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EDITORIAL

Ovidio Guaita, International Editor-in-Chief

re you looking for a flight and using your iPhone? And what’s more, during office hours? Well, it is very likely that the rate you are shown is higher than the one shown to those who do the same search on the weekend, from any low-income rural area, using an Android system or a desktop computer.

This is all due to the algorithm of booking systems that runs across a myriad of data from the device we use to go online and from the so-called “big data”, large databases that collect any information about our browsing, purchases, requests on Google and so on. Starting from our geolocation, analyzing how we go online and when, running into the history of previous requests and other data available online, the booking system estimates our spending capacity and calculates the maximum amount we are willing to pay.

In the end everyone has their own price. This could also be a democratic system if it were ... enlightened; however, we know that, even though artificial intelligence is more and more amazing, it is not yet exactly enlightened. Hence it is worth trying to install a vpn to simulate the search from a third world country with a weak currency and occasionally peek at sites like cheapflightslab.com and flynous.com, which report the “oversights” of the companies and their computer brains, which offer flights at prices that are incredibly low.

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CONTENTS

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TOP 10 service resorts

36

GRAND HOTEL DU LAC Vevey, Switzerland

40

THE PURIST VILLAS & SPA Bali, Indonesia

42

KAYUMANIS NUSA DUA Bali, Indonesia

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Battello Italie, Vevey

THE MULIA Bali, Indonesia

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GRAND HOTEL BILIA Saint-Vincent, Italia

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HOTEL BELLEVUE Losinj, Croatia

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RELAIS SAN LORENZO Bergamo, Italia

56

RISTORANTE TOSCA Castello di Casole, Chianti, Italia

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FAIRMONT DUBAI Dubai, UAE

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THE JAHAN Siem Reap-Ho Chi Minh City

CONTENTS

The Jahan, Siem-Reap-Ho Chi Minh City

Central America

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XBALANQUE RESORT Roatan, Honduras

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VICTORIA HOUSE San Pedro, Belize

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EL SECRETO San Pedro, Belize

CONTENTS

Lake & Hills of Como

84 88

GRAND HOTEL TREMEZZO Tremezzo, Como

TENUTA DE L’ANNUNZIATA Uggiate Trevano, Como

Tenuta de l’Annunziata, Uggiate Trevano

Paris

100

LE NARCISSE BLANC Paris

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SHANGRI-LA HOTEL, PARIS Paris

CONTENTS

Addis Ababa

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Shangri-la Hotel, Paris

RADISSON BLU Addis Ababa

RM

lifeStyle

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HOTEL LOGGIATO DEI SERVITI Firenze, Italia

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CANON EOS 760D

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CBN Cosmetique Bio Naturelle

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DE’LONGHI PrimaDonna Elite

CONTENTS

140 144

Loggiato dei Serviti, Firenze

VIDEO PRODUCTION Borgo San Lorenzo, Firenze

IURI NICCOLAI Photographe, Firenze

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

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.

HOTEL COLONIALI

2014

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.

PP

Places to Stay in Florence & Nearby

HOTEL COLONIALI

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

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

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Top 100 P l aces t o St ay i n

F l or en ce Four Seasons Hotel Firenze

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and nearb y PalidanoPress

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

XIII, n. 81 2017

International Editor-in-Chief Ovidio Guaita Senior Editor Lawrence Taylor Contributors Elsa Bozzaotra, Maria Coscarelli, Paola Di Girolamo, Marco Galli, Paolo Gerbaldo, Alessandra Jovinelli, Daniela Komisarjevsky Libero, Pamela McCourt Francescone, Hasrudin Tazep, Luca Frassi, Riccardo Casano Translations Lawrence Taylor and Agnese Frullatori Photos Ovidio Guaita, Lawrence Taylor, Paolo Gerbaldo, Hasrudin Tazep and published hotels and resorts Video for iPad and iPhone app Roberto Sessoli Graphic Design 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) © 2018 Palidano LLC ISSN 2043-6629 www.resorts.it

Cover: Tenuta de l’Annunziata, Como (Italia).

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

LAWRENCE TAYLOR In the Ville Lumière for a classic city hotel and a new boutique, decentralized but charming.

OVIDIO GUAITA In the hills outside Como for a resort in the woods near the lake.

ELSA BOZZAOTRA When service makes the difference. Here are the best 10, where everything is perfect … or almost.

PAMELA MCCOURT FRANCESCONE On a boat between Siem Reap and Ho Chi Minh City, amid nature, art and history.

PAOLO GERBALDO From Switzerland to the Valle d’Aosta to Croatia including Addis Ababa. These are the destinations presented by Paolo.

RICCARDO CASANO Riccardo went to Bergamo for an urban resort designed by Adolfo Natalini where one eats “among the ruins”.

MARIA COSCARELLI In Dubai for a dinner in the dark. Then in Bali among the rice fields and finally on the Central American beaches. This is Maria’s world.

Paris France

Vevey Switzerland

Saint-Vincent Italia

Lake Como

Chianti

Italia

Italia

San Pedro Belize

Roatan Honduras

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our destinations Bergamo Italia

Losinj Croatia

The Jahan Cambodia-Vietnam

Bali Indonesia

Dubai UAE

Addis Ababa Ethiopia

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Saint Petersburg Hainan Zanzibar Zurich Cannes Catania Siem Reap Botswana

Manila Oman Spalato Porto Montenegro Tirana Sofia Belgrade Zagreb Skopje Cap-Ferrat Masai Mara

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Luzern Venezia Lisbon Masai Mara Selous Onguma Chianti Cusco

Ol Seki Hemingways Mara Camp, Kenya

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InterContinental Carlton, Cannes

TOP 10 | SERVICE RESORTS

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Elsa Bozzaotra

Top

10 service resorts to each the service of his choice

1. The Peninsula Hong Kong 2. Burj Al Arab 3. Four Seasons Resorts Bali at Jimbaran Bay 4. Four Seasons Resort at Landaa Giraavaru 5. Raffles Hotel Singapore 6. Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan 7. Badrutt’s Palace 8. Four Seasons Resort Langkawi 9. Amansara 10.Taj Exotica Resort and Spa Maldives

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TOP 10 | SERVICE RESORTS

I

t is at the Peninsula Hong Kong that the guests are best treated. The Burj Al Arab in Dubai follows and then the Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay. Places where attention multiplies - discreet, amazing, beyond expectations. Places where the staff anticipates the needs of the guest. Places where you would always return to feel at home.

Architects sometimes manage to build magical places, interact with nature and turn out enchanting environments that guest dream of entering.

Frequently, when faced with such powerful designs, a stay is not enhanced with service which is up to par. We all realize how difficult it is to maintain high standards for clients. Hence, we have compiled this ranking. To each the service of his choice.

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Top 100 Resorts Worldwide

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

One&Only Maldives at Reethi Rah Four Seasons Resort at Landaa Giraavaru Four Seasons Resort Langkawi The Estates at Pangkor Laut Taj Umaid Bhawan Palace Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay Shangri-la's Villingili Resort & Spa, Maldives FrĂŠgate Island Private Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan Amanjiwo Four Seasons Resort at Kuda Huraa

12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47

Taj Exotica Resort and Spa, Maldives Grand Resort Bad Ragaz Verdura Golf & Spa Resort Ananda in the Himalayas Amanusa Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai Il Salviatino Bulgari Resort, Bali Al Areen Palace & Spa Taj Lake Palace The Oberoi Rajvilas Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle Amanbagh Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge Parrot Cay Banyan Tree Phuket The Legian The Chedi Chiang Mai Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora Amandari The Chedi Muscat Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita Cheval Blanc The Fortress Galle Banyan Tree Seychelles Alila Villas Uluwatu Four Seasons Seychelles The Oberoi Sahl Hasheesh Beau-Rivage Palace Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa Palazzo Sasso The Oberoi Udaivilas The Oberoi Cecil Hotel Splendido The Empire Hotel & Country Club Amanpuri

48 49 50

Le Prince Maurice Singita Sweni Lodge Cuisinart Golf Resort & Spa

51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 100

Amanwana Amansara Como Shambhala Estate, Bali Shanti Maurice One&Only Royal Mirage, The Residence Anassa Conrad Maldives Rangali Island Reid's Palace Amanpulo Grande Roche Kurland Country Hotel One&Only Ocean Club Aman-i-Khas Amankora Suvretta House Madinat Jumeirah Amanwella Grand Hotel du Cap Ferrat Four Seasons Resort Nevis Singita Lebombo Lodge The Nam Hai The Residence Zanzibar Sandy Lane Blancaneaux Shangri-la's Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa Amankila Banyan Tree Lijiang Blue Palace Resort & Spa One&Only The Palm Amanyara The Residence Tunis Shangri-la's Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa Hotel Finca Cortesin Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc Le Touessrok Soneva Fushi The Tides Riviera Maya Wharekauhau Country Estate Muse Banyan Tree Ringha Villa San Michele Fuchun Resort Kiaroa Bora Bora Lagoon Resort and Spa Six Senses Ninh Van Bay MesaStila Banyan Tree Sanya Palazzo Versace K Club InterContinental Carlton Cannes

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A LAKE HOTEL | VEVEY

Grand Hotel du Lac Vevey

place that offers a very special hospitality is the Swiss Grand Hôtel du Lac, capable of reflecting all the charm of Vevey. This famous resort overlooks Lake Geneva. Dating back to 1868, the Grand Hôtel bears witness to its bond with the past through its authentic distinction, expertly blended with modernity, efficient and discreet service and attention to detail.

The equilibrium of the interiors reconstructed by Pierre-Yves Rochon recreates for the guest an intimate, family place that superbly recalls the intense history of the Grand Hôtel without forgetting original touches such as the intense oriental room.

The classic furnishings combine with the intimacy of the rooms and suites.

The enchantment conveyed by the lake’s landscape intersect so pleasantly with the delicacy and quality of the welcome given to those who stop off at Du Lac. The tasty influences of French and Mediterranean cuisine alongside traditional local dishes, where Lake fish stands out, delight guests in the chic La Véranda brasserie. Starred chef Thomas Neeser models, instead, the menu of the gastronomic restaurant Les Saisons, a refined corner dedicated to the subtle flavors of haute cuisine.

A sensorial experience of quality is offered by the Dr Burgener Spa, with its combination of luxury and beauty.

Without ostentation, the Grand Hôtel du Lac involves its guests in an elegant emotional universe that speaks the language of refined comfort and great hospitality.

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Paolo Gerbaldo

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LAKE HOTEL | VEVEY

Belle Époque emotions on Lake Geneva Far from the rhythms modulated by speed, the cruises on Lake Geneva aboard the Belle Époque boats of CGN (www.cgn.ch) are a radically different way to discover the many pearls scattered on the shores of the Lake. The eight vessels of the Belle Époque fleet are, in fact, able to surprise with their original touch, so full of charm. For our cruise from Vevey we tried the “Italie”.

Launched in 1908, the boat was completely renovated between 2015 and 2016. On board the elegance of the dining room is the context for the excellent service it offers during lunch. A thematic menu is dedicated to each boat. In our case, a small corner of Italy takes shape, thanks to universally renowned dishes proposed while the “Italie” gently plows the waters of Lake Geneva.

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INFO HOTEL

GRAND HOTEL DU LAC Vevey, Switzerland www.hoteldulac-vevey.ch Rooms & Suites 50 Villas 0 - Restaurants 2 Spa yes Children yes Chain none Affiliation R&C Activities excursions Score 84 Environment 85 Design 85 Service 80 Cuisine 90 Health 76 Spa 80 Rooms 90

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COUNTRYSIDE RESORT | UBUD

S

The Purist Villas & Spa

Ubud

miles, silence, pristine vegetation. The Purist is a corner outside time, where the beautiful smile of Soim, the driver awaiting us at the airport, welcomes us Immersed in spectacular greenery with an unmistakable atmosphere, Bali is a dream that becomes reality. The transfer to The Purist is pleasant and includes every comfort. We begin to discover this enchanted island, the only Hindu island in a Muslim archipelago. The temples are numerous, and all invite us to enter. But the place that welcomes us with wide open doors is reached after almost two hours by car and is called The Purist. It is not so much a temple as it is a mystical resort.

Among the thirteen villas we are hosted in is the Joglo. Yvonne Hulst and Alberto Cortés have realized their dream here: to create a hospitality structure harmoniously linked to Ubud, the cultural capital of Bali, where guests can live and breathe the spirit and traditions of the island. Here every detail bears witness to the history of Bali, also called “The Island of the Gods”.

The scent of frangipanis is in every corner. It is a perfect mélange of nature and culture.

The Purist is an intimate place, where you can relax with yoga classes or be embraced and cuddled by the vegetation, where you can revitalize your spirit. Here you can hear the sound of silence - the silence with which the sun rises every morning, warming the incredible vegetation only to disappear at the infinite sunsets.

Everything with a smile.

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Maria Coscarelli

INFO HOTEL

THE PURIST VILLAS & SPA Ubud, Bali www.thepuristvillas.com Rooms & Suites 0 Villas 17 - Restaurants 1 Spa yes Children yes Chain none Affiliation none Activities excursions and spa Score 75 Environment 80 Design 83 Service 75 Cuisine 82 Health 60 Spa 70 Rooms 78

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SEASIDE RESORT | NUSA DUA

Kayumanis Nusa Dua

T Nusa Dua

he realm of privacy, nature and authenticity.

Keeping us company is the noise of our steps and chattering squirrels that watch us from the lush vegetation that surrounds the spacious villas of the property. Spacious, with all the comforts international guests could wish for.

The Kayumanis Nusa Dua is a world apart which is difficult to leave. It affords guests well-organized spaces, tasteful furnishings, design, technology. But above all it affords a relaxed atmosphere in which one forgets the passing of time.

On the large patio of our villa it is pleasant to laze after having enjoyed the warm waters of the ocean or after a swim in the pool amid the scent of frangipanis. However, the real jewel of this silent Resort is the Kayumanis Spa. A true sanctuary for relaxation. The treatment program is inspired by the ancient local culture and reflects the idea of unity obtained through the eternal duality between relaxation and regeneration. The essential oils and the products used by the expert masseuses are extracted from the purest and uncontaminated ingredients of nature. Among all the experiences offered is the Bali Boreh, which literally means “bring the body back to life�. It is an ancient body revival that uses herbs and spices which for centuries have been used by workers in the rice fields. Today the same principles relieve the stress of contemporary travelers.

The Kayumanis is an ideal microcosm dominated by smiles and kindness.

It is the ideal place for the guest who wants to spend a stay far away from everything and everyone.

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Maria Coscarelli

INFO HOTEL

KAYUMANIS NUSA DUA Nusa Dua, Bali www.kayumanis.com Rooms & Suites 0 Villas 20 - Restaurants 2 Spa yes Children no Chain Kayumanis Affiliation none Activities excursions, beach activities and spa Score 78 Environment 90 Design 80 Service 85 Cuisine 82 Health 57 Spa 78 Rooms 75

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SEASIDE RESORT | NUSA DUA

The Mulia

T Nusa Dua

he Mulia Resort is elegance, modernity and luxury.

Enchanting, nestled in the lush greenery of Bali. An evocative and creative design for a Resort that surprises for its large and well-kept spaces, the transparency between inside and outside, its innovative materials. In every corner a refined mood, a sophisticated exuberance with lively and original accents. All the spaces are embellished with refined details and Balinese antiques.

The Mulia is the ideal refuge for an experience of great spirituality.

Sunrise and sunset are the ideal moments to tune your body and mind with yoga classes. Adnyana, a yoga teacher, accompanies us, who, like all Balinese, is to be remembered for her delightful kindness. Bali is the kingdom of this ancient discipline. Practicing it before its crystal-clear waters is to enjoy the purity and culture of this island kissed by gods and the ocean. It means making all the beauty of its landscapes one’s own.

In this resort, where everything is possible, afternoon tea is another unmissable moment. From the terrace, enjoying a 360 ° view over the warm waters of the Pacific Ocean, elegance and service are always impeccable and the Mango Cake is special. We experience it hoping to never finish.

Personalized luxury in the largest archipelago in the world, a corner of elegance and modernity called The Mulia.

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Maria Coscarelli

INFO HOTEL

THE MULIA Nusa Dua, Bali www.the mulia.com Rooms & Suites 111 Villas 0 - Restaurants 4 Spa yes Children yes Chain Mulia Affiliation none Activities excursions, beach, spa and golf Score 83 Environment 98 Design 94 Service 83 Cuisine 86 Health 78 Spa 67 Rooms 73

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HISTORIC HOTEL | SAINT-VINCENT

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Grand Hotel Bilia

Saint-Vincent

hat the Grand Hôtel Billia offers guests is a meeting with history that takes place in a chic and modern treasure chest.

The Grand Hôtel is the heart of the hospitality of the leisure universe created by the Saint Vincent Resort Casino: the Valle d’Aosta complex including the Casino de la Vallée, the Congress Center and the Park Hotel.

Built with an elegant and imposing style in 1908 by the entrepreneur Stefano Billia, the Grand Hôtel has undergone careful renovation work, overseen by architect Piero Lissoni, who deftly confirmed tradition while combining it with the notes of a modern and soberly elegant. décor. The extensive intervention, in fact, allowed for the enhancement of the existing architectural heritage immersed in a century-old park, harmonizing local elements with those linked to distant worlds. The spacious rooms offer a beautiful view of the Western Alps surrounding the Billia.

The restaurants 1908 and the gourmet La Grande Vue both offer an original cuisine careful to enhance Mediterranean flavors without forgetting the terroir. A place where the desire to care for oneself becomes reality is the large wellness center, L’Eve, conceived paying great attention to bring it into harmony with the mountains. Nothing is missing in this relaxing environment, where guests can carve out an intimate parenthesis.

Completely rethought out, the Grand Hôtel Billia has rediscovered its place among the charming addresses able to best enhance their intense history.

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INFO HOTEL

GRAND HOTEL BILIA Saint-Vincent, Italia www.saintvincentresort.it Rooms & Suites 69 Villas 0 - Restaurants 2 Spa yes Children yes Chain none Affiliation LHW Activities excursions Score 82 Environment 88 Design 80 Service 75 Cuisine 80 Health 81 Spa 85 Rooms 85

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SEASIDE RESORT | LOSINJ

Hotel Bellevue Losinj

N

est l ed in a mar in e pin e forest ju s t a fe w s tep s fro m t he Adr iat ic S ea, Hotel B ellevue is a de m on s t rat i on o f st yl e u nder t he infl uen ce of moder n design an d at te nt i on to ever y det ail.

I n t h e c h a r ming Čik at Bay, t he H o tel welcomes guests with a re la x i n g at m o sp here sup er b l y amp l ified by th e peace foun d o n t h e Croat i an isl and o f Lo šinj. The beautiful destin ation o f Croat i a , n e st l ed in t he archip el ag o o f th e Gulf of Kvar n er, b e t we e n t h e Ist r ian p eninsu l a and nor th er n Dalmatia, is k n own a s a n i s l and o f vit al it y and heal t h.

An e n c h a nt i ng view unfo l ds in fro nt o f th e guests’ eyes from th e room s a n d su ites, fur nished w it h shades th at match th e m a gn i f i ce n ce o f t he p l ace.

As for t h e p l easu res o f t he t ab l e, t he t astin g path proposed by t h e Pi n & O il menu is dedicated to t he delic ac ies of Istr ian an d I t a l i a n c uisine. I n t he Bava rest au rant th e tradition of l o c a l p rod u c t s is co mb ined w it h t he mo der n it y of th e touc h re q u i re d by a n inter nat io nal scene.

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Paolo Gerbaldo

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SEASIDE RESORT | LOSINJ

To re la x i n co mfo r t, a sto p at t he Sp a Clin ic is essential.

Th e i n i t i ator y p at h o ffers an exp er ience th at invites evasion wi t h ou t n e gl ec t ing medical and reg en eratin g aspec ts. I t s h ou l d n ot b e fo rg o t ten t hat, since 1892 , due to its climate, Lo š i n j h a s b e e n k now n as an el eg ant cl imatic resor t frequented by t h e Au s t ro - Hu ng ar ian ar isto crac y.

H e n ce t h e l uxu r io us H o tel B el l evu e super bly plays th e card o f com p l e te comfo r t to make yo ur st ay u nforgettable, en j oy in g th e n at u ra l b e a ut ies and cul t ural st imul i of th e islan d of Lošin j.

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INFO HOTEL

HOTEL BELLEVUE Losinj, Cratia www.bellevuelosinj.com Rooms & Suites 185 Villas 0 - Restaurants 2 Spa yes Children yes Chain Losinj Hotels Affiliation none Activities sea activities Score 78 Environment 83 Design 80 Service 73 Cuisine 75 Health 79 Spa 75 Rooms 80

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DESIGN HOTEL | BERGAMO

Relais San Lorenzo Bergamo

B

orn from a project of the famous architect Adolfo Natalini, Relais San Lorenzo is a jewel nestled in the suggestive Bergamo Alta and is the only 5star relais in the Lombard Town. It’s design, modern but never intrusive, is per fectly integrated with the historical heritage of the town, in a refined continuum between ancient and modern, in a charming framework of Medieval buildings.

Various shades of brown and cream create a warm atmosphere, which envelops guests in a comfortable and relaxing environment.

The precious essences of Afromosia wood are the recurring theme of the furniture, next to design elements and wide windows.

The 30 rooms, furnished with prestigious architectural details, overlook the quiet inner cloister and offer a refuge in the heart of the city.

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Riccardo Casano

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DESIGN HOTEL | BERGAMO

Dining at the Hostaria, the renowned restaurant mastered by chef Antonio Cuomo, is a sublime experience. The unique setting, among Roman and Medieval ruins together with an extremely refined menu, allow the guest to explore delicate flavors in a gourmet journey enhanced by fine wines. Many specialties, from the typical dishes of Bergamo to fresh fish, all ser ved with aromatic notes of seasonal herbs, emphasize the most hidden shades of taste.

The guests of Relais San Lorenzo can enjoy a relaxing break at the San Lorenzo SPA, an intimate and cozy environment, dedicated to complete relaxation, which offers various treatments with essential oils.

Leaving the hotel for a walk around the town, getting lost in its ancient streets, then coming back for a delicious drink on the terrace while admiring the surrounding landscape is worth the stay at Relais San Lorenzo.

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INFO HOTEL

RELAIS SAN LORENZO Bergamo, Italia www.relaisanlorenzo.com Rooms & Suites 58 Villas 0 - Restaurants 1 Spa yes Children yes Chain none Affiliation SLH Activities excursions, sightseeing Score 76 Environment 65 Design 88 Service 70 Cuisine 86 Health 60 Spa 73 Rooms 87

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TOP RESTAURANT | CHIANTI

Ristorante Tosca

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Castello di Casole, Chianti

hen histo r y me ets taste. A castle exce l l e nt ly p o sit io ned o n t he to p o f a h ill, wh ere th e eye s we e p s ove r t he sur ro unding val l eys w hile th e scent of th e c u i s i n e le a d s to t he To sca R est au rant. Pure I talian tradition : hom e m a d e p a st a, l o cal meat s, veg et ables from th e castle g a rd e n a l l s e a so ned w it h t he est ate’s ex tra virgin olive oil an d - i f d e s i re d - acco mp anied by t he C h ianti Classico - also p rod u ce d “at h o me”.

We s t a r te d w it h S al ami Fracassi and ch eese from th e Pa u gn a n o f a r m w it h jam and to mato b ru sch ette, S en ese c inta s a u s a g e a n d b l ack t ru ffl es. As a first co ur se, th e vialon e n an o R is ot to wi t h s c al l o p s, vanil l a candied cit r us fr uits an d fen n el am a ze d u s for it s del icac y. Fo r t he seco nd cour se, th e ch oice fe ll on t h e Fi l e tto To sca, w it h fo is gras, b l a c k tr uffles, c ream of p ot atoe s a n d “C ” red w ine sauce. To finish, th e lemon an d evo o il c a k e, i n comp o te, l emo n cu rd and so f t but c r isp mer in gue.

An ex p e r i e n ce to rep eat, and to al so t r y th e oth er proposals o f t h i s i nte re s t ing menu. The excel l ent an d disc reet ser vice wou l d b e ye t ano t her reaso n to ret ur n.

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INFO

RISTORANTE TOSCA Castello di Casole Chianti, Italia www.castellodicasole.com

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CITY HOTEL | DUBAI

Fairmont Dubai Dubai

I

t looks like a blind tasting, but it is not. Nor is it an action movie. We’re at the Noir and the waiters move around in the dark while they serve us a dinner in the ... dark. They wear nighttime goggles like those of soldiers and they surprise us. Aromas and flavors. No longer distracted by our vision, we, in fact, concentrate and enhance our other senses. Whether seen as a romantic or experimental dinner, it is certainly unusual and intriguing. It is no coincidence that the restaurant was nominated the Best Experimental Restaurant in the Middle East by the BBC Good Food Awards.

This is not the only entertaining extravaganza at Nero. Take for example the Cavalli Club Restaurant & Lounge, created by the Italian designer, who is much loved at these latitudes (perhaps, even more than in Italy). The spaces are surmounted by amazing chandeliers made up of over 356,000 Swarovski crystals. The important thing is not to exaggerate. If you do, do it ... big time. The cuisine is obviously Italian and, needless to say, excellent.

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CITY HOTEL | DUBAI

Another experience is the Spa. 3,700 square meters divided for males and females, as local use requires. Between saunas, jacuzzis and Turkish baths, we find the treatment rooms. Among the offerings, The Facial Treatment is an experience that even the most demanding guest will not forget. The spacious gym is situated in a common area available to both men and women.

The waiters with night-time goggles take us to the exit where we find the light. Just in time for the show at Cirque Le Soir. From Mayfair to Dubai (and now in Shanghai), the circus atmosphere transports us back to our childhood.

This Fairmont was the first in the chain to rise in the Emirates. It is not brand new, but it looks like a fine business hotel. A covered bridge connects it to the Dubai World Trade Center. With a 10-minute drive (or by metro) guest can reach Burj Khalifa and the huge Dubai Mall for a shopping overdose.

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INFO HOTEL

FAIRMONT DUBAI Dubai, UAE www.fairmont.com Rooms & Suites 394 Villas 0 - Restaurants 5 Spa yes Children yes Chain Fairmont Affiliation none Activities sightseeing Score Environment Design Service Cuisine Health Spa Rooms

83 60 89 86 88 83 91 85

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TOP CRUISE | THE JAHAN

The Jahan from Siem Reap to Ho Chi Minh City

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he J ahan, named for th e M ugh al E m p e ror S h a h J ahan w ho b u il t t he magnificent Taj M ah al, is s t ron g l y i n f l u e nced by I ndia and t he her itage of th e Br itish R a j. Th e 2 6 s t atero o ms and su ites have sumptuous colour s an d f a b r i c s, h a nd-p ainted fl o ral t racer y on pastel walls an d ce i l i n g s, g l owi n g wo o den fl o o rs and co l on ial fur n ish in gs.

I n t h e S u p e r io r and D el uxe St atero o ms th ere are n ight an d day a re a s, t h e lat ter w it h a so fa and vanit y cor n er an d ceilin gto - f l oor wi n d ows t hat sl ide o p en o nto th e balcony with t wo com for t a b l e chairs. The fo u r Signature S uites are more s p a c i ou s, a n d t he Lo rd B yro n and Taj No b le S uites h ave din in g ta b l e s, s of a s, a nd b al co nies w it h J acuzzis.

Th e r hyt h m of t he days o n b o ard b al ances visits to r iver side town s a n d vi l l ag es and t he ho u rs o f navigation spent relaxin g i n t h e E a s t I n d ia C l u b o r o n t he su n b eds a roun d th e M ekon g’s l a rge s t p ool on t he Po o l D eck . Bu ffet b re ak fasts an d lun ch es

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TOP CRUISE | THE JAHAN

a n d e le ga nt dinners are ser ved in t he Viceroy Din in g Hall, d e l i g ht i n g g u e st s w it h a sel ec t io n o f Asian an d inter n ation al sp e c i a lt i e s.

I n t h e Ca m bo dian cap it al, Phno m Pen h , guests step bac k i nto t h e cou nt r y ’s t ragic p ast w it h vis its to Ch oeun g E k , t h e K h m e r R oug e ex ter minat io n camp, an d th e Tuol S len g G e n oc i d e M u seu m, t he infamo u s S -21 pr ison . Lun c h is in C h e f Lu u M e n g’s M al is rest aurant, a tem ple of contemporar y Ca m b od i a n c u isine, and in t he af ter no o n, th ere are visits to t h e N at i on a l M useu m, t he R oyal Pal ace and th e S ilver Pagoda.

H avi n g c ros s ed t he Viet namese b o rd er, Th e Jah an sails t h rou g h t h e M eko ng del t a, p assing fl oatin g mar k ets an d stop p i n g at i s lands and vil l ag es w here ar t isan s craf t tradition al rat t a n m at s, weave sil k o n handl o o ms a n d produce th e r ice p a p e r wra p p e rs used fo r nem sp r ing rolls. I n M y Th o, n ot fa r f rom H o Chi M inh Cit y, g uest s t ake l e ave of th e staff, th e you n g, s m i li n g and p ro fessio nal Camb o d ian s an d Vietn amese w h o h ave l ooked af ter t hem o n t heir th ousan d-k ilometre M e k on g j ou r n ey.

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INFO HOTEL

THE JAHAN Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam www.heritage-lines.com

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DESTINATION | CENTRAL AMERICA

text Maria Coscarelli photos and drone shooting Roberto Sessoli

CENTRAL

Turquoise waters, golden beaches, tropical vegetation but also ancient ruins.

Innovative cuisine and lots of wellbeing. This and much more in Central America today.

AMERICA

DESTINATION | CENTRAL AMERICA

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DESTINATION | CENTRAL AMERICA

Xbalanque Resort Roatan

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o cated on th e islan d of R oat รก n , on e of t he many p ear l s o f t he Car ibbean , Xbalan que i s a p a ra d i s e wh ere su mmer is eter nal. Patsy an d D en n is Brac y - f rom N or t h Caro l ine - have real ized t h eir dream h ere: a co m b i n at i on of l uxu r y, p r ivac y, histo r y, nature, familiar it y an d a u t h e nt i c i t y. Fur t her mo re, t hey dedicate it to all th e guests w h o vi s i t t h e m .

Th i s i s t h e r i g ht co r ner to fo rg et t he no ise of th e wor ld an d fee l t h at you r d reams co me t ru e, fo r t he resor t is a contex t w i t h a u n i q u e s et t ing : war m cr yst al - cl ear water s with sh ades o f b lu e, b e a c h e s o f fine w hite sand, a wo nder ful coral reef an d t hr i vi n g t rop i c al veg et at io n.

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DESTINATION | CENTRAL AMERICA

O u r 1 1 0 - s q u are -meter suite is t he ideal obser vator y of th is wor l d. H a l f of t he wal l o p ens o nto t he sea an d its in c redible col or s. Th e s p acio u s vil l as refl ec t Pat sy ’s love for th e E ast, an d th e y a re e n r i c h ed by mo der n co mfo r t s an d great attention for th e gu e s t, wh o is cuddl ed at any t ime o f th e day.

X b a l a n q u e i s t he p er fec t p l ace to find t h e sen se of R oatán , a s i m p ly i n c re d i b l e isl and. And it is wo r t hwh ile to exper ien ce it.

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INFO HOTEL XBALANQUE BOUTIQUE RESORT Roatan, Honduras www.xbalanque-roatan.com Rooms & Suites 5 Villas 4 - Restaurants 1 Spa no Children yes Chain none Affiliation none Activities sea activities Score 75 Environment 92 Design 81 Service 75 Cuisine 80 Health 63 Spa 72 Rooms 66

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DESTINATION | CENTRAL AMERICA

Victoria House

H

San Pedro

ow do you return to the same Resort for twelve years? A holiday at the Victoria House makes everything possible even growing old in Colorado with the nostalgia of the colorful and unique Winsor Suite. How many stories link their evolution to this incredible Resort.

Here every honeymoon brings back the desire to repeat that fateful “yes” again.

Even Lady Ciccone was fascinated by San Pedro, turning this island into her Isla Bonita.

For here sea and sky unite with a world of shades; the talcum powder that covers the beaches is of a unique whiteness; the palm trees dance in the wind and seem to bow before so much luxury.

It is pleasant to wake up early for a dawn with a thousand bright reds and yellows. Or walk on the beach with the melody of the waves chasing each other. We would like for time to stop, for the smile, the kindness and professionalism of Abi, César, Oni and Carmen and all the staff to exist forever.

This Resort is unique, but the people who work there make it indeed special.

This is the emotion of Victoria House: home forever, even if you live in Colorado.

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Maria Coscarelli

INFO HOTEL

VICTORIA HOUSE San Pedro, Belize www.victoria-house.com Rooms & Suites 50 Villas 6 - Restaurants 1 Spa yes Children yes Chain none Affiliation none Activities sea activities Score 80 Environment 92 Design 84 Service 81 Cuisine 82 Health 66 Spa 80 Rooms 75

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DESTINATION | CENTRAL AMERICA

El Secreto

F

San Pedro

inding yourself alone in front of the infinite spaces of the Caribbean Sea. The Sea, sand, palm trees and ... silence. Since it takes a 30-minute boat trip from San Pedro to reach El Secreto, urban and contemporary noises become a distant memory. When the boat docks, the open-air hall appears, nothing else. Details that exhibit the Spartan luxury in this pleasant resort far from everything.

Silence composed of calm and tranquility, where you can rediscover the pleasure of observing and enjoying the beauty that surrounds us. An ecochic resort where human hands have intervened ever so lightly: everything is built of natural materials, respecting the environment.

The spaces reserved for guests are enchanting, but it is outdoors where they can fully enjoy contact with the surrounding vegetation. The unique aspect of El Secreto is the constant gentle breeze that renders this resort a special place, a place to fall in love with.

At The Secreto one must also appreciate the excellent interpretations of local products such as lobsters that are simply divine - even when only grilled. But a stay is not complete without a Spa experience. To abandon yourself to the expert hands of Audinette means to immerse yourself in a realm of tranquility and pleasure - an extension of that infinite silence that so few resorts can offer nowadays.

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Maria Coscarelli

INFO HOTEL

EL SECRETO San Pedro, Belize www.elsecretobelize.com Rooms & Suites 0 Villas 13 - Restaurants 1 Spa yes Children yes Chain none Affiliation none Activities sea activities Score 72 Environment 85 Design 72 Service 78 Cuisine 80 Health 57 Spa 72 Rooms 63

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DESTINATION | LAKE AND HILLS OF COMO

L A K E

The magic of the Lario reveals itself without compromise on clear spring days. Its waters are the setting - along with the mountains that surround it – for the large villas built on its banks. And among villas and towers we discover excellent traditional and innovative structures.

COMO

DESTINATION | LAKE AND HILLS OF COMO

A m o n g t h e g r ea t v illa s op en f or hospi tal i ty, w e f i nd V i l l a Sol a C a b ia t i in T r emez z o (on th ese pages) managed by t he Grand H o t e l T r e mez z o, th e r en ov a ted gl ory of t he l ake. Ami d t he t ow ers, i n st e a d , t h e T en u ta de l’ A n n unzi ata, an i nnovati ve structure i n t he h ills b e h in d Como, h as ju st appeared.

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DESTINATION | LAKE AND HILLS OF COMO

Grand Hotel Tremezzo Tremezzo

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mo ng t he maj estic “Palaces” that ove r l ook L ake Co mo, t he Grand H o tel Tremez zo stan ds o u t. I t s i m p os i ng façade st ands o ut o n t he ban ks of th e L ar io to d ay a s i t d i d a cent u r y ag o w hen it was built. Th e view of B e l l a gi o h a s re mained t he same enjoyed by th e fir st guests of the B e l l e E p oq ue.

S i n ce t h e n t h ere have b een many innovation s but th e ch ar m ha s re m a i n e d t he same. C l imb ing t he broad stairc ase th at l ea d to t h e e nt rance is an init iat io n r ite th at leads guests i nto a t i m e l e s s dimensio n, an int imate atmosph ere wh ere the y fe e l u n d isp u ted p ro t ag o nist s. The excellent ser vice i m m e d i ate ly m a kes t hem feel at ho me. The h igh lights of th e s tay, f rom b re a kfast to t he evening ap er itif an d din n er, are c are f u ll y s u p e r vised by t he char ming direc tor, ver y sk illful in com p a ny r i t u a l s.

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E xce ll e nt c u isine, b eaut iful g ardens an d th e beautifully i n s e r te d n e w p o o l. Tho se w ho do no t want to miss th e full l a k e vi e w c a n cho o se t he fl o at ing p o o l for a “more immer sive” ex p e r i e n ce.

Th e G ra n d H otel Tremezzo remains o ne of th e most prec ious d e s t i n at i on s on Lake Co mo, an indisp ensable destin ation for th os e wh o wa nt to co mb ine co ntemp o rar y excellen ce with v int a ge e m ot i ons.

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INFO HOTEL GRAND HOTEL TREMEZZO Tremezzo, Italia www.grandhoteltremezzo.com Rooms & Suites 90 Villas 0 - Restaurants 3 Spa yes Children yes Chain none Affiliation Legend - Preferred Activities excursions Score 81 Environment 82 Design 80 Service 81 Cuisine 84 Health 76 Spa 80 Rooms 81

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DESTINATION | LAKE AND HILLS OF COMO

Tenuta de l’Annunziata Uggiate Trevano

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e dr ive a few k il o meter s outside Como.

Th e ve g e t at i on t hickens. We cro ss a fo res t of c h estn ut trees, u nt i l we s e e t h e l arg e est ate, to day a renown ed an d exc lusive far m . Swi t ze r la nd is a sto ne’s t hrow away, an d th is strategic p os i t i on wa s a l ready ap p reciated in an cient times by th e R om a n s. N at u re and agr icul t ure have al ways been th e main i nte r p re te r s of t he ter r ito r y, so mu ch s o th at h ere n ature b e com e s a f lavo r. Or b et ter said, t ho se wh o k n ow h ow to i nte r p re t a n d resp ec t it s seaso nal it y are th en able to offer g a s t ron om i c exp er iences o f great imp ac t.

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It is precisely the cuisine that makes Tenuta de l’Annunziata special. The work of the Guffanti family, owners of the estate and related farms and that of chef Alfio Nicolosi is a delicate operation to exploit the agricultural tradition of the area in order to combine it with the increasingly competitive needs of the hospitality and catering industries.

The result is that over 50% of the products used in the QUERCUS restaurant kitchen come from their own farms. The rest is carefully selected from among the best family-run (or quasi) production companies. A breakfast at L’Annunziata is never to be taken for granted: even bread, butter and jam, for example, have a name, an origin and are special and the staff proudly illustrates them to the most curious guests.

The QUERCUS restaurant offers three tasting routes with evocative names: the Scoiattolo, Volpe and Tasso menus, from 6 to 10 courses. Eating at QUERCUS is like going into a forest animated by sounds, colors and fragrances. But above all it is an always a different experience because it is determined by the best seasonal products.

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DESTINATION | LAKE AND HILLS OF COMO

From above in the Red Suite, constructed in the old tower, we obser ve the sunset. The silence is ever so slightly interrupted by the movement of wild animals that inhabit the forest. The bottle of Orturgo (an excellent white wine from Piacenza produced by a family company) is waiting for us on ice for an aperitif. Soon we will descend to dinner to allow ourselves to be guided on a multisensor y journey that will see us as privileged witnesses. Amid childhood flavors and daring combinations, the picture -dishes will follow each other in a daring choreography accompanied by the wines chosen by the sommelier. Among other, we enjoy Mini burgers of Fassona tartare and old-fashioned mustard (with Ca ‘del Bosco Reserve Annamaria Clementi Rosè), Cod marinated with citrus fruits (with Nibbio Orturgo Frizzante 2016), Carnaroli rice “Riser va San Massimo” cauliflower, caviar and oil pearls (with Guoce Gutturnio Superiore 2016, also produced in the estate), Lamb, pepper caramel and cream of Jerusalem artichokes (with AR.PE.PE. - Last Sassella Rays Riserva 2009 Docg). The meal ends with desserts and among the pre - desserts, desserts and small pastries, we recall the Cannoli with citrus fruit ricotta and pistachios of Bronte.

Late in the evening, from the balcony of the Red Suite, we see the lights go out. Tomorrow at dawn, a walk in the woods before breakfast with homemade jams.

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DESTINATION | LAKE AND HILLS OF COMO

B u t a s t ay at L’ Annu nziat a is al so a welln ess path , made of exc u r s i on s a n d ac t ivit ies in t he Wel l ness S pa, wh ere we fin d an i n d oor p ool, ho t t ub, K neip p p at h, Finn ish saun a, h ammam, he r b a l s a u n a , ice fo u nt ain, emo t io nal sh ower s, relaxation are a , s ola r i u m and her b al tea.

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INFO HOTEL TENUTA DE L’ANNUNZIATA Uggiate Trevano, Italia www.tenutadelannunziata.it Rooms & Suites 21 Villas 0 - Restaurants 1 Spa yes Children yes Chain none Affiliation none Activities excursions, Score 80 Environment 81 Design 78 Service 80 Cuisine 82 Health 79 Spa 80 Rooms 80

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DESTINATION | PARIS

PARIS

A weekend in Paris is an opportunity to rediscover the Ville Lumiere in the springtime, with shady boulevards, parks and museums. In capital cities like this, where low season does not exist, it is the climate that makes the difference and which attracts visitors.

DESTINATION | PARIS

N u m e r o u s n otewor th y mu seums are al w ays cl ose at hand , but w e c h o se t h e Geor g es P ompidou C ent er (on t he ri ght i n t he i m age), c o n f id e n t i ally “Beau bou r g ” , i n perpet ual metamorphosi s and sti l l t h e a d m ir ed ma ster piece of archi tect Renzo Pi ano.

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Le Narcisse Blanc Paris

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et ween th e E iffel Tower an d Le s I nva l i d e s st ands t his new Par isian h otel in on e of th e ar i s toc rat i c p a l aces b u il t by H aussmann in th e n in eteenth ce nt u r y. I nt i m ate and discreet, it wel co m es guests in a lobby s i m i l a r to a li ving ro o m t hat over l o o ks a delightful cour t yard wh i c h d u r i n g t he su mmer wel co mes dehor s.

Th e wh i te n a rcissus, t he t heme t hat gives th e n ame to th e p rop e r t y, i s b a sed o n t he name t he co mposer R ey n aldo Han n u s e d for h i s b el oved dancer, C l éo de M érode: “delic ious little

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DESTINATION | PARIS

na rc i s s u s” ( “p ret t y l it t l e narcissus”). The décor of th e wh ole hote l i s p e r m e ated w it h an el eg ant t ime less classicism, with e t h e re a l b oi s e r ie, Ar t No u veau to u ches an d rare gildin g.

Th e room s a re al l different yet u nited by th e same décor.

S om e h ave a f irep l ace, and o t hers have a great view of th e b ou l e va rd a n d t he Par isian sk yl ine. There are also seven wellap p oi nte d s u ites w it h sep arate l iving an d sleepin g areas.

S om e a l s o h ave a b at ht u b.

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DESTINATION | PARIS

Th e R e s t a u rant C l ĂŠo is g over ned by Can adian -bor n c h ef Z a c h a r y G avi l l er. Fro m t he o p en k itchen th e creative process of t h e d i s h e s b eco mes a show w hich enter tain s. N umerous are th e orga n i c i n gredient s fo r a menu fo cu sed on fresh n ess an d l ig ht n e s s. S e r v ice is simp l e and sp o nt an eous. For lover s of i nt i m a c y, t h e re is al so a ro o m fo r p r ivate din n er s.

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DESTINATION | PARIS

At l e ve l 1 t h e re is a sp a w it h a l arg e sw immin g pool, saun a, ha m m a m , f i t n e ss center and t reat ment cabin s. Th e produc ts u s e d a re f rom Car it a, and t he at mo sp h ere is relaxed an d coll e c te d.

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DESTINATION | PARIS

D i s c re e t a n d refined, sil ent and efficient. Ver y well located b u t at t h e s a m e t ime set o n a resident ial street, out of th e f re n z y of t h e to ur ist area. Lovers o f b o u t iq ue h otels will surely f i n d a n i d e a l dest inat io n at Le Narcisse Blan c.

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INFO HOTEL

LE NARCISSE BLANC Paris, France www.lenarcisseblanc.com Rooms & Suites 37 Villas 0 - Restaurants 1 Spa yes Children yes Chain none Affiliation none Activities sightseeing Score 80 Environment 77 Design 80 Service 80 Cuisine 82 Health 80 Spa 80 Rooms 83

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DESTINATION | PARIS

Shangri-la Hotel Paris

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he b uil ding was erec ted in 1 8 9 6 as a p r i vate re s i d e n ce o f Pr ince R o l and B o na par te. Th e loc ation i s ve r y p re s t i gio u s, sit u ated b et ween t he statue of G eorge Wa s h i n g ton a n d t he Effel To u r. Architec t Er n st Jant y admirably con j u gate d t h e t aste o f t he era, real izing th e str uc ture in an ecl e c t i c s t yle t hat assemb l ed in a sing le buildin g different s t yle s of d i f fe rent p er io ds. The resul t is a mix of gran deur an d m a gn i f i ce n ce t hat to day gives deco ru m an d impor tan ce to o n e of t h e b e s t ho tel s in Par is.

Th e b u i ld i n g has b een incl uded in t he list of mon uments p rote c te d by t he st ate, and t he recep t io n rooms - as in deed th e wh ole h ote l a f ter t he 2006 acquisit io n - have been admirably re s tore d. Th e o r iginal g o l den st u cco es, mir ror s an d large c h a n d e l i e r s c harac ter ize t hese st atel y environ ments, mak in g th e h ote l t r u l y sp ecial.

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DESTINATION | PARIS

Th e s p a wa s created in t he fo r mer s tables. I ts premises are a r ra n g e d a ro u nd t he l arg e sw immin g pool, covered but i ll u m i n ate d by dayl ig ht. The Greek decoration s rec all th e G re e k- R om a n a nt iquit ies. On t he menu are treatments for th e b od y a n d f a ce, using t he p ro du c t s o f The Organ ic Ph ar mac y.

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DESTINATION | PARIS

Am on g t h e rest aurant s, L’Ab eil l e st an ds out with its t wo M i c h e l i n s t a r s and it s French cu isine. Th e n ame comes from th e b e e s i n c lu d ed in t he co at o f ar ms o f th e B on apar tes. Th e exe c u t i ve c h e f C hr isto p he M o ret p roves h imself con fident, p rop os i n g a menu o f exp er ienced t rad ition . On th e oth er ha n d, B a u h i n i a is mo re inter nat io nal and adds exotic scents f rom t h e Fa r East. Pro p o sal s al mo st o f colon ial in spiration exce l l e nt ly p re sented. Final l y, as usu al in th e S h an gr i-la, th ere i s a n exce l l e nt C hinese rest aurant, t he Shan g Palace.

Discreet and efficient service, glamour and atmosphere characterize the living room. The excellent cuisine, the central location and the intriguing views of the Eiffel Tower do the rest.

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INFO HOTEL

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL Paris, France www.shangri-la.com Rooms & Suites 101 Villas 0 - Restaurants 3 Spa yes Children yes Chain Shangri-la Affiliation none Activities sightseeing Score 81 Environment 80 Design 81 Service 80 Cuisine 82 Health 78 Spa 80 Rooms 83

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DESTINATION | ADDIS ABABA

ADDIS

One of the highest African capitals with its 2400 m a.s.l. enjoys a temperate climate. It arises not by chance in a holiday area of the nineteenth-century rulers who used to spend the summer here. The short stay of its Italian settlers in the thirties of the last century left traces in the city center.

ABABA

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DESTINATION | ADDIS ABABA

Radisson Blu

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Addis Ababa

resolutely contemporary spirit combining design with the offer of numerous services welcomes guests at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Addis Ababa. An international atmosphere pervades the spacious and lively lobby of this hotel, well positioned in the extensive urban scene of the Ethiopian capital.

Inside, guests are welcomed by the Signature Bar & Terrace: an ideal place to relax, socialize or even work quietly at any time of day, given the attention to both leisure travelers and those who have come for business. There is always the opportunity to enjoy sophisticated drinks or revitalizing snacks.

The rooms all boast essential design.

The French restaurant Verres en Vers reinterprets, in a modern way, the traditional Brasserie, placing itself as the first French style restaurant present in Addis Ababa.

The opportunity to enjoy a space for well-being is adequately met by the presence of the Rainforest Day Spa. The Radisson Blu Hotel, for all these reasons, is therefore the ideal address to choose for a stay in Addis Ababa. Here guests will enjoy moderate and functional luxury.

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Paolo Gerbaldo

INFO HOTEL

RADISSON BLU Addis Ababa, Ethiopia www.radissonblu.com Rooms & Suites 212 Villas 0 - Restaurants 1 Spa yes Children yes Chain Radisson Blu Affiliation none Activities sightseeing Score 76 Environment 72 Design 73 Service 80 Cuisine 83 Health 68 Spa 75 Rooms 82

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Loggiato dei Serviti

Firenze

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he defin ition “ h istor ic al ” re fe r r i n g to t h is ho tel is insufficient to contain th e emotion , b e a u t y, a n d c u lt ure t hat t his residence is capable of convey in g to t h os e wh o have t he o p p o r t u nit y to stay h ere. Th e h otel i s h ou s e d i n a 16t h- cent ur y b u il ding design ed by arch itec t Anton i o d a S a n g al l o t he El der fo r t he religious order of th e “ S e r va nt s of M ar y ” al so cal l ed “S er vit i ”. I t is located opposite th e I s t i t u to d eg l i I nno cent i and a sto ne’s th row from th e Cat h e d ra l, wh o se do me yo u can admire from th e win dows. Th e hote l i s com for t ab l e, discrete and el eg ant.

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INFO

HOTEL LOGGIATO DEI SERVITI Firenze, Italia www.loggiatodeiservitihotel.it

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Canon

EOS 760D

ometimes dimensions make the difference and in photography they often do - especially when it comes to telephoto lenses. Camera bodies, on the other hand, can give excellent results even if they remain compact, like the EOS 760D used for some tests. The resolution and manageability of this camera, as well as its extensible and revolving screen, are greatly appreciated.

On this camera we mounted a great wide angle zoom like the EFS 10-18 f 4.5-5.6 IS STM that allowed us to shoot excellent interiors and wide landscapes. And then we tried the immense telelens EF400 mm f 2.8L IS II USM. It does have a certain weight and encumbrance, largely justified by the optical groups of quality that it contains. However, it does remains manageable. That said, it is often used on a stand.

As we have mentioned, size makes a difference, and the photos that are obtained with this impressive tele-objective do, in fact, speak for themselves.

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INFO

CANON www.canon.com

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Elsa Bozzaotra

CBN Cosmetique Bio Naturelle Suisse

Beauty comes from pollen. The natural organic line of the wellknown Swiss manufacturer places itself therefore amid tradition and innovation.

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he brand proposes skin treatments with Active Plant Germ Cells which have telomere activity to extend cell life. These treatments are based on the discoveries of the winners of the Nobel Prize for Medicine.

The Cosmetique Bio Naturelle Suisse has offered for several years products based on natural Active Plant Germ Cells. The patent is based on the findings of U.S. researchers on the telomeres present in cells.

On that basis the laboratories of the CBN has continued its research, applying the findings to their cosmetics.

The result is a line of products based on the innovative Bio Germinal Complex obtained from the pollen grains of plants grown in the laboratory. The complex acts on the skin cells to extend their replicative capacity. All products are paraben-free, hypoallergenic and have foodgrade preservatives. The active ingredients come from organic crops.

The lines range from basic treatments, to specific ones for hydration, to anti-aging, to those specific for skin regeneration and so on up to the 101-actifs line, whose products add up to the best of the various lines to offer a complete solution to keep our skin in superb health.

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CBN (SIRPEA) San Giuliano Milanese, Italy www.sirpea.com

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Lawrence Taylor

PrimaDonna Elite

De’Longhi A m ust f or l ov e r s of I t a l i a n es p r e sso, c a p p uc c i n o a n d mo r e .

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urprisingly, among the various hot and cold drinks that PrimaDonna Elite can make is included an excellent espresso. Surprisingly because sometimes with automatic machines some functions are sacrificed only to offer a palatable range of possibilities.

So, let’s immediately clear the field and respond to the first fundamental question: the espresso is great. But not only that, you can also customize it by changing the temperature, the length and the intensity of the flavor. The system “from the bean to the cup” here plays a fundamental role. In fact, the aroma of freshly ground coffee is always better.

The cappuccino can be totally automatic and thus satisfy the lazy, but at the same time apprentice barmen can indulge themselves with the steam dispenser to whisk the milk to taste. Apart from the many variations - single or double coffee type, American, latte macchiato, caffelatte, hot milk, espresso macchiato - PrimaDonna Elite also prepares excellent chocolate, tea and cold drinks. Anyone interested can read the recipe book provided by De’Longhi.

The strong points, apart from the excellent espresso, are the selfcleaning systems, the automation, personalization and versatility.

It is a bit noisy but only when it grinds the coffee. However, with the noise comes an engaging coffee aroma that spreads into the environment. In short, a must for lovers of Italian espresso and more.

Ah, I forgot, it is also a really beautiful piece of furnishing.

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DE’LONGHI Treviso, Italy www.delonghi.com

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Ovidio Guaita

Video Production From time-lapse to “4-ideas”. A video of a few seconds on the birth of a flower years ago inspired Alberto Pini, founder and CEO of Video Production. Since then the company has expanded to create the 4ideas brand.

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ideas is a 360 ° p ro du c t for busin ess com m u n i c at i on. One -sto p so l u t io n fo r videos, ph otos, gra p h i c s a n d co mmu nicat io n, u p to web s ites an d apps fo r s m at p h on es and t ab l et s. Fo r a co mpany, h avin g o n l y on e i nte r l o cu to r fo r t he var io us commun ic ation s e c tor s m e a n s o p t imizing co st s and t ime. A solution al s o a d op te d by var io u s ho sp it al it y st ruc tures. For th e tou r i s m i n d u s t r y in g eneral, co mmunicat ion is strategic.

Now i t i s n o l o ng er ju st a quest io n o f interdisciplin ar it y, o r t h e a b i l i t y to co mmunicate w it h different media ( p h otos, vi d e o s, so cial net wo r ks, etc. ) but also to use dif fe re nt l a n g u ag es. The end u ser is now s o acc ustomed to exce l l e nt i m a g es and video s t hat he mu st be sur pr ised wi t h n e w s h ot s - fo r examp l e, t ho se mad e with dron es i n i nte r i or s. Th e dro ne in video sho o t ing is un doubtedly o n e of t h e m ost p er fo r ming innovat io ns of our centur y an d Vi d e o Produ c t io n has made it it s b en ch mar k .

H e re’s h ow a t ime -l ap se o f a grow in g flower can c h a n ge a li fe. I t chang ed it fo r Al b er to Pini, cer tain ly for th e b e t te r a n d made it r ife w it h creat ivit y.

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VIDEO PRODUCTION Borgo San Lorenzo, Italy www.videoproduction.it

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Ovidio Guaita

Iuri Niccolai

fotografo

Seize the essence of a place in a shot. This is the mission of the Florentine photographer Iuri Niccolai.

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het her it is cor porate re p or t i n g, food, st il l l ife, real est ate o r inter ior s, Iur i c an f i n d t h e r i g ht l enses, t he mo st ap p ro p r iate sh ots, th e m os t i m p re s s i ve l ig ht s to do cument, inter pret an d make pe op l e d re a m .

I f t rave l rep o r t ing w it h it s exo t ic color s an d at m os p h e re i s o f great ap p eal, inter io r ph otos, with th e i r s h a d e s a n d p l ays o f l ig ht and shadow remain th e m os t d i f f i c u lt to achieve - esp ecial l y w hen n atural light i s n ot e n ou gh . And w hen ar t ificial l ig ht in g becomes a re q u i re m e nt - even if invasive due to th e equipment re q u i re d - I u r i so l ves t he sit uat io n w ith in n ovative te c h n i q u e s, s up er imp o sing different sh ots in postprod u c t i on to o b t aining imag es o f great impac t with out i nte r r u p t i n g t h e u se o f t he sp aces co ncer n ed.

I u r i s ays of h imsel f : “[Pho to grap hy] is t h e medium by wh i c h I wa s c h osen to co mmu nicate, and wh at I h ave to s ay i s i n s i d e my imag es�, mo re so t han in a declaration o f i nte nt.

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IURI NICCOLAI Firenze, Italy www.iuriniccolai.it

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