Without a doubt travel enriches ones life, you discover not only new places and things to do but you also discover more about yourself. That’s how I felt when I visited Palazzo Venart, I discovered that to find peace and tranquility; trees, flowers and birds, in a city that is brimming with life, is of utmost importance to me.
To go down the Grand Canal in a Vaporetto and see the splendour, colours and heritage, makes you feel so immensely aware of the importance of looking after our past to ensure a healthy and prosperous future.
Therefore responsible travel, hotels, and brands that apply an environmental friendly business management, restaurants that offer locally sourced produce, will ensure that we collectively look after what is dear to us so that we can continue to enjoy discovering our world’s riches, natural and man-made and ourselves.
Photo by Sebastian Marc Graham Front cover Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II Milan / Palazzo Venart Venice’s best kept secret
Sebastian (Spain) is celebrating the 100th anniversary of the birth of the
San
artist Eduardo Chillida
Phoebe Considers her Suitors Enamel on canvas, 100x100cm, 2023
The old city of Mudu
Dangkou by night
A scenic view of the river Haohe
The Duomo, Milan’s iconic Cathedral Duomo
The wonderful thing about travelling on your own is that you are able to watch a story be told in front of you. You are not bounded by anyone and you are free to interact or detract yourself from the place you are. You get to experience the city in a whole different scope.
It was time to call it a night. And though I didn’t hit the sack until 3am I woke up early the next day fresh and rejuvenated and thrilled for my first Cappuccino in Milan. By pure accident I stumbled inside Marchesi, above the Prada store, in Galleria Vittorio Emanuele. I was trying to find the Prada foundation but my appetite got the best of me and instead I found a treasure trove of Dolci delights. Marchesi is a beautiful space, owned by Prada, they spared no effort on the design.
The Green velvet sofas, the floral printed wallpapers and waitresses in elegant black and white attire provided me the ideal morning spot. However, the most impressive thing about this particular Marchesi boutique, a Milan institution from 1824, is the panoramic view over the Galleria. No doubt the most impressive place I have had breakfast. The Dolci are just as remarkable as the view. I tried a variety of sweet treats from scrumptious Zeppole´s filled with Custard, Pistachio and Italian Meringue.
Suffice to say the best pastries that I’ve tasted and so good I took a whole bag home.
It was time to digest my breakfast and so I decided to stroll along Via Monte Napoleone, and after trying on some Gucci sneakers, I headed to the Bagatti Valsecchi Museum on Via Gesu. I had this 16th century Palazzo on my wish list for some time. The Rich interiors are adorned with Renaissance motifs and artwork. The historic building was once the home of barons Fausto and Giuseppe Bagatti Valsecchi.
Their fascination with the renaissance is clear. The Museum gives a real insight to decadent lives and desires of Milan´s elite of yesteryear. Milan´s elite of 2024 dine in the stunning courtyard of Il Sulamaio di Monte Napoleone. The restaurant is sheltered by the Valsecchi museum. The elegant statues and mosaic floors make this Milan´s most elegant eatery.
However, I wanted to be among Milan´s models and designers. So where better than the Dolce & Gabbana bar just off Corso Venezia. Lavish decors and a stunning courtyard filled with exotic plants and cactuses it’s a real oasis in this busy part of town. Not only do the friendly waitress look, and are dressed, as Dolce models but the vibe shouts high fashion. Ultimately it celebrates the ethos and aesthetic of Stefano and Domenico.
The Martini´s are the drink to order here accompanied with delicious anti pasti…
Stefano & Domenico left me inspired and I headed to Monte Napoleone to document Milan´s peoples. What I love most about this city is that style is paramount. The people, the stores and the restaurants are all about looking good and showing that you are proud to be from Milan.
I sat on a bench and photographed the runway of style and sophistication that paraded up and down the street... great pictures for my Instagram!
My time in Milan was soon coming to a close but before I had to board my flight to my next destination I had to go one last time to the Galleria, that I fell so much in love with, and Marchesi. I took an order to go and a sweet reminder of this great city Milan. A Milano moment I won’t forget and will soon repeat….
Lavish decors and a stunning courtyard at The Dolce & Gabbana bar
A L u Prada Versace Louis Vuitton C u e h u M s n s m u L A A z L A p u A l L A L L A o h r N c
C A eP A i N C eR A S L u t 3t a h p A N L Marchesi F A N V F Marchesi b u i M ht A n 1824o C e d t m h d t u h (Marchesi)
Burlamacchi Palace
Today the home of the interior architect Stef Albert Bothma
To visit Palazzo Burlamacchi in Luca Italy
www.palazzoducale.luc
ca.it/en
Once the home of Pope Lucius III in the 12th Century, and later the seat of the esteemed Burlamacchi family, Palazzo Burlamacchi remains one of Lucca’s most historic buildings. Today, the entire first floor is the home of award-winning interior architect and designer Stef Albert Bothma.
Having lived in Los Angeles and New York over the past twenty years, Stef Albert settled on Lucca as the perfect retreat, central to his projects in Russia, USA, Asia, Europe and United Kingdom.
Whether designing a private family estate or the interior of a luxurious yacht, his celebrated creativity never ceases to thrill his discerning clients.
Stef-Albert’s designs consistently reflect his extraordinary, diverse abilities in the fine arts and music.
Restored to their original glory, the rooms are now as they once may have been with the addition of modern day comforts. “I wanted to create a home for myself and not a museum. Every room has its own character and the process of blending old with new has been very rewarding. While some details were restored and others added, balance and proportion were my guiding posts.”
With a strong emphasis on French Empire in some rooms (Napoleon crowned his sister Princess of the region), others are strongly Italian and particularly 18th Century Tuscan.
For example, the main salon, entirely hand painted in green hues characteristic of Tuscany and in particular, the region of Lucca and Pisa.
Overlooking the historic Boccherini Conservatorio di Musica, the music room in particular holds a special connection for Stef Albert who also holds a Doctorate in Piano from the University of Washington. Adding modern art with accurate scale to balance the 4 meter ceilings somehow ties the past with the present.
The dining room with its fine gypsum details can seat 34 people on special occasions and used as an open gallery when not in formal use.
Original 18th century fabric panels in custom coloration were created by Zuber in Paris to line the walls of the Empire Bedroom. While antiquities compliment the rooms throughout, all practical pieces were custom designed by Stef Albert to meet the demanding scale of the vast rooms.
Palazzo Burlamacchi remains one of Lucca’s most historic buildings
Stef Albert Bothma Stef Albert 20
Stef Albert Stef-Albert
https://www.palazzoducale.lucca.it/en
Palazzo Burlamacchi
Travel - Waiting to be discovered
Stef Albert
Stef Albert (Zuber)
Stef Albert
Rome Eternally Enchanting
Steeped in history
Rome needs no introduction it’s one of the most ancient, historic, iconic and captivating cities in the world. Rome is overwhelming and a sensation for the senses with sights and art around every corner.
Even locals discover new relics and city workers unearth new treasures every time roads and buildings are unearthed.
Visiting Rome is an emotional experience. Its hard to come by Rome’s sheer beauty and grandeur. Rome’s colossal urban fabric consumes travellers and your are enveloped in a time warp. Rome is the home of Julius Caesar and Emperor Augustus.
Steeped in history, spanning 28 centuries, its has tested the sands of time. It’s one of the oldest continuously occupied cities on the globe. Rome became the capital of the roman Kingdom, Roman Republic and the roman empire.
Regarded as the birthplace of Western Civilisation and is referenced throughout history as the capital of the world. Rome has emerged in the 21st century as Global city with a World wide appeal.
A
The images of Anita Ekberg under the Trevi fountain and Gregory Peck and Audrey Hepburn wizzing through the Roman Capital on vespa’s paint a timeless and romantic image that resonates till this day.
Rome is filled with so many treasures and iconic monuments it’s almost impossible to see everything in one trip.
However, the Colosseum, Saint Peters Cathedral, the Sistine Chapel, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon and the Spanish Steps are essentials.
Rome is brimming with tourists, so to avoid the crowds and queues, visit in the low season, between October to April, and book entrance tickets in advance.
time warp
Area Sacra di Largo Argentina
The Pantheon
Trevi Fountain
ITALY
Text & Photos by Sebastian Marc Graham
But even if you see the main sights you are still scratching the surface as Rome is in essence a masterpiece.
Take a trip across the Tiber river and explore Rome’s Trastevere neighbourhood.
This district is where Romans live and play. Charming, bohemian. Its labyrinthine streets are teeming with life and soul. Trastevere shows Rome’s more humble and authentic side. Basilica di Santa Cecilia lies in the heart of the district and features Pietro Cavallini's stunning 13th-century fresco.
But ultimately the best way to explore Rome is to loose yourself and wander.
Roam around Rome and take in the beautiful churches, sculptures and monuments.
Live the cafe culture, never order a cappuccino after 11am clear sign of being a tourist, observe stunning art in the sistine chapel and immerse yourself in the Dolce Vita.
Get off the beaten track feed your curiosity and explore Rome’s many neighbourhoods and celebrate the Italian way of life. And don’t forget When in Rome, do as the Romans do!
Trastevere
La Dolce Vita
Hotel de Russie Via del Babuino, 9
Roma’s best address, this is the most glamorous and sophisticated Hotel in the city. De Russia is Located on Via Del Babuino, Rome’s golden Mile footsteps from Piazza del Popolo and the famed Spanish Steps. Apart from being surrounded by the designer stores of via Candotti and Via Babuino De Russie is a true oasis from the Roman beat. It’s secret garden is an ideal place to unwind , especially in the warmer months, over cocktails and under the shade of the trees.
Book the Picasso Suite was where Picasso called home in 1917. Recently refurbished the suite celebrates Picasso’s work and persona boasting vibrant furniture, lithographs and Picasso folio books, handcrafted tapestry cushions with Portrait De Dora Maar. Chill on the terrace that Picasso and Jean Cocteau
Hollywood stars, especially during the rose film festival, flock here all the time so make sure to book in advance at Rome’s most solicited hotel.
Hassler Roma Piazza della Trinità dei Monti, 6
Hassler Roma boasts a magical location towering over the Spanish steps and adjacent to Villa Borghese. Classical and oozing elegance the hotel is famed for its panoramic views and Michelin starred restaurant Imago.
Fendi was founded in Rome and it exudes the city's passion and ethos. The Fashion’s house flagship is located in a beautiful Palazzo on Via Condotti. The Ultrachic Fendi hotel is super exclusive with only seven suites. Dominating the buzzing Via dei Condotti the Hotel is a modern oasis in the middle of the designer stores and tourists. The rooms feel like a Fendi Casa showroom showcasing Fendi’s design and artisanship. This noble space is an absolute juxtaposition of contemporary design and Roman Glamour and the most unique accommodation in the city
Hotel Eden Via Ludovisi, 49
Built in 1889 this Grand Luxe hotel has recently gone under a major overhaul and new management. The Dorchestor Collection has set the bar for luxury in Rome. Oppulent and grand rooms bond well with the fresh and lush rooftop. La Libreria is a true hidden treasure and the perfect place to chat, read the morning paper or have a late night grappa before bed. Voted in 2017 as Europe’s best new hotel this is Rome’s latest premier address.
Hotels
Fendi Private Suites Via della Fontanella di Borghese, 48
Hotel de Russie
Piazza della Republica
Bvulgari Roof
terrace
Restaurants & Bars
Rome is a delight for the palette, with hundreds of trattorias, Osterias and Ristorantes it’s good to know where to go and what to eat to avoid tourist traps.
Despite the obvious pizzeria joints there’s plenty of top dining experiences offering a range of cuisines and budgets. Remember to eat in season in order to enjoy true local delicacies. In the spring artichokes and Zucchini flowers are in season. Autumn is funghi and truffle season!
Like in most Mediterranean cultures Romans are famed for their love of life and like to eat and play on the streets. Young Romans fill the narrow old town streets and drink, smoke and have a merry time with friends.
The city is their playground and its is fun to join in on the action to really capture the authentic Roman night experience.
Zuma Via della Fontanella di Borghese, 48
Located on the 4th floor of the ultra chic Fendi hotel Zuma arrived in Rome in 2016 and has shaken the local restaurant scene in the city.
This is where Rome’s fashion set, TV personalities and socialites mix and mingle. The World famous locale is inspired by the informal style of Izakaya dining, modern Japanese cuisine that is famously authentic but not traditional. Reservations are strongly recommended.
Trattoria da Teo
Located in Trastevere and hidden on a small square this trattoria provides authentic home cooking in a cozy and casual setting. The seasonal specialities like Artichoke are divine and the Pasta all'amatriciana is a Roman classic. End your meal with a sweet delight the mascarpone with wild strawberries. Locals and tourists in the know fill this Trattoria every night so make sure to book in advance.
Armando al Pantheon Salita dei Crescenzi, 31 adjacent to the marvellous Pantheon sits Armando. Tucked away on a side streets its easy to skip this great locale. This restaurant is always full with locals and tourists and serves classic Italian dishes in a timeless space.
Colosseum
Forum Romanum
Via Condotti, leading to the Piazza di Spagna
Lupa who nursed Remus & Romulus
Piazza del Campidoglio
Forum Romanum
Hyde Park
A Greek lunch at Menoo
Eclectic Food
Nottinghill Gate
The London Look Mount Street
London Calling
Often referred to as the New York of Europe London is one of the leading global cities and is filled with history and intrigue. Cosmopolitan, diverse and open minded London embodies Britain’s best values.
London’s identity is multicultural. People from all corners of the globe have reshaped and left their mark on the city.
From Chinatown to Bangla TownLondon prides itself on its diversity and community.
A city with a global identity and British Heritage
London has reinvented itself throughout history. Neighbourhoods are constantly changing and construction is frenetic. Despite the ever changing skyline and the gentrification of inner city London, it maintains its global identity and British heritage. Its distinct neighbourhoods offer different stories.
From the leafy streets of chic Chelsea to the edgy and electric vibe of Shoreditch, there is a space for everyone. This is an essence of London’s global appeal. It’s a place where people can establish their identity, grow as a person and release their inhibitions.
People from all walks of life, lifestyles and ambitions coexist in harmony and collectively make London one of the best cities on the globe.
World class museums and galleries abound. From the British Museum to Tate Modern, London excels in cultural institutions. Art, history and culture is celebrated and embraced throughout the city.
There's plenty to see and do in London from the landmarks of Big Ben and the London Eye to the iconic neighbourhoods of Notting Hill, Soho or South Kensington.
London is a compact city easy to explore and constantly evolving.
Words and Photos by Sebastian Marc
Mayfair
below: Soho
London is one of the big four fashion capitals with big brands like Burberry and Topshop and luxury designers such as the late Alexander McQueen, Stella McCartney and Vivienne Westwood. London is a premier shopping destination from the tailoring hot spot of Saville Row to the famous department stores of Harrods, Selfridges and Harvey Nichols- London is a shopping Mecca.
A launch pad for many national and international designers; Londoners embrace their individuality through fashion and style.
Embrace the city and your personality through London fashion and get your London look.
London is a fantastic city and worth coming back to many times because as the saying goes “when a man is tired of London, he is tired of life. For there is in London all that life can afford.”
Sebastian Marc studied at Westminster University London whilst living 3 years in Chelsea.
London is a launch pad for fashion designers
My favourite Hotels
The Connaught Carlos Place Mayfair
London’s premier address this Grand Luxe hotel sits in the heart of Mayfair on the ultra-chic Mount Street. A favourite for movie stars and celebrities this is the ideal Hotel for those who wish to shop in Mayfair and enjoy the numerous restaurants.
Claridge’s Brook St, Mayfair
This opulent landmark art deco hotel dates from 1856. Minutes way from the flagship stores of Bond Street this hotel oozes style and sophistication. Its 1930’s bar is unique and the lavish lounge is ideal for afternoon tea.
Rosewood London 252 High Holborn
Metres away form the British museum and the Royal Opera House lies the Rosewood London hotel. One of the most recent additions to the luxury hotel scene, the Rosewood is luxurious and refined.
Four Seasons Hotel London
10 Trinity Square
In the heart of the city of London is the recently opened Four Seasons hotel. Housed in the former Port Authority building this grand luxe hotel has turned the neighbourhood into a 24 hour luxury destination.
Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park
66 Knightsbridge
Overlooking Hyde Park this sumptuous hotel is located in the epicentre of Knightsbridge. Adjacent to Harrods, Harvey Nichols and Sloane Streets this location is a shopper’s paradise.
Decorated in rich births style this hotel is acclaimed for its premier service and outstanding Mandarin oriental quality.
London is a melting pot of international cuisine. Famed global chefs have turned London into a culinary Mecca. From sushi in a skyscraper to Mexican food in an underground Soho nightclub. London offers cuisine to match any taste bud and endless culinary options.
C London 23/25 Davies St, Mayfair
Legendary Italian food C London offers classic Cipriani dishes in a elegant space. C London is always filled with an international clientele who comes in their droves for Bellini's and the celebrate chocolate cake.
Sexy Fish Berkeley Square House Berkeley Square, Mayfair
This Swanky art filled restaurant is one of the hottest tables in town. From sushi to grilled Lobster this is an elegant yet fun option in the heart of Mayfair.
Scott’s 20 Mount St, Mayfair
Serving traditional fish and shellfish dishes this is a Mayfair institution. With its elegant interiors and oyster and champagne bar this is one of the most sophisticated dinning options in Mayfair.
The Phene 9 Phene St, Chelsea
Metres away from the iconic Albert Bridge is the Phene. This clubhouse styled pub is a favourite for locals. Made famous in the hit show Made in Chelsea this a great place to relax with friends over drinks.
Estiatorio Milos 1 Regent Street St James´s, St. James
The High-end, white-tablecloth Greek restaurant has revitalised Saint James street. Its signature Greek dishes take you straight to the Mediterranean. Make sure you try the grilled octopus and the taramasalata to start. The Lobster Pasta is the perfect choice for main. Reservations are strongly recommend especially at night.
La Bodega Negra 16 Moor St, Soho
Soho is food central and the best Mexican is found here at La Bodega Negra. Its very Soho with its neon signs but the real fun starts when you descend the stairs and hit the fired up vibe of this club styled restaurant. Tacos and Tequila are the staple at this fun and quirky space.
Balthazar 4-6 Russell St,
This New York City import is where Movie directors and Film stars flock to. In the heart of Covent Garden, Balthazar has brought about a culinary revolution in the area. Expect French flavours with New York flair.
The Ivy Chelsea Garden 195 -197 King's Road, Chelsea
The Ivy restaurants are popping up all over London but its Kings Road locale is the most attractive. Offering modern British styled cuisine, The Ivy has a fantastic atmosphere and its garden and design are an Instagram favourite. Reservations are strongly recommend.
Bond Street
The Sydney Arms 70 Sydney St, Chelsea
This classic pub is quintessential Chelsea. Informal yet elegant it’s located on Sydney street next to Saint Luke church. A hit with locals and the after-work set.
Zefi Restaurant 103 Walton St, Chelsea
Zefi lies in the heart of one of Chelsea’s coolest streets Walton street. Zefi offers Italian food to an international and young clientele. Especially busy during the weekends it boasts a lively and fun atmosphere. This is where the cool kids come to let loose after a busy week of uni!
Sketch 9 Conduit St, Mayfair
Sketch is a few years old but it is still one of the hottest spots in town. Its quirky and unique design has turned Sketch into a destination. From its pink velvet restaurant to the egg formed toilets this is a place that is a must for any one visiting London.
Chiltern Firehouse 1 Chiltern St, Marylebone, London W1U 7PA, UK
In the design conscience Marylebone district lies Chiltern Firehouse. This elegant hotel and restaurant sits in a former firehouse. Its warm interiors and charming terrace attract guests and locals from breakfast to dinner.
offers
SUSHISAMBA London Heron Tower, 110 Bishopsgate
At the top of the Heron Tower lies the restaurant with the best view in town.
Sushisamba offers JapaneseBrazilian-Peruvian sushi in cool design setting with panoramic London views. Reservations are strongly recommended.
SOJU & CO 32 Great Windmill St, Soho
Soho foodie revolution continues with Soju and Co. This Korean restaurant delivers Korean delights such as Korean Fried Chicken and of course Soju in the heart of Soho.
Ronnie Scott's 47 Frith St, Soho
Although you can enjoy dinner here Ronnie Scott’s is famed for its jazz and Blues.
The World’s top musicians have all performed live here. This basement club in the heart of soho is a must for those who love live music in an iconic setting. London
A treasure trove
& Sebastian Marc Graham
Chelsea Shoreditch
Burberry Topshop Alexander McQueen Stella McCartney Vivienne Westwood
Saville Row Harrods Selfridges Harvey Nichols
Sebastian Marc
www.fourseasons.com/tentrinity
Anne-Sophie Pic
La Dame de Pic Mei Ume Rotunda
www.fourseasons.com/london/ Mayfair
Ambassador Suites Mayfair Suite Westminster Suite Amaranto
Enrique Sancho Cespedosa, Director OPEN COMUNICACIÓN jetcost.es / jetcost.co.uk
Photographers
Stathis Bouzoukas
Copyright ,
Sue Carter
Journalist, brand consultant & fashion entrepreneur Sue Carter is based in London. Stories of places, people and creativity, especially art, are what inspires her writing.
Her work has featured in many international publications including The Irish Times, The Sunday Times and Conde Nast titles.
