclusive spa terrace for a few added minutes of pure bliss. For best results, take advantage of the Signature Spa Suite Experience (for one, or two guests) with the specialty Tammy Fender or OSEA treatments.

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Adventure Travel Barge Cruises

Unforgettable Barge Cruises with Abercrombie & Kent A canal barge cruise is a trip back to a simpler time‌

BY DAM O N M . B AN KS

For more than 50 years now, many travelers in search of a unique travel experience that maintains focus on small groups and cultural immersion have looked to Abercrombie & Kent for a growing number of unforgettable getaways.

The idea of a personalized river cruise on a barge with your friends and family is not for everyone, but for those looking for something truly intimate that caters to groups often not exceeding six or eight guests, a barge cruise makes a very attractive way to see the world.

Who would have thought that barges and bespoke luxury could work so well together?

This June, Abercrombie & Kent has a very special offering for one fortunate group of twelve – offering an opportunity to experience villages, vineyards and more while navigating through Paris, Champagne and Alsace for two weeks. Admittedly, this is not an inexpensive getaway with friends or family, as it will cost an estimated $13,995, per person.

Though having Abercrombie & Kent in control means that these guests will have a grand tour of Paris; a cruise on the Marne River on the deluxe private barge, Panache; wine tastings, gourmet dining and chateau visits in Champagne; and then completed with an overland tour including a luxurious stay on the grounds of the Palace of Versailles.

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L'Art de Vivre in Burgundy Cruise along with views of the vineyards, while visiting medieval villages with half-timbered houses and other unique finds along the way. This cruise is recommended for those looking to also coordinate a family getaway, walking tours, golf and wine tastings. Hot air ballooning is a great option at this time of the year, providing the conditions are appropriate.

Starts at $4,490 ppdo luxegetaways.info/artdv

Enchanté in the South of France A gentle cruise along the Canal du Midi between Trèbes and Sallèles-d’Aude that provides guests with amazing views of lush vineyard scenery and charming villages along the way. This tour also provides a number of great land excursions for world-class cuisine, family outings, wine and/or olive oil tastings, walking tours and a round or two of unforgettable golf.

Starts at $5,990 ppdo luxegetaways.info/enchante

Renaissance in the Upper Loire Cruising along the Canal de Briare in the Upper Loire, guests find unique opportunities to tour a renowned family-run vineyard for an intimate wine tasting, or dine at one of the Michelin-starred restaurants. Hot air ballooning is a great option at this time of the year, providing the conditions are appropriate; as well as golf and family excursions being available along the way.

Starts at $6,750 ppdo luxegetaways.info/briare

La Nouvelle Etoile in Holland Always a favorite getaway, having an opportunity to experience the tulip season in Holland is something that everyone should see at least once in a lifetime. Beyond the flowers providing a blanket of color along the shores, guests enjoy cheese-tastings in Gouda and discover other unique land offerings along the way to get a true sense of the culture.

Photo: Abercrombie & Kent

Starts at $7,475 ppdo luxegetaways.info/etoile

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Adventure Travel Barge Cruises

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Chartering a barge is the perfect way to celebrate a milestone birthday or anniversary with family and friends.

eoffrey Kent was born to be a traveler; as he came into this world while his parents were on safari, and was raised on the family farm in Kenya. With that unmistakable sense of adventure in his blood, Kent became the first individual to motorbike between Kenya and Cape Town at age 16. Since founding Abercrombie & Kent with his parents, Kent's focus has always been to enable travelers to discover the world in a uniquely authentic and stylish manner.

Today, Abercrombie & Kent runs 52 full-time offices worldwide, staffed by more than 2,500 people. Its reputation allows Abercrombie & Kent travelers with private (sometimes exclusive) access to museums, archaeological sites and cultural attractions around the world.

“When it comes to experiencing Europe, a canal barge cruise is a trip back to a simpler time. The view out your cabin window is almost unchanged from the 19th century, with cars nowhere to be seen and many of the locks still operated by hand,” explains Abercrombie & Kent’s Founder, Chairman and CEO Geoffrey Kent. “Chartering a barge is the perfect way to celebrate a milestone birthday or anniversary with family and friends.

You travel at a slower pace, strolling through local markets, sampling the best local wines, and meeting artisanal food producers who respect traditions dating back several centuries.”

“This style of travel particularly appeals to those who appreciate farm-to-table cuisine and fine wines -many of which never leave France.

Share a gourmet experience on our Marco Polo Journey through villages and vineyards along the Marne aboard the intimate, six-cabin canal barge, ‘Panache.’ Enjoy private tastings from Champagne to Alsace, and savor meals at Michelin-starred restaurants.

Relax aboard your comfortable floating inn, and, when the mood strikes, take a complimentary bicycle to ride into a nearby village.”

Abercrombie & Kent www.abercrombiekent.com

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SPRING 2017 Photo: Abercrombie & Kent

Feature Cultural Immersion One of Portugal’s most historic towns is an easy day trip from Lisbon, and even more ideal when the locals open their homes to you…

BY MARK ORWOLL

ÉVORA Photography Courtesy Mark Orwall

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he feast spread before us was eye-popping in its beauty and variety. Goat cheese and lamb cheese, platters of prosciutto, purple and black olives, bowls of sweet green grapes, fresh figs, and chewy chunks of homemade bread.

Someone poured wine, a dry, robust, ruby-colored Herdade Dos Grous Tinto. A tureen of chilled Portuguese-style gazpacho, full of hand-cut tomatoes, cucumbers and peppers was set on the table while steam rose from a platter of freshly roasted baby potatoes, drizzled in olive oil. From the nearby kitchen floated the rich and savory fragrance of baked lamb coated lightly with red-pepper paste, garlic, and parsley.

Craig, one of my traveling companions, looked in amazement at the groaning board that was piled high with all of this food. He let out a wistful sigh and said, “This is what my dreams look like.”

architectural and historical attractions that have made the entire central core of this walled medieval city a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The lunch that came later that day would be the capper to a more-than-worthwhile side trip to this magical town.

Welcome to lunch at a private home in Évora, the historic capital of the Alentejo province of Portugal. Here the food is abundant, the history profuse, and the people are passionate about the good life. I came on a day trip from Lisbon (90 minutes by train to the west) to see the

Most visits to Évora begin at the brick-paved Praça do Giraldo, a handsome square dominated by the 16th-century Santo Antão Church, and lined by a long row of picturesque arcaded buildings housing shops and restaurants.

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My four companions and I were in the capable hands of Singulartrips, a bespoke tour company specializing in intimate tours of the Alentejo, which connects their guests with the charming and hospitable natives of the region. In our case, the local hosts were Nélia Martins and João Junqueira, landscape architects who met as students at Évora University, a local landmark from the 16th Century that is just down the street from this home that Nélia and João now share. João accompanied us on a walking tour of the historic center while Nélia prepared lunch.

Photography: Mark Orwall

Photography Evora Tourism

One of those eateries is Café Arcada (Praça do Giraldo 7), specializing in coffee and sweet tarts made of eggs and cheese, called queijadas. It is a terrific place to grab a power snack before starting the city walk.

The Romans put Évora on the cultural map beginning in the first century. Vestiges of their city walls still stand, as does one of their famous baths. Under Rome, the town became a bustling mercantile center. Those ancient times are best visualized at one of the city’s most prominent attractions, the Roman Temple that sits in the heart of the old town. The temple was nearly destroyed by the Visigoths in the fifth century, and was later used as a bank vault and even a butcher shop for the nearby cathedral.

ÉVORA FOREVER

Photography: Mark Orwall

But it was the 16th century in which Évora (indeed, all of Portugal) shone most brightly. The Age of Discovery and Portuguese mastery of the seas brought riches to the nation, and a consequent building boom of epic proportions. The Sé de Évora was the largest cathedral built in Portugal during the medieval times. Évora University was founded in 1599 and can still be visited today by tourists.

Another worthwhile visit is to the 1511 Graça Church, which is notable for its baroque façade. Toward the edge of the historic center is a massive stone aqueduct from the same period whose arched foundations are now home to little stores and residences.

Sensory overload is a phrase used a lot by visitors to Évora. That is why it was a pleasant change of pace to stroll down Rua Cinco de Outubro, a winding narrow lane full of souvenir shops, restaurants and galleries.

If you want to buy just one memento of Évora, buy something made from cork, one of the region’s main exports. You will find cork bowls and cork purses, cork caps and cork sunhats, cork postcards and cork sandals. If they could find a way to cook cork, they would probably sell cork snacks too.

UNESCO whc.unesco.org

As we gamboled through the tight streets and twisty lanes, the buildings’ picturesque red tile roofs, whitewashed facades, and the yellow-paint highlights surrounding the doors and windows entranced me.

We were assisted every step of the way by João, who finally looked at his wristwatch and said to us, “Time for lunch!”

The meal passed slowly and graciously, and was full of extra helpings, wine, and conversation. “In Alentejo, people take time to enjoy themselves, and to eat long meals,” João said. It was at that point that Nélia brought out the meal’s kicker – a sweet rice pudding topped with cinnamon and freshly cut melons on the side. But even dreams come to an end sometime.

We bid good-bye to our hosts and, with Eurail Passes in hand, made our way back to the train station for the return to Lisbon. “I think I’ll come back here one of these days,” said my buddy Craig. “I’d love to see more of the place.”

“

In Alentejo, people take time to enjoy themselves, and to eat long meals...

TR AVE L TI P

Évora is easily reached by train from Lisbon, and the train service is covered by a Eurail Pass. Singulartrips offers a variety of itineraries to explore the region. Prices for tours of Évora begin at about $65, depending on group size; there is an additional fee for meals with local hosts and/or transportation from Lisbon.

“Come back?” I responded. “I’m thinking of moving here!”

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LGBT Travel What’s Hot

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LGBT-Friendly Travel Destinations This Season

BY ADAM GROFFMAN

Spring is in the air, and it’s a great time of the year to explore LGBT-friendly cities that you might have not yet discovered.

Summertime might be the predictably “gay” travel season with LGBT Pride Month in June (and more LGBT pride festivals, parades and parties than you can shake your fist at during the summer), but there is no reason that the fun cannot start a bit early. Springtime is a great season to travel – partly because you will beat the

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summertime rush; and you can also score great deals during this bridge between winter when we are all bundled up by the fire at home, and summer when we find ourselves tanning on the beach. Here are our picks for some great LGBT-friendly destinations to visit this spring (or anytime you can plan your next getaway).

Photography: Adam Groffman

Photography: Adam Groffman

Berlin Springtime in Berlin is that special “moment in time” when the cold starts to dissipate, but before the city becomes overcrowded with tourists. There is no question that the best month in Berlin is always May — starting with the first of May when May Day festivals fill the city with activists and entertainers. This is most notable in Kreuzberg during the techno-grunge-rock MyFest, which is a celebration for freedom and equality. As the weather continues to warm and the flowers blossom, the city’s vibrant summertime energy emerges in a grand way — as evident by the people beginning to eat and drink outside on the terraces, and of course, the beginning of countless outdoor “open-air” festivals.

Most visitors to Berlin know about the city’s legendary nightlife, such as the hot techno clubs that never seem to go out of style. Berghain (Am Wriezener Bahnhof, 10243 Berlin) and Tresor (Köpenicker Straße 70, 10179 Berlin) will always draw a mix of tourists and locals, but at this time of the year, also look out for the alternative parties that are making waves among Berlin’s party-going locals. Cocktail d’Amore is a monthly party that takes place in Griessmühle (Sonnenallee 221, 12059 Berlin), which was launched

by Italian-Berlin duo Discodromo, and is an event where you can expect a lot of heavy beats in a highly sexualized and sensual environment – both indoors at the club, and in the garden.

During this time, make your way to Berlin’s best parks. The central Tiergarten is a great spot for biking or walking, and is home to the Berlin Zoo (Hardenbergplatz 8, 10787 Berlin) and a cozy beer garden, Café am Neuen See (Lichtensteinallee 2, 10787 Berlin). Just make sure to also visit some of the lesser-known sights within the park, such as the Memorial to the Murdered LGBT Victims of the Holocaust, and the series of statues celebrating German artists and poets like Chaucer and Goethe.

During the day, make sure to visit the art galleries and museums in Berlin’s city center. Take a stroll down Auguststraße in Mitte for a taste of Berlin’s best galleries, shops and dining. The KW Institute for Contemporary Art (Auguststraße 69, 10117 Berlin) runs regular exhibitions of international artists.

Across the street, the small Do You Read Me? (Auguststraße 28, 10117 Berlin) shop curates magazines and art books in a beautifully displayed setting. At the end of Auguststraße, the contemporary Jewish deli Mogg

(Auguststraße 11-13, 10117 Berlin) serves excellent lunches and dinners, but is probably most famous for their pastrami sandwich appropriately called “The Pastrami,” which is served with coleslaw and a pickle. Not far from these Berlin Mitte hotspots, Gorki Apartments (Weinbergsweg 25, 10119 Berlin) is a great place to sleep in a setting just like many of the Berlin locals.

These luxury rooms are furnished from flea markets and each has their own individual style (and named after fictional residents) – it is truly a unique Berlin experience.

Photography: Gorki Apartments

Berlin Tourism: visitberlin.de MyFest: myfest36.de Berlin Zoo: zoo-berlin.de Café am Neuen See: cafeamneuensee.de Berghain: berghain.de Tresor: tresorberlin.com Griessmühle: griessmuehle.de KW Institute for Contemporary Art: kw-berlin.de Do You Read Me: doyoureadme.de Mogg: moggmogg.com Gorki Apartments: gorkiapartments.com

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Dallas, Texas Dallas has grown to become a cosmopolitan city — one even with a bit of an edge — a far cry from its most famous pop culture reference, the outdated Dallas television series. With a world-class art scene and a rising culinary and cocktail reputation, Dallas is back on the map. And as a gay destination, Dallas has a bit of something for everyone.

The gay neighborhood of Oak Lawn is the historically gay area. Oak Lawn’s Cedar Springs Road is packed all weekend with LGBT revelers, whether to visit the LGBT thrift shop, Out of the Closet (3920 Cedar Springs Road – Dallas, TX 75219), for its vintage furniture; or to stop-in at Cedar Grove (4123 Cedar Springs Road – Dallas, TX 75219) for the monthly Drag Brunch.

At night, Oak Lawn comes alive with gay nightlife at places like the Round-Up Saloon (3912 Cedar Springs Road – Dallas, TX 75219), a gay cowboy bar where you can catch a honky-tonk, or learn how to square-dance (on weekends after midnight, however, it is just like every other gay club with a playlist of pop hits). Nearby, The 5-star hotel Mansion on Turtle Creek (2821 Turtle Creek Boulevard – Dallas, TX 75219) is a perfect getaway for a secluded and romantic holiday. The hotel is only steps away from the picturesque and pleasant Turtle Creek with its rolling green hills — a nice contrast from the perfectly- peach colored hotel.

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Outside of Oak Lawn, Dallas has a growing number of areas worth visiting. Start in the Arts District where you can enjoy an afternoon at the Nasher Sculpture Garden (2001 Flora Street – Dallas, TX 75201), which has a great museum shop too; and the Dallas Museum of Art (1717 N. Harwood Street – Dallas, TX 75201) is another great option (and is free to enter). Finish the day with dinner at the fine dining Pyramid Restaurant (1717 N. Akard Street – Dallas, TX 75201), where I strongly suggest that you try the pan-seared salmon. Delicious! Make sure to visit the Bishop Arts District where you can discover small art galleries and lifestyle shops like Ephiphany (412 N. Bishop Avenue – Dallas, TX 75208), which has separate shops for both men and women on opposite sides of the street. Pop into my favorite local chocolate shop, Dude Sweet Chocolate (408 W. Eighth Street – Dallas, TX 75208) for some fun chocolate mixes – my favorite is the Diwali Toffee. Any visitor to Oak Lawn has to visit several of the favorite hotspots that have maintained their popularity for a number of years now. Station 4 (3911 Cedar Springs Road – Dallas, TX 75219) is always the center of attention; JR’s (3923 Cedar Springs Road – Dallas, TX 75219) is an absolute icon in Dallas; and Sue Ellens (3014 Throckmorton Street – Dallas, TX 75219) is the favorite lesbian nightclub in the area.

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As a gay destination, Dallas has a bit of something for everyone

Photography: Turtle Creek Mansion

Photography: DallasCVB

LGBT Travel What’s Hot

Dallas Tourism: visitdallas.com Out of the Closet: outofthecloset.org

Mansion on Turtle Creek: luxegetaways.info/turtle

Epiphany: epiphanystores.com

Round-Up Saloon: roundupsaloon.com

Dude Sweet Chocolate: dudesweetchocolate.com

Dallas Museum of Art: dma.org

Nasher Sculpture Garden: nashersculpturecenter.org

Pyramid Restaurant: pyramidrestaurant.com

Sue Ellens: sueellensdallas.com

Station 4: station4dallas.com

JR’s: jrsdallas.com

Cedar Grove: cedargrove-dallas.com

Photography: Berns Hotel

Stockholm

Stockholm’s best attraction is simply the Swedish way of life.

There is the important cultural affair of afternoon coffee, the Swedish fika, where people gather for cozy and comforting conversation. Look for cafés in the trendy Södermalm area to visit, specifically in SoFo — a bohemian hub with great cafes, restaurants and shops, including Sivletto (Malmgårdsvägen 16-18,

116 38 Stockholm), which triples as a vintage clothing shop, barbershop and café. Grab a meal (or at least a drink) at the nearby Urban Deli (Hesselmans Torg, 131 54 Nacka), which is the place to be seen in Stockholm (so dress appropriately!).

Also in springtime, the warmweather only Malarpaviljongen (Norr Mälarstrand 64, 112 35 Stockholm) opens for the season beginning April 1, which sits atop a floating collection of boats with a lovely gazebo. Try the rose wines, or grab a classic Swedish meal and enjoy the skyline views. The owners employ LGBT immigrants and donate regularly to their own Rainbow Fund to support local LGBT initiatives. In the evenings, take yourself to the Berns Hotel (Näckströmsgatan 8, 111 47 Stockholm) — a luxurious design hotel that also houses several must-visit great nightclubs and restaurants. As the unofficial gay hotel of the city, Berns regularly hosts musicians and celebrities, plus they sponsor many of Stockholm’s hottest events like Fashion Week.

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© Can Stock Photo / osons

As one of the world's most gay-friendly cities, and one with a reputation of simply being "cool," there is much more to Sweden than just meatballs. From some of the world's best fashion to trendy restaurants and stores with underground secret barbershops, Stockholm is always full of surprises. While the city turns unbearably dark in the winter, Stockholm sheds its winter look in the springtime. Most notable is Kungsträdgården, the city’s central park, where a row of blooming cherry blossom trees can be seen in all their glory. Nearby, the Opera House (Gustav Adolfs torg 2, 103 22 Stockholm) and Royal Palace provide the perfect backdrop for those Instagram snaps.

One of the world's most gay-friendly cities Stockholm Tourism: visitstockholm.com

Royal Swedish Opera: operan.se

Kungsträdgården: stockholm.se/kungstradgarden

Berns Hotel: berns.se

Stockholm Palace / The Royal Palace: kungahuset.se/kungligaslottet

Sivletto: sivletto.com

Malarpaviljongen: malarpaviljongen.se

Urban Deli: urbandeli.org

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A Family’s Guide to Experiencing Singapore

Photography: Four Seasons Singapore

Family Travel Singapore

BY KATIE DILLON

Small-but-mighty, Singapore is truly one of the greatest family vacation destinations in the world. I say this having enjoyed the city-state many times on holiday before becoming a parent.

However, I find that I love it even more now with my daughter in tow. Where else can you immerse in a colorful melting pot of Malay, British, Indian and Chinese cultures all in one place, or explore futuristic gardens and remnants of a primary rainforest at the same time? Then, there is the mind-blowing food (leave the diet at home); a kid-friendly airport; world-class wildlife; and other theme parks, modern conveniences and locals who have always doted on my little redheaded girl. We never, ever run out of things to do Singapore, and I miss it dearly when we are away.

WHERE TO STAY The Ritz-Carlton Millenia, Singapore at Marina Bay has some of the largest rooms and suites in town; and have unobstructed views of the Bay, Singapore River and the city skyline. Club level rooms provide access to five daily food presentations at The Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge – a very handy convenience with kids in tow, in addition to complimentary car service to nearby activities.

Photography: Four Seasons

Immerse your entire family into the sensational sights, sounds and tastes that are waiting to be discovered in Singapore.

Four Seasons Hotel Singapore is on a peaceful, tree-lined street that is just steps from Orchard Road – arguably Asia’s most famous shopping street, and the city’s hub of entertainment. Kids particularly love the rooftop pool with toys and a special poolside menu just for them, a welcome amenity, and complimentary hand consoles and DVDs. Sunday brunch in Singapore is legendary, and Four Seasons hosts one of the best with a supervised Playland complete with bouncy castle, arts and crafts, face painting and more to entertain kids while adults leisurely make their way through the multiple stations.

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Photography: Capella Singapore

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Photography: Ritz-Carlton

Capella Singapore is a luxury resort on Sentosa Island that faces the South China Sea, where modern meets Colonial. Kids love swimming pools, and Capella has three, in addition to private plunge pools in its manor and villa accommodations.

The villas provide one or two separate bedrooms and living areas, granting the comforts of home that families often crave while traveling. This is a great choice for family vacations centered around the various activities on Sentosa Island.

WHERE TO EAT Eating is the unofficial sport of Singapore. Locals take their food seriously so plan to enjoy every last bite, and hit the treadmill later. It is the ultimate place to let kids travel through their taste buds (with noodles, rice, fruit and other kid-friendly foods easy to find), as you never know what flavors they might discover, and quickly come to love.

Despite its seemingly regional name, Chinatown Food Street, is a fantastic place to sample the best of Singapore’s multicultural cuisine at hawker stalls, kiosks and restaurants. Here, it is easy to source local favorites including satays, oyster omelettes, kway teow, sambal stingray, Indian curries and much more. A recent renovation added a cooling system and roof so it is now enjoyable all-day, everyday.

THINGS TO DO Over the years, Sentosa Island has developed into one of the world’s greatest playgrounds, which still brings together the leisure activities of pretty white sand beaches and heritage walks with the thrills of famous theme parks. Universal Studios (be sure to purchase tickets in advance to avoid disappointment) sprinkles movie-themed attractions and rides throughout seven zones, and offers VIP tours for those seeking red carpet treatment. “Edutainment” here includes the newly opened Kidzania where kids role-play various adult careers throughout a state-of-the-art, kid-sized city, and S.E.A. Aquarium, which showcases Asia’s maritime heritage with over 100,000 marine animals. Families can also escape the heat at the Adventure Cove Waterpark, ride a luge or Segway, watch a myriad of performances and so much more on Sentosa Island.

The conservation-minded Wildlife Reserves Singapore oversees four wildlife parks that are each worthy of a visit if time permits. The Singapore Zoo is famous for its stunning landscape and open exhibits where animals roam safely yet a bit more freely than at other zoos around the world. Moats and other hidden barriers separate visitors, but do not be surprised to see an orangutan swinging high above walkways, or spot a wallaby hopping across a path right in front of you.

Highlights here include breakfast with orangutans and multiple opportunities to feed resident animals throughout the day. The Night Safari, the world’s first nocturnal zoo, has wildlife enclosures lit to resemble moonlight. After entering, immediately line up for the 40-minute guided tram tour (the best way to kick-off a visit) through the park’s six geographical zones. Look also into the Bird’s Eye Tour at Jurong Bird Park where a personal guide leads visitors on a private tour of the park, including the popular Lory feeding and Waterfall Aviary that is home to over 600 free-flying birds [Lories are small and very bright colored parrots with a unique brush-like tongue, which allows them to remove pollen and nectar from flower blossoms].

Additionally, the new River Safari Park focuses on wildlife in and around the world’s major rivers, including Singapore’s two giant pandas: Kai Kai and Jia Jia.

If your kids are adventurous eaters, chili crab is another must-try dish.

Jumbo Seafood has multiple outlets that serve it in addition to a delicious black pepper crab.

Food for Thought now has two locations in Singapore. The restaurant inside the Singapore Botanical Gardens was designed to embrace its stunning surroundings; as well as the importance of community, family and eco-consciousness. It has a kids’ play area conveniently placed near dining tables outside and a menu that encompasses local favorites and Western options like scrambled eggs, pulled pork burgers and linguine.

Photography: Singapore Tourism Board

Photography: Capella Singapore

Hainanese Chicken rice is the national dish of Singapore, and the most famous stall for it is arguably Tian Tian Chicken Rice in Maxwell Food Centre. This popular hawker centre has over 100 stalls so the odds of finding something to satisfy the cravings of kids and adults here are high.

You have probably seen photos of the illuminated steel Supertree Grove at Gardens by the Bay, and these futuristic trees are worth a visit – especially during the evening light show. From Marina Bay, take the Helix Bridge to the Singapore Flyer observation wheel for more panoramic views over the city-state. Near here awaits another popular family favorite, DUCKTours, which takes riders around Singapore on WWII amphibious bus-boats through land and water.

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HOTEL FAMILY PACKAGES Capella: Family Stay and Play Revel in island luxury surrounded by lush tropical gardens, while exploring a kaleidoscope of activities available right at your doorstep. Wind down in the comfort of their spacious rooms watching movies with your favorite theater snacks for the ultimate vacation experience.

Package includes: Daily breakfast at The Knolls for up to two adults and two children (age 11 and below), or 3 adults Choice of Universal Studio Singapore tickets or Sentosa Fun Passes - Play 5, for up to two adults and two children (age 4 to 12 years old) or 3 adults Evening movie popcorn amenity once per stay Valid for stays until December 22, 2017

Photography: Singapore Tourism Board

Four Seasons Hotel Singapore: Family Package In addition to a pool on the 20th floor that the kids are sure to love, parents enjoy 30% off a second room for the children. Other amenities that can be arranged for the younger members of the family include: A welcome amenity for the youngest guests Child-size bathrobes and slippers Complimentary toiletries for babies and children Children’s menus in the restaurants, in-room dining and Sunday brunch featuring a kids’ buffet menu and playland “Kids Activities Around Town” brochure available at the Concierge Movies and cartoon DVD selections and hand consoles Crib set-up with infant care amenities, including toiletries set with bathtub, bottle sterilizer/warmer, and more

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Family Travel Singapore Four Seasons Hotel Singapore fourseasons.com/singapore Family Package luxegetaways.info/4sfamily Capella Singapore capellahotels.com/singapore Family Stay and Play luxegetaways.info/capella The Ritz-Carlton Millenia Singapore luxegetaways.info/ritz-si Ritz Kids Safari Adventures luxegetaways.info/ritz-kids Sentosa Island sentosa.com Adventure Cove Waterpark luxegetaways.info/cove Wildlife Reserves Singapore wrs.com.sg The Night Safari nightsafari.com.sg Photography: Singapore Tourism Board

The Ritz Kids Night Safari seeks to cultivate the spirit of the great outdoors in young children, and cater to their inquisitiveness, creativity and thirst for new adventures. From the moment you check-in, this immersive program will take the little ones on an adventure where they will be delighted to discover a sleeping tent pitched in the room, equipped with a night lamp, an edible turndown amenity, a Ritz-Carlton lion beanie and an engaging activity book for an in-room camping experience.

Package includes: Overnight accommodation in a Premier Suite Daily buffet breakfast for two adults, and two children Ritz Kids Night Safari sleeping tent throughout your stay

EAT AS THE LOCALS EAT Food is one thing that unites the otherwise multicultural nation, and it is so important to the Singaporean way of life that, "Have you eaten?" is a common way to greet people. While the list of must-try food is long, these are among the most popular.

Hainanese Chicken Rice: Poached chicken accompanies rice cooked in chicken stock and is usually paired with a small bowl of chicken stock and a variety of small condiments (chili sauce, fresh ginger and/or dark soy sauce).

Chili Crab: It is very common to eat this popular and not-too-spicy dish of mud crabs stir fried in a slightly thick tomato and chili sauce by hand.

Noodles: Try Char Kway Teow, flat rice noodles stir-fried in dark soy sauce with prawns, cockles, beansprouts, chives and often includes Chinese sausage with a mixture of other vegetables.

River Safari Park riversafari.com.sg Gardens by the Bay gardensbythebay.com.sg

Š Can Stock Photo / szefei

The Ritz-Carlton Millenia: Ritz Kids Safari Adventures

Jurong Bird Park birdpark.com.sg

Food for Thought foodforthought.com.sg Singapore Flyer singaporeflyer.com Chinatown Food Street chinatownfoodstreet.sg Maxwell Food Centre luxegetaways.info/maxwell DUCKTours ducktours.com.sg Jumbo Seafood jumboseafood.com.sg The Singapore Zoo zoo.com.sg

Satay: This kid-friendly favorite typically features chicken, beef, mutton or tripe on a skewer; and is usually served with a side of peanut sauce, cucumber and onion.

Ritz Kids amenities include: Specially prepared edible turndown amenity Children activities on weekends Daily ice cream pass Ritz Kids birthday surprise (for birthdays within stay duration)

LUX EG E TAWAYS.C OM Photography: Four Seasons Singapore

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BY PRISCILLA PILON

AMERICA’S CUP 2017 SAILS INTO BERMUDA THIS MAY The eyes of the world will be fixed on Bermuda this May 26th – June 27th, as the best sailors with the fastest boats battle until the end to take home this prestigious trophy.

Photography: ORACLE TEAM USA - Sam Greenfield

This year, the world’s best sailors will compete for the 35th America’s Cup trophy – the oldest prize in international sports history dating back to 1851. For the first time in the competition’s history, Bermuda’s Great Sound will be the location for this year’s spectacular event presented by Louis Vuitton. For the past 160 years, this intense international yachting competition has given rise to long-lasting and passionate rivalries. The United States held the longest winning run with an impressive 132-year streak before a crushing defeat by the Australians in 1983.

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THE RACE

THE COMPETITORS

THE VENUE

Oracle Team USA are the defending champions from 2010 and 2013, and are looking for a three-peat win against stiff competition from challengers Artemus Racing, Emirates Team New Zealand, Groupama Team France, Land Rover BAR, and SoftBank Team Japan. The 35th America’s Cup syndicate promises that viewers will see the fastest boats ever (hydrofoils, known as daggerboards minimize the drag, and lift the hulls out of the water). At speeds exceeding 50 miles per hour, the sport is also attracting new fans in recent years who are fascinated by the “danger” element alone.

The skipper and crew train like madmen – better, fitter and stronger are the goals for each syndicate member. Rome Kirby, a tactician for Oracle Team USA says the crew is currently working out twice daily in the gym (morning lifts for an hour, and an hour of cardio in the afternoon) in addition to sailing four hours per day. Kirby adds, “It’s different every week, but is usually six days a week. However, the last two weeks have been seven days a week. If I'm not too tired from the week of training I enjoy spearfishing, kiteboarding or surfing.” On those rare “free” days, Kirby favors Horseshoe Bay as his preferred beach, and the Pearl Restaurant for great eats.

The racecourse is stadium sailing in Bermuda’s Great Sound. Official spectator boats will be in the on-water spectator areas, and the finish line will be visible on land from the bustling America’s Cup Village at the Royal Naval Dockyard.

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Bermuda itself is a mere 21 square miles made up of 181 tiny islands. Naturally a country with ever-present wind, clear blue water and deep channels is a perfect vacation spot for sailing enthusiasts. Sailors love this place!

SPort America’s Cup Bermuda Tourism Authority www.gotobermuda.com

Bermuda Goslings Rum www.goslingsrum.com

America’s Cup Village www.americascup.com

Royal Naval Dockyard Ireland Island North, Bermuda www.dockyardbermuda.com

Pearl Restaurant 87 Front St. Hamilton HM 11, Bermuda

Miles of coastline with pink sandy beaches are spread around the main island, and reachable by taxi, bus or moped. Surfing, paddle boarding, snorkeling, wind surfing, kayaking and cliff-diving are but a few of the local activities that visitors enjoy.

Bermudians love a great party. The America’s Cup Village will host daily activities centered around the races, but will also have entertainment geared towards visitors who are simply seeking an opportunity to become better acquainted with the beautiful island.

Surrounding the area of Hamilton are dozens of unique shops, restaurants and bars. There are two favorite beverages on the islands. Bermuda’s own Gosling’s Rum is famous for the sailors’ legendary Dark ‘N’ Stormy cocktail. Start with a tall glass filled

Swizzle Inn 3 Blue Hole Hill, CR 04, Bermuda www.swizzleinn.com

with ice, then add Gosling’s Stormy Ginger Beer and finally pour in Gosling’s Black Seal Rum. Stirring this concoction creates the illusion of a storm cloud. Hearty sailors fear, but secretly love a good storm – and this drink is no exception. The other libation adored by all is the Bermuda Rum Swizzle served and consumed in large quantities at the original Swizzle Inn near the airport. Many sailors and tourists alike have resembled the local saying, “Swizzle Inn, stagger out” so have fun, but be forewarned and plan your taxi ride home ahead of time.

Tip: There are no rental cars for tourists on the island. The best ways to get around are via the bus system that runs different routes on loops and is quite convenient, or taxicabs. You can book a ride with a taxi via the online app, Hitch. (hitch.bm)

Photography: Bermuda Tourism

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Couples Travel Romantic Getaways

The Ultimate

Romantic Getaways

BY MIC HE LLE M . W IN N E R

Photography: Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort

When starting to plan for your next romantic getaway, we like to know that you can look beyond the standard options out there and discover unique travel experiences that you can share with your loved ones. For the spring travel season, we have uncovered three very distinctive getaway opportunities that we know you will love.

1. Fiji: Unplug and Unwind at Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort Looking for a romantic South Pacific vacation getaway far from the rest of the world? We suggest the award-winning, five-star resort on the island of Vanua Levu. And yes, here you can enjoy a romantic vacation with the kids tagging along.

Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort’s 25 spacious individual bures (Fijian word for a wood-and-straw hut/cabin) are traditional thatched Fijian guestrooms with private decks and ocean or garden views. Want to unplug? There are no in-room telephones or televisions. Want something grand?

The Villa is a luxurious bure that features a master suite, private indoor/outdoor patio with infinity pool, Jacuzzi tub, waterfall and outdoor showers totaling more than 2,000 square feet (610 square meters).

The Cousteau family members are pioneers in earth and ocean conservation. Located in a marine protected area, the resort practices recycling and composting, the utilization of low energy lighting, solar panels on water heaters, and uses environmentally friendly chemicals in the laundry and kitchen. The construction timber comes from certified-renewable forests, and the restaurant menu does not include reef fish or farmed prawns.

The seas provide the fish served for dinner, the trees produce coconuts, rainwater flows from the tap in the bures, and an organic garden grows food for the table. Pineapple, mango, papaya, coconut, and guava are all part of the edible landscaping.

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Want to jump-start your relaxation? Enjoy your spa treatments in your bure, or in the resort’s beachside spa bures. Desire an active vacation or enjoy exploring? Here, you can get active and try snorkeling, hiking, kayaking, tennis, volleyball, excursions to a tropical rainforest and world-class scuba diving.

Kids will love it here! The Bula Club is a complimentary children’s program with a schedule of fun activities for toddlers to adolescents. The fun is endless with rock pool exploration, hiking and glass-bottom boat excursions with the resort’s full-time Fijian naturalist/marine biologist, Johnny Singh. The Lei Lei Bula Club Program is for children up to the age of five; the Marau Bula Club Program is for ages 6 to 12; and every child under the age of five is assigned to a designated nanny (at a ratio of 1:1) for their entire stay at no extra charge. Parents rejoice!

Why is Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort a good value?

In addition to the Bula Club, there is also complimentary morning yoga, all meals, bottled non-alcoholic beverages, specialty tea and coffee, Wi-Fi, most activities and round-trip transportation between the resort and Savusavu Airport. Each week guests can also enjoy the Lovo, a traditional Fijian feast cooked in the resort’s ground oven and served buffet style. fijiresort.com

When it comes time to begin planning your next romantic getaway with your partner, LuxeGetaways has uncovered three unique options in Fiji, Hawaii and Greece.

Photography: Ko a Kea Hotel and Resort

2. Hawaii: Experience Old Hawaii at Ko`a Kea Hotel & Resort The Poipu Beach area on Kaua’i has the distinction of offering endless days of sunshine, powdery sand beaches, abundant marine life, dramatic lava cliffs, varying accommodation types and great local food. It is the perfect beach getaway; and in the middle of everything, Ko’a Kea Hotel & Resort is a little secret LuxeGetaways wants to share with you.

Longing for a quiet stay in a smaller resort with that “old Hawaii” feel and design, while enjoying all the desired modern amenities? Ko’a Kea is the place for you.

The low-rise grouping of buildings mandated by Kaua’i law not to be taller than the tallest coconut tree, are only steps from the ocean. Clustered around a saltwater swimming pool replete with thatched hut sit-down bar, the 121 spacious accommodations sparkle with island inspired contemporary design.

The reason a place like Ko'a Kea still exists is that it was the former Poipu Beach Hotel. It was a favorite of kama'inas (local Hawaii residents) that was built in the 1960's – the last decade before the mega resorts came to Hawaii. Devastated by hurricane Iniki in 1992, it sat deteriorating for years until a new owner rebuilt it using the same footprint. After another change of hands (and another major renovation), this boutique hotel now perfectly recaptures the charm of yesteryear.

Tip: Oceanfront Suites are the best solutions if you want to feel like you live in Hawaii. They have a spacious bedroom, separate living room, wide oceanfront lanai with a chaise lounge, a huge bathroom with both a shower and large soaking tub made for two (all other rooms only have showers).

The Spa at Ko’a Kea offers romantic in-suite baths for couples that use local salt, clay, flowers, herbs and exotic nut oils. During the whale migration, the suites also come equipped with a telescope for spotting humpback whales as they migrate to Kaua’i for breeding. For this room type, there is a “Suite Escapes” package offered that includes a complimentary fourth night, daily breakfast for two and waived resort fee.

The free fourth night is perfect since you will want to stay as long as possible! meritagecollection.com/koakea

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Couples Travel Romantic Getaways

3. Greece: Feel Right at Home at Elia Suites Eratini Most travelers visiting Greece are familiar with two places: Athens and Santorini. But there is a whole country to explore, and you should make it a priority to do so. After you arrive to Athens airport, it is easiest to rent a car. In less than 3 hours you will be in the seaside village of Eratini – and less than a mile down the road is Elia Suites, an elegantly chic (but casual) property with the most divinely talented owners.

Elia Suites was “born” as the sun was setting one day in 2009, according to owner Anna Karabellou.

“We were lying on the beach late in the afternoon, enchanted by the purple skies. I thought the view was something that everyone should see so I grabbed a napkin and sketched how the houses would be built in order for every guest to enjoy this view – it all started here with no architects or training; but with pure inspiration in that moment.”

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Walking from your luxurious little house towards Aura Beach, you will discover Aura Café, which is a fanciful lounging area with furniture groupings, exotic plants and large art pieces. Anna and Panos live on the property so they think of this as simply being an extension of their living room.

They offer coffee, breakfast snacks and drinks (and soon their own in-house chef will provide “fresh delicacies from the sea” she tells LuxeGetaways).

Elia Suites is open year-round so you can enjoy the ski season in Arachova less than an hour away, or have fun in the sun. Katina is a favorite restaurant across the sea in Eratini Village, which has the freshest fish and seafood. And if you are lucky, Yiayia (grandmother) will come out of the kitchen and give you a kiss. For the adventurous cooks, there are amazing markets filled with fresh seafood and ingredients to inspire your next great dish.

Here, you are just part of the family… a very cool family. Elia (which means olives) Suites is on Anna’s family land, so it is quite precious to her.

She explains, “I spent my childhood summer holidays here – I love this place and used to play hide and seek among the olive trees with my friends, so I try to provide everything I can to inspire the same sense of being carefree to my guests.”

If a truly relaxing stay in a laid-back beachfront location with spectacular surroundings interests you, book immediately. There are only a few houses at Elia Suites, and word is spreading fast.

Tip: It is best to email a.karabellou@gmail.com for reservations. For a special treat, ask Anna to also arrange a day cruise to the uninhabited eliasuites.gr islands in the area.

© Can Stock Photo / Kartouchken

Photography: Elia Suites

When planning your next business trip or executive retreat, selecting an urban spa/hotel can be a life changer.

Fortunately, the luxury travel consultants at CIRE Travel work with a collection of some of the most desirable and distinguished properties that are ideal for any CEO that values active luxury, and the wellness lifestyle. In addition to world-class spa services and body treatments, these hotels also offer wellness menus that cater to healthy eating, as well as more specific lifestyle menus such as gluten-free, local and vegan. Additional perks can include services and amenities to help you sleep better, work out smarter or even have less stress in your everyday routines.

Eric Hrubant CIRE Travel | (212) 339-2917 ciretravel.com

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This hotel, in the heart of London, is an exclusive sanctuary complete with a wellbeing center – called Akasha – offering classes on nutrition, meditation, reiki and, of course, massage.

Photography: Hotel Cafe Royal

68 Regent Street, London hotelcaferoyal.com

6801 Collins Avenue, Miami carillonhotel.com Carillon Miami offers an integrative approach to wellness in a grand way. The wellness space is set in a luxurious multi-story 70,000 square foot indoor/out space with views of the Atlantic Ocean and cutting edge technology.

Photography: Carillon Miami

2. CARILLON MIAMI WELLNESS RESORT

3. CONSERVATORIUM HOTEL Van Baerlestraat 27, Amsterdam conservatoriumhotel.com Much like their sister hotel in London (Hotel Café Royal), Conservatorium is home to the amazing Akasha Holistic Wellbeing Centre that has the best gym in Amsterdam, indulgent therapies and treatments, and even a private Hamman.

Photography: Conservatorium Hotel

The term “Wellness” is one seen a lot these days, so Eric wanted to further explore this topic, while also highlighting five of his favorite wellness hotel and resort destinations. What do you think of when you hear the term “Wellness Travel”? Perhaps a long weekend at a luxury spa, or maybe a week being pampered at an exclusive Caribbean resort? What if you could incorporate “Wellness” into your next business trip?

What if you could actually feel invigorated during your frequent business travel?

1. HOTEL CAFÉ ROYAL

4. MONTAGE BEVERLY HILLS 225 North Canon Drive, Beverly Hills montagehotels.com/beverlyhills Luxury services and amazing spas are expected in Beverly Hills, but Montage’s mineral wellness pool under the atrium is an absolute must-experience, as are the state-of-the-art diamond facials, holistic wellness therapies, and cutting edge fitness classes.

Photography: Montage Beverly Hills

Eric Hrubant is recognized for his passionate approach to his work within the travel industry. As a trained social worker, he now uses these skills to take the stress out of the travel process – making travel easier and more enjoyable for his clients. Being able to know when a flight is cancelled and proactively work to get his client on an alternate flight (often with a good seat or upgrade) is his specialty. Eric understands that everyone works really hard; and that in today’s world, having a travel professional as a dedicated ally is essential for everyone’s sanity, and the bottom line.

Here are Eric’s favorite urban wellness hotels:

5. THE PENINSULA BANGKOK 333 Charoennakorn Road, Bangkok bangkok.peninsula.com Bangkok can be a shock to your senses, but The Peninsula Bangkok is the perfect hotel for business or vacation travel. The Peninsula may be in the heart of the city, but the pool, tennis courts and spa make it feel like you are at a peaceful resort.

Photography: Peninsula Bangkok

BY DAMON M. BANKS

Eric Hrubant of CIRE Travel Explores Wellness Travel Options

In addition to world-class spa services and body treatments, these hotels also offer wellness menus that cater to healthy eating, as well as more specific lifestyle menus such as gluten-free, local and vegan.

Adventure Travel Extreme Experiences To some, a vacation is not a vacation unless it involves something truly death-defying or at the very least, adrenaline producing — and we are not talking about random roller coasters at your favorite theme park. Think more along the lines of bungee jumping into an active volcano, or free-falling 230 feet with no safety harnesses, or maybe even sleeping hundreds of feet in the air while perched on the side of a mountain. Basically, a lot of activities that involve signing waivers for in-case-of-death scenarios. Sound intriguing? We think so too. That is why LuxeGetaways and Travel Supermarket painstakingly uncovered the top ten adrenaline-junky dream experiences for your next getaway.

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Photography: Macau Tower

Extreme Adventure

Travel Experiences

BY SHELBIE LANDRY

“Obviously, some of these adventures are not for the faint-hearted,” adds Emma Coulthurst from Travel Supermarket. “But sometimes it’s good to get a little bit out of your comfort zone; and one thing is for sure you’ll definitely have a holiday to remember!” travelsupermarket.com LUX EG E TAWAYS.C OM

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1.

The World’s Fastest Zip Line North Wales, UK $75 USD Aptly named “Velocity”, Zip World’s famous zip line is not only the longest in Europe, but also the fastest in the world! Zippers can test their nerve on the “Little Zipper” before tackling the “Big Top of Velocity” and the “Big Zipper,” which often reach speeds of more than 100 mph! The entire course takes a little over two hours to complete, all while enjoying some truly stunning views. luxegetaways.info/velocity

The World’s Highest SCAD Free Fall Soweto, South Africa $25 USD

2.

3.

Forget bungee jumping! The SCAD Free Fall at Orlando Towers allows adrenaline seekers to simply lean back and fall… over 230 feet with only a giant safety-net waiting below. As the highest free fall experience (and the only one of its kind), this 330-foot hollow tower features a harness system with a quick release, ready to send free fallers barreling toward the suspended catch air device (SCAD) at speeds of more than 60 mph, all on the count of 5, 4, 3, 2, 1… luxegetaways.info/scad

Storm Chasing in Tornado Alley Denver, Colorado $2,300 USD Welcome to Storm Chasing Adventures Tours, the closest Helen Hunt and Bill Paxton wannabe’s can get to their own real life Twister.

Offering six-day tours across the Great Plains, also known as Tornado Alley, these tours feature comfortable chase vehicles equipped with high-resolution radar software and communication equipment perfect for tracking down super cells. Regularly used by news crews and filmmakers, Storm Chasing Adventures Tours promises to put guests up close and personal to the tornado action! stormchasing.com

Swing Over Victoria Falls Victoria Falls, Zambia $90 USD

4.

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Swings are not just for children these days. The Gorge Swing at Victoria Falls measures in at just over 300 feet long, and sits nearly 400 feet above the water. Daring jumpers endure a 230 foot free fall before being caught and swung across the width of the gorge — a stunning 1000 feet across. Not ready to take the leap solo? The Gorge Swings also offers a tandem option to swing alongside your fearless friends. luxegetaways.info/gorgeswing

5.

Speed Riding in the French Alps

6.

French Alps $100 USD As the newest sport to reach the French Alps, speed riding combines the athleticism of skiing with the areal bonuses of paragliding. Recommended for confident skiers, speed riding allows skiers to reach speeds up to 90 miles an hour in an off-piste location designated for speed riding. With the easily steerable mini-sail, speed riders can “fly” down the mountainside at their own pace and skill level, making outrageous jumps before floating back down to the slopes. luxegetaways.info/chamonix

Roller Coaster Through the Alps Mieders, Austria $10 USD Mieders Alpine Rollercoaster offers views unlike any other while still catering to those looking for a thrill ride. Surrounded by a wooded mountain forest, this one-and-a-half mile track takes riders through 40 hairpin turns and a 2,000-foot drop, reaching speeds upwards of 25 mph. For the faint of heart just wanting to enjoy the view, each individual coaster car can be speed controlled for a comfortable (or exhilarating) ride down the mountainside. luxegetaways.info/mieders

The World’s Highest Bungee Jump

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Bungee Jump into a Volcano Pucón, Chile $16,000 USD Hurling someone into a pit of fire as they dangle from a helicopter by a bungee cord? All in a days work for the guys of Bungee.com. As perhaps the world’s most expensive bungee jump, the full experience includes a bungee dip into Villarrica Volcano (still active) from the skid of a helicopter, one day whitewater rafting, one day enjoying the hot springs, and accommodations at a five-star resort. luxegetaways.info/bungee-chile

10.

Cliff Camping Estes Park, Colorado $1200 USD

9.

Macau, China $437 USD At the AJ Hackett Macau Tower, bungee jumping is not just an amusement park thrill ride…it is a Guinness World Record breaking bungee jumping experience! Measuring in at 764 feet, the tower sends jumpers into a true free fall for four to five seconds before catching them 100 feet from the ground and bouncing them back into mid-air. And for those brave enough to attempt a second leap, the Macau Tower includes special rates to take the plunge again. luxegetaways.info/bungee-macau

Crash and Splash Snowdonia, Wales $20 USD/ hour Challenge friends and family to a watery obstacle course battle at the Surf Snowdonia Adventure Parc.

Complete with giant spinning balls, monkey bars, climbing wall, balance beam and rope-bridge, competitors can star in their own version of “Wipeout”. To finish off the competition, the group will enjoy launching their friends from an inflatable human catapult known as “the blob.” And for those wanting to finish off the course on a winning streak, the whole group can attempt to break the “blobber” launch record, set at 72 feet! luxegetaways.info/snowdonia

While there are several options for some afternoon cliff stays, the real thrill of cliff camping is an overnight stay suspended hundreds of feet off the ground. A skilled guide teaches climbers the basics of climbing before leading them up the side of the mountain to set up their “portaledge” for the evening. Climbers can enjoy a magnificent dinner view before crawling into their sleeping bags for a dangerous nights sleep. luxegetaways.info/estes

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Timepieces Limited Edition

BY DA MO N M. B A N K S

INTRODUCING THE CHRONOSWISS REGULATOR Alfa Romeo Quadrifoglio Edition A CONVERGENCE OF ENG INEER ING AND EMOTION…

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Here is your chance to redline your personal style with the Alfa Romeo Quadrifoglio Edition Regulator timepiece from Chronoswiss. Bearing the iconic Quadrifoglio badge, this timepiece embodies the same attention to performance, style and craftsmanship as the legendary racing-class of Alfa Romeo it commemorates. Distinguished by the carbon fiber face, luxurious calfskin leather band and clover-leaf symbol, this limited edition timepiece will enhance the style of any true Alfisti. Only 100 of these will be manufactured, so here is a unique opportunity to own something truly special.

From the very beginning, Chronoswiss has always manufactured high quality Swiss made watches. As a pioneer of the renaissance of mechanical timepieces, Chronoswiss is one of the few watch brands using only mechanical movements. Located in Lucerne, Switzerland, the House of Chronoswiss manufactures only 4,000 timepieces annually, making each one a passionate project of technical precision.” alfaromeo.chronoswiss.com

With an unmistakable elegance, the aerodynamic lines and race inspired stance of the Giulia are a mix of pure power and ingenuity. Yet beneath all this beauty lie carefully selected materials that ensure its near-perfect weight distribution. It is a calculated harmony of engineering that fuels responsiveness and stirs emotions, within a groundbreaking new sports sedan that only Alfa Romeo could have designed.

“All-new from the ground up, the Giulia lineup marks Alfa Romeo’s return to the heart of the premium sedan segment, and the next chapter of the brand’s rich 105-year heritage,” said Reid Bigland, Head of Alfa Romeo – North America. “From the new Giulia and Giulia Ti models, to the ultra-high performance Quadrifoglio model, each Alfa Romeo sedan delivers class-leading power and handling, the pedigree of incredible technology and race-inspired performance, plus design and style that could only be crafted in Italy.” alfaromeousa.com

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Travel Gear Traveling With Wine

Have Wine, Will Travel

BY P R IS C ILL A P ILON

Traveling with wine is now easier than ever when you travel smart.

Whether visiting Bordeaux or Sonoma, one of the most difficult times of any getaway is being forced to part ways with the favorite vintages discovered during the wine tastings.

Naturally, the desire is to share the experience back home with friends and family pronto, and not wait for days (or weeks) for the box to arrive in the mail. Worse yet, enduring fruitless weeks while waiting for an international shipment to clear customs.

Transporting red wine in checked bags was at one time a very risky game of roulette with your clothes. The invention of simple inflatables and clever, specialized rolling luggage pieces have made it easier than ever to arrive home stain-free, and ready to pop the cork to get the party started.

Options for amateurs and seasoned wine collectors include: WIN E C R U ZER

V IN N IB AG

– an inflatable, reusable bag for single bottles of wine or spirits.

Stores flat when not in use. Retail $28.00 USD ellessco.com/vinnibag

How much wine can you bring into the United States from abroad? According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection, “Generally, one liter of alcohol per person may be brought into the U.S. duty-free by travelers who are 21 years old, or older; although travelers coming from the U.S. Virgin Islands or other Caribbean countries are entitled to more. Additional quantities may be entered, although they will be subject to duty and Federal excise taxes, which will be assessed and collected at the port of entry.

Alcoholic beverages purchased in duty-free shops are subject to duty and federal excise tax when accompanying you into the United States.”

Duty: luxegetaways.info/duty Federal Excise Tax: luxegetaways.info/tax

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– the ultimate durable and lightweight luggage. Holds up to 12 bottles of wine.

Because it is insulated with a foam interior, wine will remain at the same temperature for six to eight hours, and is less susceptible to thermal shock and vibration issues. Extended handle and wheels for ease of transport. Retail $399.95 USD winecruzer.com

VIN G A R D E VA LIS E ® G R A N D E 0 4

– the most versatile option with four spinner wheels and the ability to be used as a regular suitcase when not transporting wine. The flexible interior has removable wine cavities shaped to accommodate wine bottles of various shapes and sizes, and can hold up to 12 wine or 10 wine and two champagne bottles. If traveling with less, inserts can be removed to make room for clothes and toiletries. Retail $299.95 USD vingardevalise.com

Asia’s top superyacht event Kata Rocks is a design driven, luxury resort and residence, located directly on the ocean front at the southern end of the famous Kata Beach, along Phuket's sunset west coast. LuxeGetaways was pleased to collaborate with Kata Rocks Superyacht Rendezvous (KRSR) as a media partner. The event is now being hailed as Asia’s top superyacht event – placing Phuket firmly on the global yachting map. This monumental event raised Phuket to a new level, joining Monaco, St Tropez, Cannes and the Caribbean as one of the of the most preeminent superyacht destinations in the world superyacht destinations. With more than 15 world-class superyachts assembled for this exclusive rendezvous, the KRSR offered a series of bespoke activities, glamorous parties and social events that effortlessly mixed networking and socializing in a relaxed and luxurious environment. The KRSR closing

celebration was billed as the charter season opening event. It exceeded all expectations with many calling it Phuket's 'party of the year!' The 2017 Kata Rocks Superyacht Rendezvous will be held this December.

“We are confident that the KRSR will become an important fixture in the international yachting calendar,” said Richard Lambert, Managing Director Asia Burgess.

“The organizers of the Kata Rocks Superyacht Rendezvous have exceeded all of our expectations,” said Mr. Bas Nederpelt, Commercial Director Feadship.

“Feedback has been extremely positive, and it‘s gratifying to help elevate Phuket to elite status as a true luxury destination and superyacht playground," said Mr. Richard Pope, Kata Rocks’ & Infinite Luxury Chief Executive.

Learn more at KataRocks.com

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B

ordeaux has always been a mecca for wine connoisseurs. British Royalty, America’s Founding Fathers and wine collectors around the globe have all appreciated the finesse of the wines of Bordeaux. In the last few years, this famous wine region has polished and updated its cities and villages to welcome the wine tourists. Though many visitors fly or drive in from Paris, Bordeaux is also now a river cruise stop catering to wine lovers – providing great options when exploring this region. To better understand the region, Bordeaux is sliced down the center by the Gironde

Estuary, which splits apart into the Dordogne River and River Garonne. As you will soon see, there are great differences based on the location of the wineries within the region – this is simplified as “Right Bank” and “Left Bank.”

Finding the right itinerary for Bordeaux requires an “exam” to determine your wine preferences. Do you drink mostly Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated blends? Then the left bank is your place. Do you love the Sauvignon Blanc / Sémillon Bordeaux whites and the finest dessert wines in the world?

Then focus on the Graves and Sauternes sub-regions. Do you love the velvet sensations of Merlot-dominated red blends? The Right Bank is your destination.

Love all wines equally, and want to truly taste all that this region has to offer? We have compiled a complete 72-hour itinerary to cater to your every wine desire. So book a local driver, sit back and taste your way through the vines and vineyards of some of the world’s most cherished Bordeaux wineries.

With a rich history of producing some of the world’s finest wines since the 8th Century, this region of France makes for a fascinating journey of the senses.

Photography: Chateau Haut Bailly

A 72 Hour Bordeaux Wine Lovers Getaway © Can Stock Photo / luiscar

By Tricia Conover DAY 1: WINE MUSEUM – LEFT BANK PAUILLAC – HAUT MEDOC Following your arrival in Bordeaux City Center, start the morning with a visit to La Cité du Vin. The locals are very proud of their new wine museum and restaurant venue that opened last year, and for good reason. The museum offers a virtual and interactive view of the history of wine, and the world’s premier wine regions. Make reservations for lunch with international wine selections at Cité du Vin’s, Le 7 Restaurant for a panoramic view of the city.

In the afternoon, begin your Left Bank exploration at Château Mouton Rothschild, a Premier Cru Classé 1st Growth winery located in Pauillac. In 1855, Emperor Napoleon III ordered a Wine Classification for the Paris Exposition, ranking

each from 1st to 5th Growth, with 1st being the best. Château Mouton Rothschild is one of only five châteaux exclusively ranked 1st Growth.

Famous Artists such as Picasso, Chagall, Warhol and Dali have been commissioned since 1945 to create the front label for each vintage. The Château Mouton Rothschild’s “Museum of Wine in Art” is a destination in itself, as it contains exceptional rare art, glassware and tapestries from multiple cultures – melding the dialogue between art and wine. Take full advantage of this opportunity and follow the museum tour with a tasting of their most recent releases, which happen to be some of the most expensive wines in the world.

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For your next vineyard experience, visit Château Paloumey in Haut Medoc. Château Paloumey is a family-owned Cru Bourgeois winery that is not old enough to have been ranked by the 1855 Classification. However, their superior wines are several of the real wine bargains of the Left Bank. Arrange lunch with a wine tasting on the vineyard terrace in advance, and experience the exceptional hospitality of this welcoming family. A lovely hands-on experience from start to finish!

Return to Bordeaux for a dinner at Le Pressoir d’Argent, Gordon Ramsay’s Michelin star rated restaurant at the Intercontinental Bordeaux – Le Grand Hotel. Try the Sole d’Arcachon with caviar and oyster volute – a delicious specialty.

Photography: Chateau Paloumey

DAY 2: GRAVES – SAUTERNES First Growth rated, Château Haut Brion is the oldest (and smallest) of the First Growths, and is the first visit on the Graves itinerary. Rarely seen today, here you will actually be able to witness the oak barrels being fired and tempered after beginning the experience with the viewing of a historic film overview of the Château. You will also have an opportunity to enjoy a tour and tasting to experience what Thomas Jefferson referred to as his favorite “OBrion.”

Château Haut-Bailly is another classified growth, and it features a terrace wine tasting in a magnificent vineyard setting. A private lunch is also an option in their beautifully appointed dining room. Interested in sharing your experience with your friends and family back home? The Château Haut-Bailly staff understands the new wave in wine tourism trends and they accommodate international wine shipping to simplify the process for you.

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magnificent vineyard setting

Where To Sleep Hostellerie de Plaisance 5 Rue du Clocher 33330 Saint-Émilion hostelleriedeplaisance.com Intercontinental Bordeaux – Le Grand Hotel 2-5 Place de la Comédie 33000 Bordeaux bordeaux.intercontinental.com

Photography: Chateau Haut Bailly

The next stop is Sauternes – home to the most celebrated dessert wines in the world. In this region, mist and warmth create the perfect climatic conditions to produce the “noble rot” that concentrates the sugar in the grapes, and produces the honeyed, apricot-scented and nutty sweet flavors associated with the sweet Sauternes wines. Château d’Yquem is the most renowned wine of the region, and a beautiful setting worthy of a visit.

Château Guiraud is just minutes away, and is a Premier Grand Cru Château that is completely organic. They also produce exceptional Sauternes, and the staff presents an entertaining and educational Sauternes story – the story of liquid gold.

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To close the day, arrange a private dinner at the dining room of Château La Lagune, a 3rd Growth estate. Their chef, Catherine Stewart, always selects a menu that reflects a unique twist on traditional French cuisine. During my last visit, she featured Braised Lamb Shoulder with Honey Caramelized Carrots; and for the dessert course, Red Wine Poached Pear with Vanilla Custard and Madeleines.

Winemaker, Caroline Frey, oversees the wine pairing to perfection – making this a must-try experience.

Wine Bordeaux

Where To Drink

La Cite du Vin 134 Quai de Bacalan 33300 Bordeaux laciteduvin.com Château Mouton Rothschild Lieu-Dit Le Pouyalet 33250 Pauillac chateau-mouton-rothschild.com

DAY 3: ST. EMILION AND POMEROL - RIGHT BANK Begin the Right Bank exploration with a tour of Château Angelus – one of only four St. Emilion Premier Grand Cru Classé “A” wineries. As you arrive, your national anthem might even be heard playing from their remarkable bell tower.

A unique feature here is the newly renovated tasting rooms and cellars. The signature Château Angelus wines have aromas of truffled black cherry and tobacco with sexy velvet textures. Wine critics often award these wines with 94-98 points.

Proceed next to Château Gazin in Pomerol, a neighbor to Pomerol’s most famous and expensive winery, Château Petrus (not open to the public). Château Gazin (like many Right Bank wines) is 90% Merlot, and is a magnificent example of a premier wine that shows “an iron fist in a velvet glove” texture. The charming owners/brothers Nicolas and Christophe de Bailliencourt offer a casual and personalized tasting and vineyard tour.

“ sexy velvet texture

Have lunch on the patio of Michelin star rated Hostellerie de Plaisance, which offers a panoramic view of the moss-covered walls of the medieval town of St. Emilion, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Chef and Sommeliers here make sure that the smallest details of cuisine and service are gracefully executed with precision. The Lobster cooked “à la cheminée” with seaweed butter is certainly a tasty option. Consider checking into the hotel for the evening to take full advantage of this elegant sanctuary.

Château Paloumey 50 Rue Pouge de Beau 33290 Ludon-Médoc chateaupaloumey.com Château Haut Brion 135 Avenue Jean Jaurès 33600 Pessac haut-brion.com Château Haut-Bailly 103 Avenue de Cadaujac 33850 Léognan chateau-haut-bailly.com Château d’Yquem 1-2 Château Yquem 33210 Sauternes yquem.fr Château Guiraud 1 Château Guiraud 33210 Sauternes chateauguiraud.fr Château Angelus 33330 Saint-Émilion angelus.com

Where to Eat Le Pressoir d’Argent 2-5 Place de la Comédie 33000 Bordeaux bordeaux.intercontinental.com Hostellerie de Plaisance 5 Rue du Clocher 33330 Saint-Émilion hostelleriedeplaisance.com Le 7 Restaurant 4 Rue de Pontac 33300 Bordeaux le7restaurant.com

Château Gazin Chemin de Chantecaille 33500 Pomerol chateau-gazin.com Ets Martin 25 Rue Guadet 33330 Saint-Émilion etablissements-martin.fr Château La Lagune 81 Avenue de l'Europe 33290 Ludon-Médoc chateau-lalagune.com

Logis de la Cadene 3 Place du Marché au Bois 33330 Saint-Émilion logisdelacadene.fr Chateau Paloumey 50 Rue Pouge de Beau 33290 Ludon-Médoc chateaupaloumey.com LUX EG E TAWAYS.C OM © Can Stock Photo / oleggawriloff

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Wine Bordeaux

A Guide to Bordeaux Wine Classifications

by Sub-Region

Tip: For a real treat, ask to see the stash of the world’s most highly prized wines in their underground cellar.

Left Bank Haut Medoc – 1855 Classification of Châteaux (ordered by Napoleon III for the best Bordeaux wines for the 1855 Exposition Universelle de Paris). The levels start at 1st Growth (Premier Cru) through 5th Growth (62 wines). The 1st Growths are: Château Lafite Rothschild, Château Latour, Château Margaux, Château Haut Brion (in Graves) and Château Mouton Rothschild.

Super Seconds – Those 2nd Growths of Haut Medoc that are close to being 1st Growths: Example Léoville Las Cases. Note: all other Left Bank wines are unclassified or Cru Bourgeois (Medoc), which is a Château that is examined and certified for quality.

Left Bank Graves – 1959 Classification: Châteaux are rated “Crus Classé” for red or white wine. Sub-region Pessac-Léognan is its own AOC (Appellation d’Origine Controlée).

Left Bank Sauternes – Classified in 1855, there are only 3 levels: Premier Cru Supérieur (solely for Chateau d’Yquem), Premier Cru 1st Growth and Deuxiemes Cru (2nd Growth).

Photography: GrapeStone Concepts

If you cannot decide among all of the Right Bank wines, consider visiting one of St. Emilion’s finest wine shops, Ets Martin. Ask Benoit Gaillard to pour you several samples of his selected wines.

Consider enjoying your final meal on this adventure at Château Angelus’ Logis de la

Cadene, one of the oldest restaurants in St. Emilion. Sit on the patio under a canopy of vines sipping the regions finest wines. And to finish of your tasting tour of Bourdeaux, be sure to sample a specialty of the house, the Cointreau Soufflé with blood orange sorbet.

Right Bank St. Emilion – This is the only Right Bank location to classify wines. 4 levels of wines: Premier Grand Cru Classé A (only 4 properties Châteaux Cheval Blanc, Ausone, Angélus, and Pavie), Grand Cru Classé B (14 properties), Grand Cru Classé (64 properties), and Grand Cru (lowest classed level).

Right Bank Pomerol – This region has no official classification, yet Château Petrus is considered to rank with the 1st Growths in Bordeaux.

Other Bordeaux Wines, Including Entry Level – There are 7 AOC’s (Appellations d’Origine controlee) for these wines: Bordeaux Rouge AOC, Bordeaux Supérieur Rouge, Bordeaux Clairet, Bordeaux Rosé, Bordeaux Blanc, Bordeaux Supérieur Blanc and Crémant de Bordeaux.

Photography: Logis de la Cadene

With so much more yet to discover, we hope that your 72-hour Bordeaux Wine Getaway will set the stage for a future, and even more in-depth exploration of the world’s most famous wine region.

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Getaways Crystal Cruises

ULTIMATE GETAWAY OPPORTUNITIES WITH

CRYSTAL CRUISES

BY MICHELLE M. WINNER

When it comes to luxury travel options, Crystal Cruises is continuing to impress with their dynamic offerings to travelers of all budgets and desires.

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Getaways Crystal Cruises FLYING HIGH WITH CRYSTAL AIRCRUISES Crystal Cruises has added something new to their impressive portfolio of offerings for guests seeking the exceptional. Crystal AirCruises and their varied 2017-2018 itineraries were created to showcase the best of private air journeys. Their private Boeing 777-200LR whisks discerning travelers to destinations all over the world where they will experience five-star properties and luxury safari lodges.

From start to finish, Crystal’s impeccable standards of service ensures that a guest’s every wish will be attended to by Crystal’s own expert Skye Butlers, destination specialists and concierges. The custom-built aircraft is appointed with features rarely found in even the most luxurious private jets: state-of-the-art entertainment system, Crystal Exclusive Class seats that provide ergonomic comfort converting to 180-degree lie-flat beds, and a chic social area that includes a stand-up bar, lounge seating and separate elegant dining area with a Crystal AirCruise executive chef and their premium wine list – wow!

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The best of private air journeys...

LuxeGetaways is very excited about several of these unique offerings coming next year, including: June 1, 2018: Savoring the Winelands (Round-Trip San Francisco, 16 days) – Visits San Francisco; Santiago, Chile; Mendoza, Argentina; Cape Town, South Africa; Tuscany, Italy; Bordeaux and Champagne/Paris, France.

September 8, 2018: Exotic Adventures (Round-Trip New York City, 22 days) – Visits New York City; Lima, Peru; Easter Island, Polynesia; Cairns, Australia; Siem Reap, Cambodia; Lhasa, China; Agra, India; Cape Town, South Africa; and Abu Dhabi, UAE.

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PENTHOUSE LIVING ONBOARD CRYSTAL SERENITY Sophisticated design shines in the Crystal Serenity's Penthouse Suites.

Interiors of these butler-serviced, 1,345 square-feet (125 square-meters) Crystal Penthouses were completely reconfigured with a refined elegance. Designed to maximize the views throughout the entire suite, the rooms and seating arrangements are open, flowing from room to room with ease. Custom handmade Italian mosaic tiles, Swarovski crystal lighting, specially designed fabrics and plush carpeting complement the neutral color palette, while the artwork in each suite provides its own personality. The Crystal Penthouses are outfitted with the latest in uncomplicated and intuitive technology, such as the custom light settings and audio throughout – perfection!

TIPS FOR FIRST-TIME LUXURY CRUISERS LuxeGetaways asked several travel writers for their best tips when it comes to making the most of your cruise...

1. Packing: Take less than you think you will need. Stick to a few solid colors and mix and match pieces. Scarves/wraps can dress up anything.

2. Excursions: Research shore excursions and sign up online immediately if available. Make note of any special hiking shoes, rain jacket, etc. that you will need. Do not feel limited to the offered excursions – sometimes if the town is walk-able you can strike out on your own. Be sure to be back well before departure, as they will not wait for you!

3. Avoid Delays: Arrive a day or two before your ship’s departure whenever possible. Jet lag, airline delays, lost luggage and other circumstances on the day of your departure can ruin a trip.

4. Use A Travel Agency: Luxury cruises are a travel investment.

Sometimes it is best to work with a travel agent so that they can recommend the best cruise line for you. In case any arrangements go wrong, they are your advocates. Look for a very low ratio of ship personnel to passengers for extra pampering.

A ROMANTIC GETAWAY WITH CRYSTAL MOZART Crystal River Cruises is without a doubt one of the world’s most luxurious river cruise lines, which offers unmatched romantic cruising onboard their newest vessel, the Crystal Mozart. Accommodating 154 guests, she travels to the most storied destinations in Austria, Germany, Slovakia and Hungary along the enchanting Danube River. The vessel is designed for maximum guest comfort with large and stylish guest suites, elegant lounges, indoor pool, and a serene dining room serving Crystal’s signature world-class cuisine. As the most technologically advanced vessel on Europe’s rivers, simply use the Apple® iPad in your suite to access port info, make spa appointments, secure dining reservations, flip through LuxeGetaways Magazine, schedule shore excursions, and to easily contact your butler or concierge – spacious luxury!

5. What is included? Ask your travel agent, or research what is included in your fare. Wines and other alcoholic beverages, tips, a premium restaurant visit, flights, pre-cruise hotel, and some shore excursions could all be wrapped into your fare.

Crystal Cruises www.crystalcruises.com

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Feature Hospitality Profile

The Art of Hospitality:

JORDAN NOVA OF SPAGO, BEVERLY HILLS STORY BY MICHELLE M. WINNER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CAL BINGHAM

Mastering the sophisticated style of hospitality The second time I saw Jordan Nova, I recognized him not by his impeccably tailored Armani suit, or by his sincere smile, but rather in the crisp way he poured my glass of Champagne. And I did not even know his name at that point. It was a few years before that we had first met, while I was sitting in a restaurant 2,500 miles across the Pacific Ocean on Oahu. But here, completely out of geographical context, I knew him immediately by his sophisticated style of hospitality.

How did this 27-year-old professional get to be in management at the elegant Spago, Beverly Hills – the mother ship of Wolfgang Puck’s restaurant empire?

Simple, it is his focused approach, tireless work ethic and a wealth of experience gained in various restaurants where he has always worked with the best James Beard Foundation and Michelin-awarded chefs.

The restaurants of Daniel Boulud in New York City to Roy Yamaguchi in Hawaii are prime examples of the “institutions” that taught Jordan varying styles of service and cuisine, while offering opportunities for him to share his passion for wine with his guests. Nova is one of the youngest sommeliers who has achieved the title Advanced Sommelier through the Court of Master Sommeliers, and is a Certified Specialist of Wine through the Society of Wine Educators.

What makes a fine-dining experience exceptional? For a guest, it can be many things. As someone who has made hospitality his art, and for whom fine-tuning and learning is constant, Jordan is now Assistant General Manager at Spago, Beverly Hills where he embraces his mission to ensure his staff and guests have memorable experiences each evening. LuxeGetaways recently asked this rising hospitality star a few questions about what he does so well.

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LG: Jordan, what constitutes perfect service at Spago?

JN: It’s funny, we talk so much about this elusive “perfect service” of flawless movements, precise silverware placements, poetic food descriptions and every tiny detail in place, but it’s actually so much more. Guests come expecting these things, but they come back to feel the love, and to feel valued. If everyone left our dining room feeling like they’re welcomed, they’re important, and they’re cared for - then they will leave feeling valued. When that happens, we have achieved something more than perfection in service. I think we’ve then created a relationship… and in the end, that’s most important.

JORDAN’S FAVORITE THINGS: Champagne I’m Indulging In Right Now: After service, I’m a little tired and I tend to like Champagne that’s light on its feet and laser-precise: Bereche et Fils, Gaston Chiquet and Pierre Peters. What I really like to drink is broad, intense and generous: Andre Clouet, Clos Cazals, Paul Bara’s Special Club and Champagne Miniere.

Where I Drink After Work: Having lived in Napa, we always say that we’re never drinking, we’re always tasting. And we’re never having another, we’re always revisiting.

Wally’s Beverly Hills has a great wine selection and is down the street from Spago.

They’re never short on truffles for your pizza, grilled cheese or fries. Of course, I’m biased

and love Wolfgang Puck’s CUT Lounge at the Beverly Wilshire. The Uni Toast is life changing. And for a cocktail, Roger Room is a great cocktail bar that is simultaneous trendy and dive-y, and never runs out of Champagne.

The Los Angeles Breakfast: Jordan Kahn’s new daytime restaurant, Destroyer, has one of the calmest breakfasts. The environment is pure zen, and the morning fare is some of the most simple, elegant and thoughtful that I’ve ever eaten. I visit here a few times a week.

Beach Snacks: After spending a few years in Hawaii, I live for my poke. I get traditional poke that tastes just like the islands at Poke-Poke on Venice Beach.

LG: Tell us your mantra or mission with respect to hospitality?

JN: I’m constantly reminding myself and my colleagues that we are not in food service, and we are not in wine service; but that we are in the restaurant industry, and we are in the hospitality profession.

The hospitality begins with us.

LG: What are the unique talents and ideas that you bring to Spago?

JN: Spago is daunting because we have 180 team members. Attitude is everything. I try my absolute best every moment to smile. When I arrive, I shake everyone’s hand and say hello and ask about his or her day. Up until the moment I walk out of the door, the sincere performance of hospitality cannot just be for the guests, but for everyone. It’s also extremely important that the words “I,” “me,” ”they” and “them” be eliminated from your lexicon. For example, rather than saying, “I need you to set table 10 for six people,” I would say instead, “When you have a moment, we’d like table 10 for six.”

LG: You always look so polished Jordan, what brands do you wear?

JN: I am a small guy, so I’m pretty stuck with form fitting suits. I love Emporia Armani for nights when I really have to move and look dapper. On a budget I also wear a lot of TopMan pieces. For accessories I have a few David Yurman rings and tie clips that are staples, as well as my favorite Movado watch. Our guests make a tremendous effort to look great when they see us, so the least we can do is reciprocate the effort.

Spago, Beverly Hills 176 N Canon Drive Beverly Hills, CA 90210 luxegetaways.info/spago

Wally’s Beverly Hills 447 N Canon Drive Beverly Hills, CA 90210 wallysbeverlyhills.com

Destroyer 3578 Hayden Avenue Culver City, CA 90232 destroyer.la

Cut Lounge Beverly Wilshire, Beverly Hills (A Four Seasons Hotel) 9500 Wilshire Boulevard Beverly Hills, CA 90212 luxegetaways.info/cut

The Roger Room 370 La Cienega Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90048 therogerroom.com

Poke-Poke 2011 Ocean Front Walk Venice, CA 90291 poke-poke.com

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AN UNFORGETTABLE OVERNIGHT GETAWAY TO SAVANNAH

BY SHEL B IE L A ND RY

With its pedestrian-friendly layout and an abundance of southern charm, Savannah inspires visitors to return again to further explore this beautiful southern city on the coast.

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Getaways Savannah I first visited Savannah a few years ago as part of a Southern authors literary road trip. We arrived late in the afternoon and spent the evening wandering around the unfamiliar streets, eating at a sceney restaurant with live, local music before returning to our lodging for the night. The next morning, we ventured into the easily walk-able city with our knowledgeable guide. Stops along the brick paved streets included author Flannery O’Conner’s home in the historic district, the freemason lodge on the waterfront, and, of course, a graveyard tour just before dusk. The next morning we departed for our next destination, with only about a 24-hour visit to Savannah under my belt. Obviously I wished I had more time, but trust me, a shortage of time does not mean you need to miss any of the Savannah highlights!

Thanks to one of my good friends and Savannah local, we have compiled the best sights and bites for you to enjoy during your 24-hour stop in the iconic southern city of Savannah, Georgia.

Chrystal Beer Parlor: crystalbeerparlor.com Trolley Tours: trolleytours.com/savannah Pedicab Tour: savannahpedicab.com Leopold’s Ice Cream: leopoldsicecream.com River Street: riverstreetsavannah.com The Grey: thegreyrestaurant.com LuLu’s Chocolate Bar: luluschocolatebar.com Back in the Day Bakery: backinthedaybakery.com Forsyth Park: luxegetaways.info/forsyth

Spend your arrival lunch-hour at the historic, 1933 establishment Chrystal Beer Parlor before hopping aboard a trolley or pedicab tour to discover the unique history behind the establishment and growth of the city of Savannah. You are sure to find something to enjoy for lunch, but if you need some direction, the hamburgers are legendary in this area!

Dedicate your late afternoon to Broughton Street for some serious shopping and some pre-dinner dessert at Leopold’s Ice Cream, even if the line is halfway down the street. They will have all your favorite flavors, but be sure to give their seasonal flavors, like Guinness ice cream, a try. And do not miss the movie posters from decades of box office hits by owner and producer Stratton Leopold.

Have more than 24-hours? Try these Savannah hotspots: Lunch at Soho South: sohosouthcafe.com Brunch at The Collins Quarter: thecollinsquarter.com Dinner at The Florence: theflorencesavannah.com Drinks at Noble Fare: noblefare.com

Now that you have spent your day walking through that infamous southern humidity, you will probably want to venture back to your hotel to freshen up before heading out to see Savannah after dark. Since dinner reservations are a necessity in Savannah, do not forget to make them early. Begin your evening with a stroll down River Street towards the Bohemian Hotel to visit their rooftop lounge known for its handcrafted cocktails, live entertainment and stunning Savannah views. For your one chance at a Savannah dinner, The Grey will not disappoint. Built in a 1938 art deco Greyhound Bus Terminal, The Grey mixes the history, flavors and hospitality of Savannah with the refined, unique style of Chef Mashama Bailey to provide a unique localized experience. The seasonal menu rotates frequently offering guests and locals alike a truly one-of-a-kind tasting experience. To get the best restaurant experience, ask to sit at the center bar where the full menu is available along with a complete view of the restaurant goings-on. Finish off your perfect day with a late night stop at LuLu’s Chocolate Bar and enjoy some sweet, heavenly dessert dreams (if you are feeling adventurous, try the Rapture Sundae).

The Kimpton Brice Hotel: bricehotel.com Mansion on Forsyth Park: mansiononforsythpark.com Bohemian Hotel: bohemianhotelsavannah.com

Photography: Bohemian Hotel

After a restful night’s sleep, visit the funky, retro-vibed Back in the Day Bakery for a cappuccino and a snack (or their old fashioned vanilla cupcake if you’re in the mood for something truly delectable, or the scones and lavender cookies are other favorites). Sit at one of the window tables or snag one of the available long tables if you’re planning to meet friends. On your way out of town, bid a final farewell to Savannah with a walk around the fountain in Forsyth Park. Built in 1858, the fountain serves as the city’s focal point during the famous St. Patrick’s Day festivities, including the ceremonial dyeing of the fountain’s water to shamrock green. Perhaps this final Savannah icon will work it’s magic and entice you to come back for more than a quick visit. Who knows, perhaps after only 24-hours you too will have “Ya’ll” worked into your vocabulary!

Where to Stay:

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Travel Inspiration Spring/Summer

HOTEL OPENINGS HAPPENING IN THE LOS ANGELES AREA It’s an exciting time to visit the Los Angeles area to take advantage of these very exciting hotel openings.

Opening this spring, The James West Hollywood-Sunset is ideally situated on the corner of Sunset and La Cienega – featuring stunning panoramic views of the Hollywood Hills and Los Angeles basin. With welcoming social spaces and a casually sophisticated aesthetic, The James West Hollywood will be infused with local culture and liberated touches inspired by the community it will call home.

8490 Sunset Boulevard West Hollywood, CA 90069 jameshotels.com/west-hollywood

THE JAMES WEST HOLLYWOOD

Guestrooms: 251 Guestrooms 35 Suites 2 Penthouse Lofts 2 Bungalow Suites 18 Loft Suites 13 One-Bedroom Suites

Features: Pool, Pool Deck and Bungalow Suites 10,000 square feet of Flexible Indoor/Outdoor Meeting/Event Space Complimentary Business Networking Lounge James Club Space Complimentary Wi-Fi Private Rooftop Lounge Lil’ james Amenities for Kids Shinola Pet Program Urban Wellness Offerings 24-Hour Fitness Center Complimentary Local Car Services

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Renderings: Courtesy The James Hotel

Travel Inspiration Spring/Summer

Inspired by the glamorous surroundings, the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills is in the spotlight as the excitement grows with the opening quickly approaching. Located adjacent to The Beverly Hilton on the corner of Wilshire and Santa Monica boulevards in Beverly Hills, the 12-story hotel is a remarkable urban respite perfectly centered in the heart of Beverly Hills that epitomizes the pampered and comfortable ease of the finest Californian lifestyle.

9850 Wilshire Boulevard Beverly Hills, CA 90210 waldorfastoriabeverlyhills.com

WALDORF ASTORIA BEVERLY HILLS

Guestrooms: 119 Deluxe Rooms 48 Suites

3 Villa Suites 1 Presidential Suite

Features:

Photography: Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills

Dining with Jean-Georges Vongerichten 5,000 Square Foot Luxury Spa by La Prairie Floor-to-Ceiling Windows That Lead to Spacious, Oversized Private Terrace Rooftop Pool and Lounge with VIP Cabanas Specifically for Hotel Guests State-of-the-Art Television with DVR and Access to Netflix, Hulu, Airplay, and Meerkat Crestron™ Smart Home System to Control Entire Room Environment Fully Stocked, Top Shelf Minibar Espresso Machine Bluetooth-Enabled Speakers in Bathroom with Guest Input Panel to Accommodate All Devices Single Bathroom with Two Basins, Bathtub, and Shower Stocked with Diptyque Toiletries Dedicated Personal Concierge Services Fitness Center Exclusive Outdoor Garden Spaces

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Travel Inspiration Spring/Summer

AND TAUCK JOIN FORCES TO OFFER AMAZING FAMILY GETAWAYS

BY DA MON M. BA N K S

A unique collection of educational getaways for families looking for an unforgettable journey.

We love these unique travel opportunities for family travel this summer. Tauck has collaborated with BBC Earth to craft once-in-a-lifetime getaways for families seeking magical learning experiences that unfold in places where wildlife is observed in the natural habitats. Join Tauck in Tanzania, where you will spot Africa's Big Five on the savannah, plains, and grasslands that leads to the ultimate family safari; in Alaska, where creatures large and small thrive in a variety of ecosystems and environments; throughout the Galรกpagos Archipelago, where you will find amazing wildlife that lives nowhere else on earth; and explore the rainforest while in Costa Rica. www.tauck.com

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Tanzania: A Grand Family Safari Duration: 10 days Experience an unforgettable family safari in Tanzania, the ultimate safari and Africa tour where families have an opportunity to view Africa's "Big Five" on daily game drives in the Serengeti and Tarangire national parks.

Costa Rica: Jungles & Rainforests Duration: 8 days From the Caribbean Sea to the Pacific Ocean, Tauck introduces families to the amazing biodiversity of Costa Rica's beach, rainforest and jungle on this exciting excursion.

Galápagos: Wildlife Wonderland Duration: 8 days Discover wildlife found nowhere else in the world on this popular Galápagos tour, designed specifically for families, and even features a special four-night cruise aboard the expeditionary yacht Santa Cruz II.

Alaska: The Call of the Wild Duration: 8 days An Alaskan family vacation of a lifetime... this adventure travels by land, sea and air allowing families to explore by jet boat, “flightsee” over Denali National Park, visit Alaskan Huskies in training and so much more.

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Travel Inspiration Spring/Summer

10 TOP

TRAVEL EXPERIENCES, PACKAGES & EVENTS This collection of travel experiences, events and hotel packages offer some of the best opportunities for travelers looking for unique getaways this spring and summer.

Photography: HarbourView Inn

For these offers (and more), visit luxegetaways.com/spring-2017-travel-experiences

Charleston, South Carolina The trend of solo traveling is ever growing, and the HarbourView Inn is embracing this concept with their “Solo Southern Retreat Program.” Live like a local by giving back to the community and rejuvenating your soul. Spend a day working at One80 Place feeding the hungry, enjoying dinner at Hank’s Seafood Restaurant at their communal table while dining with the locals, and wondering the streets of Charleston on foot, or with the complimentary bicycle. harbourviewcharleston.com

Tokyo The Palace Hotel Tokyo commands some of the city’s most exclusive real estate. As heir to a legacy going back more than half a century as one of the city’s most iconic properties, the hotel remains committed to offering Japanese hospitality at its finest. We recommend the “Best of Tokyo Package” to fully capture the essence of Tokyo with this one-of-a-kind experience that brings together the best of Japan’s arts, gastronomy and natural wonders while staying in their grandest suite for five-nights, or more. A fantastic package to showcase the best of Tokyo! palacehoteltokyo.com Photography: Palace Hotel Tokyo

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Photography: Turnberry

New York City

Miami, Florida

Located in the heart of Manhattan, The Chatwal Hotel is offering “The Great Comet of 1812 Package,” which includes a stay in a Junior Suite (or higher categories), a gourmet pre-theatre dining experience for two curated by Chef Geoffrey Zakarian at The Chatwal’s iconic Lambs Club, and two premium experience tickets to the musical. A Playbill, exclusively signed by the cast of the production is also included as a VIP welcome gift. The offer is valid for stays through September 4th, 2017. Enjoy this exclusive Broadway getaway!

For those looking for the ultimate spa getaway, a must-experience this season is the completely new âme Spa & Wellness Collective at Turnberry Isle. This sets a new standard in luxury spa and wellness destinations. Curated by a collective comprising forwardthinking global practitioners, âme is at the vanguard of both Eastern and Western modalities, offering integrated strategies that allow clients to manage stress, encourage strength and flexibility, lose weight, cultivate equanimity, look and feel younger, and create new patterns that can last a lifetime -- all within a supportive community.

thechatwalny.com

amewellness.com turnberryislemiami.com

Vail, Colorado As the weather begins to warm, Vail is a magical destination, and the Sonnanalp is an iconic hotel in the heart of Vail Village. An extensive spa menu is available for guests while also enjoying the heated indoor and outdoor pool, whirlpools, wet lounges, steam room, sauna, relaxation cove, Oxygen Bar and more while taking advantage of the “Spa Retreat Package.” For families, they also have a complimentary recreation program for kids with exclusive activities arranged weekly. There is so much to love about this hotel! sonnenalp.com Photography: Sonnenalp

Photography: The Chatwal Hotel

Ibiza Bay, Italy Be one of the first to experience Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay when it opens in June. This luxury five-star resort is a member of the globally recognized Small Luxury Hotels of the World™ (SLH), and situated on the shores of Talamanca Bay. Ibiza Bay brings the first Six Senses Spa to the island – offering signature journeys, anti-aging treatments, innovative fitness workouts and top-notch manicures at the healthy juice and nail bar. Take advantage of this opening this summer! nobuhotelibizabay.com

Photography: Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay

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Travel Inspiration Spring/Summer Santa Rosa Beach, Florida Nestled on nearly 500 acres of sugar-white sand in Santa Rosa Beach, The WaterColor® Inn is surrounded by 1,400 linear feet of beachfront and pine forests alongside Western Lake. The 60-room Inn offers deluxe accommodations designed by David Rockwell, and the “Tee-Rific Golf Getaway Package” includes rounds at either the Tom Fazio designed Camp Creek Golf Club, or the Greg Norman designed Shark's Tooth Golf Club. A great place to tee it up this season! watercolorresort.com Photography: Santa Rosa Beach

Sonoma, California Jordan Vineyard & Winery takes its love of all things French very seriously. Founders Tom and Sally Jordan built a grand chateau and created Burgundy and Bordeaux styled wines that make visitors feel as if they have traveled to France without leaving America.

Spring at Jordan (May 13, 2017) is a great time to visit for this themed affair when they unveil the first-ever Jordan Cuvée Champagne by AR Lenoble, as well as Jordan’s new releases of Russian River Valley Chardonnay and Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. A visit to Jordan Vineyard & Winery is ideal for anyone who simply loves wine, or enjoys a spectacular winery experience! jordanwinery.com

Photography: Jordan Winery

McCall, Idaho For a complete getaway from everything, consider visiting Shore Lodge, just a two-hour scenic drive from Boise. A variety of activities are sure to keep all the guests content -- water sports, golf, hiking, biking and simply relaxing and enjoying the fresh, crisp air.

In addition to the luxury spa and gourmet dining, the resort will debut an entirely new culinary concept in May with three new dining outlets. Check it out! shorelodge.com Photography: Shore Lodge Photography: Soneva Kiri

Thailand and The Maldives Soneva invites guests to "Stay for Good" and support the brand's efforts to preserve the environment and enrich the communities in which the resorts are based, in exchange for complimentary bonus nights at its luxury properties in Thailand and the Maldives. A minimum stay of five nights at Soneva Fushi and three nights at Soneva Kiri is required, and at least one paying guest per villa needs to participate. To book this offer, contact reservations@soneva.com and mention booking code "ECOPKG17." A great way to give back while on vacation! soneva.com

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FOR THESE OFFERS (AND MORE), VISIT LUXEGETAWAYS.COM/SPRING-2017-TRAVEL-EXPERIENCES

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Enter to Win “A Weekend Getaway” in Miami, Boca Raton or Palm Beach!

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Loews Miami Beach Hotel Sweepstakes

Boca Raton Resort & Club Sweepstakes

The Breakers Palm Beach Sweepstakes

Following a $50 million renovation, here is your chance to stay at this redesigned Miami Beach icon that is in the middle of all the action. This weekend getaway is for two, and includes 2-nights in one of their redesigned guestrooms. The winner will also receive exclusive access to one of the hotel’s adult-only SOAK cabanas for one day (based on availability).

Discover the unforgettable at the Boca Raton Resort & Club, a Waldorf Astoria Resort. The resort remains faithful to its glamorous past of more than 80 years, while radiating a vibrant energy and offering infinite amenities. This weekend getaway includes 2-nights in one of their guestrooms, 1-day at Sea Level at the Beach Club, 1-day access to the FlowRider, $100 spa credit at Waldorf Astoria Spa, daily breakfast at Palm Court and an additional $250 resort credit to be used for food and drink while at the resort.

With a rich history of guests such as the Rockefellers, Vanderbilts, Astors and more, The Breakers still holds fast to the ideals that put it on the map, while offering world-class services and amenities in a modern-day seaside luxury resort. This weekend getaway includes 2-nights in a Deluxe Guest Room for two, along with a Champagne welcome and daily Full American Breakfast Buffet.

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story and photography By

Matt Long

in

COMMUNITY BASED LUXURY

Newfoundland

The province of Newfoundland and Labrador is one of the most picturesque provinces in Canada, and one with amazing people, culture and hospitality.

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Solo Travel Newfoundland When thinking of great luxury getaways around the world, the Eastern Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador probably does not immediately come to mind, but that is quickly changing. Within just a few short years, a remote and unlikely out-island has become a rock star in the worlds of both architecture and luxury travel. However, as I learned over a relaxing weekend, the Fogo Island Inn is much more than just another five-star hotel. It is changing the way we look at hospitality; and while it may be new to outsiders, it is a tradition with a long history within this homey province.

Fogo Island Inn and Community-Based Luxury Zita Cobb grew up on this small island of just 2,000 locals, but unlike most residents, she left at a young age to pursue a completely different lifestyle.

Zita quickly rose through the ranks of the corporate world, and became one of the most successful business leaders in the country. But rather than sitting back on her laurels, she decided to open a new chapter in her life, and in the lives of an entire island. Establishing the Shorefast Foundation, Cobb believes that social engagement and artistic nourishment will in turn lead to economic stimulation on Fogo Island. The most visible aspect of this experiment is the unusual Fogo Island Inn. Twenty-three very unique suites comprise the Inn experience, and each one

is personally decorated with items made in the various communities dotting the island. Nothing at the Inn is done without a focus on the community, and all of the building materials were made on-island – from the nails, to the cozy blankets on the beds. The net effect of that is not just a sense of ownership by local residents, but by the Inn guests themselves.

While enjoying an undoubtedly luxury experience, guests also become a part of the community in one of the most unique hospitality experiments ever conducted.

At the end of the day though, the Inn is still an Inn; and the guests make the trek not just for social responsibility, but to be pampered; and pampered they are. Days start out with a tackle box full of muffins, tea or coffee and other snacks as a pre-breakfast treat to help guests slowly wake up. That level of thoughtfulness is commonplace at the Fogo Island Inn, and every moment of every day is silently tailored to meet the wishes of individual guests.

While not enjoying the massive windows overlooking the ocean, or the incredible culinary event that is every meal, guests spend time getting to know Fogo Island. Tours with local residents, whale and iceberg scouting boat trips, hikes and more unique activities easily fill the days if active travel is your goal. No matter what you choose to do, and regardless of it being a lovely summer night or a more robust wintry morning, almost every visitor falls under the charms of the Inn, and the island that it calls home.

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Solo Travel Newfoundland

Get To Know St. John’s Traveling around Newfoundland and Labrador is a process – one that should be undertaken with time to spare, and a willingness to learn more about one of the most beautiful provinces in the country. All explorations begin in St. John’s, the oldest city in North America, and the provincial capital. But do not just pass through; be sure to spend a few days exploring not only the city, but the surrounding region to understand why Newfoundland and Labrador is routinely called one of the most picturesque provinces in Canada. To get the most out of the experience, there are two tours to consider: Far East Photography Tours – St. John’s is an incredibly beautiful town, but some of that beauty is not within the heart of downtown, which is why you need a local guide to show you the best spots for those Instagram-worthy shots. Owner Moe Fitzgerald tailors the experience to individual guests, but any great day exploring St. John’s will include colorful Jellybean Row, the Quidi Vidi fishing village and Cape Spear, the easternmost point of North America.

Cod Sounds Food Tours – Thanks to its relative isolation over the centuries, the traditional food culture of Newfoundland has thankfully been preserved, and the best way to learn more about it is on an immersive food experience with local expert, Lori McCarthy. Offering a variety of tours and experiences, no matter how you choose to spend the day (or afternoon) with Lori, you are guaranteed to walk away with an appreciation of local delicacies, as well as a full belly.

Other Central Coast Highlights Newfoundland and Labrador is such a large province that weeks could be spent exploring all of it. If you are traveling to Fogo Island, do not just speed through the province, but be sure to stop off and enjoy some of the amazing experiences found all along the Central Coast.

Lighthouse Picnic – For a fun half-day out, begin at the Ferryland Lighthouse, a 19th century lighthouse with amazing views of the coastline. Before you go, be sure to order a special Lighthouse Picnic, meant to be enjoyed while relaxing and admiring the stunning scenery.

You pick up and drop off the picnic at the lighthouse itself, so it could not be easier.

Prime Berth Boat Tour – Located just a few minutes from Twilingate, this is one of the best overall heritage experiences in the region. Before boarding the boat, guests are led through the Captain’s fishing museum and mini-fishing village he has lovingly relocated to the site so that guests can see what traditional fishing culture in Newfoundland is all about. The real fun though is the boat experience itself as longtime fisherman and owner Captain Dave takes visitors out in search of icebergs, whales, puffins and more.

Newfoundland has long attracted intrepid travelers in search of a more rustic experience amidst some of the most dynamic landscapes on the continent. In recent years though, the province has also lured all types of visitors, from luxury seekers to experiential thrill seekers. Regardless of your reason, you are always guaranteed a warm welcome, amazing food, and an overall travel experience that you will never forget.

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Newfoundland and Labrador Tourism www.newfoundlandlabrador.com

Cod Sounds Food Tours www.codsounds.ca

Fogo Island Inn 210 Main Road Joe Batt’s Arm, Newfoundland Canada A0G 2XO www.fogoislandinn.ca

Lighthouse Picnic Ferryland, Newfoundland Canada A0A 2H0 www.lighthousepicnics.ca

Shorefast Foundation www.shorefast.org Far East Photography Tours www.fareastphotography.ca

Prime Berth Boat Tour 1 main Highway Twillingate, NL A0G 4M0, Canada www.primeberth.com

Photography: Fogo Island Inn

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Feature Golf Resorts

Golf getaways are about so much more than just a hotel room and golf course – these golf resorts throughout the United States provide all the necessary elements of an exceptional getaway for incredible golf at its finest, luxurious spa and wellness offerings and food and beverage options that are fit for the most discerning of travelers.

While there are other great golf resorts that we were not able to include in this collection, these 21 resorts are guaranteed to go out of their way to exceed your expectations. Tee it up, and enjoy!

21

Favorite

Golf Resort Getaways in the United States

BY DAMON M. BANKS

Callaway GBB Epic Driver MSRP: $499.00 luxegetaways.info/callaway

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Note that our collection is listed in alphabetical order, and not in order of ratings.

Photography: Monarch Beach

Photography: Bandon Dunes Golf Resort

Feature Golf Resorts Photography: Boulders Resort & Spa

1.

BANDON DUNES GOLF RESORT Location: Bandon, Oregon Website: bandondunesgolf.com Accommodations: Standard rooms/suites to 4-bedroom cottages

Located on Oregon’s rugged and scenic southern coast, Bandon Dunes makes for a unique playing experience.

The Resort features four distinct 18-hole courses (Bandon Dunes, Pacific Dunes, Bandon Trails and Old Macdonald); as well as Bandon Preserve, a 13-hole par 3 course; and The Punchbowl, a 100,000-square-foot putting course.

2.

BOULDERS RESORT & SPA Location: Scottsdale, Arizona Website: theboulders.com Accommodations: Casitas, Executive Suites, Villas, Haciendas and Villa Retreat

Scottsdale is a paradise for golf enthusiasts, and Boulders Resort & Spa, Curio Collection by Hilton challenges golfers of all skill levels on two award-winning Jay Morrishdesigned courses that stretch across an amazing desert landscape. With a spa and endless outdoor activities, this resort is a favorite getaway nestled in the Sonoran Desert.

Photography: El Conquistador Resort

Vertical Groove Driver MSRP: $399.00 vertgolf.com

3.

EL CONQUISTADOR RESORT Location: Fajardo, Puerto Rico Website: elconresort.com Accommodations: Variety of rooms/suites throughout five villages

Take the time to fully experience all the wonders of El Conquistador Resort, a Waldorf Astoria Resort. Embark upon a number of unique excursions, or take advantage of the on-site shops and spa. Designed by Arthur Hills, the plush golf course has elevation changes of more than 200 vertical feet, along with a sense of serenity that comes from the magnificent views of the surrounding ocean and rainforest.

PXG X Collection Driver MSRP: $850.00 luxegetaways.info/pxg

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Photography: Keswick Hall & Golf Club

Feature Golf Resorts Photography: Four Seasons Las Colinas

4.

FOUR SEASONS RESORT AND CLUB DALLAS AT LAS COLINAS Location: Irving, Texas Website: fourseasons.com/dallas Accommodations: Rooms/suites in the tower, or low-rise villas by golf course

Considered to be the fitness hub of Las Colinas, guests at the Four Seasons Resort and Club Dallas at Las Colinas take advantage of racquetball; squash; basketball; tennis; swimming; and daily yoga, pilates and fitness classes offered to guests and members. Home of the AT&T Byron Nelson PGA TOUR tournament each year, TPC Four Seasons Las Colinas is a must-play, along with Cottonwood Valley Golf Course being on-property.

5.

KESWICK HALL & GOLF CLUB Location: Keswick, Virginia Website: keswick.com Accommodations: Rooms/suites

Welcome to Keswick Hall & Golf Club, where the dining options, luxurious spa, championship golf, local wineries and an impeccable staff combine to create a very special atmosphere.

Pete Dye’s Full Cry course features 18 holes that take golfers for an adventure through scenic and rolling terrain that tumbles below the inn’s perch on the property’s high ground. This is a fantastic boutique luxury getaway.

6.

Photography: Kiawah Island Golf Resort

KIAWAH ISLAND GOLF RESORT Location: Kiawah Island, South Carolina Website: kiawahresort.com Accommodations: Luxury rooms/suites at The Sanctuary, or private villas/homes

Located outside of Charleston, Kiawah Island Golf Resort has all of the elements required for an amazing golf getaway.

Award-winning tennis facilities and endless family-friendly activities compliment the five resort golf courses that provide a dynamic variety of styles – including the world famous Ocean Course, which has hosted the Ryder Cup, World Cup, PGA Championship and more.

Photography: Little River Inn

Short Sleeve Protek Micro Pique Polo MSRP: $45.00

Tropical Print Knit Skort

Speed of Light Sublimation Print Polo MSRP: $75.00

MSRP: $79.00

ML75 Microlux Pant MSRP: 69.00

>> GET THE LOOK: GREG NORMAN COLLECTION gregnormancollection.com

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7.

LITTLE RIVER INN Location: Little River, California Website: littleriverinn.com Accommodations: Rooms with stunning ocean views

With a majestic Victorian elegance, the Little River Inn overlooks the Pacific Ocean and a dramatic coastline. This is a true getaway where guests can take advantage of the available hiking, tennis, kayaking and more. The Inn’s semi-private course is only nine holes, but is tucked among the hills and redwoods, and presents unexpected challenges to golfers.

Photography: Lodge at Torrey Pines

Feature Golf Resorts Photography: Monarch Beach Resort

9.

MONARCH BEACH RESORT Location: Dana Point, California Website: monarchbeachresort.com Accommodations: Rooms, Studio Suites and the Premium Suites Collection

8.

THE LODGE AT TORREY PINES Location: La Jolla, California Website: lodgetorreypines.com Accommodations: Rooms/suites

As one of Orange County’s premier luxury resorts, Monarch Beach Resort is simply stunning. Southern California at its best: where guests enjoy an array of activities, world-class dining, exceptional services, and the Miraval Spa. Robert Trent Jones, Jr.’s Monarch Beach Golf Links features rolling greens, tight fairways and dramatic views of the Pacific Ocean.

Enjoy the timeless craftsman charm of The Lodge at Torrey Pines, which overlooks the world-renowned Torrey Pines Golf Course with views of the Pacific Ocean. Perched above the cliffs, Torrey Pines is one of California's most iconic golfing destinations. Guests enjoy priority tee times at the two 18-hole golf courses (North and South).

Photography: The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club

>> GET THE LOOK: BRADLEY ALLAN bradley-allan.com

Oxford Pique Pocket Polo MSRP: $89.00

Stretch Gabardine Pant MSRP: $94.00

10.

THE NAPLES BEACH HOTEL & GOLF CLUB Location: Naples, Florida Website: naplesbeachhotel.com Accommodations: Rooms/suites overlooking the Gulf of Mexico

The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club has been part of the community since 1946, and features a white sand beach, luxury spa, tennis center, Kids Club and more. It is now better than ever after a $50 million renovation with brilliant results – including a major golf course renovation with Jack Nicklaus and John Sanford, creating a truly one-of-a-kind golf experience.

Stretch Web Belt MSRP: $45.00

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Photography: Omni Ranch Las Palmas Resort

Feature Golf Resorts Photography: Nemacolin Woodlands Resort

11.

NEMACOLIN WOODLANDS RESORT Location: Farmington, Pennsylvania Website: nemacolin.com Accommodations: Rooms/suites and vacation homes (and Pet Resort & Spa)

There is something for everyone at Nemacolin Woodlands Resort. Activities include a shooting academy, wildlife academy, zip lines, climbing wall and an off-road driving academy for outdoor enthusiasts; and a casino, spa, 15 restaurants/lounges and more for everyone to enjoy. Tee it up on the Pete Dye-designed Mystic Rock golf course, and in July, the property will open Shepherd’s Rock (also by Pete Dye).

Photography: Park Hyatt Aviara

12.

OMNI RANCH LAS PALMAS RESORT & SPA Location: Rancho Mirage, California Website: luxegetaways.info/omni-ranch Accommodations: Rooms/suites

13.

PARK HYATT AVIARA RESORT, GOLF CLUB & SPA Location: Carlsbad, California Website: aviara.park.hyatt.com Accommodations: Rooms/suites

Located on 240 acres (97 hectares), the Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa has recently been renovated to include a fresh, new color palette, expanded fitness center, refurbished spa, redesigned boutiques and multiple pools. 27 holes of championship golf wind through palm tree-lined fairways and gently rolling terrain, surrounded by amazing views of the San Jacinto and San Bernardino mountains.

Situated on Southern California’s sun-drenched Pacific Coast, Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, Golf Club & Spa is a luxurious Carlsbad hotel where guests enjoy the highest level of services and amenities.

The championship Arnold Palmer 18-hole layout is one of the most picturesque courses you can play, and the ultimate destination for golf in north San Diego.

Photography: Pebble Beach Resorts

www.eccousa.com

Men’s Cool 18 GTX MSRP: $280.00

Women’s Casual Hybrid Knit MSRP: $160.00

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14.

PEBBLE BEACH RESORTS Location: Pebble Beach, California Website: www.pebblebeach.com Accommodations: Rooms/suites in several locations – (Fairway One is opening late summer with modern rooms and cottages)

Certainly one of the most popular golfing venues in the world, a visit to Pebble Beach Resorts is on everyone’s must-do list. The Pebble Beach Company has so much to offer guests with The Lodge at Pebble Beach™, The Inn at Spanish Bay™ and Casa Palmero®. Golfers love to play Pebble Beach Golf Links®, Spyglass Hill® Golf Course, The Links at Spanish Bay™ and Del Monte™ Golf Course – all part of the Pebble Beach Resorts experience!

Photography: PGA National Resort & Spa

Feature Golf Resorts Photography: The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples

16.

THE RITZ-CARLTON GOLF RESORT, NAPLES Location: Naples, Florida Website: luxegetaways.info/ritz-fl Accommodations: Rooms/suites (we suggest Club Level Access rooms/suites)

15.

PGA NATIONAL RESORT & SPA Location: Palm Beach Gardens, Florida Website: pgaresort.com Accommodations: Rooms/suites, cottages and private homes

At this legendary resort, luxury is always the standard, and golf is never considered just a game – together the two create an enviable lifestyle experience at PGA National Resort & Spa. Anchored by five championship golf courses, this amazing resort also boasts a world-class destination spa, a private state-of-the-art sports & racquet club and an exclusive private membership.

Country club sophistication and old-world charm intermingle in the casual, yet elegant setting of The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples, complete with private white sands beaches. Tiburón Golf Club is comprised of two 18-hole championship courses, designed by golf legend Greg Norman. Reflecting Norman’s appreciation for pristine natural settings and his passion for great golf (and attacking life), the picturesque courses feature stacked sod wall bunkers, coquina shell waste bunkers and no conventional rough.

Photography: Sea Pines Resort

18.

Photography: Salishan Spa & Golf Resort

SEA PINES RESORT Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina Website: seapines.com Accommodations: Rooms/suites, and private villas/homes

This legendary Hilton Head destination features five miles of unspoiled beaches, 21 clay tennis courts, 14 miles of biking and walking trails, horseback riding, Eco-Adventures, water sports, and the 605-acre (245-hectares) Sea Pines Forest Preserve filled with wildflowers, wetlands and more than 130 species of birds. One of the crown jewels in the world of golf, The Sea Pines Resort is home to Pete Dye’s classic Harbour Town Golf Links, as well as Heron Point by Pete Dye, and Atlantic Dunes by Davis Love III.

>> SHARPEN YOUR GAME TECHNOLOGY

Arccos 360 MSRP: $249.99 arccosgolf.com

SkyPro $169.95 shop.skygolf.com

17.

SALISHAN SPA & GOLF RESORT Location: Gleneden Beach, Oregon Website: salishan.com Accommodations: Several categories of rooms/suites

Only two hours from Portland, Salishan Spa & Golf Resort sits among 250 beautiful acres (101 hectares) along the Oregon Coast. Originally designed as an upscale lodge, the resort now showcases an art collection featuring Northwest artists. Guests enjoy the incredible spa/wellness programs, the indoor tennis facilities, and teeing it up. Surrounded by the towering fir and spruce trees, and the tranquil waters of Siletz Bay, golf here is a magnificent challenge.

SkyCaddie Linx GT (Game Tracking Edition) MSRP: $349.95 shop.skygolf.com LUX EG E TAWAYS.C OM

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Photography: St. Regis Princeville Resort

Feature Golf Resorts Photography: Silverado Resort & Spa, Napa

19.

SILVERADO RESORT & SPA, NAPA Location: Napa Valley, California Website: silveradoresort.com Accommodations: Rooms/suites, mansion estates and cottages

For fans of the best wines produced in the famous Napa Valley Wine Country, combined with sensational golf, Silverado Resort & Spa, Napa is at the heart of it all. Guests can experience the local wineries, or stay on the property to take advantage of the luxury spa and wellness programs. Two PGA championship golf courses await those looking to sharpen their games while attacking dozens of water crossings while playing among the towering oak trees.

Available at trendygolfusa.com

Mitchell Ventil8 Plus Polo MSRP: $130.00

Noah Trouser MSRP: $185.00

ST. REGIS PRINCEVILLE RESORT Location: Kaua’i, Hawaii Website: stregisprinceville.com Accommodations: Rooms/suites

Bow ½ Windstopper MSRP: $360.00

20.

Golf in Kaua’i is a thrilling experience, and the Makai Golf Club at The St. Regis Princeville Resort is simply perfection.

Numerous outdoor adventures, world-class dining, and a luxury spa create a very special getaway. The golf course winds its way around serene lakes, native woodlands and the impressive coastline with views of Bali Hai and Hanalei Bay. Do not miss an opportunity to experience everything that this golf resort has to offer its guests.

Photography: The Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club

21.

THE VINOY RENAISSANCE ST. PETERSBURG RESORT & GOLF CLUB Location: St. Petersburg, Florida Website: luxegetaways.info/vinoy Accommodations: Rooms/suites

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Leave your worries behind, and enjoy The Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club’s services and amenities, such as the tennis courts, bike rentals, hiking trails, boating/sailing; or simply relaxing by the pools or visiting the spa. The golf course is very unique, as it is a certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary where they are a refuge for wildlife, and each hole is surrounded by diverse vegetation including over a dozen varieties of palms.

Getaways Australia

The Best of Australia with One&Only Resorts

BY PRISCILLA PILON A place to pause and connect with life is a goal of One&Only Resorts, and these exceptional properties in Australia make this feeling a part of everyday life.

Australia as a destination is synonymous with adventure. It offers travelers a front row seat to experience nature and wildlife as it was intended to be experienced – effortlessly. Aquatic and coastal experiences are plentiful and beautiful. The food, wine and beer culture is unique and uncomplicated.

Dynamic cities are alive with the arts and history. Every season has its charm, and the allure of exploring native lands and culture is undeniably strong.

Photography: Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley

After an all too short visit to three Australian destinations – Hayman Island, Wolgan Valley and Sydney, I knew that I had barely scratched the surface of things to do and see in this captivating country. Nevertheless, that small taste made me excited to plan my next Australian getaway. From the impeccable service and amenities that come with the glorious One&Only properties, to the once-in-a-lifetime experiences along the way, here is just a sample of what excited me most about this Australian adventure.

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One&Only Hayman Island Australia has seven states, each with coastal waters envied by landlocked nations, but Queensland wins top prize for the UNESCO-designated Great Barrier Reef. With 3,000 kilometers of coral reefs, these island resorts provide launching points for travelers chasing after world-class snorkeling and diving.

The One&Only Hayman Island is a sophisticated, yet laid-back option with incredible private seaplane excursions that provide breathtaking aerial views of Bait, Hardy Reef, Heart Reef and the most exquisite of all, the Outer Reef.

However, a favorite adventure alternative is a simpler pleasure – a short launch ride to Langford Island for a picnic lunch where you will be one of only a handful of visitors to the uninhabited sandy spit. It was here that I dined under the shade of a nautical umbrella, sipped chilled champagne, watched majestic sea turtles surface for air, and swam with fish whose brilliant colors rivaled the colors of the most vibrant rainbow. luxegetaways.info/hayman Photography: One&Only Hayman Island

Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley It is difficult to express the authentic uniqueness of Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley. It is a conservation resort with private villas, and a 7,000-acre preserve located between two national parks – the Wollemi and Gardens of Stone. Looking for a bit of adventure, we were dropped off in the middle of the nature reserve in the greater Blue Mountains with a picnic lunch and a frosty bottle of pink bubbly. We sat under a leafy limb of an ancient gum tree to take advantage of the shade while perched on the highest overlook point. The views were breathtaking, and we even spotted movement in the bushes nearby that grabbed our attention.

We were suddenly eye-to-eye with a joey (baby kangaroo). I quickly grabbed my camera to capture this priceless moment, but the joey proved faster than me and had leaped back into his mother’s pouch before I could take the photo. Despite my lack of camera readiness, this unique adventure proved to be amazing for photographing the wildlife and awe-inspiring views. luxegetaways.info/wolgan

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SPRING 2017 Photography: Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley

© Can Stock Photo / Ostill

Top 3 Cocktail Experiences in Sydney

1. GRAIN Bar at The Four Seasons Looking for similar experiences, but with a smaller price tag? More affordable chic boutique resorts with amazing reef diving can be found on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, The Whitsunday Islands and on the Gold Coast. luxegetaways.info/gb-reef

Did you know that kangaroos have an excellent sense of smell, but that their eyesight only responds to moving objects? For example, if you silently ride horseback through Wolgan Valley, the curious marsupials will perhaps come close enough to provide you with that perfect Instagram snapshot.

This is a great after work business spot. Alex, the bar manager, makes an entertaining and delicious Swipe Right libation with Gin, Cointreau, egg white, lemon, and fresh mango puree topped with strawberry fairy floss (cotton candy). www.grainbar.com.au

2. BLU BAR ON 36 at The Shangri-La Hotel Reservations are a must here if you plan to enjoy the magnificent sunset views of Sydney Harbour. Famous for the Hendrick’s Gin and fruity liquors based mélange named after notorious gang member, the Madame Devine. It is just as pretty as it is divine. (pun intended). luxegetaways.info/blu36

3. The Wild Rover This speakeasy bar in Surrey Hills has a playful atmosphere, and is noteworthy for their drinks like the Go Figure (a.k.a. go fig) made from fig infused Don Julio Blanco Tequila, lime juice, agave nectar, egg white and pistachio. www.thewildrover.com.au

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