Luxury Living Magazine

IVING KEIRA

KNIGHTLEY The quintessential Chanel girl

A New World Order

ENTREPRENEURS SHAPING OUR WORLD FOR THE FUTURE

An electric revival of the most beautiful car in the world

THE JAGUAR E TYPE ZERO

THE ULTIMATE 2018 Travel Trends and Destination Guide ACCESS ALL AREAS Unveiling the future of Sotogrande 1

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Inspiring a lifetime of rare experiences 5

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IVING u

CONTENTS u

u FASHION Standing the Test of Time - Aston Martin The 2nd Skin Co. A/W 2017-2018 A Knight-ley in Shining Armour - Chanel

14 18 31

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u TRAVEL Couture Collection on the High Seas - Silversea Travel Trends for the Year Ahead The Orient Express

48 66 80

u LIVING Purdey - the Artisan Gunmaker Le Louvre - Abu Dhabi Indulge Yourself

93 102 118

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u DINING Char Anyone?

The Bigger the Better - Champagne Gourmet News

126 134 140

u POWER The News Rolls-Royce Phantom Lilium - the Taxi of the Future The New Flagship from Azimut Yachts

146 160 167

134 146

u SPORT Polo - But Not as You Know It! Sotogrande’s Golfing Jewel Volvo Ocean Race

174 179 186

u HOME How to Monetize an Art Collection Top 5 Most Valuable Paintings in Art Truly Enjoy Breakfast at Tiffany’s

196 200 210

u PROPERTY The Seven - From Vision to Reality Into the Lion’s Den Albert Court

216 227 244

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WELCOME u

A luxury a way of living...

Another year has flown by at a relentless pace but as we welcome in 2018 we also usher in the possibility for new exciting opportunities for the year ahead.

Within this edition of Luxury Living Magazine we take a look at these opportunities we look at who is shaping our world for the future, those challenging and shaping the way we live, work and play and unless you have been living on the moon these past couple of months you would have heard the buzz word of the moment which is of course Bitcoin, but what is it? Where did it come from and is it a viable investment for the future?

Many of us will probably have already broken our new year’s resolutions! However for those who promised to travel more and see the world. Within this edition we showcase some of the most exciting travel trends for the year ahead, from travelling on the Orient Express, to an expedition around the world in just 80days to sailing the seven seas we have it all covered.

And if that’s not enough we also we also bring you updates from the world of fashion, motoring and gastronomy. So sit back and enjoy!

Thanks for reading, THE EDITOR

u DESIGNED BY PRESSPREFER PUBLISHING SL. www.presspreferpublishing.com | info@presspreferpublishing.com The Luxury Living Magazine takes no responsibility for claims made in advertising or advertorial in this magazine.

No part of Luxury Living Magazine may be reproduced or copied in any way without prior written consent. © ClearVision Marketing SL

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Deposito Legal Nº CA 389-2017

ISSN Nº 2529-9387

LO-RES

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FASHION There are numerous brands of luxury clothing spread throughout the entire world that influence the fashion industry and it is they who dictate the trends you see sashaying along the high streets and catwalks. Luxury Living Magazine goes behind the scenes to bring you not just fashion reviews but some of the fashion world’s best kept secrets.

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STANDING THE TEST OF TIME

as one of motorsport’s most stylish partnerships, Hackett London and Aston Martin racing is a thing of true class

Hackett’s long-standing partnerships with Aston Martin, one of Britain’s most iconic luxury sports car manufacturers present their third luxury capsule collection ASTON MARTIN BY HACKETT. The Hackett collection takes inspiration from renowned quality and performance of both luxury brands offering the customer an elevated sports performance collection. Comprised of a nineteen piece collection, the Aston Martin by Hackett range is made up of outerwear, blazers, shirts, trousers and accessories. In classically masculine shades of navy, brown and grey, the colour palate is contemporary and elegantly holds a place in every gentleman’s wardrobe.

Core to the Hackett collection are the lustrous Leather Jackets becoming the must have item of the range. This season, the design has been reimagined and are available in two new colourways; a classic hazelnut nut brown made from deerskin as well as a luxe matt black option, developed with neoprene panels on the shoulders, sides and hem expertly crafted for a comfort and flexibility.

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With exquisite attention to detail and craft, the Autumn Winter product range includes a new Laser Cut Blazer with a zip out quilted gilet which has been expertly constructed with no-sew technology and bonded seams making the item reliably waterproof and functional whilst not compromising on design.

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A new addition to the collection is the Suede and Nylon Padded Jacket defining smart casual dressing finished with exclusive Aston Martin hardware which has been used throughout the range.

Key accessories have been designed to perfectly compliment the apparel line, including a Loro Piana Storm System Holdall and a 24Hr leather holdall, ideal for weekend packing and pursuing the delights of adventure out on the road.

The Autumn/Winter 2017 Aston Martin by Hackett collection will be available from the end of September across global Hackett flagship stores, Aston Martin No.8 Dover Street and online at www.hackett.com 15

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The 2nd SKIN Co. Fall Winter 2017-2018 Created by Antonio Burillo and Juan Carlos Fernandez, The 2nd Skin Co. is a contemporary Spanish fashion label which brings together the founders rich history in fashion design. Launched in 2006, The 2nd Skin Co. focuses on creating both pret-a-porter and atelier collections, with the former creating a range of feminine, elegant designs and the latter, a bespoke offering tailored to the individual.

u The 2nd Skin Co.’s collection of clothing includes a range of tops, dresses and separates which combine exquisite materials with a feminine yet understated aesthetic, their latest collection for Winter Fall 2017-2018 titled Porcelain pays homage to the mysteries of the East, reflecting the journeys travelled along the ancient Silk Road and China’s exotic past.

Patterns simulate the images reflected on porcelain vases with white or celestial backgrounds, floral brocades with inlaid gold wire, oriental shapes and an explosion of colour with blacks, greens, reds, blues, pinks, whites and oranges flirting on dresses of variable length and kimonos reinterpreted for the modern woman Striking by design the collection also presents a “soft and elegant” appeal achieved by using silk and satin paired with rich fabrics like organza, twill, Mikado or wool crepe.

Bias cuts draw the eye and accentuate the female silhouettes while still maintaining the hidden charms of a femininity and sophistication.

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THE FOUNDERS THE 2ND SKIN CO. fashion brand was created by Antonio Burillo and Juan Carlos Fernández, both with a long background in the fashion business. Bound by an aesthetic complementarity and partners by passion, they created the company in 2006, obtaining a wide coverage in the press that had been waiting for this stealthy appearance with high expectations.

THE 2ND SKIN CO.’s activity focuses on two main lines, differentiated by price, quality, preparation and dedication. The prêt-a-porter is distributed in a selected network of multi-brand stores, where the product fits for its urban, sober, feminine and elegant style, with details in the garments appreciated by a woman who has no age, but is exigent about her image and enjoys the finest quality. The Atelier collection, offers tailored clothes with exclusive handmade models. This sewing service, oriented to people who seek a unique, custom design and exquisite materials, proposes items ranging from wedding dresses, formal dresses, evening models to any garment that may require a special and unique pattern and that will fit perfectly.

The universe of THE 2ND SKIN CO. offers a contemporary version of close and versatile luxury, suitable for a wide range of women, with different tastes and life styles.

The sophisticated simplicity of the designs and their delicate sewing are the best proof of the taste, the skills and the aspirations of the team that configures THE 2ND SKIN CO. www.the2ndskinco.com 21

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GIORGIO ARMANI & BUGATTI collaborate and present this limited edition line of products

u Giorgio Armani and renowned luxury car manufacturer Bugatti are pleased to announce their collaboration for the creation of an artisanal capsule collection of small leather goods and refined clothing – Giorgio Armani for Bugatti.

The Italian and the French brand have come together for the first time to promote a vision of dynamic and timeless elegance. The objective of Giorgio Armani and Bugatti is to offer their customers products that are distinguished by top-quality materials and the skill evident in their creation. The Giorgio Armani for Bugatti capsule collection is made for a sophisticated man who constantly seeks out exclusive luxury.

“It was very natural to come together with Bugatti. We both worship things that are made well, made to last, created out of the best materials. The capsule condenses this encounter in a series of clothes and accessories designed to be worn by men who only look for the best and who live an active and dynamic lifestyle”, said Giorgio Armani.

“Cooperation with Giorgio Armani is a great honour for us,” said Wolfgang Dürheimer, President of Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S. “When one of the most influential and highly recognised fashion and lifestyle brands and the most exclusive super sports car brand in the world, which has its roots in art and design, join forces, this is an unusual, exciting and inspiring project. The result is an extremely well-made combination of the style and perfection of Giorgio Armani and the Bugatti brand DNA.” Accessories and garments in the capsule collection, launching for autumn/winter 2016-2017, feature details that reference the iconic motifs of the Bugatti brand. The horseshoe-shaped emblem on the front of the cars is seen on pendants for bags, while Bugatti’s brand colour blue appears on inner linings of bags, in interior pockets and on the treads and insoles of footwear. The palette, focused on the three stylish and timeless colours of cognac, army green and blue, is a recurring element of the collection.

The highlight of the accessories is an elegant briefcase in soft calfskin, made entirely by hand, with a convenient front pocket; there is also an exquisite version of this piece in lined matte crocodile suede, tactile and luxurious in Bugatti blue. In addition, there is a more roomy weekend bag, while small leather goods, available in calfskin or crocodile skin, include belts, wallets, iPad cases, and beauty cases featuring a prominent zip closure. Clothing includes a coat and blouson jacket in refined double cashmere, superfine cashmere sweaters, a leather jacket with raised collar and concealed hood, as well as treated denim jeans that look as soft as velvet, thanks to their handmade flocking.

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The offering is rounded off with calfskin sneakers with crocodile details, which have a blue interior and a Giorgio Armani for Bugatti label, a sports driver blazer in crocodile skin, available in cognac and army green, and a cap in double cashmere cloth with trim in Bugatti blue. Garments and accessories are manufactured in limited editions and numbered, and display the special logo: Giorgio Armani for Bugatti. The capsule collection will be on sale in select Giorgio Armani boutiques and in Ettore Bugatti lifestyle boutiques.

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I N T R O D U C I N G

MODERN MUSE B E

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I N S P I R AT I O N

WORLD of WATCHES mademoiselle

RE-BELLE Cvstos opens up to a world of dreams and wonderment with its Re-Belle collection dedicated to women and harmoniously mingling watchmaking, jewellery and artistic crafts. Framed by an extremely elegant snow-set tonneau-shaped case, the sakura interpretation gives life to a bed of flowers on a mother-of-pearl background, lit up by diamonds, sapphires and tsavorites. Hand-painted and applied or set with vividly coloured gems, dainty butterflies settle gently on the Re-Belle Papillon model, a precious interpretation of this authentic hymn to nature and beauty. Crafted in pink gold or steel, these exceptional models beat the rhythm of a mechanical movement visible through the sapphire crystal caseback. They are fitted with an alligator strap available in soft shades to make a perfect match with the various dial compositions and the precious stones adorning the case. movement Functions Case

dial Bracelet/strap

mechanical self winding, Cvstos 551 Calibre, 23 jewels, 28,800 vib/h, oscillating weight made from an exclusive Tungsten 88 & Titanium Technology calibre, 42h power reserve

Hours, minutes, seconds, large date, dual time (Re-Belle sakura).

Hours, minutes, seconds (Re-Belle Papillon).

5N pink gold or polished 316l steel, tonneau-shaped, 36 mm x 47.2 mm. set with diamonds, coloured sapphires or tsavorites. sapphire crystal, glareproofed on both sides. sapphire crystal caseback. Water-resistant to 100 metres (10 bar / 330 ft).

mother-of-pearl. Hand-painted 3d butterflies or flowers. diamond hour-markers. Hands enhanced with super-luminova. alligator strap with pin buckle.

ECCENTRICA daring, self-confident, entirely new and yet giving the impression it has always been part of the de Grisogono family, the new eccentrica collection opens up unexplored creative territory. By imagining an anti-conformist design expressed through a succession of nested circles with varying diameters and centres, Fawaz Gruosi has found the key to a perfectly harmonious geometrical aesthetic. it creates an original visual balance, like a hymn to roundness, in which diamonds trace mesmerising depth effects, while the overall subtly asymmetrical structure extends through to the lugs. The large arabic numerals on the dial tell the story of time with appealing opulence. a crown set with a black diamond and a galuchat-dotted strap set the perfectly elegant finishing touches to a watch bearing the inimitable identity codes of the maison de Grisogono that naturally predestine it for success. movement

Functions Case

dial Bracelet/strap

mechanical automatic, dG 10-01 calibre, 140 components, 25 jewels, 28,800 vib/h (4 Hz), black PVd-treated components, 24K gold rotor open-worked with de Grisogono swirls, “eccentrica”-engraved disc. 42-hour power reserve. offset hours and minutes.

18K polished rose gold, 39.7 mm (3 – 9 o’clock) and 10.60 mm thick. set with 660 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 5.01 cts). sapphire crystal, front and back. Water-resistant to 30 metres (3 bar/100 ft).

entirely paved with 316 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 1.823 cts). applied 18K gold numerals on several levels.

Genuine galuchat. de Grisogono triple folding clasp set with 88 diamonds (approx. 0.54 cts).

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AVENUE CLASSIC CHERRY BLOSSOM Harry Winston captures the ephemeral beauty of a cherry tree in bloom to give life to the captivating avenue Classic Cherry Blossom. For the dial, mother-of-pearl makes an iridescent backdrop to a flurry of 39 white diamonds and 29 pink sapphires that represent the flowers and petals of the cherry blossom tree, a sign that spring has arrived. attached to the white gold branches or floating gently to the ground, the precious stones are cut in different sizes to create fascinating effects of depth and movement. They form a representation of nature’s beauty that will never fade. This magnificent tableau is framed by an 18k white gold case whose architecture echoes the stately stone facade of Harry Winston’s historic Fifth avenue salon in New York, and the three arches surrounding the entrance. The 29 brilliantcut diamonds on the case are a reminder of the long-standing association between the House of Harry Winston and precious stones. movement Functions Case

dial Bracelet/strap

Quartz.

Hours, minutes.

18k white gold, 21.2 mm x 36.1 mm. set with 29 brilliant-cut diamonds (2.21 cts). sapphire crystal, glareproofed on both sides. Water-resistant to 3 bar (30 m / 100 ft). mother-of-pearl set with 29 brilliant-cut pink sapphires (approx. 0.04 ct) and 39 brilliant-cut diamonds (0.08 ct).

Green-blue alligator without stitching. 18k white gold buckle set with 6 brilliant-cut diamonds.

SELLERIA STRAP YOU inspired by the FeNdi strap You collection of shoulder straps, the selleria strap You watch brings a fanciful touch to feminine wrists. This playful and sophisticated model is fitted with a double tour calfskin leather strap embellished by various ornaments ranging from multi-coloured lucite studs to leather flowers featuring a central stud. available in seven versions, this strap can be easily changed to suit the present mood simply by rotating the caseback, thanks to an ingenious patented interchangeable strap system. available in yellow gold or anthracite tones, the mother-of-pearl dial takes its astuccio motif from a sketch made by Karl lagerfeld in 1971 for the iconic fur bearing the same name. a nod to the hand-crafted expertise of the maison, the Roman numerals and hour-markers appear like topstitching on the dial, further accentuating the intensely Fendi spirit of this new selleria strap You. movement Functions Case

dial

Bracelet/strap

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Quartz.

Hours, minutes, seconds.

stainless steel, 36 mm. stainless steel or 18K goldplated (10 micron) bezel. Crown with mother-of-pearl cabochon. sapphire crystal. Caseback opening to easily change the strap. Water-resistant to 50 metres (5 bar / 165 ft).

White mother-of-pearl dial with astuccio motif in yellow gold and white tones or anthracite and white tones. stitched Roman numerals and hour-markers, silver or yellow gold-coloured.

interchangeable double tour strap in Fendi dolce T calfskin adorned with multi-coloured lucite studs, or Fendi Catalan calfskin adorned with leather flowers featuring a central cone-shaped stud. stainless steel pin buckle.

LVCEA MOON PHASES Placing women at the heart of its concerns, Bvlgari plays with contrasts and allies light and moon by revealing the various phases of the mysterious heavenly body on its lvcea watch. The mother-of-pearl dial reveals a sky alternately unveiling the new moon, the first quarter, the full moon and the last quarter. in a blend of poetry and horological precision, the lunar cycle calculation is orchestrated by the automatic BVl 210 calibre, decorated and finished in the finest swiss traditions. The new lvcea moon phases is the ultimate temptation, interpreted in various compositions staging fascinating encounters between the ‘light watch’ and the night star. intense blue, bright red or plum coloured: the sky around which the moon performs its steady rotations echoes the shade of the strap, while the pink or white gold case is interpreted in versions with or without diamonds, as do the lugs. movement Functions Case dial

Bracelet/strap

mechanical automatic, BVl 210 calibre. Côtes de Genève decoration, chamfered and snailed finishing. 42-hour power reserve.

Hours, minutes, moonphases.

18K pink or white gold, 36 mm. Bezel in 18K pink gold and steel or 18K gold set with 45 brilliant-cut diamonds (approx. 1.45 cts). Crown set with a cabochon-cut pink stone and a brilliant-cut diamond. Water-resistant to 50 metres (5 bar /165 ft). mother-of-pearl. Brilliant-cut hour-markers. Heart of ruby or aventurine moon disc.

Purple, red or blue alligator. Buckle in 18K pink or white gold.

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A KNIGHT-LEY IN SHINING ARMOUR Fine jewellery by

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The name CHANEL resonates within the world of fashion, synonymous with Gabrielle Chanel (aka Coco Chanel), the fiercely imaginative fashion icon who created the first ever flap cover and chain-link strap handbag, re-imagined the little black dress so it became a staple piece in every women’s wardrobe and made tweeds fashionable, CHANEL is arguable one of the most prestigious and premiere haute couture houses in the world.

u While its perfumery and clothing designs have achieved worldwide recognition, its fine jewellery collections have remained mysterious only acknowledged by a select few until now!

Feminine, elegant and luxuriously simple, CHANEL’s fine jewellery collections has included various themes such as Camèlia, a jewellery collection featuring Chanel’s favourite flower, Ultra, a monochrome collection of Black and white pieces symbolizing the signature look of Chanel’s inimitable style, Comète, a collection that features the emblem of CHANEL – the comet, Sous Le Signe Du Lion, a collection featuring the powerful and graceful emblem of CHANEL’s zodiac sign the lion and most recently Coco Crush, a fusion of gold, diamonds and the emblematic moto of CHANEL.

The Coco Crush collection first launched last year is entirely dedicated to the “matelassé” or quilted pattern seen in a myriad of the French luxury label’s designs most notably on its best-selling handbags.

Presented in white or yellow gold the collection features rings, bangles, cuff ’s and earrings with the brand’s “iconic quilted” patchwork criss-cross detailing a forefront of the design In a departure from the label’s more intricate Comète or Camélia collections, the limited-edition Coco Crush pieces showcase refined curves, with soft scalloped edges with some more intricate pieces encrusted with diamonds and engraved with CHANEL’s beloved lion symbol

CHANEL invented fashion and over the years the house has reinvented modern classics, she once said,

“fashion fades, only style remains the same”

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under the ice time stands still introducing the cellular swiss ice crystal collection la prairie’s age-delaying fortifiers

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WORLD of WATCHES MONSIEUR

AVENGER HURRICANE MILITARY – Limited Edition Breitling adds a new strike force to its Avenger Hurricane squadron, with an instrument clearly cut out for great accomplishments. The superlative-charged Avenger Hurricane Military asserts its character in an imposing 50 mm case made of Breitlight®, an exclusive high-tech material 3.3 times lighter than titanium and 5.8 times lighter than steel, yet significantly harder. It is endowed with a number of qualities (exceptional resistance to scratching, traction and corrosion, thermal stability, along with non-magnetic and non-allergenic properties). To set a unique and reliable cadence for timing impressive feats, the Avenger Hurricane Military houses Manufacture Breitling Caliber B12, chronometer-certified by the COSC and displaying the time in an original 24-hour mode, as is used in the military and among pilots. The luminescent numerals and hands bear a vintage yellow-beige colour, a nod to the instruments produced by the brand for the aeronautical and military fields from the 1940s to the 1960s. This model is issued in a 1,000-piece limited edition.

Movement Functions Case Dial

Bracelet/strap

Mechanical automatic, Manufacture Breitling Caliber B12, 47 jewels, 28,800 vib/h, over 70-hour power reserve.

24-hour display, minutes, seconds, chronograph, date, 30-minute and 12-hours totalizers.

Breitlight®, 50 mm. Unidirectional ratcheted rotating bezel.

Water-resistant to 100 metres (10 bar/330 ft).

Volcano black, luminescent numerals and hour-markers.

Military rubber

ASTRONOMIA SOLAR Jacob & Co. sets a new milestone in its representation of the Earth within the solar system with this first-ever reproduction of all eight planets on a dial around a majestic Sun, formed by a citrine displaying the 288 facets of the Jacob Cut®.

The hand-engraved Earth rotates around its axis once every 60 seconds and makes one complete revolution of the dial in 10 minutes, as do the flying tourbillon and the hours and minutes dial, all three forming an assembly. Specially created for the Astronomia Solar, the hand-wound JCAM19 calibre is faster than any of the previous movements in the Astronomia collection, despite its smaller size and new functions. By rotating 360° clockwise in 10 minutes, while the aventurine base turns counter-clockwise at the same speed, it creates a captivating, accelerated view of our solar system and an impression of zero gravity.

Movement

Functions Case Dial

Bracelet/straps

Mechanical hand-wound, Jacob & Co. JCAM19 in-house calibre, rotating 360° in 10 minutes, aventurine base rotating counter-clockwise 360° in 10 minutes, 447 components, 43 jewels, 28,800 vib/h, 48-hour power reserve.

Hours, minutes, 60-second bi-axial flying tourbillon, 60-second rotating Earth.

18k red gold, 44.5 mm. Sapphire crystal caseband. Domed sapphire top crystal, glareproofed on both sides. Waterresistant to 30 metres (3 bar/100 ft).

Sapphire crystal with pink gold metallisation. Blued hands.

Alligator with 18k pink gold folding clasp.

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L.U.C XPS TWIST QF FAIRMINED – Limited Edition A pioneer in the development of sustainable luxury, Chopard launches a new L.U.C watch made of ethical pink gold: the L.U.C XPS Twist QF Fairmined. Crafted in the Chopard workshops where gold from “Fairmined” certified sources is rigorously separated from other alloys in order to guarantee complete traceability, the ultra-thin case radiates a subtly off-centred expression of elegance, with the 4 o’clock crown echoing the asymmetry of the small seconds appearing at 7 o’clock on the dial. The latter is swept over by raised sunbeam motifs evoking the texture of raw gold nuggets. The remarkably technical L.U.C. XPS Twist QF Fairmined bers the Fleurier Quality Foundation label, the most demanding certification testifying to the precision, reliability, durability and quality of the movement finishing, as well as the provenance of the watch as a whole – of which each component must be made manufactured in Switzerland. 250-piece limited edition.

Movement

Functions Case Dial

Bracelet/strap

Mechanical automatic, L.U.C 96-09-L calibre, 29 jewels, 28,800 vib/h, Twin® barrels, 22K gold microrotor, bridges adorned with Côtes de Genève, 65-hour power reserve.

Hours, minutes, seconds.

“Fairmined” 18K pink gold, 40 mm in diameter, 7.2 mm thick. Anti-reflective sapphire crystal. Sapphire caseback. Water-resistant to 30 metres (3 bar /100 ft).

Slate grey with stamped motif.

Matt black alligator dyed with plant-based pigments, CITES certified, hand-sewn. Alligator lining. 18K pink gold pin buckle.

THE LINDBERGH HOUR ANGLE WATCH 90TH ANNIVERSARY In 1927, Charles Lindbergh made history as the first person to complete a non-stop solo transatlantic flight - timed by Longines in its capacity as official supplier to the International Aeronautical Federation. Shortly after, he devised an hour angle watch in collaboration with the Swiss watch brand that could be used to precisely calculate longitude during longdistance flights. It too went down in legend. Now Longines is reissuing this Hour Angle Watch as a limited series of 90 to mark the 90th anniversary of Lindbergh’s exploit. Equipped with a rotating bezel for correcting the equation of time, and a mobile central dial to set the exact second, this timepiece also indicates the hour angle in degrees and minutes. The titanium case is exactly the same size as the original, at an imposing 47.5 mm in diameter, for easy handling even when wearing gloves.

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Movement Functions

Case Dial Bracelet/strap

Mechanical automatic, L699.2 (ETA A07.111) calibre, 24 jewels, 28,800 vib/h, 42-hour power reserve.

Hours, minutes, seconds, longitude (in degrees and minutes), seconds synchronised to a radiotransmitted signal (by the mobile central dial) correction of the equation of time (by the rotating bezel).

Titanium, 47.5 mm. Black PVD steel bezel, steel “boule” crown. Multi-layer anti-reflective sapphire crystal. Waterresistant to 3 bar (30 m/100 ft).

Silver-toned with circular-brushed finish, galvanic black central dial. Degrees in painted black Arabic numerals.

Rhodium-plated Breguet hands.

Brown calfskin with buckle and extension.

V45 SQT SERIE For 25 years, Franck Muller has been reinterpreting watchmaking tradition in order to propel it into a high-tech dimension. The 2017 creations are no exception to the rule and send a distinctly avant-garde breeze blowing through the time-honoured art of skeleton-working.

The tourbillon bridges of the Gravity™ Skeleton take their place within a 3D architectural concept, supported by a rounded structure that is entirely openworked, like the mainplate.

While this new model can be personalised by means of variously coloured finishing options, the Vanguard™ Skeleton Sapphire is all about transparency.

Its case crafted from a sapphire crystal block calls upon the most advanced skills in highlighting this tourbillon with its extremely graphic structure. No less than two months of machining, followed by two months of polishing, are required to create this sapphire crystal case. In a more sporting style, the Vanguard™ 7 Days Power Reserve Skeleton features a blend of design and performance. As its name implies, it accomplishes the feat of ensuring seven days of autonomy, despite the movement components being openworked in the extreme so as to transform the beating heart of the watch into an authentic mechanical sculpture.

GENEVE - V45 T GRAVITY CS SQT

GENEVE - V 45 T SQT SAPPHIRE

Functions

Hours, minutes, seconds

Functions

Dial

Anodized aluminium, black PVD treatment, 18 carat gold or rhodium plating

Movement Case

Bracelet/Strap

Manual-winding mechanical movement

Carbon, titanium with PVD treatment, stainless steel, 18 carat gold

Movement Case Dial

Bracelet/Strap

Manual-winding mechanical movement

Hours, minutes, seconds

Satin-brushed, hand-chamfered White PVD openwork dial

Alligator strap

Rubber (bottom) with alligator (top) with coloured finishes

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INTRODUCING

THE ART OF DE GRISOGONO

By offering the largest flawless D-colour diamond ever to come to auction

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Christie’s and de GRISOGONO presented : The Art of de GRISOGONO, forming a partnership that brought to auction the most exquisite diamonds ever offered to the market, by presenting a unique necklace suspending a 163.41-carat, D colour, flawless, IIA type diamond.

u Rahul Kadakia, International Head of Christie’s Jewels commented: “Over our 251 year history, Christie’s has had the privilege of handling the world’s rarest and most historic diamonds. The sensational 163.41 carat perfect diamond suspended from an elegant emerald and diamond necklace propels de GRISOGONO into a class of their own.”

Established in Geneva, Switzerland in 1993, de GRISOGONO was founded by Fawaz Gruosi on three pillars: craftsmanship, innovation and creativity. On the eve of the 25th anniversary year of de GRISOGONO, the founder’s vision is to expand his fine jewellery collection by working exclusively with a handful of the largest flawless diamonds of perfect polish and symmetry. Combining these unparalleled stones with years of craftmanship, the first exceptional jewel has been created around the largest D colour, flawless diamond ever to come to auction, a 163.41 carat stone, cut from a 404 carats-rough, which was discovered in early February 2016 in the Lulo mine, located in the Lunda Sul Province in Angola.

The “4 de Fevereiro” rough is the 27th biggest rough white diamond ever discovered and the largest in Angola. The rough was analysed in Antwerp and cut in New York, where a team of 10 diamondcutting specialists were involved in mapping, plotting, cleaving, laser-cutting and polishing the rough 404.20 carat into a unique 163.41 carat emerald-cut stone. The first cut was done on 29th of June 2016, when the 80 year old master diamond cleaver performed a cut along a grain line to cleave the crystal in two. After 11 months of work the polished 163.41-carat stone was ready to be sent to the GIA in late December 2016. To date this is the largest D flawless diamond ever to appear for sale at auction.

In Geneva at de GRISOGONO, Fawaz Gruosi, together with his team created 50 different designs around the 163.41-carat stone and in early February 2017, coinciding with the first anniversary of its discovery, the final choice of the design was made: an asymmetric necklace with the 163.41-carat diamond as the centrepiece, trailing on the left side 18 emerald-cut diamonds and to the right two rows of pear-shaped emeralds, offering a fresh contrast to the cool white diamonds as well as a nod to Mr. Gruosi’s superstition - green means good luck – and hence, emeralds take a central part in his collections. No gold is visible between the emeralds as each gem is perfectly matched with its neighbour and the metal is darkened to create the chiaroscuro effect that is so characteristic of de GRISOGONO. The prongs holding in place the 163.41 carat diamond disappear under four baguette-cut diamonds creating an effect of dazzling brilliance. The reverse side of the gold basket is engraved with the diamond’s weight and set with yet more diamonds.

It took over 1700 hours to create this unique jewel and involved a team of 14 craftsmen and their know-how as well as love for perfection for each detail in the necklace.

Christie’s was honoured to present to the world this masterpiece of unparalleled beauty and exquisite workmanship during their preview exhibitions in Hong Kong, London, Dubai, New York and Geneva. The necklace was also offered in the Magnificent Jewels auction which took place on 14 November in Geneva at the Four Seasons Hotel des Bergues with the sale price reaching £25 million.

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DESIGN LEGEND by Zaha Hadid BVLGARI.COM

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TRAVEL One of the greatest pleasures of life is being able to travel the world and wonder in awe at its beauty.

From faraway exotic lands to exclusive destinations, resorts, spas, villas for your family vacation or romantic getaway Luxuary Living Magazine features some of the world’s finest luxury hotels and travel destinations.

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COUTURE COLLECTION ON THE HIGH SEAS

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Silversea introduces inaugral 2018 ‘Couture Collection’ of bespoke global experiences

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Ultra-luxury Silversea Cruises is introducing a new 2018 Couture Collection, an exclusive series of ocean and land adventures custom-designed for the world’s most discerning travelers. The inaugural 2018 Couture Collection is an inspired portfolio of nine pre- and post-cruise luxury land programs of five to 11 days, offering authentic and immersive travel experiences in the most remote and untouched regions of the Earth.

u “Our guests are seasoned luxury travelers looking to discover the least accessible corners of our planet, where nature can still astound with its untouched beauty,” said Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio, Silversea’s Executive Chairman. “The Couture Collection reveals the most exotic places, cultures and people on carefully curated journeys that feature all the extraordinary touches of comfort and luxury for which Silversea is renowned.”

Silversea’s own experience architects, drawing on the best itinerary expertise and global knowledge, have custom-crafted each element of the 2018 Couture Collection down to the smallest details. Silversea’s experts designed the inaugural collection with inspiration from Silversea guests; a survey of North American travelers, 87 percent of whom are from the United States, explored guests’ “dream destinations” and most sought-after cultural experiences.

The pre- and post-cruise Couture Collection includes exclusive amenities ranging from private helicopter service in Mongolia to vintage rail in India and Gulfstream jets in and out of Antarctica.

Prices average $34,000 per guest for each five- to eleven-day adventure, with the 11-day South Pole itinerary leading the collection starting at $78,000 per guest.

The Couture Collection programs are limited to small groups and include most meals, beverages and exclusive culinary events. Guests enjoy inclusive luxury accommodations at renowned boutique hotels, lodges and private tents specifically built for these experiences. Each bespoke adventure is fully escorted. Each program provides a perfect extension to select Silversea cruises, creating an unrivalled luxury travel experience, deeper on land.

Conrad Combrink, Vice President Strategic Development Expeditions and Experiences hand crafted each of these expeditions under the watchful eye of Silversea’s Executive Chairman, Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio.

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Following is a snapshot of the all-new Couture Collection programs: RwANDA & SERENGEtI: Walking in the Footsteps of Giants

Come face-to-face with the power and beauty that is Africa. Explore the lush rain forests of Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park while looking for the majestic mountain gorilla in an exclusive 2 day trekking experience.

Go on a game drive seeking the Big Five from a custom 4x4 in tanzania’s Serengeti National Park, a UNESCO world Heritage Site best known for its amazing annual migration of wildebeest, gazelles and zebras.

Eight days from $19,959; departures on Nov. 20 or 27; combinable with Silver Discoverer expeditions departing on Nov. 16 or 27.

u wHItE DESERt & SOUtH POLE: Standing on the Bottom of the Earth

No place on Earth can compare to the vast white desert of Antarctica. Explore spectacular ice caves and tunnels. Climb a glacial island. Photograph a remarkable colony of emperor penguins at Atka Bay. Follow in the footsteps of Roald Amundsen and Robert Scott and be among the privileged few who have reached the South Pole. Enjoy the comforts and luxury of a stay at whichaway Camp. Fly in and out of Antarctica on a Gulfstream business jet.

Eleven Days from $78,000; departure on Jan. 2; combinable with Silver Spirit’s Dec. 18, 2017 voyage.

u NAMIBIA & ROVOS RAIL

Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the Namibia Desert at the award-winning Little Kulala Camp in the Kulala wilderness Reserve. Go flightseeing over the Skeleton Coast. Marvel at Sesriem Canyon. Float above enchanting desert landscapes in a hot-air balloon. From Pretoria to Cape town, journey in luxury aboard the iconic Rovos Rail, known as The Most Luxurious train in the world. Savor the South African scenery from a carefully restored carriage that evokes the charms of a bygone era.

Six days from $11,299; departures on Jan. 8 or Mar. 14; combinable with cruises on Silver Spirit ( Jan. 15) or Silver Cloud (Mar. 21).

u INDIA: In the Path of Powerful Titans

Enjoy the luxury of private flights throughout India. track tigers in Ranthambore wildlife reserve. Journey by vintage rail to the magnificent Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur, where an elegant dinner includes stunning views of Mehrangarh, an impressive centuries-old fort. witness the charms of the ancient city of Jaisalmer from the comfort of The Serai luxury camp. Explore majestic desert dunes on a jeep or camel safari, then sample delicacies at an elegant bush dinner.

Six days from $32,799; departure on Oct. 23; combinable with Silver Muse’s Oct. 8 cruise.

u AUStRALIA: Exploring the Unforgiving and Unforgettable Outback

Enjoy private air travel to and from Darwin to experience an authentic outback adventure at the Bullo River Station, a cattle ranch tucked in the northwest corner of Australia’s Northern territory. Explore Aboriginal rock art galleries. Cruise up the spectacular Bullo River Gorge. Discover the amazing landscape of the Bungle Bungle Range. Swim in the jade-green natural rock pools of the Cascades.

Five days from $19,919; departures on Jul. 23 or 29; combinable with Silver Discoverer expeditions departing on Jul. 19 or 29.

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ICELAND: Revealing the Legends of Fire and Ice

From thermal springs to glaciers, Iceland is a land of remarkable contrasts. Enjoy private helicopter travel to explore its most amazing wonders. Sip a champagne toast at the famous Godafoss waterfall.

During at stay at Deplar, a sheep farm turned luxury lodge, go kayaking, mountain biking, whale watching and more. Visit the bird-watching wonderland of Drangey Island. Lunch atop a glaciercapped volcano. Enter a man-made ice tunnel at Langjokull Glacier.

Five days from $45,199; departures on Aug. 2 or 8; combinable with Silver Cloud expeditions departing on Jul. 27 or Aug. 8.

u tIBEt: Standing on the Rooftop of the World

Discover some of the most amazing and isolated places on Earth. Observe morning prayers at a Buddhist nunnery. Visit Jokhang temple, considered the holiest temple in tibetan Buddhism. witness a lively debate among monks at Sera Monastery. Unwind with a meditation class led by a monk.

Picnic amid the stunning beauty of Yamdrok Yumtso Lake. Stroll through Norbulingka, the splendid former summer palace of the Dalai Lama. See the gigantic gilded statue of Maitreya Buddha at tashilhunpo Monastery.

Five days from $12,499; departures on Oct. 7 or 14; combinable with a Silver Shadow cruise departing Sep. 28 or Oct. 14.

u MONGOLIA: Echoes of Genghis Khan

Visit with one of the last remaining groups of reindeer herders, the tsaatan community of Northern Mongolia. Marvel at the beauty of Lake Khuvsgul. Learn about the culture of the Kazakh people and witness their ancient tradition of hunting with golden eagles. At the Naadam Festival (Three Games of Men), observe an ancient spectacle of horse racing, archery and wrestling, valued as sports of strength, wisdom and courage.

Six or seven days from $29,199; departures on May 2 or 10; combinable with a Silver Shadow cruise departing Apr. 25 or May 10.

u BOLIVIA: A Short Walk onto Another Universe Stay at the bottom of ice-capped Sajama, Bolivia’s highest peak. Explore volcanoes, hot springs and 3,000-year-old plants. Visit Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat, and stay in a unique luxury camp of geodesic dome tents. Discover the small village of tahua, at the foot of the tunupa Volcano, then hike to the cave of the Coquesa mummies and learn about their history. Relish stunning vistas on a drive through Los Flamencos nature reserve before indulging in the luxuries of the Alto Atacama Desert Lodge and Spa. Eight or ten days from $24,499; departures on Oct. 17 or 26; combinable with Silver Cloud expeditions departing on Oct. 15 or 26.

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FIND YOUR MUSE

INTRODUCING SILVER MUSE With less than 300 suites, Silver Muse is the epitome of Silversea excellence.

A small, intimate ship with uncompromised levels of service, comfort, design and accommodation, offering tailor-made experiences to last a lifetime. From tranquil niches and observation areas to an unprecedented spacious pool deck, outdoor lounges and three open-air restaurants, our tailor-made outdoor spaces have been conceived so that time spent aboard is most definitely, time well spent .

Intimate Ship • Ocean-view Suites • Butler Service • Complimentary Beverages • Menu by Relais & Châteaux • Included Gratuities

For more information or to book, please see your Travel Professional, Call Silversea on 0800 701 427 or visit silversea.com 54 LUXURY LIVING

Bvlgari © Bath Amenities • Pratesi © Fine Bed Linens • Spacious Walk-In Wardrobes • Pillow Menu • Complimentary WiFi

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WINTER WONDERLANDS

If you are a fan of the jetset lifestyle and love to travel and enjoy all the pleasures that winter has to offer than a ski resort is the place to be seen.

These winter hot spots are surrounded by luxury and elegance, creating a very comfortable ambiance for all those who visit. If taking to the slopes is not your thing than don’t despair as these stylish resorts offer so much more than just snow!!

Prepared to be pampered and spoiled...

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TREBLE CONE NEW ZEALAND This is one of the newest and hottest ski resorts of the world, since it first opened in 1976. If you visit this destination, you will find Oakridge Pool & Spa resort. This resort is an amazing place to relax. If you visit this place, you will be pampered and spoiled from head to toe. It is uniquely designed with some 70’ retro dazzle, it contains 189 deluxe rooms and a restaurant & bar on site.

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ASPEN, COLORADO The quintessential destination for the rich and famous, Aspen oozes glamour and grandeur and is magnificent and luxurious in every way.

Four ski mountains make up the terrain for the world-renowned Aspen Snowmass resort. Aspen Mountain, locally referred to as Ajax, rises up directly from downtown, bringing a whole new meaning to ski-in/ski-out. Buttermilk Mountain, home of the Aspen X Games, is a kids’ and beginners’ paradise. Aspen Highlands boasts the legendary Highland Bowl, and Snowmass offers the largest acreage and diversity by having something for everyone.

Aspen’s beautiful scenery and open space also lends itself well to other types of winter recreation, such as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, fly-fishing and even hotair ballooning. After a hard day of play Aspen also lives up to its legendary après ski scene, with some of the finest world-class restaurants on hand.

The St. Regis hotel located at the foot of the Aspen Mountain is the place to sit and watch stars new and old, with its hallways and lobby decorated with pricy art master pieces, it comprises of 179 luxury rooms and suites. Featuring a heated outdoor swimming pool that is just perfect for a naughty afterhours skinny dip, a Remede Spa where you can relax and rejuvenate with a number of specialized treatments, an in-house restaurant run by acclaimed chef Todd English, and 20,000 square feet of functional space should you decide to throw your own little après-ski soiree, the hotel caters to every starlets whim.

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VAIL, COLORADO When you think about Colorado and winter, you immediately think of Aspen. But, this may surprise you, Aspen is not the only exclusive place to ski in this area. You can also enjoy yourself in Vail. Coveted as one of the largest ski resorts in the world with more than 5,200 acres of developed ski and snowboard terrain, seven legendary Back Bowls spanning seven miles, and the most groomed terrain on the planet, Vail has been an extraordinary winter vacation destination for passionate skiers and snowboarders for more than 50 years.

With its location in the Rocky Mountains, Vail is a unique destination for a ski vacation. First time visitors should head for the Vail Cascade Resort and Spa, since this place has had a 20 million dollar refurbishment, it offers amazing facilities.

We need to warn you, there is a chance, after visiting this amazing luxury place you may never want return back home again.

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COURCHEVEL, FRANCE Located in the Trois Vallees near the Italian border, Courchevel is Europe’s top ski resort and the largest linked ski resort in the world -- and if it was good enough for the late Princess Diana, then it’s certainly good enough for the rest of us!

Courchevel’s ski area comprises 5 villages linked by ski lifts and shuttle buses offering over 1,001 different landscapes, ranging from forests to narrow corridors and wide open spaces, with high altitudes and perfectly positioned slopes.

While it’s packed with gorgeous places to hunker down, the best hotel of the bunch has to be the famed Le Chabichou: a picturesque gastronomic chalet hotel that looks like something straight out of The Sound of Music, as well as offering 42 cosy rooms with spectacular views it is also home to the hotel’s two Michelin-starred restaurants. Le Chabichou offers Old World European elegance at its very finest whilst still located just minutes away from the village of Courcheval 1850 and the hustle and bustle of French mountain life.

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WHISTLER BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA One of the most cosmopolitan and challenging ski resorts and widely regarded as one of the world’s number one ski resort. The resorts reputation as a premium destination is solidified by its world breaking PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola which links Whistler and its neighbouring mountain Blackcomb offering skiers over 200 marked runs, 16 alpine bowls and a terrain of over 8,171 acres.

For those looking to escape the slopes the sprawling ski town of Whistler situated just 90 minutes from Vancouver, offers a winter escape like no other. You should take the opportunity to stay in the amazing Adara Whistler Hotel – the first boutique hotel in this town – which comprises of 41 amazingly designed rooms, outdoor heated pools and Jacuzzi. As you soak up the stylish ambiance in your room, have food brought up from the divine Bearfoot Bistro or sip on expertly made cocktails at The Mix by Ric’s and relish in the unque mountain culture and friendly atmosphere

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ST. MORITZ, SWITZERLAND St. Moritz is more than just a holiday resort. It’s the birthplace of Alpine winter tourism. What is it about Switzerland and luxury that just goes so well in combination?

Located on the shore of and ice cold lake in Engradine Valley, St. Moritz is a luxury ski paradise. This place has it all – from amazing ski slopes, designer shops, amazingly delicious food. Only problem is, if we may call it that, you need to book your stay months in advance.

For winter sports enthusiasts there are 350 kilometres of pistes with a state-of-the-art infrastructure in the surrounding area. St. Moritz’s ‘house mountain’, the Corviglia, boasts the steepest start slope in Switzerland with the Piz Nair Wall’s 100 per cent vertiginous drop. For winter hikers there are 150 km of winter walking trails and for cross-country skiers there is a track network of about 200 km. The snowboard fun park, curling and altitude training are just some of the other winter sports facilities.

Extremely popular for those who want to indulge in its luxury offerings, St Moritz is also host to the prestigious St. Moritz Polo World Cup on Snow, which attracts over 15,000 spectators every January For those looking to indulge the Badrutt Palace Hotel, offers facilities including restaurants, a private ski school, cinema, disco, Daniela Steiner Spa, and a driving range, to name but a few is a favoured choice. You never need to step foot outside -- unless, of course, you actually did intend to ski!!

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BAD GASTEIN, AUSTRIA This prestigious Austrian ski destination isn’t as widely known or internationally recognised as some of the more modern resorts. Located 3.281 feet above sea level, in the middle of a National Park, the resort offers amazing natural landscape and views and was host to the Alpine Ski World Championship in 1958. Famous for its thermal baths this much loved old spa town ski destinations is a firm favourite for those who love traditional ski and spa resorts.

Laid out in a compact horseshoe on steep slopes with 86 km of slopes and 1.3 km of ski routes . The winter sports area is situated between the elevations of 860 and 2,300 m.

If you’re looking for a place to relax and rest after skiing, the Hotel Dorf Gruner Baum offers an amazing ambiance and the famous Austrian hospitality. Many fantastic amenities await you there all you need to do is unpack your bags and relax

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Travel Trends for The year ahead The rise in online travel companies such as TripAdvisor, Expedia and Orbitz has changed the face of travel, now all one requires is an internet connection at the click of a button we can search the internet for that perfect holiday or city break, research it, book it and pay for it all in a matter of seconds and from the comfort of our living rooms.

u But has removing the travel agent really made our holiday experiences better? Some would say no, and this is why today vacation planning is changing and travel advisers are once again in high demand. Sick of reading about other people’s experiences and hang up’s travellers today want trusted and reliable resources to curate extraordinary vacations, plus in most cases travel advisers are privy to the hottest new properties, up-and-coming destinations around the globe and the latest travel trends. In short travel adviser is not a thing of the past, but rather a facilitator to unique and rewarding travel experiences.

With this in mind, we highlight the hottest new travel trends to watch out for in 2018, according to some of the world’s leading luxury travel experts.

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MuLTigEnERATionAL VAcATions Traveling around the world with parents, siblings, kids, grandkids, and assorted family members is a way of enriching a shared travel experience and reconnecting with one another. “Skip-gen� another industry term being buffeted around is also set to be a holiday trend for the coming years it involves grandparents, the baby boomers taking grandchildren on epic holidays often to mark milestones in life whilst leaving parents behind.

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MiLLEnniAL cRuisEs Years ago taking a cruise was what people of retirement age anyone under the age of 60 wouldn’t have been seen dead on a cruise ship, but today the millennial pound is strong and cruise companies are falling over themselves to attract this young group of people – after all from a financial point of view this makes complete sense hook um whilst their young and benefit from years of repeat business!

U by Uniworld (www.ubyuniworld.com) has announced it will be launching the “first all-millennial cruise line”with amenities and services geared strictly toward 21- to 45-year-olds. Focused on experiential travel, Uniworld has modernised two l20- passenger ships aptly named A and B and described as boutique hotels on water, with craft coffees, rooftop lounges, yoga studios, nightclubs, and of course free wifi is set to cruise some of Europe’s most hip waterways with destination trips through Paris, Germany the Danube and Amsterdam.

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TRAnsfoRMATionAL TRAVEL An upgrade to the travel trend of “experiential travel” transformational travel is billed as pushing the boundaries of our comfort zones and fundamentally changing our perception of ourselves, our place in the world and those who inhibit it in a nutshell it is a travel experience that empowers people to make meaningful, lasting changes in their life but seeking out and understanding other cultures and transferring them into their present way of life.

Leading this new trend is the newly formed Transformational Travel Collaborative or TTC, (www. transformational.travel) an organization that encourages both travellers billed as Hero’s and travel outfitters, Heralds, with tools to encourage personal and professional growth.

From 2018 adventures to far flung destinations such as Patagonia or Machu Picchu or adventures discovering the worlds Dolomites will be unveiled.

Other travel companies leading the way in this new travel trend are Natural Habitat Adventures (www.nathab.com), Pure Life Experiences (www.purelifeexperiences.com ) and Butterfield & Robinson (www.butterfield.com).

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susTAinAbLE TouRisM Sustainability has been a buzzword across all industries for a few years now. When people think about sustainability in travel they often only think about the green footprint aspect, but actually it goes much deeper than that it is exploration supporting the protection of cultural and natural heritage, along with natural wonders of the world Endangered destinations are also seeing a surge. The polar regions of Antarctica and the Arctic are facing climate change threats as are Australia’s Great Barrier Reef - yet their fragile shift means more people want to visit before it is too late - highlighting the catch-22 of this particular tourism trend.

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ExTREME TRips Bored with lying on a beach soaking up the sun’s rays, todays travellers is seeking adventure and adrenaline fuelled experiences ones that preferably will also look good on the pages of Instagram!

Think Scad diving into a cooling water tower in Soweto, South Africa, Bungee jumping into an active volcano in Chile or kayaking on the White Nile.

One of the fastest growing segments of the travel industry today, extreme tourism analyst forecast the global adventure tourism market to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 45.99% until 2020.

There are several travel companies leading the way in this industry G Adventures one of the top adventure travel companies for more than 25 years (www.gadventures.com ) offers many unique and affordable trips with over 1200 itineraries to all seven continents. Geographic Expedition (www. geoex.com) offers a portfolio of adventurous overland tours, treks, walks, and expeditionary voyages to the world’s most astonishing places and Intrepid Travel (www.intrepidtravel.com) who focus on taking small groups of travellers off the beaten track to more than 90 destinations around the globe.

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bREAkup bREAks Celebrations such as honeymoons, weddings and anniversaries have traditionally been times that people have marked with travel. Now, more travel agencies and resorts are seeing people planning trips, especially wellness breaks, during times of grief, after a divorce, or when children leave home.

“At least a third of our guests visit when they are going through a difficult situation,” says Alejandro Bataller Pineda, vice president of SHA Wellness Clinic in Alicante (shawellnessclinic.com). “It might be due to a breakup or a situation that creates stress or anxiety.” More, it seems, are tapping into the transformative power of travel to help them through difficult times.

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DISCOVERED BY AND APPRECIATED

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DAVIDOFF NICARAGUA - TO DISCOVER THEM YOURSELF WILL NOT TAKE YOU ON SUCH AN EXOTIC JOURNEY - BUT THE TASTE UNDOUBTEDLY WILL.

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Travel News BUBBLICIOUS GLAMPING

Nestled in a forested area between Bordeaux and Saint Emilion, “Les Bulles de Bordeaux” translated as “The Bubbles of Bordeaux” is a new eco-friendly addition to the glamping experiences A play on the expression “living in a bubble” and referencing its locations within the heart of France’s wine country the luxury glamping pods which are named after the local wines and grapes of the region; Cabernet, Merlot, Muscadelle, Verdot and Semillon offer independent self-contained tents which are built on beautifully presented wooden decks, providing all the creature comforts one would need for an evening of stargazing, including full-sized beds, showers and toilets, heating, electricity and lighting with some even offering Jacuzzis!

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The beautiful surroundings will appeal to the more affluent international crowd who relish a coveted lifestyle destination and guests can choose between completely transparent and semi-transparent tents. Gourmet meals featuring all the French delicacies – foie gras, duck confit, wine and cheese are also provided in this glamping experience with delivery directly to the pod.

“The Bubbles of Bordeaux” is the latest in a string of spherical glamping experiences to open in France and the world over with experiences also offered in Pont-Saint-Esprit in the South of France, Nellim Wilderness Hotel in northern Finland, where guests can watch the Northern Lights under glass-domed cabins and in Reykjavik, Iceland, where guests can also experience the aurora borealis at the Bubble Lodge.

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WINE AND DINE ACROSS EUROPE IN VINTAGE STYLE ABOARD THE CHAMPAGNE EXPRESS Golden Eagle Luxury Trains have for 2018, unveiled an exclusive journey between the classical cities of Paris and Venice, this 12-day tour offers remarkable scenery, unforgettable experiences and an enriching exploration of some of Europe’s most fascinating cities Combining exclusive tastings at Grand Marques champagne houses and some of the most prestigious wine cellars, this incredible rail journey is bound to satisfy your senses.

The itinerary will hit many of the same wineries and regions that founder (and former wine merchant) Tim Littler did on the rail trip that inspired him to found the company in 1988. Though the westbound and eastbound journeys offer slightly different itineraries, both make their way through some of the biggest wine-producing regions in France, Germany, Switzerland, and Italy, making stops at Michelin-starred restaurants and breath-taking palaces along the way.

Both itineraries will take place from October 2018 with tickets priced from $12,495 a person for Heritage Class travel, $19,995 for Deluxe Class and $23,995 for Superior Deluxe Class.

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For more information visit : www.goldeneagleluxurytrains.com 75

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22 – 27 March 2018

BASELWORLD.COM

Be there when the world’s most important watch and jewellery brands present their latest innovations and creations.

BASELWORLD: THE PREMIERE SHOW

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A NEW JEWEL TO THE BULGARI HOTELS & RESORTS LUXURY HOSPITALITY COLLECTION The new Bulgari Hotel Beijing referred to as an ‘urban resort’, is located in the heart of the exclusive Embassy District, in China’s capital city. Blending art with nature, the Hotel is situated adjacent to the Genesis Art Foundation, and surrounded by lush, sculpted gardens.

The fourth addition to the Bulgari brand of hotels, the Bulgari Hotel Beijing, designed by the renowned Architectural firm Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel, is an intimate oasis where the discerning traveler and the Beijing’s sophisticated elite may encounter nature and art. With lush gardens extending to the riverside, and walkways alongside it, the hotel’s 119 Rooms and Suites, including the Bulgari Suite, are complemented by a 1500-square-metre BVLGARI SPA, 25-metre pool, private park, Il Ristorante, Il Bar, and a BVLGARI ballroom, establishing a new benchmark for enlightened luxury living and personalized services.

Overlooking Beijing’s Embassy District buildings – typically only a few storeys high – the view from The Bulgari Hotel Beijing is uninterrupted and entirely dramatic.

The sculpted gardens that surround the property incorporate various landscape concepts, creating an oasis of green serenity within an urban city capital. Designed by the renowned landscape designer Enzo Enea, the river acts as the most important source of inspiration, giving the property its distinction – and the entire landscaping unfolds from it. From the riverside walkway, the guests’ experience ripples inward toward the hotel, allowing for quiet moments and relaxing panoramas.

Prices start from 2,599 CNY per night for a standard room to 42,788 CNY per night for a Terrace Suite

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DRIPPING IN GOLD If you’re looking for a glamourous spa experience than the St. Regis Lhasa Resort is one of the world’s most decadent retreats. Situated in the eastern part of Lhasa, The St. Regis Lhasa Resort is billed as being in the highest cities in the world sitting some 3,680 meters above sea level.

As one would expect the150 guest room and 12 villa resort is stunning with 20-foot lobby ceilings, huge exposed beams, locally woven carpets, and paintings of Tibetan nomads adorning the walls.

But the piece de resistance is the Gold Energy Pool, a bejeweled 200-square meter pool with a constant water temperature of 28-32°, and views of the lake and the Himalaya Palace is the ideal indulgent treat for anyone with a thing for bling.

Prices start from 1,045 CNY per night for a standard room to 3,900 CNY per night for a Suite.

Prices in on request for The Everest and Tubo Suite

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AboARd ThE WoRLd’s GREATEsT TRAin JouRnEy

The ORienT eXpRess u There’s an old Chinese proverb that says ‘the journey is the reward’ which is not always easy to appreciate in these poor speedy boarding, no frills airline days, but if you let the train take the strain you’ll rediscover the art of luxury travel.

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“Trains are wonderful… to travel by train is to see nature and human beings, towns… and rivers, in fact, to see life’ – AGATHA CHRISTIE Synonymous with luxury rail travel is of course the Orient Express - the very name carries an aura of glamour and mystery. Van Helsing rode it to his battle with Dracula, James Bond romanced a beautiful Russian aboard it and Agatha Christie set one of the best-known murders in literary history aboard it.

Founded by Georges Nagelmackers in 1876, the original Orient Express was a byword for luxurious, romantic and mysterious long-distance international train travel qualities it still retains today. The service ran between Paris and Istanbul providing luxury sleeping and dining car services something unheard of at that time, soap was placed by the washbasins and exquisite wines and cuisine were available, it was these luxuries that attracted it as a favoured method of travel for kings, celebrities and criminals alike.

The onset of World War I in 1914 saw the Orient Express services temporarily suspended until the end of hostilities in 1918, when in 1919 the opening of the Simplon Tunnel allowed the introduction of a more southerly route via Milan, Venice and Trieste.

With more twists and turns that an Agatha Christie novel, the Orient-Express service continued to run, but on the 12th December 2009, EuroNight train number 469 ‘Orient Express’ left Strasbourg for its final overnight run to Vienna, and on 13th December the celebrated name ‘Orient Express’ disappeared forever from the official European timetables after 126 years of service.

But how can that be you wonder there is still an Orient Express train service? Well today the Orient Express is in fact the privately run ‘Venice Simplon Orient Express’ (VSOE), who also operate the equally luxurious Eastern & Oriental Express from Singapore to Bangkok, the Royal Scotsman cruise train and the PeruRail trains to Machu Picchu.

For a train steeped in history, classic routes on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express take in such fabled European cities as London, Paris, Venice, Berlin, Prague and Vienna roughly once a week between March & November, but it also runs occasional trips to Rome, Krakow, Budapest and even Istanbul (once a year, in August).

The classic journey from London to Venice ( or vice versa) takes 24 hours and costs around £1,920 per person based on two sharing a double cabin and includes all table d’hote meals one way. A classic one night journey from London to Venice, in a Grand Suite is priced at £5,500 per person.

The sleeping cars have 1 and 2 bedroom compartments that convert into a private sitting room for daytime use. The carriages are adorned with authentic period features like Lailique Crystals and Chinese art and there is also a bar, complete with a grand piano to add that touch of nostalgia The Venice Simplon Orient Express is actually two trains, a historic chocolate-and-cream British Pullman train which departs from London to Folkestone and a Continental royal-blue train with brass insignia of classic 1920s sleeping cars, from Calais to Paris & Venice.

Although it is a ‘resumption’ of the Orient Express more in spirit than in terms of historical accuracy (for example, there were no bar cars with pianos in the 1930s!), the VSOE has superbly-restored pre-war carriages, top-class food and service, and it has now become an institution in its own right epitomising the opulence and elegance of the Golden Age of travel.

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2018 VENICE SIMPLON ORIENT EXPRESS SPECIAL OFFER

5 night / 6 day Venice Simplon Orient Express holiday includes First Class rail from London to Venice with an overnight stay with bed and breakfast in a deluxe lake view room at the Grand Hotel Suisse Majestic (4 star superior) in Montreux and 3 nights’ bed and breakfast in a twin/double room at the Hotel Ai Mori d’Oriente (4 star) in Venice and a journey on the legendary Venice Simplon Orient Express from Venice to London.

Costs from £2,650 per person based on 2 people travelling together.

Availability: (2018) 31st March, 10th April, 14th April & 21st April Booking Information: Orient-Express UK reservations www.vsoe.com | www.belmond.com 83

SWAROVSKI.COM

Miranda Kerr

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DISCOVER YOUR BOUNDARIES AROUND THE WORLD IN 80 DAYS WITH THE PORSCHE WORLD EXPEDITION 2018

No matter how often, no matter how much. You simply can’t get enough of some things in life: heart-stopping excitement, a thirst for adventure and thrilling journeys.

And where would be better suited to all this than the driver’s seat of a Porsche? Where else would you enter a world full of adrenaline, while leaving the beaten track and pushing the boundaries. Maybe even your own.

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This one-off Porsche World Expedition provides exactly that. And much more besides: unique experiences and a new view of the world – through the windscreen of a Cayenne, driven by a huge amount of horse power. Fast driving, challenging routes and certainly no standing still. Day after day, you will cover hundreds of kilometres – on six continents and in over 20 countries. Fulfil your bucket list while demonstrating maximum performance – in any terrain.

The Porsche World Expedition is a new experience format, combining extreme driving, maximum performance and intense challenges throughout the world. And pushing the boundaries for participants and vehicles alike. No two days are the same: you will enjoy a range of driving and nature experiences, along with a variety of accommodation – from desert camps to exceptional luxury hotels. And the Porsche Experience crew is always close at hand, to monitor the live progress of all the teams and quickly respond in an emergency.

In the form of a traditional rally, you will explore the six continents during our various bookable expeditions. And you won’t be alone: every participant drives the Cayenne provided as part of a team.

It’s up to you whether you assemble your own team or join an international one.

What attributes do you need? Team spirit, stamina and the desire to win. Because every stage must be accurately completed within a certain timeframe – although the route planning is down to you.

You drive independently of the other teams and can structure each day individually. With the help of a tablet and the unique Porsche World Expedition map app, you can also navigate your Cayenne to the world’s remotest locations. All the teams come together to eat lunch and dinner, which can sometimes also be an adventure.

Over all the days and kilometres, we naturally remain true to our motto: every second counts. As well as exact arrival times and stage evaluations, you can also collect bonus seconds that will help you clinch stage victory. To do this, you can produce photos, videos, streams and tweets that are representative of each stage, which you can then post from your team tablet. So you will not only be travelling the world, but also be well connected with it at any time.

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Together with a strictly limited number of participants, you will embark on a journey around the world. And perhaps of self-discovery. A unique adventure that you will never forget. Just like the contacts that you will make. Because what unites people more than a shared passion?

Over 30,000 kilometres, spread over six bookable expeditions, will not only test the performance of the Cayenne, but also your driving skills and stamina. Because driving pleasure knows no boundaries.

Australia – This spectacular journey Down Under shows that the happy medium is not always a compromise. Follow the footsteps of the Aborigines – over 5,000 kilometres, from the calm and blue coast in the east, through the endless expanse and most remote places of the world to the outback, to be welcomed again by the ocean view in Perth.

Europe – Take a charter flight to the spectacular midnight sun at the North Cape, and pass through picturesque Scandinavian landscapes, idyllic European villages and arrive at the home of Porsche in Zuffenhausen. Continue the adventure to the high altitude and “dolce vita” of Italy, before being rewarded with a phenomenal view of Mont Blanc.

Africa – Start a vivid and diverse journey through the raw and wild continent in Johannesburg and head onwards through Botswana and Zambia towards the jungle of Tanzania – to witness the great migration of millions of animals and face the wilderness of the untouched land.

Central America – From the Yucatan Peninsula to the steaming jungles of Panama, experience the changing landscapes from the cockpit. Our adventure starts in the Mayan heartland, snakes through the jungles of Belize, smoking volcanoes of Guatemala, charming colonial towns of Nicaragua, touches wildlife in Costa Rica, and the incredible coastline all the way to the Panama Canal. 8 countries from your bucket list!

South America – Over several thousand kilometres from Peru to Argentina, you will experience what happens when endorphins dance the tango. Sand dunes, salt plains, gravel roads, breath taking mountain passes – the pampas and high altitudes bring you to the limit, yet will prove there is still much to reach for.

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South East Asia – An expedition that invites to indulge the soul – travelling in a dynamic Porsche.

Travel through time from Bangkok passing Laos, historical sites, palaces, temples, old kingdoms all the way to the Himalayas and the Chinese Shangri-La. In short: be it across snow, sand, tarmac, gravel or desert, all the expeditions have one thing in common: spectacular, challenging stretches and adrenaline-fuelled driving pleasure – under extreme conditions.

You see, the Porsche World Expedition is for anyone who loves the extreme and meets every challenge. For anyone seeking adventure yet unwilling to take risks. For anyone who is happy to change their perspective and view the world through different eyes. And for anyone who regards the end of one adventure merely as the start of the next. A thirst for adventure simply cannot be quenched. But must be indulged. Kilometre after kilometre after kilometre.

Booking details and exact travel dates can be found on the Porsche AG homepage at www.porsche.com/world-expedition 89

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IVING

LIVING Luxury is in the eye of the beholder, but when it comes to a luxurious lifestyle, we like to think that we know a thing or two. Our responsibility is to connect our readers with the world’s most prestigious companies and events, such as the Cannes Film Festival, Art Basel and of course, the Monaco Yacht Show. We are unashamedly luxurious and believe life is far too short to not enjoy the finer things in life.

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The ArTisAn GunmAkers

With the shooting season well underway only the very best shotgun will do and who else than that favoured by royalty and aptly called the ‘King of gun makers’ than James Purdey and sons

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James Purdey & Sons has been England’s authority on sporting pursuits for over two centuries, and is a name universally respected the world over as a maker of the world’s finest quality guns.

u Established by James Purdey in 1814, Purdey is one of the most respected and luxurious companies in the world. Patronised by European royalty and nobility, they could claim to have built guns for all nine kings attending King Edward VII’s funeral in 1910 and are holders of no less than three Royal Warrants.

Since its creation Purdey has played a significant role in the history of gunmaking and are holders of a number of key patents. Today the firm still continues to operate from its central London location of 57-58 South Audley House, Mayfair a building it has resided in since 1883. The workshop has now relocated to an external premise with the building now the showroom for a dedicated clothing and accessories section on the shop floor, with the main gun room now located exclusively in the building’s historic Long Room, which once featured a “well” for looking down into the firm’s workshop below.

With a 50-strong workforce, Purdey’s bespoke guns are lovingly crafted by its gunsmiths in a process not changed much in 200 years in fact each Purdey craftsman’s still crafts their own tools by hand at the beginning of their five-year apprenticeships before using them to fashion the world’s finest firearms.

To create a Purdey gun it takes approximately two years (12,000 hours) per model. Indeed, the process is so careful and precise that Purdey clients are actively encouraged to be part of the procedure so they can understand the complexity of building a shotgun.

When making a pair of guns, seven different craftsmen will have worked on them from; barrelmaker, actioner, lockmaker, ejector man, stocker, engraver and finisher.

The process begins with a visit to the West London Shooting Ground, where Purdey has been fitting its customers since the 1930s. Various measurements are taken while the buyer uses a “try-gun” with an articulated and fully adjustable stock. Back at Audley House a selection of high-grade walnut wood pieces which will become your gun’s stock are selected. Barrels and other hardware are then machined by hand, the whole is assembled and finally the gun is adorned with the engraving of your choice. Some keep this engraving classic, with a rose and scroll, and others let their imagination run wild, with dogs, a favourite patch of countryside or a likeness of their wife.

OWNING A PURDEY Prices start at £78,000 to £150,000 but it’s safe to say a pair of Purdeys is a sound investment for any serious sportsman - The Rolls Royce of guns and a working piece of art.

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THE SEVEn cRAfTS of MAKInG A PuRdEy Barrels: Actions: Ejectors: Locks & triggers: Stocking: Finishing: Engraving:

Shaping of the tubes through which cartridges will be fired Making the part that holds the moving components in place Building the part of the gun that expels spent cartridges crafting the locking and firing mechanisms Shaping and treating the wooden end, behind the trigger Assembling all the components carving the customer’s chosen motif onto the design

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The uLTimATe ACCessOrY FOR COUNTRYSIDE PURSUITS

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Bentley has created the ultimate luxury SuV accessory for sporting countryside pursuits: the Bentayga field Sports by Mulliner.

Blending two iconic luxury British brands – Mulliner, Bentley’s personal commissioning division, and Purdey, manufacturers of the world’s finest shotguns –Bentley have designed the perfect vehicle for the field sports enthusiasts. The pairing is a natural fit, as Bentley and Purdey share a passion for painstaking attention to detail and exquisite craftsmanship. The result is a one-off SuV designed to take occupants to the finest sporting events in total luxury, with all the accessories required for the perfect rural adventure.

Inside the one-off Bentayga field Sports by Mulliner, a twin-compartment sliding stowage unit forms the basis of the bespoke kit. Within this tray – located in the Bentayga’s spacious boot – there are tailored sections for the transportation of cartridges, drinks, binoculars and protective wear. The handcrafted kit also includes a beautifully made humidor and is lockable for extra security.

Between the rear seats sits an exquisite, leather-trimmed stowage case for up to two guns. for the discerning field sports enthusiast, an exquisite Purdey bag can be specified containing a waistcoat, waterproof cape, gaiters, field coat, shoes and an overnight bag.

Inspired by Purdey and classic countryside pursuits, Mulliner has used the finest authentic materials – and paid attention to every detail – to create this unique accessory for the rural sporting life.

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Powerful, individual and exquisite in equal measure, the Bentayga is for those who demand luxury without restriction for more information visit www.bentleymotors.com 97

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London on-WateR RetURns to IconIc st KathaRIne docKs u 10th - 12th May 2018

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A stone’s throw from Tower Bridge and The Tower of London, St. Katharine Docks, central London’s only marina, is hosting London On-Water, London’s No.1 floating yachting and boating festival, where yachts and boats can be seen and experienced in their natural element - on the water!

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London On-Water returns for its fourth year over four days and will present yachts and boats from luxury yachts to RIBs and everything in-between. Several fantastic new features - including a new floating village, a Supercar Showcase, the EcoLondon summit, together with fine cafés and restaurants will ensure luxury meets yachting right in the epicentre of the cosmopolitan city of London.

The fantastic main feature of London On-Water 2018 will be the magnificent display of the latest luxury yachts and boats for sale, both motor and sail, from the world’s top yacht building brands. Each vessel will be available to visitors to view and explore on-board, with luxury yachts and boats to suit every kind of yachting enthusiast, from the occasional weekend sailor to full ocean-going aficionados, plus one or two stunning surprises as well! A delight for every boating enthusiast and even the opportunity to try them out on the water as visitors will be able book a time slot with the exhibitors to take their dream boat for a spin down the Thames during all four days of the Show.

New to the Show in 2018, London On-Water 2018 will feature a fantastic new ‘Floating Village’ plus a ‘Big Screen Lounge & Bar’ where visitors can relax while enjoying refreshments and take part in some of the many sectors available to them.

Hugely popular last year and now in the Floating Village, the ‘Big Screen Lounge & Bar’ will stage the 3-Day Big-Screen SUMMIT with presentations from experts from the main sectors represented at the Show, including Yacht Charter & Sailing Holidays, Custom Yacht Ownership and Management and Eco-London products for a cleaner planet.

Another new feature to this year’s event is a dedicated part of the Show designed to show off the best small boats and water-sport craft available to buy. From traditional daysailers to fast dinghies, tenders, jetskis and paddleboards, this is a great place to see the latest watersports gear on land.

A hugely popular part of London On-Water over the past three years, the Supercar, New Car & Superbike Showcase will take up a much larger area of Marble Quay.

Located immediately in front of the historic ‘Dicken’s Inn’, the New Cars & Supercars will be joined by some sensational Motor Bikes from a number of the UK’s top motor bike dealers, plus eco-friendly City Bikes (Electric Bikes). With live music being played throughout the day, on a stage alongside, this will be a fabulous place for car and bike enthusiasts to enjoy the day.

Having undergone a careful refurbishment, the historic waterside haven, St. Katharine Docks is the perfect place to take in all the wonderful yachts and boats at London On-Water. Visitors will also be able to enjoy St Katharine Docks’ wide selection of restaurants, bars and pubs offering a tantalising selection of food and beverages, an excuse to venture into the city for an escape into a yacht haven. Enjoy drinks at the relaxing ‘Dream Yacht Charter Bar’ a pontoon bar in the Central Basin. With sunshine reflecting off the water and Tower Bridge as a backdrop, what could be better?

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FALL IN LOVE WITH

LE LOUVRE AbU DhAbi

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More than a decade in the making and at a cost reported to be worth $1.1billion the Louvre Abu Dhabi has opened its doors to the world aimed at bringing together a cultural collaboration of unparalleled scope between both France & the United Arab Emirates.

The first museum of its kind in the Arab region with a vision of offering a new perspective on the history of art in a globalised world. u

AN AMBITIOUS PROJECT: Built on Saadiyat Island (the island of happiness), a natural 27-km² island the size of a third of Paris, The Louvre Abu Dhabi is the first of three museums to open on Saadiyat Island, where the UAE plans to launch the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, designed by Frank Gehry, and Norman Foster’s Zayed National Museum aimed at transforming the art and cultural scene in the Middle East.

THE LOUVRE ABU DHABI: A MASTERFUL ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN Designed by Pritzker Architecture Prize winner Jean Nouvel, the design offers visitors a high-impact architectural and museum experience that fosters dialogue between cultures. Jean Nouvel wanted his building to have “a form that matches its function as a sanctuary for the most valuable works of art.”

A dome of 180 meters in diameter (the same size as the Louvre’s Cour Carrée) covers two thirds of the museum, providing shade and reducing energy consumption. Echoing the mosque, mausoleum, caravanserai, and madrasa, its shape is not bound by any literal inspiration: resting on four points of contact and slightly low-slung, it is the embodiment of a completely contemporary style. Pierced with openings to look like interwoven palm leaves, a traditional roofing material in the Emirates, the dome resembles silver lace.

A geometric template of stars repeated in different sizes and at different angles in a complex arrangement forms eight distinct layers, four external and four internal. Sun filters through the dome like a delicate, protective rain of light, similar to a claustra lattice of mashrabiyas, reflecting the constant interplay of light and shadow in the country.

Below, Jean Nouvel has designed a complex of buildings with harmonious proportions, embraced by the sea. Freely inspired by buried cities and the prototypical Oriental city, a large part of the museum complex is sheltered under the comfort of this shadow. This urban and geometric “medina” of rooms appears like a city neighbourhood, with some thirty buildings visible along a promenade. Rising up to heights of 4–12 m, they each feature a different façade decorated with a variety of piercings, combining unique transitions and passages. The museum city creates a space that plays with the multiple connections between indoor and outdoor, ever-changing and poetic, to kindle curiosity and invite visitors to explore new routes and pathways, guided by the light.

Inspired by the ancient falaj system of Arab engineering, a water channel runs through the museum, making the space into a refreshing oasis that encourages strolling along the waterside.

So-called “passive” design strategies take advantage of the natural shape of the buildings and the properties of the materials selected to improve outdoor conditions. The museum’s roof is perforated to capture daylight without letting in too much sun; light-reflecting materials in pale colours have been used to repel rather than absorb heat; reduced-flow plumbing and water facilities were selected to reduce the building’s demand for drinkable water.

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OVERVIEW OF THE COLLECTION: A UNIQUE MUSEUM The museum is not, in any way, a copy of the French Louvre; it is an individual institution offering its own interpretation of a universal museum, reflecting its era and the local traditions of the country it lies in. Its collection, which will include loans from French institutions (rotated on a ten-year basis), as well as works from its own currently-developing compilation, will be presented in an original manner.

Presented across 6,400 square metres of galleries, the museum’s growing collection includes more than 600 important artworks and artefacts, approximately half of which will be presented for the opening year. It includes ancient archaeological finds, decorative arts, neoclassical sculptures, paintings by modern masters and contemporary installations.

Jean-Luc Martinez, president of the Louvre in Paris, said the new museum was designed “to open up to others, to understand diversity” in “a multipolar world”. It currently has some 300 pieces on loan, including an 1887 self-portrait by Vincent van Gogh and Leonardo da Vinci’s “La Belle Ferronniere”.

Ancient masterpieces from the collection include a Bactrian Princess created in Central Asia at the end of the 3rd millennium BCE, a Grecian sphinx from the 6th century BCE and an Iranian gold bracelet in the shape of a lion.

The main focus however of the collection is on world history and religions. Among the exhibits are an early Koran, a gothic Bible and a Yemenite Torah, facing each other and open at verses carrying the same message.

Highlights from later periods include an ancient astrolabe, part of a display showing the science of cosmography; a red Chinese lacquer chest of drawers produced in France by Bernard II van Risenburgh, which shows the cross - cultural inspirations born from global trade routes; and Giovanni Bellini’s Madonna and Child, representing the emergence of religious art and iconography.

Works such as a Bronze Oba head from the Benin Kingdom and Jacob Jordaens’ The Good Samaritan demonstrate the magnificence of royal courts around the world.

A series of iconic paintings captures the emergence of the modern world, including Gustave Caillebotte’s Game of Bezique, Edouard Manet’s The Gypsy, Paul Gauguin’s Children Wrestling, Osman Hamdi Bey’s A Young Emir Studying, Piet Mondrian’s Composition with Blue, Red, Yellow and Black, René Magritte’s The Subjugated Reader and Pablo Picasso’s Portrait of a Lady.

The museum’s contemporary art collection has nine canvases by Cy Twombly and a monumental sculpture by renowned international artist Ai Weiwei. As part of an ongoing programme of commissions, Jenny Holzer and Giuseppe Penone have created monumental site-specific installations, exhibited under the dome in open air and embedded in Louvre Abu Dhabi’s architecture In addition to its 23 permanent galleries, special exhibition space and Children’s Museum, Louvre Abu Dhabi features a 270- seat auditorium, restaurant, boutique and café

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ENTREPRENEURS CHANGING OUR WORLD FOR THE BETTER One does not learn to be an entrepreneur it is a life choice that one is born with, being am entrepreneur takes grit, self-determination, vision and in most cases selfishness.

It can be a very difficult and at times a lonely path, success doesn’t happen overnight and sadly the harsh reality is, that in their first year 9 out 10 start-ups will fail, but for those few who do succeed the rewards and benefits can be immeasurable.

u Today the most exciting entrepreneurs are those who are challenging and changing the way we will live, work and play in, they play a key role in our economy and our pushing the boundaries to help shape a new and emerging business landscape.

Whilst some entrepreneurs are driven solely on making money for themselves some are motivated by a sense of change a desire and will to make the world better, helping improve others’ lives and helping to build a more sustainable world for the future. Here we take a look at those few...

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YARON GISSIN - FOUNDER OF KALISAYA It was whilst on a three day photography trip in the desert that the idea for KaliPAK was born, with no electrical sockets to recharge their equipment the trip was cancelled and it was this eureka moment that inspired multimedia artist and designer Yaron Gissin to start sketching ideas for a solution for an portable, lightweight and rechargeable solar-powered generator, thus the KaliPAK was born, a highly portable, lightweight companion providing up to 600Wh of energy for outdoor usage and emergencies.

Although the idea grew from a desire to have a convenient power source for recreational travel, the KaliPAK’s debuted with the Israeli Air Force Humanitarian Rescue Mission for Global Disaster Areas in 2013 as a power supply to set up a field hospital in disaster zones.

With environmental disasters occurring all over the world this experience has helped to reveal the KaliPAK’s true value. In a recent interview Gissin explained that the first infrastructure to fail in cases of natural emergency is the electrical grid. The KaliPAK can help to restore power in emergency situations, making it an essential piece of emergency equipment.

According to the developers, when the device is fully charged it can charge a smartphone 100 times over, a laptop between 16 19 times and provide 120 hours of light

SOPHI TRANCHELL - CEO FOR DIvINE CHOCOLATE For the last 15 years, Sophi Tranchell has led the fair trade movement as managing director of Divine Chocolate, a UKbased fairtrade chocolate company that’s 44% owned by Kuapa Kokoo, a farmers’ co-operative in Ghana that produces about 6% of the country’s cocoa harvest.

Describing herself as “still a radical”, Ms Tranchell has stood at the forefront of what she deems “social injustices” ensuring that large corporations don’t profit at the expense of the man on the ground. Inspired by Gordon Roddick, who founded the Body Shop with his wife Anita, Ms Trachell has navigated the Divine Chocolate through the financial crisis of 2008 into a £12million company today.

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JEAN-MARC BORELLO – CEO GROUPE SOS Jean-Marc Borello’s one goal in life is to balance social inequality, by tackling basic social issues, such as housing, health, education, help for the elderly and youth and drug addiction.

Business Week stated in an article that GROUPE SOS may be the largest social enterprise in the world, effecting positive social change for more than 1 million people every year overseeing 53 retirement homes, 8 hospitals, and providing help to over 10,000 children in need every year. The groupe also offers employment training for the unemployed; 75% of which find employment after completing their training.

Jean-Marc Borello is no ordinary CEO, previously a teacher of juvenile delinquents he has also worked for the Interdepartmental Mission for the Fight against Drugs and Drug Addiction (MILDT), and is a private adviser to President Macron on social reform. Often described as the “ Bill Gates of social reform”, he is indeed no capitalist, GROUPE SOS is a non-profit organisation with all profits 100% redistributed, there are no shareholders (shareholder structure stems from the Social Business sector), no dividends, and no ownership of assets.

To date GROUP SOS provides assistance across France and within 54 other countries employing 15,000 people and is expected to cross the € 1 billion mark in turnover this year.

ELON MUSK - CEO SPACE X / TESLA This article would’nt be complete without mentioning the visionary genius and entrepreneurial billionaire who is often compared to Iron Man’s superhero protagonist Tony Stark.

Nearly twenty years after cofounding a company called X.com that would later become PayPal, Elon Musk has launched the electric carmaker Tesla Motors the aerospace manufacturer SpaceX as well as Hyperloop a high-speed transportation system and Solar City a full service solar provider for residential, commercial and governments. He’s also listed as the 38th most powerful person in the world, oh and did I say he’s also worth around $12.5 billion!!

Driven by an overwhelming desire to change the world by utilising clean energy and his fascination in multi-planetary resettlement and space exploration Elon Musk is one of those entrepreneurs who nobody gets or understands. He is a philanthropist who outside of the headlines backs causes such as projects helping children to read in Tanzania or funding projects such as Future of Life Institute (FLI) a program with the goal of making sure AI doesn’t completely overrun our ability to regulate it and end up destroying us all. He has faced bankruptcy, is a shareholders nightmare yet his thirst to propel the human race towards a better, brighter, cleaner future seems plausible.. Simply tell him it can’t be done and he’ll go out of his way to prove you wrong!

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BITCOIN, CURRENCY OF THE FUTURE OR JUST A FAD?

Bitcoin – the virtual banking currency of the internet or ‘cryptocurrency’ has had an eventful time of late recently condemned by the boss of JP Morgan as just “a digital currency fit for drug dealers and murders with no longevity” and now banned by the Chinese and South Korean authorities demand and interest in this unregulated electronic currency has never been higher but what is it? Where do these Bitcoin’s come from? How do you use? And more importantly is it really an investable currency? u Invented less than a decade ago after the financial crash, Bitcoin’s are a form of digital currency that are created by painstaking mathematical computations. Policed by millions of computers via a network in a process called ‘mining’, this decentralised community of people monitor and process electronic transactions using a freely accessible mathematical code. Mined in batches of 50 ‘miners’ are then rewarded with Bitcoins for completing the transaction - thus removing control of one centralized authority.

Unlike today’s standard currency, Bitcoins don’t exist in a tangible form but are stored in a digital wallet, a small personal database that you store on your computer drive, or in the cloud here they can then be exchanged and used in online transactions or exchanged for cash at Bitcoin ATMs increasingly a number of businesses will accept them as forms of payment with Lady Mone, cofounder of underwear brand Ultimo, recently launching a property development in Dubai with prices listed in Bitcoin’s.

The rise in value of Bitcoin’s are also an incentive for the Bitcoin boom, at the start of the year the value of a single Bitcoin was around $1,000 by September the currency had risen to a high of almost $19,000, and it is this massive rise that is attracting investors.

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SO WHY ARE BITCOIN’S SO CONTROVERSIAL? First and foremost it is a peer – peer decentralised currency set up outside of the conventional banking system. Bitcoin accounts can be set up in seconds there is no bureaucracy, no middlemen taking a fee and no questions asked which has led to its association with a community who operate outside of the law. Bitcoin’s are synonymous with those who operate on murky deep websites and online marketplaces such as Silk Road and the Dark Web whose dealing in drugs, money laundering, hacking and criminal acts require a level of anonymity – Bitcoin’s offer this.

Security risks, hacking and theft are another worrying issue, in 2014 Mt Gox the then leading Bitcoin exchange was forced to close following a string of hacks and loss of 850 thousand Bitcoins around $414 million. Although the Bitcoin protocol offers transactional security by virtue of encryption and shared public ledgers, it offers very little storage security and is therefore vulnerable to hacks as a result of malware subsequently, as the digital currency is not backed by any financial government once it’s gone, it’s gone there are no insurance schemes in place to recoup your loses.

INVESTMENT AND REGULATIONS Like the standard stock markets Bitcoin’s values vary daily compared to gold, Bitcoin’s are a self-limiting market because only 21 million total Bitcoins will ever be allowed to exist, currently there are 11 million Bitcoins already mined and in current circulation which amount to approx. two billion dollars.

It is estimated using the current protocol that all 21million Bitcoin’s will be mined by the year 2040.

Bitcoin mining is an incentivised process which involves commanding your computer to compete with other miners in solving complicated mathematical problems to complete, verify and record a transaction known as blockchain. Each Bitcoin math problem (blockchain) has a set of possible 64-digit solutions. The aim is to use your computer to complete the puzzle and if you are the first to do this then you get a Bitcoin reward.

Bitcoin’s are transferred via a peer-to-peer network between individuals or businesses with no middleman taking a percentage. Bitcoin wallets cannot be seized or frozen or audited by banks or law enforcement agencies, they do not have spending and withdrawal limits imposed on them. For all intents: nobody but the owner of the bitcoin wallet decides how their wealth will be managed however if you lose your wallet’s hard drive data or even your wallet password, then your wallet’s contents are gone forever which could result in catastrophic losses.

Believers in Bitcoin say it’s the money of the future a digital alternative no different from a stocks and that it has great investment promise. Non-believers say it’s not an investment because there’s no good way to value it because the price is determined simply by supply and demand and the fact that governments as yet haven’t shut down the digital exchanges furthermore Bitcoin’s only exist on computers as a code if the host server goes down who will pay you?

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INDULGE YOURSELF

A guide to everything that should be on your radar to purchase right now…

u A BeAstly ColleCtion Inspired by his recent Beasts of London collection, these Beast Knives from jeweller Stephen Webster are unlike anything you’ve ever seen in the kitchen before.

The sculptural collection of six knives which cost approx. £25,000 per set was commission by a Scottish client as a sgian-dubh (a single-edged knife used within traditional Highland dress). Using the Japanese Damascus technique, which produces the same effect used to make samurai swords. The bronze handles are carved into the shape of a rooster, a bull, a ram, a boar, a salmon, and zucchini for the vegetable paring knife. ¨The Beast Knives are something I am very excited about, because they are true to our brand DNA but take us to a place we are not familiar with — The kitchen¨ Stephen Webster The set is available exclusively by commission through Stephen Webster stores and Harrods www.stephenwebster.com / www.harrods.com

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DAviDoff AnnounCes yeAr of the Dog limiteD eDition 2018 Following the Year of the Rooster, Davidoff has introduced the next limited edition cigar in their ongoing “Zodiac Series” of cigars. Davidoff Year of the Dog is now available to purchase ahead of the Chinese Year of the Dog, which begins on February 16, 2018.

Year of the Dog Limited Edition 2018 marks the seventh release in Davidoff ’s annual limited edition series. Differing from the elaborate box presentation and vitola from last year’s Year of the Rooster release—which used a 6¾” x 50 Diadema format—the Year of the Dog Limited Edition 2018 offers a more simplistic 7” x 50 “Gran Churchill” size. The cigars have been limited to 9,000 boxes of 10 worldwide, retailing for $39.00 MSRP (per cigar).

For more information visit www.davidoff.com 119

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u

PAying homAge to the worlD’s greAtest Artists

Antonio Canova (1 November 1757 – 13 October 1822) was an Italian sculptor famous for his work in marble. Often regarded as the greatest of the neoclassical artists, his work was inspired by the Baroque and the classical revival, but made more contemporary by dispensing with the melodrama of the former and adding a human element to the latter.

To honour the world’s greatest artists, Montegrappa as part of its Genio Creativo series of pens has released a limited edition collection of 260 fountain pens and 260 rollerball pens, the exact number of years since Canova’s birth. Offered with polished bronze trim, black resin and a pen barrel made in a special marble composite, depicting in miniature his famous sculpture The Graces, or “Le Grazie”.

A further 12 fountain and 12 rollerball pens will be produced with solid 18k gold trim, representing the number of collaborators who worked with Canova.

Recalling the visual presence of Canova’s sculptures, the marble element is naturally grey. According to legend, Canova would pass over the freshly-chiselled, once-white stone with a cloth soaked with water, the same one used to wash the sculpting tools. The stone would absorb the dirt and acquire a more natural look.

Further details paying homage to Canova are the signature clip in the form of a pleated drape with which the artist used to clad his models, while the bronze or gold trim enriched with decorative motifs often crowning antique amphorae. The Genio Creativo Canova Fountain pen is cartridge or converter fed, and the nib is in 18k gold, engraved with the same symbol as the cap top, signifying the heraldic coat of arms of the family.

For more information, visit http www.montegrappa.com 121

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iConiC Design meets extrAorDinAry tAste Since 1933, the Italian coffee experts at illy have been brewing the perfect cup of coffee.

Fast forward to the 1990s when Luca Trazzi created the X1, a museum-worthy example of Italian form and function that instantly became a design icon and set the bar for in-home espresso machines.

To pay homage to this exquisite creation illy have unveiled the new X1 Anniversary edition, paying homage to the original Trazzi design but with some clever updated with enhanced curves, an adjustable cup-rest, a chic, black thermometer gauge, and, most notably, the ability to brew both espresso and drip coffee.

The X1’s steam wand froths milk for cappuccino and latte lovers, while easy-use options include a memory function for cup volume, and automatic descaling and flow-stop programs.

Sold online and at illy caffè bars and shops, illy The X1 Anniversary Edition is available in three finishes: stainless steel, matte black and red. www.illy.com 122 LUXURY LIVING

the worlD’s most exPensive iPhone x CAse Crafted from a solid block of Aerospace Grade 5 Titanium, and priced at ₏660.00 the Advent Aurora is the most expensive iPhone case in the world, created by Singapore-based luxury brand GRAY. Each advent case begins life as a solid block of aerospace grade titanium which is 2.5 times stronger than stainless steel but only half its weight, through a high-precision process guided by precise tooling paths the design is machined into its signature aesthetic, with a series of multi-faceted lines that draw inspiration from supercars while providing an ergonomic fit in the hands overall.

With a focus to bring the future of luxury to the present, the range of Advent Aurora iPhone X casing embrace that modern sense of timeless style and elegance. With such meticulous detailing, the design of each of the Advent Aurora iPhone X case is sleek, light with an ergonomic fit for users yet tough enough to withstand extra shock against drops.

Limited to just 500 units worldwide the Advent Aurora is available in Stealth, Gold and Rose Gold editions, as well as for the iPhone 8, the Advent Aurora is priced at USD $1295.

For more information please visit: www.gray-international.com.

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DINING Exploring the culture of taste and the pleasures of conviviality. Dining reviews some of the world’s finest restaurants, chefs and wines.

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Char anyone? u It is one of the most widely consumed beverages in the world after water, drinking tea plays such a central part in our lives, and is such a universal phenomenon with approximately 6 billion cups consumed daily, that it’s hard to imagine a world without it – and yet, there’s still a lot of mystery and wonder about it with exciting new blends continuously being unveiled.

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Legend has it that tea was discovered by the Chinese Emperor, Shan Nong, in 2737 B.C. The Emperor had a habit of boiling his drinking water. One day while he was in his garden a few tea leaves fell by chance into his boiling water which then gave off a rich, alluring aroma. The Emperor, upon drinking this brew, discovered it to be refreshing and energizing.

He immediately gave the command that tea bushes to be planted in the gardens of his palace. Thus the custom of brewing fresh tea leaves in hot water began and it quickly spread.

From this time onwards, China’s upper class adopted the fashion of presenting packages of tea as highly esteemed gifts and of enjoying drinking tea at social events and within private homes. At around the same time the Chinese tea ceremony began to develop and the tidings of tea began to spread as it reached Japan.

eaST meeTS weST The tea trade was a significant factor in establishing connections between east and west. In China, tea leaves were used as a substitute for coins. In Europe, tea was used as a symbol of high status.

British companies established for the importing tea, such as the “John Company” and “The East India Trade Company” became trade monopolies, unprecedented in size and power, and were ordained by the royal family and empowered to operate in any way necessary to ensure the continuous supply of this popular drink. At the beginning of the 18th century, with the expansion of tea imports to the west and the consequent decrease in its price, tea became a common product enjoyed by all sectors of the population.

20Th ceNTury Tea The advent of the teabag saw a significant rise in the consumption of tea yet this ground-breaking discover was actually discovered by accident. Whilst there is some debate about who invented the very first tea bag, one of the most popular legends has it that, a New York tea merchant by the name of Thomas Sullivan, had a custom of sending tea samples to his customers in small silk pouches, who unwittingly would place the silk packages into hot waters – this trend caught on primarily as it allowed for the drinking of tea without the use of special brewing utensils opening it up to all members of society and mass production.

The journey into the world of tea is an exciting and limitless adventure, today there are thousands of different teas for all types of palettes from white, green, oolong and black whose origins date back thousands of years to the more modern types of herbal, infused blended and scented each with its own individual appearance, taste and aroma with new discoveries unveiling themselves each day.

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Many myths, legends, poems and proverbs surround tea and help maintain its mystique and whilst today most people think of tea, as a flat bleached-paper bag filled with a nondescript black powder true tea – loose leaf tea – is seeing a re-emergence in popularity so for those tea connoisseurs who prefer only top quality teas on the market, here we list the world’s most expensive teas.

u 10. TIeNchI Flower

$170 per 1,000 grams

Known as Panax Notoginseng, which means the beverages that cures, Tienchi may look like tiny broccoli, however it is well known for its curative potential and is said to be the healthiest tea in the world used to treat insomnia, skin diseases, dizziness and have properties to help improve the immune system. Grown in southwest China, Tienchi Flowers are highly prized throughout Asia and has a distinct minty ginseng flavour 9. SIlver TIpS ImperIal Tea

$400 per 1,000 grams

The Silver Tips Imperial Tea is the costliest Darjeeling tea available. The tea is found in Makaibari , India some 5,000 – 8,000 feet above sea-water at the foothills of the Himalayas. Grown on specific farms where it is harvested only on days of the month when there is a full moon. The name Silver Tips derives from the silver colour in the leaves.

8. Gyokuro Tea

$650 per 1,000 grams

In the Chinese language the word Gyokuro means the dews of jewellery. It is mainly harvested in the Uji Japan and then exported to the rest of the world. The speciality of this tea is that it is made without crushing the leaves but by shading the leaves from the sun for two weeks which elevates the amino-acid levels in the leaves giving it its distinct pale green colour 7. poo poo pu-erh

$1,000 per 1,000 grams

The name of this tea is not a coincidence or even a joke, the name says it all. The tea is not the leaves of a specific plant; it is the “poo” of several different insect who live of the tea plant. Originating from the Yunnan region in China the feces of theses insects are handpicked by Farmers with tweezers with the help of magnifying glasses. Considered quite a delicacy, the tea was invented in the 18th century by Chinese doctors to be offered as a gift to Emperor Qianlong.

6. yellow GolD BuDS

$3,000 per 1,000 grams

Harvested in one single area on one mountain in the world, only one day per year, using golden scissors to cut the upper part of the tea tree, Yellow Gold Tea Buds is truly the tea of the Emperors of China. Once harvested the tea leaved are painted with 24-carat gold as it is believed that gold intake provides health benefits. An extremely rare tea as it is only sold in Singapore and cannot be purchased online.

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5. TIeGuaNyIN Tea

$3,000 per 1,000 grams

Named after a Buddhist deity, Tieguanyin, the Iron Goddess of Mercy, Tieguanyin is a type of Oolong tea a blend of partially fermented green and black teas. Perhaps, the most distinctive feature is its chestnut flavour, which sets apart from most other Oolong leaves. Moreover, it can be boiled for several times while retaining the same taste and odour. Tieguanyin tea is harvested on the highest mountain of Anxi County in Fujin Province. Its preparation is a long and meticulous process involving sun drying, oxidation, rolling and drying, then roasting and scenting.

4. vINTaGe NarcISSuS

$6,500 per 1,000 grams

Vintage Narcissus is a type of an extremely rare Oolong tea, and is named after Narcissus, a Greek mythological figure. It is harvested in the Wuyi Mountains, and is fired once in two years, which helps the extra moisture to dry out. This vintage is just like vintage wine, improving with age.

3. paNDa DuNG Tea

$70,000 per 1,000 grams

Panda Dung tea is, perhaps, the most bizarre and peculiar tea available as it is not as the name suggests Panda Dung but is instead tea fertilized with fibre rich panda poo. Pandas are a Chinese national treasure, but they are also the key ingredient in preparing this ridiculously expensive tea with a cup of Panda Dung costing an eye watering $200 per cup 2. pG TIpS DIamoND Tea

$15,000 per tea bag

To celebrate its 75th anniversary, British tea company PG tea launched a hand-crafted tea bag collection designed by Boodles each studded with 280 diamonds and filled with Silver Tips Imperial Tea from Makibari Estate, the most expensive Darjeeling tea in the world.

1. Da-hoNG pao Tea

$1.2 million per 1,000 grams

The world’s rarest tea, Da-Hong is harvested form Da Hong Pao trees which grow on a perched ledge on the Wuyi Mountain in China which are protected round –the-clock by arm guards. The production of this tea is so tightly controlled that only a few hundred grams are yielded from the trees each year. Original Da Hong Pao tea costs more than 30 times its weight in gold. A single gram is almost $1,700, or over $12,000 for a pot. Da-Hong Pao can hardly be found for sale, and remains a well-kept secret. The original Da Hong Pao trees were last harvested in 2005, and will likely never make tea again. Tea-collectors who have a few grams will lovingly dry them each year to mature their flavour, making them even more valuable than before.

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There is little in life that a good cup of tea cannot cure

Dan McaDaMs

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The Bigger The BeTTer Magnums. Double Magnums. Jeroboams.

Imperials. Balthazars. Nebuchadneszzars are just a few of the larger sized bottles available today.

Wines and Champagnes come in in all shapes and sizes yet most of us only buy the standard sized bottles. Large format bottles, as they are known in the industry, take wines and champagnes to a whole new level.

Bottle size plays a fundamental size in the ageing process and any serious wine collector is likely to incorporate large-format wine bottles into a collection, regardless of whether the collector is focusing on new world wine or old world wines.

Ageing in a large format bottle can turn an average wine into something extraordinary and a fine wine into something phenomenal, it also helps that wine-makers often reserve the best of their produce for large formats meaning essentially that bigger is most definitely better! Another reason why large format bottles or a key investment is that the wine actually ages slower and more delicately that wines in a smaller sized bottle.

The science behind this is simply - Oxygenation - with a large format bottle the surface area of the neck is smaller in relation to the bottle size itself. The neck where the cork enters breathes contracting and expanding allowing oxygen to enter into the bottle but as the surface are is smaller less exposure occurs meaning the wine will age slower and more delicately creating a more refined wine.

In addition to the ageing and quality process large format bottles add an element of fun to any occasion. Due to their rarity and expense large format bottles creates a memorable experience – imagine watching the winner of the grand prix celebrating with a standard sized bottle, it doesn’t quite work- does it?

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Is there a DowNsIDe to BIG Bottles?

So is there a downside to collecting big bottles? There are a few to consider: Pricing, handling and storage, risk and sale.

In terms of pricing, large-format wine bottles don’t offer price savings. In fact, the larger the bottle the more it costs per litre, big bottles generally commands a premium in the marketplace.

Pouring directly from a large wine bottle is probably a bad idea. Besides having to heft a heavy bottle, the wine can come out under enough pressure to knock a glass out of your hand. Large bottles should be poured into decanters, and may require purchasing a pouring instrument. Opening big wine bottles can also be a pain. The corks of large-format wine bottles have a larger diameter than standard bottles, but they are usually normal in length.

When it comes to big bottles, storage is obviously a problem for most collectors. Fitting a bottle larger than a magnum in your wine cooler or wine cabinet is not easy. Even fancy wine cellars may not have adequate space to accommodate large format collections.

A collector may need to simply keep the big bottles in their original packaging (original wood).

In Martell’s experience, the biggest cause for ullage problems is imperfect storage conditions that generally do not include enough humidity or where bottles are stored upright. This allows the cork to dry up and permit more oxygen to evaporate more of the wine. This is the flip side of the ullage advantage of collecting large glass.

Finally, there is no room for mistakes when it comes to large-format bottles. Traditionally, a wine collector will buy a case of wine they want to age and drink a bottle once a year or so to track its development and determine its maturity. With a big wine bottle, once it’s opened you’re done; you have to drink it, and although, the market for selling particularly ultra-rare and expensive large-format bottles is obviously a smaller market, it is also a lucrative one - one that the super wealthy collectors appreciates so do your homework.

If you are interested in venturing into the wine collecting world Millesima the leader of fine wine and en primeur fine wine merchant since 1983 is a good place to start.

Bottle Magnum Jeroboam rehoboam Methuselah salmanazar 2 4 6 8 12

Balthazar 16

Nebuchadnezzar 20

solomon 24

sovereign 35

To find out more information visit: www.milesima.co.uk 136 LUXURY LIVING

Primat 36

Melchizedek 40

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Champagne TasTes reQUIre Very DeeP Pockets!

u With the party season finally over you will probably have tasted your fair share of Champagne after all there’s no better way to welcome the New Year than to toast it with a glass of bubbles!

With this in mind we take a look at 10 most expensive champagnes in the world which we are sure you probably won’t have been served!!!

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10. Moet & chaNDoN DoM PerIGNoN charles & DIaNa 1961 - $4,309 In 1981 Dom Pérignon was chosen as the official Champagne for the wedding of Lady Diana Spencer and Prince Charles. Magnums of Dom Pérignon Vintage 1961, the year Diana was born, were served on the day which carried a special insignia created just for the ceremony. Limited number of this vintage Brut Champagne were later released to commemorate the occasion, which now sell for an average price of £2,576 a bottle.

u 9. arMaND De BrIGNac BrUt GolD (ace of sPaDes) (6 lItre) - $6,500 Like the smaller bottle, the Armand de Brignac Brut Gold 6-litre flagship cuveé derives its light, racy effervescence from the quality of the label’s Chardonnay grapes, while Pinot Noir lends strength, boldness, and depth of palate. Pinot Meunier finishes it off with roundness, nuance, and fruitiness. The distinctive gold plated bottle earned it the nickname “Ace of Spades” after the logo, and the Champagne’s famous fans include Jay Z, who acquired the brand in 2014.

u 8. DoM PerIGNoN rosé By DaVID lyNch (JeroBoaM, 3 lItre) 1998 - $11,179 Designed exclusively for Dom Perignon

by Hollywood director David Lynch famed for his work on films such as The Elephant Man, Twin Peaks, and Mulholland Drive and in addition to designing a standard bottle, Lynch also designed ten Jeroboams (the equivalent of 6 standard bottles). As all Don Perignon Champagnes on the nose, this rosé’s initial floral and perfumed notes blossom rapidly, leading to aromas of orange peel and dried fruits whilst in the mouth, the wine reveals a fullness of texture coupled with a remarkably balanced structure that is both sophisticated and clear-cut.

7. the chaMPaGNe crIstal BrUt 1990 - $17,625 Primarily and fondly known as ‘Methuselah’, this champagne is remarkably genteel. When you sip on this, you can’t just have one. Even by simply looking at it you feel so plush and amazingly graceful. The bottle has a distinctive gold label which adds to its charming look. It makes the drink look even more vintage and worth the bucks!

u 6. krUG 1928 - $ 21,000 This bottle is the Champagne that broke that record when it sold at auction in 2009. Grandiose rumour has it the weather of 1928 was notable for its impeccable champagne-making conditions.

Celebrated for its outstanding colour, and vanilla bouquet, it’s the lightning of the Roaring Twenties in a bottle.

u 5. shIPwreckeD 1841 VeUVe clIcQUot - $34,000 In the summer of 2010 five bottles of beer were discovered in a shipwreck in Föglö in Åland’s outer archipelago. The wreck contained 145 bottles of champagne and five bottles of beer from the 1840s. Having sat at 160 feet below the surface in consistently cool waters, these bottles sat in near ideal aging conditions. Having seen a tremendous amount of interest, these bottles are considered by some to be one of the most historical events in the world of Champagne.

u 4. DoM PerIGNoN whIte GolD JeroBoaM - $40,000 This is so tremendous that it was sold out at an auction. It certainly has some magic stored. With pure divine taste and a glamorous appearance, it has impressed the champagne drinkers. Each sip of this drink transports you to another world of flamboyance and class.

There isn’t anything worthy enough to acknowledge this.

3. DoM PérIGNoN rose GolD (MathUsaleM, 6 lItre) 1996 $49,000 Only 35 bottles of the 6-litre gold-plated Dom Perignon Mathusalem were produced. In 2010, one of those ultra-rare bottles broke the record for the most expensive bottle of wine ever sold at a British bar. Elias Yiallouri, the bar manager, called Rosé Gold “the champagne of kings” and told The Telegraph, ”The 1996 vintage is regarded as one of the finest in the 20th century… it’s incredibly rare and sought-after. Each bottle is like a piece of fine art – stunningly beautiful, extremely valuable and highly collectable.”

u 2. shIPwreckeD 1907 heIDsIeck - $275,000 Originally on a Swedish freighter destined for Tsar Nicholas II of Russia, 2,000 bottles of this Champagne sank to the bottom of the Gulf of Finland in 1916 after being attacked by a German U-boat. After being recovered it became one of the world’s most expensive bottles of champagne when it went to action in Russia, thee history, age and of course the intriguing tale of the bottle aided in pushing its value to this level.

u 1. Goût De DIaMaNts (taste of DIaMoNDs) - $2.07 MIllIoN If you ever buy this prodigious champagne, you’ll lose your ability to decide whether to enjoy the blissful taste or to drown in its beauty. Alexander Amosu is the man behind this splendid masterpiece. Made from 100% Grand Cru grapes, Goût de Diamants is produced at the 8-hectare, family-owned, Champagne Chapuy in Oger. Each bottle of Goût de Diamants is adorned with a brilliant cut Swarovski crystal in the centre of a diamond-shaped pewter design resembling the Superman logo. Also called “Taste of Diamonds”, the champagne has a delightful look, angelic taste, aristocratic aroma and creamy touch which is why it has earnt the title as the most expensive champagne in the world 139

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Gourmet News u

Haute Couture Pasta Italians are known for their great sense of fashion and pasta, so it was only a matter of time before the two forces found a way to work together, and for today’s fashionista the fusion of fashion house Dolce & Gabbana collaborating with century-old pasta-maker Pastificio G. di Martino is a very exclusive offering.

The Dolce & Gabbana x Pastificio Di Martino collaboration is a limited-edition vintage tin priced at $110.00 it includes four bags of pasta in a variety of shapes. To further sweeten the deal, the tin also contains a custom designed Dolce & Gabbana apron so you can look as fashionable making the pasta as you’ll feel eating it.

In total, only 5,000 of these limited-edition tins will be made available This isn’t the first time the fashion powerhouse has dabbled in the kitchen. Earlier this year, D&G rolled out a line of brightly patterned kitchen appliances, including a $34,000 hand-painted refrigerator.

Available at selected retailers worldwide or via: www.dimartinodolcegabbana.com direct.

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Ladurée MaCaron ConteMPorary taste A special Ladurée macaron customised to the tastes and memories of contemporary artist Marina Abramović has been released. The macaron is the brainchild of Raphaël Castoriano, founder and creative director of Krëemart, which partners contemporary artists with pastry chefs to produce their own conception.

Abramović is the first subject of ‘Pastry Portrait’, a joint endeavour by Ladurée and Castoriano, who chose Abramović “because of her affinity for the intangible and the immaterial,” according to an announcement.

To create her macaron, Castoriano presented Abramović with a series of questions called the Papillae Questionnaire, used to determine what concepts should be translated to flavours. With the result a set of three macarons priced at €85,00 comprised of the memories, fragrances and scents that make up her life.

The macarons are Prussian Blue – a shade that references the artist’s parents, who were war heroes in Yugoslavia – and leaves a “guilty blue stain” on the tongue, writes Artnet.

They are stamped with Abramović s family crest, representing the balance between fragility and strength, and presented in a limited-edition box of three macarons, one of which is wrapped in gold leaf; the box’s pyramid shape is even part of the customisation, making reference to freemasonry, a symbol of “energy and power.”

Available at: www.laduree.fr 141

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royaL WHisky The ‘King of Whisky,’ Royal Salute, which was first created as a present for the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth in 1953, has unveiled the ultimate gift for this Christmas.

The latest addition to its annual ‘Royal Celebrations at the Palace’ annual series, this limited edition set pays homage to the legendary Regent’s Banquet of 1817, a momentous event that was held in the Brighton Pavilion, and that boasted more than 120 exotic dishes.

Featuring a beautiful intricate laser cut lid design which is inspired by the domes of the iconic building in East Sussex (it’s Moroccan Riad-esque in our opinion), the blue and gold motifs which line the interior of the gift pack are the brainchild of British wallpaper designer, Angela Groundwater.

Royal Salute’s signature rich, round and silky 21-Year-Old whisky, which has been exceptionally crafted and aged for a minimum of two decades, sits alongside a second Royal Dalton porcelain bottle, a miniature version designed especially for collectors. When sampled, individuals are treated to full, deep fruity flavours with a subtle smokiness. The second taste brings in a rich medley of spices and a nuttiness of hazelnuts that have a mouth-filling intensity.

For more information visit:: www.royalsalute.com 142 LUXURY LIVING

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POWER Fast and fabulous, Power exudes everything one aspires from a luxurious life. Fast cars, fast yachts and private jets, what more could one ask for!

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THE NEW ROLLS-ROYCE PHANTOM u From the moment Sir Henry Royce introduced the RollsRoyce Phantom in 1925 it was judged ‘The Best Car in the World’ by the cognoscenti. As a result it has conveyed some of the world’s most influential and powerful men and women to the most defining historical moments over the last 92 years.

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Every new Phantom that has subsequently appeared has successfully retained the title of ‘Best Car in the World’ as a result of Rolls-Royce’s tireless pursuit of perfection, visionary engineering, aesthetic acuity and deep understanding of what the world’s leading luxury item should be. Quite simply, Rolls-Royce has innovated for almost a century to set the benchmark and satisfy the most discerning luxury patrons.

A new benchmark has now been set with the release of the New Phantom – the eighth generation of this great nameplate. Not satisfied with simply launching a motor car that is a wholly contemporary design interpretation of Phantom DNA and a technological tour de force, Rolls-Royce has revolutionised the luxury car industry itself by shifting away from the status quo of shared platforms to an entirely new luxury business model.

As the next chapter in the Rolls-Royce story opens, the New Rolls-Royce Phantom points the way forward for the global luxury industry.

ThE GEnEsis Of nEW PhanTOm Quite contrary to how other so-called luxury manufacturers are trying to realise economies of scale by sharing platforms with mass market manufacturers, Rolls-Royce concluded that the future of true luxury lies in true small-volume manufacture of a dedicated ‘Architecture of Luxury’.

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WhaT is ThE aRchiTEcTuRE Of LuxuRy? The Architecture of Luxury is an all-aluminium spaceframe architecture designed by Rolls-Royce engineers that will underpin every future Rolls-Royce beginning with the New Phantom. As such, no future RollsRoyce will be of monocoque construction as used by mass-manufacturers and some mass-luxury brands.

It is a truly revolutionary approach for the motor industry, and one that is informed by Rolls-Royce’s standing as a luxury house in the business of cars. Whilst the majority of so-called luxury manufacturers are limited to sharing individual platforms in a specific sector with mass brands for say their SUV or GT offerings, thereby introducing unacceptable compromise, Rolls-Royce will be uncompromising in only using its own architecture across all its motor cars, whatever the sector.

It has been designed and engineered from the ground up in such a way as to be scalable to the size and weight requirements of different future Rolls-Royce models, including those with different propulsion, traction and control systems, thus underpinning the long-term future product roadmap.

EnGinEERinG a mOdERn masTERPiEcE The first major benefits of the new architecture for the New Phantom are lightness, increased stiffness, efficient production of standard and extended wheelbase bodies and uncompromised exterior surface design.

The all-new aluminium spaceframe structure delivers extraordinary car body stiffness for exceptional ‘bestin-class’ functional performance whilst also being lighter. Approximately 30 per cent more rigid than the spaceframe architecture on which sat Phantom VII, the new architecture is at the heart of how the next generation of Rolls-Royces delivers the Rolls-Royce experience in terms of ride comfort, acoustic comfort, seat comfort, exterior presence and interior space.

Accompanying the increased stiffness of the spaceframe is a best-in-class high comfort chassis with air suspension and state-of-the-art chassis control systems, delivering peerless ‘effortless’ ride and handling and optimal vibration comfort performance.

A new double-wishbone front axle and 5-link rear axle deliver astounding levels of control over lateral roll and shear forces and delivering incredible agility and stability, as does the addition of four-wheel steering, all contributing to an undisturbed passenger whatever the driving conditions.

Rolls-Royce’s celebrated Magic Carpet Ride also improves as a result of the new lighter architecture, and the latest generation of self-levelling air suspension. The suspension makes millions of calculations every second as it continuously varies the electronically controlled shock absorber adjustment system – reacting to body and wheel acceleration, steering inputs and camera information. In addition, the Flagbearer – evocative of those men who were required by law to carry a red flag ahead of early motor cars – adds a stereo camera system integrated in the windscreen to see the road ahead, adjusting suspension proactively rather than reactively up to 100km/h.

ThE mOsT siLEnT mOTOR caR in ThE WORLd Incalculable effort was expended to create ‘the most silent motor car in the world’ including 6mm two-layer glazing all around the car, more than 130kg of sound insulation, the largest ever cast aluminium joints in a body-in-white for better sound insulation, and use of high absorption materials.

Acoustic insulation from road noise has been helped by the employment of double skin alloy on areas within the floor and bulkhead of the spaceframe. This is a feature unique to New Phantom. Further noise insulation by inserting dense foam and felt layers are between these skins to provide sound insulation not witnessed before in the car industry.

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Stepping the New Phantom ThE hEaRTaboard Of a ROLLs-ROycE – is an occasion in itself. TheV12 coach doors stand open. The ThE maGnificEnT REinVEnTEd only choice is whether one drives or is driven.

At the heart of every Rolls-Royce of the modern period lies the power of a V12 engine. At the beginning of this next chapter of Rolls-Royce’s existence, and with the creation of the Architecture of Luxury, the New Phantom also benefits from a completely new engine.

With the focus on creating the most silent motor car in the world, a completely silent engine was also required, and that meant more low-end output at lower revs to ensure that silence. Hence a completely new, 6.75-litre V12 powertrain has been engineered for New Phantom, in place of the previous naturally aspirated V12 engine.

The new V12 Phantom engine employs two turbo chargers that contribute to a low-end torque output of 900Nm at an incredibly low 1,700rpm whilst also delivering 563bhp or 420kW of power, resulting in calm low speed progress associated with state occasions and an unfussed surge of power when one needs to press on. The addition of Satellite Aided Transmission (SAT), married to a ZF 8-Speed gearbox also ensures that the driver is prepared for whatever the road has in store for them.

ThE mOsT TEchnOLOGicaLLy adVancEd ROLLs-ROycE EVER Another benchmark, the Electronic Architecture of the New Phantom is the largest ever component produced by the BMW Group, let alone Rolls-Royce, helping to make New Phantom the most technologically advanced Rolls-Royce ever.

This central nervous system connects and controls all the various advanced intelligence systems of New Phantom, making it the most advanced luxury motor car available. Some, but not all, assistance systems on-board New Phantom include: Alertness Assistant, a 4-camera system with Panoramic View, all-round visibility including helicopter view, Night Vision and Vision Assist, Active Cruise Control, collision warning, pedestrian warning, cross-traffic warning, lane departure and lane change warning, an industry leading 7x3 high-resolution head-up display, WiFi hotspot, and of course the latest navigation and entertainment systems.

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nEW PhanTOm – a LuxuRiOus cOnTEmPORaRy dEsiGn masTERPiEcE On first glance the New Phantom is remarkable in its purity. Thanks to the new Architecture of Luxury and new engineering processes, the precision body joining process ensures there are few, if any, visible join lines between body panels, giving New Phantom the appearance of being hewn from a solid block of aluminium. It is truly a triumph of design and engineering departments working hand in hand to create a beautiful masterpiece.

cOncLusiOn The New Phantom utilising the best possible materials in the world the ethos ‘Architecture of Luxury’, and peerless Rolls-Royce design and engineering; resets the benchmark not only as ‘the Best Car in the World’, but as the world’s leading luxury item. As the next chapter in Rolls-Royce’s story opens, the New Rolls-Royce Phantom points the way forward for the global luxury industry.

Stepping aboard the New Phantom is an occasion in itself. The coach doors stand open. The only choice is whether one drives or is driven. www.rolls-roycemotorcars.com

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JAGUAR E-TYPE ZERO:

“THE MOST BEAUTIFUL ELECTRIC CAR IN THE WORLD”

u Described as ‘The most beautiful car ever made’ by Enzo Ferrari, the Jaguar E-type epitomized the glamour and excitement of the swinging 60s. Nearly 60 years on, the Jaguar E-type Zero honors the spirit of that golden age while inspiring Classic enthusiasts to embrace advanced, zero-emission powertrain technology.

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E-type Zero combines the renowned E-type dynamic experience with enhanced performance through electrification.

Jaguar, having freshly committed to electrifying all of its cars from 2020 onward and recently unveiled a new all-electric automobile based on its sleek E-type from the 1960s. The new E-type Zero keeps to the classic styling of the beautiful E-Type, while introducing a bespoke electric powertrain that whilst it can’t quite compete with the likes of Tesla wins hands down on looks!

The original E-type was launched in 1961, and has regularly been voted the best-looking car of all time. The new E-type Zero’s has been developed not only drives and looks like its predecessor but also offers outstanding performance. It’s quicker 0-100km/h (62mph) takes only 5.5sec, about one second quicker and is said to have a real-world range of 270 km (just under 170 miles) thanks to a 40kWh battery that can be fully recharged in six to seven hours.

An electric powertrain developing 220kW has been specially designed for the E-type Zero. Its lithium-ion battery pack has the same dimensions, and similar weight, to the XK six-cylinder engine used in the original E-type. The experts responsible for developing the electric powertrain have ensured it will be placed in precisely the same location as the XK engine. The electric motor (and reduction gear) lies just behind the battery pack, in the same location as the E-type’s gearbox.

Using an electric powertrain with similar weight and dimensions to the outgoing petrol engine and transmission means the car’s structure, including suspension and brakes, have not changed, simplifying the conversion and homologation simply put the new Jaguar E-Type Zero is simply a retrofit of an electric car into the shell of an old school classic.

The basic premise of bringing this classic car design up to date with electrification and other modern niceties like LED headlights, seems like an ingenious way of appeal to a younger clientele — which has both an appreciation for the past and an eagerness to embrace the future.

Jaguar haven’t announced when the E-Type Zero will go into production or pricing either. It seems to be more than a concept, Tim Hannig, Director of Jaguar Land Rover Classic, says that the company’s “aim with the E-type Zero is to future-proof classic car ownership. We’re looking forward to the reaction of our clients as we investigate bringing this concept to market.”

So watch this space!!! www.jaguar.com 156 LUXURY LIVING

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the taxi of the future u

Lilium is as ambitious as any European start-ups comes, founded in 2015 by CEO Daniel Wiegand along with three other founders Dirk Gebser, Meggy Sailer & Dr Remo Gerner it is a German aviation company that has developed a lightweight, electric vertical take-off and landing plane (VTOL) which it hopes will become the air taxi of the future.

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Supported by the European Space Agency Lilium this modern thinking two-seater jet is powered by 36 separate jet engines mounted on its 10-meter long wings via 12 movable flaps. Depending on the flight mode, the flaps tilt from a vertical into a horizontal position. At take-off, all flaps are tilted vertical, so that the engines can lift the aircraft straight upwards. Once airborne, the flaps gradually tilt into a horizontal position, leading the aircraft to accelerate and thrust forward.

Earlier this year the Lilium Jet completed its maiden flight and has recently secured $90million in funding to enable it to bring I the product to market.

Whilst flying cars sound completely ridiculous, Lilium claims this technology will change the way we travel forever. Its electric battery consumes around 90 percent less energy than drone-style aircraft, enabling the aircraft to achieve a range of 300 kilometres (183 miles) with a maximum cruising speed of 300 kph (183 mph). So leaving the city after a stressful day will soon be transformed into a thrilling ride, by travelling through the air you’ll be able to avoid time-consuming traffic jams, while enjoying a magnificent view on the ground below.

taKe off With the PuSh of a ButtoN To roll this out project out, Lilium has proposed that a large network of small and inexpensive landing pads and central places placed around cities will enable quick entry to the aircraft at any time thus allowing fast efficient flying .

Once the landing pads have been allocated an app would become readily available so users could just select a landing pad nearby, and your jet would be ready and waiting within minutes. Lilium claims it is working actively with leading mobility service providers to deliver a seamless user experience from booking through to landing.

a heaLthier, CLeaNer, aND More afforDaBLe WorLD Air pollution, noise, congestion, and ever-increasing real estate prices are problems most larger cities face. Yet they also offer a range of opportunities: in culture, education, entertainment, and last but not least, jobs. With the Lilium Jet it becomes possible to profit from these benefits without the downsides of either high real estate prices or long travel times.

Lilium predicts its first manned flight will take off in 2019 with on demand air transport rolled out to the masses by 2025.

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Lilium claims it will have a massive positive social and environmental impact: • will reduce travel times by a factor of 5, so people can live in the countryside and still work in the city.

• city property prices will increase in affordability, since living close to work is no longer a factor.

• will reduce the need for a car, which means there will be less transit traffic and less noise in our cities.

• The Lilium jets have zero operational environmental impact they’re 100% emission-free.

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A private apartment in First Class.

That’s Flying Reimagined.

In the First Apartment on our A380 you can relax in a large leather armchair before retiring to the comfort of a separate bed, dressed with all-natural be linen. Enjoy a seven-course tasting menu prepared by our Inflight Chef. Take a refreshing shower in the First Class bathroom before landing.

#Reimagined I etihad.com I 164 LUXURY LIVING

Flying Reimagined

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THE NEW FLAGSHIP FROM

AZIMUT YACHTS

The Azimut Grande 35 METRI is the new flagship in Azimut Yachts’ most exclusive line, the Grande Collection. Drawing on Azimut carbon fibre technology and the expertise of Stefano Righini, who defined the concept and designed the exteriors, the yacht offers unprecedented solutions for a boat this size, representing a masterpiece of style and space.

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The yacht has a Wide Body with Raised Pilot House (RPH) and supremely sleek exteriors, featuring exceptionally sized full-height windows in both the bow and salon. Unique in this category is the option to add an additional sundeck (almost 30 m2) on a third level, with access from the upper deck in the stern. This solution doesn’t affect the balance of volumes and retains the model’s overall dynamism.

The Azimut Grande 35 METRI delivers the best build quality in its category. The entire superstructure and hardtop are made from pure carbon fibre, which Azimut uses with great success to increase the volume of the structures, and so to offer more space and comfort, but without adding weight to the boat. Epoxy, the non plus ultra of resins, is used alongside the carbon because it has superior mechanical characteristics to the resins normally used.

With a maximum beam of 7.5 meters, the wide-body Grande 35 METRI has all the features of even bigger superyachts, like the side garage for a 5 meter tender plus a 3.25 meter jet-ski. This leaves the stern completely free for a magnificent 12 m2 beach area provided by the big pivoting swim platform.

A second surprising lounge or beach club area in the bow (30 m2, excluding the side walkways) is fitted with sofas, a sun lounging area and a hydro massage tub. The spacious deck area in front the tub is in fact a platform that can be raised using an electrohydraulic mechanism to gain access to the winches and fender racks beneath. The trapezoidal bow (one of Righini’s hallmarks) provides plenty of space and even more comfort throughout the area during both mooring operations and navigation.

The interiors of the Azimut Grande 35 METRI are designed by world renowned architect Achille Salvagni (one of AD Collector’s top 100 international designers), who uses flowing lines and streamlined shapes to reinterpret various classical features from a distinctive and unmistakably contemporary point of view.

The various adaptations of the design share the same guiding thread, with one matt, textured type of wood juxtaposed against a darker, polished variety. A series of inserts in exclusive materials like treated brass, bronze and polished stainless steel characterize and contaminate the space, giving it authority and a sense of memory.

The forms created by Salvagni shape and permeate the interiors with a system that is never banal or dictated by fleeting fashions. The interiors are serene, calm and sophisticated in their simplicity, expressing the new approach to well-being under the banner of calm and sophistication.

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They provide a neutral backdrop onto which the designer has grafted unique, specially-designed furnishings that enhance and embellish, with meticulous attention to detail. The big circular sofa in the salon on the main deck defines the dynamism and originality of this living area, underscored by the radial arrangement made up of independent components that characterize and define the space, without interfering with the system of walls and windows.

The main deck contains the owner’s suite, which transmits the same sensation of openness and lightness, where the king size central bed becomes the main feature around which the entire space revolves. The highpoint of the owner’s suite is its unique private balcony, which is unprecedented on a 35 meter yacht. Using a mechanism that is highly sophisticated but extremely straightforward, the section of the full-height window with a carbon fiber frame folds out, while the floor of the balcony extends from under the cabin, protected by automatic pop up stanchions. The result is the Instant Balcony, with no uprights or other obstacles to spoil the panoramic view from the owner’s suite.

Below deck, the layout includes four guest cabins (two VIP cabins with double beds and two with twin beds), with access from a big central lobby. One of the standout features of the Azimut Grande 35 METRI’s interiors is the spiral staircase, which connects all the decks, from the lower deck to the pilot house. The backlit onyx steps have different finishings on their external and internal sides (white lacquer and mother of pearl respectively), as if to confirm just how exclusive the design is.

In the bow, in a space that is completely separate from the guest area, the quarters for the six members of crew consist of a crew mess, four cabins and four bathrooms.

The Azimut Grande 35 METRI is the top of the range in the Grande Collection, representing a step forward in the search for new solutions that benefit owners in terms of their technology, design, comfort and navigation efficiency. www.azimutyachts.com

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SPORT Sport is a pastime that not everyone has the luxury to enjoy. Some sporting activities such at motorracing, polo and yachting can be extremely expensive pastimes but watching them can be just a fun. Here we review the most luxurious sporting events coming up.

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PoLo bUt not as YoU know it!

If you are missing the polo season already, why not head to one of these incredible venues to watch snow polo? The variant of the traditional game, Snow polo is played on a much smaller field than grass polo’s 300 yard field. Also, only three players are on a team versus the traditional four player team. The snow polo ball is much larger and lighter than the ball used on grass fields. It is also red to contrast against the white snow.

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The trend for snow polo started in St Moritz in the 1980s, but is now spreading worldwide. Here we take a look at some of the best places to catch the action this winter.

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Snow polo on St. Moritz’s frozen lake

ASPen, COlORAdO Aspen is the only place in North America that hosts a snow polo tournament, and it now attracts some of the top polo talent on the planet, celebrating its fourth consecutive year hosted by the Aspen Valley Polo Club the Snow Polo World Championship took place on Dec. 14-17.

For spectators, the St. Regis Snow Polo World Championship provides a unique experience. This is one of the few venues where spectators can get up close and personal with the pros and the horses.

This year’s event includes a sold-out VIP tent and is growing larger each year, both in size of spectators and teams. Three years ago, only three teams played, but this year six teams are playing.

Leading the way is world famous polo player Nacho Figueras, The first St. Regis Connoisseur who has enjoyed a long standing association with the high-octane sport – having learned to play at just nine years old on his family farm in Argentina. Today, as a much admired highly rated professional player, Nacho brings all of this and more to the polo fields.

Snow polo may have originated in St. Moritz, Switzerland, but it seems the so-called sport of kings on the snow has found a nice home in Aspen, Colorado. www.stregispolo.com/event/aspen-snow-polo/ 175

SwiTzeRlAnd If glitz and glamour are your thing then St Moritz, Switzerland could be the venue for you. Every last weekend in January, (26 – 28 January 2018 ) St. Moritz turns into the world capital of polo: Since 1985, when snow polo had its world premiere here, teams from around the world compete for the coveted Cartier Trophy on the frozen lake of St. Moritz.

The Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz is the world’s only high-goal tournament on snow and every year more than 12,000 private jets land in the resort with a large proportion touching down for the tournament.

The prestigious event attracts 15,000 spectators including European royalty and some of Hollywood’s biggest names. So grab your fur coat and blend in with the “locals”. www.snowpolo-stmoritz.com

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AuSTRiA Snow polo returns to Kitzbuhel in Austria for a 16th time this New Year, firmly establishing itself as one of the most popular annual events among the polo community, 8 international teams and 15,000 spectators enjoying the spectacle.

From January 11 to 14, 2018, the 16th edition of Snow Polo World Cup will once again gather the world’s greatest polo players and hundreds of polo fans from every corner of the globe to Kitzbuehel. The Snow Polo World Cup 2018 features top teams who will deliver a winter polo extravaganza at Münichau Meadow in Reith bei Kitzbuehel, with the lofty peaks of Wilder Kaiser Mountain Range as stunning backdrop. Among the sociable highlights is the “Polo Player’s Night” at the elegant marquee. www.kitzbuehelpolo.com

u Nestled inside historic Washington Park, the Chicago Snow Polo Cup held on February 9-11th, 2018 will be the first snow polo event held in Chicago sharing a part of its own history the event is returning to Washington Park where it played its first polo match in June 1894.

The CSPC is wholly unique by being held in an “urban” setting with the Chicago skyline as its backdrop.

Polo teams, with players from around the world, will play in this medium-goal tournament.

Running simultaneous to the polo activities will be the Chicago Horse Festival providing visitors with an opportunity to experience an array of multi-cultural and historical horse-related activities. CSPC will also bring focus to Chicago’s history and deeply-rooted ties to the sport of polo and its unique place on the landscape of American polo. Today, Chicago remains home to a passionate and long line of equestrian families and enthusiasts, with polo played year round at ten polo grounds around the Chicagoland area. www.chicagosnowpolocup.com 176 LUXURY LIVING

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T H E P E R F E C T L O C AT I O N F O R A U N I Q U E E X P E R I E N C E S A N TA M A R Í A P O L O C L U B S O T O G R A N D E

C O R P O R AT E & P R I VAT E E V E N T S 2,500 sqm CONVENTION HALL · POLO EXHIBITIONS & CLINICS · 20 Ha. GREEN AREAS

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info@santamariapoloclub.com

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SOTOGRANDE’S GOLFING JEWEL u LA RESERVA CLUB, AND REAL CLUB VALDERRAMA HOST WINTER SEASON TOURNAMENTS

They’ve been called the ‘glittering jewels’ in Spain’s golfing crown, ranked among the world’s very best golf courses and regularly hosting the sport’s most famous names.

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PRO-AM They’ve been called the ‘glittering jewels’ in Spain’s golfing crown, ranked among the world’s very best golf courses and regularly hosting the sport’s most famous names.

Situated just three miles apart in the sun-kissed heart of Sotogrande, Andalucia, La Reserva Club and Real Club Valderrama have become bywords for golf at its finest: each a world-renowned course with facilities of the highest calibre and set in breathtaking surroundings.

This season, La Reserva Club’s Pro-Am event drew a large crowd to its long, wooded course – with stunning views towards Gibraltar and the Mediterranean – and featured a star-studded field of its own, including Romain Langasque and Paul Maddy, with England’s two-time Ryder Cup winner David Howell finishing at the top of the leaderboard.

Monday of tournament week, La Reserva Club, as a co-sponsor of the Andalucia Valderrama Masters, organised a Pro-Am, elaborating on the experience offered to the tournament guests and members of both clubs. This was headlined by professionals participating in the Andalucia Valderrama Masters such as Adrian Otaegui, the 25-year-old from San Sebastian, who knows Sotogrande well.

Adrian Otaegui, the 25-year-old from San Sebastian knows Sotogrande well. He took part in the Pro-Am as a precursor to the Andalucia Valderrama Masters taking place a few days later.

According to Otaegui, the two tournaments provided the perfect week’s golf – for players and spectators alike.

‘The Pro-Am is great fun – and an ideal way to prepare for the Masters,’ he says. ‘It is such a great area for golfing and I’ll be back again next year. Sergio did really well to win, but hopefully I can take his crown.’

Clockwise from top left: Romain Langasque, AdrianOtaegui, David Howell, Steven Titley, Paul Maddey, Thomas Detry, Magnus A. Carlsson, Renato Paratore.

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VALDERRAMA MASTERS The Andalucia Valderrama Masters attracted Europe’s top golfers, including Major winners Martin Kaymer, Padraig Harrington and Danny Willet. The Real Club Valderrama was a fitting venue for the only European Tour event to take place in Spain in 2017.

After four days of competition in front of large and enthusiastic galleries, home favourite Sergio Garcia continued his superb season by claiming the second Andalucia Valderrama Masters title of his career ¬–finishing on 12 under par, one stroke ahead of Joost Luiten of the Netherlands.

The highlight of Garcia’s four-under 67 in the final round came on the ninth where he showed his trademark creativity by using a five-wood from just off the green – and holing for a birdie.

‘Valderrama is a very special place for me, and full of good memories,’ said Garcia after his triumph, which included five birdies in his final round. ‘It is one of my favourite courses, one of the best in the world, and I always enjoy playing there.’

Joost Luiten

Sergio Garcia

Garcia’s stellar performance was just the latest in a long list of unforgettable moments at Real Club Valderrama. In 1997, it became the first Spanish course to host the Ryder Cup as captain Seve Ballesteros led Europe to a close-fought victory over the USA, with little-known Italian Costantino Rocca defeating the mighty Tiger Woods in the singles.

Three years later, Woods was famously frustrated once again at Real Club Valderrama, this time by the notorious par-5 lake-fronted 17th hole, with the American legend finding the water three times in the WGC American Express Invitational.

More recently, Valderrama hosted its first Spanish Open in 2016 with Real Madrid galactico Gareth Bale in the crowd as England’s Andrew ‘Beef ’ Johnson won on the manicured fairways and small, lightning-quick greens that have seen Real Club Valderrama dubbed ‘the Augusta of Europe’.

Meanwhile, Garcia’s win – his 14th European Tour title – capped a memorable 2017 for the popular 37-year-old, coming after his victory in the Dubai Desert Classic in February and his first Major at the Masters in April.

‘Valderrama was really a treat. The crowds were unbelievable – so many people came out and supported,’ said Garcia.

Among the first to congratulate Garcia was his Spanish compatriot Adrian Otaegui, who finished the tournament tied for 12th.

‘I love the area. Valderrama and La Reserva Club are my top two favourite courses in Spain,’ says Otaegui. ‘I spent a lot of my amateur days in the region because the good weather means you can play even in the winter.’

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LA RESERVA CLUB La Reserva Club is widely regarded as an absolute must-play for any golfer visiting the area. Opened in 2003, this modern, 18-hole, 7,400-yard championship layout has quickly become a firm favourite of golfers worldwide, and hosted numerous tours including the NH Collection Open in 2014 which featured several Ryder Cup stars including Andy Sullivan, Chris Wood and Thomas Pieters.

Legend Manuel Piñero joined La Reserva Club as its ambassador and offers specialist golf clinics and training courses.

Designed by famed American course architect Cabell B. Robinson, La Reserva Club consists of two loops of nine which feature iconic and varied par-3s, many of which are highlighted by vastly different teeing areas to vary the challenge of the holes dramatically.

Highlighted by wide, sweeping fairways which lead to large, undulating greens, La Reserva Club examines every aspect of even the most accomplished golfer’s game.

The par-4 first is as stunning as any opening hole in Europe, with an elevated tee overlooking a generous and sweeping fairway that doglegs sharply to the left. Finding the fairway is far from mission accomplished, as a stream short of the green awaits any poorly struck approaches.

Water hazards feature on no less than seven holes, most noticeably all the way along the left of the signature par-4 eighth hole, while elevation changes across the Costa del Sol valleys place a particular emphasis on club selection throughout the round.

As players make the turn they are faced with the most intimidating tee shot on the course, as the 10th demands a long, accurate tee shot to a fairway that offers little room to bail-out on either side.

The 18th winds its way back up to the stunning, architecturally authentic clubhouse, with a green set into the hillside which offers stunning views of both the Mediterranean Sea and mountains of La Gran Reserva.

To find out more about playing at La Reserva Club membership, and dining and private events at its signature restaurant, L’Olive, please contact the clubhouse on +34 856 560 922.

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AM ERICA’S CU P. B R ITISH TIM EKEEPIN G .

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REGATTA AC

Bremont has been appointed the Official Timing Partner of the 35th America’s Cup and of the defending champions, ORACLE TEAM USA. To celebrate, we’ve created a collection of limited edition timepieces. The Regatta Series, specially designed to be used by sailors, incorporates a unique countdown chronograph movement. So the question is, which of these fine watches should you choose? Sorry, you’re on your own.

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VOLVO OCEAN RACE

••••••••• The Volvo Ocean Race, which sets sail every three years, is without doubt the toughest, most prestigious event in the elite sailing calendar.

Since 1973, the Volvo Ocean Race has provided the ultimate test of a team and a human adventure like no other, often described as the longest and toughest professional sporting event in the world, sailing’s toughest team challenge and one of the sport’s Big Three events, along with the Olympics and America’s Cup. The 2017-18 edition will take the teams 45,000 nautical miles around the world, across four oceans, touching six continents and 12 landmark Host Cities. Put simply, the Volvo Ocean Race is an obsession, and many of the world’s best sailors have dedicated years, decades even, in trying to win it.

There is no prize money for the winners, but seeing your name etched into one of the silver rings of the Volvo Ocean Race Trophy is a prize beyond compare for sailors who grew up with dreams of emulating the legends of the race – heroic figures who dedicated their professional lives to chasing victory – people like Blake, Éric Tabarly, Conny van Rietschoten, Grant Dalton, Paul Cayard, Ian Walker.

The race’s concept is simple: it’s a round-the-clock, relentless pursuit of competitive edge and the ultimate ocean marathon, pitting the sport’s best sailors against each other across the world’s toughest waters. Racing one-design Volvo Ocean 65s, the world’s best professional ocean racers drive themselves to out-work and out-perform their competition around the globe.

In 2017-18, there is a renewed emphasis on the Southern Ocean and a new set of rules too – incentivising mixed crews of male and female sailors and more strategic innovation out on the racecourse.

The Volvo Ocean Race started from Alicante, Spain on 22 October 2017 and will finish in The Hague, Netherlands in June 2018.

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Photo: Ugo Fonolla/Volvo Ocean Race

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This year seven teams are taking part: TEAM AKzoNoBEL

Led by Simeon Tienpont were first to announce for the 201718 edition – continuing the extraordinary history of Dutch teams entering the Whitbread/Volvo Ocean Race.Backed by leading global paints and coatings company AkzoNobel, they are the only team racing in a brand new Volvo Ocean 65.

Photo: Jesus Renedo/Volvo Ocean Race

doNgfENg RAcE TEAM Maybe it will be second time lucky under inspirational French skipper Charles Caudrelier, after far exceeding expectations with a podium finish in 2014-15. This time, the team is 100% backed by Dongfeng Motor Corporation, the Chinese motor manufacturer headquartered in the Hubei province city of Wuhan – and is once again committed to developing the sport of offshore sailing in China. Caudrelier’s mixed crew will again include Chinese sailors –and the French skipper has boosted his squad with world-class offshore ocean racers from around the globe.

Photo: Jeremie Lecaudey/Volvo Ocean Rac

MAPfRE Returning to the Volvo Ocean Race and their goal could not be clearer – to win the Volvo Ocean Race trophy for the first time in Spain’s history. Skipper Xabi Fernández has built a mixed and multinational squad brimming with honours – from Olympic gold medallists and America’s Cup winners, to some of the most highly regarded offshore sailors on the planet. After finishing in fourth place last time out, it’s fair to say that MAPFRE look stronger than ever before in 2017-18.

Photo: Ugo Fonolla/Volvo Ocean Race

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sUN HUNg KAi / scALLywAg

Representing Hong Kong, Sun Hung Kai/Scallywag are led by experienced heavy weather sailor David Witt and go into the race with an added goal to promote competitive sailing in Asia, while building a long-lasting youth sailing legacy. The team, backed by Hong Kong-based Seng Huang Lee and Sun Hung Kai & Co, have a core with plenty of experience sailing together and in David Witt they have a leader who knows the race well, with the Australian returning to compete for a second time, 20 years on from his debut with Innovation Kvaerner.

Photo: Ricardo Pinto

TURN THE TidE oN PLAsTic A mixed, youth focused team with a strong sustainability message, led by Britain’s Dee Caffari. The crusading campaign, backed by principal sustainability partner The Mirpuri Foundation, as well as Ocean Family Foundation, is dedicated to the issue of ocean health. The team’s guiding mission is to amplify United Nations Environment’s ‘Clean Seas: Turn the Tide on Plastic’ campaign. Caffari has a multinational, male-female squad, with the majority of her crew under 30 years of age.

Photo: Beau Outteridge/Turn the Tide on Plastic

VEsTAs 11th HoUR RAciNg

Vestas are back in the Volvo Ocean Race after their against-the odds comeback story in 2014-15. This time, their campaign is being run in full partnership with 11th Hour Racing, a programme of The Schmidt Family Foundation working to implement real change on marine health. Vestas 11th Hour Racing are led by the American duo of Charlie Enright and Mark Towill, who had their first taste of the Volvo Ocean Race in the last edition with Alvimedica. They ended that race on a high, adding victory in the final ocean leg to their two In-Port Race wins, and for this edition, they have twin goals – to do well on the water and promote a sustainable message across the world.

Sam Greenfield/Volvo Ocean Race

TEAM BRUNEL Back with a vengeance after coming so close in 2014-15, when they just failed to overhaul Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing. Once again, their campaign will be led by the tireless Bouwe Bekking, a sailing legend and a self-confessed Volvo Ocean Race addict. Brunel, the Dutch-based global project management, recruitment and consultancy company, and founder Jan Brand and are Volvo Ocean Race veterans themselves, having had their first involvement in 1997-98.

Photo: Pedro Martinez/Volvo Ocean Race

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The VOLOVO OCEAN RACE fact file

The Volvo Ocean Race the world’s longest sporting event and the ultimate test of a team in a professional sport 5,000 nautical miles, the theoretical course distance, the longest route in the 44year history of the race 83,000 – the equivalent race distances in kilometres 12,500 nautical miles will be raced in the Southern Ocean, a hostile, freezing environment renowned for boat-breaking storms, three times as much compared to recent editions 8 months of racing, from October 2017 to June 2018 7 teams 11 legs make-up the global race track, each leg is scored separately 12 landmark Host Cities 80 + sailors (the number of sailors may vary as not all participate in every leg) 18 female sailors 18 different nationalities 15 sailors across the 7 teams have won the race before 21 Ben Piggott, the youngest sailor in the race on Sun Hung Kai / Scallywag 55 Joan Vila, the oldest sailor in the race on MAPFRE 12 editions to date, making this the 13th edition of the race that began as the Whitbread Round the World Race in 1973

Photo: Jen Edney/Volvo Ocean Race

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HOME Offering an insight into the world of luxury interiors Luxury Living Magazine helps you create the perfect home. Whether your taste is classic or contemporary- or an eclectic mix of both - you’ll find ideas and inspiration, the latest information and tools to help you decorate, renovate, and entertain stylishly.

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HOW TO MONETIZE

AN ART COLLECTION u Luxury Living Magazine speaks with Athena Art Finance on how today’s collectors are turning to art financing to realize the liquid value of their artworks

Athena Art Finance CEO and co-founder, Andrea Danese Many serious art collectors are increasingly looking to art-secured financing as an attractive means to support their passion for collecting or to build liquidity for other ventures and needs. Athena Art Finance, based in New York, is the leading independent specialist in this field working closely with private clients, their families and advisors. Athena launched operations in 2015 with the support of a premier group of investors led by the Washington, DC-based Carlyle Group and the Geneva-based Pictet Group.

Courtesy of Christies Luxury Defined we spoke with Athena’s CEO and co-founder, Andrea Danese, to learn more about Athena’s approach to art-secured lending and what prospective clients should know when considering a loan secured by their collection.

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Athena Art Finance, will finance against fine art, namely paintings and sculpture, created by established and mid-career artists.

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What drove you to start athena art Finance?

It is widely recognized that the art market has expanded tremendously over the past twenty years, in terms of collector interest, transaction activity, and, notably, valuations. Transaction activity has grown four-fold over the past 20 years to over $64 billion. Rough estimates put the total value of art in private hands in the order of $1 trillion, of which $100 billion is suitable for financing.

Yet, among several founding investors, myself included, we were struck at how underserved a market of this size was from a financial services perspective. Here was a market commanding increasingly impressive values and an asset that could make up a meaningful part of a private client’s balance sheet, yet private clients had no way to realize value other than to sell their art, something most collectors loathe to do. Moreover, art was among the least efficiently financed assets on our clients’ balance sheets—being a 100% cash funded asset with virtually no sources of dedicated financing in the market.

That is where we saw the market opportunity for us: to create a company specializing in art-secured financing for sophisticated art-collecting clients in an independent, high-touch and solutions-oriented manner.

While our loan process is always tailored to the specific circumstances of our clients, the approach always centres around our clients’ art. As a non-bank lender, we have greater flexibility to underwrite the art directly as the primary source of repayment for our loans. Given our recourse is generally limited to our client’s art, we take on the risk of future valuation movements during the life of the loan. By contrast, traditional banks must be comfortable that their loans can always be supported by a client’s financial assets or general creditworthiness beyond simply their art. Moreover, we do not charge back-ended sales commissions if our client’s art is sold in the normal course, therefore we are agnostic as to whether or where our clients choose to sell their art. In reality, many clients finance their art precisely because they do not want to sell at all..

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iF i am a collector, hoW could athena help me?

Simply put, we help our clients access credit tied directly to the value of their art. This distinguishes us from the few traditional banks that offer a similar art-lending service, but primarily consider a client’s other personal assets when underwriting a loan. This has an important value to our clients: it allows them to access incremental liquidity above and beyond what their other assets can support, which can be deployed in a range of opportunistic ways.

While some clients indeed opt to finance their art as a means to supplement their general liquidity and cover life expenses, many other clients see the value of accessing the value of their art on a limited recourse basis to redeploy into other investments. Moreover, the fact our lending is recourse only to our client’s art means that clients are insulating the risk of their art from their other assets.

Frequently, these financially-sophisticated clients, often financial services or business professionals themselves, are keen to continue building their collections and wish to do so in a financially-efficient manner.

Others are investing in similarly illiquid investments, such as private equity and real estate, and wish to access additional investable capital.

We are also being approached by clients about art financing as an estate planning tool. Being solutionsoriented means we recognize that every client’s specific set of circumstances and objectives is unique to them, and we work with them to put in place a financing arrangement that fits their needs.

are athena’s services more relevant For buyers or sellers oF art?

Both. We are active in supporting clients transacting in the art market, whether as buyers or sellers. We assist buyers in providing additional financial resources to keep collecting. Notably for prospective buyers, we regularly publish a list of pre-approved artwork at upcoming auction sales that we can accept a loan collateral. This gives auction participants an additional financial tool to be able to finance their purchases with Athena if they choose to do so, providing them greater purchasing power and payment flexibility.

We also assist sellers in providing upfront funds in advance of a pending sale or a longer-term plan to sell.

And we also assist clients who have already built a sizable collection, but wish to draw down on its value to re-invest for other non-art market needs or opportunities.

is there any particular type oF art you Finance?

We most readily finance fine art, namely paintings and sculpture, created by established and mid-career artists who have an active secondary market at auction or private sale. We are extremely cautious with emerging artists who only transact in the primary market or artists who have yet to establish an auction track record over a market cycle.

We generally work with collections of US$1 million or greater with a preference for sizable, “anchor” works in a collection. When valuing art for loan collateral purposes, we use a combination of in-house experts and outside, independent appraisers.

does the intangible value oF oWning a masterpiece impact a collector’s decision to use their art as leverage as opposed to selling it?

Absolutely. We recognize that for most of our clients, art is a passion and a lifestyle. Collections are often the result of a multi-generation endeavor. For these and other reasons, most clients are highly resistant to selling their art (selling can also be very tax-punitive). Given this, financing can be an important tool to manage what can be highly valuable and cherished asset without the need to sell.

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How do you expect the upcoming intergenerational transfer of wealth (UBS/PwC estimates 500 billionaires will transfer US$2.1 trillion to their heirs over the next 20 years) will impact the art financing market?

Are affluent millennial collectors more willing to use art for leverage than their parents and grandparents?

There is some evidence compiled by Deloitte in a recent survey to suggest that younger generations are more open to financing their art than their parents. Indeed, for younger collectors looking to build their collections, financing can be an attractive tool to manage their liquidity and position them to respond to attractive buying opportunities when they arise. It is part of Athena’s mission to offer financing as a normal course option for these types of collectors.

What do you see in store For the art market?

We see the market continuing to professionalize in several important ways. Firstly, increasing market activity and valuations are compelling collectors to conduct more careful due diligence when they collect, especially at the masterpiece price level. Secondly, the market is beginning to embrace more robust data analytics to underpin business and pricing decision-making. We see these as very positive signs for the market that will continue to build buyers’ and sellers’ confidence and are supportive of Athena’s mission.

is athena’s long-term goal to create an entirely neW asset class? in other Words, are you looking to create securitized loans backed by art?

In short, yes. Part of the dual mission of Athena is to foster greater capital markets comfort with art as an asset, something that historically has been very challenging. Our hope is that by continuing to professionalize and institutionalize underwriting art as loan collateral, Athena will help build that comfort. We see better data analytics around the market being a big part of this. Overtime, we want Athena to be able to bring multiple financing sources to the art market, including an eventual securitization.

Re-discovered Leonardo da Vinci’s Salvator Mundi recently sold at Christies New York for $450 million, breaking a record for the most expensive artwork ever auctioned.

u Article provided courtesy of Christies Luxury defined 199

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TOP 5 MOST VALUABLE PAINTINGS IN ART

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Leonardo da Vinci’s Salvator Mundi (Saviour of the World) was recently sold for $450 million (£342 million) in New York, shattering the record for the most expensive artwork ever sold.

The painting, which was once part of Charles I’s Royal collection and was sold for just £45 in the 1950s when it was mistaken for a copy, is the last remaining Leonardo in private hands. Following 19 minutes of bidding at Christie’s in New York - despite lingering questions by some experts over its authenticity and condition the hammer finally came down for a total amount, including fees paid by the winner to the auction house, of $450,312,500 million

Whilst most of the world’s most famous paintings, especially old master works done before 1803, are generally owned or held at museums they very rarely come up for sale and as such, they are quite literally priceless.

Here we look at the 5 most expensive paintings in history. (The prices shown are all adjusted for inflation.)

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LeoNaRdo da VINCI’S SaLVatoR MuNdI (SaVIouR oF tHe WoRLd SoLd FoR $450M Commissioned by King Louis XII of France more than 500 years ago, Salvator Mundi, the long lost Leonardo da Vinci painting of Jesus Christ had been presumed lost since the late 18th century.

The painting depicts Christ holding a crystal orb and is one of fewer than 20 paintings by da Vinci known to exist.

When “Salvator Mundi” reappeared at auction in 1958, it was dismissed as a copy and sold for just £45 ($59). acquired by a group of art dealers for less than $10,000 when sold in 2005, the painting -- which was in poor condition and had been heavily overpainted -- was painstakingly restored and brought back to its now glory gaining authenticity by the art world, however some doubt does still remain

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“NaFea Faa IpoIpo” WHeN WILL You MaRRY bY pauL GauGuIN SoLd FoR: $300M Gauguin’s 1982 picture of two tahitian girls smashed the record for the world’s most expensive single work of art, when Qatar Museums (formerly the Quarter Museums authority) in doha bought the canvas from a Swiss collector Rudolf Steachelin for almost $300 million in February of this year.

It was painted during Gauguin’s first trip to tahiti, where he said he travelled to escape “everything that is artificial and conventional” in europe.

The painting had been hanging in basel’s Kunstmuseum (art museum) on loan more than 60 years, but was sold after Mr Steachelin apparently fell out with the institution, withdrawing all his works.

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tHe CaRd pLaYeRS bY pauL CézaNNe SoLd FoR: $250M Commissioned by King Louis XII of France more than 500 years ago, Salvator Mundi, the long lost Leonardo da Vinci painting of Jesus Christ had been presumed lost since the late 18th century.

The painting depicts Christ holding a crystal orb and is one of fewer than 20 paintings by da Vinci known to exist.

When “Salvator Mundi” reappeared at auction in 1958, it was dismissed as a copy and sold for just £45 ($59). acquired by a group of art dealers for less than $10,000 when sold in 2005, the painting -- which was in poor condition and had been heavily overpainted -- was painstakingly restored and brought back to its now glory gaining authenticity by the art world, however some doubt does still remain

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No.6 (VIoLet, GReeN aNd Red) – MaRK RotHKo SoLd FoR: $186M In 2014 Russian billionaire dmitry Rybolovlev bought the No.6 (Violet, Green and Red) for the sum of $186 million, creating the record for the highest amount ever paid for a work by an american painter. The painting was procured for him by Yves bouvier whom Rybolovlev considered to be his broker (though this was an oral agreement, never outlined on paper). Rybolovlev later realized that he was being charged much higher amounts by bouvier than the sum received by the owner. In fact, bouvier himself stated that he bought No. 6 from Cherise Moueix through an intermediary for $80 million plus a commission. The painting is now at the heart of a legal dispute between Rybolovlev and bouvier.

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LeS FeMMeS d’aLGeR (VeRSIoN o) – pabLo pICaSSo SoLd FoR: $179.4M The current record holder for the most expensive painting ever sold at auction is also the most recent sale on this list. picasso created a series of 15 variations of Les femmes d’alger (The Women of algiers) inspired by the French master eugene delacroix between 1954 and 1955. Version o is marks the culmination of the series it has long been considered the most important picasso in private hands While the identity of new buyer was not revealed at the time of the sale, recent reports suggest that billionaire and former Qatari prime minister, Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim bin Jaber al Thani might be the proud new owner of the painting. The wealthy sheikh who supposedly owns pricey homes in London and New York has been dubbed the “man who bought London.”

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Breakfast at tiffany’s u

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Tiffany & Co. opens new home & accessories floor and blue box cafe at its Fifth Avenue flagship store

56 years since film-goers first enchanted “Breakfast at Tiffany’s,” the iconic 1961 film featuring Audrey Hepburn and now, Tiffany & Co. has unveiled its first ever on-site retail dining concept, The Blue Box Café situated on the fourth floor of its Fifth Avenue flagship store in Manhattan.

The artfully composed floor also houses Tiffany’s new luxury Home & Accessories collection of elevated everyday objects, as well as a baby boutique, sterling silver hollowware, a selection of vintage books curated by Assouline and a Tiffany fragrance laboratory.

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56 years since film-goers first enchanted “Breakfast at Tiffany’s,” the iconic 1961 film featuring Audrey Hepburn and now, Tiffany & Co. has unveiled its first ever on-site retail dining concept, The Blue Box Café situated on the fourth floor of its Fifth Avenue flagship store in Manhattan.

The artfully composed floor also houses Tiffany’s new luxury Home & Accessories collection of elevated everyday objects, as well as a baby boutique, sterling silver hollowware, a selection of vintage books curated by Assouline and a Tiffany fragrance laboratory.

“Both the café and redesign of the Home & Accessories floor reflect a modern luxury experience,” said Reed Krakoff, chief artistic officer, Tiffany & Co. “The space is experimental and experiential – a window into the new Tiffany.”

The striking interior décor incorporates industrial details that evoke Tiffany’s craftsmanship and heritage. Playful and unexpected touches sit harmoniously alongside elegant finishes like herringbone marble and amazonite stone, reflecting the new Home & Accessories collection’s emphasis on everyday luxury.

Despite the popularity of Breakfast at Tiffany’s, the new dining concept is a first for the jewellery giant, spurring dreams of high-class sophistication for all cinephiles’. And, yes, the café does serve breakfast. The simple menu – which will change and evolve throughout the seasons – is a refined take on signature New York dishes, reinvented to be uniquely Tiffany. The setting is as inviting as the food is inspiring, serving customers who have always dreamed of having Breakfast at Tiffany.

The new Home & Accessories floor will be open to the public during regular store hours.

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PROPERTY Luxury Living Magazine works with the industry’s top brokers and agents to showcase spectacular real estate, exclusive estates, and extraordinary developments from around the world.

Whether you are looking to find your dream home or perfect vacation rental Luxury Living Magazine is your key to exclusive luxury living.

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from vision to reality

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Up high on the hillside surrounded by a wealth of mood-enriching views, you will find the rare and sophisticated community of La Reserva - Southern Spain’s most elegant address on the Mediterranean’s shores. Where glamour has thrived since the 1960s, this is the new and exciting chapter in Sotogrande’s tale.

u Using exquisite architecture as the foundation of a lifestyle of pure indulgence and healthy-living, La Reserva has long been the extraordinary vision for the future of Sotogrande. And now, it is fast becoming a reality too.

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The VALLey Designed to deliver the best of family living, La Reserva is now being developed to offer the ultimate Andalucian experience in its very own corner of the Mediterranean Sea. The talk of Southern Spain, the completion of ‘The Valley’ is eagerly anticipated by those in the know, for it will include the country’s first sandy-bottomed pool. The 3,000m2 pool will be split into a main pool and a 500m2 kids-only pool to ensure little ones feel safe in shallower waters. Leading the way on the Costa del Sol, both sections have been designed to be completely blanketed in sand to emulate the feeling of a soft powdery beach, in effect bringing the ocean inland. The pool’s water is to be filtered and chemical-free –the definition of indulgent refreshment with a perfectly natural twist.

Flanked by Balinese-style cabañas and including 300 South and West oriented sunbeds to maximise the sun’s warming rays, La Reserva’s beach club will offer its members unadulterated barefoot luxury.

Together with a lap pool for avid swimmers and impressive clear-water lagoon for keen sailors and watersports-enthusiasts, the construction of ‘The Valley’ will be finished by the summer of 2018 and ready to serve its exclusive members and residents the very finest of lifestyles at the water’s edge.

La Reserva honours Sotogrande’s longstanding philosophy of creating a better way of life under the balmy sunshine of southern Spain and aims to elevate it to an entirely new level in 2018. Stateof-the-art amenities have been in full swing for some time now, including impressive signature restaurant L’Olive, gym and yoga facilities, and golfing academy with the legendry Manuel Piñero.

As well, La Reserva already provides access to leisure activities such as tennis and padel on nine sunkissed courts and unbeatable play on a championship golf course. But with this year’s grand opening of the beach club, wellness spa, boat house and restaurants of delectable cuisine, the allure of this magical place is on track to reach remarkable new heights.

The ReSiDenCeS Construction is now well underway at La Gran Reserva de Sotogrande, an exclusive enclave of world-class villas nestled among Andalucia’s breath-taking landscape. As several buildings start to go up, the infrastructure for the whole area is expected to be completed in the spring of 2018. This gated collection of exceptional residences will include ‘The Seven’, a finite set of unique homes created by architecture’s top names that represent the best in contemporary lifestyles.

The construction of the first two of ‘The Seven’ is expected to commence as soon as the roads and the rest of the infrastructure are in place. On private one-hectare plots, each one has been specifically designed by an internationally renowned architect from Brazil to northern europe, to complement the beautiful scenery that surrounds it. Once complete, it will offer a sensational experience by way of the awe-inspiring interiors, premium wine cellars, gallery spaces for contemporary art collections and sheltered parking for luxury cars. Residents will also be able to enjoy home and lifestyle services from the Club Concierge. These will be homes like no other in the world, appealing to people who dream of distinctive style and ‘one-of-a-kind’ architecture.

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in november 2017, construction began on two villas, Villa infinita and Villa Tucana, among the lofty heights of el Mirador, another private gated community of six dramatic four to nine bedroom residences in view of the cobalt Mediterranean. The building of two more, Villa Dorado and Villa Roca, will start in early 2018 and the final two in the summer. There are only four of these incredible modernist homes left to purchase at prices starting from €5.8 million. interested parties should contact La Reserva’s team to arrange a viewing and revel in el Mirador’s vistas from Andalucia’s wild landscape across to a sparkling sea.

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Amid the spoils of Sotogrande, from polo to diving and everything in between, each day spent on these shores will be yours to craft and enjoy. Whether you want to splash about in sandy waters or set sail across the new lagoon in the summertime, indulge in fine dining or a game of tennis with the kids, La Reserva invites you to live, laugh and play here in the company of family and friends.

To find out more about the unique residences at The Seven or el Mirador, or to enquire about club membership at La Reserva, please contact: Tel +34 856 560 922 lareserva.residencial@sotogrande.com www.7sotogrande.com | www.lareservaclubsotogrande.com

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n Contemporary villa located in La Reserva de Sotogrande

n Villa contemporánea ubicada en La Reserva de Sotogrande

n Magnificent sea views

n Magníficas vistas al mar

n 5 bedrooms/5bath/ large open plan living/dining/ kitchen

n 5 dormitorios / 5 baños / gran salón abierto / comedor / cocina

n Plot size: 3,490 m2

n Tamaño de la parcela: 3.490 m2

n Total built area including basement: 1,800 m2

n Área construida total incluyendo sótano: 1,800 m2

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Noll & Partners with Stephanie Noll and Charles Gubbins, professionals who care!

Finest properties for sale in Sotogrande - solid experience and knowledge of the real estate market

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The inspiration of this villa comes from the great Mexican architects Luis Barragan and Ricardo Legoretta. Located in “La Reserva de Sotogrande” the property offers privacy and splendid views to the sea towards the African coast.

info@noll-sotogrande.com +34 607 911 661 www.noll-sotogrande.com +34 607 465 383

La inspiración de esta villa proviene de los grandes arquitectos mexicanos Luis Barragán y Ricardo Legoretta. Situado en “La Reserva de Sotogrande”, la propiedad ofrece privacidad y espléndidas vistas al mar hacia la costa africana.

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Into the LIon’s Den Perched on a cliff edge with picturesque views over the stunning bay of Cape Town below Lions View blends perfectly into its rural surroundings

When this two-storey Cape Town (South Africa) property, originally designed by SAOTA a decade ago, was bought by its new owners, they called for a complete renovation with increased accommodation. This left the team of modern interior designers ARRCC with a challenge that they met head-on and the end result is a statement of architectural and design excellence.

According to Mark Rielly, design architect and Jon Case, lead interior designer on this project, “the rewriting of the existing architectural language while maintaining the architectural signature was a key challenge that we had to address. To meet the client brief of more accommodation, we needed to design a third floor for the residence, adding to its stature and changing the façade substantially.”

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When approaching the entrance located at the rear of the property, the solid structure gives nothing away of the magnificence that unfolds when you enter the residence. The detail visible in the perforated vertical screens that fold away from the curved barrel of the rear faรงade, do however hint at the subtle signatures that await inside.

The rounded walls of the entrance foyer set the tone for the organically shaped interiors. Rather than being defined by blocks, the spaces inside were designed to flow and embrace the curvilinear design of the structure. When the entrance foyer opens up, the senses are simultaneously exposed to spectacular sea views and an inviting coffee lounge. In this lounge, a futuristic design approach uses Knoll Platner side chairs and striking mercury light fittings by Artemide Skydro Soffitto, emphasizing the fluid forms visible throughout.

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Moving past the coffee lounge, the understated opulence that is ingrained in the interiors becomes clear with a triple volume glass lift and surrounding circular glass and steel staircase that dominates the family lounge area.

The LED metal pendant light fitting by Quasar Citadel compliments the staircase perfectly with its circular cascade design. In contrast to the boldness of these central features, the kitchen behind is minimalistic, in line with the clean, contemporary design that the client wanted. A light, neutral palette with white walls and grey floors continue this theme.

The signature design incorporated in the perforated vertical screens outside, can be seen on screens and ceiling details on all levels of the house – a golden thread that runs throughout.

A formal dining area with walk-in wine cellar, an informal lounge and outside pool deck and BBQ area complete the ground floor. The outdoor shower ledge that transforms into a water feature that cascades into the pool and a large lawned terrace that makes way for unequalled views of the ocean, ensures that the outside is as spectacular as the inside of the residence.

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Each and every room has subtle threads of gold flowing throughout - A key signature feature 230 LUXURY LIVING

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On the second floor, a curved passage with sand blasted windows that feature the signature design pattern detail leads to the main bedroom. Timber panelling behind the bed picks up on the detail so intrinsic to the ARRCC design. The en-suite bathroom is cleverly designed with a strategically placed bath tub that projects forward and allows 180 degree views over the ocean. Two children’s bedrooms, a kids’ playroom and a guest bedroom, all en-suite, as well as a more informal pajama lounge make up the remainder of the second floor.

The third floor that was added to the existing structure accommodates a study, private gym, spa bathroom with sauna and chiller bath. Uninterrupted views add to the tranquillity of this level.

The furniture used was sourced from international brands, following the contemporary design style of the interiors. White marble, granite, brushed stainless steel and bronze elements were chosen, in contrast with white that is ever present throughout the house. The residence is almost fully automated with electronic equipment that is centrally controlled. Just another way in which ARRCC takes the details right down into every layer of design.

About ARRCC ARRCC believes in the spirited crafting of unique interiors that captivate and move. Working closely with our clients, we distil and transform their briefs to exceed original expectations. We believe in life-enhancing spaces that reflect both client and location, and through our refined approach to design, have developed a style focused on detail and substance.

Visit: www.arrcc.com | Photographer: Adam Letch 231

BLAKE SHELF 1,16 M | 45,67 in W: 64,5 | 25,39 in H: 2,35 m | 92,52 in BARDOT ARMCHAIR L: 75,2 cm | 29,61 in W: 73 cm | 28,74 in H: 79,2 cm | 31,18 in CRAIG CENTRE TABLE L: 1,12 m | 44,09 in W: 1,12m | 44,09 in H: 38 cm | 14,96 in DANDY SIDEBOARD L: 1,90 m | 74,8 in W: 50 cm | 19,69 in H: 80 cm | 31,5 in WILDE MIRROR L: 1,68 m | 66,14 in W: 30 cm | 11,81 in | H: 1,01 cm | 39,76 in KUBRICK RUG W: 2,00 m | 78,74 in L: 3,00 m | 118,11 in MIRANDA PINEAPPLE L: 1,90 m | 74,8 in W: 50cm | 19,69 in H: 80 cm | 31,5 in | BILLY BY DELIGHTFULL

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WWW.ESSENTIALHOME.EU | INFO@ESSENTIALHOME.EU | PT +351 915 509 359 | UK OFFICE +44(0) 203 592 6789

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ALMENARA, SOTOGRANDE

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A SPECTACULAR FRONT LINE GOLF ESTATE

A spectacular front line golf property with a southerly aspect. Recently completed this beautiful villa blends classic Spanish architecture with all the comfort modern living. A fabulous eat in kitchen adjoins a family/TV room, a formal dining room, drawing room and large study each accessing the large covered terrace and onto the gardens and pool area. In total there are 3 bedrooms on the first floor, 2 on the ground floor and separate apartment with bedroom, bathroom, sitting area with kitchenette. Just some of the features include are: wine cellar, cinema room, gymnasium, sauna and steam room, central heating and air conditioning in the bedrooms.

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Ref: HSN3-862

Main Features

Holmes Property Sales, S.L.

6 bed / 7 bath

Tel : +34 956 79 53 40

8.101m2 plot 1.408m2 built 173m2 terrace

email: info@holmesotogrande.com

Price:

www.holmesotogrande.com

5.700.000â‚Ź

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Bringing

LONDON property to the world

Sharing the global reach of the Harrods brand, Harrods Estates holds the key to the thriving London property market. The agency offers a broad range of services, dedicated Middle Eastern and Russian desks, as well as translators - including Mandarin speakers. Wherever a client calls home, they can access London’s most exclusive properties through Harrods Estates.

• LONDON RESIDENTIAL SALES • LONDON RESIDENTIAL LETTINGS • ACQUISITIONS • NEW DEVELOPMENTS • ASSET MANAGEMENT • PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

KNIGHTSBRIDGE OFFICE: 82 BROMPTON ROAD LONDON SW3 1ER T: +44(0)20 7225 6506 MAYFAIR OFFICE: 61 PARK LANE LONDON W1K 1QF T: +44(0)20 7409 9001 CHELSEA OFFICE: 58 FULHAM ROAD LONDON SW3 6HH T: +44(0)20 7225 6700 KENSINGTON OFFICE: 48-50 KENSINGTON CHURCH STREET LONDON W8 4DG T: +44(0)20 3650 4600

HARRODSESTATES.COM @HarrodsEstates

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Established 1897

Newly renovated twobedroom apartment in a period conversion Park Street, Mayfair W1 • Fendi ‘Ghost’ kitchen • Voluminous reception • Marble bathrooms

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GUIDE prIcE

£4,950,000 LEASEHOLD

108 years

Epc rAtInG

F

• Terrace • Air conditioning • CCTV and security system

H A R R O D S E S TAT E S . C O M

cOntAct

MAYFAIR OFFICE +44 (0)20 7409 9205 andrew.brennan@harrodsestates.com

Established 1897

A spacious, detached six-bedroom house in Wimbledon Coach House Lance, Wimbledon SW19 • Discreet residential location • Great scope to entertain • Two private garages

GUIDE prIcE

£4,200,000 FrEEHOLD

Epc ratInG

E

• Six bedrooms/five bathrooms • Potential to add value and/or extend • Southerly aspect

H A R R O D S E S TAT E S . C O M

cOntact

CHELSEA OFFICE +44 (0)20 7225 6700 francis.burca@harrodsestates.com

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Established 1897

A stunning three-bedroom flat overlooking this famous garden square Hans Place, Knightsbridge SW1 • Fabulous reception room • Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom • Two further double bedrooms

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GUIDE prIcE

£3,950,000 LEASEHOLD

APPROXIMATELY 983 years Epc rAtInG

D

• Access to private square gardens • Refurbished to highest specifications • Approx 1,219 sq ft /113.3 sq m

H A R R O D S E S TAT E S . C O M

cOntAct

KNIGHTSBRIDGE OFFICE +44 (0)20 7225 6797 reem.dougramaji@harrodsestates.com

Established 1897

A five-bedroom maisonette located in this exclusive garden square Ennismore Gardens, Knightsbridge SW7 • Two fabulous reception rooms • Master bedroom with en-suite • Four further bedrooms

GUIDE prIcE

£7,500,000 LEASEHOLD

APPROXIMATELY 99 years Epc rAtInG

D

• Kitchen Terrace & Patio • Impressive ceiling heights/period features • Approx 3,166sq ft/294 sq m

H A R R O D S E S TAT E S . C O M

cOntAct

KNIGHTSBRIDGE OFFICE +44 (0)20 7225 6506 jake.irwin-brown@harrodsestates.com

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Established 1897

A fabulous three-bedroom penthouse with stunning views across London Penthouse, Kensington W14 • Open plan reception • Roof terrace • Master suite

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GUIDE prIcE

£4,900,000 LEASEHOLD

APPROXIMATELY 995 years Epc rAtInG

B

• Pool, spa and gym facilities • 24-hour concierge and security • 2,708sq ft / 193.05sq m

H A R R O D S E S TAT E S . C O M

cOntAct

KENSINGTON OFFICE +44 (0)20 3650 4600 joel.hughes@harrodsestates.com

Established 1897

48 beautifully designed apartments in the heart of London The Sherwood, London W1

PRICES FROM

£1,300,000 LEASEHOLD

APPROXIMATELY 145 years COMPLETION

EXPEcTEd Q1 2018

• Duplex apartments with double height ceilings • Converted historic building with period façade • Feature glass atrium

• Harrods Estates concierge • Penthouses with city views • New Development by the Crown Estate

H A R R O D S E S TAT E S . C O M

CONTACT

NEW DEVELOPMENTS +44 (0)20 7409 9001 christian.demeillac@harrodsestates.com

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ALBERT COURT u Home to Howard Carter, the great archaeologist and discoverer of King Tutankhamun

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Directly adjacent to the Royal Albert Hall and the Royal College of Music, sits the prestigious Grade II listed building, Albert Court. One of London’s first purpose-built mansion blocks, this remarkable Victorian building boasts an array of distinguished residents including the world-famous British Archaeologist, Howard Carter.

Set on the first and second floors of Albert Court lies a magnificent five-bedroom apartment spanning over 4,340 sq.ft. Originally two separate apartments, this imposing duplex boasts grand proportions, a south facing aspect and access to the building’s discrete concierge service. The property is on the market with leading prime London estate agents Russell Simpson for £9.75m.

Howard Carter, Albert Court’s most illustrious resident, was born and raised in Kensington before heading to Egypt at the tender age of 17. Carter found work as an artist for an archaeologist who needed someone to document his findings, and in 1891 he began working on the Egypt Exploration Fund’s excavation of the tombs at Beni Hassan. In 1907, Carter was hired by English aristocrat Lord Carnarvon to lead an excavation of Egyptian nobles’ tombs. In 1914, he received the license to dig at the Valley of the Kings, which they believed to be the location of King Tutankhamun’s tomb.

In November 1922, Carter and his team uncovered a flight of steps leading down to a sealed door and a secret chamber. Three months later, Carter and Lord Carnarvon entered the innermost chamber and found the sarcophagus of King Tutankhamun, which up until then, lay undisturbed for over 3,000 years. “King Tut’s” burial chamber was filled with over 5,000 artefacts for his journey to the afterlife; oils, perfumes, previous jewellery and statues of gold and ebony. Described as the “archaeological triumph of the 20th century”, Carter’s incredible discovery enthralled the world; a craze of “Tut-mania” taking over the west.

The clearance of King Tutankhamun’s took nearly 10 years. Many of the recovered artefacts went on tour to museums around the world, including The British Museum in 1972. This exhibition remains the most popular in the museum’s history. Upon his return from Egypt, Carter retired from archaeology, acting as an agent for many museums and private collectors around the globe. He lived in his flat, No.49 Albert Court until his death in 1939.

Leo Russell, Head of Flat Sales at Russell Simpson, comments; “Albert Court is one of London’s finest residential buildings. The building is absolutely brimming with history; not only has it housed many famous residents over the years, but it has also been used as a film set and as an RAF base during WWII. The apartment itself is one of the finest on the market. The ceiling heights, grand proportions and exquisite interiors are reminiscent of a time gone by and we expect it to attract a lot of attention”.

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The construction of Albert Court started in 1890, but in 1892 with only built four floors, the project ground to a halt. Construction resumed in 1984, but a “bankruptcy line” became visible where the construction continued, with the lowest four levels boasting higher ceilings, more expensive detailing and larger floor plates than those above.

Set within this lower section lies a duplex apartment, offering ideal family accommodation, stunning entertaining space and elegant interiors.

The apartment’s upper floor comprises a magnificent south-facing, double reception room, sleek adjoining kitchen and balcony overlooking the beautiful Royal College of Music. This unique entertaining space boasts 4-metre high ceilings, excellent natural light, intricate cornicing, fireplace and delicate chandeliers. From the balcony, residents can often enjoy the musical offerings of the Royal College of Music.

Off the entrance hall lies a classic book-lined study, guest bedroom with en-suite, office/5th bedroom, bathroom and guest WC. The lower floor is home to a spacious master bedroom suite and two further guest bedrooms. Albert Court residents also benefit from lift access and a first-class concierge and security service located in the breath-taking entrance lobby.

Albert Court is located next to the world famous Royal Albert Hall and moments away from the entrance to Kensington Gardens and the greenery of Hyde Park, as well as an abundance of shops, restaurants and art galleries.

The spectacular property is available at £9,750,000. For further information, contact Russell Simpson on 020 7225 0277 or visit www.russellsimpson.co.uk

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Construction & Reforms

BUILDING THE FUTURE

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Established since 2005 we specialize in Modern and Contemporary architecture

Urban Planning

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Project Management

-

Interior Design

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BLACK BADGE CHASE THE NIGHT

Black Badge is an intoxicating incarnation of the Rolls-Royce marque.

A fearless statement of defiance, a darker aesthetic, an irresistible aura.

Invoke the power of the night behind the wheel and surge effortlessly in the shade of daring luxury.

Embrace your bolder side.

Š Copyright Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Limited 2017. The Rolls-Royce name and logo are registered trademarks.

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