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Bangkok Victoria Falls Siracusa Provence Dubai Abu Dhabi Ras Al Khaimah Eritrea Irland

The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah Al Wadi Desert

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Emerald Palace Kempinski Dubai, Villamoré Restaurant

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Le Saint-Rémis, Provence

EDITORIAL Ovidio Guaita, International Editor-in-Chief

O

nce upon a time there used to be the Journey to Italy. Goethe celebrated it to the nth degree with his diary, telling us how the journey was undertaken in the 18th century. It consisted of carriages, hospitality from locals and inns - not always of good reputation - and excellent food.

For those scions of the Mitteleuropean nobility who came mainly to have fun - hence no writers nor artists - it was tradition to buy some views of the cities visited. It was then that the eighteenth-century landscape painting originated – Canaletto being the undisputed master.

Today between a selfie and a post, paintings are only for those who go against the grain and have more space at home than memory on the phone. Meanwhile, the trip to Italy now, at least for Europeans, has been replaced by the Journey ... to the Emirates.

This is just what we did, with an itinerary by car and seaplane, in search of the novelties that this magical region holds for us

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CONTENTS

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The Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls, Zambia

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Verdura Resort Sciacca, Italia

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Ballyfin Demesne Ballyfin, Ireland

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Pula Istria, Croatia

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Domain de Capelongue Provence, France

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Le Saint-RĂŠmy Provence, France

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The Ritz-Carlton Dubai Dubai

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The Ritz-Carlton Al Hamra Beach Ras Al Khaimah

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The Ritz-Carlton Al Wadi Desert Ras Al Khaimah

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The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi Grand Canal Abu Dhabi

special UAE

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Emirates Palace Abu Dhabi

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Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Yamm Abu Dhabi

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Seawings Seaplane Tours Dubai

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Emerald Palace Kempinski Dubai Dubai

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lifeStyle

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Longevity Life Quality

CONTENTS

www.palidano.com

E X C L U S I V E

D E S T I N A T I O N S

2014

HOTEL COLONIALI

2014

H otels &

Resorts Ov id io

a ait Gu

Ovidio Guaita

2019 PalidanoPress

Places to Stay in Florence & Nearby

HOTEL COLONIALI PP

T op I t a lia n Top Italian Hotels & Resorts

The best properties among hotels and resorts have been chosen - all of them visited and evaluated. Go beyond your expectations. Let yourself be led by your emotions for a stay that will never be more memorable.

This directory offers an annotated and up-todate instrument for the possible destinations for those who want to stay in the city or nearby. This because sometimes it is not only a question of price but rather attention to detail, passion and taste.

Questa directory offre uno strumento aggiornato e ragionato sulle possibili destinazioni per chi vuole soggiornare in città o nelle vicinanze. Perché a volte non è solo questione di prezzo ma di attenzione al dettaglio, passione e gusto.

L’autore, Paolo Gerbaldo, è inviato di Resorts Magazine.

Le strutture migliori tra hotel e resort.

Tutte visitate e valutate. Andate oltre le vostre aspettative, lasciatevi guidare dalle emozioni per un soggiorno che non potrà che essere memorabile.

Top 100

Top 100

Dal Settecento fino alla seconda guerra mondiale. Due secoli di lusso ai tropici, tra ventilatori a pale, verande, tè pomeridiani e stuoli di servitori. Molti in Asia ma anche nelle colonie africane e in Centro America.

Una storia affascinante di lungimiranti investitori, pionieri e avventurieri costellata di nomi eccellenti come Raffles, Peninsula e Strand. Questa directory ci mostra i migliori esempi sopravvissuti dove sperimentare esperienze e atmosfere d’altri tempi.

aggiornare ISBN PalidanoPress Four Seasons Hotel Firenze

PP

Top 100 P l aces t o St ay i n

F l or en ce Four Seasons Hotel Firenze

M O S T

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and nearb y PalidanoPress

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XIV, n. 86 2019 International Editor-in-Chief Ovidio Guaita Senior Editor Lawrence Taylor Contributors Elsa Bozzaotra, Riccardo Casano, Maria Coscarelli, Paola Di Girolamo, Paolo Gerbaldo, Alessandra Jovinelli, Pamela McCourt Francescone, Hasrudin Bin Tazep Translations Lawrence Taylor, Agnese Frullatori Photos Ovidio Guaita, Lawrence Taylor, Paolo Gerbaldo, Pamela McCourt Francescone, Ente per il turismo dell’Istria, Seawings, hotels and resorts published Video for iPad and iPhone app Roberto Sessoli Graphic Project Niccolò Angeli www.nican.me Layout Graphic Department Palidano Press Public Relations Daniela Libero Subscription Europe 300 € Rest of the World 350 € Publisher PalidanoPress Kemp House, 152 - 160 City Road London EC1V 2NX (UK) Palidano Press is a Trade Mark of Palidano LLC

2701 Centerville Rd. New Castle County Wilmington, Delaware 19808 (USA) © 2019 Palidano LLC ISSN 2043-6629 www.resorts.it

Cover: The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah Al Wadi Desert. Rights Abu Dhabi from Seawings seaplane.

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our destinations All resorts published are choosen by the editorial staff and tested by our journalists-inspectors.

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Moscow Stresa Chaing Mai Paris Limone Tokyo Budapest Vienna Ho Chi Minh Bangkok

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New York Palace Budapet The Dedica Anthology

TOP LODGE | VICTORIA FALLS

The Royal Livingstone Hotel

L

by Anantara, Victoria Falls

ocated in the lush rainforest of the Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park and nestled on the banks of the Zambesi, The Royal Livingstone Hotel by Anantara offers, just steps away from the glorious Victoria waterfalls, comfort and top-quality services.

The architectural forms of the Royal Livingstone underwent the influence of the classic English colonial style. Verandas. Fans. The use of wood. English lawns. Environments, like the Royal Livingstone Lounge, which inspire a sense of African adventure. In this corner of Zambia, the marriage between colonial architectural inspiration and the magic of the place is harmoniously successful.

The rooms favor materials and elegant classic furnishings. Walking through the resort, it is not uncommon to come across zebras and impalas in this large oasis dedicated to contact with nature and relaxation.

For our gastronomic experience we choose - without having to regret it - to abandon the certainties of European cuisine in favor of the subtle revisitation of local dishes proposed at The Royal Livingstone Dining Room.

The magical shifting of the sun over the waters of the Zambesi that we admire from the sundeck while sipping a cocktail is just another plus given

by The Royal Livingstone. The visit to the Victoria waterfalls, reachable from the resort in just a few minutes thanks to the convenient transfer by golf buggy that goes to the reserved entrance, is, of course, unforgettable. A few steps from one of the great wonders of nature, The Royal Livingstone Hotel

by Anantara offers an experience with unique features.

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Paolo Gerbaldo

INFO HOTEL

THE ROYAL LIVINGSTONE Victoria Falls, Zambia www.anantara.com Rooms & Suites 173 Villas 0 - Restaurants 1 Spa yes Children yes Chain Anantara Affiliation none Activities excursions Score 85 Environment 97 Design 85 Service 85 Cuisine 80 Health 80 Spa 80 Rooms 86

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GOLF RESORT | SCIACCA

Verdura Resort Rocco Forte Hotels

O

n the outskirts of Sciacca, an ancient fishing village in south-western Sicily, the Verdura Resort extends within a park of 230 hectares of uncontaminated nature, dotted with orange and olive trees. The waters of the Mediterranean skim the almost 2 km of private coast, in a breathtaking contrast between the intense blue of the sea and the green of the surrounding vegetation.

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Riccardo Casano

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GOLF RESORT | SCIACCA

This is a place far from everything, immersed in silence and designed for those looking for the best green, which at Verdura was designed by the famous Californian archistar Kyle Phillips. Two golf courses with 18 holes and one with 9 offer every gaming experience, even for the most demanding golfers. To complete the sporting vocation, the Resort offers 6 clay tennis courts, a soccer field and a 60-meter infinity pool.

The strong character of the island inspires the architecture with its square and minimal lines. Natural materials, such as stone and wood, together with the warm colors of ocher and terracotta recall the typical Sicilian residences and blend with the harsh and wild beauty of the place. The majolica, mosaics and objects of local craftsmanship are the common thread between the external and internal spaces, where you can breathe the Sicilian tradition although with extremely contemporary touches.

All the 203 rooms and suites face the sea and have minimalist and elegant furnishings. Every detail is taken care of with meticulous passion.

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GOLF RESORT | SCIACCA

Brushstrokes of violet and ocher, in contrast with the white of the walls, make the atmosphere warm, intimate and enveloping. Six exclusive villas with private pools and jacuzzis are available for those in search of absolute privacy.

The various and refined gastronomic offer of Verdura is enriched by the choice of strictly seasonal ingredients, the extreme attention to the cooking mode and the exquisite combinations of flavors. Besides the simple and rustic style of the Liolà, a typical Sicilian trattoria where it is possible to taste the most authentic and traditional dishes of the island, you should try the refined Zagara, the ideal location to taste seafood delicacies, including the not-to-be-missed “broad beans macco and Mazara del Vallo prawns” accompanied by a good glass of Sicilian Catarratto wine.

Before leaving you cannot miss a last walk along the private beach, until you reach the ancient tower of the 12th century from where you can admire the sunset over the sea, aware of having found the perfect retreat at any time of year.

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INFO HOTEL

VERDURA RESORT Sciacca, Italia www.roccofortehotels.com Rooms & Suites 203 Villas 6 - Restaurants 4 Spa yes Children yes Chain Rocco Forte Hotels Affiliation none Activities golf Score 89 Environment 97 Design 95 Service 85 Cuisine 88 Health 88 Spa 86 Rooms 83

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HISTORIC HOTEL | IRELAND

Ballyfin Demesne Ballyfin Co. Laoise, Ireland

B

al l yfin D emesne, hidden beh in d h igh ston e wa l l s i n t h e t ra nqu il and l ush I r ish co unt r yside j ust t wo h our s f rom D u b li n , is a magnificent her it ag e proper t y an d 5 -star R e l a i s & Ch ate a u x.

S om e ye a r s ag o t his ar isto crat ic mansion , built by a wealthy B r i t i s h f a m i ly i n t he 1800s, u nder went eig ht year s of restoration by a n Am e r i c a n mil l io naire b r inging it to n ew levels of luxur y.

Ch os e n ye a r i n , year o u t as o ne o f t he b es t h otels in th e wor ld, th i s ve n e ra b le p at r ician residence welcomes guests with s u p e r lat i ve le vel s o f ho sp it al it y and ser vice.

Th e t we nt y ro o ms and suites are han dsomely appointed wi t h a nt i q u e s and wo r ks o f ar t t he ow n er collec ted all over th e wor l d. Wi th cano py b eds, firep l aces an d large bath rooms th e y h ave vi e ws over t he co nser vato r y, th e lak e an d th e ag e - old t re e s in t he sweep ing p ar k l ands. R omantic s will like th e G a rd e n e r ’s Co t t ag e nex t to t he main h ouse, a ch ar min g l it t le h ou s e t hat b el o ng ed to t he est ate’s garden er. On th e f i r s t f loor i t h a s a do ub l e b edro o m w it h t wo bath rooms, an d d own s t a i r s a larg e l iving ro o m w it h t wo fireplaces an d views ove r t h e ol d wal l ed veg et ab l e g arden.

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Th e m a gn i f i cent S al o o n at t he hear t of th e h ouse an d th e e i ght y- foot Lib rar y are made fo r moments of elegant re la x at i on , whil e amo ng t he French-inspired decoration s in th e G ol d D raw ing ro o m hang s a chandel ier from th e palace of Na p ole on’s young er sister.

I n t h e St ate Dining R o o m, w it h it s magn ificent ch an delier s, a n d i n t h e m o re int imate D en H ag en R oom, wh ic h h as a coll e c t i on of her it ag e p o rcel ain, t he ch ef proposes refin ed m e n u s. Am ong t he many del ig ht s o n th e h ear t y breakfast ta b le a re h om e -made jams and ho ney from th e garden s.

G u e s t s c a n c ho se to discover t he est ate on bic ycles or in a h or s e - d rawn car r iag e, t r y t heir hand at clay-pigeon sh ootin g, te n n i s a n d f a l co nr y o r visit ancient cit ies like K ilken ny. Th ere i s a ls o a cove red sw imming p o o l and a spa, an d golfer s will d e l i g ht i n t h e near by K C l ub, M o u nt Juliet e Ballestreros H e r i t a ge c h a mp io nship co u rses.

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INFO HOTEL

BALLYFIN DEMESNE Ballyfin Co. Laoise, Ireland www.ballyfin.com Rooms & Suites 20 Villas 1 - Restaurants 1 Spa yes Children yes Chain Relais & Chateaux Affiliation none Activities excursions Score 85 Environment 95 Design 93 Service 90 Cuisine 90 Health 74 Spa 69 Rooms 87

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DESTINATION | ISTRIA

PULA Pula is southern Istria. A symphony of great emotions. A peninsula that is a festival of small islands and superb bays and where the lush vegetation merges with the deep blue of the Adriatic.

Paolo Gerbaldo

DESTINAZIONE | ISTRIA

We a r e in I str ia. H er e, in n or th ern C roat i a, the encount er bet w een hi s t o r y a n d n atu r e, in fact, dr a w s si nuous l and scapes w here t here i s no l ac k o f e x tr aor din ar y p oin ts of vi ew . W i th our gaze on the past, a nd o n t h e p r esen t, we th er efore travel f rom north t o sout h i n Istri a a nd e m e r ge in P u la wh ich is a si gni f i cant w i t ness t o thi s synthesi s.

Th e Ro m a n amph ith ea ter , da ting back to the 1st century AD, i s e llip t ic a l in sh ap e a n d is cer tai nl y the i deal st arti ng poi nt f or d i s c o v e r in g I str ia ’ s la r g est city . Insi d e t he arena one i s w rapped i n the whi t e I st r ia n s ton e with wh ich the tw o row s of harmoni c arches and a l i ght e xt e r n a l ellipse a r e made. The suggest i ve pl ays of l i ght bet w een t he a r c h e s, with th e blu e of th e sky as a background , af f ord rare s e n sa t io n s.

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DESTINATION | PROVENCE

The warm tones of the rocks of the Luberon massif remind us of the Grand Canyon. The fragrant fields of lavender and aromatic herbs are lost on the horizon among perched castles, stone farmhouses and expanses of olive trees and vineyards.

DESTINAZION | PROVENCE

We are in the “Golden Triangle” of the Luberon, known for being the land of the prized black truffle, as well as for excellent wines and cheeses. In this corner of Provence vivid light and pure air make us understand why so many painters moved there to draw inspiration for their works.

The towns of Bonnieux, Gordes, Lourmarin and Oppède-le-Vieux are small jewels set in postcard landscapes. In these places flavors, colors and essences mix and match to offer the visitor a landscape and a multisensory experience that reaches its peak in early summer, time of lavender blooming, but which can surprise at any time of the year.

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DESTINAZION | PROVENCE

Domain de Capelongue

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Bonnieux

n t h e hear t o f t he G o l den Tr iang l e of th e Luberon , we d i s cove r t h e e l eg ant and refined D o ma in e de Capeloun gue fa r m h ou s e. O n ce t hro u g h t he ent rance we are immer sed in a l a rge lu s h g a rden o f l avender, ro semar y, olive trees an d wild h e r b s t h at a re t he o l fac to r y and cul inar y treasure of th is quiet a n d coz y cor n e r o f Provence.

Th e p a n ora ma rang es fro m t he near by village of B on n ieux, to t h e gre e n hil l s t hat sur ro und t he st ruc ture an d th e br ight a n d c l e a r s k y t hat has a ver y sp ecial l ig ht h ere.

Th e d e cor of t he 17 ro o ms and suites is in a classic Proven c al st yle, wi t h tou ches o f mo der nit y.

Ea c h l od gi n g b ears t he name o f an au t hor, wh ose quotation s a l s o a p p e a r i n t he ent rance wal l s, o r o f a loc al plant, as a sign o f l ove a n d re sp ec t fo r t he l o cal t radit io ns.

Th e wa r m col o rs o f t he wo o d and t he sh ades of th e cream co m e tog e t h e r in a refined co mb inat io n t hat mak es us breath e t h e at m os p h e re o f a real famil y ho me.

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Riccardo Casano

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DESTINAZION | PROVENCE

Th e own e r and st ar red chef Edo u ard Loubet is used to accom p a nyi n g his g u est s o n a g o ur met jo ur n ey wh ere tradition an d i n n ovat i on merg e into a p er fec t cu lin ar y sy nth esis, an d he i s p rou d to tel l how his dishes and h is eth ic s of life are c l os e ly l i n k e d to t he ter r ito r y , to nat u re an d to its ch ildh ood.

H i s c u i s i n e h a s it s ro o t s, in fac t, in t he fa mily tradition , from ha n d e d d own recip es and fro m t he w ise use of vegetables an d s p ont a n e ou s her b s t hat he himsel f cul tivates in h is garden accord i n g to t he seaso nal c ycl es.

Th e i n gre d i ent s t hat he canno t p ro d uce per son ally are s u p p li e d by loc al p ro ducers, acco rding to th e pr in ciple of th e ze ro k i lom e te r t hat here has a real ap p l ication .

H i s vi s i on of hau te cuisine aro u ses emotion s an d h is stor ies evok e t h e c h i l dho o d memo r ies o f each o f us.

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DESTINAZION | PROVENCE

D i n i n g at t h e Bast ide de Cap el o ng ue is a sublime exper ien ce, m a d e u p of u n ique and aut hent ic fl avo rs, wh ere th e tr uffle is ne ve r m i s s i n g, a t yp ical p ro duc t o f t he Luberon th at th e c h ef i s a b l e to e n h a nce in co nt rast s o f t aste always ver y refin ed.

Th e le s s for m al at mo sp here o f La B erg er ie, bistro restaurant nex t to t h e a n c ient p ig eo n ho u se, is ideal for people in search o f t h e s i m p le s t and mo st t yp ical fl avo rs of Proven ce, as th ose o f t h e “ k i tc h e n o f o ur mo t hers� as t he chef loves to say. Th ere yo u c a n n ot m i ss gr il l ed meat s acco mp anied by excellent loc al wi n e s, s om e of w hich are p ro duced by Edouard Loubet h imself.

Th e r i c h l a n dscap e, to g et her w it h a war m, flawless welcome an d a n e t h i c a l and excit ing cu isine, ma ke th e D omain e de Ca p e lon gu e a g o u r met dest inat io n and a refuge in th e silent be a u t y t h at tou ches al l t he senses, at any time of th e year.

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INFO HOTEL

DOMAIN DE CAPELONGUE Bonnieux, France http://capelongue.com Rooms & Suites 17 Villas 0 - Restaurants 2 Spa yes Children yes Chain none Affiliation Relais & Chateaux Activities excursions Score 76 Environment 90 Design 84 Service 65 Cuisine 92 Health 61 Spa 68 Rooms 74

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Le Saint-Rémy Saint-Rémy de Provence

E

l eg ance and size are con stant elements th at c h a ra c te r ize H ô tel Le S aint-R émy. I n th e h ear t of th e wellk n own re s or t o f S aint-R émy de Provence, th e Hotel grants its g u e s t s gra ce s w it h t ac t and w ise discretion . A soph istic ated re s u lt t h at i s t he o u t l et o f different qualities in per fec t ha r m ony : a n a rchitec t ural envel o p e, décor, ser vice.

Wa l k i n g t h rou g h t he b r ig ht sp aces o f th e S aint-R émy, we f u l l y u n d e r s t a nd t he p hil o so p hy t hat led to mak in g safe c h oi ce s, s t a r t i ng fro m t he fur nishing s an d décor. Th e latter,

by R e yh a n a Ta mb o ura, p l ays master ful l y with subtrac tion . Th e con s t a nt a p p e a l to Asian and Afr ican motifs gives life, in th e room s a n d commo n areas, to inter io rs wh ere luxur y spr in gs f rom at te nt i on to t he ar t o f det ail.

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DESTINAZION | PROVENCE

Th e c a re i n t he cho ice o f mater ial s, w ith th e predomin an ce o f l i g ht wood, co nt r ib u tes to giving t he S aint-R ĂŠmy a war m an d c a p t i vat i n g to ne t hat can b e p erceive d from th e ar r ival.

The chic Brasserie, entrusted to the talented chef Julien Rigotte, confirms and completes this enchanting overall picture. In fact, the menu offers a refined selection of flavors, both land and sea, Provencal and Mediterranean. Once on the table, the dishes, both for research of the raw material and for the technique used by the Chef, do not disappoint our expectations.

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DESTINAZION | PROVENCE

Th e b on d wi th Provence is al so evident in th e use - n ot on ly i n i t s e l e ga nt Sp a - o f Vég ét al ement Proven ce produc ts: a nat u ra l cos m e t ics made fro m veg et ab l es.

Le S a i nt- R é my is a p l ace o f ho sp it alit y th at per fec tly com b i n e s t h e m o st int r ig u ing t hemes o f th e ar t de vivre with a s p a r k li n g a n d cl assy st yl e.

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INFO HOTEL

LE SAINT-REMY Saint-Rémy de Provence www.le-saint-remy.fr Rooms & Suites 31 Villas 0 - Restaurants 1 Spa yes Children yes Chain none Affiliation none Activities excursions Score 84 Environment 87 Design 88 Service 82 Cuisine 85 Health 77 Spa 80 Rooms 86

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SPECIAL | UAE

a week in ...

in cooperation with

SPECIAL | UAE

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SPECIALE | UAE

The Ritz-Carlton Dubai

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Lawrence Taylor

On one of the best beaches in Dubai stands this palmfringed resort. Located at the foot of the Jumeirah palm, it offers a spectacular view of this wonder. At our back, the most fashionable walk in the Emirate, where the shuffle smells of incense and Oudh; while languages mix and fashions too.

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SPECIAL | UAE

transfer to the resort We arrive at dusk and already we see the swarm of life (and traffic) of the walk at JBR, which the hotel faces. This is a walk of almost two kilometers near the Jumeirah Beach Residence that generates the acronym used to name the strip.

Luxury shops, other hotels and above all a continuous procession of the best supercars available on the market. If you are looking for the new Ferrari, sit at a cafĂŠ and one will pass right in front of you.

Spa experience

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We are in time for a treatment at the Spa. With 12 treatment rooms - some with terraces - the experience is ideal for relaxing after a long flight or just to get ready for the nightlife. The dĂŠcor is Arabic enough to contextualize the environment. The menu ranges from East to West with specific references to the tradition of Arabia Felix, with its minerals, perfumes and infusions of rose. The facial types offered are varied, including particularly technological ones such as Oxigen or 3D Collagenen.

The Ritz-Carlton Dubai

day one

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SPECIAL | UAE

at dinner you are spoiled by choices

The many restaurants offer a jour ney into contemporar y M iddle Easter n cuisine. We chose the red cur tains of Amaseena, in the garden, with a traditional buffet, live music and young gir ls per for ming belly dances.

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INFO HOTEL

THE RITZ-CARLTON DUBAI Dubai, UAE www.ritzcarlton.com Rooms & Suites 294 Villas 0 - Restaurants 5 Spa yes Children yes Chain The Ritz-Carlton Affiliation none Activities sea activities, excursions

In short In conclusion, a historic resort in the magic of Dubai Marina, one of the first to arise in the area and still today a point of reference for the demanding traveler.

Score 80 Environment 80 Design 80 Service 82 Cuisine 79 Health 80 Spa 79 Rooms 80

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The Ritz-Carlton Al Hamra Beach Ras Al Khaimah

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Ovidio Guaita

Only villas, only beachfront, only super exclusive.

This is the hospitality in this secluded and fascinating resort in the semi-unknown Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, a hundred kilometers from Dubai.

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in villa check-in (in the shape of a tent) The villas number only 32, all with a pr ivate swimming pool par tly in glass and protec ted from the view of others. Each one enjoys direc t access to the beach.

Ac tually, the villas look a lot like traditional tents even though they have all the comfor ts of masonr y buildings.

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The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah Al Hamra Beach

day two the beach Beach lovers will appreciate the gazebo that faces them. The beach is not really an impalpable powder, composed as it is of minerals and shells, but while walking on it the result is a pleasant massage / scrub to the sole of the foot that never hurts.

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at the spa with a view I f you have the spa in mind in dim light, where the atmosphere is created with light effec ts, per fumes and music, you will have some sur pr ises. First of all, the pavilions are spacious and sparse with a lot of pr ivac y. Then they have immense windows that open onto the Arabian S ea. M oreover, they are opened if the temperature allows it. Hence the waves will be the soundtrack of the exper ience. We tr ied the signature War m Lava Shell Exper ience, which adds the essence of the place.

Only one restaurant (r ight) with a concise menu offer ing fresh ingredients, especially local fish. G ood ser vice, excellent views, especially on the poolside deck .

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THE RITZ-CARLTON RAS AL KHAIMAH, AL HAMRA BEACH Ras Al Khaimah, UAE www.ritzcarlton.com Rooms & Suites 0 Villas 32 - Restaurants 1 Spa yes Children yes

In short

Chain The Ritz-Carlton Affiliation none Activities sea activities, excursions

Few guests, lots of space and lots of tranquility. Beautiful villas on a really wide beach.

Great for couples.

Score 81 Environment 80 Design 85 Service 82 Cuisine 78 Health 80 Spa 80 Rooms 84

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The Ritz-Carlton Al Wadi Desert Ras Al Khaimah

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Ovidio Guaita

In a villa in the desert surrounded by pools and basins. Between dunes and antelopes the dream of experiencing the desert is realized in refined comfort full of contrasts.

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Canopy Walkway & riding on the desert Moving away from the coast, you immediately enter the desert. The rocky one, but with dunes and a few bushes here and there. In half an hour we reach the deviation from the main road leading to the resort. Once we arrive we don’t waste time and immediately start the activities that will keep us busy all day. We start with a Land Rover excursion to discover the area.

Those who ride horses can choose this alternative mode which is only available from autumn to spring due to the temperature. On the way back we go to the Falcon Show held at the Falconry Deck, where the rudiments of this traditional hunting are explained with practical demonstrations and individual trials with these fantastic birds.

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The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah Al Wadi Desert

day three On camelback In the rich activity menu there are also individual camel excursions in search of the local fauna with a stop for a picnic.

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Rainforest, the hydrothermal sanctuary We return to the villa to prepare ourselves for the Rainforest, a fantastic path to the spa. Among the Turkish bath, calidarium, Finnish sauna, aromatherapy, Kneipp path chromotherapy, we reach the swimming pool with various massage stations (shoulders, back, legs and feet), to finally come out, after an hour, toned and ready for dinner.

dinner at Farmhouse As the name on the menu suggests, they offer, above all, meats of every type and from different countries (USDA Prime Beef Tenderlion, Australian Beef Striploin Black and so on), accompanied by vegetables grown on local farms. However, even fish lovers will not be disappointed.

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THE RITZ-CARLTON RAS AL KHAIMAH, AL WADI DESERT Ras Al Khaimah, UAE www.ritzcarlton.com Rooms & Suites 0 Villas 101 - Restaurants 3 Spa yes Children yes

In short A resort of only villas, well distanced, and all with swimming pools of generous dimensions (the best are those facing outwards with more privacy and views). Excellent cuisine and many activities.

Given the spaces, it is suitable for both couples and families.

Chain The Ritz-Carlton Affiliation none Activities excursions Score 85 Environment 85 Design 88 Service 81 Cuisine 80 Health 80 Spa 90 Rooms 92

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The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi Grand Canal

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Lawrence Taylor

Located between the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Al Maqta Creek, the resort evokes Venetian atmospheres by grouping various buildings around one of the largest pools in the Emirates.

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awakening with a view We arrived in the night and, while noticing the closeness to the new grand mosque, we didn’t realize how much it dominates and enriches the view from the resort. But at dawn, victims of jet lag, we are rewarded by this vision. The streetlamps in the garden are still lit when the first rays of the sun paint the white marble of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the largest mosque in the country and the desire of the Sheikh to “unite the world” with artists and materials from countless regions.

Giornonotte brunch Later, we take advantage of brunch at Giornonotte for a truly international culinary experience, wellorchestrated and of great visual impact.

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The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi Grand Canal

day four relax in the room Rooms and suites are generous in size, the furniture is contemporary yet enriched by occasionally wellproportioned Moorish quotes. Part of the rooms offer views of the Mosque since they overlook the creek.

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visit to the Louvre Abu Dhabi A must visit to the new sanc tuar y of contemporar y architec ture designed by the archistar Jean Nouvel. All white, sur rounded by tubs, with the exhibition pavilions over look ing the inner cour t yard concluded by a fantastic and indescr ibable cover that lets the light filter in drawing shadows.

I n shor t, not to be missed, especially for its architec ture. w w w.louvreabudhabi.ae

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ESPA experience ESPA (right) offers 16 treatment rooms with separate relaxation rooms for males and females, as well as waterfalls and hot tubs. We tried the 90-minute Back, Face & Scalp treatment. Focusing on three key points, it is very popular.

It includes a back scrub and a facial which is naturally personalized. We finish invigorated and ready for dinner.

dinner, a difficult choice It is difficult to choose between the Southeast Asian cuisine of Li Jang, The Forge steakhouse or the Lebanese cuisine of Mijana. When in doubt, Giornonotte with its Mediterranean buffet brings everyone together.

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THE RITZ-CARLTON ABU DHABI, GRAND CANAL Abu Dhabi, UAE www.ritzcarlton.com Rooms & Suites 532 Villas 0 - Restaurants 6 Spa yes Children yes

In short

Chain The Ritz-Carlton Affiliation none Activities excursions

A large and varied resort, well located, where you can spend a week without getting bored. A great base to discover Abu Dhabi but also valid for business travelers. ESPA is definitely a plus.

Score 82 Environment 78 Design 80 Service 80 Cuisine 82 Health 80 Spa 90 Rooms 88

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Emirates Palace Abu Dhabi

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Hasrudin Bin Tazep

Opulent in decorations, all golden. Opulent and tolerant in styles, which are all represented.

Impossible not to notice it and absolutely worth seeing. Difficult to love, but certainly admirable.

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breakfast If you are among those who take a while to wake up, you had better have breakfast in your room.

Otherwise, you can expect to walk a kilometer along gelid corridors before reaching the restaurant. On the way, marble, palms (real and fake), capitals, mosaics, tapestries and crystal alternate along a esoteric route that takes the common mortal toward the Olympic opulence of the Emirates.

descovering the garden The complex is immersed in an 85-hectare palm garden and has over a kilometer of private beach available to guests. The main entrance is in line with the arrival boulevard, which passes under the triumphal arch reserved for state guests and goes directly to the Palace. The other guests walk along the avenue in the garden.

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Emirates Palace Abu Dhabi

day five

returne to the suite The Emirates Palace rises above the sea and most of the rooms overlook the beach.

From some the view sweeps over the city while others overlook the new Marina, always very well frequented by exclusive yachts.

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at the Emirates Palace Spa 1500 square meters of pleasure, relaxation and style. Its traditional Moroccan hammam, the ice cave, the two Turkish baths, the profusion of marble and precious woods make it a place where Mediterranean and Middle Eastern traditions meet and create harmony.

Arabic or Italian for dinner?

We tried both Mezlai (top), panArabic restaurant with the best of local tradition enriched by some international contaminations, and Mezzaluna (right), excellent Italian restaurant with burrate and textbook tiramisu (even though latitude and longitude do not help).

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EMIRATES PALACE Abu Dhabi, UAE www.kempinski.com

In short Monumental, opulent and surprising resort (even for those with a trained eye). Great variety of restaurants, equipped garden, two large swimming pools (one dedicated to relaxation and reserved for adults) and an important spa. Not to be missed, if only for a tea-event in the large lobby.

Rooms & Suites 394 Villas 0 - Restaurants 8 Spa yes Children yes Chain Kempinski Affiliation none Activities excursions Score 87 Environment 83 Design 97 Service 82 Cuisine 83 Health 80 Spa 90 Rooms 95

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flying to Sir Bani Yas Island with Seawings Sir Bani Yas Island is an island on the border with Saudi Arabia. It can be reached by land following a convenient highway. You reach a pier where you are received in a lounge reserved for island guests and afterwards a 30-minute ferry ride out to the island.

We opted for a scenic flight with Seawings seaplanes. You are able to see Ferrari World and the Louvre before leaving the city following the coast.

In an instant we land on the island ready for the activities that await us. https://seawings.ae

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Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island

day six

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Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Yamm Resort

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Hasrudin Bin Tazep

An island, three resorts plus a zoo, the ruins of a monastery, a flora transplanted onto a saline and perpetually irrigated terrain. History and nature are told about a land that combines the essence of the Arabian peninsula.

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in villa on the beach Al Yamm is one of the three resor ts on the island. I t consists of only villas, all large and some with plunge pools. The st yle recalls that of local homes, especially for mater ials.

The villas are well spaced, and the beach is absolutely pr ivate.

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The large windows overlook the beach.

A mangrove lagoon isolates the beach from the other resorts ensuring plenty of privacy. The silence is barely interrupted by the gentle sea breeze that slides through the branches of the rustic roof of the terrace.

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from dawn to dusk to discover the island At dawn the ranger picks us up for an off-road r ide to discover the fauna that populates the reser ve. I t seems to be in an Afr ican par k - never seen anything like it in the Emirates.

On the way back a r ich breakfast awaits us and then a long day.

The archer y lesson follows shor tly af ter wards.

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Shangri-La Tanjung Aru day two

Cultural & History Tour I n the af ter noon the Cultural & H istor y Tour to discover how this island became the favor ite her mitage of the sheik h of Abu Dhabi and how the agreement that sanc tioned the bir th of the Emirates Federation was signed here. Last but not least, we behold the myster y of the foundations of an ancient Chr istian monaster y (above).

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at dinner at Olio After relaxing in the pool until dusk we have dinner at the Italian restaurant Olio. We had already tried it years ago and it had left us with good memories, so we are up for it again. We start with a spelt salad (left) topped with an excellent extra virgin olive oil and then continue with the delicious Tagliolini with scampi (right) with fresh basil and cherry tomato. The presentation is “rustic� like the place, but the taste is intense and balanced. To conclude this healthy and satisfying journey, the traditional Tiramisu. Olio is confirmed as an excellent Italian restaurant whose quality has remained constant over the years. Excellent wine list, obviously mostly Italian.

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In short A resort-experience. The three resorts are well diversified: on the beach in the suites, on the beach in villas, in the bush in the lodge. The activities list creates the destination, involving adults and children of all ages. The culinary offer is excellent and varied despite the region being remote.

ANANTARA SIR BANI YAS ISLAND AL YAMM VILLA RESORT Abu Dhabi, UAE www.anantara.com Rooms & Suites 0 Villas 30 - Restaurants 1 Spa yes Children yes Chain Anantara Affiliation none Activities excursions Score 82 Environment 87 Design 83 Service 80 Cuisine 82 Health 80 Spa 79 Rooms 81

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departure for Dubai and the Emerald Palace Kempinski After breakfast we take again the Seawings seaplane that will take us to Dubai. Approximately 80 minutes of scenic flight over the coast. We start from the pier of Sir Bani Yas Island and land at the Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club after a quick city tour. Practically a flight ... door-to-door.

Dubai Signature Tour While we’re at the Creek we take the opportunity to see Dubai better from above and embark on a 45-minute Dubai Signature Tour over the city.

The most selected tour for its excellent price / quality ratio.

The company’s cessnas are particularly comfortable as well as safe. We pass over Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, The World Islands (right), Burj Al Arab. Dubai from above reveals itself for what it is: a fascinating world between the sea and the desert.

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Emerald Palace Kempinski

day seven

Seawings Tourist flights, charters, business solutions, these are the services offered by the young company founded in 2007 and unique in the UAE. The fleet consists of five modern and agile Cessna 208s, whose versatility is their strong point. http://seawings.ae

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Emerald Palace Kempinski Dubai

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Hasrudin Bin Tazep

A precious case covered with gilding, mirrors and crystals. Halfway between baroque and neoclassical, from the atrium to the ballroom a dazzling glint accompanies guests, flooding them with light.

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finally in our suite Af ter admir ing the Jumeirah Palm from the S eawings seaplane, now the roads finally reaches the Crescent West where this large complex managed by Kempinsk i stands, composed of the residences and the resor t. The lobby, here called Atr ium, is sur pr ising, not huge but spar k ling like few others. I n the center stands the famous chandelier with 40,000 Swarovsk i cr ystals and 300 lamps.

I talian manufac ture, French st yle and estimated cost of three million euros.

Once in the suite, instead, it is the view that dominates.

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BlĂźthner Hall The BlĂźthner Supreme Edition Louis XIV white and gold (real) grand piano gives the hall its name. Personalized upon the request of the property, this unusual and precious piano beautifully characterizes the room where afternoon tea is served.

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ascent to the Burj Khalifa Still for a while it will be the tallest building in the world (828 m). The records are too numerous to count: “At the Top, Burj Khalifa SKY” (555 m, Level 148), for example, is the world’s tallest terrace observatory; Level 160 is the highest level in the world to be occupied, and so on.

Different types of tickets are sold. With “At the Top Sky” you skip the queue; you are accompanied, and you enter the lounge presented in these pages. This means that you can take the best photos in peace. www.burjkhalifa.ae

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Emerald Palace Kempinski

day eight

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dinner at miX by Alain Ducasse With curiosity we try the first restaurant of the renowned chef in the Emirates. It is also the largest in his chain. It rises on three floors, up to the exclusive and almost unreachable chef’s table under the dome (photo above). The cuisine is contemporary French and the menu changes according to the seasonality of the products. Interesting dinner, presentation of dishes made at the table, service ok. The overall experience didn’t surprise us.

The experience is much better at All’Onda (right), a partnership operation with chef Chris Jaeckle. It is less pretentious, has sharper flavors and recognizable ingredients.

Good Italian cuisine - just slightly revisited with skill.

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In breve A resort that combines the Middle Eastern concept of extreme luxury to the nth power. An amazing composition of lights, red velvet, gold and mirrors that envelops and captivates, enriched by a remarkable culinary offer. On the roof the large terrace is a very glamorous setting to see and be seen. Beautiful Cinq Mondes spa (on this page).

EMERALD PALACE KEMPINSKI DUBAI Dubai, UAE www.kempinski.com Rooms & Suites 391 Villas 10 - Restaurants 8 Spa yes Children yes Chain Kempinski Affiliation none Activities excursions Score 84 Environment 83 Design 90 Service 78 Cuisine 85 Health 80 Spa 88 Rooms 87

Cinq Mondes Spa This beautiful and spacious spa with 23 treatment rooms extends over 3000 square meters. There are also two separate hammams for males and females with decorations inspired by the culture of the Arabian peninsula.

The menu created by Cinq Mondes gathers the best beauty rituals from various continents, favoring natural ingredients. The therapists are prepared, and the atmosphere ensures a wonderful relaxing experience.

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Longevity

Th e Lo ng evit y p ro to co l co mp l etes th e regen eration p roce s s of t h e b o dy w it h a ser ies o f specific n utraceuticals su i t a b l e for t h e reg enerat io n o f b o dy, sk in , n ails an d h air, an d fo r t h e m u l t i f unc t io nal resto rat io n o f t h e en ergy n eeded to m a k e u s fe e l b et ter.

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Elsa Bozzaotra

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These treatment produc ts are based on plant stem cell s.

Suit ab le for all t y pes of sk in an d any age. Th ey accelerate d t he division an d proliferation of n ew cells of th e epider m i s in o rde r to repair it af ter damaged suffered. Th ey prevent p remature agein g, combat th e for mation of free radic al s, make t h e sk in fir m an d reduce sk in dr y n ess. Th e sk in becom e s mo re hydrated, fir mer an d h ealth ier.

Lifest y le pollution an d stress alter th e n atural hydrolip i d fil m o f th e epider mis.

I n t his ph ase of th e Lon gevit y protocol, treatments based o n nucl eotides an d stem cells h ave been devised. N uc leic acid s increase cellular growth rates an d in c rease sk in hydration .

Lo ng evit y ÂŽ! offer s th e on ly str uc tured n utr ition integratio n and b eaut y program dedicated to mak in g n ot on ly th e bod y b u t al s o th e min d feel better, maintain in g a better qualit y of l ife fo r lon ger.

C hal l en ge premature agein g with th e Lon gevit y ÂŽ lin e!

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