The Review - Alicia Agneson

Story by Florean Smout

Story by Benjamin Norris

Story by Peter J Robinson

Story by Henley & Partners

Story by Aaron Edgeworth

Story by Lucy Wright

Story by Rose Mazillius

Photography by Greg Williams

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The frost has thawed, the mercury rises, and the trees have done their yearly trick of becoming new. The awakening of spring has dynamised the efforts behind putting together this latest issue of The Review, seeing our core staff returning from locations both far and near, and striding homeward through the various stages of giddy grief that flow alongside the very best kind of hangovers - those which, amid the fog and mild palpitations, serve as a reminder that good times have been had.

First, a pondering. In the wake of the latest constellation of Michelin stars being handed out to those serving righteousness on plates, slates and slabs of granite, there was the usual murmuring throughout both the press and wider society, decrying the usual suspects of elitism and exclusivity. It led me to thinkingwhen did the word ‘elite’ become taboo amid certain swathes of the populous? When did we cease looking up to mastery, celebrating finesse borne of tradition and innovation, toasting the graft required to reach the top?

We’re living in unusual times, driven - perhaps not surprisingly - by the ever-widening chasms in the societies we share. The understandable craving for authenticity in the places we travel to, the clothing we wear, the dishes we eat and the experiences we indulge in has eroded the ability of some to enjoy sheer, unrivalled and uncurtailed excellence. However, to revel in life’s finer things and to seize upon opportunities for delight is not to punch downward. To respect talent and beauty, artisanship and escapism is not to sneer at the everyday.

At The Review, we seek out the pinnacles of achievement - in motoring, hospitality, fashion, food and beyond - not to exist in an ivory tower, but rather to rejoice in all life’s wonderment.

Benjamin Norris Lifestyle Editor

And what wonderment there is to behold. Against a backdrop of yet more change and even more staying the same - a coronation and a new era for England awaits, strikers are striking, the markets teeter and totter as we hold our breath - we’ve once again been diving headfirst into the locations, events and happenings that matter. Rising star of television epics and indie cinematic gems alike, Alicia Agneson, leads the charge. She’s injecting our pages and our lives with some much-needed glamour, paired with insights into a remarkable burgeoning career as actress, activist and all-round name to get familiarised with. Peter Robinson has been doing what he does best, lifting the lid on more coveted cars, bars and spectacular scenery. Our global travel editor, Sarah Morgan, basked in the majesty of Canada’s most paradisiacal bucket list contender, and we’ve got deep dives into a bold new era of healthcare in Istanbul. We’ve jetted off to Puerto Rico and Vietnam, San Francisco and Tuscany, and delved into homegrown institutions from Royal Ascot to Sloane Place.

I was fortunate enough to head to Ireland’s latest Michelin-busting restaurant, for an unquestionably elite encounter with excellence that started like The Menu but had a far, far happier ending. Our motoring editorial has maintained its unrivalled winning streak, thanks to explorations of arguably the greatest names the industry has to offer… and we’ve got fashion, viticulture, curated lists of unmissable products, financial, style and property covered, too. Surely you’d expect nothing less.

The best part? The year’s barely begun. Let’s make it an elite one packed to the gills with the best life has to offer - after the last few, we all surely deserve the indulgence.

the agenda

P-66 P-74

TRAVEL SIRRETI P-86

INTERIORS LUSSO

P-96

P-100

P-112

BEAUTY A MONTH IN THE BAG

MARINE ROLEX SWAN CUP

EVENT

DUNHILL FASHION ALPINE ESCAPE

AUTOMOTIVE PEMBLETON

P-166

EVENT MONACO GP P-173

AUTOMOTIVE FLYING SPUR

P-178

HEALTH ACIBADEM

P-206

FASHION

SVENJA AVA FRAGRANCE SCENTS OF DIRECTION

P-209

P-250

Born in the alps, bound for the world.

Contributors

Gregarious, opinionated, and a destroyer of cocktail menus, Aaron provides automotive content stemming from years of passion and work in the industry. A keen eye for design and a horder of factoids are combined with a love of architecture, good food and the occasional party. Mostly found avoiding public settings.

Lake is a makeup artist, hair stylist, model and creative director. She comes to the table with over a decade of knowledge in the industry. When she’s not on set or in a meeting, she’s in a yoga class, checking out a new restaurant or exploring the menu of a cocktail bar, in the pursuit of the perfect Negroni.

Sarah’s career spans three decades across travel, hospitality and leisure campaigning. When she’s not in the capital consulting for the travel industry, she’s working on launching a new travel series. With a firm belief in holistic therapy and healthy living (well, to a point), a yoga retreat in some exotic, far-flung place is never far away.

Norris is a copywriter and journalist from Bristol, England. He works regularly with some of the world’s leading luxury brands, and splits his time between the UK, Germany and Hungary. Norris also has a penchant for Alsatian wines and dodgy 80s synthpop.

Robinson is The Review’s managing editor. Having spent the last decade spanning both visual and print media, he has filed interviews across the political spectrum with the likes of Sir David Frost and Donald Trump. Robinson founded the magazine’s sister company, Screaming Eagle Productions, in 2015.

Roger is a proud child of two Hong Kong immigrants, born and raised in Essex. His passion for cars was spaked by his father, supported by film and video game franchises of the late ‘90s and ‘00s. His love affair with food stared similarly with Chinese cooking prevalent throughout his childhood. Chan is now a London based photojournalist and content creator working with brands such as Michelin, McLaren and BMW.

Automotive kingmaker Ian Digman’s illustrious career spans over four decades and includes senior roles at Ford, Volvo, Nissan, INFINITI and, most recently, McLaren. That’s when he isn’t giving guest lectures on engineering excellence.

Digman will be writing a regular column for The Review on anything with wheels.

When she’s not in the UK designing luxury travel itineraries for her exclusive clientele, you might find her relaxing at home in the Dutch Lowlands. In addition to pursuing her appetite for culinary and cultural experiences, a full-time job we’re told, Florean splits her time between The Review’s Travel and Style teams.

After graduating from Goldsmiths Rose began a professional career in the arts at The Royal West of England Academy, Arnolfini, Victoria and Albert Museum and the Whitechapel Gallery. Rose joins the team this year to bring you her pick of the worlds finest art exhibitions, auctions and museum tours.

L’homme, le mythe, le Monekene. Marvin is a Development Producer covering the French Riviera and Paris working with a host of documentary and commercial clients. When he’s not on set, you’ll find him indulging in fast cars and fine food.

SARAH MORGAN GLOBAL TRAVEL EDITOR

ROGER CHAN FEATURES WRITER

ROSE MAZILLIUS FEATURES WRITER

AARON EDGEWORTH MOTORING EDITOR

PETER J ROBINSON MANAGING EDITOR

NAOMI LAKE BEAUTY EDITOR

BENJAMIN NORRIS LIFESTYLE EDITOR

IAN DIGMAN CONTRIBUTOR

MARVIN MONEKENE DEVELOPMENT PRODUCER

FLOREAN SMOUT ASSISTANT TRAVEL EDITOR

Alicia Agneson

Photography: Barney Oates

Words: Benjamin Norris - Lifestyle Editor

HMUA: Naomi Lake Stylist: Laura Moss

Location: The Other House

Alicia Agneson, star of the much-loved epic series Vikings, as well as feature films including Little Kingdom and indie gems Clark and The Grand Duke of Corsica, is unfashionably punctual for her meeting with The Review.

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She’s already sitting in the lobby of The Other House - a quintessential South Kensington hotel indulging in no shortage of breathless LA-inspired interiors - flashing her signature mischievous smile, and awaiting the team for a shoot that will explore her bohemian quirks, love of Golden Age glamour and a barely-concealed rock ‘n’ roll sensibility. From the first catch of the eye to the last clink of wine glasses and industry insights, it’s an appointment that fizzes and crackles with all the right vibes.

It’s been a busy period for Alicia. After diving head-first into television, cinema, music and an all-round approach to showbusiness from

a tender age, she’s barely paused for breath. Non-stop castings, bookings with leading fashion houses - she proudly shows us photos of a particularly racy Mugler one-piece she’ll

don at the upcoming Elle Gala in Stockholm - and an array of roles have made her one to watch for the past few years. Her appearance in Clark - Netflix’s runaway Swedish-language hit miniseries from 2022 - gave plenty of clues as to the directions Alicia is keen to take, and her blatant ambition suggests there’s plenty more to come.

However, there’s fathoms of depth to this diminutive Swede beyond her elfin beauty, fluting voice and clear acting chops. From her unwavering insistence on never wearing newlybought garments - a personal stand against the world of fast fashion, inspired by work with modern-day slavery charities - to an array of humanitarian passions, and from on-set medic-bothering approaches to method acting

to living fearlessly, there’s no doubt Alicia Agneson is a rapidly rising star and a veritable triple threat.

Let’s talk about Clark, which I was delighted to sit down to binge upon last week. It looked like a huge amount of fun to make.

It was, although the miniseries (in which Alicia pairs up with Bill Skarsgård in telling the compellingly absurd tale of superstar Swedish criminal Clark Olofsson) was shot in Lithuania

during the pandemic, and we were travelling back and forth from London, Stockholm and Lithuania, quarantining on either side each time.

It was fascinating to work with director Jonas Akerlund - his vision was this mad, fast-paced and quirky way of telling the story. I played Kicki - the first victim of Stockholm Syndromeand it was so interesting to really delve into what that means and what it requires of an actor. She’s still alive, so it was the first time I had the

opportunity to mimic an accent and work to do the real person behind the role justice.

It was hugely stylish, and gleefully different from what we in the UK have come to expect from a Swedish drama…

Exactly, and that’s why I wanted to do it, really. It was fast-paced, colourful… it was worlds away from a dark crime drama. Jonas is so out-there and bold, and as soon I heard about it, I knew I wanted to be involved. Everything about it, from

“It was fascinating to work with director Jonas Akerlund - his vision was this mad, fastpaced and quirky way of telling the story.”

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the costumes to the way the story was told, was intended to be something completely different. It’s crazy to think that it all really happened; it’s a mad story, and Bill did an amazing job of portraying this bizarre character.

Speaking of costumes and characters, you were brilliantly cast in Vikings (fan favourite Alicia embodied two different roles, and relocated to Ireland for several years to immerse herself in the long-running production). Are these epic period series as physically demanding as they look?

I was cast in Vikings when I was really quite young, just 19. Yes - aspects of it were demanding. The costumes were intended to be as realistic as possible, so we were often very,

very cold when shooting outside in Ireland. The team wanted the audience to feel the dirt and chill and textures of those times; it’s part of what made the series so authentic.

One of the characters I played came to a violent death by strangling. I felt the only way it could really work as an ending and to go out with a ‘bang’ was if (co-star) Alex Hogh Andersen actually strangled me; the paramedics on set weren’t happy with it, but I really pushed for it to happen. I was walking around the hotel afterwards with broken skin around my neck, getting some very strange looks… but it definitely made the right impact as an ending. Good fun! Glamorous.

It’s an amazing industry, and one I feel lucky to be part of. But I’m always keen to tell young women and girls I speak to that acting isn’t as glamorous as it might appear. It’s easy to see the red carpets and photoshoots, but it’s such a small part of what’s needed to make it work in this industry.

People might be surprised to hear you’re also involved in music. There are some great videos online of you singing, and really leaning into this jazz-age Hollywood glamour.

I love it. I’m really glad I’m casting a lot more for singing roles, because I’d love to keep doing that. I actually performed at a charity gala for Ukraine a few weeks ago, I sang ‘Anthem’

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from Chess. I was so nervous as I haven’t sung in public for years. But it’s the most amazing feeling, to hold a room and express that side of myself.

I was very theatrical as a child, and I loved singing and was involved in musical theatre from the age of four. It goes back to my love of old movies, and as a child I really lived through these musical escapist fantasies while picking mushrooms in the forest. It was amazing having that freedom of imagination at that age, in that place.

Alicia’s social media pages are highly active, as befits a woman in her current state of ascendance. Reels of her exploring the corners of London she calls home, plenty of dog content

and BTS shots of various shoots abound. One factor remains consistent throughout - she’s always dressed to make an impact. We’re not talking endless skeins of haute couture (although she’s clearly no stranger to the headiest heights of high fashion), but rather a clear love for clothes, for looks, and for the kind of self-expression that comes from a fearless approach to fashion.

You’re clearly a woman with a razor-sharp sense of style. Who or what inspires you when it comes to clothes?

I adore the mix between the old Hollywood glamour and an edgy, contemporary look - a vintage Chanel jacket with sneakers, or a lace gown with cowboy boots. I’ve always had a

contrasting personality: the country girl and city girl, she who loves shooting and being on set and she who loves being alone on a farm, getting muddy and not seeing anyone.

That reflects your rural background, right?

Yes - I grew up on a farm. No neighbours, no outside influences other than movies and an escapist idea of glamour; that Golden Age of Hollywood aesthetic definitely shone through.

Does your childhood on the family farm feed into your sustainability ethos?

For sure. Coming from a farm, and coming from a country such as Sweden - where people are generally environmentally-friendly in their

BLACK SEQUIN SHIRT BY MICHELE HOPE; VELVET FLARES BY TOMMY HILFIGER X ZENDAYA; CIRCUS HOOP EARRINGS AND BEACH NECKLACE BY BOODLES

way of thinking - I’ve always taken care of what I have. I grew up with a mentally of living sustainably, and this informed my opinions and imagination when it comes to clothes.

I used to steal pieces from my grandmother’s and mother’s wardrobe, and I’ve forever loved the unique nature - and fit - of vintage and second-hand clothes, and they’ve allowed me to express myself. When I moved to London at 15, I was a struggling actress. I would vintagehunt in charity shops and find stunning gowns, which I’d then wear to events. At that point, I started wondering why on Earth I’d ever start buying new clothes.

When I started working with charities focused on sustainability, I realised I had to do something with my platform; I didn’t want to be just another influencer with pretty pictures. I wanted to make the most of the responsibility of having people following me, and went public with the statement that I would no longer buy newly-produced clothes. I went on to work with Hope For Justice (a charity that works to tackle modern-day slavery), which really lifted the lid on the retail industry, and the exploitation and environmental damage at its heart. I was horrified, and understood the personal responsibility we all have when it comes to making a change.

Of course, there are some fantastic fashion brands working sustainably and striving to

make a change. But the difference between ‘fashion’ and ‘fast fashion’ is something we should all understand.

It’s clear there’s been a tonal shift in the conversation. With her boundless energy and the easy flow of conversation, it’s easy to forget that there’s a deep-running humanitarian vein to Alicia’s multitudinous passions, which is utterly central to who she is and what she does. She’s spoken often - in podcasts, interviews and via her personal channels - on her recent trips to Ukraine, pushing for donations and activism on the front lines of the war that has shaken Europe.

How did you get involved with the NGOs you worked with in Ukraine?

I’ve always believed that if you can help, you should help - whatever that is, and whatever that may look like.

When the war broke out, I knew that there would be many, many people in need. I started by donating, and then I felt it simply wasn’t enough. I had a break from shooting before Christmas, and spoke to my friend who started Operation Aid, a Swedish charity focused on delivering aid where it’s needed most. They needed someone to drive a truck of donations to the front lines in Ukraine, and I happen to be a very good driver.

When we got there, people were deeply struggling - it’s a war zone, and you enter at your own risk. They’ve struggled to find volunteers willing to drive to the villages on the front lines and deliver donations; I put my hand up, and spent time driving around the Kherson region distributing food boxes, women’s sanitary products, Christmas presents for kids, stoves and firewood. I returned after Christmas to do the same again, and I’m in awe of everyone down there and doing incredible work. Every donation, no matter how small, makes a change.

It’s also important for everyone to remind themselves of how much we take for granted. For weeks after returning, I felt emotional every time I realised how lucky I was to drink clean water or sleep in a warm bed. These are things not everyone has access to, and this war has shown how these privileges can vanish so quickly.

We relocate to the hotel bar following a shoot that took in a plethora of costume changes, locations and moods, swinging somewhere between Rita Hayworth and Alice in Wonderland via 90’s hip-hop and Studio 54. Glasses are clinked, Alicia leans in and we talk at length about tragic Hollywood starlets, favourite Bollywood movies, London life, signature drinks and world-changing charities. Global travel, jet lag. Cabbages and kings. I could do this for hours, but the clock relentlessly ticks.

Is it true you don’t have a computer?

You know what, I get asked this a lot. Why would I ever get a computer? I’m passionate about learning, but dropped out of school quite young and moved to London at 15, in order to start working straight away.

Not having a computer allows me to trick my mind a little. I love how special it still is to hold a physical book, to turn those pages. It’s the same with scripts - I need a thick paper script, covered with scribbled notes and sticker tabs. No computers for me!

The movies, the music, the philanthropy, the fashion - are these all equal aspects of your personality, or do they require slightly different personas?

They’re just parts of me. One thing I say about sustainability and my charity work is that it’s never really a choice: it’s just what I feel driven to do, and I’ve always been that way. I believe in being unafraid, in embracing that drive and not being afraid to fail.

If it’s a choice, it’s already a struggle.

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THE ULTIMAE SWAN

Words: Aaron Edgeworth - Motoring Editor

Photography: Roger Chan

Some things in life transcend their oeuvre. Some objectively, work. I’m not even really taking in performance or quality or the like, but they

SWAN SONG

Film: Screaming Eagle Productions Chan

Some things in life that the wider sense of they just ‘work’.

PUSH PLAY TO WATCH THE FILM

Igrew up a Lamborghini fanboy. I’m pretty sure I’ve admitted that before when I was granted access to the wonderful Urus. But I should probably reinforce and delve a little deeper here before I venture into the meat of this editorial. I was born on a balmy summer’s day in August 1981. Charles had just Married Diana, Elvis was dead. I only mention the latter as it occurred four years previously to the day. A further disappointment is that I share a birthday with Madonna, but that’s another rant for another time.

Anyway, it’s the 80’s: Wall Street and The City thrived, the yuppy was born. Cocaine was all the rage and the car market represented this excess well. Porsche’s technological marvel in the 959. Ferrari with the timeless F40. But what adorned my walls? What was the object of my desires? The Lamborghini Countach.

Why? Why was that my car of choice for my childhood bedroom decor, despite being older, slower, and heavier than the newer rivals? Because it just worked. Not knowing about turbochargers, Haldex four-wheel drive systems, or anti-lock brakes - Christ, I

probably barely know more now. But one thing I did know was what looked cool. What I could associate with. We all drew cars as children - not in a weird anthropomorphic way but in the most basic form. What looked fast? Right angle triangle with four wheels. Done. Maybe a crudely rendered spoiler if feeling arty. I mean, come on, that’s basically the Countach 25th Anniversary. As such, there was instant allure. Sure, I still loved all cars. From visiting the Peugeot dealership 400 yards down from my childhood home to convincing my father to walk the halls of Earls Court for the Motorshow; I loved it all. But Lamborghini was always the one.

The ’80s became the 90’s. Fashion and music arguably somehow got worse. In fact, considering we are seemingly in the midst of a ’90s fashion revival, I can confidently say it did indeed get worse. The world saw the Gulf War, Madonna was still thriving. Euuurrghh. In the automotive world, new players had entered the fore everywhere. Jaguar made the Xj220 and weird American things like the Vector W9. Tiger Woods. It was all change. What was Lamborghini making? The Diablo. Right angle triangle, four wheels, adding a wing if feeling arty. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.

Fast forward another decade. Now we’ve

survived the Millennium Bug, and we genuinely thought that the world would end because we didn’t know if our clocks would tick over to 2000. Can you imagine - in a world where my iPhone knows what time it is better than I do no matter where on Earth I am, there was a time when we all thought civilisation was on the brink because of a quirk of digitisation and the calendar. Spicemania was a thing, apparently. Oil money was definitely becoming a thing. There’s another Gulf War. What else? Fresh from PlayStation fame and movie franchises, Japanese weaponry is a la mode. Nissan R34 GTR V Spec Skylines. Ferrari goes 355 to 360. Porsche makes the marvellous V10 Carrera GT. What’s going on at Sant Agata? Murcielago. Right angle triangle, four wheels, add a spoiler if feeling arty.

Some. Things. Just. Work.

It’s suddenly 2011 and we have the introduction of the car that changed it all, simply by not changing a thing. The car - wait, the supercar - for all people, all places. The car that no one need know anything about to covet: The Aventador. Starting deliveries at the back end of 2011, by 2016, Lamborghini had produced some 5000 units. That’s huge. Huge numbers not just for the manufacturer,

but for a product of that type. At the end of production, those numbers will be knocking on for 11,500. Some things just work.

It’s now 2023. Music is strange. People, stranger still. We have progressed or regressed into a strange world, unlike any era that has gone before. Gender debate, Crypto and NFTs. It’s all change. Although, cocaine is all the rage; Oil money is bigger than ever and as I’ve said, fashion is shocking. So maybe not that much has changed. We still have the Aventador, though now very much in its swansong. That comes in the form of the Ultimae. Available in both coupe and roadster form, but limited to 600 units worldwide. It’s basically a less showy SVJ. An SVJ without wings. Does that make it less ‘Lamborghini’? I can only wait and find out.

This one has been a long time in the making. In the waiting. The painful wait. The anticipation. The ‘my editor doesn’t believe it’s even coming’. Then the email arrived.

It’s happening.

The Ultimae. The Lamborghini Aventador Ultimae LP780-4 coupe. The press example is presented in Grigio Acheso, an option colour and finish. Contrasted by matte carbon fibre

adornments and some contrast black accents, the car is menacing in the extreme. Physically smaller than expected, but no less presence. The colour further evokes the fighter jet styling cues that followed through from the Reventon of 2009. My excitement is peaking. The moment is coming.

I slip my slightly clammy hand gingerly into the slot, ease some pressure and pull gently skyward. That scissor-door entry is nothing less than muted pornography. So effortless in its execution, it’s part of the recipe that makes the Aventador just that little bit more special. I slide into the cockpit, a word you find yourself using in place of cabin unconsciously a lot of

the time. The first thing one notices is that there are a lot of buttons. I mean, a lot of buttons. Adjusting to the setting, the cabin is awash with carbon fibre and Alcantara as is de rigeur in these circles and part of the more formulaic aspects of the car.

From the windscreen, rear screen and side windows, one can see out of all of them. I flick the red ignition protector and apply a soft touch to the button. The electronics fire and there is a slight whirr as the car comes to life. I go to connect my phone and input my home address. I’m tapping the screen - a screen small enough that I probably should have known better. Toggle inputs. Ok. Ok. I then hard press and fire her up and all is forgiven. The world is saved. All our sins, forgotten. That thunderous naturally aspirated V12 powerhouse comes to life, and I’m instantly returned to my bedroom wall. In a fog of delirium. Giddy from the sheer theatre of the whole thing, I trundle jerkily through the poorly tarmacked business park roads of a site near Hatfield we shall dub ‘Supercar Alley’, now being home to the great and the good of retail automotive. Jerkily is correct and I hasten to rectify that as I realised, I must be in manual and the recalcitrant gearbox is lurching at my inactivity. I MUST be. Nope, the fat capitalised digital ‘A’ in the midst of

“there was a king present in that car park, and it wasn’t me”

the digital cluster almost mocking me. Ok. Ok.

I think it best that we deal with the less wonderful aspects of the car quickly, methodically, executioner style. I’ll say now, these are trifling things and perhaps in 2023, it’s the Aventador’s success that makes for a few of the issues, such as a decade-old gearbox and infotainment system. The seating position is not great, and the pedals ask for size 39, five foot four feet, not size 44, five foot eleven clown shoes. Visibility is not great. What’s more, one needs to employ Nureyev levels of flexibility and poise to angle oneself, shoulders fully free of the window, in a kind of Punch and Judy pose where you’re one of the puppets. Waist down, one is very much in the car. Waist up, less so. The position of some of the lesser-needed switchgear and levers was also somewhat of a bugbear. Need to change the info displayed to you from the central instrument binnacle? Simple. Google, ‘how do I change the info displayed on an Aventador’s Dash?’ Then search about seven entries down and there is a comment from a forum thread. There you can find the info you need. Turns out, on the underside of the right stalk, there is a button. Press that four times… So, intuitive it may not be. But I am not here for the instrument cluster or even the visibility. I’m here for the whole package.

What one should do is juxtapose that with everything else that the car brings. Simply put, it’s my favourite thing that I have driven, by a country mile. A city mile. A desert mile. A tundra mile. A nautical mile. A space mile. By any distance one cares to measure, be it metric or imperial, there is nothing that has grabbed me like the Aventador. They say to buy a car that you look back at when you walk away. Look back at? I was parking exclusively outside coffee shops so I at least had a drink to occupy the 14 minutes I would invariably stand staring at her. Because that is what people do. They stare. I stare. We all stare. I would return to the car and there would always be a crowd. Always. Because as I said, one doesn’t even need to know the importance of that raging bull. Or the storied history of Sant Agata, to know that they want one. They want one because they drew one once. A right-angle triangle, with four wheels. They may well have added a spoiler should they have been feeling arty.

I had ventured back to the West Country for the weekend. I say ventured back, but I am from London and it’s my fiancée that lays claim to the more cider-based aspects of our life. That being said, eager to soak in more of the car (and perhaps the stares) I googled ‘car meet near me’.

The danger of these things is that one arrives at a Tesco car park surrounded by a throng of barely legal people doing barely legal things in cars that should be illegal. However, there was a Sunday breakfast meet at a pub a mere two miles from my in-Law’s house. 8.30 am. Coffee and bacon rolls available. In fairness, they had me at ‘pub’. So on a blisteringly cold Sunday morning in the village of Old Sodbury, I cold started that V12 lump and provided the most sonorous alarm clock the sleepy village had heard in a long time. Frost dappled the trees and that early morning sun broke through the mist as I trundled out of the driveway. Hold first gear just that little bit longer than necessary and one is treated to the most glorious of howls. If slightly more spirited through the revs that change into second, you’ll unleash a whip crack so fierce it gave me chills the first time it hit. As an aside, that’s another reason why I love it so much. Everything, as Spinal Tap would say, is turned up to 11.

The great thing about these provincial car meets is that they’re the world’s great equaliser. One arrives in anything and all revel in the shared love of metal and motor. Then you turn up in a Lamborghini Aventador Ultimae LP780-4 and the world isn’t quite

so ecumenical it seems. I am always quick to contextualise my position and advise that the car isn’t, in fact, mine. I waited to introduce this information however, as I felt a nod to my next-door neighbour, opening both of those almost sexual doors and walking off to grab myself a coffee would be more impactful to say the least. I returned, warmed physically by the coffee in hand, and emotionally by the throng that had inevitably gathered. Photos were taken, chats were had, revs were made. It was fun for all in attendance. For reference, we’re talking about a 987 Porsche Boxster, a Honda S2000, two Mazda MX-5, and A beautiful one-owner Volkswagen Golf GTi mark I. All great things without doubt, but there was a king present in that car park, and it wasn’t me.

I should get to talking about the car. As the name suggests, this is the Ultimate of the Aventador lineage. From the original LP700-4, not a huge amount has changed. The Aventador still boasts a naturally aspirated V12 and a Haldex four-wheel drive system mated to an ISR 7-speed gearbox. Numbers have increased through the line, as the model moved to SV, S, SVJ, and finally, the Ultimae. Bore has increased to 6.5 litres, and the power has increased to 780bhp. Push rod magnetorheological active front and rear suspension with horizontal dampers and

springs provide the stability, and braking is provided by quite prodigious carbon-ceramic disks with 6 pistons at the front and 4 at the rear. Stopping is almost more important in the Aventador because there is the constant desire to stretch her legs, to hear that howl, and to soak in the sheer physicality of the car. Acceleration is addictive. Genuinely. And speed isn’t the most important factor. Whilst the 0-62 sprint is dispatched in just 2.8 seconds, the thrill comes in almost any gear at almost any speed. Drop a gear, hell - drop two or three - and one doesn’t even need to floor it. By feeding the throttle, the car comes alive and can be dictated to through the fast pedal as well as the wheel.

The Ultimae is as fast as it looks with a real stomach-churning visceral experience under hard acceleration. The four-wheel drive system hooks up almost effortlessly and flings the occupants vast distances down the road. A dry weight of 1,550kg - thanks to the carbon-fibre monocoque and despite a length of some 5 metres and a width of well over two metres - it never feels portly. Whilst it may not be as lithe through the twists as other cars, one can wrestle her efficiently along 99.9% of public roads. At six-tenths, it provides more outright entertainment than anything else, and those idiosyncrasies we talked about earlier become

part of the charm. In other cars, they could be a chore. The inefficiency of the gearbox against 2023 rivals could be the rod to beat the Aventador with, but instead, it’s a quirk that contributes to the overall package, warts and all.

Note I said, ‘other cars’, not rivals. That, I feel, is an important distinction. I am not sure that it has rivals in a traditional sense. The Aventador is a choice unlike any other in automotive. It’s not a question of what to buy in the segment. One buys an Aventador not as a track weapon or as a garage queen, but because they want one, and only this car will do. I have said before that speed has become somewhat sanitised in recent times. The various exotica that used to wear monikers such as ‘widowmaker’, have become hugely fast and capable machines, yet boast barely 7% of the fear factor they used to wear as badges of honour. That also means that they have become massively usable. It is not more difficult to run, for example, a Ferrari F8 than a Volvo V90. Where one would have to spend hundreds of thousands to achieve sub-four-second 0-62 sprints previously, that’s now achievable at circa 60k with the Mercedes A45 S.

What keeps the Aventador special is that it’s

special. Every time you walk up and open that door it’s an event. The two kids up the road from my in-laws bugged me all weekend as though I was a contemporary - ‘Is the guy with the Lamborghini home? Can he come out and play?’ Countless of the public in Bristol, Old Sodbury, London and my corner of Surrey revelled in the car, whether petrolheads or not. Did it live up to expectations? It flew past them. Any reticence felt in the first ten minutes melted away to nothingness and all I longed to do was drive her. It’s the ultimate

recipe for a supercar: an unnecessarily large V12. Thunderous exhaust system. Low and imposing. Pointed nose. It has it all.

With the demise of cars that are seemingly dinosaurs in today’s age of hybridisation and smaller and smaller capacities, it will be interesting to see where Lamborghini goes with its replacement. A couple of things I would wager though. Right angle triangle. Four wheels. They may even add a spoiler if they’re feeling arty.

Specifications

ENGINE: V12, 60°, MPI

0-60: 2.8s

HORSE POWER: 770

MAX TORQUE: 720 Nm

LENGTH/WIDTH/HEIGHT: 4,868 mm, 2,098 mm, 1,136 mm

WEIGHT: 1,550 kg

GEARBOX: ISR gearbox with 7 speeds

TOP SPEED: 220mph

AESTHETIC HARMONICS

Words:

AESTHETIC HARMONICS

Words: Peter Robinson Film: Still Moving Media

uality, innovation and - by god, in this case - style. Casio’s reputation precedes it when it comes to its product development and, crucially, its product refinement. Their first electronic keyboard, The Casiotone CT-201, was birthed by Toshio Kashio and his team in January 1980. As was indicative of the style stakes at the time, the gentlemanly pipe-smoking Kashio encased the CT-201 in wood and allowed the natural grain to remain. It weighed about seven kilos, was almost a metre long and recreated 29 different instruments. Of course, I want one.

The goal of the project? To convey to people the joys of music. To democratise it. To give the masses, regardless of their country, generation or skill level the pleasure of playing musical instruments. Toshio was, of course, a music lover - he simply wanted to reproduce the sounds of a range of instruments that were typically very difficult to play and master. His philosophy of inventing was “creating something from nothing, something never seen before.” I doubt Kashio could have imagined the impact the company’s keyboards, pianos and synthesisers would go on to have.

It was the pocket-sized VL-1, or VL-Tone that really cemented Casio’s place in musical history. The VL-1 came with five instrument settings,

pre-programmed rhythms, could play up to 100 different notes and gave the user the ability to alter the pitch within two-and-a-half octaves. You could even record your tracks and plug the whole system into an amp or hifi. It was lauded by The Human League, Lady Gaga and Depeche Mode, and gave birth to the SK-1, the MT-30 and MT-500 that in turn gave us the Sleng Teng beat and the chord sequence to Pulp’s Common People.

Casio has continued to introduce new technology and features to its keyboards and pianos over the years; the Tri-sensor Scaled Hammer Action Keyboard II and the AiR Sound Source are but a few from a long list. However, it’s their flagship Privia PX-S7000 that caught The Review team’s eye this year. Aesthetically

we’ve never seen anything quite like it. It’s a statement piece by all definitions, a true work of craftsmanship breaking new ground in digital piano design. Clean lines, incredible acoustics, it’s an instant heavy hitter in the high-end digital piano market. Those are just some of the reasons why we decided to put the Privia PX-S7000 in the hands of virtuoso Stephen Sims for our latest shoot with the Lamborghini Aventador LP 780-4 Ultimae.

Having worked with Sony composer, producer and singer Stephen on numerous productions over the last decade, I can confidently say our Composer - Producer relationship is unique. He’s one of the few Music Producers I make time to work on post-production with in person.

Stephen’s brief wasn’t exactly lightweight for the Lamborghini trailer edit. Not because of the compositional elements, but more because of the sheer weight of the release from the team in Sant’Agata. After all, The Ultimae is Lamborghini’s last V12 naturally aspirated dance. The final 12-cylinder mid-engined Italian supercar from the raging bull. This incarnation puts out 780bhp; it is the Alpha and the Omega, the very definition of retiring at the top. It’s final time on camera needed something particular, to put it mildly.

So, as a true proponent of letting the creatives

“It’s a statement piece by all definitions, a true work of craftsmanship”

TAP TO WATCH THE FILM

STEPHEN SIMMS OFFERS DR CHRIS STANBURY TO RECREATE THE CREATION OF ADAM DURING POST PRODUCTION

CASIO PRIVIA PX-S7000

Dimensions (mm)

1,340 x 242 x 102 mm

Main Specifications

• 88 Touch Sensitive Keys

• Smart Hybrid Key Action

• 400 Tones, including: 9 Privia Grand Piano Tones, 11 Best Hit Piano Tones, 50 Classic EP Tones

• MIDI and Audio Recorder (WAV)

• Pitch Bend Wheel

Design and Finish

• Available in Black, White, Harmonious Mustard

• Matching pedal block and piano cover

• Flat front panel with LED touch ring, touch buttons and backlit LCD display

• Compact design with a depth of 242 mm from front to back.

Sound Source

• The multi-dimensional Morphing AiR sound source produces a wide range of exceptionally detailed and playable tones, including grand piano tones that include the rich resonances of the acoustic instrument.

• Modelling of open string resonance and aliquot resonance (extra strings in the upper octaves that are not struck by the hammer, but vibrate sympathetically to achieve a richer sound).

Sound System

• CASIO’s new Spatial Sound System technology uses four independent speakers to produce sound that can fill your space.

• The room simulation/reverberation function recreates the acoustic characteristics of concert halls and other performance spaces, producing a real sense of presence.

• The Piano Position function allows the sound elements of each speaker to be adjusted according to the location of the digital piano (mounted on the stand, near a wall, in the centre of the room, on a table).

Tones

• 400 built-in sounds, including acoustic pianos, electric pianos, organs, strings, etc.

• Includes an array of well-made acoustic and electric piano sounds worthy of well-known hit songs.

Keyboard

• Like an acoustic grand piano, the key mechanism uses the weight of the hammers to lighten the keys when played pianissimo, but to keep them responsive when played fortissimo.

• The white keys are finished to recreate the natural grain of ivory, while the black keys offer a new matte finish that looks and feels like ebony.

• With the 88-key digital keyboard’s detuning technology, the volume is individually controlled for each key according to the force applied to it, with the weight of touch varying along the length of the keyboard, as it does in a grand piano.

• The ten-step Hammer Response setting allows you to adjust the timing of the sound according to the keystroke and the playing range, just like an acoustic piano.

Experience

• Programmable CONTROL knob for real-time tone variation while playing.

• The Arpeggiator allows arpeggiated chords and other musical expressions to be played by pressing the keys. When using the overlay or split function, the Arpeggiator can be turned on/off independently for each part.

• Recording allows you to save and recall a snapshot of the current piano settings, including tone, overlay, split and effect settings

Audio recorder

• Record your performance as a standard WAV audio file to the internal memory or to a commercially available USB stick for playback on a computer or other device.

• DSP effects and microphone input (including microphone effects) can also be recorded.

create, we sat down with Stephen during the scoring of the trailer on the Casio Privia PX-S7000 to take some cliff notes.

Stephen, can you tell us how you got into the music industry?

When I was 18 I was very lucky and I got signed to a development deal. I moved to London and that’s where I really started to learn my craft and seriously started to play the piano. I was working with different people, collaborating and writing. That sparked the production side of it; working in studios with different producers and actually understanding the craft behind it.

I know that over the years you’ve worked with some incredible people and for an array of productions. Can I ask you to be momentarily less than modest, and share some with us?

The first instrument I started playing when I was 16 was a small Casio keyboard, actually. Fitting. It was my first introduction to playing the piano. Getting it for my 16th birthday certainly sparked my interest, and I started to write and then sing, and it obviously started a career. I began going out and playing live gigs a few years later.

So yes, the piano is really important to me, because it’s the first base. Before I do anything, before I sing, before I add arrangement or orchestration or additional instruments. It’s the first building block to creating a chord structure and then a melody, and with that I add different elements - be it a pop song or an orchestral piece.

I wasn’t there when the Privia PX-S7000 actually arrived. What were your thoughts when you opened it?

I think my first thoughts were how beautiful it was. It felt like a piece of furniture and looked so good in the room. It’s contemporary, it’s modern and I think it’s going to be a really strong piece of design that people are going to want to put in their homes.

Talk me through some of the functions that really resonated with you.

I can try. I have written for Eurovision. Played live for Elton John. Had global chart placements. Written award-winning short film scores. Performed at the troubadour and the Millennium Stadium, amongst many others. I’ve also recorded session vocals for global live TV talent shows, and lead vocals for national advertising campaigns.

I think it’s a greatest-hits list to be proud of, personally. The closest I get to playing live is attending the Mercury Music Awards. I convince you more than most to tickle the ivories at every social occasion - but was your first instrument even a Piano?

One, it’s great as a MIDI controller. I think the sample packs for playing live are great, you’ve got a real range from strings to organs. The arpeggiator is something that’s a really welcome addition, and one that shows they’ve thought through the needs of the musician. What are yours?

I think the touch-sensitive buttons and LED touch ring do it for me. The Spatial Sound System is also really impressive. I spent a lot of time going through the surround functions and the room simulations. The matched acoustic characteristics of concert halls and performance spaces is pretty unique. But I’m coming from an acoustic perspective as I am not classically trained in the slightest. So what is your stand-out element from a musician’s point of view?

The thing I love about this piano - and that’s

The arpeggiator is something that’s a really welcome addition, and one that shows they’ve thought through the needs of the musician.

really important for me - is the fact that it has weighted spruce composite wooden keys. That Smart hybrid hammer action is so critical when it comes to dynamics, and it’s so important when you’re playing. People don’t realise that the emotion of the piece is not just the notes you’re playing, it’s not just the timing - it’s the feeling that you’re putting into it. When you’re playing with something like this, because of

the weight of the keys, it’s just that much more expressive. The final sound has a really warm, rich timbre to it.

I know we’re filming a whole BTS about the scoring but can you talk me through your process for this piece. What was your approach given the short runtime of the trailer?

My process for writing the Lamborghini piece is part of the reason it works so well with the film. It starts off musically very, very simply, and then we build. I wanted to have a consistent rhythm that was percussive but wasn’t adding percussion. I wrote the key in D minor - I like writing in minor keys because we’re talking about a car, and it’s gaining speed; I love that it has that darker sound to it.

For further details visit: casio.co.uk/emi/home-pianos

MOTORING EDITOR AARON EDGEWORTH, CONTEMPLATES THE RETURN OF THE ULTIMAE

DOP DALE CAMPBELL EYES HIS NEXT SHOT

Terre by Vincent Crepel

A Singular Expression of Gastronomic Finesse

Words: Benjamin Norris - Lifestyle Editor

The lighting is dramatically, moodily low. We’re guided through an opulent Georgian-inflected drawing room - all wing-backed chairs and warm mahogany - into a corridor stacked high on either side with an alchemist’s array of ferments, pickles and preserved treasures from both garden and seashore. We step onwards, into a sleek yet cosy dining room consisting of a mere three tables. A glimpse through the saloon doors beyond reveals a golden glow, a fiery flicker, the familiar metallic clang of a professional kitchen doing what it does best. Outside, the moon is rising over a spectral 12th century castle and manicured stately labyrinth.

Suddenly, the speaker system kicks into life, drowning out the click-clack of knives and sizzle of pans. Slash is loudly playing the iconic eight-note lick that kick-starts Guns ‘n’ Roses’ Sweet Child Of Mine.

Wait. What?

We can’t have been the first press group to crack into a broad smile at this bizarre juxtaposition. The slick and atmospheric backdrop of a spanking new restaurant surgically positioning itself for two Michelin star status (the inspectors were in a week prior to my visit, I’m informed) isn’t where you’d expect your first impressions to be formed by a soundtrack of 90’s grunge, 70’s psychedelic rock and live recordings of The Rolling Stones. However, Terre is so utterly an extension of chef patron Vincent Crepel’s idiosyncratic personality, it wasn’t long before the pieces of a gloriously impressive puzzle began slotting into place.

Housed in the 18th century glamour of Castlemartyr Resort - a five-star country retreat nestled within 250 acres of pristine County Cork countryside - Terre embraces its eccentricities without ever once feeling restrained by the whims of gastronomic trends. A quick look at Crepel’s resume does a good job

of explaining why; the French chef (quiffed, tattooed and somehow making it all look like the easiest job on the planet) worked his way up through Azark in San Sebastian, where he got a good look behind the velvet curtain to see the machinations that go into racking up those stars. A lengthy stint in Singapore’s finest eateries gave a further foundation of finesse and, seeking out a challenge, he decided to head to the Irish countryside and embed himself in a foodie scene that’s definitely beginning to turn heads. This is a chef that leads, accustomed to nothing less than pioneering the kitchens that make the rest of the world listen.

While there’s some justification for this move to the countryside (after all, Cork’s restaurant scene is definitely on the up and up), it’s still very much a gamble. Crepel’s response to this element of risk is clearly to go all in, showing a hand stuffed to the gills with aces. Championing an ingredients list with a set of food miles in the single figures, working in a globetrotting array of skills and techniques, and turning everything - and absolutely not

just the music - right up to eleven, it’s no exaggeration to say that Terre exceeds even the loftiest of expectations.

Scene setting done, let’s turn to the dining experience itself. I’ll admit to being a little apprehensive when our maître d’ Fergus, a tall and besuited Irishman completely incapable of suppressing a knowing grin, told me we’re about to go on a ‘journey’. It’s a word trotted out more often than any food critic wishes, and usually means precisely nothing. However, Terre is literally laid out as a journey with five distinct stopping points. Each provides Crepel an opportunity to show - emphatically not tell, as the chef keeps talking to an understated minimum - his concepts, ambitions and reasoning for placing his newest venture on the edge of a small Irish village. What’s more, each destination genuinely adds to the experience, leaving myself and my fellow diners breathless with excitement.

First, Champagne - a fabulous vintage Blanc de Blancs - and a wander through the aforementioned rooms given their unique

ambience by Axl Rose wailing his overblownyet-nostalgia-inducing nonsense. We’re led to the ferments room, with jars of samphire, rosehip, rhubarb, sea purslane and fennel flowers backlit in ways both reminiscent of a Turner Prize-winning assemblage and a scene from a horror movie. The opposite wall holds an exhibition of Michelin Guides dating back to 1984: the chef’s personal collection, and a hell of a hint to the inspectors.

We’re gestured into the open kitchen. Vincent shouts a brisk ‘Welcome!’ and seven other chefs echo his salutation in unison with military precision. So far, so theatrical, and only mildly terrifying. We take our places at the vast chef’s table, and the first course is underway. One by one, members of the kitchen team step up to proudly present their creations: a trio of one-bite delights housed in pastry cups of near-impossible thinness and crispness. The first: smoked veal, anchovy, sea purslane. The second: stone crab, finger lime and maple syrup (I catch my dining partner’s eye and we both proclaim with no small delight that it’s a key lime pie, albeit whacked with a massive

dollop of the sweetest and juiciest of shredded crustacean), and the third boasts Ballycotton blue lobster and an array of botanicals. All three are distinct, delicious, and demonstrate that there’s no gentle easing into the tasting menu we’ve embarked upon. It’s quite the opening act, and one that sends a resounding message: there’ll be no delicate flavours or ephemeral and diaphanous sensory subtleties tonight, boys.

We’re off again. This time, we’re brought to an ice box situated almost uncomfortably close to where Vincent is working wonders with a blade and a bivalve, and where a local chap on the team takes us through some of the key ingredients and concepts of the tasting menu. We’re told about some of the rare and unusual caviars that play a key role, shown the particular type of quail we’ll be eating, and cordially introduced to the live cousins of the crabs and lobsters we’ve just eaten. We’re shown a limited release whiskey that was distilled just down the road in Midletown, and informed by our guide it’s nothing short of a crime to cook with it. Clearly what Vincent wants, Vincent gets. We’re not complaining.

This clash of blasphemy and gastronomy is interrupted by a flash of the divine. Yet another member of the kitchen team reaches over to present us with a small cylinder of raw A5 Wagyu from the Miyazaki Prefecture, held in a leaf of dried nori with some truffle and hazelnut. It melts in the mouth like no piece of beef I’ve ever had before, leaving behind a deeply savoury satisfaction that lingers, and

“This clash of blasphemy and gastronomy is interrupted by a flash of the divine. Yet another member of the kitchen team reaches over to present us with a small cylinder of raw A5 Wagyu from the Miyazaki Prefecture”

lingers, and lingers. Wow.

Fergus is back, and briskly walks us to the main dining room. Filip, the restaurant’s sommelier, begins the wine flight in earnest (which brought bottle after bottle of low-yield, small production wines which - gasp - occasionally strayed beyond the borders of France and into Spain and Italy) along with the first salvo of the fish courses. It’s yet another exercise in meticulously-crafted sensory bombast; coils of pickled radish are stuffed with vivid orange trout roe. A fat, unctuous scallop is draped with silky lardo and slivers of lobster.

Because this is 2022, there’s a chawanmushi. However, because this is Terre, it’s heightened with eel and cured wagyu, and given fathoms of heft with foie gras and a 46-month aged parmesan. Best of all, a wedge of opalescent turbot, cooked to absolute perfection, comes topped with an extremely generous quenelle of what has to be - and I don’t say this lightly - the best caviar I’ve ever tasted. Jasmine-hued, impossibly creamy and nutty, low in salinity, it’s a genuine high point in a tasting menu with

more peaks than the Alpine regions half our wine list hails from. The mains are rounded off with the quail from the kitchen encounter an hour earlier, sitting upon a sauce of smoked porcini and pied de mouton. Unsurprisingly, it’s spectacular.

Vincent himself comes to the tableside to serve the dessert - a matured Mauritian pineapple, with grated Buddha’s Hand citrus, both of which are about as unseasonal and unregional as a sweet course can be, and unapologetically so. However, the bowl features cured rhubarb root from the garden outside the restaurant window, and all is forgiven with a flambé of 23year old Zacapa rum. In a fascinating left turn from a wine flight typified by deeply perfumed bottles, it’s served with a Normandy pear cider. Deliciously lending a crispness and briskness, the choice of drink brings out a reflection of the tart acidity that rang through the very first courses.

We end our journey in the Georgian drawing room, snuggled up against a roaring fire with petits fours and a drinks trolley - who doesn’t

love a drinks trolley? - featuring Armagnac, Sherry and a range of rare digestifs. It veers dangerously close to overkill. Despite this, it would be almost criminal to serve anything but this final flourish of enveloping flavours in a room this cosy, this opulent, and this much of a contrast to the bracing contemporary nature of the previous stops on our evening’s voyage. On the stereo, Roger Daltry is belting out The Who’s opus, Baba O’Riley. “Out here in the fields, I fight for my meals…” The irony is not lost.

Terre is unabashedly the vision of a singularly remarkable talent, continuing his journey into gastronomic superstardom. There’s clearly some nerves surrounding whether or not it can draw in adequate foodie crowds, due to its rural location across the Celtic Sea. However, with multiple 1-hour flights from London each day and only a short hop from Cork airport, a very comfortable array of quintessentially 5-star rooms and suites to stay in on-site and food this thrilling, there’s no doubt it’s unquestionably worth the effort.

BeguilingBanff

Words: Sarah Morgan - Global Travel Editor

I have finally found and it’s currently lifestyle

BeguilingBanff

found a greater gift than travel the fastest growing global lifestyle trend.

GLOBAL TRAVEL EDITOR SARAH MORGAN LACES UP HER BOOTS AND TAKES TO THE ICE BY PAUL ZIZKA

Covid created the perfect storm that birthed the freedom of hybrid working combined with destinations and hoteliers willing to reinvent themselves to attract a new breed of traveller. Travellers with a new agenda for longer and deeper exploration. Welcome to the digital nomads.

This new tribe of traveller has an intense desire to immerse themselves in a place, to get a sense of its space and its people. To unearth the roots of its way of life and discover its heartbeat. Only then, can they feel like they are part of its landscape rather than just a visitor to it.

All at the same time as spinning the usual plates of life and work. This is not about taking a break from life; it’s about taking your life with you.

So as we kick start 2023, I set off to Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada - a UNESCO world heritage site and the birthplace of Canada’s National Parks - to get to grips with what it feels like to be a digital nomad.

As a quick credibility check for my digital nomad status, I am not only Global Travel Editor for The Review, but also I am currently launching a series of wellbeing retreats in Greece, studying a counselling course online and running an AirBnB in the UK. As such, I am truly ‘walking the talk’ and immersing

myself in Banff with a desire to live like a local, whilst also nurturing and nudging my life along on its path.

After tussling for what felt like days of packing for a long stay at -20c temperatures, we finally arrived into the calm oasis of Air Canada’s Maple Leaf Lounge at Heathrow. For me, it’s one of the most important moments preflight to be able to take a breath, enjoy a graze, gather your thoughts before boarding what was the effortless nine-hour direct flight to Calgary. The next win was discovering the Banff Airporter service; a handy extra that does all the heavy lifting on the two hour road trip through some spectacular scenery from Calgary to Banff.

LESSON NUMBER ONE: PACKING, AS A DIGITAL NOMAD, IS A SKILL I HAVE NOT YET CRACKED. NOTE TO SELF: CAPSULE WARDROBE TRAINING NEEDED.

Spending a month in one destination definitely creates a languid, richer experience; one in which there’s time to ‘take a knee’ and really breathe in the essence of a place. So as I sit and write this feature, looking out over the snow-capped Rocky Mountains, I am humbled and mesmerised by their scale and beauty. I am reminded of the impact that they have had on the generations of first and second nations that choose to live within their powerful presence.

WINTER BANFF

LESSON NUMBER TWO: BEING A DIGITAL NOMAD TAKES OODLES OF SELF-DISCIPLINE TO ENSURE THAT THE WORK GETS DONE BEFORE THE EXPLORING BEGINS.

Downtown Banff is a compact low-rise mountain town that has an instant feel of its historic roots. The town, the highest in Canada at an elevation of 1383 metres, was born out of the creation of the Canadian Pacific Railway in the late 1800’s, when Canada’s vision was to link East and West. Three inquisitive railroad workers, when they smelled what they thought was sulphur, stumbled across the natural hot springs near ‘Siding 29’ in the Bow Valley. With that, Banff was born. Initially it attracted wealthy European and Americans in search of mountaineering adventures and the healing properties of pure mountain air and the hot springs.

The vibrant lakes, majestic mountains and abundant wildlife led to Banff National Park being created in 1885 in a bid to protect it all. Today, the boundaries of the National Park stretch across 6641 square kilometres. It was the trailblazer for all the magnificent National Parks that Canada is now rightly honoured for.

As a winter destination, Banff National Park has it all for the adrenaline seeker, history hunter, wellness warrior or outdoor adventurer. The Big3 ski resorts of Lake Louise, Mount Norquay and Sunshine Village are all easily accessed from downtown Banff and together offer a staggering 7748 acres of skiable terrain, two gondolas, 26 chairlifts and 357 runs. Perfectly manicured and managed, the ski areas, backcountry and winter sports tuition are arguably some of the best in the world and attract a savvy international crowd.

But with more time as a digital nomad to rest and digest, there is so much more on offer in this breathtaking destination. Once you have ridden the corduroy pistes, chased the powder and the adrenalin rush recedes, travellers can try snowshoeing, ice skating, tubing, stargazing, cross-country skiing, dog sledging ice climbing and hiking not to mention visits to some outstanding natural phenomenon like Lake Louise, Johnston Canyon, Lake Minnewanka (Lake of the Spirits) and The Columbia Parkway, the largest mass of glacial ice in the Canadian Rockies.

As a digital nomad clearly it’s vital to stay where all your work life needs are met. However, it’s just as important to find places that reflect the destination and are part of its essence. In fact, our chosen hotels are perhaps as famous as the area itself.

DESTINATION

AVENUE BY PAUL ZIZKA

“The vibrant lakes, majestic mountains and abundant wildlife led to Banff National Park being created in 1885”

NORQUAY DAN EVANS

Farimont Banff Springs

The first is the iconic Fairmont Banff Springs, the “Castle in The Rockies”. An imposing resort designed to emulate a baronial Scottish castle, it sits majestically above downtown Banff yet it seems to perfectly blend into the contours of the mountains and the Bow Valley.

This landmark hotel has been providing legendary hospitality for over 130 years and boasts a glitterati of guests such as Marilyn Monroe, Ginger Rogers, Queen Elizabeth II and King George VI, Clint Eastwood and Brad Pitt.

The VIP treatment is on tap to all who walk through the heavy brass and glass spinning doors. Whilst there is a sense of stepping back into a more glamour-soaked era, the hotel has managed to blend its rich heritage and baronial-style architecture with some beautiful contemporary additions and renovations.

Our two-bedroomed Mountain Bluebell Suite, with its central feature fireplace, was immaculate in every way for a long stay guest. The room felt chic and sumptuous with every last detail considered with spectacular sweeping views of Sulphur Mountain, yet none of its grandeur stole from the feeling of being relaxed and homely.

The imposing castle has 739 guest rooms and suites, as well as world class amenities including its own bowling alley and a world-renowned golf course. However, there are many cosy corners and tucked-away areas that allow you to sink into the space and hunker down. One of my favourite spots was the secret speakeasy within Rundles Bar that is masked behind an extraordinarily lofty floor-to-ceiling bookshelf. It’s a welcome spot to cuddle up after a finger numbing campfire S’mores session under the stars.

Reminiscent of the hot springs that enticed travellers over 100 years ago, guests have the pleasure of stepping into Willow Stream Spa: a place where three varied temperature waterfalls await with a central mineral pool imbued with 24 activated minerals, a large outdoor pool and hot tub from which you can gaze up at the elemental giants that surround the hotel. The impressive spa treatment menu draws from the area’s rich local natural ingredients and caters for piste-bashed bodies as well as those seeking the perfect pamper.

Dinner was at the simple yet authentic Castello Italiana, an intimate Italian restaurant with an

interesting wine list sourced predominantly from Canada, the US and Australia. Jet lag sadly stole something from the experience, but the service was welcoming and friendly, the menu simple and enticing. One of the best gluten free coated calamari I have ever tasted and a stunning cauliflower steak.

This resort is perfect for long stay digital nomads, as it places everything at your fingertips from the quiet spaces to work, great places to eat and relax, a plethora of activities and an army of attentive staff who are genuinely devoted to deliver the very highest standards at this grand dame of a resort. You’re also in the heart of Banff National Park with over 6,000 square kilometres to discover.

Whilst it was the first hotel that defined luxury in this rugged outdoors, in my opinion Fairmont Banff Springs is still delivering the ultimate luxury in this winter wilderness.

“Reminiscent of the hot springs that enticed travellers over 100 years ago, guests have the pleasure of stepping into Willow Stream Spa”

FAIRMONT BANFF SPRINGS KNOWN AS CANADA’S ‘CASTLE IN THE ROCKIES’

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

The next landmark destination is the stunning Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. A short drive from Banff but still in the National Park, this hotel has an equally impressive history and location yet offers a slightly different experience; one perhaps more suited for those seeking a little more solitude and a closer connection to the landscape.

This area is steeped in First Nation history as it has been a place of healing for generations.

There are so many rich stories of this place offering a deep connection to the gods and the spirits. And when you step into the resort and drink in the view of the soaring mountain peaks, the majestic Victoria Glacier and the monumental frozen Lake Louise this historic provenance is palatable . The view is totally intoxicating and not surprisingly is one of the most photographed spots in Canada, if not the world. Over 15,000 people visit every day during the summer.

Lake Louise sits at an elevation of 5,679 ft (1,731 m) making it Canada’s highest permanent settlement.

LESSON NUMBER THREE: HIGH ALTITUDES CAN CAUSE NOSEBLEEDS, CHALLENGES WITH USUAL EXERCISE AND EARLY ONSET OF INEBRIATION!

Our elegant one-bedroom suite had a

A FROZEN LAKE LOUISE

180-degree view of the lake and the valley that stretched into the distance. Ice skaters below looked like animated Lowry matchstick men and women, spinning on the hand-crafted ice rink that sits on the 2 metre thick ice. Romantic sleigh rides also navigate the lakeside with passengers wrapped up in warm blankets, weaving their way through the snow-covered pines to the end of the lake to see the frozen waterfalls and glacier. If all that doesn’t sound like you have arrived in the ultimate winter paradise, there’s even a Parks Distillery Ice Bar perfectly serving hot toddies and mulled wine; ideal whilst guests drink in the magnitude of the landscape.

LESSON NUMBER FOUR: BEING A DIGITAL NOMAD SUCKS WHEN ALL YOU WANT TO DO IS GET OUTSIDE AND BE PART OF IT ALL.

The hotel has a choice of restaurant styles on offer. However, our treat was the recently renovated Fairview Bar & Restaurant, a sophisticated yet relaxed art deco styled space, complete with high ceilings and magnificent arched windows that look out over Lake Louise and the namesake Fairview peak just across the lake.

We enjoyed some of the best flavours we have ever experienced here. Champagne Butter Prawns, Salmon Lettuce Wraps and Pacific Hailbut that were cooked to perfection, all washed down with a light Vin de Savoie, Domaine La Rosiere 2019. It was evident how

much love and passion had been invested in celebrating the region and its local producers, and all in all,n outstanding meal enjoyed whilst sitting looking out over the lake and the mountains.

The resort runs a regular shuttle to the Lake Louise Ski Resort and its incredible 4 mountain faces, over 4200 acres of diverse terrain and 164 runs. In addition there is snowshoeing, cross country skiing, ice climbing, hiking as well as dog sledding and, of course, there is a wonderful spa to soak away any aches and pains.

Historic, elegant,polished and yet relaxed and inviting, this 539-room luxury resort continues to live up to the natural wonder with which she shares her name. Once the new wellbeing wing is opened in 2024, it will make Chateau Lake Louise a world-class wellness destination with a powerful provenance.

Having been in Banff for nearly a month, I’m an absolute digital nomad fan. In fact, I am resisting the whole idea of heading home.

I’ve had the opportunity to slow down and really immerse myself in the town, the park’s natural wild beauty, its history and to make authentic connections to the people. I am more than a visitor; I am a devoted digital nomad.

Nomadic Musts

Banff Gondola Nightrise

A stunning immersive night experience that connects you to the dark sky and the stars above. Beautiful story telling. Highly recommend supper at Sky Bistro.

Campfires & Stargazing at Fairmont Banff Springs

A highly informative and engaging tour of the night sky and its myths and legends.

Johnson’s Canyon Ice Walk

A beautiful hike with Discover Banff Tours

Ice Skating with Farirmont Chateau Lake Louise

Followed by a mulled wine at the Park Ice Bar at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

Night Owl Snowshoe Safari

Head out to the trails armed with a head torch and your guide to learn more about this stunning landcape and its inhabitants at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

Night Tubing at Mount Norquay

All of the thrills with none of the skills but speeds of up to 70km per hour. It’s a must do.

Gin & Vodka Tasting at Parks Distillery

Take a tour and taste the fruits of the only operating distillery in a National Park in the world.

Upper Hot Springs

Take a dip in the original hot springs that are the origin of Banff National Park.

Banff Airporter

Effortless group or personal transfers to and from Calgary

Snowtraks

For all your winter equipment hire

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LEFT TO RIGHT: GUGU MBATHA-RAW, OLIVER JACKSON-COHEN, JOSHUA JACKSON

DINNER BY DUNHILL

Photography: Greg Williams

Celebrating British film making and screen culture, the annual Dunhill & BSBP Pre-BAFTA Dinner and Party remains a staunch social fixture. Hosted at Bourdon House, Mayfair, emerging and established talent from on-screen and behind the scenes gathered at Dunhill’s iconic London location to honour the British film industry. The evening commenced with an intimate dinner for selected guests, including Charlie Heaton, George MacKay, Kit Connor, Sheila Atim, Stacy Martin, Taron Egerton and Will Sharpe, followed by an after-party soundtracked by DJ Spoony.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: TOBY JONES, ALAN FORD, MARTIN FREEMAN. | DJ SPOONY & KANO | ERIN KELLYMAN & ELLIE BAMBER | CHRIS WALLEY & BEN HARDY | MARTIN FREEMAN & TARON EGERTON

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: CHARLOTTE RILEY | MARTIN FREEMAN & TOM O’DELL | DAVID JONSSON, GUGU MBATHA-RAW | ELLIE BAMBER

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: LIZA MARSHALL, KIT CONNOR, TARON EGERTON | LAURENT MALECAZE | TOBY JONES & ALAN FORD | OLIVER JACKSON-COHEN, GUGU MBATHA-RAW, KANO, ASHLEY THOMAS

Alpine Escape The

Photography: Barney Oates Stylist: Laura Moss

SILK V-NECK BLOUSE IN CHAMPAGNE BY HOLLAND COOPER

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LOGO SKI KNIT JUMPER IN WINTER WHITE, WINDSOR BOBBLE HAT IN FERN GREEN AND HC CHELSEA SCARF IN HOUNDSTOOTH BY HOLLAND COOPER

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Stay in Style

Sirreti’s Selection Of European Villas For Summer 2023

Words: Lucy Wright

From an opulent Tuscan palace and a chic bohemian retreat hidden in the cliffs of Ibiza, to a fairytale-like location you may not have previously considered, those who are pining to discover new travel treasures are sure to find further daydream inspiration in Siretti’s villas. Approach with caution, this one might not be safe-for-work.

The thought of a summer vacation may feel all too painful in the depths of winter, but as the frost begins to thaw, you might find yourself spending more time staring out of the window at your desk, daring to dream of a summer escape. As a destination for aperitifs, sightseeing, and sunbathing, Europe remains unrivaled. However, with so many stunning locations and cheaper flights, European hot-spots tend to be oversaturated with tourists.

For those that yearn for a more secluded escape, away from the maddening crowds, private rentals have been the answer for many years, and are everpopular amongst UHNW individuals. However, with an inundated travel market, it can be tricky

and time consuming to choose where to stay.

Introducing Sirreti’s 2023 collection of ultraluxury European villas, a hand-picked collection of the finest five-star private estates across the continent. The rental companies invited to join the Siretti community have been carefully vetted to ensure that clients are met with the highest level of service from the most dedicated teams, all against the backdrop of the most spectacular locations in Europe.

Villa Argentario Tuscany

It may be physically impossible not to be charmed by the romance of the rolling hills of Tuscany, the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance. There’s a reason that poets, artists and authors have been inspired by the region for centuries. Also famed for its vineyards and food culture, Tuscany may be the ultimate location to soak up La Dolce Vita.

Villa Argentario by Villa Flair encapsulates the drama of an Italian love affair, an expansive property with a sumptuous and palatial interior, the property holds 10 luxuriously finished bedrooms, a grand fireplace hall and several plush living areas. This awe-inspiring sea-front estate is arguably the most impressive on Villa Flair’s portfolio of stunning properties. The 2.100 square meter property is surrounded by 26 hectares of land with access to a private beach, the bay of Cacciarella. An ideal escape for those that seek unconstrained European luxury.

Villa Marivi Marbella

A firm European favorite among luxury travelers, Marbella experienced a property boom in 2021 due to UHNW individuals investing in the area, regardless of travel restrictions. Despite its reputation for wealth flashing in champagnesoaked beach clubs, culture-seeking visitors can also immerse themselves in Spanish living by walking through the whitewashed streets of Marbella’s old town.

The Luxury Villa Company’s portfolio of highend rental properties presents the most upscale and luxurious rentals in the area, encapsulating the old-school glamor of the Costa Del Sol. Founder Lindsay Gregory has years of experience in the private rental sector, and understands the needs of UHNW clients that visit the area.

Villa Ischia Ibiza

There is much more to the White Isle than foam parties in San Antonio.The crystal blue waters of Ibizan shores have captivated visitors for centuries, early settlers even believed the island to be blessed by God. Aside from having an international reputation as the ultimate party destination, it is Ibiza’s ability to intoxicate you organically that makes it so magical. Arguably an island of villas, there are plenty of impressive high-end rentals to choose from, catering to all kinds of groups.

Villa Ischia by Dynamic Lives is one of the most stunning properties on the island. The property clings to the cliffs of Es Cubells, with unbeatable sea views. Catering for up to 12 guests, the property is child-friendly with all of the comforts and services you would expect from a luxury rental. Freshly renovated in 2022 with a minimal yet tasteful Mediterranean inspired interior design, Villa Ischia truly is a private haven, perfect for days spent lazing in the sun by the pool.

Villa ASA Slovenia

Slovenia is home to one of the most beautiful lakes in Europe, Lake Bled, and is a country full to the brim with natural beauty, featuring diverse landscapes, charming towns, delicious cuisine, and reportedly some of Europe’s friendliest and laidback locals. Despite all of its offerings, Slovenia is often overlooked as a travel destination, overshadowed by neighboring Italy.

Bordering Eastern and Western Europe, the country represents a real mix of culture. Slovenia is also considered as one of the most underrated destinations in Europe for Wine, though this seems to be changing as the country recently won several winemaking awards.

For something truly different and unique, consider Villa ASA in the Slovenian Karst, a property bursting with rustic charm. The property itself dates back to 1784 and is surrounded by an ‘Energy Park’, which is thought to promote rest, relaxation and joy with its unique hidden ‘cosmic energy points’. An ideal destination for those who seek to relinquish the stresses of daily life in an elegant secluded setting. The villa’s welcoming hosts offer a range of treatments and services and are experts on the surrounding area. Even the most discerning travelers will be impressed with the property’s balance of earthiness and luxury.

Villa Casa di Siena St Tropez, France

Perhaps the French Riviera is the first place that comes to mind when you think of true European glamor. With a long history of attracting the wealthy and famous, St Tropez’s reputation has only grown among well-to-do travelers, with a consistent string of new restaurants, chic hotels and beach bars opening up year after year. But, St Tropez can be so much more than just glitzy beachfront restaurants and celeb-spotting. Escape to the vine-covered hillsides of La Mole and Cogolin, or explore further down the coast toward Escalet where more family friendly beaches can be found.

Casa di Siena by SJ Villas is a true gem in the area, located in the prestigious gated ‘Domaine des Parcs de St Tropez’. Described as ‘timelessly elegant, private, refined and very sophisticated’, it certainly ticks all of the boxes in luxury rentals.

Guests will be immediately impressed by the property upon approach, with its manicured gardens and pretty terraces. Aside from the usual luxury amenities one would expect from a villa of this quality, guests will find hammam baths, saunas and massage rooms, as well as lush chalkywhite interiors that are reminiscent of traditional French chateaus.

Villa Giada Capri

Holidaying in Capri has been an indicator of wealth for decades. With stunning natural beauty, an exclusive atmosphere, and world-class amenities, there’s no wonder the destination is popular with the world’s most discerning jet-setters. Capri is a destination for those who wish to see and be seen and anyone who is anyone (ahem, Beyoncé) is sure to be visiting the island in high-season, likely to be sheltering on a private yacht or shopping in one of the island’s exclusive boutiques.

However, privacy is possible on the island thanks to a selection of high-end private rentals. Villa Giada by LV rentals is perhaps the most luxurious offering, located within the ‘peaceful oasis’ of Parco Silvania in Anacapri. Surrounded by lemon-trees and stunning views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, Villa Giada offers the ultimate in relaxation and tranquility. There is an entire floor dedicated to the Master Bedroom, which is uniquely built directly into stone. Guests also have access, upon request, to the LV wine cellar, where they will find the region’s most extensive collection of fine wines and cigars. The property is fully serviced, with an on-site private chef and a separate annex for staff to ensure that guests receive top-level assistance at any time.

Now that the hard work is done for you, all that’s left to do is count down the days and dream of summer.

LUSSO : Opulent Interiors and Unmissable Design

Words: Benjamin Norris - Lifestyle Editor

Founded in 2014 by property developer and entrepreneur Wayne Spriggs, Lusso has become a notable name in the interiors industry. Primarily known for its elegant stone baths, Lusso’s range now includes kitchenware and homeware as part of the brand’s recent expansion.

Lusso’s collections can be found in homes nationwide and in leading global design destinations. These include Claridge’s in London, Sugar Beach Resort in St Lucia, and the Equinox Hotel in New York. Lusso is a proud industry partner of the British Institute of Interior Design and the American Society of Interior Designers.

When asked, Lusso founder Wayne Spriggs was clear on his commitment to providing opulence and excellence for the brand’s customers, not least via their exquisite range of signature bathtubs.

“I founded Lusso with the aim to deliver accessible luxury. Being a property developer prior to founding Lusso, I realised that there was a huge gap in the market for products that offered both affordability and experience; it was simply one or the other. If you wanted luxury, you paid a large price for it.

Since launching Lusso, we’ve become renowned for offering a spa-like experience and it’s something that I consider when designing every piece in our range.”

THE ULTIMATE BATHING EXPERIENCE: THE VIVERE FORGED CARBON FIBRE BATHTUB, £3,477

Adopting the silhouette of the signature Lusso Picasso, the bath takes inspiration from the luxury motorsport brand Bugatti and its Veyron Vivere supercar, introducing a state-of-the-art design which offers a level of strength and durability unlike any other. The Vivere Forged Carbon Fibre Bath is not just a bath, it’s an experience. The perfect addition to elevate a bathroom’s style and functionality to new heights. The Vivere complements interiors from the most modern and minimalist to bold and opulent.

THE LAMP FREESTANDING MARBLE BATH COLLECTION, FROM £19,700

Designed by Lusso’s founder Wayne Spriggs, to complement the matching Lusso floorstanding basin. This new addition is handcrafted by Lusso’s stone masons, from the finest of marbles and is available in three luxurious types, Arabescato, Carrara and Pietra Grey. The intricate fluted detailing creates a distinctive and stunning silhouette. A truly beautiful bathing experience awaits with the Lamp range.

BOLIVIAN BLUE MARBLE MUSE, SODALITE FREESTANDING BATH, £24,995

A showstopping design, generously crafted for two people to relax and enjoy together. The Muse is an extravagant choice featuring signature blue, cream and pale-yellow hues and veins, which is expertly handcrafted from a single block of super premium Sodalite marble. The bath is polished to perfection, to ensure the owner’s ease of care and enjoyment. Sophisticated and fun, the Muse is truly sought after.

AMORE SMOKED BLACK & AMORE AMBER FREESTANDING BATHS, £2,377

The Amore bath collection is Lusso’s first bath to be crafted from resin, making them significantly lighter than the average stone bath. The bath is available in one style and two colours; smoked black and rich translucent amber. Create a striking bathroom statement with the Amore - a luxurious and contemporary home spa experience.

The Rolex Swan Cup

Words: Aaron Edgeworth - Motoring Editor

Pictures: Stefano Gattini, Francesco Ferri, ClubSwan Racing and Studio Borlenghi

Porto Cervo

There are few things that elicit genuine dread within me. Likewise, it’s a similarly small palette that induces absolute passion within me. For readers of these pages, they will know that all things automotive fall within the joy remit. What some may not know is just how deeply deep water sits into the former category.

So, I can’t swim. There, I said it. Ok, a slight contingency to that statement: I can kind of swim, I just can’t tread water or float with any real confidence. That means, should I find myself in water deeper than my five-foot ten inch frame, it’s not that I’m screwed, it’s that I’m scared.

I was never taught, you see. Water being water, and deep water being, well, deep water, I never had the confidence to learn as an adult and kept my frolicking to swimming pools and dips just below the nipples should I be near the sea. I’ve also never seen The Perfect Storm, Master and Commander, and baulk at the sight of an advert for The Deadliest Catch. It’s fair to say I’m not a fan.

Where are we going with this? Well, across the desk came an invite from the lovely people at Yacht builder extraordinaire, Nautor Swan. The penultimate round of the single marque series

in conjunction with Rolex was gracing the coast of Sardinia, based around the legendary and beautiful Costa Smerelda Yacht Club, a jewel in the many jewelled crowns of The Aga Khan. I surveyed the itinerary: Owners Dinner, lovely. Rolex Crew Party, don’t mind if I do. Day on board a 115 foot Nautor Swan masterpiece, Solleone, owned by none other than Leonardo Ferragamo? Therein lies the rub. Out on deck, in the open sea. Alone.

Once more unto the breach dear friends. Once more…

I set off to Gatwick and onwards to Sardinia to meet the rest of my group. I wondered whether they were similarly green. I wondered if they could swim. I met at the airport Sabina from the agency kind enough to provide the invite, and we journeyed together to our home for the next few days; the lovely and slightly quaint Colonna Resort. Having Sabina proved invaluable from the start as her knowledge base, being so huge, allowed me a great insight into the history of the brand and the competition, as well as a wider sense of what the community offers. I am immediately aware that family is an ethos running through this industry. Crews comprise millionaire or billionaire owners plus the whole gamut of seafarers. Hobbyists, ex-pros, current pros all mesh together with a sense of solidarity one would rarely see from a team made of such disparate parts.

We entered the impeccably maintained and spectacularly well-appointed yacht club for our evening. We were treated to a delightful meal, plentiful wine and then a rousing set of speeches from the Commodore of Yacht Club Smeralda, event organiser and Leonardo Ferragamo, owner of the Nautor Swan brand.

The next day was scheduled for a morning of racing, wherein we would accompany the teams out into the open seas to watch the competition. As is seemingly a possible issue at times with naturally propelled instruments, the wind wasn’t playing ball until the afternoon. This allowed a morning of rest, or for me, a crash course in both yacht making and competitive yacht racing.

Nautor Swan, the boat builder of choice for the single marque extravaganza has been crafting sailing yachts since 1966 and is one of the few builders that take the process from inception through to delivery. Design, fabrication, and finish; everything is completed by in-house staff. In the five decades since, some 2,350 boats have been produced, ranging from 36 to 131 feet. Their range is divided into four lines: ClubSwan Yachts, Swan Yachts, Swan Maxi Yachts and new for 2023, the Swan Shadow, their first foray into motor yacht manufacture. The brand also has service hubs, with four across the Mediterranean

and 18 service points. Within the brand alongside the ClubSwan Racing offering, there is also Brokerage and Charter, meaning they are a company that remains active across the whole landscape and lifespan of a yacht.

I digress - I am here for the racing and as the brand says, it’s not just about the competition, but the desire to share stories, create memories and experience some of the most vigorous competitions on the calendar. Nautor Swan manages the whole programme alongside longterm partners BMW, Rolex and Randstad. The regattas include both One Design Regattas and rating events at the highest level. Competition is

fierce and played out across a packed calendar. To see it out on the water can make for some confusing viewing if one is as unaccustomed to the sport as I am. However, the effort and passion that goes into each turn of a handle is evident through each hoist of a sail and each plot of a course.

Seeing the speed and grace with which these colossal creations move is a testament not only to the quality of the product but also to the skill of the participants. One could compare it to some of the amateur motor racing classes such as the Ferrari Challenge and Porsche Cup, where relatively well-heeled owners pay for the privilege of racing their toys. This feels somehow more than that, with a purity that’s in a league of its own. Despite my inherent fear of nearly every aspect of the weekend (bar the drinking, naturally), there is something about the oldest form of transport, and about ships that discovered the world setting sail across huge bodies of water like the Mediterranean. Whilst technology has taken these vessels very much into the 21st century, the ideals behind wind, sail and man are clear for all to see.

Having the opportunity to view some of the vessels up close whilst docked was pretty awe-inspiring. These things range from the oldest survivor - a 1967 Swan 36 foot - to the gargantuan Solleone that I was lucky enough to spend a day aboard whilst watching the action from a distance. The attention to detail, fit and finish is something to behold, and extends from the smallest detail to the hull itself, with thousands of pieces made of the highest quality melding together to create floating masterpieces. The quality of some of the carbon on show would make automotive manufacturers cower.

As the brand encompasses so much history, there were boats from all eras of production and across all sizing classes. The newest products showcase some of the forward-thinking in design and aesthetics with impressive use of perfectly woven carbon fibre. Unfortunately due to the choppy waters in Porto Cervo, we weren’t able to sample the new motorised addition to the product lineup; a sleek, understated but hugely purposeful and poised futuristic design that takes cues from the brand’s history, but very much sets its own path. Conversation with project lead Roy Capasso, himself the 2010 Powerboat World Champion, further showed the passion that underpins all the products. That he looks like the lead in some brooding Italian crime drama adds somewhat to the aura behind what they do. New this year is the Swan Overshadow, based around the highperforming hull of the Swan Shadow. Everyone is invested, from designers, builders, owners and crew; each cog in the machine is a bought and paid-up member of team Nautor Swan.

“As the brand encompasses so much history, there were boats from all eras of production and across all sizing classes.”

The day aboard Solleone showcased just what yacht life can also represent aside from fast racing. With an on-board chef and plentiful bubbles to hand, I am not sure I could think of a better way to spend a day in the sun. Sat beneath azure skies looking off into the middle distance as a multitude of coloured sails danced in the haze, I almost forgot I was at sea. At one point I even went to venture towards the bow, then the yacht lurched on an errant swell, and I was instantly conscious of our distance from shore and the sparsity of the side protection - a tourist pleasure boat this certainly was not. I’ll admit I froze for a good ten minutes, or until I felt the sea was calm enough to enable an all-fours crawl back to midships. My fellow travellers had assumed my gripping of the main mast was just peacocking in the sun rather than a white-knuckle ride for all my senses, but I returned to the champagne in one piece.

The festivities continued into the night with the

all-crew party, held for literally everyone involved in the event, a throng of a thousand souls all united in their love of sailing. Good food was had (including some wonderful pasta dishes) and wine flowed plentifully from numerous bar stations. I danced. A lot. I ripped a lovely pair of raffia loafers I had purchased in Marrakech, and I nearly bagged a lift with a friend of King Carlos of Spain. From memory, I certainly enjoyed myself.

A hazy morning back in the Costa Smerelda club saw a slow but steady influx of owners and associates as the prize-giving ceremony marked the culmination of all the efforts. I was treated to a tour of the clubhouse itself and tried hard to feign as much nonchalance as possible as I took in some of the most incredible fossil and natural specimens I have seen outside of museums. Hell, outside of galleries. Hell, INSIDE galleries and museums. Back in the sun, a lovely middle-aged Italian man engaged me in ten minutes of eager conversation before bidding me a good day. Having never met him, I can only assume he thought I was the other ‘person of colour’ at the event. He was certainly friendly. Some lovely

“The festivities continued into the night with the allcrew party, held for literally everyone involved in the event”

Rolex pieces were handed out to people who were bolstering existing collections and handshakes and back slaps resounded all round. But there wasn’t any ego to discern, not really. Everyone was there for the same purpose. Not necessarily to win - well, perhaps, but the taking part truly is of just as much importance.

The adherence to the principles of the brand unites all who are involved with Nautor Swan. As a new participant in the theatre that yacht racing represents, I was taken aback and enthused in equal measure to see the commitment that each person has to not only the racing but to the brand, to their crew and their competitors, but mostly to their boats, which represent more than material things. They open a world to friendships and adventures that were evident and abundant across the weekend. Nautor Swan demonstrated with real panache how multifaceted a company they are, providing full service not just to the yachts that they build, but to the family they build with each event.

A Month in the Bag

Words: Naomi Lake - Beauty Editor

Marking the coming of spring - always long-awaited, eagerly anticipated and warmly welcomed - I sit at my writing desk and think about the cyclical recurring themes in beauty editorials. Now, seemingly out of nowhere following winter SPF options for Alpine trips, indulgently warming body treatments or evocative autumnal home scents, we are looking again for summer lip colours, back aside the runway for fashion week, and reaching for our passports for a muchneeded seasonal getaway.

I’m thinking of the perfect summer-defining scent for wandering warm olive groves at a spa retreat in The Algarve or Greece, and my ideal capsule holiday makeup bag for a weekend in Paris or Milan. You?

Taking us way back to an event in Spring 2021 for the launch of the skincare brand Wǒ, a perceptive comment by Millie Kendall MBE (co-founder of Brandstand Communications) left me thinking. Looking after beauty PR for some of the best, from The British Beauty Council to Jillian Dempsey, she is an oracle of knowledge. She explained how with years in the industry and access to so many wonderful products, she is always in awe of bloggers sharing their month’s empties (a regular social media feature, showing off products recently finished, along with personal assessments of each), musing, “It’s so rare I fully finish a product, so I know it’s something special when I do”.

In light of this, instead of a discussion on a particular topic or trend, I hereby share instead my season of empties. In a list that reads like The Hungry Caterpillar (except, of course, that this particular grub was ravenous for skincare) I share an honest account of what I am devouring at home.

ONE OVERNIGHT MASK:

COSRX ULTIMATE MOISTURIZING HONEY OVERNIGHT MASK

It might be labelled an overnight mask, but I also popped it on this morning before I sat at my desk and completely forgot to wash it off. FYI, my skin was happier because of it.

If you know you are going to have a night of lacklustre sleep, apply this on, over or in place of your night moisturiser before you hit the hay. The main ingredient, Propolis extract, is rich and nutritious, naturally anti-inflammatory and antiseptic, making it the perfect base for an overnight mask to heal, soothe and hydrate.

The overwhelming joy of this product radiates from a rich yet cooling gel that leaves no trace of stickiness. As such, it doesn’t dry into pores, yet is full-bodied enough to have the most weary-looking of complexions looking like you’ve just returned from a spa break.

TWO OILS:

BYBI - STRAWBERRY BOOSTER

The frozen strawberry daiq’ on a hot summer day is a crowd-pleaser even for those not big on sweet drinks. Indeed, it’s often the first foray for those dipping a straw into the world of cocktails. If you are new to facial oils, consider this your daiquiri.

Here to allay any dryness, reactivity, or general dullness to your skin you might be experiencing, the naturally present antioxidant ellagic acid helps protect from the environmental irritants we face day-to-day. Cold-pressed strawberry seed oil houses a punchy source of Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, and is satisfyingly viscous but readily absorbed.

A by-product of the juice industry, there’s no overpowering synthetic fruity scent - that’s not Bybi’s all-natural style. Just be sure to send your empty glass bottles back for their circular recycling scheme, ReBYBI, for their sterilisation and reuse.

“In a list that reads like The Hungry Caterpillar, I was ravenous for skincare.”

KLORIS - CBD SUPERBOOST FACE OIL

You know those comforts you reach for when it’s all going wrong? A share bar of Green and Blacks to be consumed in one sitting, unshared. A good book you are exceptionally invested in, or a film you have watched ten times before and know inside out. This small medicinal brown bottle is all of this and more for your skin.

After a previous article on CBD, there are quite a few products that have stayed in my routine, and as a lover of facial oils and most things within the adaptogen area of wellness, this facial oil has also been a solid fixture. I reach for this when my skin is having a moment of discontent, whether dry, dull or congested. After a long day and/or a late night, I know this oil will catch me when I fall from my ideal multi-step skincare regime, providing swift and soothing all-in-one hydration to perk up my complexion.

THREE MOISTURISERS:

QMS MEDICOSMETICSANTIOXIDANT CREAM

My favourite thing about this moisturiser? It has the texture of room-temperature butter (but without the associated oiliness), melts into the skin and has the

A combination of potent antioxidants such as tocopherol and bisabolol work to repair and soothe irritated skin, and capric triglyceride replenishes and hydrates. And, new to the forefront of skincare, we have glycogen, a natural moisturising factor potentially more potent than hyaluronic acid - ideal for smoothing fine lines and hydrating skin. It’s a fabulous all-rounder for all skin types, from dryer skin that needs a boost, to reactive skin that needs a calming touch.

TEMPLE SPA - TRUFFLE NOIR

A favourite since I was first introduced to it a few years back, this has been a saviour during nights spent in air-conditioned hotel rooms, hence tearing through the last of the pot with a very calculated level of abandon.

Its formula 30 contains active ingredients in exacting combinations to urge skin rejuvenation, including a trio of potent botanicals, Benifuuki Extract, Murasaki-Cha Extract and White Mucuna Extract. The list of benefits and scientific applications is extensive, three sizes of phospholipid capsules were created for skin affinity, using a technology that recreates a component naturally found in collagen. The body uses this at the most damaged areas of the skin to repair and restore.

All this, from a texture that is as devastatingly beautiful as it is effective.

FOUR CLEANSERS:

PELEGRIMS - VITAMIN BOOST FACIAL CLEANSER

lightest of nostalgic scents that you can’t quite place. My least favourite thing? My pot is empty and I forgot to repurchase it in time to not be left without.

But what exactly is in this pot that makes it so special?

Another tick for Tocopherol on this ingredients list, but with cocoa seed butter and squalane leading the chase for long-lasting hydration. Black truffle aids collagen production and soothes inflammation, whilst luxe ingredients Diamond and Platinum powders protect and physically illuminate, offering a much-enhanced performance for something that at first look might seem merely added for opulence.

DECORTE - AQ MELIORITY INTENSIVE REGENERATING MULTI CREAM

When I think back across my all-time favourites, this is a night cream I truly cherish; the jewel in the crown of my skincare collection, eminently revered and respected, and as such, my most mortifying empty.

This creamy low-foam cleanser is a multi-tasker, apply to dry skin to first remove makeup, or to dampened skin for a refreshing start to your morning. Brimming with skin-restoring Vitamin C sourced from Kent Cherry extract, it joins their namesake Pinot Noir Grape extract - also locally sourced. It’s a veritable feast for the senses, with Hazelnut, Pumpkin seed and Rosehip oils lending a richness to its feel, whilst a delicate awakening scent arises from Ylang-Ylang, Basil, Peppermint and antibacterial Tea-Tree oils.

QMS MEDICOSMETICS - DEEP GENTLE CLEANSER AND QMS MEDICOSMETICS - EPIGEN POLLUTION DETOX CLEANSING GEL

Deep Gentle Cleanser is probably one of my most suggested products to clients and models, and for good reason. I can’t recommend milk cleansers enough and strongly feel they don’t always get the airtime they deserve.

This one in particular is so intensely clarifying that even to the naked eye, regular use shows a visual reduction of congestion and redness. This might have something to do with the allantoin in the formula, an ingredient known to help to heal and promote new tissue growth, but all in all, it’s a formula full of hydrating humectants and fatty acids which will always keep your skin balanced, healthy and oh-so-clean.

We have a double whammy of QMS Medicosmetics empties here, with the second of my go-to cleansers.

ALGENIST - GENIUS ULTIMATE ANTI-AGEING MELTING CLEANSER

Another tube I turn to when I want something intensely nourishing, this clever little cleanser starts as a rich gel, melts into an oil, and then emulsifies to a milk as it rinses away. Algae-based polysaccharides in the ingredients list generously provide anti-ageing benefits from even skin tone to increased firmness and soothing redness.

I find myself talking about scent regularly across skincare: this is no exception. The subtle fragrance of avocado, olive and sweet almond oils is a delight to indulge in while your skin is absolved of makeup and impurities in one sweep. boost, to reactive skin that needs a calming touch.

FIVE SERUMS: WILLOWBERRY - PHA LIQUID EXFOLIATOR

No matter how good your regime is, the odd blemish will catch up with you from time to time.

I love overnight treatments to lazily mediate the argument between my skin and anything else going on in my life, and Willowberry provides the answer in one easy step. Gluconolactone and Lactobionic Acid make a duo of polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) offering gentle daily exfoliation, alongside soothing Aloe, Chamomile Water and alkalizing Cucumber extract in a smooth liquid formula that fits seamlessly into your daily routine.

Epigen Pollution Detox is a swift and gentle cleansing gel with AHA mandelic acid and lactobionic acid to gently exfoliate and resurface the skin. A new alternative to AHAs, polyhydroxy acid (PHA) is a more gentle ingredient due to its larger molecular size, making it less penetrating to the skin. Green coffee bean extract and aloe leaf juice further work to keep the skin calm and preserve the skin’s delicate lipid layer balance. It’s perfect alone, but if you’re feeling like you want your skin a little fresher or it’s been a full makeup kind of day, it’s a great follow-up to Deep Gentle Cleanser.

RAPIDLASH - EYELASH ENHANCING SERUM

One aspect of beauty I am asked about time and time again is lashes. An area of routine care so easily overlooked, yet as waterproof mascaras get hardier, we run the risk of causing damage to our lashes when removing these enduring products. Even how you sleep can affect your lashes – it’s my favourite party trick whilst doing someone’s makeup to guess on which side they sleep from the way their lashes lie…

Anyhow, how does this relate to this list, you ask? My number one recommendation and one of my most repurchased products over the years has been RapidLash Eyelash Enhancing Serum. Whenever I notice my lashes are looking less

than lustrous, it will be because I have slipped on this particular aspect of my routine. To tell a secret, my natural lashes aren’t particularly great - they are sparse and a little short, but with a daily slick of this serum I see about a 30% increase in length and thickness (this is of course anecdotal, but it impresses me nonetheless).

A gentle warning, however: this is not an overnight transformation. Working on each new growing lash, there is a small delay in seeing the effects. When you do, it’s well worth the investment in your time.

QMS MEDICOSMETICS - EPIGEN POLLUTION DETOX SERUM

It’s at this point you might be thinking this is a very QMS-heavy list. That adage of ‘everything always runs out at the same time’ is mainly because you initially purchased a few things in one hit. That cycle continues perpetually, it’s nothing personal.

This serum is an everyday must along with your SPF. Formulated to directly address environmental damage and reverse it, it works directly with your skin on a cellular level to detoxify and repair, making skin more resilient. Shea and squalane hydrate and smooth skin, and you will notice an overall smoothing effect alongside a little more bounce and a brighter glow overall. It’s another one for the repurchase list.

OLEHENRIKSEN - BANANA BRIGHT VITAMIN C SERUM

I love a product that shows you a difference straight away, and this serum is like turning on a lightbulb from within for your skin. Banana-powder-inspired

pigments turn up the brightness, giving your skin luminance from the instant it’s applied. Throughout the day, Hyaluronic acid and AHA’s plump and clarify skin, whilst Vitamin C and E in the ingredients list do good work in defence of the skin’s facets, reducing pigmentation and increasing elasticity.

If you’re feeling extra fruity, layer on a few more pumps and let it sit for a while before applying your moisturiser – your skin will thank you for it.

REDUIT - CLEAR DEW POD

You might be able to tell by now that I am a serum junkie. I love to mix it up, depending on what my skin is up to. With breakouts being a continual problem for me at present, I have a few tricks up my sleeve, and Clear Dew is most definitely up there. For angry blemishes, deep-set blackheads,

or enduring congestion, this nifty serum (paired with the Reduit Spa to seamlessly deliver the treatment as a super-fine mist) helps you address any area that might be tender, hands-free. The antibacterial and oil-controlling ingredients get to work to reduce current (and future) breakouts and help to allay post-blemish pigmentation too.

It’s always bittersweet coming to the end of a product and contemplating a repurchase. Do I stick with something I love, or is the grass greener elsewhere? In truth, only you will know the level of your desire to stray away and explore something new. But maybe something from this list might tempt you, as across all the products that I am blessed to try, these are my repeat orders at the buffet.

Alice Neel Hot off the Griddle

Words: Rose Mazillius Images: Courtesy of the Estate of Alice Neel Alice Neel (1900-1984). An exhibition detailing a lifetime of work of an artist unflinching in her connection to painting and capturing the life-essence of those she chose as her sitters.

From 16 Feb to 23 May 2023

the Barbican gallery welcomes Alice Neel, the foremost painter and, in her own words, ‘anarchic humanist’ to their programme in her largest UK exhibition to date. Curated by Eleanor Nairne, the exhibition takes us through Neel’s life and work in chronological order, from her birth in 1900 in rural Pennsylvania to her final years in 1980’s New York at the height of her fame, passing through the changing political and social landscape of America in the 20th century.

The story told is one of deep love and deep loss. Losing people she loved, Neel faced heartbreak through experiencing the death of her first-born child to then losing her husband, Cuban artist Carlos Enríquez Gómez, who fled to Havana with their second child in the late 1920s. It is these stories interwoven through the exhibition’s chronology that gives the sense that Neel knew suffering.

Unshy to the injustices of life, Neel painted stories through the people living them. She felt instinctively from an early age that art was her calling and found herself depicting scenes of Havana and its people in her formative years as a painter. After a painful

and traumatic entry to young family life, Neel spent time in various psychiatric hospitals whilst she aimed to process the psychological turmoil of her early adulthood. During this time, painting became her life blood, strengthening her will to survive.

Living in New York’s Greenwich Village and a new chapter beginning, her work ventured into the peculiar and often surreal depictions of lovers and friends to paintings capturing the blazon realities of political America. In one room her closest friends and lovers are shown in nude abandon. Multiple penises are crafted on the body of one man with a slight expression of mania to his face, as one might expect of a character which elicited a numerous-phallic representation from an experimental Neel at the time.

It was during this period that she gained employment through the Public Works of Art Project, which was launched by the government to improve widespread unemployment and poverty after the Wall Street Crash of 1929. Receiving a wage for her work, she painted moments of conflict and protest in New York City - immortalising those fighting for a voice was a subject matter close to her heart. In one work titled, ‘Uneeda Biscuit Strike, 1936’ we see the chaos of men and women fleeing police on horseback

as the tiny figures of small children stand in witness next to their mothers clutching babes in arms, the backs of their vibrant red and green coats popping against the sombre tones of the ensuing action. Was Neel drawn to capturing the gaze of the innocent child owing to an acute awareness of a child’s fragility?

A resident of Spanish Harlem in the 1940s, Neel’s work paid attention to the lives of mothers and children in her community. A single mother again herself with her third child, son Richard, she then met Marxist filmmaker Sam Brody who became father to her fourth child, son Hartley. It was during this time that her work started to take the form and style she has become most remembered for. Portraits of mothers and their children as well as political figures she admired, the distinctive bold, thick black lines structuring their figures, the form of them both strong and fragile in the contour of a singular stroke. Works such as ‘Black Spanish-American Family, 1950’ and ‘Georgie Arce No.2, 1955’, demonstrate this distinctive quality of her skill as a painter, later becoming a hallmark of her personal patent as an artist.

Never more apparent is this style than in the final rooms of the exhibition. Canvas after canvas one is met with gaze after gaze; a conveyor belt of the sitters she welcomed to the white and blue striped armchair of her apartment. To sit for her is a mission futile in fuelling ego. She became known not for the flattery she’d bestow her subjects. People of varying class, colour, wealth, sexuality, age, body-type and prominence are here. Even Andy Warhol, perhaps her most famous sitter, makes an appearance – here he is shown as vulnerable, as human and with scars on his torso, we seek a moment with him that is different to the image of the cool, almost caricatured man photographic history portrays. To have painted Warhol demonstrates the breadth of people she painted throughout her life. Just as she latterly painted those both famed and notorious, her belief was in the necessity to depict those who were not seen, to make visible the invisible both in body and feeling, ‘One of the primary motives of my work was to reveal the inequalities and pressures as shown in the psychology of the people I painted.’

Approaching her sixtieth year, Neel sought therapy for the first time in her life. It was then that she raised the personal courage to approach the curator of the Museum of Modern Art at the time, Frank O’Hara, curious to see where her work might land. Set against the rising second wave feminist

One of the primary motives of my work was to reveal the inequalities and pressures as shown in the psychology of the people I painted.

“ ”

CLOCKWISE FROM BELOW: | RITA AND HUBERT, 1954 | GEORGIE ARCE NO.2, 1955 LONTE EBERS, NEW YORK | UNEEDA BISCUIT STRIKE, 1936 | NAZIS MURDER JEWS, 1936

movement the spotlight finally landed, and Neel was standing centre stage. In the final room of the Barbican’s extensive exhibition, we see and hear her speak in the 1978 film crafted by Nancy Baer titled, ‘Collector of Souls’ tracking Neel’s life and work. In a

moment of commentary to her late in life success she replies to the interviewer, ‘Better late than never!’. It is this humour which punctuates throughout the suffering and injustice of human inequality she chose to depict throughout her life’s work.

Returning my thoughts to the school children I entered with, my mind wanders to the notion of her work commanding the attention of young and old today. The vast intersectional identities of her sitters standing proudly on the walls of the Barbican - inspirational markers of one woman’s commitment to capturing humanity as she uniquely encountered it. One might argue; is there a common sense among all of us which we feel links us intrinsically? How unique is Neel’s personal depiction of humanity, versus a common connection amongst us all on what it means to be human. She stated herself: ‘the best reason that people go into art and stick to it is because it’s essential to them feeling that they’re living’.

Existential questions abundantly raised? Perhaps, but take these with a pinch of salt. Neel certainly did.

ALICE NEEL: HOT OFF THE GRIDDLE

BARBICAN GALLERY, LONDON 16 FEB – 23 MAY 2023

TO BOOK TICKETS VISIT: BARBICAN.ORG.UK/ALICENEEL

In the final room of the Barbican’s extensive exhibition, we see and hear her speak in the 1978 film crafted by Nancy Baer titled, ‘Collector of Souls’ tracking Neel’s life and work. ”

LEFT TO RIGHT: | JACKIE CURTIS AND RITTA REDD, 1970 | ANDY WARHOL, 1970

Josef Hoffmann, Brooch, 1911, Grubman Collection ,

Photo: Leopold Museum, Vienna

In Pursuit of the Dream:

America’s Migrating Millionaires

Words: Dr. Juerg Steffen, FIMC, Chief Executive Officer of Henley & Partners America is home to a staggering 770 billionaires and 9,630 centi-millionaires with wealth of USD 100 million or more. The total private wealth held in the country is USD 65 trillion, making it the world’s wealthiest nation. It has been a cradle of prosperity for decades, but the tide appears to be turning for the nation built on the energy of disparate groups of immigrants in search of their American Dream.

On the global stage, the race for greater affluence between East and West has commenced. On the home front, in addition to considerable ‘semigration’ - where Americans are moving cross-country in search of improved opportunities and security for their families and their wealth - there is a surge in interest and take-up of investment migration programs, which offer alternative residence rights and additional citizenships in host countries in return for significant financial contributions.

WHERE IN THE STATES ARE THE MILLIONAIRES?

American high-net-worth individuals are certainly on the move. Austin, Texas is one of the fastest growing cities in terms of the number of millionaires that reside there; over the past decade that number has grown by over 100%. West Palm Beach, Scottsdale, Miami, Greenwich

& Darien have also proven to be blossoming millionaire magnets. In terms of the top US wealth hubs, however, Henley & Partners’ USA Wealth Report confirms that New York City (340,000 millionaires), the Bay Area (285,000), and Los Angeles (205,400 millionaires) remain at the zenith of such lists.

US millionaires are not just moving to new states. A rising number are now setting their sights abroad in search of greener pastures, and affluent Americans are one of the fastest growing segments applying for investment migration solutions globally.

In addition to planning their next move, US families are also mapping out how the fortunes they have amassed over the past decades will transfer onto the next generation — a cohort of globally-minded, innovative individuals who are living in a very unpredictable period of our human history. Family offices in the USA have been mushrooming across all the key wealth

hubs as the patriarchs and matriarchs of these influential empires seek support to smoothly transition to the next generation, and identify the best investment solutions to achieve their legacy goals.

WHY ARE AMERICANS ON THE MOVE?

America was largely founded on the energy of entrepreneurially minded immigrants, who flocked to the new continent to build a better future for themselves and their families. Known for being the land of opportunity, the USA has for centuries prided itself on having the highest number of top-tier universities and an enviable business ecosystem. Today, Americans are still motivated by the same drivers; the desire to secure their children’s future and education, to protect their wealth and to guarantee access to top tier healthcare. However, a growing number of families in the USA are becoming disenchanted with the American Dream and

seeking new opportunities abroad.

A multitude of factors is motivating Americans to set up international bases, but most notably the

taxation on the rich. Financial markets have been detrimentally impacted by the pandemic, inflation, and the ongoing war in Ukraine that has affected supply chains and energy prices. As a result, Americans are currently experiencing their own bleak ‘winter of discontent’. In many respects, this is also a global trend, and in line with our forecast for 2023 that estimates that over 125,000 millionaires worldwide will migrate and relocate to another country this year – setting a new record.

to build a future proof portfolio of residence and citizenship options.

THE PROWESS OF THE EAST’S PURCHASING POWER

ongoing civil unrest, political polarization caused by the partisan rifts between Republicans and Democrats, and mounting pressure to increase

Since 2020, America’s wealthiest have been avidly investing in the Portugal Golden Residence Permit Program, the Greece Golden Visa Program, and citizenship by investment programs in Grenada, St. Lucia, and St. Kitts and Nevis among others. If Europe continues to curb access to residence by investment programs within the European Union, Americans will likely pivot to solutions in other regions, such as the UAE’s Residence by Investment offering or the Singapore Global Investor Program, as they seek

Although America has an undeniable lead on the private wealth scale, by 2030 this may no longer be the case. There are several key areas where the USA is fighting to retain its front-runner position, whether on the environmental, financial, or political front as war in Ukraine continues, and trouble persists in the Middle East and Taiwan.

In terms of wealth, many factors converge to define a country’s ranking. Rather significant ones are the size and the might of its consumer population. These consumers are by default the ones who fuel the economy and provide muchneeded demand for a country to prosper.

Historically, Western consumers represented 75% of the global consumer population, but the

“Although America has an undeniable lead on the private wealth scale, by 2030 this may no longer be the case.”

scales have tipped and they now embody only 60%. This is in part due to the rapid rate of economic growth in wealth hubs across China, India, Vietnam, and Singapore to name a few. In fact, according to The Centi-Millionaire Report published by Henley & Partners in 2022, Vietnam is set to have the fastest growing centi-millionaire population globally by 2032. Another notable trend is that the population in the West is on the whole aging and shrinking as birth-rates stagnate year on year, whereas in Asia the situation is quite the opposite, with populations growing at an exponential rate.

home to seven times as many millionaires as its Eastern rival. Nonetheless, it is estimated that thanks to Asia’s rapid economic growth coupled with its growing consumer population, the composition of the global consumer populus could transform dramatically reducing the USA’s proportion to a mere 30%. If that trend were to play out in the coming years, America’s comparative influence in financial markets and global affairs would also significantly diminish in the not-so-distant future.

The USA Wealth Report recently published by Henley & Partners, highlights that America currently has 32% of the world’s total wealth, three-fold that of China. The USA is also TR

The American Dream that is floundering in its birthplace is being reconceptualized by the developing consumer class. Reaching that base and rediscovering the dream might well require stepping beyond America’s borders and laying foundations elsewhere.

“The USA Wealth Report recently published by Henley & Partners, highlights that America currently has 32% of the world’s total wealth, three-fold that of China.”

CEO DR JUERG STEFFEN AT THE 26TH ANNUAL ECONOMIST GOVERNMENT ROUNDTABLE

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ROYAL ASCOT

A Spectacle of Elegance and Tradition

Royal Ascot is the quintessentially British racing event of the season. The prestigious equestrian fixture, held annually, is a treasured tradition that combines the thrill of racing with high fashion, fine dining, and lively entertainment. This year, Royal Ascot 2023 promises to be another unforgettable occasion. Here, we delve into the highlights of the week, the exquisite bars and restaurants on offer, and the ever-important dress code that defines this most glamorous of affairs.

Words: Peter J Robinson - Managing Editor

CAPTAIN AND MRS AMBROSE GODDARD STROLL AROUND THE ENCLOSURE ON THE OPENING DAY OF ROYAL ASCOT, 1925

oyal Ascot, founded by Queen Anne in 1711, is Britain’s most popular race meeting. Welcoming around 300,000 visitors over five days in June, the event boasts an undeniable aura of racing prestige and fervent elegance.

Each day of the week begins with the Royal Procession, although 2023 will be the first year the event is held since the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. With The King yet to confirm his attendance, no doubt the tradition of arriving along the track in horsedrawn landaus will be fulfilled by accompanying Members of the Royal Family. Key days during the race week include the Opening Day, Ladies’ Day, and the climactic final day, which features the prestigious Diamond Jubilee Stakes.

Ascot Opening Day, immortalised by the Lerner and Loewe musical, “My Fair Lady,” is

a spectacle of fashion and tradition. The dress code is an essential facet of Royal Ascot’s allure. In the Royal Enclosure, men are required to wear a full morning suit with a waistcoat and a black or grey top hat. Ladies must don elegant dresses and hats with a minimum base of four inches. In recent years, Royal Ascot fashion has entered a new era, with ladies encouraged to swap their traditional race-day dresses and head-turning hats for sharply-tailored suits. The sleek ensembles, which could be seen on royal guests like the Princess of Wales, demonstrate how Royal Ascot fashion has evolved over time, adapting to the trends of each era. However certain rules remain unwavering; outfits must be worn with a matching jacket or top. Each section has its own set of sartorial guidelines, of course.

Regardless of the evolutions in fashion, one thing remains constant: dressing to the nines is always in fashion at Ascot.

Over the course of five days, attendees will consume 56,000 bottles of champagne, 44,000

1928

1938

bottles of wine, 21,000 jugs of Pimm’s, and 60,000 finger sandwiches. Royal Ascot is, after all, a celebration of British culture and a testament to the nation’s love for horses, racing, and high fashion.

To fully enjoy the Royal Ascot experience, guests have a plethora of exquisite bars and restaurants to choose from, each offering a unique atmosphere and delectable menu. The Parade Ring Restaurant, for example, offers a fine dining experience with stunning views of the racecourse and the Royal Procession. Meanwhile, the elegant Wyndham Club located in the delightful Royal Enclosure Gardens is a short stroll to the Winners’ Enclosure. The Veranda is located at the superb vantage point of the winning post on the inside of the track; this exclusive restaurant combines private indoor tables with flexible outdoor seating to overlook the panorama of Royal Ascot.

This year, Tom Barnes - Executive Head Chef at three Michelin-starred L’Enclume and one Michelin-starred Rogan & Co - returns to Royal

Ascot with his exceptional six-course tasting menu in The Old Press Room. An inviting restaurant full of charm and character, and a perfect venue in which to enjoy outstanding food for the ultimate Fine Dining experience.

The sixth-floor Panoramic Restaurant also promises an afternoon of gastronomic delight, as two Michelin-starred chef Raymond Blanc OBE returns as chef-in-residence for Royal Ascot 2023.

The Sandringham is a striking orangeryinspired structure, nestled in a sunny corner of Lavender Courtyard, just a short stroll from the trackside and the beautiful Royal Enclosure Gardens. An ideal spot for a relaxed yet vibrant day at the Royal Meeting.

As Royal Ascot 2023 approaches, anticipation builds for yet another remarkable week of racing, fashion, and celebration. From the thrilling races and the dazzling fashion to the delightful dining experiences, Royal Ascot is a truly unique event that’s not to be missed. 1968 2006

Our Guide For First-Time Royal Ascot Racegoers

Acquiring Tickets: The first step is to secure tickets for the Royal Enclosure, the most exclusive and sought-after area at Ascot. While obtaining tickets is by invitation only, members of reputable racing clubs are welcome. Alternatively, you can opt for the Queen Anne Enclosure or Village Enclosure tickets, which are still impressive and offer a taste of the Royal Ascot experience.

Dress Code: Some would say that Royal Ascot is as much about fashion as it is about horse racing. Adhering to the dress code is essential. For men, morning dress is required, including a black or grey morning coat, waistcoat, tie (not a cravat), and black shoes. Women must wear a dress, jumpsuit or skirt suit of modest length with straps of at least one inch in width. Hats or fascinators are mandatory.

1. 2. 3.

Transportation: If you’re planning on staying on the sauce, a chauffeur or traditional horse-drawn carriage might be the order of the day. If you’re planning on following tradition, you’ll want to load an ornate 12-seater dining table into a horse box with obligatory candelabras. Be sure to plan your arrival time in accordance with the Royal Procession, which takes place at 2 pm daily.

Dining and Socialising: Reserve a table in advance at one of the exclusive restaurants within the Royal Enclosure. These fine-dining establishments require reservations and have strict dress codes. Alternatively, you can enjoy a lavish picnic on the lawns, complete with caviar and champagne.

Betting Etiquette: Be sure to familiarise yourself with the race card and betting options. The tote is the official betting system of the Royal Ascot, and placing a bet with a bookmaker is a quintessential part of the experience. However, remember to bet within your means and maintain ‘some’ decorum when celebrating your wins.

The Royal Procession: The Royal Procession is a highlight of the event, with the Royal Family arriving in horse-drawn carriages to signal the start of the races. Ensure you have a prime spot to witness this regal tradition, and don’t forget to show your respect by standing during the procession.

4. 5. 6. 7.

WWW.ASCOT.COM FOR FURTHER DETAILS

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Pembleton Motor Company operates at the intersection of vintage design and contemporary technology, creating brand-new cars that evoke feelings of nostalgia and redefine what it means to be connected to the road.

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Wrist Appeal

Words: The Editors

2023 has, thus far, been another stellar year in the ever-ticking world of watches. From the giants of the timepiece industry launching bold new iterations to the onward marching revisiting of classics, there’s a dynamic market out there with pieces to suit every outfit, every taste, every moment.

As ever, we’ve flitted our way from expo to horology maison, our eyes peeled and our hearts open to the releases that set pulses racing. From eye-watering complications, dial details and design flourishes aplenty to the sleekly minimalist and deceptively understated, we give you our pick for the season.

Nomos Glashütte Tangente Neomatik

While there’s plenty to be said for the timehonoured watchmakers of Swiss valley villages, meticulously piecing together complications alongside lakes of glacial water, I’ve always had a soft spot for the concrete, the brutalist and the retrofuturist. Nomos Glashütte was founded in post-unification East Germany, and their timepieces revel in the minimalist and concise. Indeed, their watches celebrate Bauhaus design and are somehow

reminiscent of Cold War graphic art - the new Tangente Neomatik being the finest example of this stark aesthetic of them all.

A bidirectional winding rotor, automatic movement and gorgeous set of dials result in a statement watch that’s the perfect finishing flourish to the sharpest suit in your wardrobe. Wunderbar.

Hermès H08 39X39

Moving even further away from Switzerland, the H08 39x39 from prestige fashion brand Hermès is a gorgeous encapsulation of what the maison does best; expressing Parisian chic with the faintest touch of eccentricity, exquisite design and accuracy standards, and no shortage of Gallic nonchalance.

The H08 39x39 is a masterstroke of aesthetic vision from creative director Véronique Nichanian, and brings a distinctive menswear angle to a timepiece that looks and feels flawless, and performs every bit as well as you’d expect. Ideal for formalwear as well as for sauntering between wine bars, you can’t help but admire its versatility and style.

Rado Captain Cook Bronze

There are watches that make you feel like a gentleman spy, those which make you feel like Steve McQueen, and those which conjure dreams of sitting in the Oval Office. However, I’ve a penchant for timepieces that unleash a spirit of adventure - of Jacques Cousteau beneath the waves and a golden age of discovery. Enter the Captain Cook watch by Rado, a 60’s classic inspired by the tall ships of yesteryear and reinvigorated to a bold new audience of intrepid voyagers and globetrotters.

While there are many iterations of this dashingly handsome watch available, the bronze release (very much the case metal of the moment) paired with the forest green dial has to be the best of the bunch. It’s a diver’s watch of considerable pedigree, and offers 300 metres of resistance alongside an 80 hour power reserve, as well as a visual appeal that’s sure to turn heads.

Frederique Constant Monolithic Manufacture

We’ve had the Frederique Constant Monolithic Manufacture on our target list since the press release dropped into our respective inboxes in 2021. It’s showpiece, a a silicon oscillator beating at an unprecedented pace of 288,000 vibrations per hour.

The 3.0mm thin FC-810 caliber movement ensures a sleek profile, while the exhibition case back showcases the intricate workings within. The watch’s clean, classic design with its Clous de Paris guilloché dial and Breguet-style hands exudes sophistication. Limited to just 810 pieces, this exceptional timepiece is a must for the watch box.

Montblanc Heritage

Drawing inspiration from the esteemed Minerva timepieces of the 1940s and 1950s, Montblanc’s Heritage collection masterfully fuses the sophistication of a bygone era with contemporary design sensibilities and cutting-edge technology.

The Montblanc Heritage Automatic presents itself in a refined 40mm stainless steel case, featuring a radiant silvery-white dial graced with rhodiumplated Arabic numerals and subtle dot indices. The

timepiece’s hands are tastefully accentuated by Super-LumiNova* for optimal visibility.

Under the hood, the Montblanc Heritage Automatic is driven by the exquisite MB 24.27 automatic movement, a testament to Montblanc’s horological expertise. To complete the ensemble, the watch is elegantly paired with a steel mesh Milanese bracelet.

Vietnam

A Tapestry of Timeless

Words: Florean Smout

Journey with us to the enigmatic land cultural, natural, and contemporary

Once clouded by the tumult of since revealed a trove of multifaceted reshaped my perception indelible mark

Vietnam

Timeless Tradition

Smout - Assistant Travel Editor

of Vietnam, where a mesmerising medley of experiences awaits the intrepid traveller. war, this captivating country has multifaceted charms that have perception and left an mark on my heart.

From the lush terraced rice paddies to mysterious forests and serpentine rivers, Vietnam’s natural splendour is nothing short of breathtaking. The nation’s rich cultural tapestry, a seamless fusion of Asian and French influences, is beautifully woven into the very fabric of daily life, from its unique architecture to exquisite cuisine.

One such influence of the French colonial era is Vietnam’s thriving coffee culture. When the French arrived in the 19th century, they brought with them a passion for bold, dark roasts and a penchant for pairing them with creamy condensed milk to temper the bitterness. The Vietnamese embraced this novel pairing, and it has since become a beloved fixture in their coffee rituals.

Vietnamese coffee is celebrated worldwide for its exceptional taste and intoxicating aroma, owed in large part to the robusta beans cultivated in the highlands. These beans have a bold, rich flavour profile, with hints of caramel and nuts, which is further enhanced by roasting in butter or oil, which lends the coffee a silky, creamy texture. The traditional brewing method using a phin filter allows the coffee to slowly drip and meld with sweetened condensed milk, producing a velvety concoction. For a truly unique experience, indulge in a Hanoi-originated delight, “cà phê trứng” or egg coffee, where whipped egg yolks and condensed milk are blended with strong coffee, creating a rich, frothy and utterly delicious beverage.

Modern Vietnam is a country reborn, with pulsating metropolises like Ho Chi Minh City offering a fusion of traditional and contemporary charms. Culinary adventurers will find themselves in a gastronomic paradise as they explore Vietnam’s flavorful cuisine, marked by its fresh ingredients, bold flavours and regional specialities. Influenced by Chinese, French, and Indian gastronomies and shaped by the diverse bounty of the nation’s landscape, Vietnamese cuisine offers iconic dishes such as pho, banh mi, and banh xeo, alongside lesser-known but equally delicious delights like bun cha and ca kho to.

Once a nation scarred by conflict, Vietnam has blossomed into a peaceful and inviting oasis, eager to share its rich heritage and singular experiences with those who venture into its enchanting embrace. Whether you seek serenity, exhilaration, or cultural immersion, Vietnam promises a journey you won’t soon forget, and might leave you longing for more.

CLOCKWISE: HO CHI MINH SQUARE | HANOI TRAIN STREET | THE FRENCH QUARTER HANOI | CAM RAHN BAY | THE GOLDEN BRIDGE NEAR DA NANG

Hanoi

Welcome to the vibrant heart of Vietnam: Hanoi. A city where ancient traditions and modern flair merge into an exhilarating symphony of life, Hanoi is an exquisite destination for the discerning traveller seeking a unique, luxury experience.

As you step into the bustling streets of Hanoi, you’ll be greeted by a seemingly chaotic dance of honking horns, bustling traffic, and entire families gracefully sharing a single motorbike. Yet as you allow yourself to become attuned to the rhythm of the city, you’ll begin to understand the intricate choreography at play, with each participant moving in harmonious accord.

values. You’ll be transported to a peaceful world of beauty and wisdom as you explore the temple’s exquisite architecture and serene gardens.

The imposing Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is another essential stop on your Hanoi sojourn. This grand edifice on Ba Dinh Square, flanked by stately government buildings, houses the embalmed remains of the revered Communist leader. While some may find the concept of visiting mausoleums of embalmed Communist leaders a curious choice, it is undeniably a key part of the country’s history and identity.

Finally, lose yourself in the enchanting labyrinth of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, where narrow streets and alleys beckon you with the aromas of authentic Vietnamese cuisine and the inviting warmth of traditional shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Hanoi is a city that caters to every taste and desire. Whether your passion lies in history, culture, nature, or simply basking in the electrifying energy of a thriving metropolis, Hanoi promises an unforgettable luxury experience that will leave you longing for more.

Beyond the lively cityscape, Hanoi is an oasis of natural wonder. Lush vegetation blankets the city, as trees and plants burst forth from walls, roofs, and balconies, veiling entire buildings in a jungle-like embrace. Wander through the city’s picturesque parks and beside tranquil lakes - such as the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake - and you’ll understand why Hanoi is a beloved destination for both locals and visitors alike.

For the culturally curious, Hanoi is steeped in history waiting to be uncovered. The haunting Hoa Lo Prison, also known as the “Hanoi Hilton,” offers a poignant glimpse into Vietnam’s turbulent past. Our expert guide illustrated the resilience of the Vietnamese people, underlined by their enduring philosophy of “đi lên”, which means to move forward and embrace progress.

Delve further into Vietnam’s rich heritage with a visit to the Temple of Literature, the country’s first university, established during the Ly Dynasty in 1070. This magnificent complex of courtyards, pavilions, and ancient buildings is a testament to the nation’s reverence for education and traditional

“The days of this society is numbered. The words stood tall, stencilled into a lofty floor to ceiling mirror.”

BOTTOM: LOCAL COFFEE SHOP TOP: TEMPLE OF LITERATURE

The Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi

In the vibrant heart of Hanoi’s French Quarter, the charming Sofitel Legend Metropole Hotel invites you on a journey through time. With its storied past dating back to 1901, the Metropole has hosted a star-studded cast of characters from Charlie Chaplin to Jane Fonda, making it a veritable landmark of historic indulgence and elegance.

Upon my arrival after a long-haul flight, I was graciously welcomed and after a rejuvenating drink, shown to my room. It was a seamless blend of classic French style and modern comforts, serving as a sanctuary from the bustling city.

Fighting off jet lag, I found solace at the hotel’s serene poolside retreat nestled amid lush greenery. As I sipped a slightly more intoxicating beverage and dipped into the refreshing water, I felt invigorated, eager to explore further.

Le Beaulieu, the hotel’s prestigious restaurant,

offered a sumptuous lunch menu featuring French classics with Vietnamese flair. The tantalising flavours and elegant ambience transported me to another era.

Later, I ventured to Angelina, the hotel’s stylish cocktail bar, where I indulged in a collection of creative concoctions inspired by the hotel’s legendary guests. Whether it was a Hemingway Daiquiri or a Marilyn Monroe Martini, each sip was a tribute to the glamorous past.

As dusk settled, I retreated to the intimate Bamboo Bar for a signature Charlie Chaplin cocktail, a fitting homage to the famous actor who once graced these halls. The warm, inviting atmosphere offered the perfect respite, while skilled mixologists served up classic and contemporary creations alike.

I did not manage to find time in my busy schedule, yet I highly recommend making time to enjoy

Afternoon tea at Le Club Bar’s conservatory. It’s a timeless experience. Surrounded by elegant decor, it provides guests the opportunity to savour fragrant teas and delicate treats, all the while admiring the hotel’s picturesque courtyard.

A tour of the hotel’s renowned wartime bunker offered a glimpse into Hanoi’s complex past. Constructed in the 1960s as a safe haven for guests and staff during the Vietnam War, the bunker now stands as a testament to the Metropole’s enduring legacy and dedication to preserving history. Jane Fonda’s infamous visit to Hanoi and her tour of this very bunker further cement the hotel’s historical significance.

My stay at the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hotel was an experience I won’t soon forget. With its rich heritage, luxurious amenities, and unparalleled service, it’s an ideal destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in Hanoi’s captivating charm. From idyllic poolside lounging to delectable French-Vietnamese fare, tantalising cocktails to indulgent lunches, the Metropole offers a wealth of experiences to charm and inspire.

CLOCKWISE: GRAND ENTRANCE HOTEL METROPOLE HANOI | ROOM WITH GARDEN | LA TERRACE | LE CLUB BAR

Cam Ranh

Cam Ranh is an alluring a resort town nestled along Vietnam’s picturesque coastline. As a rising destination, this serene sanctuary beckons those in search of a tranquil retreat, brimming with unspoiled natural beauty, and authentic charm.

The radiant beaches of Cam Ranh are truly a sight to behold, presenting an array of sun-drenched activities to satisfy every type of traveller. Indulge in a day of sunbathing, swimming, snorkelling, or scuba diving, and lose yourself in the crystalline embrace of Cam Ranh’s shimmering waters.

As you venture beyond the shore, Cam Ranh unveils its rich tapestry of cultural landmarks and historical

treasures. Marvel at the ancient Po Nagar Cham Towers, a testament to the 7th-century heritage, or gaze upon the Nha Trang Cathedral, an exquisite embodiment of French Gothic architecture.

Embrace the allure of Cam Ranh, an idyllic haven that promises a relaxing experience, enveloped in breathtaking natural splendour.

LEFT PAGE CLOCKWISE: CAM RAHN BAY | FISHING BOATS | THATCHED STRAW PARASOLS

Alma Resort Cam Ranh

Nestled on the shores of the South China Sea, Alma Resort Cam Ranh boasts a prime location with stunning views. The resort is a mere 10-minute drive from Cam Ranh International Airport and provides a complimentary shuttle service to the charming city of Nha Trang, renowned for its beautiful beaches, vibrant markets, and cultural attractions.

To bask in the sun on the pristine shores of Vietnam’s Cam Ranh peninsula is to surround yourself with breathtaking scenery; a chance to indulge in unparalleled extravagance. Welcome to Alma Resort, a five-star beachfront haven that appeals to travellers of all ages seeking a memorable experience.

As soon as we set foot on this tropical paradise, the warm and gracious staff at Alma Resort made us

feel right at home. The resort has been thoughtfully designed to cater to families, couples, and solo adventurers – with a diverse array of activities and facilities to suit all tastes and ages.

Choose from a lavish range of accommodation, featuring opulent villas, stylish suites, and chic apartments. Each dwelling is designed for comfort, boasting modern furnishings, and the usual suspects, such as air conditioning and complimentary Wi-Fi to keep the kids entertained. The sumptuous villas come with private pools and gardens, perfect for families or friends seeking an intimate retreat.

Epicurean delights await at the myriad of dining venues. Feast on international and Vietnamese delicacies at the resort’s main restaurant, Alma Garden, or revel in a romantic dinner by the sea at

the beachside Atlantis, where fresh seafood is the order of the day.

Alma Resort Cam Ranh offers a veritable realm of pleasure and leisure to immerse oneself into. Dive into the expansive pool complex, featuring water slides and a lazy river that families with kids will adore. Stay active with the state-of-the-art fitness centre, tennis courts, and water sports offerings such as snorkelling, kayaking, and windsurfing. To unwind, surrender to the blissful treatments at the spa, where massages, facials, and body scrubs await.

Younger guests will find endless fun at the kids’ club and dedicated play area, where they can socialise and play in a safe environment while parents enjoy some well-deserved time off.

Alma Resort Cam Ranh is a strong destination that promises a memorable experience for all visitors. Its exceptional staff, idyllic surroundings, and modern facilities make it a great option for families and couples alike.

RIGHT PAGE CLOCKWISE: ALMA RESORT TERRACED POOLS | POOL BAR | VILLA WITH PRIVATE POOL | ATLANTIS RESTAURANT

Ho Chi Minh

Engross yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Ho Chi Minh City, the pulsating heart of Vietnam that effortlessly weaves together a symphony of modern marvels and historical treasures. Embark on an enchanting walking tour through this bustling metropolis, guided by the expert hand of a Luxperia DMC guide.

Our journey commences in the lively Ho Chi

Minh Square, surrounded by government buildings, including the stately City Hall and the People’s Committee Building. A leisurely stroll brings us to the exquisite Ho Chi Minh City Opera House, an architectural gem inspired by Paris’s iconic Opera Garnier and adorned with French colonial flourishes. The Opera House continues to dazzle audiences with mesmerising performances to this day.

Our next stop is the elegant Saigon Central Post Office, a relic of the French colonial era. Here, I select postcards destined for loved ones back home, knowing full well that my tales of adventure

will have been shared long before the cards arrive. The tour then takes us to the awe-inspiring Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon, a breathtaking testament to French colonial artistry.

For a truly immersive experience, hop aboard a cyclo and plunge headfirst into the city’s exhilarating traffic. This thrilling “trust the process” adventure invites you to place your life in the capable hands of a charming cyclo driver.

Our odyssey concludes at the poignant Burning Monk Memorial, an enduring symbol of the sacrifices made by those who fought for freedom

THE GRAND LUXE SUITE

and democracy during Vietnam’s tumultuous past.

Afterwards, a well-earned respite is needed, as we savour the rich flavours of Vietnamese coffee at Cheo Leo, the city’s oldest coffee shop. This quaint establishment, run by three sisters, celebrates the art of traditional coffee brewing using a clay pot and a cloth strainer.

Our final destination is the workshop of the venerable Mr. Trinh Ngoc, a master shoemaker who has honed his craft for over four decades. Born and raised in Bac Lieu Province in the Mekong Delta, Mr Ngoc left his hometown at

the age of 16 to move to Cambodia. There, he learned the art of making leather shoes and quickly became a skilled artisan. Ngoc’s talent even caught the attention of Cambodia’s King Norodom Sihanouk, as well as American and French diplomats.

We ascend the narrow staircase of his three-story home, arriving at his studio located on the top floor. I am instantly captivated by the meticulously organised yet chaotic studio. It is a relatively small and dark space, with dust-speckled beams of light filtering through the windows. Ceiling-high storage racks stacked with wooden shoe lasts

tailored to Mr Ngoc’s clients cover one side, and endless rolls of hides adorn the other.

As Mr. Ngoc regales us with tales of his life and demonstrates intricate stitching techniques on his latest footwear creation, it is evident that shoemaking is more than a profession – it is his life’s passion. The dedication of this consummate artisan is both humbling and inspiring, a reminder that true craftsmanship is still alive and well in our modern world.

CLOCKWISE FROM BELOW: CHEO LEO COFFEE SHOP | MR. NGOC ‘S ATELIER | HO CHI MINH CITY | CYCLOS IN THE CITY | HO CHI MINH SQUARE

The Reverie Saigon

Step into the extravagant world of The Reverie Saigon, a palatial haven nestled in the pulsating heart of Ho Chi Minh City. With 286 sumptuous guest accommodations offering unparalleled views of the city skyline, the Saigon River and beyond, this lavish sanctuary promises an experience of pure indulgence, featuring world-class dining, a sublime spa and a cutting-edge fitness centre.

At The Reverie Saigon, the spotlight shines on exquisite Italian craftsmanship, culminating in a mesmerising blend of opulent furniture, dramatic wall coverings, and intricate detailing. The magnificent lobby displays a custom-made fivemetre long purple ostrich-skin sofa and side chair by Colombo Stile, a colossal gold and malachite clock by Florentine luxury brand Baldi Home Jewels, and enchanting floor to ceiling floral panels crafted from pearlescent tiles by Sicis. Beneath the dazzling, egg-shaped crystal lights from VGnewtrend, the entrance glimmers with abstract paintings from the Visionnaire Design Gallery that grace the initial floors. The interiors evoke an intoxicating fusion of Versailles, Vegas, and Versace through their lustrous lacquer, mirrored, mosaic, and mother-of-pearl finishes. The breathtakingly beautiful lifts feature thinly sliced quartz backlit with a warm, amber glow. It is, simply put, the ultimate lavish stay.

Embark on a culinary journey at The Reverie Saigon’s diverse dining venues, where every meal promises an unforgettable gastronomic experience. Start your day with a European-inspired breakfast at Café Cardinal and don’t miss the divine steamed custard buns. Savour exquisite Cantonese cuisine and the city’s finest dim sum at The Royal Pavilion, or enjoy a casual lunch or dinner with international

flair and signature cocktails at The Long @ Times Square.

The newest addition to The Reverie Saigon’s impressive culinary lineup is Da Vittorio Saigon. It is the first Southeast Asian venture of the celebrated Italian restaurant group Da Vittorio. Step into a realm of elegance and sophistication, where contemporary décor meets warm lighting, and plush seating. The menu is a testament to the richness of Italian cuisine, presenting classic dishes with a contemporary flair. The Egg “à la Egg” and Superior Oscietra Caviar is a must-try, boasting a harmonious fusion of flavours and textures that epitomise luxury.

For an unparalleled dining experience, immerse yourself in the “In The Tradition of Vittorio” Tasting Menu, featuring an array of handcrafted pasta, succulent meats, and delicate desserts. Expertly prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients and authentic Italian flavours, each dish is accompanied by exceptional service and insights into Da Vittorio’s storied history.

After a day of exploration, we retreat to the enchanting Reverie Spa, a serene sanctuary adorned with elegant décor that soothes the senses. Indulge in a range of rejuvenating treatments, including massages, facials, and body scrubs designed to relax and revitalise your spirit. The Five Elements Treatment, inspired by traditional Chinese medicine, is a standout offering that harmonises the body’s energies and promotes overall wellness. With a personalised foot bath, body scrub, and massage, surrender to the blissful embrace of The Reverie Saigon’s lavish oasis.

CLOCKWISE

BAMBOO AIRWAYS’ BOEING 787-9 BUSINESS CLASS OFFERS A COMFORTABLE AND ENJOYABLE FLIGHT EXPERIENCE. THE SPACIOUS AND MODERN CABIN FEATURES LIE-FLAT SEATS, AMPLE LEGROOM, AND IN-FLIGHT ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEMS. THE ATTENTIVE AND FRIENDLY CABIN CREW PROVIDE TOP-NOTCH SERVICE, OFFERING A RANGE OF FOOD AND BEVERAGE OPTIONS THROUGHOUT THE FLIGHT. THE AIRLINE’S COMMITMENT TO SUSTAINABILITY IS ALSO REFLECTED IN THE USE OF ECO-FRIENDLY MATERIALS AND PRACTICES ON BOARD.

FROM RIGHT: THE REVERIE SPA | 7TH FLOOR LOBBY | ROOM WITH A VIEW | DA VITTORIO SAIGON EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR

Words: Aaron

Edgeworth heads out to seek wellness jewel in the Caribbean

Invites to warmer climates are always welcome

climates welcome

Aaron Edgeworth - Motoring Editor

wellness in Puerto Rico, the Caribbean Sea

When that invite lands in one’s inbox mid-December, that offered respite is even more well received. The email was inviting me to enjoy a wellness retreat in the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, a jewel in the Caribbean Sea. Officially an unincorporated territory of the United States, Puerto Rio is borne out of an immensely long and diverse history. Its current social make-up and the basis for much of the social aspects of life, food, dance and art are influenced by the triumvirate of backgrounds that the population is largely made up of, those being the indigenous population, the Latin quotient and the West African influences that the transatlantic slave trade brought with it. What that has created is a vibrant and hugely diverse country. Made up of over 70 individual districts, there is a distinct feel to the different areas of the island and each offers its own benefits, whether that be the busy nightlife and History of the capital, San Juan, or further afield where one can find beautiful white beaches, river courses, jungle and some spectacular golfing amongst many other pastimes.

First off, how to get there? One can see the main detail of that flight in a piece I have written and is available online, but in short, American (relative) newbie, JetBlue was my carrier on their new(ish) transatlantic route. They now fly from London Heathrow and London Gatwick and directly to both JFK in New York and Logan in Boston. Their fleet comprises newer sleeker planes with contemporary interiors and amenity offerings. I was lucky enough to experience their MINT class, a hybrid of first and business that ensconces the passenger in their own cabin area with a lie-flat bed and super-sized TV. Food and drink choices are abundant and the whole service really does stand out, providing another viable service for crossing the pond.

So, Puerto Rico. Due to some unavoidable issues, we didn’t arrive at the first resort until approximately 3.46am, and, being too tired to grumble, I was ferried efficiently to my room via golf cart to spend my first night as a guest of the St.Regis Bahia Beach. On first impression, despite my tired entry, my room was supreme. Contentment. Colonial beach styled with a generous footprint, the room, bathroom and balcony all provided a very stylish place to lay my weary head. In fact, the bathroom sported a bath so deep I did wonder whether to buzz the concierge for a life jacket. One thing that a night-time arrival did afford was that the first morning provided the initial look at the base for the next few days, and I certainly wasn’t

disappointed. The St Regis is a sprawling estate encompassing the standard fayre of a resort of this level; pools aplenty, cabanas, a top-class restaurant, and importantly for the hotel, a championship-level golf course. All the buildings on the estate are also built so that none are higher than the accompanying palm trees littering the resort, giving a very enclosed and almost cosy feel to it, despite its large size. The resort has direct access to a private beach with accompanying amenities, and a lovely restaurant and bar that sits beside the pools.

Given the wellness theme of the stay, we were treated to a yoga lesson from one of the in-house instructors, graciously being given space on the balcony at the main house, where we were provided a supremely tranquil place in which to bend and contort to one’s hearts delight… or attempt to in as far as my aforementioned weary body would allow. I then spent some time catching up on some reading and Champagne-drinking beside the pool, as seemed apt for mid afternoon in the middle of the Caribbean Sea. As I was due to spend the day on a boat heading to a nearby island the next day, I needed to preserve energy and resolve, after all.

What I have always enjoyed on these press jaunts is that one is really treated to a whistle

stop tour of what the destination provides. With Puerto Rico, I felt that a whistlestop tour that takes on even ten percent of what’s on offer would probably still give rise to a month-long vacation, such is the diversity of activity on the island. The island tour provided wonderful vistas back to the main island and afforded us the opportunity to snorkel in some crystal waters just off the coast of Icacos Beach, the island we stopped at some leisurely 45 minutes off the coast. Island days seem to be a very local and social thing to do, as evidenced by the four or five other vessels taking up mooring on this pretty little outcrop.

After returning to shore and back to the St Regis to freshen up, we were taken to a sister property to sample one of their restaurants. The Marriott group has a large presence across not only the island, but also the region. Encompassing almost all of the brands, the group provides a huge choice for travellers, and it was good to see not only the variety of property, but sample some of the various amenities, such as dining, rather than being confined to a single property’s offerings. Iguana’s Cocina Puertorriquena provided some wonderful traditional cuisine in a recently refreshed setting, prettily overlooking the El Yunque national forest.

ST.REGIS BAHIA BEACH

COCINA ABIERTA RESTUARANT

The following day, we ventured further across the island to sample lunch at the newly refurbished winner of the 2019 Certificate of Excellence from TripAdvisor: the Eclipse Restaurant at Villa Montana Beach Resort. This is the picture-perfect idyll that people I’m sure have in mind when thinking about the Caribbean; white sandy beaches, low built bungalows for guests and a restaurant that provides views and atmosphere in spades. A wood fired oven fires out pizza with reckless abandon and rather disconcerting speed. Local shellfish is shucked and prepared almost as it’s being removed from the sea, and a cocktail list to rival a NYC bar made the entire day a breeze.

As Villa Montana is located on such a beautiful beach, we were treated to an afternoon riding across the sand. Closely resembling the second coming of Django, I had been selected to ride the centre’s lead horse, Whiskey. I had been cheered by the name as it seemed presentive, only to realise he’s just the biggest horse they have and the reason we sheepishly gave over our weights at the briefing. It was, however, a lovely thing to get back into the saddle, it being far, far too long since the last time I rode. It all came back, like riding a, well, not bike, obviously. Anyway, for a glorious couple of hours we walked, cantered and trotted across the beach and into the dunes. The real world could not have felt further away.

As we moved our locale from the St Regis and the calm and tranquillity of Bahia Beach, we headed to the bustling, vibrant capital city, San Juan. Now, being a bustling city, there is always the slight fever of a capital, whether hugely metropolitan or not. The thing about Puerto Rico is its convenience to the United States, and judging from the night-time people watching in our hotel in San Juan, La Concha, those Americans have come to party. There is much more of a party vibe to the city, and the resort has a slight ‘Vegas’ feel. The reception bar is permanently busy, and the pool was bathed in loud music as much as it was with sunshine. Hey, who am I to judge? Just because I may be old before my time doesn’t mean that others can’t have fun.

Having moved to the San Juan base, and what seemed to be the centre of all activity for the island, we were treated to some further delights that the city has to offer. First and foremost was a walking food tour. Now, sometimes the success or otherwise of these things can be won or lost with, A, weather, B, fellow tourers and C, the quality of the guide. Given the quality of our ‘C’, A and B were mere afterthoughts. The sheer breadth of information that our guide could call upon almost made the food and drink unnecessary. From historical information to local factoids, we were regaled with all, and it

really made the tour that much more special - it was clear to see that the quality was borne out of not only passion but a distinct pride in their country. Pride in the history and pride in what it represents as a destination for all who choose to visit. It also helps that the cuisine of the island is so interesting. From a historical social make-up of the indigenous population, the Spanish invaders of the fifteenth century and then the West African slaves transported through the Atlantic slave trade, a true cultural melting pot is shown via flavours and spice, as well as in the pride that the country takes in each one of these ethnic groups that have created such a colourful society.

As a great follow on to the morning tour, our evening was spent at a wonderful boutique restaurant in the city centre, Cocina Abierta. There, our hosts - the flamboyant, stylish, and fiercely knowledgeable Michelle Negron and the wonderful chef, Stephanie Haddock - gave us a curated evening of cooking, eating and imbibing. As seemed to be the case the island over, hospitality is key, and I was treated to some

“for a glorious couple of hours we walked, cantered and trotted across the beach and into the dunes. The real world could not have felt further away.”

new flavours in a whiskey and coconut water (who knew?) and their own interpretation of a Latin favourite (and certainly one of mine), the pastel de tres leches, or three milk cake. That I left with not one but two cans of pineapple cream, a thick sweetened syrup used in pina coladas, showed how strong that sense of hospitality was.

What I left Puerto Rico with (other than maybe a couple more pounds and a distinct dread for the impending weather on my return) is that being made up of such disparate histories has created a country that revels in its past and pays homage to each branch, both individually and together. The sense of pride is felt island-wide and plays a part, no doubt, in the sheer number of returning visitors. As I said, that it is made up of so many districts and that it incorporates so much biodiversity alongside a plethora of properties, this means that there is a choice for any traveller. Be that alone or with friends or family, Puerto Rico offers no shortage of varied and colourful choices in the Caribbean.

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Words: Peter J Robinson

A BREWERY AND A JAUNTY CAR, THIS IS THE STUFF OF LEGEND, MAKE MINE A BARREL.

The last time I was close enough to touch tarmac, I was in a 1933 Riley 9hp ‘Brooklands Special’. It’s a visceral experience to be that close to the asphalt, to hear the stones dashing up against that beautifully finished royal blue exterior. To watch the rain evaporate on that flawless 744cc Moto Guzzi engine and feel the crackling heat when you pull over the cover. It’s theatre in the truest sense of the word. Those rakishly thin tyres provide the risk and a power-to-weight ratio of 175 bhp per tonne - a vast reward when mastered. Oh yes,

the Pembleton 3 wheeler is here, and sure, the world has changed yet some truths remain universal. Nothing feels quite as special as open top, ground hugging , goggles-on motoring.

I give you The Pembleton V Sport. Take a bow.

Nestled in the quaint Malvern Hills village of Bayton, a small and dedicated team led by Guy Gregory crafts an automotive experience the likes of which I have never encountered. The Pembleton V-Sport is a two-seat, three-wheeler fueled by a 744cc Moto Guzzi engine, boasting a compression ratio of 9.4:1 and a max torque of 60NM at 4900rpm. It’s accompanied by front

and rear disc brakes and a Magneti Marelli electronic ignition system. This charismatic chariot boasts a top speed of 110 mph and can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 7.2 seconds. A veritable delight to drive, the V-Sport offers a vastly refreshing counterpoint to the monotony of mass-produced motoring. It might be worth mentioning at this point that I have never driven a three-wheeler. Was I ready for the experience? Yes. Do I want one immediately? Dear god, yes I do.

Phil Gregory created the Pembleton after his wife observed that bikes and three-wheelers were exempt from ferry fees. Phil, an experienced

vehicle builder, used Citroën parts to construct the first cyclecar, ultimately selling over 500 kits to enthusiasts who sought a fun, straightforward mode of transportation. Fast forward to today, Phil’s son, Guy, has taken the reins and revamped the design, collaborating with local engineering companies to create an updated model.

The six-member team, including Phil and Guy, has poured countless hours into perfecting the design of this petite, nimble three-wheeler car. Akin to the Triking and Morgan, it’s a unique fusion of automobile and motorcycle design. The V Sport cleverly pairs a brand-new Moto Guzzi V7 III engine with a Citroën 2CV gearbox, providing a car-like gate-style gearchange with front-wheel

V-Sport stands out for its diverse array of unique models. However, the motorcycle influence is evident, particularly with the air-cooled Guzzi engine positioned at eye level, and a weight of just 298 kg — less than a fully loaded BMW R1200GS. This lightweight feel is immediately noticeable once you hit the road. The lack of any ABS, lane assist or traction control make it as visceral a driving experience as any I have undertaken. I wonder if there should be a ‘Pass Plus Vintage’ addition to the UK driving test. It would certainly separate those in need of further education from the pack. Quips aside, the rawness of the experience only adds to the V-Sport’s allure. ‘Head-turner’ doesn’t cover it.

Ensure you have done your homework before stepping out in the V-Sport - everyone and their dog’s going to flood to it like catnip for petrolheads. Be warned, and be sure to know your stuff.

I was caught unaware by a group of American tourists when parked outside Donnington Brewery, camera in hand. Expect to allow people to pose for pictures perched next to its

LEFT: IN SEARCH OF THE MOST REMOTE ROADS THAT EVER WERE PAVED IN THE COTSWOLDS. RIGHT: THE MORNING AFTER THE PISS UP IN A BREWERY AND ALL IS WELL IN THE WOLDS

drive. Having driven a handful of 2CVs and DS in my youth, it took a little time for the grey matter to kick in. But once it does, you’ll fully enjoy the harkening back to a bygone era of motoring. I even dusted off my grandfather’s flying goggles to avoid another assault on the eyeballs, due to a miss-timed drive in the rain.

Historically, cyclecars were seen by the motorcycling press as an affordable alternative to traditional vehicles. The V-Sport’s front-wheel drive configuration allows for ample space and a flat floor, with the 2CV gearchange emerging from the dashboard. Though it may not be ideal for hauling cargo (tried and tested), it offers enough room for passengers and a rear rack if needed.

The modern V-Sport features a steel frame with elegant aluminium bodywork reminiscent of early aircraft design, riveted together for added style points. The engine delivers about 50 horsepower, sufficient to power the French gearbox without overburdening it. Though most low-volume car manufacturers offer customization options, the

“The interior, a harmonious marriage of form and function, is as minimalistic as it is practical and thoughtfully designed”

resplendent chassis. This is par for the course, though anyone unwilling to share in the cult of machine gets blackballed, I am afraid. If you have the passion to purchase one of these fine machines, you must go forth and preach from the Haynes manual. This means children, irrespective of their jam-covered mitts, must be given at least the CliffsNotes on what it is exactly they are sat in. Share the good word - “hit the road, Daddy, leave your common-law wife, spread the religion of the rhythm of life”.

The interior, a harmonious marriage of form and function, is as minimalistic as it is practical and thoughtfully designed, with aluminium surfaces and an eye-catching custom Pembleton steering wheel. The bench seat is comfortable as a daily driver and clad in a durable, easy-to-clean leathereffect vinyl material. For added security, a hidden removable immobiliser key and removable steering wheel feature are included. The boot, accessible through the bench seat, offers ample storage space for necessities, and it might even stretch to a weekend shop, sans passengers. Ear plugs for the non-mechanical are optional. The open cockpit obviously amplifies the engine sound, providing an auditory treat with every gear change and roar of acceleration.

When I finally found an open stretch of road and settled myself into the mechanics, It surpassed any open-top motoring experience I had experienced. Bam, into the stratosphere at mach 10. Okay not quite mach ten - you might be doing 40mph, but given the proximity to the tarmac and the power-to-weight ratio, you might as well be mounted to a solid rocket booster. Did I mention how fond of it the motoring public are? Having driven an array of precious metal, be it modern, pre-war, post-war, vintage and retro, I was a little taken aback by the forgiving nature of the locals around the Cotswolds. To avoid first gear and keep the new girl rolling was generally the name of the game, and as such I did my level best to approach junctions, roundabouts and alike at a rolling speed. Irrespective of right of way or general road going etiquette, I was dumbfounded by the amount of drivers that waved me through. “How old is it? What a beauty,” one chap asked, craning out of the driver’s side window as he waved me through, “I should say about 2000 miles, many thanks”. This was my preferred answer to that particular question. It seemed to sound better out loud than, “ made a year or so ago”.

The V-Sport tackles corners with aplomb, thanks to its skinny tires, limited power, and a woodenrimmed steering wheel that channels the spirit of a classic Spitfire. The suspension remains compliant, contributing to a dynamic cornering experience reminiscent of a motorcycle.

I had hoped that on an overcast Sunday, I might

have been able to leave the V Sport parked outside Dormy House for all to appreciate. The British weather quickly put paid to that idea as the heavens opened, so we sprinted out to quickly cover the V Sport with an unflattering tarp. To say it’s a statement piece sells it somewhat short and at this price range, I think most could afford to keep one in their permanent collection.

Irrespective of temperature, conditions or traffic, it is near impossible not to smile and revel in the sheer joy of the ride. Indeed, it is hard to imagine any other automobile providing more enjoyment or generating as much earnest appreciation.

The Pembleton V Sport is more than just a car; it is a testament to the passion and dedication of the team that crafts it. An unforgettable driving experience, this hand-built threewheeler is perfect for weekend getaways and leisurely drives through the countryside. To truly appreciate the labour of love that is the V Sport, you must visit the workshop where these magnificent machines are brought to life, and meet the artisans who create them. The Pembleton V Sport is not just a sports car; it’s timeless, thrilling, and we want one. Its classic style, simplicity, and handcrafted design make it a standout choice in a world increasingly dominated by high-tech features. And while it’s enjoyable to chat with passengers, the engine’s captivating symphony often steals the show.

Specifications

ENGINE: 750cc fuel-injected V-Twin

HORSE POWER: 175bhp per tonne

MAX TORQUE: 60 Nm at 4900 RPM 0-60: 6-7 seconds

LENGTH/WIDTH/HEIGHT: 3200m, 1600mm, 1020mm

WEIGHT: 298kg

GEARBOX: Transaxle 2 Speed & Reverse

ASPIRATION: Bi-Turbo

CHASSIS: Tubular Steel Space Frame

The countdown to the 2023 Monaco GP has begun. Start your engines...

Words: Peter J Robinson - Managing Editor

GRAND PRIX D’EUROPE AUTOMOBILE

The social calendar, whatever your whim, is well underway. Royal Ascot is under starters orders for June as is Les Voiles d’Antibes. Sundance has graced us briefly with Roadside and Vertical picking up The Pod Generation starring Emilia Clarke, and the stage is set for France vs New Zealand when the Rugby World Cup opens in September at the Stade de France. Whilst thoroughbreds and the Trophee Panerai have all the fun of the fair, the era-defining Monaco GP offers an altogether more gripping level of wanton abandon. Any track that can confidently claim to have been ‘laid’ in 1215 deserves every inch of its blackened tarmac allure.

If you’re enough of an F1 fan to make it to at least one race on the calendar, you should know the lay of the land from a trusted concierge or membership setup already. If you don’t, it might be time to ask - why not? Monaco is relatively hallowed as far as fixtures go and as one of the original members of the Formula 1 World Championship in 1950, it knows how to capitalise on its stature.

My first Monaco GP in 2013 didn’t go entirely to plan, if we’re laying it all out there. It certainly

had the makings for a majestic first time. I had driven from Copenhagen to Monaco via Stockholm, Turku, Helsinki, St. Petersburg, Tallinn, Riga, Warsaw and Vienna. All with a small and idiosyncratic film and photography crew in tow. The Gumball 3000’s 15th Anniversary Route saw a pretty decent who’s who of total randomness joining team Twisted for the journey, of course. Tony Hawk, not surprisingly, turned out to be a thoroughly lovely human being. David Hasselhoff riffed Knight Rider lines car to car with me and by the final leg, our cameraman had left, only to be replaced by the driver of a Kombat T-98. The finale of all this organised mayhem was - what else? - the 2013 Monaco Grand Prix. Nico Rosberg clinched his first-ever victory at Monaco with Mercedes whilst Felipe Massa crashed his Ferrari and Williams Pastor Maldonado collided with Max Chilton’s Marussia. I can tell you first-hand, the victories in Monaco are only equalled by the visceral feeling when you’ve got proximity to a collision in real-time.

In 2013, not only didn’t I see hide nor hair of a race, I barely ate a decent supper let alone walked the track. I pulled up to the Fairmont at gone midnight to find a sea of supercars and their owners, ordered a drink at the bar and made for Beaulieu-sur-Mer for a good night’s sleep. The following morning I unceremoniously bundled the photographer out at Nice airport and made

I had driven from Copenhagen to Monaco via Stockholm, Turku, Helsinki, St. Petersburg, Tallinn, Riga, Warsaw and Vienna. All with a small and idiosyncratic film and photography crew in tow.

To say it was well subscribed would put it mildly. The veritable throngs of people arriving without a reservation and thus having to wait patiently makes the policy very clear, book in advance. Alternatively, ‘have a reason to walk through a door marked private’.

Lunch is a vast array of sun-kissed dishes bursting with Mediterranean flair courtesy of Corporate Executive Chef at Nikki Beach Global, Alessandro Pizza. Try the Burrata Caprese or a go to Sushi boat - rarely does anything from this kitchen

disappoint, I can assure you. The team of chefs remains at your service all day, so if you’re starting to overindulge on the Château Minuty, make the smart choice and double those orders.

Take a lap of the pool when you find the time between courses to see the crowds and ensure you view at least a few laps from the grandstand, please. I did manage to watch some of the race over lunch but everyone’s joie de vivre was turned up to 11 by 4pm. The pool was becoming a genuine option and I was perhaps the highest on spirit alone I have

been in years. The rooftop continued going full tilt into the evening. Even the more conservative members of the production and publishing team were gleefully pouring shots into open mouths, and to be fair to everyone, fully embracing the moment.

It had been a long road to the Monaco shoot, let alone my first false start almost a decade ago. To be able to return in force with such strong company and with ever-so-gracious and indulgent hosts was a highlight of 2023 bar none - it’s arguably nothing less than a right of racing passage.

The Flying Spur

It was in 1952 that designer J.P Blatchley and engineer Ivan Evernden set out to create a marque that would re-establish Bentley as the king of grand tourers. Their creation was a sleek and luxurious high-speed cruiser that quickly gained widespread acclaim, thanks in part to the exquisite bodywork by H.J. Mulliner. Ladies and gentlemen, please be upstanding for The Flying Spur.

Words: Peter J Robinson

Photography: Roger Chan

The S1 coupe and four-door sedan followed, with nearly 3,000 sedans produced.

Then, six months later came the Continental; an uprated variation with a lighter body.

H.J. Mulliner felt that some customers would prefer a coach-built four-door S1 Continental to the models produced by the factory, and thus the “Arthur Talbot Johnstone” was born. It was such a catchy nomenclature that only 217 were built, and only one remains in Bentley’s Heritage Collection to this day.

In 1959, a more powerful all-aluminium V8 engine became available, and the S2 replaced the somewhat ageing S1. It was the same year that Bentley Motors acquired HJ Mulliner, rolling it into an in-house bespoke division. HJ Mulliner offered drophead and coupe versions, in addition to the four-door iteration for those who desired a coach-built body. In total, 2,308 S2s were built.

The S3 version was introduced between 1962 and 1965 and was also available with the rather stately Mulliner body. The Flying Spur’s legacy as a grand touring classic was firmly established, but after ‘65, the trail went decidedly cold.

Given the 4.0-liter V8 Flying Spur’s 5.3-metre proportions, and despite shedding 100kg from the 6.0-liter W12 incarnation, I was still pretty keen to get this particular beast out onto some legitimately open roads. After shooting the V8 around the city with Motoring Editor Aaron Edgeworth and Photographer Roger Chan, I was Isle of Wight bound. With a haul of Oliver Brown evening wear in the 420-litre boot, my first port of call after Yarmouth was the Island’s military road and onto supper. Built in the 1860s as part of the island’s military defences to link forts and barracks, the eleven miles of coastal road is some of the IOW’s finest.

Firstly though, let’s talk about this colour. A Sage Green exterior with Blackline specification shouldn’t work as well as this, but by god it does. Bentley’s dedication to preserving its brand heritage is evident in the Mulliner and extended paint palette, which covers a 30-year cross-section of the brand’s history. Dove Grey dates back to the Derbyera Bentleys of the 1930s. Claret, a duo-tone colour inspired by Royal Claret, has graced Royal Bentleys since the 1940s. In fact, Claret was created specifically for Queen Elizabeth II’s Golden Jubilee Bentley, although it’s unlikely one would find the Blackline trim present on a royal incarnation of the marque. The legendary Flying B mascot, radiator vanes, matrix grilles, side window surrounds, and lower door and rear bumper blades all receive the Blackline

treatment. The front and rear light bezels, door handles, wing vents, and exhaust outlets are also cloaked in darkness, enhancing the car’s rather distinguished visage. The black, 22-inch, ten twin-spoke alloy wheels further contribute to the Blackline specification’s striking appearance, giving the car an aggressive yet refined look.

Ferry dispatched, I headed south towards Freshwater as I tried to gauge how many holidaymakers had exfiled out of the port ahead of me. One thing was for sure: the A3055 offers some biblical straights, sightlines

are good and tight bends are relatively few. However, when the mist rolls in on a tempestuous afternoon, overtaking is not for the faint of heart. That being said, this particular power plant will take almost anyone driving anything in its stride. The V8 engine generates an astonishing 542bhp and 770Nm of torque, a mere 84bhp and 130Nm shy of the W12’s capabilities. Yet, due to its smaller size, the V8 sheds 100kg in weight, resulting in performance metrics that are strikingly similar. The V8 sprints from 0-62mph in a swift 4.1 seconds, a mere 0.2 seconds behind the W12. It’s the same 4.0 litre found in the

Lamborghini Urus and the Audi RS 6 Avant.

Be prepared for that sonorous V8 note when you put the hammer down. It’s more pronounced than the W12’s; an intentional design choice to create a more engaging driving experience, I understand. Yet, at lower speeds during everyday commutes, the V8 maintains the Flying Spur’s signature poise, providing a tranquil driving experience. The V8 exhibits an ingenious ability to deactivate half its cylinders when only a fraction of the engine’s prowess is required. However, don’t anticipate a significant reduction in fuel expenses; the official combined fuel consumption is a modest 22.2mpg. Let’s be honest, though - you don’t care about that, do you?

Despite the lighter engine, the Flying Spur V8 tips the scales at over 2,300kg, maintaining its status as an exceptionally muscular vehicle in the range. Yet the reduced weight on the front axle, improved weight distribution, and retuned suspension and steering systems coalesce to create a marginally more nimble automobile. It may not be fleet-footed, but the front end exhibits a more enthusiastic turn-in, supported by the four-wheel steering,

which imparts a touch of sharpness over the W12.

When pushing the Spur to its acceptable legal limits, you can sense the car’s mass shifting.

The steering is resolute, neither sluggish nor overly responsive, and the grip appears unending. This allows you to bound from one curve to the next with the Spur devouring tarmac as you navigate meanders with an elegance that belies its imposing presence. It’s hardly a sleeper in the truest sense, but I doubt anyone on the road expects it to lift its skirt as rapidly as it does.

The stretch from home base to the IOW is a mere 4-5 hours, not exactly a distance worthy of a Grand Tourer but enough time in the saddle for me. The Spur glides effortlessly throughout, its suspension scoffing at the mere notion of permitting even the slightest disturbance to encroach upon the cabin. This is especially true at motorway speeds, where the Spur is as tranquil as a village hall in the dead of night. Dynamically, the threechamber air suspension ensures a smooth, controlled ride at all speeds, while the 48-volt active anti-roll system keeps the grand saloon steady and level during rapid directional changes.

Inside, the Bentley Flying Spur V8 offers a prime level of opulence. Expect everything to have a knurled machined finish. The

The stretch from home base to the IOW is a mere 4-5 hours, not exactly a distance worthy of a Grand Tourer but enough time in the saddle for me.

“

cabin features a combination of obligatory hand-stitched Cumbrian Green leather, high gloss carbon fibre veneers, finished with Portland contrast stitching and piping, creating a revered setting for both driver and passengers. This includes a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, an optional Naim for Bentley audio system, and a host of driverassist features.

If we’re considering the options list properly and avoiding spending hours on the configurator, take the rotating display, the touring specification and the Naim for Bentley audio system.

I am sure you’re sitting there asking the obligatory question of anyone with purchase intent, why the V8 and not the W12? It’s not merely the reduced power output that

defines the V8; rather, it’s the sense that this incarnation of the Spur is a more content, well-rounded vehicle—lighter, better balanced, and with a touch more personality. The V8 Bentley Flying Spur elicits a true sense of occasion, masterfully melding opulence and comfort with character and cross-country prowess. The Flying Spur V8 embodies Bentley at its finest—a superlative testament to the marque’s capabilities.

Ritz-Carlton Abama

A Refreshingly Grown-Up Family-Friendly

Words: Benjamin Norris - Lifestyle

Despite proudly being a single father to a brilliant eight-year old girl, I’m firmly of the opinion that hotels and resorts should be definitively split into two key categories: child-friendly and adult-only. While my daughter is (obviously) as smart and sophisticated as they come, and nothing remotely like the impulse-driven beasts her peers resemble, there are definitely locations I wouldn’t dream of dragging her along to. Why? For the simple fact that I believe grown-up time is sacrosanct.

There’s an inherent problem to this. All too many ‘family friendly’ resorts seem to tip the scale too far away from their more mature audience members, pandering to the kids in ways that make ‘child friendly’ synonymous with ‘adult hostile’. Sure, have your kidz klub (butchered English is a clear giveaway of the kind of neon-plastic ballpit hellscape I’ve spent my entire parenthood despising) and fast foodinflected/inflicted menus… just keep them as far as possible from my dry martinis and hot stone massages.

The Ritz-Carlton Abama is that rarest of things: a bonafide family-friendly holiday resort on the bonafide family-friendly island of Tenerife,

which strikes a pitch-perfect balance between elegance and enjoyment for visitors of all ages. A great deal of this magic trick arises from

balconies, each showcasing jaw-dropping views of the Atlantic’s calmer quarters, far-flung neighbouring islands and a nightly light show courtesy of Tenerife’s iconic panoramic sunsets.

the scale of the place. It’s vast - an ochre-hued replica Moorish castle that feels somewhere between Arabian fantasy, five-star hotel and an M.C Escher sketch. Corridors loop and whorl their way past seemingly dozens of pools of varying sizes, revealing hidden restaurants, cafes, decorative fountains and a wide array of accommodation options. Staff members of extraordinary politeness and friendliness whizz about on buggies along ornamental Canary Island gardens, past acres of banana groves and snoozing holidaymakers. Multiple levels of the main hotel building boast broad

This was the first trip of its kind I’d opted to bring my daughter on, and any fears I’d had of it being too far on either side of the child-friendly scale dissipated almost instantly. Sure, there was a children’s play area (neatly tucked away behind high hedges and the back wall of the main building) and an assortment of inflatable toys on the sides of the many private pools. However, there’s something in the elegant ambience, relaxed vibe and copious amount of space the resort has created that makes these factors a mere facet of an overall glittering whole. After all, there’s nothing fundamentally wrong with other people’s children - I just don’t want them under my feet, especially not when I’m trying to get some much needed downtime. The Ritz-Carlton Abama seems gloriously conscientious of this very act of plate-spinning, and I can’t be the only parent to find this a genuine breath of fresh air.

The Abama, unsurprisingly given its monumental size, features a wide range of rooms both inside the principal building of the hotel and scattered in small neighbourhoods

“It’s vast - an ochrehued replica Moorish castle that feels somewhere between Arabian fantasy, fivestar hotel and an M.C Escher sketch”

across the site. Ours was prettily-situated a stone’s throw from the dramatic cliff edge that drops into the Atlantic, providing unrivalled sea views on one side, and an aromatic garden and access to a semi-private pool on the other. As rooms go, it was impressive - a cathedralesque vaulted ceiling, full set of luxury fittings and a beautiful bathroom all promised a very comfortable stay indeed. The balcony space delivered the kind of indoor-outdoor living this part of the world does so very well, and it was a pleasant stroll away from all the key amenities we were sure to make full use of during our visit.

We had time for a quick dip in our pool and a chance to meet Paco, our friendly neighbourhood lifeguard-cum-barmen who whips up a pair of signature complimentary cocktails each day for the guests, and then - this being a remote corner of the Kingdom of Spain - it was tapas hour.

Now, I’m as wary as the next reviewer of hotel buffets. Once again, my fears were allayed. The hotel’s main restaurant and breakfast area, which is about as well-appointed as a restaurant can be and offers incredible sea views from its looming clifftop position, dished up a fairly decent tapas selection. There were the obligatory tortillas and croquetas, and fish dishes, seafood options and plenty of freshly-

baked bread to enjoy alongside a more than serviceable wine list.

However, I was keen not to fill up on the broad array of buffet temptations, although my daughter was merrily trying one of pretty much everything on offer (I thank the stars, almost daily, that I didn’t raise a fussy eater). The reason? Ritz-Carlton Abama boasts not one but two Michelin-starred restaurants: the deluxe Basque dining room headed by Martin Berasategui, whose smoked eel and millefeuille with foie gras are as good a reason to visit the hotel - nay, the island - as any, and which perfectly show off what two stars mean in the shadow of a volcano. There’s also Abama Kabuki, which specialises in the kind of contemporary Japanese fare which ticks exactly the boxes the Michelin inspectors have sought to fill over the past decade.

Alongside these sits an impressive-yet-starless offering in the form of El Mirador, which delivers updated versions of Spanish and Tenerife-specific classics. Among such staples is their seemingly bottomless supply of mojo - a Canary Island favourite which is little more than a local take on pesto, but which is ridiculously addictive when dredged through with bread made by a baker who most definitely knows what he’s doing. Delightfully, I was served a hunk of wild sea bass so massive I had

to ask the waiter if he’d got my order right. He had. A good time was spent working my way through its pearlescent charms.

This trio of restaurants set the scene for what RCA is all about, and for what my trip with my offspring was to become. We spent our mornings and afternoons exploring the environs, which include a funicular which carries guests down to the beach below, where the deceptively choppy waves and shallow sands promise hours of enjoyment. Cocktails and infinity-poolside relaxation would follow, before getting better acquainted with the marine life surrounding the hotel’s rocky shores - each line-caught, filleted and dished up with increasingly impressive reductions, beurre blanc emulsions and the wonders that a deft hand with a charcoal grill can produce.

Many will be drawn to Ritz-Carlton Abama’s impressive spa facilities, offering the full gamut of treatments one would expect of a 5-star operation on the island. Equal numbers will doubtlessly enjoy the sprawling 72-par golf course, the yoga classes, shopping areas and ornamental koi ponds. As for me, striking that gossamer-fine balance between a quality hotel that offers genuine relaxation, a plethora of gastronomic adventures and facilities fit for an over-excited eight year old girl was more than enough to impress.

the720S

Words: Aaron Edgeworth - Motoring Editor

Photography: Roger Chan

017. You remember it right?

Pre Covid-19. Pre facemask. Depending where on the calendar; pre-Donald Trump. Well, not pre-Trump per se, he’s what? 96? Just pre his office as POTUS. What a time to be alive. It was also the year of release of the Mclaren 720S. Following from MP4-12C, which became the 12C (massively less amusing a name), which then led to 650S, the 675LT etc. Now, five years in the world of supercars are like dog years, it may as well be 35 given the pace of progress we are privy to nowadays. 35 may well be generous given the speed at which hybrid

technology is permeating the sector. Anyway, it came with fanfare, a certified weapon, though with the idiosyncrasies that one sometimes gets with small batch products. The spider version followed, and it was to collect this, that I made the journey to the hallowed halls of the Mclaren Technology Centre, a 20 ish minute jaunt down the road from my home in bucolic Sunbury on Thames.

Mclaren have always been an interesting marque. I am old enough to remember always angling my teenage strolls to pass the once iconic dealership along London’s Park Lane to glimpse the F1. In an age of F50, XJ220,

EB110SS and all other combination of letters and numbers one could possibly imagine or engineer. It stood out amongst the hordes for myriad reasons. Not least the three-seat configuration. However, in an age of the real, ‘need for speed’, it had all pretenders beat. Hands down. We all know of the Formula 1 team, iconic liveries from Malboro and Vodafone. The emergence of Lewis Hamilton, Jenson and his lackadaisical brilliance, and the simple fact that they once employed the doyen, Ayrton Senna. The have a part in the mystique of motorsport and cars. Incidentally, with the never-ending rise of the F1’s value, they have also made not a few people some

significant returns. In another life, I enquired for a client after a possibly available F1 GTR, I was told any discussion would have to start past 30. Million. One may also know about board room wrangling’s and financial manoeuvrings reminiscent of an HBO mini series.

On a personal level then, I have lived through the lifespan of all aspects of the company, good, bad, ugly or otherwise. Mclaren Automotive was born out of Mclaren Cars in 2010, and at first, launched the MP4-12C. An all new, carbon tub, twin turbo rocket that was praised, but questions around build quality and reliability also hit headlines. For me, the cars that followed had an

identity to the brand, but less so to themselves. I never felty that each model retained enough individuality, and perhaps as I had the Countach on my wall and not the F1 as a kid, I didn’t have the emotional pull to, not exactly care, but to study, as I did voraciously all things automotive when I was younger. Since then, I have followed through various publications, videos, forums, sob stories, Chinese whispers and press release but always at arm’s length. My friend purchased a 12C, we went out, it was fast. I didn’t understand the infotainment and it seemed to beep a hell of a lot, but other than that, nothing massively personal to note. Once I moved into the field, so to speak, I obviously paid more

attention, tried to delve a little deeper. I was part of a round table event concerning the future of luxury motoring, previously featured in these pages. One attendee was Joanna Lewis, Head of Colour and Materials at Mclaren. Her obvious passion of what they do, and the statement that the do what makes things faster, no more, no less, whilst interesting, I took with a pinch of salt. I then had three laps in a 570 GT3 car around Goodwood which BLEW MY SOCKS OFF. Ok, ok, interest rising… Tell me more about that speed. Now, other than a brief, and I mean brief; Battersea-Sunbury and then Sunbury- Woking brief; time with the Mclaren GT. That was it. The accumulated experience of Mclaren. Stolen teenage glances, a chat, three laps that would have been fun in literally anything and about an hour driving in essence, to drop it back. Not exactly a back catalogue of experience, but that’s the joy of the game!

700 words. Shit, ok, get to the actual car. So, I took a taxi to the MTC where I was apprehended at security as one isn’t allowed to just stroll the grounds apparently. I was met at the boulevard entrance after security had whisked me around the world famous lake. I was met be Chloe my contact at the brand, a nicer person one couldn’t wish to meet. As a fist timer at the MTC, I was given a brief ish tour of the facility. It would undoubtedly have been speedier, but my inner child gave way and I near skipped along

the facility marvelling at all I beheld. Returning to the entrance rotunda, I spy my allocation, a pristine, sub 1000 mile 720S Spider. Amethyst Black. Like the darkest of grape varieties. Almost black in the shade, a festival of purple in the sun. Oh yes, yes thank you very much. I enter the car for the first time, and ill be honest. It feels slightly odd. Like I’m sat too high, that I cant quite work out how to set the set and controls. I spend ten minutes listening intently to the provided instructions and information that will serve me well for the next few days. Modes, warnings, aids, launch control. I then spend probably a little more than that ten minutes adjusting myself to what I think is

“Seriously, for a car launched in 2017, nothing else I have driven even seemed to come close to the speed that the Mclaren gains speed above say 50mph.”

optimal operating conditions, familiarise myself with the various knobs, switches and dials, and with that, I drop the roof, obviously, and take one of the most famous roads in automotive, alongside the lake at the Mclaren Technology Centre and out onto the open road.

The first thing that one notices about being on the open road is that road needs to be OPEN to make full use of the 720S so devastatingly quickly does it cover ground. Seriously, for a car launched in 2017, nothing else I have driven even seemed to come close to the speed that the Mclaren gains speed above say 50mph. If the road allows, license-obliterating speeds are accrued at a mind-bending pace. This pace comes from the venerable and formidable in-house four-litre twin-turbo V8, redlining in this guise at 85000rpm; it is a tried and tested drivetrain but one that surprises every time I drive one. It’s the sheer ferocity of the thing and the speeds that it is capable of. In the 720S, the headline figures are something out of Top Trump dreams. 720PS, 770Nm of torque and a 0-62 mph sprint of just 2.8 seconds. You’re winning against pretty much any card you come up against; and if Top Trumps had price brackets, in this, you’d be king. I used the word ferocity earlier, and that’s true, the numbers can’t be anything but given that at some point, the visceral effects simply take over. But that

ferocity comes in such a linear and well-defined power curve that there is a definite refinement to the way the 720S hauls itself across the tarmac. Live, Laugh, Love? Grip, press, smile. There is much in the engine make up that creates such a well-rounded and pacey product. A new intake manifold, lighter connecting rod design and

stiffer and lighter crankshaft are jus some of the upgrades to the V8 that came in the 720S, and the prof, as they say, is definitely in the rather delicious pudding.

Part of the reason, other than mechanical genius, that allows the 720S such performance is its complete carbon fibre shell, the first in a

convertible, the Monocage II-S. I’m not sure it needs such a techy name, but hell, it does sound pretty damn legit. The single-piece Retractable Hard Top, RHT for short, somewhat obviously, adds only 49kg to the weight over that of the coupe, and retracts or deploys fully in 11 seconds meaning one can bask in the Uk sunshine as efficiently as possible for when the sun makes a rare appearance. This shape, this teardrop esque shape is something that is very particular to the design ethos of Mclaren and part of that shape and the focus for the 720S was visibility. The windscreen itself is huge and the a-pillars have been created as thin as possible to maximise visibility. The rear buttresses that slide sexily from the roof line to tailgate are also made from glass, another first. The RHT itself includes an option for an elecrochromatic glass allowing for a cabin that can hunker you down over the winter months, bathe you in sunshine in the spring, and ruffle those locks through summer. Truly a car for any month. The thought processes employed in creating the car may at first not be the most obvious, but when discovered, or investigated, they not only seem incredibly well thought out and curated but suddenly immediately present themselves as though they were the most obvious of design cues. The Mclaren dihedral doors, anyone who knows me knows that I simply LOVE stupid doors, so a hearty back slap there. The

“The move into consistent hybridisation seems to be the move in all automotive circles and even in the rarefied air that Mclaren lives within.”

eyelets of the front lights also provide airflow to the front sill. An active integrated spoiler provides braking assistance as well as the aero performance and again, is something that adds to the pomp of the whole thing.

All constituent parts then come together in the actual drive of the car. The speed I think I may have covered it, right? It’s that refinement that I mentioned earlier that was the surprise for me. That something so inherently powerful could be used so adaptably is testament to the skill of the Mclaren engineers. There is a multitude of electronic aids in the car. Proactive Chassis Control II utilises an algorithm to monitor the car’s dynamics at all times, optimising things like damper pressure and wheel acceleration. Three driving modes in Comfort, Sport and Track allow further adaptation of dynamic and response. Ignition Cut boosts gear shift times, as if anything in the 720S needed to get any quicker. There is Advanced Port Fuel Injection seen in the halo Mclaren P1 to aid the smoothness of all this madness. To top it off, Variable Drift Control allows you to lose your license or get black-flagged at the touch of a button. I jest, kind of…

Ensconcing the inhabitants within the Monocage II-S (it’s growing on me), is a relatively pared back cabin. Materials are of course of the

highest quality. Leather, Alcantara and carbon fibre adorn pretty much every surface and touch-point and the car itself feels abundantly luxurious. The visibility as I have remarked earlier is actually astounding. Providing none of the usual foibles associated with cars of this physically diminutive stature compared to the majority of traffic. The instrument binnacle is rotating so allows a standard and more traditional readout, or at the touch of another button, rotates to provide a race-bred readout focussing on just the good stuff. It’s like internet pornography without banner adverts and popups. So I am told. The infotainment system is unlike many of the others in automotive and without an Apple CarPlay interface, for example, one does need to spend time getting to know its secrets. But once acclimatised, its no more difficult than any other and the quality of the stereo itself is another welcome surprise. The car seems full of them. I always play LCD Soundsystem’s ‘Us v Them’ as a yardstick and the song’s peaks and troughs came through the Bowers and Wilkins speaker set up with all the electro crispiness I could have asked for.

Where now for Mclaren? The move into consistent hybridisation seems to be the move in all automotive circles and even in the rarefied air that Mclaren lives within. So, in comes Artura to joust against the new breed of rivals. It will be

interesting if the newcomers can maintain the sheer all-encompassing nature of these more ‘mechanical’ cars. Whilst they are still overtly modern, with driving aids this and electronic that, they still are essentially all mechanical in output and provide a viscerality that seems to be ebbing away in the market. Mclaren made a masterstroke in the 720S, and as I started with, that was way back when in 2017. A lot has changed since, but with a softened resale market, a 720S, or even more so, the 720S looks like a solid bet as a purchase that can be made for the long haul.

Specifications

ENGINE: 4.0 litre twin turbo V8

0-60: 2.8 seconds

HORSE POWER: 710bhp

MAX TORQUE: 770Nm

LENGTH/WIDTH/HEIGHT: 4544mm, 2161mm, 1194mm

WEIGHT: 1229kg (dry)

GEARBOX: 7 speed + reverse seamless shift gearbox (SSG)

TOP SPEED: 212mph

Springtide Sojourn

As the first hint of Springtime hits, we break out dewy foundations and pops of colour in equally luscious glossy formulas. Think fresh skin with Chantecaille’s Future Skin, and tactile hues from Jones Road and indie brand SANN. Breathe, blend, relax.

Model: Arteeva at Mustard

Photography: Egle Vasi

Creative Director & HMUA: Naomi Lake

Base: Chantecaille Future Skin, Ivory; Le Camouflage Stylo, 3; Kevyn Aucoin Loose Powder. Cheek: Jones Road Lip and Cheek Stick, Chocolate Mocha. Eye: Decorte Eye Gem, Weeping Wisteria; Eyeko Mascara, Coco Edit. Lip: SANN Nourish + Tint Lip Serum, Wild.

Base: Chantecaille Future Skin, Ivory; Le Camouflage Stylo, 3; Kevyn Aucoin Loose Powder. Cheek: Jones Road Lip and Cheek Stick, Bright Coral; Jane Iredale Glow Time Highlighter Stick, Solstice. Eye: Jones Road Lip and Cheek Stick, Bright Coral; Eyeko Eyeliner and Mascara, Coco Edit. Lip: SANN Nourish + Tint Lip Serum, Morning Dew.

Base: Chantecaille Future Skin, Ivory; Le Camouflage Stylo, 3; Kevyn Aucoin Loose Powder. Cheek: Jones Road Lip and Cheek Stick, Royal Plum.

Eye: Decorte Eye Gem, Leather Pink; Eyeko Mascara, Coco Edit. Lip: Jones Road Lip and Cheek Stick, Royal Plum.

Base: Chantecaille Future Skin, Ivory; Le Camouflage Stylo, 3; Kevyn Aucoin Loose Powder. Cheek: Jones Road Lip and Cheek Stick, Tawny Nude; Ciaté London Bronzer, South Beach. Eye: Ciaté London Bronzer, South Beach; Jane Iredale Glow Time Highlighter Stick, Cosmos; Eyeko Mascara, Coco Edit. Lip: SANN Nourish + Tint Lip Serum, Sunset.

Base: Chantecaille Future Skin, Ivory; Le Camouflage Stylo, 3; Kevyn Aucoin Loose Powder. Cheek: Jane Iredale Glow Time Blush Stick, Enchanted.

Eye: Jane Iredale Glow Time Highlighter Stick, Cosmos; Eyeko Mascara, Coco Edit. Lip: Jones Road Lip and Cheek Stick, Bright Coral.

Medical Tourism

Turkeys true symptoms for health travel

Words: Naomi Lake - Beauty Editor

We are in an age where social media is given and bombarded by visual media at every turn. Call me old-fashioned at the age of Thirty-Two, but please just hand me my paperback and make TikTok stop. How interesting, that this also comes at a time when treatments, tweakments and surgical adjustments are affordable or, at the very least, more broadly available.

hat used to be the luxury of the truly elite, celebrities or Forbes listers is now within attainable reach, in an era where in-depth information and retina-detailed imagery are held too in our hands. We can search for inspiration for our desired appearance and can easily examine on whom to place that responsibility, thanks to organisations such as Save Face. Growing old is a luxury, but ageing doesn’t have to be a prerequisite.

It was a wonderful opener to an article about aesthetics, my musings as written on the flight to Istanbul to visit Acıbadem, arguably Turkey’s biggest and most respected private healthcare group, to find out more about medical tourism within the country. I pondered how it was a waste not to use it, considering that this, spoiler alert, isn’t an article on aesthetics. Why you ask, with widespread coverage on ‘Turkey teeth’, with Istanbul as ‘the hair transplant capital’ or home of ‘the weekend nose job’, I myself was even at one point having pre-consultation for an aesthetic surgery as part of the trip. But this isn’t an editorial on cosmetic surgery. It’s an article about our preconceptions of medical tourism.

On visiting the city of Istanbul knowing I was

Wthere to find out more about the healthcare group, it was impossible not to notice its silent but dependable presence - not only for each building’s impressive architecture but for its sheer number of sites across the city. Our first point of call on the ground was Ataşehir Hospital, an Academic Surgical Outpatient Clinic in the South of Istanbul. Now, this isn’t to say I haven’t been to a private healthcare centre or hospital before, but I haven’t experienced one in a setting quite like this; all bright, airy and dare I say it, alluringly designed interiors are more akin to a modern office or hotel lounge.

Also home to their head office, we met with Tahsin Güney, CEO of Acıbadem Group at Ataşehir who introduced us to the hospital group. Travelling in late February after the devastating TurkishSyrian earthquakes, it would be impossible not to have spoken about the grave impact that had been felt within the country and alongside their neighbouring country and beyond. Tahsin explained that between their three most local hospitals in the south of the country, they had an extra 200 staff working in the region to support existing staff in their facilities and those of the state, and had dedicated five of their ambulances to support healthcare in the region, opening their private hospitals to accept all emergent cases.

Tahsin, who joined Acıbadem in 2009 after

reforming the governmental system, went on to explain that in Turkey, their general health insurance system covers the entire population, with the Government responsible for the premiums for those in need of assistance. Across Turkey as a whole, around 37% of their 1600 hospitals are private, whilst offering non-private healthcare on contract to social security. To put this into perspective, it’s a similar number of around 40% private in the UK, with around 1,257 NHS and 515 private hospitals.

The healthcare group has grown significantly in the last 30 years. Since its first hospital opening in 1991, Acıbadem has since grown to become Turkey’s flagship healthcare provider, covering 50% of the population with its 18 Turkish hospitals, within this, working predominantly with privately insured or cash payers. With 24 hospitals globally and 14 outpatient clinics across 5 countries (Turkey, Macedonia, Serbia, Bulgaria and the Netherlands) it balances international patient management with its 51 Health Points, launching its first UK-based contact centre in 2023 in London, on Great Portland Street.

The group itself is a fascinating business model, having grown to offer full service across the board; from the project management and construction of hospitals and other related buildings to its own inhouse company for patient transfers, plus catering,

laundry, training universities and technology. Its configuration to exclude outsourcing ensures costs are kept to a minimum overall, feeding into its offering of affordable, quality care for patients.

With $120 million in revenue per annum solely from medical tourism within their Turkish operation, this is a lot of people travelling for treatments. Acıbadem takes a big slice of the pie too, as Interbank Card Center and Departing Visitors Survey data suggests that spending overall on health was $192.6 million in Turkey in 2022. Murat Pekmezoğlu, MD, Director of International Project Development & Operations explained why a patient might find themselves choosing treatment overseas.

“For all patients with international health insurance they can choose to come to us, maybe from AXA and BUPA, without having to pay anything. We receive patients from all over the world, they come to us for our excellence, plus the localisation of Turkey is close to Africa and Central Asia, for example, making travel very easy. Across other private healthcare centres, there might be a wait, or the costs are very high so a patient might choose to come to us to avoid that. At around £12,000 for a hip replacement privately in the UK, it’s around 40% cheaper here.”

I was fascinated to hear more from Tahsin, as he explained how on average 26% of their

international visitors are from the UK and EU, and what they might be looking for. He shared, “40% of all international patients are oncologyrelated, the patient will also come to us for complicated surgeries, cardiovascular or general surgeries, with 1 to 2% being cosmetic surgeries”.

It was here that the challenge to my initial preconceptions began. A confirmed 98% of their international patients visit Turkey for medical, non-aesthetic and non-elective surgeries, yet media outlets everywhere scream of cosmetics procedures being performed left and right on medical tourists to the country? Plainly, that is

indeed saying that only up to 2% of surgeries are voluntary and the patient has chosen for a cosmetic purpose, although Tahsin did clarify that aesthetic procedures were not included in this figure, covering surgical cases only. It was wildly different from my expectations.

The team went on to explain that across contacts with 30 governments worldwide, they also receive international referrals for cases too intricate or rare for the country to handle. These include complex oncology cases requiring robotic surgical techniques, or rare plastic and neurological cases like the separation of conjoined twins from Cameroon. A patient’s local doctors can also accompany their patient for a unique learning opportunity when they are unable to operate in their home country. The Turkish Statistical Institute reports that around 763,300 tourists visited Turkey for health reasons in 2021, regardless of referrals. Comparatively, Tahsin proudly shares that in the same year, only 6 patients were referred from Turkey overseas for treatment.

But of those patients, I was keen to find out how they might confidently access treatment in Turkey. Aslı Öztürk, head of International Project Development & Operations in London, shares with us that the company operates on three key principal pillars: patient safety, patient

“40% of all international patients are oncology-related, the patient will also come to us for complicated surgeries, cardiovascular or general surgeries, with 1 to 2% being cosmetic”

satisfaction and employee satisfaction. In 2012 Acıbadem signed into a joint partnership with IHH Healthcare, making it part of the world’s secondlargest healthcare conglomerate, a year later, they also achieved FIFA accreditation. Overall, five of their hospitals are accredited by Joint Commission International, a recognized global leader in healthcare that works to help organisations deliver a high standard of care and patient safety.

It’s clear right from the start of our visit that patient care starts well before reaching the medical centres, as even within the airports, an Acıbadem Welcome Lounge greets international patients on landing, arranging transport to their accommodation and helping with any queries. Any international patient would know the Help Point service well by this point, as any one of their local outposts would have been key in helping to arrange treatments and travel. Each of Acıbadem’s 51 Health Point Information Offices employs experienced nurses as consultants and as the first stage of contact for prospective patients, offering free consultations and second opinions without obligation. These offices across 48 cities and 26 countries are solely there to make it possible for patients to access what Aslı boasts to be “world-leading specialists and state-ofthe-art medical technology”.

While visiting, we had the opportunity to speak to Professor Sahin Senhay, a cardiovascular surgeon at Acıbadem Healthcare Group, who explained how their robotic surgical techniques attracted patients to Turkey, and how they differ in the field from treatment options available in the UK.

“The procedures performed under robotic cardiac surgery are the same as the ones performed under open heart surgery, only the access points and methods differ. We access the area through a small underarm incision of 3 to 4 cm.” He explained how the problems of a dysfunctional valve or the need for bypass procedures are commonplace, yet their technique in treatment can offer a very different recovery, sharing that robotic techniques had been tested in the UK but after a bad outcome on the first surgery, it was not used again. “In standard heart surgeries, the heart is stopped and opened before the required procedure is performed. At Acıbadem, we do not stop the heart and allow it to continue working. We perform the required procedure, which can be valve repair, replacement or prosthetic implantation, and then close up the heart again.”

The idea that a completely different kind of surgery is available that is safer and has minimal recovery time would surely be a big pull for patients of this kind. In fact, the recovery time is so much shorter with this kind of surgery, that a patient could be

back to work in two to three weeks depending on their job, as when the chest is not opened, the rib cage doesn’t need to heal post-surgery. In comparison, the healing time for open surgery might be around two to three months. Sahin went on to explain that for multiple reasons, it’s a beneficial method, “robotic heart surgery eliminates the need for a big operation because we gain access through a very small spot and we stay away from any previously treated areas so the risk of causing further damage is reduced. Not stopping the heart during surgery guarantees no disruptions in cardiac function and the operation also takes much less time than a standard one with minimised risk of infections, bleeding or blood transfusions.”

Indeed, it’s not just their Cardiovascular department that is performing pioneering surgery unavailable in the UK. In 2021, teenager Olivia Buckley and her family made the journey from Crewe for her to have a 14-hour operation to treat her severe scoliosis by Prof. Ahmet Alanay, Spinal Surgeon, head of the Comprehensive Spine Clinic at Maslak Hospital and vice president of Eurospine, a non-profit developing knowledge and treatment of spiral issues in Europe. With their use of the Vertebral Body Tethering (VBT) technique the curve of Olivia’s spine, as seen in scoliosis patients, was corrected without impeding her spine’s flexibility or growth.

Ahmet went on to explain how shorter waiting times and overall access to this treatment are crucial in growing patients. Unlike traditional spinal fusion, VBT is a minimally invasive technique allowing more movement and limits the need for future surgeries. Overall, it’s performed mainly in children and adolescents but also attracts patients who want to retain as much flexibility as possible post-treatment for sports or dance. The team at Maslak has applied this surgical method successfully since 2014 and is now one of the foremost spinal centres in the world. For reference, the US Federal Drug Administration only approved the compassionate use of VBT for a small number of patients in 2019.

Overall, it’s an interesting area of healthcare at Acıbadem when you look at Fertility. Here, the same key drawers of shorter waiting times and overall more affordable treatment are balanced by accessibility. A patient must be married and must be in a heterosexual relationship, which dives into a whole other conversation relating to political and societal aspects that forgive me, we won’t cover here. But Dr Cem Demirel, chief of the IVF department at Ataşehir hospital explained why patients travel to the healthcare group for treatment of this kind.

“The services of IVF and infertility treatments in Turkey have been booming for the last decade. Here you have very sophisticated, technologically well-equipped centres working with good success rates. Maybe 25 to 30% of our patients come from abroad, mainly from Europe.”

Cem spoke further about success rates, which he explains are harder to quantify in this field. “Of course, patients come in for new treatments and a positive pregnancy test. When we talk about the success rate, it doesn’t mean that the patient has a positive test, which is around 45 to 50%.” He goes on to delicately explain the potential loss in his field, “But this is not the success rate, because

“Here you have very sophisticated, technologically well-equipped centres working with good success rates. Maybe 25 to 30% of our patients come from abroad, mainly from Europe.”

success is to take home a healthy child, and not all patients deliver their child. The take-home baby rate is around 38 to 39%.”

When it comes to cost, Cem explains to us that case by case, you’re looking at £2,300 to £2,500 for procedures, with the medication required for each cycle at £500 to 600 pounds. So, all in, it’s not more than £3,000 for treatment, and with medication available on prescription remotely, travel costs can be limited. In comparison, the monetary cost of IVF in the UK ranges from £4,000 to 6,000 per cycle when using your own eggs, including procedures but still excluding medications.

On our first arrival at Ataşehir hospital for a tour of the facilities and meetings with department heads, we were warmly welcomed by Başak Aksoy from the on-site Health Point Patient Relations team, whose day is dedicated to ensuring the smooth running of a patient’s visit to the hospital. In true Acıbadem style, this streamlined service ensures foreign visitors a private car for transfers and a discrete lounge within each hospital. Their onward journey through appointments is then guided by a personal assistant to navigate the hospital and translate meetings into 20 different languages as required.

To see from the side of the patient the journey

through the centre for treatment, later that week I was booked in for a full medical workup, and in a thoughtful touch, Başak was also my company for the day. Sparing a whole day to healthcare, I start with their ‘Check Up Doctor’ who goes over an initial healthcare consultation, makes suggestions for additional departments and sends me on to the nurse for their standard assessment. I receive an ECG to check my heart’s rhythm and electrical activity, they take blood pressure, height and weight, along with a blood test which is available the same day. I am also passed vials for samples, which I can return whenever, ahem, completed during the day. From there, I am sent to their standard ultrasound technician to check the liver, spleen, bladder, gall bladder and stomach.

I dip in and out of the checkup area throughout the day as guided by Başak, it’s my home space during all my trips to different departments. Some are standard, and others such as Ophthalmology, Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) and Dermatology are voluntary choices depending on the conversation during my initial consultation. Başak shares that when it comes to supplementary departments, these three are the most popular for a medical, especially when a client has no specific symptoms. Other recommended departments include gynaecology for women, urology for men, and cardiology for anyone over 45.

In a quick run down, without splaying all my medical history for all readers to see, I can share that the Radiology appointment was fascinating, which focuses on checking the thyroid, and the breasts for women. After an initial moment of fear at a suddenly very silent technician and lots of quick movements on the screen (which I later discovered were measurements) I was told I have cysts in both, and from now on will be referred back to the NHS for regular checkups to monitor a cancer risk for something that would never usually be checked for routinely without symptoms.

As someone who lives with Endometriosis, a hormonally-led disease in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterus, a gynaecology appointment isn’t something I’m unacquainted with. And yet, a full wall screen displaying the results of an internal ultrasound and being shown my ovary the day before ovulation isn’t. The timing is perfect, it was beyond fascinating to see an egg just about to leave my ovary, and further cemented my knowledge that the alternate-side pain I feel mid-month is ovulation pain. Overall; it was life-affirmingly reassuring to be told after almost two decades of tests, surgeries and warnings to start a family as soon as possible (often whilst single, fun, and sensitive) that I do still have some fertility overall.

If I were to need additional tests or required

treatment, the excision of a mole, for example, I was offered it there and then, with no waiting around and for any follow-up when at home, patients and doctors access medical records online. In the case of surgery, recuperation at home is encouraged as soon as a patient is well enough to travel, monitored on a case-by-case basis. For smaller surgeries such as rhinoplasty, this would hinge on when a patient can travel after anaesthetic, but while in Turkey, accommodation is organised by the Health Point team with luxury apartments and hotels in partnership with Acıbadem.

Başak took a moment to show me some of the patient suites on-site suites for in-patients. A kingsize patient bedroom, an adjoining family room with a private bathroom, and a kitchenette and lounge space, it was frankly, more spacious than the hotel room I was staying in, and beautifully presented.

Of course, with each visit to a department, I had questions and concerns about various areas of my health. It’s a strong belief that anyone living in the age of Doctor Google will have at least one niggling worriment they would like to get checked out. I can honestly say that having face-to-face appointments with so many

departments throughout the day and direct access to a consultant at each, albeit little tiring in one go, was an incredible experience. Not to slight the NHS in the UK, I gratefully pay my taxes and whole-heartedly support it, but during our time together I share a frank conversation with Başak of my experiences of gatekeeping by GPs, especially to Gynecology, and take a mental tally of the months I might have waited for referrals to access the consultants I have seen here in one day.

Be this a point of self-preservation or employer requirement, I can’t see why one wouldn’t want such a service. At £445.00 for a 60-minute ‘female health’ workup from a well-known UK provider, which for women over 25 includes a ‘focus on breast and gynaecological health and up to 30 minutes with a doctor’, you can see why everything included in an Acıbadem medical health check, regardless of flights and accommodation, is an absolute steal at £450.

Looking back over the trip, I think again about my initial wildly off-piste misconceptions. In our first conversation with CEO Tahsin, we asked about simple supply versus demand regarding the higher number of medical surgeries over aesthetic treatments. “It is just demand. We provide everything including aesthetics and

hair transplants and despite a lower number of patients overall, our standards for aesthetics and hair transplants are the best. But have more of a demand for complicated treatments.”

But what does Acıbadem aim for in terms of growth, going forward? Tahsin explained, “We are trying to expand our facilities in Europe, especially in mature markets. We have tested ourselves and understand that we can contribute to the societies in those countries. Our Health Point Information Office in London is a first step in understanding the market and local regulations and introducing ourselves to the people, patients, physicians, and local authorities. We are looking to invest in the UK.” Overall, it’s not just Acıbadem we are looking at here, but the country from which it was incepted, as Tashin ended our time with a profound statement, “in 10 years, Turkey’s target is $1 Billion in revenue from medical tourism, not only the private hospitals but also public hospitals targeting travel tourism”.

So, whilst my flight back amongst my fellow passengers was peppered with gentlemen with delicately bandaged scalps and people with plastered noses, the true story of health-driven tourism for this country sits a little quieter, but should still be taken at face value. TR

a reMarkable revolution

Words: Peter J Robinson - Managing Editor

The ReMarkable 2 tablet has been turning heads since its release, thanks to its paper-like writing experience. With a sleek design and cutting-edge features, it’s not hard to see why this device has gained such a loyal following. Indeed, it has quickly become a ‘can’t live without’ of my day-to-day life.

If, like me, your desk is strewn with paper, post-its and wildly incomprehensible touch-typed notes, you certainly need some order in your life. I appreciate a good HB pencil perhaps more than most. Two of the matriarchs in my family worked at one time or another for Japanese stationery specialist Pentel. There were duffel bags of sample pens and every conceivable mug, tankard, jar or drawer in any dresser contained an array of stationery. From the 0.3mm Graph 500 to the Ergonomix 0.5mm, I would arrive at school and college with stationary for all on the first day of each new term.

Whilst I still appreciate fine writing instruments, the endless scribbling during meetings - phone pressed to ear - always ends in the ordering and reordering of countless scraps of A4. At one point, I would scan these documents individually to glean the notes they contained before thinking better of it. After trying a magnetic whiteboard desk overlay I was mildly converted, but I knew that

I needed a more permanent solution. I’m not sure when Facebook or Google started listening to my occasional rants and attuned its advertising algorithm accordingly, but it didn’t take the powers that be very long to recommend the reMarkable 2.

Although the reMarkable has been on the

market for three years, it remains steadfastly a top contender in the E Ink tablet space, thanks to consistent software updates and improvements. The founder and inventor of the reMarkable 2 is Magnus Wanberg, a Norwegian entrepreneur and technology enthusiast. His vision was to create a device that could replicate the real feel of writing on paper.

The product’s unique selling point is its emphasis on the writing experience. The reMarkable 2 is designed to elicit the feeling of sketching on paper with a pen or pencil, rather than a typical digital device, which offers very little when it comes to responsive feeling. The reMarkable 2’s E Ink display and its proprietary pressure-sensitive stylus (Marker) combine to deliver an authentic pen-on-paper feel. With 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt recognition, the tablet can precisely capture your strokes and the nuances of your handwriting, making it feel as close to writing on paper as the real thing.

“With 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt recognition, the tablet can precisely capture your strokes and the nuances of your handwriting”

REMARKABLE 2

Size and weight (mm)

246 x 188 x 4.7 mm mm

403.5 g (0.89 lb)

Vital Stats

• 1.2 GHz dual core ARM processor

• 1 GB LPDDR3 SDRAM

• 8 GB internal storage

• MIDI and Audio Recorder (WAV)

• Pitch Bend Wheel

CANVAS Display

• 10.3” monochrome digital paper display

• 1872 x 1404 resolution (226 DPI)

• Multi-point capacitive touch

• Custom composite with tempered resin, featuring a paper fibre structure imprinted on chemically strengthened thin sheet glass

• reMarkable 2 is the most responsive digital paper tablets the industry has ever seen, with a record-breaking 21 ms of latency

Marker

• 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity

• New eraser function on the top end of Marker Plus

Connectivity

• Wi-Fi 2.4GHz and 5GHz

• USB-C

Battery

• 3000 mAhc

• Two weeks of battery life

• 3 months of standby time

Operating system

• Codex — A purposely designed Linux-based operating system for low-latency digital paper displaysThe white keys are finished to recreate the natural grain of ivory, while the black keys offer a new matte finish that looks and feels like ebony.

FOR MORE DETAILS VISIT: REMARKABLE.COM

The device boasts a highly responsive E Ink display, perfect for note-taking, sketching, or drawing. The fundamentals are more than adequately covered, too - one of the product’s standout features is its impressive battery life. With up to two weeks of use on a single charge, the reMarkable 2 is perfect for on-the-go productivity without the need for constant charging. It boasts a 10.3-inch e-paper display, with a resolution of 1872 x 1404 pixels and a high contrast ratio of 226 DPI. This makes for a strong reading experience with crisp, clear text and graphics. The device also features a powerful 1.2 GHz ARM processor and 1 GB of RAM, which ensures speedy performance even with large files.

The ReMarkable 2 is highly customizable, with built-in templates and the ability to import custom ones. From the highly popular Cornell template for note-taking to storyboards, planners, Music tablature, grids, lines, graphs and calligraphy. Not to mention the ability to import whatever wildly niche lined setup you might need.

Its intuitive interface ensures a straightforward user experience, making it particularly appealing for people who want to start using the device immediately like me. The tablet

is also durable, with a robust body that can withstand accidental drops and bumps. I refer to it affectionately as an adult Etch-A-Sketch. Though it cannot be shaken to erase the copy and to be frank, that’s not an add on I am looking for.

The reMarkable 2 has a slim, lightweight design, measuring 7.36 by 9.69 by 0.19 inches and weighing just 14.1 ounces. Its 10.3-inch, 1,872-by-1,404 E Ink Carta display provides a really smooth writing experience. The tablet comes with a matte grey, cylindrical stylus that attaches magnetically to the device and thankfully doesn’t require charging. The reMarkable 2 connects to the internet via Wi-Fi and offers 6.41GB of usable onboard storage and can be secured with a passcode.

Whilst we’re on the subject of specs, I think it’s pertinent to make it clear what the reMarkable isn’t. It’s designed to enable focus, so no, it doesn’t have a browser, access to social media, the ability to play video, browse or message or call anyone. Just like paper. That’s a key distinction, as my first concern was the device’s lack of backlight. Again, like paper, there is no backlight. If you’re working under the cover of darkness then you really ought to be sleeping or taking some downtime.

Yes, I had considered an iPad Pro. However, with a stack of the bloody things growing in my desk drawer, many of which are obsolete, it now feels like a wholeheartedly wasteful bandwagon to jump aboard once again. Not to mention, I am now entirely smitten by my reMarkable 2. Compared to other digital tablets on the market, the reMarkable 2 is a clear winner in terms of writing experience. While other devices focus on multimedia and entertainment, this product prioritises the writing experience, making it a favourite among writers, artists and students.

The reMarkable 2’s basic UI is a simple catalogue of files and folders, working with desktop and mobile apps to transfer files wirelessly or via email and organise them into folders. Now you can even type notes with the addition of the Type Folio, a fold-out keyboard embedded into the reMarkable case.

Overall, the reMarkable 2 digital paper tablet is a phenomenal device that offers a unique and deeply satisfying writing or drawing experience. With its sleek design, impressive technical specifications, and emphasis on productivity, this device is a must-have for anyone who values the art of writing.

EARINGS BY TIFFANY & CO; BLOUSE AND SKIRT BY COMME DES STARS

Svenja Ava

Photography: Svenja Ava

With a unique and highly distinctive visual vocabulary, photographer Svenja Ava has ridden a stratospheric trajectory over the past few years. Since buying her first semi-professional camera at the age of thirteen, Svenja longed to be in the melee of the bold and the beautiful. She rose through the ranks, moving from product to beauty photography, from beauty to fashion, and from fashion to the heady realm of shooting celebrities, icons and figures making waves on the world stage.

Applying a thoroughly humanistic approach to an often highly mechanical industry, Svenja states “I firmly believe

Words: Benjamin Norris - Lifestyle Editor

that a positive and empathetic level of communication pushes a team to the most amazing kick-ass results. With the right mindset – everything is possible”.

Now highly sought-after at fashion weeks, by global brands and individuals desiring to be captured in her lens, Svenja Ava’s ascendency shows no signs of slowing. Vibrant, vivid and gleefully angular, her photography harkens back to the glory days of high fashion while driving forward with a swagger that’s entirely her own.

EARINGS BY AMYO; JACKET BY DAN CASSAB; GLOVES BY MINXY

HAT BY SENSI STUDIO; SCARF BY HERMÉS; NECKLACE BY CHANEL; JACKET AND TROUSERS

BY COMME DES STARS; PONCHO BY RALPH LAUREN; GLOVES BY MENAGE07

SAVANNAH JAMES ATTENDING MILAN FASHION WEEK; LACE BODY SUIT, PUFFER DRESS AND COMBAT BOOTS BY D&G

I firmly believe that a positive and empathetic level of communication pushes a team to the most amazing kick-ass results. With the right mindset – everything is possible.

CLOCKWISE RIGHT: ANNA WINTOUR ATTENDS THE PACO RABANNE WOMENSWEAR FALL WINTER SHOW | SVENJA AVA ON LOCATION | A PRADA BAG

TIWA SAVAGE ATTENDING THE CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN’S SHOW IN A LEATHER GOWN BY THE UNCOMMONIST

LEATHER POUCH BY PRADA; CHARM NECKLACE BY MM6 MAISON MARGIELA

19.11. 2022 – 5. 2. 2023

Jean-Frédéric Schnyder

The Otolith Group

Patricia L. Boyd

17.2. – 16. 4. 2023

Christine Sun Kim

Kresiah Mukwazhi

Jordan Strafer

28.4. – 18. 6. 2023

Vivian Suter

Margaret Salmon

Karrabing Film

Collective

Permanent presentation

30.6. – 3. 9. 2023

Lazar Lyutakov

Delaine Le Bas

Chen Chieh-Jen

15.9. – 12. 11. 2023

SoiL Thornton

Mai Ling

Mykola Ridnyi

1.12. 2023 – 28. 1. 2024

Tishan Hsu

Charlotte Prodger

Agency of Singular Investigations

Gustav Klimt, Beethoven Frieze

secession

Friedrichstraße 12, 1010 Vienna www.secession.at

Cut from a different cloth

Uncompromising style. Our limited-edition fabrics are made with rare, sustainably sourced natural fibres. Available at selected tailors and makers worldwide.

A Journey Through Time and Terroir in

Words: Peter J Robinson - Managing Editor

Tucked away in the enchanting Tuscan countryside, the Biondi Santi Winery is a testament to the passion and perseverance of a storied family devoted to the art of winemaking. This legendary estate has etched its name in history, creating some of the most sought-after vintages in the world. Having interviewed CEO Giampiero Bertolini pre-lockdown, it seemed appropriate that we take him up on his offer to visit the estate in earnest.

Join me as we delve into the fascinating history of Biondi Santi and explore the remarkable wines that have captured the hearts of connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike, whilst leaving an indelible mark on the world of viticulture.

I. THE BIRTH OF A LEGACY: A FAMILY’S PASSION FOR WINEMAKING

The story of the Biondi Santi Winery is, in essence, a tale of one family’s enduring love affair with winemaking. It all began in the

early 19th century with Clemente Santi, a pharmacist who developed a keen interest in viticulture. His passion for experimentation and innovation led him to experiment with various grape varieties and winemaking techniques. Clemente’s efforts were rewarded when, in 1865, he received a silver medal at the Universal Exposition in Paris for a unique dessert wine. The Biondi Santi legacy would soon become synonymous with Brunello di Montalcino, thanks to Clemente’s grandson, Ferruccio Biondi Santi.

Ferruccio’s groundbreaking approach to

winemaking, which included extended aging in oak barrels and a rigorous selection process for grapes, set the stage for the family’s enduring success. His work laid the foundation for the creation of the first-ever Brunello di Montalcino, a wine that would go on to achieve international acclaim and transform the Biondi Santi name into a symbol of regional excellence.

II. A TIME OF CONFLICT: THE HIDDEN CELLARS OF WORLD WAR II

During World War II as German forces occupied Italy, the Biondi Santi Winery

faced a grave threat. The estate’s invaluable wine collection, a testament to generations of winemaking expertise, risked falling into enemy hands. However, the Biondi Santi family was determined to safeguard their legacy. Tancredi Biondi Santi, Ferruccio’s son, devised a plan to hide the family’s precious wine collection from the marauding soldiers. A secret cellar was constructed by digging a tunnel underneath the winery. The entrance, concealed by a massive oak barrel, ensured that the hidden cellar would remain undetected by the occupying forces.

As the war raged on, the Biondi Santi family

persevered, secretly tending to their vineyards and safeguarding their treasured wines. The resilience and resourcefulness displayed during this tumultuous period would come to define the spirit of the Biondi Santi Winery, leaving a lasting impact on the generations that followed.

III. ICONIC VINTAGES: THE WINES THAT SHAPED A LEGACY

The Biondi Santi Winery has produced some of the most sought-after and iconic vintages in the history of Brunello di Montalcino. These extraordinary wines are a testament

THE BEAUTIFUL IVY SURROUNDING VILLA GREPPO IN LATE OCTOBER

THE AGE OLD VINES AT TENUTA GREPPO

to the family’s unwavering commitment to quality and innovation. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most memorable Biondi Santi vintages:

1945 Riserva: The 1945 Riserva is often regarded as one of the greatest wines of the 20th century. Crafted by Tancredi Biondi Santi amidst the aftermath of World War II, this extraordinary wine symbolises hope and resilience in the face of adversity. With its intense, velvety texture, remarkable complexity, and astounding longevity, the 1945 Riserva is a true testament to the Biondi Santi legacy.

1985 Riserva: The 1985 Riserva is another masterpiece from the Biondi Santi Winery, often hailed as the “benchmark” for Brunello di Montalcino. This exquisite wine is characterised by its impeccable balance, finesse, and harmony. With a captivating bouquet of wild berries, leather and spices, and a palate defined by silky tannins and an endless finish, the 1985 Riserva is a wine that continues to enchant connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike.

2010 Riserva: The 2010 Riserva, a veritable modern classic, showcases the impeccable craftsmanship and attention to detail that has become synonymous with the Biondi Santi name. This powerful and structured wine captivates the senses with its complex layers of dark fruit, elegant, velvety tannins and an extraordinary finish

IV. A COMMITMENT TO SUSTAINABILITY

In recent years, Biondi Santi has embraced sustainable practices to ensure the preservation of their land and the integrity of their wines. By implementing organic farming techniques, reducing water consumption and promoting biodiversity, the winery has solidified its commitment to environmental stewardship.

Biondi Santi has adopted organic farming practices to remove any use of synthetic chemicals, promote biodiversity, and maintain the ecological balance of their vineyards. By using natural alternatives to protect against pests and diseases, the estate nurtures a healthy environment that allows the vines to thrive and produce high-quality grapes.

Recognizing the importance of water as a precious resource, the vintners of Biondi Santi

have implemented measures to reduce water consumption in their vineyards. Through the careful monitoring of water usage, the winery ensures that every drop of water is used efficiently and responsibly.

Biondi Santi is also deeply committed to preserving the natural ecosystems surrounding their vineyards. The estate encourages biodiversity by maintaining natural habitats for flora and fauna, such as hedgerows and wildflower meadows. This approach not only protects local wildlife but also helps maintain a balanced ecosystem that

into smaller, distinct parcels, the estate can closely monitor and manage each plot to optimise grape quality and ensure the unique characteristics of each terroir are fully expressed in their wines.

Each parcel within the Biondi Santi estate is managed individually, allowing the winemaking team to adjust their approach based on the specific needs of each plot. This precise management style enables the team to cater to the unique requirements of each parcel, including soil composition, microclimate, and grape variety.

benefits the vineyards in the long term.

V. PARCELING THE VINEYARD: PRECISION VITICULTURE AT BIONDI SANTI

The parcelling system also plays a crucial role during harvest and fermentation. Grapes from each individual parcel are harvested and fermented separately, ensuring that the unique qualities of each plot are preserved throughout the winemaking process. This attention to detail and precision allows the vigneron to craft wines that truly express the distinct terroir of each vineyard parcel.

VI. THE NEXT CHAPTER:

The Biondi Santi Winery, with its captivating history and intriguing vintages, has carved an indelible place in the hearts of wine aficionados around the globe. Long may it continue.

Biondi Santi’s dedication to producing exceptional wines furthermore extends to their meticulous approach to parcelling the vineyard. By dividing their vineyards TR

“With its intense, velvety texture, remarkable complexity, and astounding longevity, the 1945 Riserva is a true testament to the Biondi Santi legacy.”

TONGA ROOM & HURRICANE BAR - SF

Words: Peter J Robinson - Managing Editor

Mahiki is probably the closest I have ever found myself to a Tiki-inspired experience of any description on this side of the pond. Though it was decidedly devoid of fine dining; relying more on its ability to mix litre-sized cocktail chests in abundance.

The Tiki era took root sometime in the middle of the Depression, when American Ernest Gantt opened Hollywood institution Don’s Beachcomber Café. Prohibition had been repealed and having worked as a bootlegger after returning from his travels in the South Pacific, Gantt began to create his Rhum Rhapsodies for the masses. “one of sour, two of sweet, three of strong, four of weak.” Gantt soon changed his name to Donn Beach, upgraded to a lot across the street at 1727 N and added a restaurant, rum shop, gift store and Chinese grocery to

boot - innovative indeed, when you consider it was 1933. The most telling addition to the new eatery; Donn installed a sprinkler on top of the roof to dissuade guests from leaving early for fear of getting caught in passing showers. I can imagine that after ‘three of strong’ it probably worked on most of the first timer Hollywood crowd too.

Whilst Don can be credited as one of the founding fathers of Tiki culture, I couldn’t see myself flying the five-and-a-half hours to the last remaining outpost on Honolulu. My reservation was already booked at a historic San Francisco institution atop Nob Hill.

In 1906, Virginia Fair Vanderbilt and Theresa Fair Oelrichs were working with stalwart San Francisco architecture firm of Reid & Reid to build a palatial hotel in the Italian Renaissance style. Their father, U.S. Senator James Graham

Fair had passed and had earlier purchased the parcel of land with the intention of building the largest mansion on the hill. Construction work began in earnest, and whilst the building survived the initial 1906 earthquake, the subsequent widespread fire eviscerated the structure. The iconic Fairmont eventually rose from the ashes and opened its doors on April 18th, 1907. Families would journey to the property for months-long sojourns with the children enrolled in the hotel’s school, where they’d be taught dance, music and art. Those were very different times in hospitality, ladies and gents.

It wasn’t until 1929 when mining engineer George Smith took ownership that the Fairmont would see its first plunge pool - the unlikely foundation for what is still known today as the Fairmont’s infamous Tonga Room. Of course, the property changed hands again, shortly after hosting the writing of the United

Nations Charter in 1945 to be exact. The new financier, philanthropist and owner - a certain Benjamin Swig - was told that the pool was no longer generating any serious revenue, and so enlisted Mel Melvin, Metro Goldwyn Mayer’s lead set director; heavy artillery when it comes to setting a scene by anyone’s standard. Keen to ensure the room’s nautical theme remained, Melvin secured an old lumber schooner, the S.S. Forester and began to install and renovate it in the hotel’s basement. Several weeks later, full musical numbers were being performed on the ship’s deck whilst the nightly orchestra floated on the Plunge, which had become the undeniable centre of attraction. I was told in advance there was a healthy fine for anyone loose enough to jump in the pool. Whilst such shenanigans may be encouraged during race week at the Rooftop pool at the Fairmont Monaco, this really isn’t the place.

There were, naturally, renovations over the years to keep up with the ‘Tiki times’. In 1953 they installed some practical effects. A scheduled 30 minute downpour complete with thunder and lightning - reminiscent, perhaps of Donn Beach’s sprinkler on the roof, but with all the pressure power of Hollywood. We are talking about a restaurant that Anthony Bourdain once described as “the greatest place in the history of the world”, remember.

The ‘last looks’ came in 1967 when Howard Hirsch introduced tactile lava-rock walls, thatched roof huts and custom-carved tikis. But it’s probably around that time that the Tonga Room was frozen in time, or at least I hoped so.

I had spent the day solo driving up and down the PCH looking for places to shoot the new Ferrari Roma, and so by the evening I was in need of a stiff drink to settle my accelerator

foot. I was joined by regular Ferrari botherer Alex Clark, who was in town to see another Black Testarossa the same week. As we had arrived 30 minutes early, we decided that the sensible thing to do first was to see if the Tonga Rooms had loitering space at the bar. No. Its heritage somewhat put paid to any chance of standing room only without a separate reservation. I approached the security gentleman at the rope line, and with my most apologetic British accent said “Sorry to bother you, I fully appreciate there is indeed a queue, I have a reservation for 30 minutes’ time and wondered if it was possible to get a drink at the bar and wait for the table?”. “Are you a guest at the hotel, Sir?”. “I’m not, no, I have a reservation under the name of Robinson”. “The queue for the bar is on that side of the corridor, Sir”. It wasn’t what I would call a small queue.

So, in the spirit of that somewhat curt response,

we decided to respect the history, observe the formalities and return upstairs to find a libation. The Laurel Court restaurant and Bar was also well subscribed - it was, after all, a Saturday night. If you do find yourself with time for an apéritif, please tour the hotel. To say it’s a venerable piece of San Francisco’s history doesn’t do it justice.

Two beers later and we decided it was time to venture back to the subterranean Tonga Room. This time the crowds had swollen at the entrance in the hotel’s corridor. I stopped and surveyed the line, keen to avoid another Americanised faux pas. This time though, the message was clear: “Reservation for the current time (taps watch), for Robinson”. “Please step this way, Mr Robinson”. Henry Hill and Karen entering the Copacabana in Goodfellas it wasn’t, but my god the nostalgia of the place hits you upside the face with all the gravity that it should.

The bar area is already well subscribed as we follow our waiter through the rigging and under canoes roped to the ceiling. I’m getting a definite Goonies vibe by this point. As The Island Groove, the resident ‘band on the boat’ are towed slowly to the middle of the pool, I’m surveying the cocktail list in earnest. I usually fall foul of American measures and the forthright avoidance of using a measure or Jigger, and tonight would be no exception. The venue is widely regarded as having the best Mai Tai in the city, citing Oakland as its founding ground. The Jungle Bird was invented at the Kuala Lumpur Hilton in ‘78 and also deserves a mention, as does the Tonga Kong. By this point in the evening, the band’s in full swing and the main beams of the dance floor are taking a decent hammering by one and all. Supper was arriving with the third round of cocktails as Alex and I craned our necks to watch the nightlife at the bar. Chilli pepper wings, an Ahi Tuna poké and grilled Miso salmon with sesame tahini bok choy. As Tiki royalty, you might expect some

resting on laurels. Fear not, the Tonga Room knows how to serve up some seriously delicious Pacific Rim cuisine.

At some point in the evening as tables were changing, we realised we had strayed into another sitting and our waiter kindly conveyed we were welcome for the night. “Right, well that’s that then - ‘till the wheels come off”. Sometime later, mildly inebriated and with the band’s riffs still circling my head, we stepped out into the mild evening on the hill. It was at this point we were both rather glad we had left the precious metal parked safely, and we bid each other farewell and until next time.

The Tonga Room might well have managed to carve out its future, safe in the knowledge that it’s just too wild a venue on all fronts to be the victim of redevelopment in the Bay area. Many have tried and failed but nonetheless, I wouldn’t wait too long. Next time you’re in town, be sure to make the pilgrimage. TR

THE BACK GARDEN - WR12

Words: Peter J Robinson - Managing Editor

The Farncombe estate has been representing the Cotswolds from its 400 acre perch on the northwestern edge of the Wolds for long enough to be a recognised fixture by those who matter. I would suggest long enough for most readers to have matriculated there, membership in hand. Despite living thirty minutes away, I have never spent an evening at the estate’s Dormy House. Spa. Drinks, Automotive events - sure, but I’d never spent the night. I have overnighted at Foxhill Manor on the estate a few times though and that is quite the spot, so bonafides are in order. So on a less-than-dry afternoon, we hopped into the Pembleton V-Sport and made for The Back Garden restaurant.

Arriving just before 2pm, the heavens mercifully held their downpour till the open top three-wheeler was safely stowed under her less than ceremonious grey tarp. Our quartette

had spent the weekend shooting and dining around the Wolds and this was to be the final hurrah of the weekend. Spirits however, on this particular Sunday, were holstered a little due to an indulgence in Stow-on-the-Wold the night before.

Dormy is the estate’s 17th century farmhouse - think flagstone floors and fireplaces a plenty. It also houses the estate’s flagship wellness spa and a 16m indoor infinity pool. I still find it odd that I’ve imbibed and visited the spa here but not dined. Wild.

The Back Garden restaurant was perhaps half full when we arrived. Given our preference to dine at 2pm, perfect. It’s a contemporary space both in terms of its bold design patterns and approach to the menu. We’re getting pretty close to Farm to Table with the estate gardens offering up a substantial amount of the fare on

offer. Beetroot soup with crème fraîche, shiso cress and a whisper of wasabi. Or perhaps a Comté cheese soufflé with Sauternes-poached apricots and thyme cream. I know. You’re there with me at the table, napkin and fork ready. The benefit of dining as a group of four hungry gents is that family style is going to be the norm, whether everyone likes it or not.

This was a new phase of analysis paralysis. I have seen strong menus in my time but the level of debate amongst the group was intent. It was at this point that a round of bloody marys seemed appropriate for Sunday lunch. And perhaps the Pétale de Rose Château la Tour de l’Eveque 2021 Rosé. Start as you mean to go on.

Eventually we clawed our way through the indecision to a Burrata with salt baked celeriac, balsamic and smoked almonds. The Confit of smoked salmon, sea vegetables and vermouth

sauce. The obligatory scotch egg and both the Beetroot soup and Comté cheese soufflé. After a heady weekend, the group was in survival mode. Silence fell at the table though as forks were raised and deployed. It was expertlypresented, locally-cultivated slow food. The bite from the beetroot, the lingering aroma of the Comté and the hearty Scotch egg, sublime.

The Saint-Veran Les Chantenays Domaine 2020 next, I think. The perfect accompaniment to the Steamed fillet of sea bass with lobster bisque. It was a triumph of balance. The pristinely buttery, flakey piece of sea bass cooked to perfection. If that wasn’t enough, add the dauphinoise with Vacherin Fribourgeois cheese. Jesus.

The service team and kitchen runs a very tight ship, albeit with an informal house guest approach. I say this, but you should know by now that any smart hotel or retreat pairs its approach and team to the guests depending on their formal or informal demeanour. It feels personal, as it should, put it that way.

Sometime after the main course, with everyone starting to wilt, the option of pudding arrived. Both Oliver and I are suckers for a sticky toffee pudding and no one was passing on a caramel crème brûlée with poached pear and sherry.

I’m not sure we needed the sugar given the open-top ride back to base, but my word was it well done. I suspect had another dessert wine appeared, we would have been in for the afternoon.

If you’ve not ventured out to The Farncombe estate, do. Spend the weekend and visit all the properties, hell, go shooting or riding, or perhaps even take out their new hovercraft. That’s right. The locals will love that. So do come and experience the area, just don’t buy a house locally and return to the city or airport. Please. They offer superb dishes of seasonal-themed country food that’s both foraged and farmed using suppliers we all know at the pub.

Two hours later, with the sun beginning to break, we threw the tarp off the Pembleton and made for Donnington Brewery for a quick row across the lake, and perhaps a pint of Double Donn. Perfection on a Sunday in the Wolds.

THE EVOLUTION OF SLOANE - SW1W

Words: Peter J Robinson - Managing Editor

Whilst famous for jazz bands, bootleggers and bathtub gin, the roaring 20s were also a time of rapid societal change in a world awakening to the empowering force of women’s emancipation. Nestled in the heart of chic Chelsea, a glittering haven was emerging where women could gather, relax, and share their life experiences. This was the birth of the Sloane Club - a timeless institution that has remained a cornerstone of London’s elite social scene for more than a century.

THE HIDEAWAY

The history of the Sloane Square area dates back to the 17th century when it was laid out by Sir Hans Sloane, a physician and naturalist, who had amassed significant land holdings in the area. The vision for the upmarket district was realised in the 19th century with the development of the Cadogan Estate. The neighbourhood quickly became a fashionable residential address for London’s elite, with its grand terraces and stately townhouses.

From its inception, the Sloane Club was nothing less than a trailblazer. Founded in 1922 as the Service Women’s Club, its mission was to provide a sanctuary for women returning from World War I. They sought a safe space where they could reconnect with society and find respite from the trauma they had endured on the front lines. The club, housed in a charming Georgian townhouse, quickly became a haven for these brave women - a place where they could enjoy the finer things in life and reclaim their sense of identity.

As the years rolled by, the Sloane Club evolved, embracing the shifting social landscape and redefining itself as a bastion of taste and sophistication. In the 1950s, as the winds of change swept across the nation, the club opened its doors to a wider audience, extending membership to women who had not served in the military.

The 1960s and 70s saw the club become a hotspot for Chelsea’s elite, attracting celebrities, aristocrats and socialites alike. It was during this time that the term “Sloane Ranger” was coined, a moniker that captured the essence of the club’s memberseffortlessly chic, affluent, and always impeccably dressed. If you’re young enough to need to google

Sloane Ranger, ask your parents.

Our first introduction to the club’s hallowed halls was by long-serving and outbound MD Tony Murkett in 2017. Having toured the establishment with Global Travel Editor Sarah Morgan, it was clear that change was afoot at The Sloane Club. Not institutional change, you understand - rather the planned addition of a new boutique hotel and restaurant, Sloane Place, at the club’s south entrance.

driven, featuring locally sourced ingredients that pay tribute to the history and culture of the area. Dishes like the pan-roasted venison with juniper berry jus or the elderflower-infused gin and tonic sorbet showcase the restaurant’s commitment to innovation and excellence, albeit with a knowing nod to time-honoured classics.

Sloane Place’s 27 rooms offer a variety of contemporary and traditional styles, with the Chelsea Suites boasting modern décor, separate lounge areas, and rainfall showers. Each is sumptuously appointed; plush linens, incredibly comfortable Hypnos beds, writing desks and marble bathrooms abound. Every space is uniquely decorated, but all share the same level of comfort and attention to detail that one would expect from a hotel of this calibre. The Sloane Place Hotel and Restaurant have expertly incorporated elements of this storied past into its design and ethos, delivered with consistent panache through the décor - a harmonious blend of classic English elegance and contemporary luxury.

This was only my second time visiting Sloane Place, and so I earnestly made the same mistake as my last visit, entering the venue via the restaurant and not the reception. The buzzing eatery dominates the ground floor, offering a delightful blend of British and Javanese cuisine in a lively atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot to unwind after a day spent shopping on King’s Road or exploring the nearby galleries and Royal Court Theatre. The moody cocktail bar, The Hideaway, offers a speakeasy-style retreat, perfect for sipping a gin-based classic. If an outdoor experience is what’s sought, the Roof Terrace, adorned with floral arrangements and festoon lights, provides a welcoming space to hide. The menu is seasonally

With the Saatchi Gallery, the Royal Court Theatre and the bustling King’s Road all within walking distance, guests are ideally situated to explore the surrounding neighbourhood. Moreover, the hotel’s concierge team is on hand to provide personalised recommendations, ensuring that guests experience the very best of what Sloane Square has to offer.

Sloane Place Hotel & Restaurant is a triumphant fusion of the area’s opulent past, and is a true embodiment of the Sloane Ranger spirit that once dominated the social scene of London’s elite. With its exquisite blend of history, style, and modernity, this boutique hotel is the perfect destination for those seeking to experience the timeless allure of Chelsea’s most iconic neighbourhood.

THE WELL APPOINTED SUITES

“It’s the perfect spot to unwind after a day spent shopping on King’s Road or exploring the nearby galleries and Royal Court Theatre.”

Scents of Direction

Our Pick Of The Best Men’s Fragrances for Spring 2023

Words: The Editors

From the trusty colognes enabling a daily sense of distinction to the suave, seductive and sophisticated fragrances we turn to when needs must and the night calls, a well-curated scent wardrobe is an unmissable addition to any gentleman’s daily arsenal.

We’ve taken the liberty of removing the heavy lifting from selecting your new favourite fragrance for Spring and Summer 2023. After sifting through myriad releases from the most iconic and innovative perfumiers, we’ve picked out an array of tried-and-tested winners from the contemporary men’s fragrance scene.

Each as captivating as it is distinguished and guaranteed to leave an irresistible trail, this collation of eight scents pour homme deserves pride of place on your new list of old reliables.

Balancing a deeply woody foundation with fresh, spicy flourishes, Cosy Cedar Wood from luxury perfumier Krigler encapsulates a thoroughly modern interpretation of urbane masculinity. It’s a striking release from the German haute-parfumerie maison, revealing the kind of suave Mitteleuropean allure they do so well, and taking me back to my days wandering West Berlin - doused in whatever I could get away anointing myself in at the city’s more glamorous department stores.

With accords including cypress, incense, rosemary, patchouli, vetiver and sandalwood, this is an eau de parfum with impressive sillage and strength, and yet it envelopes in ways which never overpower, leaving an irresistible trail that makes a lasting impact. It’s really rather special.

Top notes: Fresh ginger from Madagascar, pepper from Karnataka, italian bergamot. Middle notes: Fig milk, Ceylon cinnamon, cashmere wood. Base notes: Patchouli, Sandalwood, Nutmeg

DS & Durga never fail to impress with their disruptive and effortlessly stylish creations. Grapefruit Generation succeeds in being zippily fresh and fruity while maintaining a sense of mystique and nonchalence, evoking California hillscapes and an essence of liberated cool. I’m not normally drawn to the fruitier and brisker side of the scent spectrum - those teenage goth years swirling in patchouli and sandalwood never truly leave you - but as the mercury has risen, I can’t help but revel in the freshness and vibrancy of this hip-as-hip-can-be scent.

Those puckering top notes of pomelo and elm leaf are given sensual heft with a base of animalic musk, combining a raw sexual confidence with a thoroughly outdoorsy springtime swagger. Delicious.

Top notes: Pomelo skin, Elm leaf, Silver. Middle notes: Hawthorn flower, Tuberose and Paradisone. Base notes: Cork, Grapefruit and Animalic musk.

This time of year puts us in the mood for adventure. Not night-on-the-town adventure, but cutting a path through the continent, heading east in search of spice markets and dark-eyed beauties adventure. Constantinople - Penhaligon’s ode to the Queen of Cities - encapsulates such endeavours with a sultry, seductive blend of moss, vanilla, pepper and patchouli.

As with every release from the brand’s increasingly impressive range, Constantinople is a brilliant expression of British eccentricity and charm. The oriental notes are never too cloying, the sweeter spectrum never too effete - it’s a perfume which dances around a whole array of contrasts, and manages to maintain its distinction and unusual accord while still very much being sophisticated, sensual and surprisingly grown-up… without being stuffy. As the days grow warmer and longer, this is a scent to inspire and allure.

Top notes: Pink pepper, Lavender and Geranium essence. Middle notes: Vetiver, Leather, Sandalwood. Base notes: Patchouli, Ambrofix, Akigalawood

Jusbox - a contemporary Italian fragrance house - has been on our radar for some time. They somehow manage to strike their brand values with surprising panache, evoking the essence of musical scenes and bohemian swing through their carefully curated eau de parfum, each crafted from an array of rare ingredients.

Beat Cafe was inspired by the music of Bob Dylan and the dusty, smoky folk scene of the 1960s. That it manages to achieve this conjuration is no mean feat, showcasing black pepper, leather, tobacco and vetiver for a scent with rockstar appeal. It’s a concept that could so easily find itself on the slippery slope of a gimmick, but it’s delivered with a juxtaposed sincerity and playfulness - and undeniable skill when it comes to blending and balancing - that I found myself with a brand new favourite that’s sure to persist through the seasons.

Top notes: Black Pepper, Coriander and Cognac accord. Middle notes: Cistus Labdanum, Black Leather and Tobacco. Base notes: Vetiver, Cedarwood and Benzoin Balm.

Ialways gravitate towards bold classics with a certain enigmatic allure. Desire Black combines the richness of oriental scents with the freshness of fruity and spicy notes. Launched in 2014, my almost decade-old go-to accompanies me when luggage allows, given its hip flask-like proportions. It takes me back to sitting by Hôtel Palafitte on Lake Neuchâtel with the sun glistening on the water.

You’ll find the top notes are a vibrant and zesty mix of grapefruit, bergamot, and petitgrain. The citrusy freshness of grapefruit and bergamot intermingle with the subtle woody essence of petitgrain, providing an invigorating and uplifting initial fragrance. Saffron, black pepper, and cypress create a warm and spicy backdrop that exudes an aura of mystery and confidence in the middle. The addition of rose lends a touch of elegance and depth to the fragrance, creating a harmonious balance between the spicy and floral aspects.

Desire Black reaches its full potency in the base notes, which reveal a rich and opulent combination of amber, vetiver, and patchouli. The earthy and woody tones of vetiver and patchouli provide a strong foundation, while the amber adds a hint of sensuality and warmth to the overall composition. The result is a long-lasting and memorable dry-down that lingers on the skin, leaving a trail of seduction in its wake.

Top notes: Bergamot, Black Pepper and Grapefruit. Middle notes: Cypress, Saffron and Rose. Base notes: Vetiver, Olibanum and Amber.

Clouds of No5 would drift through my grandparents home on lazy Sunday afternoons. My Grandmother, Mother and Aunts would hold court in the dining room, all doused to the hilt. It’s a core memory. So it’s no surprise that my Grandmother would buy me Bleu de Chanel at Christmas. It’s for that reason I have always found the fragrance to evoke a sense of legacy somehow.

I used to consider it a date night fragrance with its base notes of sandalwood, cedar and amber wood. However the citrus top notes of bergamot, lemon and artemisia are balanced out by the lavender and geranium of the mid notes. Whilst it certainly has masculine tones with some cigar and sandalwood base notes, I don’t think it’s musky enough to not be enjoyed by all.

Its scent is the real epitome of an elegant aromatic that stays on the skin and still has Chanel’s grapefruit signature. Bleu was the first fragrance launched as part of this collection, and is one of the final fragrances that Jacques Polge created before his son, Oliver Polge, continued the line and took over.

Top notes: Lemon, Mint, Pink Pepper and Grapefruit citrus. Middle notes: Ginger, Nutmeg and Jasmine. Base notes: Labdanum, Sandalwood, Patchouli, Vetiver and cedar.

The statement scent. Osaito is rarely spritzed in the name of lunch, it only tends to come out of the cabinet for black tie grade socials. You’re almost guaranteed to spend the evening meeting and greeting, and so I like to opt for something that leaves an impression.

The opening notes are a bright and zesty blend of bergamot, grapefruit, and lemon that’s really energising and vibrant. As it settles on the skin, the heart notes of jasmine, blackcurrant, and fig lend a floral sweetness that’s both feminine and alluring. And finally, the base notes of musk, cedarwood, and vanilla anchor the scent in a warm and calming space.

What’s truly interesting about Osaito is its evolution, revealing different facets of its character with every passing hour. In the beginning, it’s fresh and invigorating, then it becomes more sensual and romantic before settling into a cozy and intimate warmth that stays with you long after you’ve left the room. It’s tough to be both timeless and contemporary, but M.Micallef manages it whilst also keeping its ingredients a secret.

Top notes: Amber, Blackurrant, Blond suede, Exotic woods, Musk and Sandalwood. Middle notes: Amalfi lemon, Celone, Marigold and Myrtle. Base notes: Amber wood, Amberette, Citrus and Grapefruit.