Aventura Magazine December 2023

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EDGY EVENING WEAR FOR HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS

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DECEMBER 2023 | AVENTURAMAGAZINE.COM FOR THE LATEST IN ALL THINGS LUXURY

54

JERRY RABINOWITZ

Home for the holidays, Miami Beach style, with Michael Dolatowski and Juan Salazar

FEATURES 54 MINGLE AND JINGLE

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62 COOL TAKES ON HOT DRINKS

68 OPULENT ORCHIDS

Creatives Michael Dolatowski and Juan Salazar throw a posh party in their Belle Isle condo

Warm and wonderful libations suited for winter celebrations

Dazzle with red, green, white, and gold jewelry that offers chic seasonal sparkle

By Linda Marx

By Jules Aron

By Mary Murray

74 LADY OF THE MANOR Evening attire that’s the perfect mix of edgy and feminine Photography by Gabor Jurina

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CONTENTS

41 DEPARTMENTS 14

FROM THE EDITOR

AVENTURIST 19 HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS Three ways to make merry in the Magic City

22 THE MIX Oolite Arts’ short film festival presents on-screen love letters to Little Haiti, and the Fontainebleau Miami Beach celebrates 40 years of Scarface with Oscar winner Al Pacino

24 SPOTLIGHT Glide into the season at four of Miami’s coolest iceskating rinks

TOM PFEIFFER

26 PROFILE

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ON THE COVER: MODEL: ZLATA SEMENKO PHOTOGRAPHER: GABOR JURINA LOCATION: VIZCAYA MUSEUM & GARDENS, MIAMI CLOTHING: OSCAR DE LA RENTA GOWN; LOUIS VUITTON HEELS. FOR BUYING INFORMATION, TURN TO PAGE 98.

Haute holiday hall-decker Adam Floyd shares his tips for drool-worthy displays

28 GUIDE From fairs to exhibits, our picks for Art Week’s hottest happenings

STYLE 31 THE LOOK Fashionable games, plus shimmering accessories

34 THE EDIT Florida-made finds for everyone on your gift list

36 JEWELRY BOX Frost yourself with snowflake jewelry

38 BEAUTY Set a sultry scene with aromatic candles

JOURNEYS 41 WANDERLUST ASHLEY MEYER

A global tour of Earth’s most captivating volcanoes

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46 QUICK TRIPS The Willcox hotel epitomizes the best of Aiken, South Carolina

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CONTENTS

85 48 FLORIDIANA Three reasons to fall in love with Little Palm Island all over again

50 HIGH ROAD The Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 SUV excites the senses

52 HIGH SEAS The Prestige M8 is a beach house fit for the seas

SIP & SAVOR 85 OPENINGS COURTESY OF THE HENRY

A new neighborhood favorite serves up fine American fare in Brickell City Centre

86 Q&A Chef Michael Beltran dishes on his star-studded Magic City restaurant portfolio

88 LOCAL BITES Mr. O1 pizza makes its mark across South Florida, and Kleansweets delivers nutritious and delicious plantbased desserts

90 MINDFUL MIXOLOGIST An apple cocktail to keep spirits bright

HOME 93 INTERIORS A young couple revives a historical villa in Coconut Grove

94 BY DESIGN Incorporate an in-home bar wtith these simple tips

95 ELEMENTS Say yes to more with maximalism

96 INSPIRED LIVING What’s hot in contemporary fireplaces

SOCIAL STUDIES 99 SEEN ON THE SCENE

93 8

KRIS TAMBURELLO

Pics from Miami-Dade’s most fabulous events

LAST LOOK 104 SHELL YEAH Roger Abramson’s seashell-encrusted menorah lights the night on Lincoln Road

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Editorial Director Daphne Nikolopoulos Editor in Chief Kristen Desmond LeFevre Creative Director Olga M. Gustine Executive Editor Mary Murray Fashion Editor Katherine Lande Automotive Editor Howard Walker Travel Editor Paul Rubio Libations Editor Jules Aron Web Editor Abigail Duffy DESIGN Art Directors Airielle Farley, Ashley Meyer, Jenny Fernandez-Prieto Digital Imaging Specialist Leonor Alvarez-Maza

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FROM THE EDITOR

CAPEHART

HAUTE HOLIDAYS X

BEHIND THE SCENES MIAMI MERRIMENT When you can’t make it home for the holidays, go with Michael Dolatowski and Juan Salazar’s plan: host your chosen family at a chic soiree to celebrate the season. The couple’s art-filled condo in Miami Beach offered the perfect place to get into the spirit of things. Photographer Jerry Rabinowitz and I were fortunate enough to nibble and nosh on chef Joe Drazenovich’s culinary creations as we captured the images to accompany Linda Marx’s festive “Mingle & Jingle” feature story.

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This season, it’s all about local vibes. Despite our lack of frost, Miami offers no shortage of chic and cheerful ways to usher in winter and its accompanying holidays. When you’re ready to start your celebrations, turn to “’Tis the Season” (beginning on page 19) for three must-not-miss performances. Or if you need a little chill to get into the spirit, check out “Paradise on Ice” (page 24) for four local spots where you can don a pair of ice skates and that parka and beanie that have been languishing in your closet. And when it’s time to break out the lights and wreaths, first read “Decking the Halls” (page 26) for inspo from decor master Adam Floyd.

At this time of year, there’s nothing better than gathering over dinner and drinks with friends who feel like family. For a peek inside a festive feast hosted at the Miami Beach home of creatives Michael Dolatowski and Juan Salazar, flip to page 54. Thinking of throwing a seasonal soiree of your own? With things finally cooling off outside, opt to cozy up with a warm winter cocktail. Turn to page 62 for “Cool Takes on Hot Drinks,” where resident mixologist Jules Aron brings us five cups of cheer you can make at home.

Regardless of the month, sparkles are always in style. For jewelry sure to delight, don’t miss Mary Murray’s “Opulent Orchids” (page 68). Or go gaga for gowns in “Lady of the Manor” (page 74), a fashion feature showcasing evening attire that’s the perfect mix of edgy and feminine, photographed at Miami’s own Vizcaya Museum & Gardens.

No matter how you choose to celebrate in December, I wish you moments of true cheer as you cherish your traditions—whatever they may be.

Kristen Desmond LeFevre klefevre@aventuramagazine.com

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HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS

’Tis the Season

NEIL GOLDBERG TEAM

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STUDIO SEEN, LLC

To make spirits bright this December, Miami offers shows featuring graceful ballerinas, jaw-dropping acrobats, and musicians decked out in their seasonal best.

Turn the page for three must-not-miss holiday performances. —Christiana Lilly

DECEMBER 2023

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AVENTURIST HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS

’Tis the Season

ALEXANDER IZILIEAV

1

Continued

A tradition ingrained into Miami’s holiday season, the Miami City Ballet brings to life a fever dream of nutcrackers, fairies, mice, dolls, and flowers with George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker. More than 100 dancers will take to the stage in the Land of Snow to tell the story of little Clara, who dreams of a battle between her toy Nutcracker and the Mouse King on the night before Christmas. The ballet company is making its annual tri-county tour and will perform at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts December 15-24. (miamicityballet.org)

Let it Snow

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This month, the Diplomat Beach Resort in Hollywood is welcoming the world premiere (and exclusive residency) of theatrical experience Pomp, Snow & Cirqueumstance. Led by Broadway producer and director Neil Goldberg, the show is based on Goldberg’s book of the same name.

Watch as three friends embark on a whirlwind journey. At a secret university, they master music, magic, and circus arts. Along the way, they encounter a myriad of characters who dazzle with aerial feats, juggling, contortions, skating, levitation, and other stunning acts. It all takes place in the Great Hall Theatre on a 360-degree stage, where a cast of 30 acrobats, magicians, singers, dancers, and others performers mesmerize to the sounds of an original musical score. Pomp, Snow & Cirqueumstance’s residency runs December 22-30. (cirqueatthediplomat.com) 20

STUDIO SEEN, LLC

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MERRY MUSIC

3

TRAVEL AROUND THE WORLD THROUGH MUSIC AS THE NEW WORLD SYMPHONY PERFORMS “SOUNDS OF THE SEASON,” A PROGRAM FILLED WITH MUSIC SPANNING DIVERSE HOLIDAY TRADITIONS AND CULTURES. IN ITS HOME AT THE NEW WORLD CENTER’S MICHAEL TILSON THOMAS PERFORMANCE HALL, THE ORCHESTRA WILL WELCOME MOLLY TURNER FOR HER MIAMI CONDUCTING DEBUT. WITH A RÉSUMÉ THAT INCLUDES LEADING THE ORCHESTRE DE PARIS, GSTAAD FESTIVAL ORCHESTRA, THEATER ORCHESTER BIEL SOLOTHURN, JUILLIARD ORCHESTRA, DALLAS OPERA ORCHESTRA, AND MANY MORE, TURNER IS SURE TO SUCCEED. THE SHOW WILL RUN DECEMBER 15-16. THE SHOW ON DECEMBER 15 IS FREE FOR RESIDENTS OF THE CITY OF MIAMI BEACH WITH PROOF OF RESIDENCY. (NWS.EDU)

NEW WORLD SYMPHONY

X

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AVENTURIST THE MIX JOSHUA JEAN-BAPTISTE R LA

A RE

ALICIA EDWARDS

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NA

Originally from Peru, filmmaker Diana Larrea says that after living in many Magic City neighborhoods, it is Little Haiti that has made her feel most at home.

“We’re always longing for our home, for something else,” she says of being an immigrant.

“What I wanted to do and what I’m trying to accomplish is just how that neighborhood welcomed me and how my Peruvian side actually fit.” Her film, Querido Pequeño Haïti, features Larrea reciting a love letter to the area in both Spanish and Creole, set over archival footage and photos she’s collected while chronicling gentrification in Miami.

DI A

For over a century, Little Haiti has served as the epicenter for Caribbean immigrants, but as the landscape of Miami changes, so does this gem of a neighborhood. Oolite Arts challenged filmmakers to pitch short films following the theme of “a love letter to Little Haiti.” Ten filmmakers were given $5,000 each to complete their projects, which will be screened this month.

Here are three of their stories. (oolitearts.org) –C.L.

X

Love for Little Haiti

Documentarian Alicia Edwards has long admired award-winning author Edwidge Danticat from afar— and when Edwards met her while working at Books & Books in college, it planted the seed for Citronelle. Edwards spent a day with the MacArthur Foundation Genius Grant winner, and together they talked about Danticat’s roles as a mother, a wife, and a writer, and her own love affair with Little Haiti.

“Most of the time that I have seen her framed, it’s always in this very academic setting—[on] C-SPAN, speaking at an Ivy League university, speaking at the Miami International Book Fair—and I think nobody or few people have had the opportunity to see her and know her as a person,” Edwards says.

THERE’S NOTHING QUITE LIKE THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN A MAN AND HIS BARBER. IN JOSHUA JEAN-BAPTISTE’S DOWN TO ZERO, THE MAIN CHARACTER IS TOLD HIS HAIRLINE IS RECEDING. “THAT IS A REALLY BIG MOMENT FOR MEN, AND I’M PARTICULARLY SPEAKING FOR BLACK MEN,” THE FILMMAKER EXPLAINS. “IT’S A HUGE INSECURITY AND PEOPLE ARE MAKING A SHIT-TON OF MONEY OFF MALE INSECURITY.” JEANBAPTISTE PLAYS THE LEAD ROLE OF A MAN LIVING THE HIGH LIFE IN THE TECH WORLD WHO RETURNS HOME TO LITTLE HAITI, WHERE HE IS HUMBLED

BY HIS BARBER. HE CHOOSES TO SHAVE HIS HEAD—A MOMENT THAT COULD MARK THE END OF THEIR RELATIONSHIP.

Say hello to my little friend! Academy Award–winning actor Al Pacino will be on-hand to celebrate the fortieth anniversary of Scarface at a once-in-a-lifetime dinner event at the Fontainebleau in Miami Beach. Guests will enjoy a three-course dinner, live music, an auction fit for Pacino superfans, and a live interview with the man himself, where he’ll dish on his lengthy career and memories from filming the cinematic classic. —C.L. 22

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AVENTURIST SPOTLIGHT

PARADISE ON ICE SKATE AWAY THE SEASON AT THESE LOCAL RINKS

BY JESSE SCOTT While the lyrics of “Let it Snow” and “White Christmas” may not describe our sizzling climate, the Miami-Dade area boasts a number of chilly hot spots. When you’re ready to put a new edge on the holiday season, head over to one of these four ice rinks, where you can bust out that parka and beanie that have been hiding in the back of your closet and get your glide on in the 305.

1 MIAMI BE ACH

MIAMI BEACH EDITION

ED ITI ON

2

Basement Skate at The Miami Beach Edition It’s been one of the Magic City’s best-kept secrets through the years: yes, there’s a 2,000-square-foot ice rink tucked below The Miami Beach Edition.

But it’s more than just a sheet of ice—it’s a nightclub, a bowling alley, and a light show–enhanced ice-skating experience all in one magical space. For those wanting to vibe out, this is it. Skating sessions cost $30 for half an hour and include skate rental. (basementmiami.com)

4 24

The Barbara Medina Ice Rink at the Scott Rakow Youth Center Want some wiggle room for refining those skating skills? Then the largest ice-skating rink in Miami Beach is for you. Spanning nearly 13,000 square feet, the Barbara Medina Ice Rink hosts public skating sessions Friday through Monday. The fees run $7 to $11 for a two-hour session and skate rentals run $6 to $9. For skating newbies, there are private and group lessons available, too. (miamibeachfl.gov)

3

Pines Ice Arena For a 305-accessible option in Broward County, try Pines Ice Arena. A popular regional destination for hockey leagues and birthday parties, this Pembroke Pines rink also has a daily public skating schedule with morning, afternoon, and evening sessions.

Its Friday and Saturday night sessions—from 8:30 to 11:30 p.m.—are the spot’s most popular offerings, with ice access for $14 and skate rental fees of $6. (pinesice.com)

Kendall Ice Arena Head over to Kendall, and you’ve got two ice-skating rinks to choose from—plus more than 17,000 square feet of wintry fun. Kendall Ice Arena typically has at least two public skating sessions daily ($16, including skate rental), one in the morning and one in the evening. On Fridays and Saturdays, a live DJ spins at night for added pizzazz. For kiddos new to skating, the spot rents out “Bobby the Seal,” a blue plastic seal that little ones can ride as you push them safely around the ice. (kendallicearena.com)

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AVENTURIST

PROFILE

DECKING THE HALLS

ADAM FLOYD’S DECEMBER DESIGNS MAKE SPIRITS BRIGHT

BY JESS SWANSON

For Adam Floyd, the holidays are more than just a season. As one of the most sought-after holiday designers in the southeastern United States, Floyd’s calendar starts filling up almost immediately after last year’s decorations are removed in January. Initial calls with clients begin as early as March, installation dates are reserved by July, and Floyd starts making site visits to take measurements and discuss color schemes in August. “I have February to kind of unwind,” Floyd says. “But then it all starts back up again.”

With outposts in Atlanta and Nashville, his firm, Adam Floyd Design, expanded to Miami when Floyd moved to the Magic City in 2019.

Since then, he has been charged with crafting some of the area’s most iconic displays, 26

including at the St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort, the Carillon Miami Wellness Resort, and the Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach. Though the holiday season seems rooted in red and green, Floyd’s Miami move led him to experiment with a whole new color palette.

“Miami is much more on the modern side of things compared to the northern cities,” Floyd explains. “In Atlanta and Nashville, you’re going to see a lot more of the traditional reds and greens, whereas in Miami we use a lot of white and do pops of color.”

Floyd looks to the fashion industry for color inspiration. If he notices a particular hue dominating the runways, he’ll try to incorporate it within his displays. Floyd suggests taking a home’s accent colors and art into account, and then experimenting with shades that complement them. For those looking to update their traditional red and green decor, he recommends inserting royal blue into the mix. But no color is off-limits, Floyd says, including black, which he has previously paired with various finishes for more daring clients.

“It doesn’t have to be all red and green,”

Floyd stresses. “You can be fun and playful with it.”

There is perhaps nothing more playful than what Floyd refers to as a bubblegum tree. “I get whatever colors that are available—pinks, purples, greens, and oranges—and [pair them] with clear, iridescent lights.”

The trees, too, don’t have to be traditional balsam firs. “I use a lot of white, silver, and champagne-colored trees,” Floyd says. “They sparkle and catch the light sometimes better than a regular green tree.”

For Floyd’s Jewish clients, he often utilizes 6-foot-tall menorahs and 3-foot-tall dreidels.

“There’s big, fun things we can play with when I’m decorating for Hanukkah,” he says.

“I don’t do a lot of blue and white, but I do a lot of silver and white.”

To give a space a cohesive look, Floyd suggests picking an element from the tree or leading Hanukkah decoration and then incorporating it into your centerpiece, mantel, garlands, and wreaths. He recommends toying with scale by sprinkling in larger ornaments to serve as focal points, and not to overlook the longer, icicle-shaped ornaments to add geometric diversity.

And Floyd’s verdict on multicolored string lights? “Love them!” (adamfloyddesign.com) «

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10/25/23 10:18 AM

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AVENTURIST

THE ART OF THE MATTER

Falling Rock (2000-2023), Charles Gaines

“CHARLES GAINES; 1992-2023” This phenomenal exhibition brings together more than 65 works from pioneering conceptual artist Charles Gaines. (icamiami.org) What to see: Gaines re-created two monumental pieces for the first time in nearly twenty years: Greenhouse (2003–2023) is a massive 12-by-16-foot sculptural enclosure that simulates climate change conditions over time; Falling Rock (2000–2023) is a sculpture that randomly drops a 65-pound chunk of granite, creating a different experience each time.

Dates: Through March 17, 2024 Location: Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami

THOMAS BAR-

MIAMI ART WEEK OFFERS A NEARLY ENDLESS ROSTER OF EXHIBITIONS AND FAIRS. DON’T KNOW WHERE TO START? HERE’S OUR GUIDE TO SOME OF THE WEEK’S MOST EYE-POPPING ATTRACTIONS AND ACTIVATIONS.

BY KRISTEN DESMOND LEFEVRE

COURTESY OF THE ART OF HIP-HOP

Faces 1 Identity Politics, No. 10, Edward Said (2018), Charles Gaines

“THE ART OF HIP-HOP” Celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of hiphop and explore its cultural significance through some of its most influential visual creators.

Brought to you by the founders of the popular Museum of Graffiti, the exhibit will touch on the genre’s four pillars: MCing, breakdancing, graffiti, and DJing. (artofhiphop.com) What to see: Spot your favorite album art by such designers as Cey Adams and Kaws, see works by graffiti legends Ras Terms and Dr. Daks, and travel through Miami’s own hip-hop history through the lens of local photographer Derick G. Dates: December 5-10 Location: 299 N.W. 25th Street, Wynwood

“TO WEAVE THE SKY: TEXTILE ABSTRACTIONS FROM THE JORGE M. PÉREZ COLLECTION” Inspired by weaving’s traditional ties to abstraction and geometry, this exhibit at art collector Jorge M. Pérez’s private art space in Allapattah expores diverse approaches to textiles. (elespacio23.org) What to see: The “chromatic structures” installment of the exhibit celebrates color-blocking, including the works of renowned artists Kenneth Noland, Gene Davis, and Frank Stella, plus emerging Miami-based artist Frances Trombly.

Dates: Through August 2024 Location: El Espacio 23

JORGE M. PÉREZ COLLECTION

EXHIBITIONS

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JOSHUA WHITE

GUIDE

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10/25/23 12:29 PM

Spectrum Miami

REDWOOD ART GROUP

Red Dot Miami

COURTESY OF ART BASEL

SPECTRUM MIAMI AND RED DOT MIAMI The only two Art Week fairs held under one roof, Spectrum Miami and Red Dot Miami return for their respective thirteenth and eighteenth years, making them two of the longest-running independent art fairs in the country. While Spectrum showcases the works of more than 200 galleries and independent career artists, studios, and younger galleries known to push boundaries, Red Dot is a gallery-only affair featuring more than 65 galleries representing more than 500 leading contemporary global artists. (redwoodartgroup.com) What to see: At Spectrum, take a stroll through the Solo section, which offers independent artists the opportunity to showcase their work on an international stage and be discovered—not only by gallery owners and art publishers, but also by collectors and enthusiasts. For collectors on a budget, check out the Discoveries Collection, featuring curated artwork priced at $3,000 or less. At Red Dot, visit Art Labs to view projects by leading galleries, art institutions, and art collectives.

Dates: December 6-10 Location: Mana Wynwood

Tracing shadows amongst the crows (2022), Alberta Whittle

NADA AT ICE PALACE STUDIOS The New Art Dealers Alliance (NADA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the cultivation, support, and advancement of new voices in contemporary art. Back for its twenty-first year in Miami, NADA will showcase 139 galleries, art spaces, and nonprofit organizations, including 34 first-time exhibitors. (newart dealers.org) What to see: Highlights from this year’s fair will include solo presentations from Alma, Ceysson & Bénétière, and the Sunday Painter.

Be sure to check out first-time participants like Hannah Traore Gallery and Madragoa, and unique nonprofit exhibitors like White Columns, Tierra del Sol Gallery, and Creative Growth Art Center.

Dates: December 5-9 Location: Ice Palace Studios

ART BASEL Hands down the highest profile art fair in the United States, Art Basel Miami Beach will feature 277 exhibitors from across the world, showcasing significant works by masters of modern and contemporary art, as well as the new generation of emerging stars. This year’s fair spotlights art from Latin America and the Caribbean. (artbasel.com/miami-beach) What to see: In the fair’s main section, don’t miss the works on display at the four mega-galleries returning to this year’s show: David Zwirner, Gagosian, Hauser & Wirth, and Pace Gallery.

Best-bet newcomers include Paris’ Galerie Minsky, New York’s Ortuzar Projects, and San Francisco’s Weinstein Gallery. Other sections worth the walk include Nova, devoted to galleries showing three or fewer artists; Positions, showcasing solo presentations; and Survey, which features historical presentations.

Dates: December 6-7, VIP preview days; December 8-10, open to the public Location: Miami Beach Convention Center

COURTESY OF NADA

REDWOOD ART GROUP

COURTESY OF ART BASEL

FAIRS

DECEMBER 2023

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STYLE

CURATED FINDS, LUXE ACCESSORIES, AND RUNWAY REPORTS

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GAME ON 7

IF YOU’RE AT A LOSS FOR WHAT TO GIVE THE PERSON WHO HAS IT ALL, CONSIDER THESE ULTRALUXE DESIGNER GAMES AND SPORTING GOODS THAT ARE SURE TO ELEVATE PLAYTIME

BY KATHERINE LANDE

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1. Malle golf trunk (price upon request), Louis Vuitton, us.louisvuitton.com | 2. Atout d’Hermès games table ($99,200), Hermès, hermes.com | 3. Saint Laurent Rive Droite surfboard ($9,200), Saint Laurent, ysl. com | 4. Roller skates ($5,125), Chanel, chanel. com | 5. Decorative poker set with crocodile case ($37,000), Gucci, gucci.com | 6. Parkwood backgammon gift set ($2,995), Ralph Lauren, ralphlauren. com | 7. Chess set (price upon request), Versace, versace.com

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STYLE THE LOOK

VALENTINO COUTURE FALL 2023 Valentino juxtaposes luxe fabrics and couture craftsmanship with the ease of slouched silhouettes.

TINSEL TOWN LEAN INTO BEING EXTRA THIS HOLIDAY SEASON— EXTRA SPARKLE, EXTRA VOLUME, EXTRA FABULOUS

BY KATHERINE LANDE LIKE A CHARM Silver crystal Nano Fendigraphy charm ($1,980), Fendi, multiple locations, fendi.com

PLUS ONE RV Bouquet strass buckle mini clutch bag ($1,495), Roger Vivier, Bal Harbour, rogervivier. com

X STYLE NOTES PRETTY PLATINUM: Wear silver head-to-toe for the ultimate party attire.

GRAND DAME: Don’t be shy—the bigger, the bolder, the better.

BALANCING ACT: Keep your hair and makeup natural to allow your look to shine.

CROSS MY HEART Easy diamond earrings set in 18-karat white gold (price upon request), Dolce & Gabbana, Miami, Bal Harbour, dolce gabbana.com

SILVER BELLS Jeweled hobo bag ($4,490), Alexander McQueen, Miami, Bal Harbour, alexander mcqueen.com

PUMP IT UP Toy pumps in strass, suede, and leather ($1,850), Loewe, Miami, loewe.com FANCY FLURRY Rhinestone snowflake earrings ($1,790), Saint Laurent, multiple locations, ysl.com

ROCK AND ROLL Valentino Garavani Rockstud pumps ($1,590), Valentino, Miami, Bal Harbour, valentino.com 32

SWINGING SIXTIES Jackie 1961 GG crystal mini bag ($6,200), Gucci, multiple locations, gucci.com

GLITZ AND GLAM Deep Time High Jewelry Myriad bracelet with diamonds set in 18-karat white gold (price upon request), Louis Vuitton, Aventura, Miami, us.louisvuitton.com

FLAT OUT Sweet Jane Strass flats in crystal ($2,795), Christian Louboutin, Miami, christianlouboutin.com

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10/25/23 11:00 AM

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10/25/23 4:01 PM

STYLE SEASONAL SALUD Coquito gift set ($50), Candela, drinkcandela.com Forget eggnog and go full Floridian with this set from Miami-based Candela that includes everything to make Coquito, Puerto Rico’s favorite holiday drink. This sweet treat sings with vanilla, cinnamon, and coconut thanks to the Coquito Cream Liqueur. Mix it with Candela’s Mamajuana spiced rum, serve it in the included shot glasses, and say “¡Salud!” to the season.

—Kristen Desmond LeFevre, editor in chief

ART WITH HEART Saggar ceramic art ($65$100), Barbara Powell, powellceramicart.com Ceramics are my go-to keepsakes to bring home (very delicately) when I travel and my favorite art form to support locally.

Based in Palm Beach County, Barbara Powell is one of my most-collected local artists. Her pieces reflect a reverence for the planet, inspired by the mountains and landscapes she’s hiked, as well as how geology transforms into infinite textures, colors, and shapes. —Abigail Duffy, web editor ON A ROLL Cupcake Sushi (starting at $25 for eight pieces), Cupcake Sushi, cupcakesushi.com Key West–made Cupcake Sushi is what its name suggests: a cupcake that looks like a sushi roll, but made with ganache, buttercream, sugar beads, and cake in flavors like pistachio, caramel pecan, and key lime. It’s a serious obsession that I’ve been gifting (often to myself) for years. —Daphne Nikolopoulos, editorial director

THE EDIT

Florida’s Finest SHARE A SLICE OF THE SUNSHINE STATE WITH THOSE ON YOUR NICE LIST TOYING WITH NATURE Plush manatee ($16), Florida National Parks Association, floridanational parksassociation.org The ocean’s largest herbivores, manatees can grow to more than 13 feet long, but children and ocean lovers can enjoy this cuddly version that measures a mere 14 inches.

—Jane E. Enos, contributing editor CATCH A CRAB Joe’s Ultimate (starting at $445), Joe’s Stone Crab, goldbelly.com Go big or go home for the holidays with this feast of favorites from Miami Beach–based Joe’s Stone Crab, delivered directly to the doorstep

by Goldbelly— claws, coleslaw, creamed spinach, key lime pie, mustard sauce, and more. —Allison Wolfe Reckson, contributing editor 34

HOT OFF THE PRESS Wild Florida: An Animal Odyssey (University of Florida Press, $42), Kirsten Hines, kirstenhines.com Wildlife photographer and writer Kirsten Hines explores Florida’s impressive array of animals in her latest book, which is at once a celebration of the natural world and a call to cherish and save it.

—Gaylene Salomons, contributing editor

COAST TO COAST Pattern Play coasters ($28 for set of four), Katie Herman Art, katiehermanart.com I often gravitate toward small gifts with a visual punch. That’s why I love these cheeky coasters from Florida artist Katie Herman, featuring a pattern-heavy design that captures the state’s tropical essence.

—Mary Murray, executive editor

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10/25/23 1:12 PM

Trust your face to a facial expert!

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DR. RUSLAN ZHURAVSKY (786) 347-6211 | 2925 Aventura Blvd., Suite 303 | Aventura, FL 33180

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STYLE

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JEWELRY BOX

LET IT SNOW STEP OUT AND STUN IN FESTIVE SNOWFLAKE JEWELRY

BY MARY MURRAY

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1. SENTIMENTAL FEELING Vintage mid-century snowflake brooch with diamonds set in 18-karat gold, price upon request. (yafasignedjewels.com) 2. WISH COME TRUE Jewelmer Noel snowflake pendant with a natural gold keshi pearl set in 18-karat gold, $1,800 (chain sold separately). (us.jewelmer.com) 3. WATCHING IT FALL Yvel earrings with natural diamonds and natural cognac diamonds set in 18-karat gold, price upon request. (yvel.com) 4. JOLLY HAPPY SOUL Assael earrings with amethyst, lavender spinel, and multi-pastel baby akoya cultured pearls set in platinum, $24,000. Neiman Marcus, Bal Harbour, Coral Gables (neimanmarcus.com) 5. SLEIGH BELLS JINGLING Nadine Aysoy Petite Tsarina white double choker with diamonds set in 18-karat white gold, $12,760. (nadineaysoy.com) 6. TREE TOPS GLISTEN Graff snowflake ring with diamonds and emeralds set in 18-karat white gold, price upon request. Graff, Bal Harbour (graff.com) 7. BLUE CHRISTMAS Lugano Diamonds snowflake earrings with diamonds set in blue ceramic, price upon request. (luganodiamonds.com) 8. JUST AS GOOD Tiffany & Co. Elsa Peretti small Bone cuff with snowflake obsidian set in sterling silver, $3,800. Select Tiffany & Co. locations (tiffany.com) 9. ONCE BITTEN, TWICE SHY Provident Jewelry Sunburst earrings with diamonds set in 18-karat gold, $8,500. Provident Jewelry locations (provident jewelry.com) 10. FULL OF CHEER Van Cleef & Arpels snowflake ring with diamonds set in 18-karat gold, price upon request. Van Cleef & Arpels, Miami, Bal Harbour (vancleefarpels.com)

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10/25/23 12:33 PM

BY DR. BERTHA BAUM

WHERE ART MEETS SCIENCE NOW ACCEPTING CONSULTATIONS

Dr. Bertha Baum is a Board Certified Dermatologist and is joined

by Dermatology Trained Physician Assistants who specialize in providing Clinical, Surgical & Cosmetic Dermatologic Services.

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Visit our office

18801 NE 29 Ave. Aventura, FL 33180

OPEN MON. - FRI. (8AM-5PM)

7/31/23 11:22 AM

STYLE BEAUTY

LIGHT BRIGHT

ASHLEY MEYER

Set the holiday mood and keep the festivities glowing with these evocative scented candles (that also make exquisite hostess gifts), clockwise from left: Nanor Collection Match Made in Heaven gift set in Effervescent, featuring a scented candle and match sticks ($70, nanorcollection.ca); Carrière Frères 1884 Spearmint scented taper candles, bringing a spiced aroma to a holiday mantle ($44 for set of six, carriere freres.com); Maison Francis Kurkdjian Es Cap scented candle, evoking memories of Formentera with dry wood accord, fig leaf, and cedarwood ($95, franciskurkdjian. com); Guerlain Muguet de Printemps scented candle, blooming with notes of lily of the valley, rose, and jasmine ($115, guerlain.com); Krigler Opus Verde Good Fir 11 scented candle, a heady blend of balsam, cardamom, fir, leather, and more ($175, krigler.com); and Jennifer Meyer scented candle, with cranberry, strawberry, coconut water, and water lily ($75, jennifermeyer.com). —Abigail Duffy

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10/11/23 1:53 PM

Cindy Orlinsky Your Aventura Specialist

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The name “house&hive” represents the disruptive nature of the industry, driven by a commitment to delivering exceptional results and client service at the highest level. With her extensive background and expertise, Cindy is well-equipped to guide clients through the complexities of this changing market.

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This pristine two-story home is located in the exclusive 24-hour guard-gated community of Country Club Estates & adorns a brand-new roof, new pool, custom modern landscaping, hurricane shutters throughout & so much more! Web# RX-A11469080

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1021 KANE CONCOURSE, BAY HARBOR ISLANDS, FL 33154. 305.866.4566. © 2023 DOUGLAS ELLIMAN REAL ESTATE. ALL MATERIAL PRESENTED HEREIN IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATION PURPOSES ONLY. WHILE, THIS INFORMATION IS BELIEVED TO BE CORRECT, IT IS REPRESENTED SUBJECT TO ERRORS, OMISSIONS, CHANGES OR WITHDRAWAL WITHOUT *PER CINDY ORLINSKY INTERNAL RECORDS. NOTICE. ALL PROPERTY INFORMATION, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO SQUARE FOOTAGE, ROOM COUNT, NUMBER OF BEDROOMS AND THE SCHOOL DISTRICT IN PROPERTY LISTINGS SHOULD BE VERIFIED BY YOUR OWN ATTORNEY, ARCHITECT OR ZONING EXPERT. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY. **PER MIAMI MATRIX MLS FOR HOMES SOLD IN COUNTRY CLUB ESTATES FROM 1/1/2023 - 10/3/2023.

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JOURNEYS

TOM PFEIFFER

YOUR PASSPORT TO THE MOST FASCINATING CORNERS OF THE GLOBE

WANDERLUST

GO WITH THE FLOW

From above: the red-hot glow of the boiling lava lake at Erta Ale; living on the edge at Erta Ale.

FEEL THE HEAT OF EARTH’S MOST EXTRAORDINARY NATURAL INFERNOS, PAST AND PRESENT

BY PAUL RUBIO

ERTA ALE, ETHIOPIA In the Danakil Desert, the hottest landmass on Earth, daytime temperatures easily rise to 125 degrees Fahrenheit. The ethereal landscape—characterized by acid ponds, fumaroles, and geysers, blanketed in mounds of sulfur and salt—reflects DECEMBER 2023

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JOURNEYS

Clockwise from above: Camping out and visiting Erta Ale with Volcano Adventures; the natural fireworks at Yasur in Vanuatu; eruption at Ambrym in Vanuatu.

TOM PFEIFFER

camping for three days and two nights.

Though volcanoes err on the side of unpredictability, Erta Ale is an exception, almost guaranteeing a red-hot lava glow.

Adventurers can go as far as they can stand the heat, getting as close as a half-dozen feet from the caldera’s edge, with lava bubbling up and breaking through the crust just a few feet below. Most of the action takes place in the early mornings and late nights, when the temperature is most bearable and the volcanic glow is most photogenic.

This hard-core group experience (maximum size of eight) is tailored to those serious about volcanoes, photography, and straying far off the beaten path, not to mention willing to leave creature comforts behind in the name of natural phenomena.

Only the super-adventurous need apply. (volcanoadventures.com)

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these harshest of harsh climatic conditions. At the center lies the mammoth boiling lava lake of the broad, domed Erta Ale volcano, one of the world’s few continuously erupting lava lakes, and the one that can be accessed the closest on foot.

Under the guidance of professional volcanologist Tom Pfeiffer, PhD, and his scientific team, outfitter Volcano Adventures runs multiple eight-day Erta Ale Volcano Special tours per year during the “cooler” months of November to mid-March. Participants on this intense expedition traverse a vast no-man’s-land bordering Ethiopia and Eritrea, witnessing unimaginable geothermal formations. Then, they ascend the caldera of Erta Ale, working on prizeworthy shots of the lava’s glow while

AMBRYM AND YASUR, VANUATU According to most volcanologists, the island nation of Vanuatu is a holy grail of volcano expeditions. However, the destination is not for the faint of heart as long hikes, treacherous terrain, and (at times) gas masks are par for the course.

On the island of Tanna, Yasur wows as one of Earth’s few volcanoes in constant strombolian-type eruption, ejecting red-hot lava bombs tens or hundreds of meters into the air from several vents, almost rhythmically.

On Ambrym, a basaltic volcanic island, the center is marked by an immense 7.5-milewide caldera, which rises from the sea as a rainforest-fringed, lunar landscape. It’s home

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10/25/23 11:03 AM

INSIDE THE VOLCANO INSIDE THE VOLCANO

3-H Travel offers a one-of-a-kind, adrenalineinducing opportunity to go inside Thrihnukagigur in Iceland.

The volcano’s empty magma chamber is so tall, it could accommodate a full-size Statue of Liberty.

light. But Thrihnukagigur is anything but your typical dormant volcano. When erupting more than 4,000 years ago, Thrihnukagigur’s magma neither filled its internal chamber nor did its cooled lava seal its three surface craters. No geologist can completely explain exactly how this empty-chamber phenomenon occurred. The main hypotheses are that the magma atypically solidified in the volcanic walls or retreated or drained deeper into the earth. In any case, the result is a one-of-a-kind, massive, cave-like chasm beneath Iceland’s terrain, which now (thanks to the work of Árni B Stefánsson, PhD, and ingenious Icelandic engineers) surfaces as the world’s only accessible volcanic magma chamber.

Your access pass into the heart of Thrihnukagigur volcano is a day trip from Reykjavík with 3-H Travel, the sole operator offering the Inside the Volcano tour. From a starting point at Blue Mountains Country Park, it’s a moderate, 45-minute hike across lava fields to reach the crater. Once atop the volcano, you’ll don your helmet and harness and enter a metal platform cage (imagine a window-cleaning platform for skyscrapers), descending for six

RAGNAR TH. SIGURDSSON / ARCTIC IMAGES

to an arcane world of sand planes, palm oases, cinder cones, erosion gullies, and two highly active craters, Marum and Benbow, which contained lava lakes until 2018. Conditions permitting, the chance to abseil (or rappel) into Benbow crater is a highlight of any global volcanic immersion.

Pfeiffer and Volcano Adventures conduct annual group trips to Vanuatu, the number of which depends on volcanic activity levels. For 2024, a single journey is planned, Volcanoes and Cultures: Adventures in the South Sea, a 15-day excursion (July 2-14) across the Ambrym caldera and through the natural fireworks of Yasur, with a cultural bonus of time with the Nivane people of Ambrym. Expect daily pilgrimages through the slippery jungle as well as steep ascents and descents, occasionally trekking over exposed ash ridges, engulfed in clouds and rain. Other times, an abundance of volcanic gas requires the use of a proper gas mask (don’t worry, Vol-

cano Adventures has you covered—literally).

Even Pfeiffer, who’s seen countless eruptions across the planet, still gains inspiration from his first trip to Ambrym. “I abseiled to the first terrace of Benbow, where I watched an active vent in awe,” he recalls. “It was spattering wildly, like the mouth of a breathing monster.” (volcanoadventures.com) THRIHNUKAGIGUR, ICELAND On an island of extreme volcanic and geologic activity, it seems ironic that an inactive volcano could steal the plate-tectonic lime-

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minutes to reach the chamber’s nadir. Once inside, roam for 30 minutes through the cavernous, multihued interiors with your tour guide and fellow group members (typical size is 18 to 20 people, though private tours can be arranged). During your trek inside the volcano, posit your own theory about how this singular site formed or simply revel in the inspiring beauty of one of Mother Nature’s greatest enigmas. (insidethevolcano.com) MOUNT BROMO, INDONESIA The island of Java houses 45 of the archipelago’s 130 active volcanoes, none more picturesque than Mount Bromo, which rises 7,641 feet toward the heavens, surrounded by three wide hills, together framed by a vast, empty caldera. Tucked inside East Java’s Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, Mount Bromo periodically erupts every one to six years, but the incredible volcanic experience is more predictable.

JAY TINDALL

JOURNEYS

Mount Bromo in Java is the highlight of Indonesia’s volcanic landscapes.

Rise and shine at 4 a.m. for a predawn horseback ride to the summit in time for the sun’s ascent. Listen for the eerie sounds of rumbling and degassing, often followed by spewing ash surging from the crater. Wear layers—it’s remarkably cold here in the early morning hours—and carry a tripod. The ultimate shots unfold as the sun swallows the clouds above the volcano and neighboring Mount Semeru appears in the distance, emit-

ting chains of steam into the sky. Following the Mount Bromo high, look forward to visiting another of Java’s most renowned volcanoes, Kawah Ijen, which is crowned by a blazing blue acid lake.

Thanks to solid infrastructure in Java, Mount Bromo can be reached via a full-day tour, bookable through most island hotels. However, to truly immerse in the magic of the country’s volcanic landscapes— in style—we recommend a greater Indonesian sojourn with a luxury outfitter. A top choice: Remote Lands’ 30-day Epic Indonesian Adventure, which not only exposes travelers to the nation’s volcanic riches but also its orangutanfilled forests, Komodo dragon–strewn beaches, and more. (remotelands.com) «

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JOURNEYS

Clockwise from top left: The pool at The Willcox is magical in the evenings; horse racing is a local equestrian pursuit; The Willcox lobby and front porch have been welcoming visitors since 1898.

QUICK TRIPS

JEWEL of the South

AIKEN AND ITS TOP HOTEL, THE WILLCOX, EPITOMIZE SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY

©SHELLY MARSHALL SCHMIDT

BY DAPHNE NIKOLOPOULOS

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In the late nineteenth century, around the same time that Henry Morrison Flagler brought his railroad south to Palm Beach, America’s high-society snowbirds flocked to Aiken, South Carolina. They came seeking sunshine and sport, and they got both in spades in this “winter colony” that’s small on the map but big on Southern charm.

Aristocrats, royals, and captains of industry came mainly to play polo on the wellgroomed fields, most notably Whitney Field at the Aiken Polo Club. To this day, the circa-1882 Whitney hosts tournaments during

the spring and fall seasons, which conveniently fall in between high-goal play elsewhere.

When not on the polo fields, well-heeled visitors could be found on the golf course or on a fox hunt, in full riding regalia. The latter took place after dark in the mysterious expanses of the Hitchcock Woods, because nothing is more sporting than a sense of adventure.

After a day of mallet swinging and scent following, they would gather at The Willcox. Built in 1898 as a retreat for the world’s wealthiest and most powerful, “Aiken’s living room” was famous for its ballroom dances, white-glove service, and refined accommodations. Guests such as Harold Vanderbilt, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, and Winston Churchill would “repair” to the hotel for dinner with full silver and crystal settings, as well as handcrafted cocktails like the Parisian or a killer Sazerac.

Though the hotel has developed a vintage patina 125 years on, its reputation hasn’t tar-

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nished a bit. It’s still the place to stay in Aiken, and it continues to strive for gracious hospitality. Guest rooms and suites are traditionally furnished with four-poster beds, antiques, and classic fabrics like plaids and florals. Suites are individually decorated and full of character, depicting motifs that resonate with the leisurely pursuits of the region.

Fireplaces and deep bathtubs invite a night in, and private terraces are perfect perches for breakfast on crisp fall mornings.

The Restaurant at The Willcox is Aiken’s de facto special-occasion establishment, with some Southern favorites but mainly Continental classics. Of note are The Restaurant’s romantic packages, top of which is the Ultimate Aiken Experience for two: a three-course, alfresco dinner served on Aiken Polo Club’s pavilion terrace with a view of historic Whitney Field. The non-polo-minded have options as well: a picnic in Hitchcock Woods, a wine and chocolate pairing or fireside s’mores at the hotel, or dinner in the spa suite following a 60-minute couples massage.

The town itself is steeped in history and Southern culture from art to music.

Shoppers will love A Fox’s Tale, a shop showcasing local artists and craftsmen in downtown Aiken. Here you’ll find Betsy Olmsted tea towels with handpainted horses and critters, vintage editions of classic books (think: a first edition

©SHELLY MARSHALL SCHMIDT

Clockwise from left: Four-poster beds lend a vintage flair; the Parisian cocktail; alfresco group dining; The Restaurant serves Continental dishes in an elegant setting; claw-foot tubs invite relaxation.

of Disney’s Bambi, circa 1941, for just $45), and scads of primitive objects with a Carolina flair. Also worth visiting are the multimerchant Aiken Antique Mall and colorful Aiken County Farmers Market with seasonal produce and artisanal foods year-round.

Whether you come for the polo or the Southern vibes, prepare to be charmed. (thewillcox.com, visitaikensc.com) « DECEMBER 2023

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COURTESY OF LITTLE PALM ISLAND

JOURNEYS

FLORIDIANA

ISLAND Time

THREE REASONS TO ESCAPE TO LITTLE PALM ISLAND NOW

Since 1988, the single biggest reason to visit Little Palm Island has been the castaway glow that comes from being on a secluded, private island. The 4-acre retreat reachable by boat from Little Torch Key has perfected “do nothing time” with Gumby Smash cocktails, toes-in-the-sand dining, and thatch-roofed bungalows with romantic private beaches.

Looking for an excuse to visit—or return?

Here are three. (littlepalmisland.com)

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BY DAPHNE NIKOLOPOULOS

SNORKELING LOOE KEY Most Floridians don’t realize the world’s third-largest coral reef is in our backyard. Part of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, Looe Key, off Big Pine Key, is a treasure trove of marine life and offers some of the best snorkeling on the planet. Through its Paradise with a Purpose package, Little Palm Island will whisk you to the Looe Key reef for a day of snorkeling, during which you’ll encounter a head-spinning array of fish—the usual tropical suspects, plus bigger fish like grouper and sharks—in spectacular terrain and Windex-blue water. A naturalist swims out with guests to help spot and identify wildlife and interpret the experience.

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BRUNCH IS BACK After a few years’ absence, which was noted among Little Palm Island devotees, the decadent foodfest that is brunch has returned. The all-you-can-eat experience is an occasion to be anticipated (read: come hungry) and savored. It works like this: come 11 a.m. on Sunday, you’ll put on your island finest and settle into a seaside table or terrace banquette for the next two or three hours. Then you’ll sip Champagne or a Bloody Mary—glasses are bottomless—and nibble on monkey bread while you wait for your small plates (which are actually not that small) to arrive. Some choices from a recent visit: Florida lobster hash, shakshuka, heirloom tomato gazpacho, Key West pinks with cheddar grits, aji panca–rubbed tri-tip, bison empanadas, and the definitive key lime pie. In food nirvana, you’ll find the closest hammock and nap for the rest of the afternoon.

IMMERSION IN NATURE Is there anything more precious than a key deer? The diminutive ungulates, which are native to the Lower Keys and very much endangered, swim to Little Palm Island from nearby mangrove islands to forage. They’re so innocent they’ll come right up to you for a close encounter of the most adorable kind— just don’t touch or feed them. Furthermore, the Little Palm water is so clear that you can observe the prolific marine life from a kayak, stand-up paddleboard, or Boston Whaler (all available on-island). At night, hang out by the docks and watch the tarpon and snook feeding frenzy; by day, be on the lookout for sharks, turtles, and, if you’re lucky, a manatee lolling in the sea grasses.

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JOURNEYS

HIGH ROAD

SWEET SMELL OF SUCCESS THE MERCEDES-MAYBACH GLS 600 SUV DEFINES EFFORTLESS LUXURY

BY HOWARD WALKER

M

y olfactory neurons are sensing the floral bouquet of white osmanthus blossoms, rounded out by a gentle leather note, with just a hint of spicy tea. It’s nothing less than nirvana for the nostrils.

While the typical domestic daily driver exudes the heady aroma of pungent gym bags, half-eaten Happy Meals, and pumpkin spice lattes, not so the temple of luxe that is the Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 4Matic SUV. The perfumiers at Mercedes’ Maybach created the sensuous scent exclusively for this Gulfstream jet for the road. Get your chauffeur to engage the Air-Balance function, and the fragrance is spritzed discreetly around the cabin. What does it smell like? Money, of course.

When it was introduced back in 2020, this GLS 600 was Mercedes-Maybach’s first SUV and big brother to the flagship Maybach S-Class sedan. As the badge suggests, this milk and honey 4x4 is based on Merc’s full-bodied GLS, but it comes with a plethora of bells and whistles to justify its $170,000-and-up price tag.

Like its sedan counterpart, the GLS 600 is all about that cavernous rear compartment. Whereas the regular GLS has three rows and can seat up to eight, the Maybach accommodates just four. Climb into the back— a task made easier by extra-wide, electronically extending running boards—and ease into one of two Barcalounger-style thrones. At the tap of a button, they’ll recline 43 degrees and the footrests will elevate, all while some mechanized masseuse pummels your lower sacrum.

Then there’s the pièce de résistance: a Champagne fridge mounted between the seats, complete with a pair of Robbe & Berking silver flutes.

As you might expect, the leatherwork is breathtaking. Hermès

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POWER FILE PRICE: FROM $170,000 ENGINE: 4.0-LITER TWIN-TURBO V8 WITH HYBRID ASSIST POWER: 550 HP TORQUE: 538 LB-FT 0-60: 4.8 SECONDS TOP SPEED: 155 MPH LENGTH/WIDTH: 205/85 INCHES WEIGHT: 6,000 POUNDS (EST.) WHY WE LOVE IT: BECAUSE THERE ARE FEW MORE LUXURIOUS WAYS OF TRAVELING WITHOUT TAKING A PRIVATE JET.

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Birkin–soft hide—hand-stitched, diamond-quilted, perforated, and pleated—covers the cabin. Want tunes? The insane Burmester 3D surround sound system pumps out 1,590 watts through a barrage of 27 speakers.

The Stones on tour use less.

After spending a joyous week with the 2024 GLS 600, it is my duty to report on how this luxurious limousine drives, so that you may pass on the information to your chauffeur. Suffice it to say, it has the power, performance, refinement, and silky ride you’d expect of a Maybach.

Power comes from Mercedes’ Teflon-smooth 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 with hybrid-assist that results in a potent 550 horsepower. Escaping those

pesky paparazzi, it can whoosh you from standstill to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds. It’s coupled to a 9-speed automatic that shifts gears with the fluidity of hot molasses flowing from a jar.

Naturally, height-adjusting Airmatic air suspension is standard. But what I love is the active body control setup that complements it. This includes a so-called Curve mode that actively leans the Maybach into a bend, kind of like a motorcycle, and cameras that scan the road ahead and prep the suspension to instantly react to lumps and bumps. The result is a true magic carpet–like ride that gives the spooky feeling of floating on air.

As for the looks, I’d put the Maybach’s exterior design in the “acquired taste” category. If you like beaucoup bling with your luxury SUV, you won’t be disappointed. Up front, there’s more shiny chrome than a ’70s Cadillac Eldorado, along with towering 23-inch forged alloys and available two-tone paint. I’m sure the aim here is to disguise the fact that beneath the glitz and glam is a more mundane Mercedes GLS, which does sort of detract from the appeal.

Fact is, for roughly the same money—our loaded Maybach GLS 600 topped out at just over $200,000—you could get into a Bentley Bentayga V8 or a long-wheelbase Range Rover Autobiography. Arguably the 600’s biggest rival will be Mercedes’ just-launched and similarly priced allelectric Maybach EQS SUV. But for Mercedes lovers looking for some serious luxury, this new GLS 600 is heaven scent. «

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JOURNEYS

HIGH SEAS

HOME AWAY FROM HOME THE NEW PRESTIGE M8 POWER CATAMARAN PROVES THAT TWO HULLS ARE BETTER THAN ONE

BY HOWARD WALKER

W

ho doesn’t dream of a beach house by the sea? Waves gently lapping by the back door, friends and family soaking up rays on comfy loungers, a wellstocked fridge full of frosty libations. The only negative, hurricanes aside, is that a beach house stays firmly rooted in one spot. If the view gets old, the neighbors get too rambunctious, the commute becomes tiresome, you’re stuck.

So how about a beach house on the sea?

That’s the thinking behind the brand-new flagship M8 power catamaran from French builder Prestige, part of the yachting powerhouse that is Groupe Beneteau.

As you might expect from something measuring 65 feet long and 29 feet wide, it has the interior space of a well-sized beach cottage. In fact, it boasts more than 3,000 square feet, with up to five en-suite bedrooms including a fullbeam primary suite worthy of a Four Seasons.

“We tried everything possible to make it not feel like a boat,” says Prestige VP Erwin Bamps. “It’s a villa on the sea that can transport

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you to a new location every day.”

I recently met Bamps during a test drive and tour of the new M8 at Fort Lauderdale’s Bahia Mar Marina. The first thing I noticed was its spectacular looks.

Typical power cats can appear like sailing catamarans minus the mast.

This built-in-Italy Prestige M8, from the drawing board of longtime Prestige designer Camillo Garroni, has true visual drama.

But there’s no mistaking its imposing enormity. Stepping aboard is like stepping onto the back deck of some chic seaside mansion. The huge rear cockpit heightens the coastal-living feel, complete with ultra-modern furniture in shades of icy blue from Italian design house Pininfarina. The near-full-width sliding-glass doors open into the cavernous saloon, creat-

ing the ultimate indoor-outdoor living space.

Again, it’s all beachy cool, with light oak floors and lots of mirror-polished stainless steel.

Arguably the design masterpiece is that primary suite that spans the two hulls beneath the forward deck. More like a private apartment, it stretches close to 30 feet across, giving enough space for a lounging area, a big bed that runs east-west, and a large bathroom. The VIP suite is almost similar in size and features a den with a sofa and pop-up TV for movie nights.

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POWER FILE PRICE: FROM $5.4 MILLION LENGTH: 65 FEET BEAM: 29 FEET DRAFT: 5 FEET, 5 INCHES ENGINES: TWIN VOLVO D8 600 MAX POWER: 1,200 HP TOP SPEED: 20 KNOTS WHY WE LOVE IT: BECAUSE IT OFFERS THE KIND OF SPACE AN 85-FOOT MONOHULL CAN ONLY DREAM OF.

It’s time to head out along the Intracoastal and into the Atlantic to see how the M8 performs. The best place to take the controls is up on the vast flybridge, with its near-unobstructed 360-degree views, wind-protecting wraparound screen, and sports car–like two-seat helm with twin 22-inch Garmin screens.

Powering this ocean-going leviathan is a pair of 600-horsepower Volvo D8 turbodiesels, one in each hull, both hushed by sound-deadening materials. The thinking here is comfort, not so much

speed, though max velocity is a zippy 20 knots, with 15 knots being the cruising sweet spot.

Exiting the Port Everglades cruise ship channel into the Atlantic, I push forward on the throttles and feel a mighty surge. These are not planing hulls, nor are the Volvos particularly powerful given the size of the yacht. But those slender, vertical bows cut through the waves like a hot knife through butter, with the wide beam providing exceptional stability.

At 17 knots, the engines are barely audible

and burning less than 45 gallons an hour, impressive for a 54-ton boat. Throttle back to a sedate, Bahamas-hopping 8 knots and the burn rate drops to less than 10 gallons an hour. With twin 490-gallon fuel tanks, the M8 will run for more than 350 nautical miles between fill-ups.

Spin that nicely weighted wheel and the M8 makes tight turns without a hint of heeling.

When it comes time to dock, the twin engines, bow thrusters on each hull, and joystick control make easy work of parking.

Luxury power catamarans are grabbing plenty of attention right now, and this new Prestige M8, priced from $5.4 million or $6.2 million very wellequipped, represents the state of the art. Think of it as a beach house, without the yard work. «

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MICHAEL DOLATOWSKI AND JUAN SALAZAR HOST A HOLIDAY SOIREE IN THEIR MIAMI BEACH CONDO

Jingle

MINGLE &

BY LINDA MARX PHOTOGRAPHY BY JERRY RABINOWITZ

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When Michael Dolatowski met Juan Salazar at Miami Beach’s Barry’s Boot Camp in 2017, Dolatowski says it was “flirtation at first sight.” A few weeks of Instagram DMing led to their first date at East Miami hotel’s rooftop Sugar lounge, followed by dancing at Twist. But it was a latenight walk on the beach that made the pair ready for more.

“Our conversation on the beach cemented my interest in Juan,” says Dolatowski. “I liked his ambition, energy, thoughts on career and life, and love of travel.”

Salazar, a music and entertainment marketing professional, agrees that the romantic beach walk was what made him fall for the designer. “Mike is adventurous, and I have fear,” says Salazar, founder of 9F Creative, which boasts a roster of clients like Sony Music Latin and Amazon Music. “He has no fear. I liked that Mike has become my wild side.”

A year later, after spending most of their free time together, the men were

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Clockwise from left: Florals by Calma drip with berries and amaranthus for a tropical-holiday vibe; an assortment of sips and bites welcomed guests; an endive salad topped with lemonvinegar dressing and walnut crumble.

married at the Miami-Dade County Courthouse. Soon after, they began to pursue their love of travel, often bringing objects home to decorate their Belle Isle condominium. In fact, Dolatowski encouraged his husband’s interest in celebrating the design side of Christmas, the magical season that each remembers fondly from childhood.

“I have always been a lover of Christmas and was able to get Juan more into the spirit over the years by developing our own take on the season,” says Dolatowski, who recently opened his eponymous studio where he designs for commercial clients such as Sana Skin Studio and Jolene Sound Room, plus residential clients around the United States.

Dolatowski, who was born and raised in Wisconsin, waxes poetic about the Christmas seasons he spent with his family as a child—the mystical snow showers, frost crunching beneath his feet, blasts of arctic air, and towering Christmas trees. “We always had an 8-foot-tall Christmas tree that my parents put inside our home’s bay window,” he 56

says. “It was beautiful; you could see it from outside. My mom had a large collection of Santa figurines she displayed from her trips around the world.”

Dolatowski says his family background has been “important in his adult life, especially during the holiday season.” He remembers waking up with his siblings on Christmas morning to open presents, and then driving to Indiana to visit extended family, where the group would dine on ravioli and his grandfather’s homemade wine.

Born and raised in Bogotá, Colombia, Salazar spent most Christmases at his grandmother’s house. He remembers the family’s religious figurines and partaking in the Novena de Aguinaldos—a Catholic practice that saw Salazar and his family praying during the nine days leading up to Christmas. “We ate, sang carols, and enjoyed seeing other family members,” says Salazar. “We always opened presents at midnight on December 24.”

While these are pleasant memories for Salazar, he didn’t get into the

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Clockwise from top: A tray of CBD-based, nonalcoholic martinis made with Aplós; Salazar and Orly Romay admire the burnt Basque cheesecake baked in honor of his birthday; Dolatowski and Salazar pose on their Miami Beach balcony.

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This page, clockwise from right: Dolatowski and guests mingle on the balcony; the dining table’s minimalist vibe reflects the look of the couple’s Christmas tree; candles from CB2 twinkle behind a dish of beets in goat cheese soubise topped with pistachios and fresh herbs.

Opposite page: Table appointments from Soho Home—including green Nero plates and Morin linen napkins—lent a contemporary take on a traditional holiday. Dishes of zucchini prepared with miso, crudo with leche de tigre, and wines from BeyBey rounded out the evening’s menu.

design and festive aspects of the holiday until he met Dolatowski, who convinced him that it wouldn’t be Christmas without decor. As the pair merged their lives, they began to merge traditions too, including their Christmas tree, holiday collectibles, personal stockings, and festive foods.

“Since we are a multicultural home and have a nontraditional family, we naturally take influences from many places, including our own backgrounds,” Dolatowski says.

Typically, in their Miami Beach condominium, they like to keep it simple and understated. They are most influenced by a past trip to Norway at Christmastime where the “simplicity was striking and elegant,” Dolatowski says.

“This year, we trimmed the tree with reindeer and other ornaments that we bought in Norway, and a star I designed as a kid.”

For a recent holiday soiree in their home, the couple invited a handful of creative friends who “feel like family” to share the Christmas spirit. Since Salazar’s birthday is the day after Christmas, the celebration was a natural part of the evening’s festivities. “I always get excited before guests arrive because I like to see our friends in different and more relaxed settings,” says Salazar.

Guests kicked off the festive evening with Aplós martinis—a drink made using the CBD-based, nonalcoholic spirit brand founded by their friend and party 58

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guest David Fudge. The drinks accompanied appetizers from Miami Beach’s Bebito’s, including endive salad, lentil hummus, and burrata.

Chef Joe Drazenovich (who grew up eating classic lechon or turkey proteins for Christmas dinner with sweet potato and walnut pies) prepared the evening’s meal. “The holidays now are more about the gathering, the preparing, and feasting, and less about the typical iconic flavors and dishes,” Drazenovich says. “So being Latin and living in Miami, I enjoy the diversity more than the traditions.

Michael and Juan agreed.”

The hosts served Denver steak with horsey sauce; Parisian red snapper with yellow bell pepper, almonds, aji amarillo, and capers; beets in goat cheese soubise topped with pistachios and fresh herbs; zucchini prepared with miso, white wine, spicy granola, and mint; and crispy sweet potatoes on a bed of crème fraîche. To end things on a sweet note and celebrate Salazar’s birthday, there was a special burnt Basque cheesecake and monster-sized chocolate and walnut cookies (both from True Loaf Bakery), as well as the chef’s walnut pie.

“Our families are from all over the world,” says guest Teddy Mayer, creative director and vice president of design for Virgin Hotels. “Here in Miami, Michael and Juan have become our chosen family. We love being invited to their home any time of the year, but it’s super special during Christmas. This was a night to remember.” «

This page, from top: Chocolate and walnut cookies from True Loaf Bakery; chef Drazenovich’s walnut pie dusted with confectioners’ sugar.

Opposite page: Denver steak with horsey sauce served with crispy sweet potatoes over crème fraîche.

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If you’ve ever skied the French Alps, there’s a good chance you’ve warmed up with an après-ski mug of Verte Chaud. The regional hot chocolate, which translates to “hot green,” is spiked with green Chartreuse, the herbal liqueur made nearby by the Carthusian monks. With heady notes of pine and lavender, the liqueur is as invigorating as the Alpine air. A new year calls for a new take on the classic, and this one replaces dark chocolate with white chocolate and bright botanicals for a blissfully blue drink.

SERVES 2 1 1 /2 cups full-fat coconut milk 4 oz. white chocolate, finely chopped 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise (seeds scraped) 2 oz. floral syrup (recipe below) Pinch of salt 1 1 /2 oz. green Chartreuse 1 1 /2 oz. Mezcal Verde Amarás

AVAILABLE IN BOTH GREEN AND YELLOW EXPRESSIONS, CHARTREUSE IS MADE FROM 130 DIFFERENT BOTANICALS. THE YELLOW VERSION IS SOMEWHAT MILDER, WITH MORE HONEY AND SAFFRON NOTES. THE ORIGINAL FORMULA IS SAID TO DATE BACK TO 1605, THOUGH THE FIRST TRADEMARK WAS FILED IN 1840.

GARNISH: roasted marshmallows

»

Warm the milk in a saucepan until steaming. Whisk in the white chocolate and vanilla bean until completely melted. Bring the mixture to a simmer, being careful not to let it boil over. Let simmer, whisking for 3-4 minutes, until slightly thicker. Remove from heat, and add floral syrup and salt. Whisk once more to combine. Divide the Chartreuse and mezcal evenly between 2 mugs, and top with hot chocolate. Garnish with roasted marshmallows.

FLORAL SYRUP (Makes 1 cup) 1 /4 cup dried lavender, food-grade 1 /4 cup dried butterfly pea flowers or powder, food-grade 1 cup sugar (or coconut sugar) 1 cup water

»

Add all the ingredients to a saucepan, and bring to a boil over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and let steep for 15 minutes. Strain into a glass jar, and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

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EVEN THE SLI GHTE ST S HIFT I N TEM P ERATU RE S M AK E S T RA DIN G IN O UR C HI LLED COC K TAI L G LASSE S FO R A CUP O F THE HOT AND SOOTHI NG A DECA DEN T A FFA IR. FI R E U P YOU R BAR C ARTS AN D COZY UP WIT H THE SE FI VE WI NTER WA RMERS.

BY J U LE S AR O N PH OTOG RAPH Y BY GYO RGY PA P P

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A straightforward and balanced sour, the original Sidecar dates to around World War I. This seasonal take on the classic infuses the cognac with chai flavors for an unexpected warm interpretation featuring a golden pear garnish.

SERVES 1 1 1/2 oz. cognac, such as Pierre Ferrand 1840 3/4 oz. orange liqueur, such as Cointreau or Pierre

Ferrand Dry Curaçao 3/4 oz. lemon juice, freshly squeezed

3 oz. chai tea GARNISH: orange twist and a slice of golddusted pear and gold-dusted sugar rim (optional)

»

Coat the rim of a heat-resistant glass with sugar, sprinkled with edible gold flakes, if desired, and set aside. Temper a heat-resistant glass with hot water, then add the cognac, orange liqueur, and lemon juice. Top with chai tea and garnish with an orange twist and pear slices.

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THE TINY KUMQUAT IS A CITRUS FRUIT ORIGINALLY GROWN IN SOUTHEAST ASIA WITH A SWEET-TART FLAVOR CLOSELY RESEMBLING A SOUR TANGERINE. IF YOU FIND YOURSELF IN DADE CITY, FLORIDA, IN JANUARY, DON’T MISS THE TOWN’S ANNUAL KUMQUAT FESTIVAL (WHICH ATTRACTS THOUSANDS OF VISITORS EVERY YEAR) AND THE NEARBY TOWN OF ST. JOSEPH, THE SELF-PROCLAIMED KUMQUAT CAPITAL OF THE WORLD.

Among the most universal of the hot alcoholic drinks, the Hot Toddy originated around 1862 and featured a simple recipe of brandy, white sugar, and hot water—a mixture that has been reimagined time and time again through the decades. Below is an Asian-inspired iteration using an unfiltered sake, with a creamy white finish and a burst of citrus flavor from the yuzu and kumquat.

SERVES 1 2 oz. nigori sake, such as Kikusui Perfect Snow 1 oz. yuzu juice 1 barspoon yuzu marmalade 3 oz. hot chamomile tea GARNISH: black and white sesame sugar and fresh kumquats

»

Coat the rim of a heat-resistant glass with sugar sprinkled with black and white sesame seeds and set aside. Temper a heat-resistant glass with hot water, then add the sake, yuzu juice, and marmalade. Top with tea and stir well. Garnish with fresh kumquats.

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PRO TIP THE PROOF IS IN THE BATTER. TO MAKE SURE YOU DON’T END UP WITH A GREASY GLOB OF BUTTER FLOATING ON TOP OF YOUR HOT DRINK, PREPARE THE BATTER AHEAD OF TIME.

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Hot Buttered Rum has been comforting warm drink aficionados since the Colonial era. This decidedly tiki-inspired variation adds a gingerbread batter and a shot of allspice dram to the classic recipe for a double hit of warming spice. The seasonal persimmon and tropical passion fruit add to the exotic appeal.

This pink-hued mulled warmer has the flavorful depth of the red classic, yet it’s made lighter and tropical with a twist of pineapple, hibiscus, and pink peppercorns.

SERVES 1 1 1/2 oz. aged rum, such as Pa’Lante (8-year) 1/2 oz. allspice dram

1 tbsp. gingerbread batter (recipe below) 1 tbsp. persimmon and passion fruit puree (recipe below)

SERVES 4

GARNISH: cinnamon stick and fresh persimmon slice

1 bottle (750 ml) Lillet Rosé

»

1 cup fresh pineapple juice

Add hot water to a mug to temper it. Once hot, discard the water, and add the room-temperature batter and puree. Add 3 oz. boiling water, and mix it with a milk frother or whisk. Add the rum and allspice dram. Top with more hot water. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and a slice of persimmon.

1/2 cup hibiscus tea

1 lemon, thinly sliced into rounds 1/2 tsp. whole pink peppercorns

3 cinnamon sticks, plus more for serving 6 cloves

GINGERBREAD BATTER

12 cardamom pods, lightly cracked

1/2 lb. butter, softened to room temperature

4 oz. Pierre Ferrand Dry Curaçao (optional)

1/2 lb. raw sugar

1 tbsp. ground ginger 1 tbsp. cinnamon 1 tbsp. nutmeg 1/2 tsp. ground cloves 1/2 quart vanilla ice cream, softened

» Add butter, sugar, and spices to a stand mixer or mixing

bowl, and combine until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Add the ice cream and stir again. Transfer to a container with a lid, seal, and store in the freezer.

»

GARNISH: cinnamon stick, fresh pineapple slices, and fresh dragon fruit slices

In a pot, combine Lillet, pineapple juice, hibiscus tea, lemon, and spices. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour. Ladle into mugs and stir 1/2 oz. dry curaçao into each glass. Garnish with fresh pineapple slices, fresh dragon fruit slices, and a cinnamon stick (optional). «

FRUIT PUREE

» Cut the fruits in half and scoop out the seeds and pulp.

Place the pulp in a blender, along with 1 tsp. water per fruit.

Blend on high for 3 seconds. Pour the blend through a fine mesh strainer, using a wooden spoon to push the pulp through.

NAPLESILLUSTRATED.COM | JANUARY 2023

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Opulent

ORCHIDS

Wintry days sparkle with the COLORS OF THE SEASON

By Mary Murray Digital Illustration

By Leonor Alvarez-Maza Floral ring with rubies set in 18-karat gold and diamonds set in 18-karat white gold, Picchiotti, Tourneau and Bucherer, Bal Harbour, carl-fbucherer.com; Tropics Collection cuff with a golden South Sea pearl and diamonds set in 18-karat gold, Jewelmer, jewelmer.com.

Opposite page: Tassel necklace with emeralds, fresh-water pearls, and diamonds on an 18-karat white gold chain, Provident Jewelry, multiple locations, providentjewelry.com; heart pendant with a natural Colombian heart-shaped emerald and diamonds set in 18-karat white gold on a diamond heart chain set in 18-karat white gold, Patricia Robalino, patriciarobalino.com.

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DECEMBER 2023

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Silhouette earrings with jade and rubies set in 18-karat gold, Seaman Schepps, seamanschepps.com; marquise necklace with emeralds and diamonds set in 18-karat white gold, Lugano Diamonds, luganodiamonds.com; ring with a South Sea cultured pearl and an emerald-cut diamond set in platinum, Assael, Neiman Marcus, Bal Harbour, Coral Gables, neimanmarcus.com.

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Emerald Pyramid Opal Mosaic Vortex necklace with emeralds, opals, and diamonds set in 14-karat gold, Jacquie Aiche, jacquieaiche.com; ring with a natural cognac diamond and pink diamonds set in 18-karat rose gold, Yvel, yvel.com; Snowflakes Leaf Classic pendant with diamonds set in 18-karat rose gold, Tamara Comolli, us.tamaracomolli.com.

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Mandala Collection pendant necklace with a round emerald and diamonds set in 18-karat gold, Harakh, harakh.com; bracelet with emeralds and diamonds set in 18-karat white gold, Graff, Bal Harbour, graff.com; necklace with rubies and diamonds set in 18-karat white gold, Kwiat, kwiat. com; L’Arc de Davidor ring with lacquered ceramic and Palais diamonds set in 18-karat white gold, Davidor, Bal Harbour, davidor.com.

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One-of-a-kind bracelet with rubies and diamonds set in platinum, Hamilton Jewelers, hamiltonjewelers.com; estate Belle Feuilles earrings with Burmese rubies and diamonds set in 18-karat gold, Van Cleef & Arpels, Greenleaf & Crosby, greenleafcrosby. com; vintage Bombe cocktail ring with a ruby and diamonds set in platinum and 18-karat gold, David Webb, Yafa Signed Jewels, yafasignedjewels.com.

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Lady of the MANOR Evening wear goes edgy with textured textiles and rocker-chic details

Photography

by Gabor Jurina Shot by Aventura on location at Vizcaya Museum & Gardens, Miami Gucci evening dress, heels Opposite page: Valentino sequin dress For buying information, turn to page 98.

Fashion editor: Katherine Lande

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Dior dress, bralette, briefs, necklace Opposite page: Silvia Tcherassi sequin minidress; Valentino Garavani pumps.

For buying information, turn to page 98.

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Louis Vuitton beaded mini tank dress, draped jacket, ankle boots, belt Opposite page: Alexander McQueen knit dress, biker boots For buying information, turn to page 98.

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Tory Burch draped tulle dress, kitten heels, earrings, bracelets Opposite page: Chanel sequin top, jacquard skirt, shoes, belts, necklaces, earrings For buying information, turn to page 98.

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Stella McCartney dress, shoes Opposite page: Oscar de la Renta beaded gown; Louis Vuitton heels.

For buying information, turn to page 98.

Model: Zlata Semenko, One Management, New York Hair and makeup: Taryll Atkins, Artist Management Miami, using Koh Gen Do Beauty Fashion assistant: Zlata Kotmina Digital tech: Tony Lai

PALMBEACHILLUSTRATED.COM | DECEMBER 2023

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SIP&SAVOR BOLD FLAVORS, COOL COCKTAILS, AND LOCAL FAVORITES

OPENINGS

At the confluence of business and pleasure in the heart of Brickell, 11-time James Beard–nominated restaurateur and founder of Fox Restaurant Concepts, Sam Fox, has opened an outpost of his all-day, new American dining concept The Henry. The Smith Hanes– designed, 260-seat restaurant on the ground level of Brickell City Centre has quickly gained popularity with both the neighborhood’s epicurean-loving residents and power-lunching transients thanks to a wide-ranging menu of familiar yet elevated items, its elegant setting, and its ventanita (coffee window) offering grab-and-go options.

At breakfast, look forward to divine egg sandwiches, breakfast burritos, and scrumptious avocado toast finished with olive oil, aged cheddar, and sea salt.

For lunch, anticipate salads and sandwiches perfected; we recommend the seared tuna chop with avocado, snap peas, carrot, crispy wontons, cashews, and sesame ginger vinaigrette for the former and the grilled chicken club with rosemary ham, smoked bacon, aged Swiss, lettuce, tomato, and mayo for the latter. At dinnertime, come hungry for chilled seafood platters, salt-and-pepper-crusted Prime cuts off the grill, and more decadent entrees like lobster and black truffle tagliatelle with truffle butter, Italian herbs, and toasted breadcrumbs. (thehenry restaurant.com) –Paul Rubio

COURTESY OF THE HENRY

Oh, Henry!

DECEMBER 2023

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ARIETE HOSPITALITY GROUP

which I have tweaked through the years. When we opened The Gibson Room, the overall idea was to elevate the cuisine of the Shenandoah neighborhood, which is the neighborhood I grew up in and my family still lives in. A humble dish like tamal en cazuela (a corn porridge) is traditionally served with crispy pork.

But at The Gibson it is served with Hudson Valley foie gras and “mojo” of dehydrated fruit and crispy duck confit. This makes it an epic dish, to say the least.

ARIET GR

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drink at The Oyster Bar, maybe stop into Chug’s Diner for a coffee, and later experience a 12-course tasting at Ariete.

You’re making your mark in Downtown Miami with Brasserie Laurel. What’s the concept behind the restaurant? How does it fit into downtown’s evolving restaurant landscape?

Brasserie Laurel … man, I really do love that place. The menu speaks to old brasserie meets French nouvelle with some whimsy. It is really a love story I have with classic French cuisine. The opportunity to be a part of downtown and pioneer dining there is something I am very proud of.

We’re obsessed with so many of your dishes, but could you walk us through a personal favorite from one of your restaurants?

Tamal en cazuela at The Gibson Room stands out to me. It’s based off my abuela’s recipe,

E HO SPI TA LIT Y

With numerous accolades under his belt—including a Michelin-starred restaurant—chef Michael Beltran is an inspiring local success story. Born and raised in Little Havana, Beltran layers his Cuban-American roots and global influences into an eclectic (and ever-growing) set of Magic City restaurants. The latest plot point for the 39-yearold? The Oyster Bar in CocoWalk Coconut Grove, an intimate showcase of his talents, with seafood as his muse. The noted chef sat down with Aventura to dish on his fabulous new additions to the restaurant landscape, awards, motivation, and more. (ariete hospitality.com)

X

BY PAUL RUBIO

Aventura: How did opening your first restaurant, Ariete, in 2016 pave the way for your future in the Miami restaurant scene?

Beltran: Ariete, my first love and what I feel is my first child, was always the dream and it continues to be. Every day I almost need to pinch myself to believe that it is real. Ariete is the foundation of the home I have created, and it has set the standard of my Ariete Hospitality Company as a whole.

With so many of your restaurants in Coconut Grove, it seems that you have a special spot for the neighborhood. Tell us more about that and about one of your latest additions there, The Oyster Bar. The Grove embodies so much culture and truly captures the feeling of Miami—what’s not to love? It’s a home for bohemian culture and beautiful waterfront views, [and] overall, a very special place to be. The vision for The Oyster Bar [and soon, its companion restaurant, Eva] is to continue that beautiful culture that the Grove is known for. We encourage guests to spend a day in the Grove, enjoy a

UP

S VA RI

CHEF MICHAEL BELTRAN DISHES ON HIS GROWING PORTFOLIO OF MAGIC CITY RESTAURANTS

JA CL YN

Made in MIAMI

O

Q&A

Clockwise from left: Michael Beltran; the Farmer appetizer at Ariete; shrimp escabeche at The Oyster Bar; escargots in puff pastry with herb butter and horseradish cream at Brasserie Laurel.

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E ET RI

IT TAL SP I HO

Y G R O UP

ARIETE HOSPITALITY GROUP

Clockwise from inset: cast-iron pancake at Chug’s Diner; the bar at Brasserie Laurel; tamal en cazuela at The Gibson Room.

It was no surprise to see Ariete garner a Michelin star. But we were excited to see Chug’s Diner— a love letter to your Cuban-American roots—also get a Michelin Bib Gourmand Award. What does all the recognition mean to you?

Recognition is nice, but the response we have received from the community is what makes it most special.

Often, I will get stopped by someone

on the streets and they will convey how proud they are of Ariete and Chug’s. Telling a new Cuban and Cuban-American story through food and on the world stage is something that makes me emotional just thinking about it. However, it also means there is still work to do. The standard of excellence has been raised for us as a company and we keep pushing to improve. To me, it is very special. It means that there is a prep cook who started as a dishwasher and has now progressed to carry a Michelin star with them forever. That is a

feeling that you could never put a price tag on.

At which of your restaurants are we most likely to find your family hanging out and why?

Easy—Chug’s. The food at Chug’s is inviting, fun, and new. My nieces love a good croqueta, a delicious pancake, and a slice of pastry chef Devin Braddock’s Chocolate Pie (an ode to the original Burger King Hershey’s Chocolate Pie). Chug’s has so much to offer and it’s simply a welcoming and comfy place to dine and hang out.

A

DECEMBER 2023

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SIP&SAVOR PIZZA

Rewind a decade when Italy native Renato Viola arrived in Miami after the U.S. government granted him a special O-1 visa, an immigration status reserved for “individuals with extraordinary ability or achievement.”

Unlike most who are awarded this visa for excellence in the sciences, the arts, education, business, or athletics, Viola earned his with a rather unique talent: pizza making. His signature star-shaped thin-crust pies, framed by eight ricotta-stuffed pockets, sealed his fate and soon became the star attraction—pun intended—at his aptly named Mister O1 pizza joint on Michigan Avenue in South Beach.

Fast-forward 10 years, and Viola’s pizza empire now spans eight South Florida locations, including outposts in Aventura, Brickell,

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COURTESY OF MISTER 01

STAR QUALITY

Coconut Grove, Fort Lauderdale, and Wynwood, with a menu that includes the 13-inch star pies plus 8-inch traditional and specialty pizzas, burrata selections, salads, wine, and beer. The awards continue to roll in, from “Best Pizza in Florida” by Food & Wine magazine in 2021 to the original location’s presence in the 2023 Florida Michelin Guide. Meanwhile, O1 continues to take over neighborhoods in the 305, with Bay Harbor on the horizon. Expansions into Madrid, Spain, and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, are also in the works. (mistero1.com) –P.R.

AVENTURA MAGAZINE

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SWEETS

COURTESY OF KLEENSWEETS

GOOD AND GOOD FOR YOU It’s not often that the terms healthy, holiday, and dessert are used together, but Miami-based dessert delivery service Kleansweets is changing that. Owner and chef Marina Arsenicheva has cultivated a business of nutritious, plant-based, eyecatching desserts that are sure to steal the limelight of any holiday spread (while keeping your waistline trim).

From the apple caramel and vanilla cream tart to the stunning pistachio and raspberry flower power cake and the addic-

tive chocolate and berry tart, each vegan beauty is packed with nuts and fresh fruits, sweetened with dates, and crowned artistically for maximum presentation value. The chocolate and berry tart, for example, rises from a dense crust of almonds, almond flour, coconut flakes, cacao powder, dates, and sea salt. It is then layered with a blended berry filling and coconut-cashew-cocoa cream, and garnished with melted dark chocolate, raspberries, blackberries, figs, and fresh mint leaves. (kleansweets.com) —P.R.

DECEMBER 2023

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MINDFUL MIXOLOGIST

Ode to an Apple

O

L EL VI CO CA S E C N FRA

THIS FESTIVE FRUIT PLAYS A STARRING ROLE IN WINTRY CELEBRATIONS

BY JULES ARON

With apples being one of the few winter fruits available around the world during the season of cheer, is it any wonder that the crisp, crimson pome found its way into so many holiday traditions? In pagan times, individuals decorated trees with apples, fruits, and nuts during the winter solstice, a practice that Christians eventually adopted.

As part of Rosh Hashanah, Jewish families dip apple slices into honey to represent their hope for a sweet and fruitful year ahead.

Apples are often used as decorations, as in a pomander, from the French pomme d’ambre, where cloves are pierced into the flesh of an apple and incorporated into a holiday centerpiece. They are also often given as stocking stuffers and gifts.

In Eastern European Christmas traditions, young men gift decorated apples to young women. In Asian stores, you may find apples wrapped in festive paper ready for gifting.

For me, there’s no better way to celebrate the season than with a crisp, sparkling bevvy. With so many indulgent meals and heavy drinks during December, a light and bright apple sparkler is simply rejuvenating. Here’s one I’m loving this month.

X Holiday Orchard Ingredients 1 1/2 oz. Upstate Vodka, a handcrafted, apple-based spirit 1 oz. fresh-pressed apple juice 1/ 2 oz. fresh-pressed ginger juice 1/ 2 oz. chai-spiced syrup 2 oz. sparkling cider

TARA GRAY

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Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice and shake well. Strain into a chilled coupe glass and garnish lavishly with sliced apples, dried cinnamon apple cubes, and cinnamon sticks.

AVENTURA MAGAZINE

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HOME

KRIS TAMBURELLO

FROM CIT Y TO SHORE, THE FINE ART OF MIAMI LIVING

INTERIORS

REWRITING HISTORY It may seem surprising that a young couple in their mid-thirties with three small children sought to make a grand Italianate manse in Coconut Grove their family home, yet the address proved to be the perfect fit for these avid art collectors who love to entertain.

“We had two missions here,” says Matthew MacDonald, the Miami designer the couple enlisted to modernize the house. “We wanted to retain many of the original architectural details of this stately [structure], design around them, and use this as a giant space for the clients’ important art collection while creating a home—not a museum.”

MacDonald sought to blend the couple’s contemporary art pieces with the home’s traditional architecture and restore many of its original finishes.

He also selected fabrics and furniture that accentuate

the exquisite artworks in each room.

“It was clear from the start that we needed to lighten the original mood of the home to reflect the tastes of its new, more youthful occupants,” says MacDonald. The designer opened the family room area up, connecting it to a bar and wine room with access to the kitchen. “I knew when we conceptualized the space and laid out the room that it would prove to be the place of gathering for the family—and indeed it is,” he adds. “[The homeowners] are definitely bon vivants, so they were so fun to work with,” continues MacDonald. “It was clear their home would be used for yearround entertaining, so practicality was a component, but style and design were never compromised.” (macdonalddesign.net) —Jeanne de Lathouder DECEMBER 2023

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HOME BUILT TO LAST

BY DESIGN

Finding space to convert into a built-in bar can be a challenge. If you have a spare closet in your main living or kitchen area, it can easily be reworked into a bar. If the depth is at least 24 inches (standard for most closets), it can fit a beverage refrigerator or wine cooler and even cabinetry. To make the space pop, consider adding mirrors, installing backsplash tile to the walls above the countertop, or using open shelving for storage and display.

RAISING

THE BAR TIP YOUR GLASS TO THESE IDEAS FOR CREATING A FUN AND FUNCTIONAL IN-HOME BAR AREA

BY ALENA CAPRA R DA DESIGN WORKS

NOBLES

THE BAR CART IS A CLASSIC (AND CLASSY) PIECE TO INCORPORATE INTO YOUR HOME. ON A FUNCTIONAL LEVEL, A CART CAN FILL OUT AN EMPTY CORNER OF A ROOM NICELY. IT’S A FUN ITEM TO STYLE AS WELL; THIS IS A GREAT PLACE TO DISPLAY SPECIAL GLASSES, BAR ACCESSORIES, DECANTERS, AND BEAUTIFUL BOTTLES.

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Although not technically a bar, let’s not overlook the everpopular wine wall. This has become a top request of many homeowners and is a beautiful feature to add to a wall in a dining or living area.

It’s not hard to execute this design feature: add accent lighting, wall-mounted wine racks, and a glass enclosure.

They take up a small amount of space, too; most wine walls only require about 15 inches of depth for clearance.

OUT WITH IT In South Florida, outdoor entertaining is key. For outdoor built-in bars, choose a countertop material that holds up against UV rays, such as natural stone (quartzite), porcelain slabs, or an engineered material like Dekton.

TAKE A SEAT

CARACOLE

KRIS TAMBURELLO

OFF THE WALL

GRUPO MOLIOR

CART PATH

JONATHAN ADLER

When it comes to in-home entertaining, a bar is usually high on the list of must-haves. Whether it’s a built-in bar or a freestanding cart, or whether your setting is indoors or outdoors, here’s some inspo for beautiful spaces to enjoy a cocktail or two. (alenacapra designs.com)

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Deciding between a typical bar height (42 inches) or a counter height (36 inches) is a personal preference. If you and your guests will be doing more standing than sitting, go with the taller option and add barstools. For a more sitdown affair, choose the lower height with counter stools.

Either way, swivel seating is the way to go, as it will make your bar space more conversation-friendly.

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ELEMENTS

TO THE MAX

FROM BOLD COLORS TO VIBRANT PATTERNS, MORE IS MORE WITH MAXIMALISM

BY LIZA GRANT SMITH

SUNSHINE STATE Catch some rays with Regina Andrew’s Zon mirror ($1,375), which shines with texture and visual intrigue. Design Shop by Shell, Coconut Grove (shelldesignshop.com)

ON THE PROWL Graphic artist Marcello Velho created this statement-making Catwalk petite accent chair ($848) for Anthropologie. Anthropologie, Palm Beach Gardens (anthropologie.com) IN THE ABSTRACT The gallery-worthy print on this Dana Gibson pillow ($215) makes it a sophisticated addition to a couch or chair. Abode Home, Key Largo (shop abodehomedesign.com)

EMILIO COLLAVINO

POINT TO YES Color blocking adds a graphic punch to this split reversible place mat ($260 for set of four) from Von Gern Home.

Destry Darr Designs, Fort Lauderdale (destrydarrdesigns.com)

GROOVY, BABY Lourdes Gabriela Suárez of Lourdes Gabriela Interiors modernized this Brickell pied-à-terre and created a fun hub for hosting parties and family sleepovers. “The picture in my head was of a cool, gutsy, weekend apartment with vintage elements,” says Suárez. “Artwork dispersed throughout the apartment inspired a lively gallery wall. The Jonathan Adler and Robert Abbey sconces continue the far-out ’70s vibe. The sleeper sofa was an existing piece that I redesigned with a tufted bench cushion and a shocking magenta fabric before adding Jonathan Adler needlepoint pillows.” Miami (lourdesgabriela.com)

SPIRIT GUIDE A master of maximalism, designer Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen explains how to embrace exuberance in More More More: Making Maximalism Work in Your Home and Life ($25).

Barnes & Noble locations (barnesandnoble.com)

PITCH BLACK Elk Home’s ’s contemporary Torny table lamp ($299) features a bold silhouette with raised nodules and a glossy finish. LBU Lighting, North Miami Beach (lbulighting.com)

PURPLE REIGN Rich in color and material, this oversize Paley throw ($1,398) by Matouk is woven from Mongolian cashmere. Loom Luxury Linens, Dania Beach (loomlux.com)

DEPARTURE LOUNGE Create a British Colonial–inspired reading nook with Anthropologie’s handcrafted Venus rattan day bed ($998). Anthropologie locations (anthropologie.com)

DECEMBER 2023

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IBI DESIGNS

MICHAEL WALL

HOME

INSPIRED LIVING NICHOLAS DEJESU

FAN THE

TURN UP THE HEAT WITH SOME MODERN TWISTS ON TRADITIONAL FIREPLACES

BY LIZA GRANT SMITH

If you think fireplaces are only for roasting chestnuts and hanging stockings, then you are missing out on their aesthetic potential. While our subtropical temperatures may designate South Florida an atypical setting for fire features, modern applications have recast them as stylish showstoppers capable of delivering visual sizzle. Here are a few of their latest starring roles, with some eye-catching local examples.

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FLAMES ON ACCENT WALLS With advances in electric fireplaces, design options are no longer weighed down by chimney requirements (sorry, Santa). Many homeowners are taking advantage of this carte-blanche opportunity to create accent walls around their fireplaces. Materials can include everything from marble, onyx, and stone, to more unconventional choices like leather or a dynamic wallcovering. The narrow rectangular styling of many electronic fireplaces, plus the absence of a mantle, puts an exclamation point on the impact of the wall itself. While stunning in a main living room, this concept is scalable and can also be employed in rooms with smaller walls, such as bedrooms. Thanks to this trend, the new buzzwords in fireplace design are “bold” and “luxurious.”

AS A ROOM-FLOW FACILITATOR See-through fireplaces are an exciting way to double a fixture’s design impact while maintaining a home’s open concept. This type of fireplace may be fitted with glass on opposing sides or up to four sides for a dramatic, 360-degree effect. It’s a smart option for when you want to divide a space without impeding the visual flow and light between two areas.

IN NEW SURROUNDS While fireplaces have historically been common features in traditional homes, they’re becoming more and more popular within a range of architectural styles. Customizing a fireplace to fit a room’s mood allows it to go anywhere from modern to Moroccan and deliver the same finishing effect as it does in more traditional

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DANIEL NEWCOMB

AS A NO-HEAT SHOWPIECE No more waiting for a chilly night to light the fire: electric fireplaces are now available in no-heat varieties, meaning you can turn one on to enhance a room’s ambience without raising its temp.

While you may opt for a traditional log-andflame look, these trending alternatives are often Wi-Fi-enabled and allow you to control the flame color (including golden yellow, purple, and rose), brightness level, flickering effects, and ambient crackling sound, if desired.

Using innovative materials for large-scale fireplace surrounds can create captivating statement walls (Muse Design Studio, opposite page far left; P&H Interiors, opposite page top right; and J Design Group, this page). Leaving a fireplace open (Luxe Design Studio, opposite page, bottom right) adds sophistication and can improve flow.

rooms—if not more. Playing with the texture and color of the backdrop will help to harmonize the space for a consistent design statement. The idea is to work toward an effortless feel where all the elements play off one another.

IN THE GREAT OUTDOORS Fireplaces on patios and within pool environs remain popular. They are often installed under televisions to complete a wall and add a dynamic pop of color thanks to their new flame features.

And with the installation of a see-through fireplace, you are afforded views of both your backyard tableau and your favorite sporting event without having to leave your cushy chaise lounge.

Table Tops by Nomi

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Designer: Nomi Rubinstein

TABLESCLOTHSBYNOMI DECEMBER 2023

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DY OF THE MANOR BUYING INFORMATION

A

BOU TI QU E

DERMATOLOGY PRACTICE

PAGE 74 Multicolor sequin dress ($14,000), Valentino, Aventura Mall, Bal Harbour Shops, Miami Design District, valentino.com PAGE 75 Yellow silk evening dress with printed detail ($19,000), mid-heel slides in black neoprene fabric ($1,250), Gucci, Aventura Mall, Bal Harbour Shops, Miami Design District, gucci.com

Newsha Lajevardi, MD B O A R D - C E R T I F I E D D E R M AT O L O G I S T

(305) 330-9933

PAGE 76 Net dress (price upon request), bralette (price upon request), briefs (price upon request), Metamorphose necklace (price upon request), Dior, Miami Design District, dior.com PAGE 77 Kavya printed sequin minidress ($2,190), Silvia Tcherassi, Coral Gables, silviatcherassi.com; Valentino Garavani Rockstud pumps ($1,350), Valentino, Aventura Mall, Bal Harbour Shops, Miami Design District, valentino.com.

WWW.NEWSHADERM.COM AVENTURA MEDICAL TOWER 2801 NE 213th St., Suite 1005 | Aventura, FL

PAGE 78 Knit dress ($8,200), Slash biker boots in blood red ($1,900), Alexander McQueen, Bal Harbour Shops, Miami Design District, alexandermcqueen.com

DAY OR NIGHT the Aventura Magazine

PAGE 79 Sheer detail beaded mini tank dress ($16,500), draped wool toile jacket ($9,100), Illusion ankle boots ($2,470), Biface 20-mm belt ($475), Louis Vuitton, Aventura Mall, Miami Design District, us.louisvuitton.com

is your weekly guide to what’s happening!

PAGE 80 Draped tulle dress ($1,998), cutout kitten heels ($398), teardrop earrings ($228), resin bracelet set ($298), Tory Burch, Aventura Mall, Miami Design District, toryburch.com

Go to the sign up page

PAGE 81 Shaded sequin tulle top ($5,450), striped cotton jacquard skirt ($4,400), patent calfskin and grosgrain bow heels ($1,375), lambskin, metal, and glass belt ($4,250), metal and glass belt ($1,500), metal necklace ($1,150), metal and glass necklace ($1,050), metal and strass earrings (price upon request), Chanel, Aventura Mall, Bal Harbour Shops, Miami Design District, chanel.com PAGE 82 AND COVER Strapless bugle bead wave embroidered gown ($9,290), Oscar de la Renta, oscardelarenta.com; metallic heels (price upon request), Louis Vuitton, Aventura Mall, Miami Design District, us.louisvuitton.com.

PAGE 83 Garden print frill long dress in mint ($2,500), Ryder wedge shoes ($895), Stella McCartney, Bal Harbour Shops, stellamccartney.com

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SOCIAL STUDIES SEEN ON THE SCENE IN SOUTH FLORIDA

JEILYN DIAZ, JOEL CHAVEZ

NICK D. ANNUNZIO, MICHELE SOFFER, SARAH SAIGER

JONAIKY MIRANDA, JOYCE GATO, JACKIE SOFFER, GUSTAVO CADILE, HOWARD WEINBERG

AT THE ALTAR WHO: Altar by Gustavo Cadile WHAT: Grand opening WHERE: Aventura Mall HIGHLIGHTS: Cadile debuted his new 50-piece Orchid Collection of bridal couture and red-carpet gowns with a runway show to celebrate his U.S. flagship store.

WORLD RED EYE

DON SOFFER, TARA SOLOMON

KRISTEN DESMOND LEFEVRE

GUSTAVO CADILE

MICHELE SOFFER, ELYSZE HELD

ANDREA PEREZ, LUIS ORTEGA

DECEMBER 2023

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SOCIAL STUDIES GINO LOPINTO

MONICA ABREU, GABRIEL BELTREN CATE KALIFEA

PLAYING HARD ELIANA MOCKLER, JELIAH

CUBA GOODING JR.

WHO: Playboy Spirits WHAT: The national launch party for Play Hard, a premium line of vodka seltzers that features Andy Warhol’s iconic artwork on the packaging and cans WHERE: E11even Miami HIGHLIGHTS: Miami hosted the worldwide brand launch, featuring red carpet celebrations, Cirque du Soleil acts, guest DJs, Warhol-inspired activations, and more.

CARMEN CARRERA

LAURA KESMINAITE, CHRISTIN SCHULTZ

TIFFANY SAGE / BFA.

MADDY ANDERSON, KIKI TOPLAN

100 AVENTURA MAGAZINE

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IMMIGRATION PERSONAL INJURY FAMILY LAW

LUIS CAPECCHI

MARY CHAMBLEE CRAFT

ELIZABETH AMARAN, ESQ. ATTORNEY AT LAW AREAS OF PRACTICE •EMPLOYMENT-BASED • EMPLOYMENT-BASED VISAS VISAS•INVESTMENT INVESTMENTVISAS VISAS•EXTRAORDINARY • EXTRAORDINARY ABILITIES ABILITIESVISAS VISAS •LABOR • LABOR CERTIFICATION CERTIFICATION•STUDENT • STUDENTVISAS VISAS•FAMILY • FAMILYBASED BASEDVISAS/ VISAS/ADJUSTMENTS ADJUSTMENTS •ASYLUMS • ASYLUMS•NATURALIZATIONS • NATURALIZATIONS•DETENTION • DETENTIONAND ANDREMOVAL REMOVAL •VICTIMS • VICTIMSOF OFDOMESTIC DOMESTIC VIOLENCE VIOLENCE •VISAS • VISAS FORFOR CRIMINAL CRIMINAL ACTS ACTSWITNESS WITNESS •AUTOMOBILE AUTOMOBILE ACCIDENTS ACCIDENTS •SLIP/ • SLIP/ FALLFALL INCIDENTS INCIDENTS •PRODUCTS • PRODUCTSLIABILITY LIABILITY•PRE/POSTNUPTIAL • PRE/POSTNUPTIAL AGREEMENTS AGREEMENTS •DIVORCES • DIVORCES•PATERNITY/ • PATERNITY/ CUSTODY CUSTODY•CHILD • CHILD SUPPORT/ SUPPORT/ALIMONY ALIMONY •ENFORCEMENT • ENFORCEMENTACTIONS ACTIONS

FREE CONSULTATION Payment Plans Available

(305) 931.3500 CELIA FLORENZE

TIMUR TUGBERK

JONATHAN VAZQUEZ, NOAH GRAY, LIZ BURNS

We Speak English Spanish Russian ELIZABETH AMARAN, ESQ.

Aventura View 2999 NE 191st Street Suite 704 Aventura, FL 33180 *HIRING AN ATTORNEY IS AN IMPORTANT DECISION AND SHOULD NOT BE BASED SOLELY ON ADVERTISEMENT. BEFORE YOU MAKE A DECISION, REQUEST FREE WRITTEN INFORMATION ABOUT OUR QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE.

DECEMBER 2023

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SOCIAL STUDIES

ALI AND DANIELLE MANDSAURWALA

GABRIELA BENITEZ, MONIQUE POPE, MARISOL GARCIA, STEPHANIE CORTIJO, DR. MARIA FRANCO, IVELISSE CORTIJO

MELISA LEVENSON, CHRISTEN VON LEHNDEN, CAROLINE MEDEIROS

BRITO DERBYS, DAYANA MARTINEZ, JENNIFER AND DAVID TIRRI, DANIELA MARTINEZ, DIEGO HERNANDEZ

DR. MARIA FRANCO, STEPHANIE CORTIJO, IVELISSE CORTIJO

MONIQUE POPE, GABRIELA BENITEZ

IT’S A JUNGLE OUT THERE WHO: Nicklaus Children’s Young Ambassadors WHAT: Tenth Annual Fashion Gives Back WHERE: Jungle Island HIGHLIGHTS: The event raised key funds to support the Kenneth C. Griffin Surgical Tower and health care institutes at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital.

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CARLA VASS, CHRISTEN VON LEHNDEN, DANI LLOBET, CAROLINE MEDEIROS

MAYA VANDER, LAUREN AND ANDREW HEGYI, CARLY WILLIAMS, MARK KREISLER GABRIELA BENITEZ, MONIQUE POPE, CARMEN HIDALGO, SHELI MUÑIZ

We love our patients and it shows Leonard Pianko M.D FACC Graduate of Mount Sinai Medical School.

Voted “Best Doctor” by Castle Connolly.

ADAM CAVA

JUAN ANGARITA, RAMONA MESSORE, SAMANTA FERRINI, BILLY POPPELL

Board Certified in Internal Medicine & Cardiovascular disease.

Best of VIP care.

House calls, nursing home & assisted living visits.

NICKLAUS CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL

Accredited Nuclear Stress, Ultrasound & Echo Labs.

Aventura Cardiovascular Center 21097 NE 27th CT., Suite 110, Aventura, Fl 33180

305.932.2441 DECEMBER 2023

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LAST LOOK

SHELL YEAH «

Crafted from more than 45,000 shells by local resident Roger Abramson, this outsize menorah and an equally large dreidel are displayed annually on Miami Beach’s Lincoln Road and have served as a gathering point during the holiday season for more than two decades. On December 7, the Jewish community will again congregate around Abramson’s creations to mark the first night of Hanukkah. Rabbi Zev Katz, of Chabad Jewish Synagogue of Miami Beach-South Beach, has been holding the annual celebration with Abramson’s menorah for years. He notes that the shellcovered statues still have the same draw as they did when they were first installed. “If you are looking for light in your life, Hanukkah is that holiday,” Katz says. “A menorah lighting can light up your life.” (chabadin southbeach.com) —Kristen Desmond LeFevre

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ELEVATE YOUR SLEEP QUALITY THIS HOLIDAY SEASON WITH AVENTURA MATTRESS This holiday season, give yourself the gift of a restful night’s sleep. At Aventura Mattress, we specialize in providing top-quality mattresses and exceptional customer service, ensuring your comfort and well-being.

Tania Yumbla, the owner of Aventura Mattress, is passionate about delivering the best in sleep quality.

Her expertise and dedication are here to assist you in finding your perfect mattress, setting the stage for rejuvenated mornings.

Upgrade your life’s quality with Aventura Mattress. Visit us today and experience the difference that truly comfortable sleep can make this holiday season.

AventuraMattress.com 15516 Biscayne Blvd, North Miami Beach, FL 33160

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