Tempus Magazine | Issue 55 | January 2018

TIMELESS INSPIRATION

PARADISE FOUND 2018’s ultimate island escapes

ISSUE

55

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B E R INGICE.COM

After a comprehensive renovation, Hotel Courcheneige reopens with a fresh, modern look that incorporates new, personal touches, designed to accentuate guest comfort. Discover a ski in ski out hotel experience that offers it all, from premium quality rooms and friendly service to an excellent dining selection. Located at the heart of the Bellecote ski slope in Courchevel 1850, it’s the perfect place to relax after a long day on the slopes.

Tel: +33 (0) 479 08 02 59 – info@courcheneige.com www.courcheneige.com Ski in – Ski out 80 rooms – 5 suites Room rates from 325 Euros half-board per night (double occupancy)

FROM THE EDITOR The new year is a time for change and for 2018, we’ve given Tempus a facelift with a fresh cover design and six exciting new themes.

We kick-start with our first ever Travel Special, our essential guide to the greatest destinations on earth. With a focus on exclusive escapes, we visit some of the most remote islands in the world. From French Polynesia and the Seychelles to St Lucia and Sri Lanka, here are our highlights. We’ve also got the lowdown on the latest travel trends – experiential adventures, extreme exploration and gastronomic journeys are the name of the game in 2018.

For what to wear when travelling, we’ve got you covered in our Style section, with the most impressive multi-time zone watches and tips on creating the ultimate capsule wardrobe for your next trip.

In Culture, we talk to world-leading guide Inge Solheim, who’s organised trips for the likes of Prince Harry, and find out why painter Lincoln Townley decided to become the first artist in the UK to sell his work via Bitcoin.

We also head to LA to test-drive a new Porsche-inspired design by Gunther Werks, sail the latest superyachts in Phuket, and board the world’s biggest private party jet. Read our exclusive reviews in Move.

For the latest in gastronomy and wellness, don’t miss Indulge, where we analyse the growing trend of sake, sample Portuguese cuisine in Lisbon, and take a peek inside the new Lanesborough Health Club & Spa. Finally, in Property, we explore the most stunning new properties on the market and unveil how to increase the profitability of your holiday homes.

This year, we’re also excited to announce that we’re headline partners of the 2018 BRIT Awards Official After Party. Visit tempusmagazine.co.uk for more information and exclusive interviews leading up to the event on 21 February.

Enjoy the issue.

Rachel Ingram

Editorial Director Scott Manson scott@tempusmagazine.co.uk Editor Rachel Ingram rachel@tempusmagazine.co.uk Creative Director Ross Forbes ross@tempusmagazine.co.uk Digital Editor Michelle Johnson michelle@tempusmagazine.co.uk

Managing Director George Evans george.evans@tempusmagazine.co.uk +44 (0) 7860 829661 Partnerships Director Matthew Best matthew@tempusmagazine.co.uk +44 (0) 7948 432554 Partnerships Director Chris Mach chris.mach@tempusmagazine.co.uk +44 (0) 7584 660715

Events Director Georgia Peck georgia@tempusmagazine.co.uk Chief Executive Officer Shaun Prince shaun@tempusmagazine.co.uk Editorial Assistant Dan Krout dan@tempusmagazine.co.uk Digital Writer Rose Adams intern@tempusmagazine.co.uk

Contributors

Juliet Kinsman

Nigel Tisdall

Peter Dean

Kyle Fortune

As the former editor-in-chief of the Mr and Mrs Smith hotel guides, Juliet’s knowledge of travel trends is second-to-none. Read about her 2018 hot spots on page 16.

Nigel Tisdall writes for the Telegraph and Financial Times and is the editor of The Coconut Times. Discover his guide to the Caribbean after the storms on page 42.

A wine expert and collector, Peter has been writing for The Guardian, BBC and luxury lifestyle magazines for almost four decades. Enjoy his article on the rise of sake on page 98.

For 20 years, motoring journalist Kyle has driven pretty much every vehicle under the sun and called it work. Read all about his latest adventure on page 84.

Office Address: Tempus Media Floor 5, 3-5 Wardour Street London, W1D 6PB

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Phone Number:

Cover image North Island, Seychelles Luxury Private Island Article on page 22

+44 (0) 20 7993 4183

Š 2018 Tempus Media Limited Articles and other contributions published in this journal may be reproduced only with special permission from the Publishers. The Publishers Tempus Media Limited, accept no responsibility for any views or statements made in the articles and other contributions reproduced from any other source. No responsibility is accepted for the claims in advertisements appearing in this journal and the Publishers reserve the right to accept or refuse advertisements at their discretion.

CONTENTS

Travel 12 The luxe list This season’s most exciting new launches 16 The feel good future of travel The greatest travel trends of 2018 22 Island legacy Why the Seychelles should be top of your travel list 28 Beachside bliss Finding inner peace in Sri Lanka 32 Awakening a legend Discovering the magic of French Polynesia 38 Next level living Exploring the island of St Lucia 42 After the storm How the Caribbean has recovered after the hurricanes 46 Irish charm Inside Ireland's most charming country house hotel

Style 54 All the time in the world The best world time watches on the market 60 Out of the ordinary The ultimate Valentine's gift guide 64 The stylish traveller How to capsule pack 66 On the edge Custom wooden skis for the slopes

Culture 72 New frontiers Inge Solheim talks extreme exploration 76 The great disruptor In conversation with innovative artist Lincoln Townley 80 Time to party An exclusive preview of the 2018 BRIT Awards Official After Party

Move 84 A classic reimagined Driving LA's canyon roads with Porsche and Gunther Werks 88 Dream ticket Inside the world's biggest party plane 92 The Phuket effect Discovering Asia's newest superyacht hub

Indulge 98 Against the grain Sampling the emerging trend of sake 102 Magic moments We review Mexican hotspot Ella Canta 104 The sweet escape Eating our way around Lisbon 108 Table for two Valentine's escapes for food enthusiasts 114 The golden ticket Inside the new Lanesborough Health Club & Spa

Property 118 Remote realms Second homes in extreme destinations 124 Second to none How to make money from your holiday home 126 Home from home A sneak peek inside the elegant Villa O

ISSUE 55

Island legacy 22

The LUXE LIST Our essential guide to the most exciting new launches and finest seasonal must-haves

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Aston Martin Vantage Whether you’re after a new set of wheels to spin along winding country roads at the weekend or just to complete your daily commute, Aston Martin’s newest model Vantage is guaranteed to get your engine revving. Boasting a high powered four-litre twin-turbocharged V8 that produces the distinctive Aston Martin roar, an impressive acceleration of zero to 62 mph in 3.6 seconds, and a speed of up to 195mph, Vantage embodies all we’ve come to expect from the iconic brand’s performance sports car range. global.astonmartin.com

2 Velaa Private Island When it comes to serene atmosphere, complete privacy and unrivalled views, The Maldives is hard to beat. Dubbed ‘an Island for all the senses,’ this boutique hideaway is as close to paradise as you can get. Each of the private retreats is built using local materials designed for sensory exploration, and the accommodation options range from beach front villas to the idyllic Romantic Pool Residence – an overwater residence fringed with traditional thatch. Accessibly only by boat, it’s arguably the most exclusive villa in the Noonu Atoll. velaaprivateisland.com

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Globe Trotter Trolley Case

Your holiday essentials are only as chic as the case they’re transported in, and they don’t come much sleeker than Globe Trotter’s new safari collection.

Inspired by journeys across African plains, the range evokes feelings of elegance and adventure with its natural leather belts, and striking ivory and sand or ivory and Masai red colour palette, enticing the well-seasoned traveller to want to explore further. Our pick is the 30” Globe Trotter Trolley Case for £1,485.

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Omega Winter Olympics timepieces In 2018, Omega will reprise its historic role as Official Timekeeper of the Olympic Games for the 28th time. To mark the upcoming event in South Korea, they’ve treated us to two limited edition Seamaster models, each curated with the brand’s contemporary style and precision in mind. Following on from their ‘Sochi 2014’ and ‘Rio 2016’ collection, this new range is designed to inspire the winner in us all. Five versions are available in the colours of the Olympic rings – red, green, gold, black and blue. omegawatches.com

Yar Audio

If you’ve ever imagined enjoying a concert from the comfort of your own living room, Yar Audio is the sound system you’ve been waiting for.

Offering the next best thing to live music, its line of sleek speakers are designed to transport you right to the heart of a live performance. Hand made in Italy and available only via request from one of the bran’ds central London locations, each speaker is completely bespoke. But you’ll have to be quick – only 100 units will be produced. yaraudio.com

globe-trotter.com

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Rosetti Superyachts in partnership with Rolls-Royce Sail away from the stress of your current surroundings with the help of Rosetti Superyachts, who’ve just announced plans for a grand new superyacht in concept with Rolls-Royce, who’ve supplied the engines, power electric system and propulsion units. The brains behind this 85m expedition supply vessel is Italian yacht architect Tommaso Spadolini, who’s also responsible for designing the Aslec 4 and Gio Chi, so no doubt this latest offering will be just as impressive. Exciting features include accommodation for 12 crew and crew lounge, four double guest cabins with en-suite bathrooms, an open-plan suite forward, walk-in wardrobe, and aft dining room. The upper deck forward has a private owner’s lounge, study and access to the open foredeck with pool. rosettisuperyachts.it

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Stoke Park

Stoke Park offers five-star luxury in a location so picturesque you’d never know it was a mere 35-minutes from central London. Book a staycation and spend your time relaxing in the spa garden, challenging your companions on one of the 13 tennis courts, or working on your swing at the private 27-hole Championship course (annual golf membership comes in at Audemars Piguet Diamond Outrage £3,570). Finish the day by dining on fine cuisine at the awardwinning Humphry’s restaurant, before getting your beauty sleep in the luxurious master suite. stokepark.com

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TRAVEL

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Belmond luxury train journeys If you’re planning to take your European holiday down a more opulent track, look no further than the Belmond’s luxury train journeys. The train’s art deco decor will enable you to rekindle the romance of rail as you travel between Europe’s most captivating cities. Think polished wood, luxe upholstery and antique fixtures – the train epitomises the ultimate in elegance from the golden age of travel. Our highlight? The romantic ride from London to Verona for £3,500 per passenger – ideal for a Valentine’s escape.

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National Geographic Private Jet Trips Quit poring over National Geographic’s awe-inspiring photography because you can now experience that spirit of adventure first hand, with its private jet expeditions. Packages on offer include Australia and New Zealand for £54,945, and Great Empires, exploring the dazzling mosaics of Persian mosques and the Silk Road riches of Central Asia for £58,000. If you can’t possibly pick between countries, don’t fret, because there’s also the option of a once-in-a-lifetime trip around the world for a cool £67,945. What’s more, you also support the National Geographic Society’s researchers and explorers who work to preserve, protect, and advance our understanding of the planet and its people. It’s culture with a conscience.

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nationalgeographicexpeditions.co.uk

belmond.com

Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort Dubai is the first port of call for luxury ‘winter sun’ escapes and this idyllic beachside resort is no exception. Anantara The Palm offers everything you’d desire from such a hotel including an infinity pool, turquoise swimming lagoons, tennis courts, gym and relaxing spa treatments. Designed with true Asian flair, guests are also able to enjoy enchanting sea views, complemented by delectable Asian cuisine, making it the perfect place to travel to this season. dubai-palm.anantara.com

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The feel good

FUTURE of TRAVEL Ubuntu, Ikigai and spa psychologists are on tomorrow’s travel itinerary. We reveal how enriching adventures with a sense of belonging and purpose are driving luxury travel in 2018

Words: Juliet Kinsman

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ust when we think we’ve seen everything, our extraordinary world reminds us we’re only a drive or a flight away from mind-blowing adventures. Sure, the richest memories can come from the simplest pleasures — but all the better to combine meaningful moments with a next-level place to stay. ‘Ikigai’ is the new hygge, and finding a sexy design-focused hotel which is also making a positive difference is the holy grail. In Japanese, ‘iki’ means life and ‘gai’ means value, so this term represents finding your purpose. Stay in hotels with a strong ikigai and you’ll relax all the more knowing your vacation is paying it forward.

Discover intelligent luxury with integrity through @TheLongRun on Instagram or find getaways as glamorous as they are green via @BoutecoHotels on Instagram and you’ll see that Fogo Island Inn in Newfoundland is a hotel with a huge heart. This remote Canadian 29-suite inn proves that award-winning design is all the more edifying when served with a generous side order of authentic culture and nature in all its rugged glory. Innkeeper Zita Cobb’s forward-thinking purpose-before-profit social business has revived a once-fishing-reliant economy through attention-grabbing architecture, hip hyperlocal cuisine and by ripping up the traditional hospitality rulebook. »

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Ian Schrager’s PUBLIC hotel in New York, designed by Herzog & de Meuron

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Cempedak

Fit for a president Over in French Polynesia, 35-villa Brando is where Pippa Middleton honeymooned — but it’s the seawater-powered air-con giving the eco-minded a thrill. The sustainability of this private paradise island is seriously seductive — just ask Barack Obama who recently worked on his memoirs at this resort, which even has an eco-station equipped with laboratories and accommodation for visiting scientists.

Meanwhile, Aman can polish its halo for creating a new, seemingly ancient, walled village on the outskirts of Shanghai. Amanyangyun is comprised of precious Ming and Qing Dynasty villas and thousands of camphor trees saved from flooding due to the Liao Fang Reservoir in eastern China. An Indonesian private island retreat with policies and practices inspiring all is Cempedak in the Riau Archipelago. From Australian banker turned hotelier, Andrew Dixon, and named after the native fruit tree, its commitment to conservation has boosted endangered hawksbill turtle and sea otter populations. The Island Foundation also supports communitybased projects centred on social justice, community organisation, micro-finance and entrepreneurialism by working to eliminate poor education, sub-standard healthcare, and fixed local hierarchies.

Grootbos Private Nature Reserve is a botanical paradise, two hours from Cape Town. As well as preserving the critically endangered fynbos heathlands, profits are invested in a foundation which supports environmental and social initiatives. It also exemplifies Ubuntu, Nelson Mandela’s beloved South African philosophy which roughly translates as ‘human kindness’. A compelling sense of belonging and consideration for the greater good is what more brands are cultivating. Thanks to the growth of a sharing economy and co-working spaces, hotels are also twigging that when they’re better connected to their community, the togetherness is not only great for guests, but a boon for business.

Ian Schrager, a founding father of the original boutique hotel concept, is proving this with his PUBLIC hotels. On New York’s Lower East Side it’s all about the social spaces in the Herzog & de Meuron-designed building, just as the name suggests. Even W Hotels’ originator Barry Sternlicht has developed a hotel chain with a conscience: 1 Hotels in Miami’s South Beach and New York’s Central Park and Brooklyn Bridge are hi-tech urban bunk-ups that reconnect you with nature through the upcycled, repurposed, plantrich interiors and ethical supply chain.

1 Hotel in Miami

Inside New York’s PUBLIC hotel

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TRAVEL

THE SUSTAINABILITY OF THIS PRIVATE PARADISE ISLAND IS SERIOUSLY SEDUCTIVE — JUST ASK BARACK OBAMA WHO RECENTLY WORKED ON HIS MEMOIRS AT THIS RESORT

Vacation or ‘workation’?

1 Hotel in Miami blends style with ethical responsibility

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With digital-nomad lifestyles on the up, ‘workations’ are how on-the-go global citizens are mixing business with pleasure. Swapping Silicon Valley for surf-shack HQs, techpreneurs can now run businesses remotely from bamboo palaces in Bali. And why wouldn’t you? With a greater reverence for wellbeing and the pursuit of a more balanced approach to life being paramount, many are trading the rat race for turmeric kombuchas and working on laptops under coconut palms.

Less-mobile high-fliers desperate to recalibrate should seek out the new breed of more intellectual, cerebral and specialist retreats. Corinthia Hotels got into bed with renowned neuroscientist Dr Tara Swart to pioneer psychology-related wellness from their five-star hotel in Whitehall; their spa-event calendar extended her research on the mental resilience of business leaders as part of a series of talks.

Transformative weeks hosted in different destinations are Chosen’s way of taking the lives of the most accomplished to the next level. They host optimised physical, intellectual and sociable programmes in Iceland to New Zealand, which encompass action, adventure, experiential education, functional fitness, nutrition and mindfulness. Learning holidays are going more luxe, and we’re opening our minds in »

Indonesian private island retreat Cempedak

Vana in Dehradun

drop-dead fabulous locations. Move over wishy-washy watercolouring holidays in Bordeaux — take a bow, next-gen escapes with the likes of media mogul Ted Turner as your host.

The founder of CNN walks his philanthropic talk though by owning wilderness-protecting ranches across America and Argentina, making his deep connection with nature infectious. Private guides tailor each itinerary to the location and ambitions of the guests, from hiking and biking to heritage tours. Stay at his private seven-bedroom home Casa Grande at Vermejo Park Ranch, or in one of its seven guest lodges, and you’ll be fishing and photographing amid short-grass prairie and alpine tundra mountains in the largest privately owned sprawl of land in the States — 590,000 acres of New Mexico, to be precise.

As an antidote to our modern-technologyriddled lives, it’s time to prescribe off-the-grid hideaways that are a galaxy away from our home lives of scrolling through smartphones while watching TV. Multi-screening is proven to affect our ability to think deeply and concentrate.

Restore equilibrium while meditating at Onar in Greece, a two-hour ferry ride from Athens or switch off at Australia’s Lizard Island Resort where its white-sand beaches get zero reception.

Where better to unplug than El Silencio Lodge in Costa Rica? Having a name which means ‘silence’ in Spanish is a good indication of the tranquillity that awaits as you follow riverside hiking trails through waterfalls. At Vana in Dehradun there’s a policy of no phones and no social media at all so you surrender and totally tune into your two-weekminimum stay. And that’s worth shouting about.

Vana operates a ‘no phones’ policy

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Island

legacy

Turning back the clock on 250 years, these luxury resorts are reviving the Seychelles’ most pristine wilderness as they fuse exclusivity with conservation Words: LJ Burill

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arrive at North Island by speedboat. On approach I see swathes of dense rainforest clinging to granite slopes and sparkling white sand shores backed by coconut trees, before the managers Jonathan and Jeroen come into view, waving with their arm outstretched, welcoming us to their island paradise.

Proving true from the first moment to the island’s barefoot living philosophy, I step off of the boat into

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the warm turquoise sea. “Good! You’re not wearing a watch,” Jonathan says warmly, “You won’t need one here.” On North Island you can forget about the time – there really is no schedule to live by.

This small granitic island, which is one of the Seychelles’ 45 inner islands, may seem pristine now, but it hasn’t always been this way. A former coconut plantation, it’s the conservation work that’s gone into returning the habitat to its original state »

North Island is a popular honeymoon destination for society’s elite, and for good reason

that we can thank this paradise for. Taking on the name Noah’s Ark, this project saw the complete rehabilitation of the island’s natural habitat with the on-going reintroduction of critically endangered local Seychelles species.

Now North Island is home to endemic birds such as the endearing Seychelles white eye, flashes of red can be seen owing to the introduction of the Madagascar fody and well over 100 Aldabra giant tortoises, some of which are believed to be 165, now have a home here. Green and hawksbill turtles nest on the island’s shores and the surrounding waters provide the opportunity to snorkel over thriving reef as spotted eagle rays glide by.

A little before sundown I meet Elliot Mokhobo for a guided walk along one of the island’s panoramic trails. Elliot has been on North Island since work on the sustainable resort began, first in the construction of the villas and with the island’s conservation, and now as a passionate guide who leads guests along rainforest trails with unrivalled knowledge of the wildlife here. It’s clear that Elliot takes pride in revealing the ancient tortoises’ personalities – one of the oldest, Brutus, seems content in having his head stroked, while Patrick, who’s around the same age, is apparently known for his moody disposition – and an uncanny ability to take guests to turtles’ nesting sites at just the right time.

While North Island has established a reputation as one of Seychelles’ most exclusive locations, the newest private island to arrive on the scene is Six Senses Zil Pasyon on Félicité. Fittingly named ‘island of passion’, Zil Pasyon is another resort that’s endeavouring to lay down a legacy for future generations by returning the habitat to its most pristine state.

Steve Hill is the ecologist behind this ambitious project having arrived here a decade ago after completing his work in rehabilitating nearby Fregate Island. On the third of Félicité that’s coming close to completion, in excess of 40,000 indigenous trees have already been planted, with plans to reintroduce the birds that were originally here, along with a number of

Sustainability is fundamental on North Island

Protecting endangered species is a key part of North Island’s conservation work

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TRAVEL

ZIL PASYON IS ENDEAVOURING TO

LAY DOWN A LEGACY FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS BY RETURNING THE HABITAT TO ITS MOST PRISTINE STATE

Six Senses Zil Pasyon is the Seychelles’ newest private island

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Seychelles terrapins and a small population of giant Aldabra tortoises.

We cross the divide between the developed part of the island and the thick, largely inaccessible, wilderness, hiking along a rainforest trail up a steep granite slope to the sound of insects, bird song and distant waves rolling in. “All of this vegetation needs to be taken away so we can replant the indigenous species,” Steve says pointing to the invasive plants that make it impossible for endemic plant life to grow.

“Taking a degraded piece of the world and turning it into something pristine and beautiful is the most satisfying thing you can do. Once the island has been returned to its original state, this will be the number one eco-resort in the world.”

By following the meandering trail, clambering over rocks and ducking beneath unfurling palm leaves we eventually arrive at a grove of coco de mer trees.

Shrouded in legend owing to their erotically shaped female seeds and male catkins, coco de mer boast the biggest seeds in the plant kingdom as well as some of the largest leaves, making them one of nature’s great spectacles. Placing the grove at the heart of his plans, Steve hopes to create a network of hiking trails here, leading guests down to the coast and the resort’s organic garden, while keeping the habitat’s rehabilitation the number one priority. “To me it’s a real privilege to be in and responsible for such a remarkable place,” he enthuses, “By the time we’re finished it will be truly unspoilt.”

Of course it’s not just the private islands that are paving the way in luxury eco tourism. Banyan Tree lies within Mahé’s verdant Takamaka region, overlooking one of the Seychelles’ most idyllic beaches, Anse Intendance, on an elevated patch of land once owned

by Peter Sellers and George Harrison. Now natural wood villas are positioned on the granite slopes with a colonial style mansion at the resort’s heart.

Built around rainforest and some of the biggest wetlands in Mahé, the resort works in partnership with the Marine Conservation Society, which has a conservation centre on the grounds. The society’s wildlife rescue and rehabilitation efforts are based here, enabling guests to get involved by setting out on guided wetland walks, taking part in turtle monitoring and joining beach patrols to see the turtles nesting.

In recent years, the Seychelles government has shown recognition of the importance in conserving the island nation’s unique environment. These three resorts unequivocally prove the integral role luxury tourism is playing in this journey. »

North Island

Set between the jungle and the shoreline, North Island’s villas offer a return to nature

One of the Indian Ocean’s most exclusive private islands – the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, and the Clooneys both honeymooned here – North Island has just 11 palatial villas tucked into the rainforest backing the shores.

What really makes the island stand out though is the experience the staff provides. Savour sunset cocktails on a deserted stretch of beach, tuck into grilled lobster under the stars and venture out on the island’s yacht to snorkel and dive. north-island.com

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TRAVEL Contemporary design meets nature at Six Senses Zil Pasyon

Six Senses Zil Pasyon Combining natural materials with contemporary design, each of the villas here is positioned on the steep mountainside for uninterrupted views out to sea from sprawling terraces and private infinity pools. Since the resort opened in 2016 it has attracted particular attention for its spa, which is stunningly built around giant granite boulders, while the main pool and collection of restaurants and cocktail and rum bars lie invitingly on the waterfront. sixsenses.com

Step from your room onto the beach at Banyan Tree Seychelles

Banyan Tree Seychelles Banyan Tree is distinguished by its colonial style beachfront mansion and surrounding verdant beauty where frangipani and hibiscus flowers bloom amid thick forest. Explore by bicycle, set out on excursions by boat and retreat to the tranquillity of Banyan Tree Spa before dining on award-winning Thai cuisine at signature restaurant Saffron or Creole specialties at Chez Lamar. banyantree.com

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Sen Wellness is a sanctuary for the mind, body and soul

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BEACHSIDE

bliss

Tempus checks in to the Sen Wellness Sanctuary in Sri Lanka Words: Vineetha Menon

T

he path to wellness is never easy, and neither is the makeshift road that leads to Sen Wellness Sanctuary. Located about an hour’s drive from Mattala airport in the south, scenes of Sri Lankan town life whizz past, giving way to rolling greenscapes dotted with wildlife. Following a mud path that weaves next to wild trees, you’ll soon arrive – albeit a bit apprehensively – at a giant colonial-style wooden door.

It opens to paradise.

Founder Dr Sam Kankanamge designed the Sen Wellness Sanctuary to be a place to nourish the mind, body and soul. The talented osteopath, who left Sri Lanka when he was just 18, is already a celebrated name in London.

Today, drawing on his professional background, love for his country and a strong network of family and friends, his homeland sanctuary is a dream come true.

Voted one of the top 20 yoga retreats in the world by The Times, the chic sanctuary remains untouched by growing praise; a name whispered in awe among holisticminded circles. It’s nestled in a pristine national park and its premises boast a protected turtle nesting beach as well as picture-perfect lagoon. With a giant statue of Buddha at the courtyard and a curiously circular layout, the sanctuary is as impressive as the setting. The seafresh breeze fills every rounded nook and cranny, including the communal dining area and expansive yoga shala with inspiring views overlooking lush treetops, swinging monkeys and a flurry of birds.

The sanctuary’s luxury cabanas, designed by BrazilianAmerican architect Adriana Arbex, are a lesson in harmonious nature-inspired minimalism. With charming thatched roofs, the cabanas also feature private terraces bathed in sunlight, bathrooms that are open to the elements and a zen-like decor that champions local craftsmanship and materials. »

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Once guests check-in, they schedule a consultation with the in-house Ayurvedic doctor, Dr Harshi. A powerhouse of knowledge, this demure woman plays the role of medical psychic and agony aunt perfectly. Ayurveda is a centuries-old science that originated in India, literally translating from Sanskrit as the ‘science of life’. Key concepts of the ancient healthcare tradition refer to a sense of interconnectedness, body constitutions (dosha) and existing lifestyles that collectively influence a person’s health and wellbeing.

Coming from a long line of healers, Dr Harshi is able to pinpoint ailments in a few minutes, and offers herbal-based solutions and life advice with such remarkable ease that it’s forgivable to think this is all one big new-age prank. Sure, the daily herbal medicines range from being quite palatable to downright confusing. Yes, the Ayurvedic ‘treatments’ can involve massages in the buff. And, of course, there is a one-love hippy vibe through every yoga session. But, make no mistake, this sanctuary will change your life.

In between Ayurvedic treatments, dining on fabulous Sri Lankan fare and twice-daily yoga sessions, stays are interspersed with visiting nearby towns, watching turtles, taking cooking lessons, and letting the healing power of nature work its magic. You’ll meet people from all corners of the globe – some who are experienced yogis and others who consider downward dog an instruction for pets. They are all here to slow down, reflect and re-energise.

On my first night at Sen Wellness Sanctuary, we all nervously bonded over a love of life and coconut-based stirfrys. As the days passed, we were all smiling and sharing stories as we dipped in and out of treatment rooms, glowing with vibrancy – and a lot of herbal oil. By the end of our stay, we were all inexplicably united.

Strip away the stunning setting and luxurious cabanas, and you’re still left with a truly lifeenhancing experience. senwellnesssanctuary.com

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TRAVEL The luxury cabins are a lesson in nature-inspired minimalism

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Awakening a

LEGEND Tempus travels beyond Bora Bora to reconnect with mother nature in Tahiti Words: Rachel Ingram

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he legend goes that Tahiti didn’t start life as an island, but as a giant mountain-sized octopus, raised from the depths of the ocean to protect her people. The magical eight-armed creature was, according to one myth, a manifestation of Kanaloa, god of the sea, who, during a mighty battle with invadoers, taught the local people about the power of unity. When victory was theirs, the octopus transformed into a sacred mountain where she remains to this day, a symbol of peace.

While there are countless fables and endless versions of such stories, some more far-fetched than others, what’s certain is that these legends form an integral part of local culture. Tahiti is a magical island where you can almost feel the pulse of mother nature running through the earth, and locals are passionate about protecting their beautiful environment. And for good reason. 

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Unless you’re travelling by private jet, French Polynesia isn’t the easiest place to get to. Three flights took me via Paris and LA to Tahiti where a warm welcome by a local band on the edge of the runway dissolved my fatigue in a heartbeat. As we pass through security and enter the capital of Papeete (pronounced Pap-e-ete – local dialect makes a point of enunciating every letter), we walk out into a haze of music, aroma and colour, and flowers are looped around our necks. This level of joyful hospitality continues throughout our stay as we’re gifted flower necklaces upon arriving at every new resort and a chain of shells as we leave. We quickly discover that flowers are a big deal in French Polynesia. All the women, and many of the men, wear them behind their ears on a daily basis – behind your right ear if you’re single and your left if you’re married.

Rangiroa French Polynesia is famously known for the party haven of Bora Bora and the exclusivity of The Brando, but there’s much more to discover if you look a little closer. Take Rangiroa. An hour’s flight from Tahiti, this tiny speck in the South Pacific is home to just two resorts, the most luxurious of which is Hotel Kia Ora Hotel & Spa. Before landing, my breath was taken away by the colours of the ocean – brighter than the Maldives and bolder than the Seychelles.

Arriving at the resort, I continued to be impressed. Luxury bungalows with private plunge pools pepper a verdant tropical garden that lies adjacent to a white sandy beach, lined with palm trees. The view of the ocean, where the palest of blues blends into turquoise and then navy, is interrupted only a number of elegant wooden overwater villas in the style of the wooden main house, which features a restaurant, a bar, a water sports centre and a communal infinity pool – enjoy the best view of sunset from the water’s edge, cocktail in hand.

In the restaurant, chefs cook up a storm of fresh seafood and international cuisine with prominent French touches – French Polynesia was colonialised by France, after all. Once a week after dinner, guests are treated to a unique taste of local culture, a traditional dance. Villagers of all ages came together to host a colourful performance involving lots of singing, clapping, leg wagging (the men) and hip shaking (the women). As elderly women provide the melody and children jostle with teenagers for their moment in the spotlight, it’s clear the whole community has come together. But this is typical of charming Rangiroa.

Besides tourism, the island’s main source of income is pearl farming. At Gauguin’s Pearl Farm, visitors can tour the facilities and learn first hand how the impressively large pearls are cultivated over up to six years. Visitors can also purchase a VAT-free pearls in a range of sizes, colours and grades at the on-site shop.

The clear waters surrounding Rangiroa are perfect for water sports, as we’d discover from a scuba diving session with Topdive.

In fact, it’s one of the most popular bases for diving in all of French Polynesia thanks to the warm waters’ abundance of dolphins, manta rays and sharks.

If you’d rather stay above sea level, a boat trip with Oviri Excursions takes you deep into the heart of the lagoon where friendly reef sharks play in the waves. As we feasted on freshly caught seafood BBQ on the beach of our own private island, I thought, how could this experience be beaten? It turns out, in Tahiti, every island has its own charms.

Rangiroa’s clear waters make it easy to spot the local sealife

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TRAVEL

Hotel Kia Ora Hotel & Spa

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Moorea

Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa

The second stop on our island-hopping itinerary was Moorea, the place where people from the more modernised Tahiti come to get away from it all. Here, locals live a more basic, simple way of life that focuses on their ever-important connection to nature.

For visitors, however, all the creature comforts they desire can be found at the island’s leading hotel resorts. There’s a plethora of options to choose from, from the stunning Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa, which is home to some of the most incredible private overwater villas on the island, to locally-owned properties such as Manava Moorea Resort, where a sparkling infinity pool blends into the ocean.

It was at the latter where we met Sam, a Polynesian guide who gave us a real insight into local life. After a morning of traditional net fishing, we drove to his house – which he built from scratch by hand – where his wife cooked our fresh catches, while Sam proudly showed us around his garden where he was growing an incredible array of produce. As we sat around the table and ate, his wife, originally from New Zealand, explained how she had become so captivated by Moorea on a holiday that she ended up staying – and it was easy to see why. While it was tempting to revel in the simple life for longer, it was on to our third and final stop, Tahiti.

Tahiti Drive along Tahiti’s coastline and you’ll quickly realise that it’s the most urbanised island in French Polynesia. With a busy marina, myriad shopping opportunities, and a host of dining options – a highlight is fine dining French eatery L’Instant Present – there’s much to discover.

From our base at the commendable Le Méridien Tahiti, we were able to explore the whole island easily – a personal highlight included a phenomenal Topdive whale watching trip where we threw caution to the wind (as is the Tahiti way) and jumped in with the sea life to snorkel with a mother and baby humpback whale.

We also took a day trip journey into the heart of the island. It was here where we were introduced to the ‘real’ Tahiti, a place free from the reach of modernity, where mother nature is queen. Winding roads led us on a journey through jungle and dormant volcanos, where we sampled fresh vegetation and learned all about the ways of the land. It was such an eye-opening experience that we were left speechless as our guide Teuai talked us through the power of the earth and our eternal connection to nature.

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TRAVEL

IT WAS HERE WHERE WE WERE INTRODUCED TO THE ‘REAL’ TAHITI, A PLACE FREE FROM THE REACH OF MODERNITY, WHERE

MOTHER NATURE IS QUEEN

As French Polynesia is so far from the UK, its islands haven’t always been the obvious choice for British tourists but the release of hit Disney movie Moana, based on one of the many Polynesian legend, has drawn the world’s eye to the archipelago.

And while the modern Tahiti isn’t quite how it used to be, it was refreshing to see the pull of nature still keeping everyone’s feet on the ground. So, before you go booking flights to Bora Bora, consider looking elsewhere into the archipelago, and seeing what other myths and legends you can find in the magical world of Tahiti, Moorea and Rangiroa. tahititourisme.uk Fly to Tahiti with Air Tahiti Nui

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Next level

LIVING Set in St Lucia’s hills, Jade Mountain is a gem of a place

Words: Chris Jones

W

hat does lionfish taste like? In truth, this isn’t something I’d ever previously considered. It’s not a menu item on any of the London restaurants I regularly visit. A recent stay at the spectacular Jade Mountain resort in St Lucia, however, gave me the answer. Reader, it’s delicious.

First, a bit of background. Lionfish, although stunning to look at, are generally bad news.

Carnivorous, venomous and invasive, they have moved in from the Pacific and multiplied rapidly in the Caribbean Sea. The chefs at Jade Mountain resort, then, are mounting a defence by turning the tables – so the hunter is hunted – and serving up their flaky, buttery fillets as a succulent alternative to the more traditional snapper and other reef fish.

And so, as my partner and I enjoyed an impressive lionfish tasting menu at this stunning resort, we could comfortably say that we were doing our bit for the ecology of the planet. This kind of armchair activism seemed entirely inkeeping with the laid-back nature of the island of St Lucia itself.

The hotel is the realisation of the vision of owner architect Nick Troubestkoy, who’s created something that I’d wager is unlike any other hotel you’ve ever stayed in. Found at the end of an unassuming track on the outskirts of the archetypal St Lucian seaside town, Soufriere, even the approach is captivating. »

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As you travel further and higher, round every bend and pothole, you start to get a sense of a complete escape to another world. And that feeling is confirmed as you are greeted at the discrete entrance.

Jade Mountain sits high above its sister resort, Anse Chastanet, bordered on one side by the glistening Caribbean Sea, and built into the luscious rainforest. As I take in the backdrop of the twin Piton mountains, I find myself struggling to recall a more breathtaking location.

The place feels like a tropical James Bond set, comprising a spider’s web of walkways and columns draped in greenery and bright cerise flowers, with glass of all colours glistening against the sky. Revolutionary architecture and natural beauty blur seamlessly to create a unique island hotel experience.

The walkways lead to the ‘sanctuaries’ and it becomes clear as you enter why the word ‘room’, or even ‘suite’, is inadequate. With just 24 sanctuaries at the resort, you feel like a truly valued guest – helped by a staff to guest ratio of three to one. There is also a major domo (head butler, trained by the British Guild of Butlers) on hand should you require their services.

Our ‘sanctuary’ offered a phenomenal view of the Pitons, framed by an open front, an expansive infinity pool, fauna and stone walls. The generous open plan layout felt extravagant yet relaxed, while the quality of local natural materials combined well with the finest fixtures and fittings.

And not an electronic device to be seen. Bliss.

While I’m rarely an early riser on holiday, this place demands you do it at least once – sitting by the infinity pool to watch the most beautiful of wake-up calls as the sun rose above the Pitons was one of the most memorable moments of my trip.

Tempting though it is to linger in those lovely rooms, you should also check out the private (and secret) beach, which offers brilliant diving and snorkelling in the clear blue water of the Caribbean Sea.

REVOLUTIONARY ARCHITECTURE AND NATURAL BEAUTY BLUR SEAMLESSLY TO CREATE A UNIQUE ISLAND HOTEL EXPERIENCE

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Attention to detail In the open-sided, low-lit restaurant at sunset, five courses of fresh seafood seemed entirely inkeeping with the enchanting, slightly otherworldly nature of the place. The moist, chunky texture of the lionfish proved to be versatile – my favourite being the fillet served with melt-in-the-mouth crispy pork belly, complemented by a 2009 Pinot Noir from Russian River Valley – just one of several well selected wines for each course.

It’s the little things, though, that make this place extraordinary. On learning that our departure time coincided with the gift shop closing for a lunch break, for example, our host opened it up so we could purchase the glass artwork we’d had our eye on.

With these sort of exacting standards, plus a setting that’s like nowhere on the planet, I would return in a heartbeat. So guys, let me know if that lionfish problem really gets out of hand. I’m ready to do my bit. jademountain.com

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After the

STORM

Just a few months after hurricanes shook the Caribbean, its islands are bouncing back Words: Nigel Tisdall

W Villa Marie

Villa Marie

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hile hurricanes are nothing new to the Caribbean – the word most likely derives from hurakán, meaning “god of the storm” in the language of the indigenous Taíno people – the two that struck this much-loved region in close succession last autumn were a nasty blow. The good news is that over 70% of these balmy islands were unaffected by the Category Five hurricanes Irma and Maria, including such favourite winter sun escapes as Barbados, Jamaica, St Lucia and Grenada.

As every business guru will tell you, setbacks are also opportunities. It's impressive how the islands that took a hit have responded, with residents and governments pulling together to get things back on track for the peak winter season. One example is Anguilla, the tiny British Overseas Territory that boasts some of the most mesmerising white sand beaches in the world. Last September it was being ravaged by 185mph winds, yet just a month later officials announced the island was not only open for business but that they would use this calamity as a chance to extend the airport runway in order to welcome larger aircraft.

Caribbean hoteliers have taken a similar bullish approach, although it will be several months before some top luxury resorts, with their impeccable standards, can re-open. In the British Virgin Islands, Sir Richard Branson's Necker Island will remain closed until October while Peter Island Resort won't open before December.

And there is a clear determination to come back stronger and better. “The future is very bright,” affirmed Stephane Zaharia, general manager of Anguilla's CuisinArt Golf Resort & Spa, where the rebuilding will see the addition of several new rooms “with all bells and whistles.”

On the super-chic French island of St Barts, some of the first establishments to re-open – naturellement – were its gourmet restaurants. By mid-December boutique hotel Villa Marie St-Barth was once again serving foie gras and quenelle de mérou soufflée, while its rooms are set to open in March. “Incredible solidarity has been driving the island during the past few months,” reports Fabrice Moizan, general manager of the celebrated Eden Rock-St Barths hotel. While this prestigious property won't be welcoming guests till late 2018, its companion villa rental service is already back in full swing. Devotees of the island's Le Sereno Hotel will have an equally long wait, but Samy Ghachem, its managing director, is promising “an even higher level of luxury including a new restaurant and wellness facilities.” »

Jumby Bay

Silversands

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TRAVEL Out on the glistening waves, the return to normality has been helped by the fact that boats are less dependent on shoreside facilities than hotels and resorts. “Everyone within the superyacht community – owners, crews, charterers, brokers, service providers and so on – has pledged to support the islands,” said Alev Karagulle from Burgess. The global brokerage reports that “an encouragingly high number of vessels have committed to the Caribbean season this winter,” while Sacha Williams at luxury yacht charter specialists Camper & Nicholsons said “the marinas in Antigua and The Bahamas busier than ever.”

Such confidence is striking, and the long-term appeal of the Caribbean with its heady marriage of sunshine, warmth, tropical beaches and vivid cultures – not to mention hit-the-spot rum punches – has not gone away. Before the hurricanes passed through the region was doing record business with annual tourism growing at 4.9% – higher than the global average – a buoyancy reflected in the huge investments the luxury travel industry is making here.

It is significant that well-known hotel brands are seeking a larger footprint in the Caribbean – Park Hyatt recently unveiled its first property in the islands on St Kitts, Oetker Collection has acquired Jumby Bay Island in Antigua while Belmond Cap Juluca will open in Anguilla late next year.

Independent initiatives, such as the much-anticipated debut of Silversands Grenada in March, which will boast the longest swimming pool in the region, are equally impressive.

Without doubt, the Caribbean and its beautiful islands will be visited by more hurricanes, but that's not going to stop us enjoying fabulous holidays there. Soon after Hurricane Irma struck the British Virgin Islands, Diane Wildenstein, owner of the exclusive getaway Valley Trunk on Virgin Gorda, sent out a heartfelt message that said it all: “The Virgin Islanders are proud, strong, very interconnected and resilient people. Trees grow back, boats can be replaced, from the ashes, roses grow.”

Jumby Bay

St Kitts

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Irish

charm This Valentine’s Day, discover the power of love at Ballyfin, the most lavish country house in the Emerald Isle Words: Shaun Prince

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E

ver since Downton Abbey hit our screens in 2010, exposing the glamorous world of 20th century British aristocracy, stately homes have received a renewed burst of interest from travellers. But England isn’t the only place one can discover magnificent manor houses. Deep in the rolling countryside of the Republic of Ireland, visitors with a penchant for history can find Ballyfin, a five-star country house hotel located in a historic family residence. Awarded the accolade for the world’s best hotel in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards in 2016, the manor continues to carry the same prestige as it did in its heyday, thanks to the devotees who restored it to its former glory.

The estate of Ballyfin, located at the foot of the Slieve Bloom Mountains, was originally founded as the ancestral seat of the wealthy O’More family, followed by the Crosbies, the Poles, the Wellesley-Poles – the family of the Duke of

Wellington, and finally, the Cootes. It was the Cootes who, in the 1820s, built the house as it currently stands, in late Georgian style.

In the dawn of the Irish Independence, the estate was sold and turned into a boarding school, which it remained for most of the 20th century. Then, in 2002, it was purchased by a wealthy businessman. He originally intended to keep it for himself, but, in order to sustain the upkeep of the building and preserve it for future generations, the decision was made to tranform it into a hotel. The manor underwent an eightyear restoration and, in 2011, it re-opened to the public for the first time, as Ballyfin, the country house hotel.

Arriving at Ballyfin, which is just 90 minutes by car from Dublin, is like stepping back in time. The manor is home to 20 uniquely-designed bedrooms, each of which has the ambience of a private residence, despite being in a hotel. The reception rooms, which are open to all guests, »

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are decorated in a traditional yet classic fashion, with fine art adorning the walls. The Coote family coat-of-arms stands proudly at the entrance, giving an honourable nod to times past.

The sprawling 614-acre estate within which the house sits provides ample opportunity for entertainment, from fishing on the 28-acre lake to clay pigeon shooting. Falconry was a particularly interesting experience during our visit – it was incredible to watch majestic Harris hawks fly over our heads, swooping so low we could almost feel the wind beneath their wings before they landed on the trainer’s gloves.

While the grounds of Ballyfin were undeniably magnificent, my highlight was the people. The hotel’s team were very much hands on, giving a personalised approach to every single guest.

Interestingly, many of the staff were locals – some even attended the school that once laid claim to the estate. One man we spoke to was a local carpenter who helped with the restoration. He fell so deeply in love with the house that when the house reopened, he returned and now holds the prestigious position of head butler.

Another person of note is head chef Sam Moody, a Michelin starred British chef who, since his arrival in 2016, has transformed Ballyfin’s restaurant into an excellent gastronomic hotspot.

After just two days at this country escape, the stresses of city life are guaranteed to melt away. As for the time of year that best suits a visit, this depends on personal preference. Winter with its cosy fires and snow-topped trees has just as much charm as summer with its verdant gardens and bubbling streams. Ballyfin is also an excellent option for a Valentine’s getaway with a partner this February. While Ballyfin is certainly a romantic destination, its charm lies not just in its beauty but in its history and the love that the locals have put into preserving this magnificent manor. ballyfin.com

THE SPRAWLING

614-ACRE ESTATE

WITHIN WHICH THE HOUSE SITS PROVIDES AMPLE OPPORTUNITY FOR ENTERTAINMENT, FROM FISHING ON THE 28-ACRE LAKE TO CLAY PIGEON SHOOTING

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TRAVEL

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One step

AHEAD High-end travel agencies offer luxury connoisseurs the chance to create a totally tailored travel experience

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s unique, tailor-made experiences become the holy grail of travel, holidays are no longer about ticking destinations off a bucket list but unique encounters and personalised itineraries.

This is becoming the norm particularly within the luxury travel world, where travellers are opting to board private planes to access remote locations or hire local guides for exclusive insights into a destination. One way to take the hassle out of planning a trip such as this is working with a travel consultant such as Neil Pirie, founder of Generation Travel Group, an agency specialising in fully tailor-made holidays for discerning travellers.

Tempus speaks to Pirie about what high-end travel agencies can offer luxury connoisseurs around the world.

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TRAVEL

Tempus: In a market that’s dominated by online travel portals, what are the benefits of using a high-end travel agency such as yours?

Neil Pirie: All of the luxury travel services I offer are free – there is no membership required or hidden cost.

By working with me and my agency, I evaluate your needs and expectations, taking into account your likes and dislikes, and am able to understand exactly what will suit you best. Whatever the occasion, all clients receive a personalised, dedicated one-to-one service throughout the entire travel experience.

are accustomed to receiving personalised care in their own lives, so why should it be any different when on holiday? Me and my team will ensure they’ll receive the same level of attention they’d expect in their normal lives, if not more so.

Returning customers are a big part of my business and that’s something I am extremely proud of. One couple, for example, are currently planning to stay at each Banyan Tree property around the world following the consistent level of service they receive at each.

What are some of the most exciting, or complex, trips you've planned?

What is your particular area of expertise?

I am in a very unique position where I specialise in creating bespoke luxury travel experiences. I tailormake all elements of a client’s travel arrangements.

This can include flights, private aviation and helicopters, transfers, luxury accommodation, private guided tours and excursions, exclusive VIP experiences, and much more. Whether my clients are holidaying with family, travelling for business or hosting an important client, I can excite them with original travel opportunities.

What do you do that people can’t do themselves?

Trips such as the ones I plan are time-consuming to organise, and time is something that most of my clients simply don’t have. After an initial consultation, I tailor make an itinerary featuring the finest hotels and the most exciting destinations and experiences in the world, which I present to my client with an assortment of options to choose. Fundamentally, I save them time and offer them a travel solution they may not have previously considered.

Who is your typical clientele?

Most of my clients are wealthy travel enthusiasts with large disposable incomes who don’t have time to plan trips themselves. My clients tend to have a certain expectation of service as many of them

One very discerning group recently engaged with me for a family trip across Australia. This involved a mixture of private and commercial aviation, with party members arriving and departing at various times from multiple international locales. The five-week trip featured multiple elements of accommodation and flights, a series of guided and non-escorted tours, an exciting sailing trip to the Whitsundays, and much more.

It was complex to organise but it was a great success.

In the early summer 2018, one family will experience an Arctic sailing expedition where they’ll witness one of the largest populations of polar bears in their natural environment as part of a tailor-made trip.

Can you explain more about your new partnership with Tempus?

We recognise that readers of Tempus have an affiliation with luxury. We also appreciate that there’s a need to make the experience of organising travel arrangements as easy as possible. As I am a standalone provider of luxury tailor-made travel, I can easily and effectively connect readers with the experiences that are featured within the magazine. If you read about something that you like, I will immediately facilitate for you to enjoy the same and managing the process, catering to your specific travel requirements. generationtravelgroup.com

To enquire about organising any of the trips featured in this issue of Tempus, contact Neil Pirie by email: travelexpert@tempusmagazine.co.uk, or phone: +44 (0) 1252 376509

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S T Y L E ALL THE TIME IN THE WORLD OUT OF THE ORDINARY THE STYLISH TRAVELLER ON THE EDGE

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60 - 63 64 - 65

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FROM WORLD TIME WATCHES TO VALENTINE’S JEWELLERY, HERE’S HOW TO START THE NEW YEAR IN VOGUE

All the

TIME

in the world The perfect marrying of form and function, we celebrate some of the best world time watches on the market Words: Scott Manson

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STYLE

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world time watch doesn’t just look good, it’s also a useful tool for any globe-hopping ‘citizen of the world’.

When you have properties and businesses in multiple countries, knowing the precise time in various cities at a glance is intrinsically useful. Also, and let’s be honest here, world time watches are seriously sexy bits of kit.

The horological know-how that goes in to making a world time ‘complication’ is in the upper echelons of the watchmaker’s skillset, with some accounting for all 37 time zones. The dial quality of the best watches alone – which is an object lesson in combining clarity and beauty – makes the admittedly high prices for these pieces worth every penny. Here are some of the very best, and latest, on the market. »

Chopard Platinum LUC Time Traveller A 42mm case houses an in-house movement, visible through the caseback, with a 60-hour power reserve. Available in steel and rose gold, our model of choice is the platinum edition, which features a beautiful bluey-green dial. Refined yet rugged, this is a watch with poise and elegance. » chopard.com

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Montblanc Heritage Spirit Orbis Terrarum This is a beautiful and, at around £5k, surprisingly affordable addition to the world time stable. Available in stainless steel or rose gold, this 41mm piece features 24 time zones in surprisingly legible fashion. In the centre of the dial is a piece of sapphire crystal that displays the continents when viewed from the North Pole, with the oceans picked out in striking blue. Well worth seeking out. montblanc.com

Vacheron Constantin Overseas World Timer Versatile, useful and comfortable, this looks as good in a boardroom as it does on a boat. With three choices of dial on offer, and easily interchangeable straps, this hand-finished marvel also showcases a neat rotatable world map in the centre of the dial, helping you to see city time at a glance. The watch has also passed the stringent Geneva Hallmark standard – one of watchmaking’s toughest tests.

It retails at £40,000, but you get a lot of watch for the money. vacheron-constantin.com

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STYLE

Jaeger-LeCoultre Geophysic Tourbillon Universal Time Part of the brand’s brilliant Geophysic collection, this is the first world timer with a flying tourbillon which, although big, doesn’t interfere with the dial functionality. It’s full of lovely detail, like the open waters of the map covered by wave-like guilloche decoration.

Exclusively available in platinum, this 43.5mm watch is limited to 100 pieces, priced around £120,000. »

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Louis Vuitton Escale Time Zone 39 Colour us happy. This distinctive, eye-catching piece might come from a fashion house, but it’s a serious bit of a kit nonetheless. Smart and well-designed, it’s powered by a decent ETA movement and looks like no other world timer on the market. Horological purists might sniff at it, but those who want a great 24 time zone watch at a reasonable price (around £5000) should seek it out. Looks great against a dark suit, too. uk.louisvuitton.com

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STYLE

Patek Philippe 5930G world time chronograph One of the flagship complications from arguably the world’s most renowned watchmaker was never going to be anything other than brilliant. And when it launched at Baselworld 2016, the watch nerds at the Patek Philippe booth made a beeline for this model – a self-winding flyback chronograph with worldtimer. Easy to wear and easy to read, it’s a contemporary take on Patek’s world time collection and a very practical traveller’s timepiece. A handstitched alligator strap completes this handsome watch. patek.com

De Bethune World Traveller It’s all about the detail with this wonderfully well finished watch.

From the home time indicator that comprises a sphere of two halves in pink gold and blued steel to the variety of treatments on the dial itself. The chapter ring has a matte, grained finish, while the cities disc showcases a beautiful concentric guilloche. Flip it over and through the case back you can see a titanium balance with white gold weights and a polished balance bridge. This is a highly legible and highly covetable timepiece. debethune.ch

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Out of the

ORDINARY Words: Zoe Dickens

While you may be tempted by the usual suspects on Valentine’s Day, these extraordinary brands will help you think outside of the little blue box this February with these stunning alternative jewellery pieces

Van Cleef & Arpels L’Amour collection © Sonia Sieff

W

hatever your thoughts on Valentine’s Day – and it can’t be denied that it is derided by as many as it is adored – if you’re coupled up then you simply can’t ignore it. And, when it comes to buying a gift, it’s the perfect time to look past the heart-shaped chocolates and red roses to find something unusual and thoughtful to be treasured for years to come. Jewellery is the ideal solution but, if your knowledge only carries you as far as a (somewhat cliché) Tiffany & Co bracelet, read on for inspiring fine jewels guaranteed to impress.

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STYLE

Van Cleef & Arpels The secret to a strong relationship relies in the shared memories and inside secrets known only to the two of you and it was with this in mind that Parisian fine jewellery house Van Cleef & Arpels set about creating its latest high-jewellery collection, Le Secret. Each piece in this astoundingly intricate range moves or transforms so, for example, the diamond petals of a floral brooch may turn to reveal personalised love messages or a ruby bow held in the clutches of a dove may be inscribed with the legend ‘L’Amour’ somewhere known only to the receiver and gift giver.

For Valentine’s Day, however, it seems only fitting to choose the Amour Retrouvé transformable earrings. Comprised of four separate diamond and sapphire pieces, the dazzling chandelier earrings can be reconfigured into both a set of smaller earrings and a heart-shaped brooch, combining three outstanding pieces into one unforgettable gift. vancleefarpels.com

Jessica McCormack If this is your first Valentine’s Day as a married couple, or you’re considering an eternity ring but haven’t found the right piece, then Jessica McCormack’s pioneering party jackets may be just the thing. Designed to fit around a woman’s existing solitaire ring – or available as a set with a new solitaire – McCormack’s party jackets blend seamlessly with the original ring adding additional fine jewellery elements and turning traditional designs into statement party pieces. “The party jacket is about having fun, being creative and playful,” McCormack told us. “Clients love the idea of dressing up their rings and it’s amazing just how many women have a solitaire in their jewellery boxes that they would love to enhance a little – or a lot.” » jessicamccormack.com

Jessica McCarmack’s ‘party jacket’ rings can be worn together or separately, depending on the occasion

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Moussaieff Coloured diamonds are back in vogue in a big way thanks to the modern, more youthful spirit they bring to classic cuts and settings.

While the obvious choice may be something in a pretty shade of pink, yellow or blue, which all the big fine jewellery houses are currently offering in abundance, for something truly unique seek out a grey diamond.

“Pure grey diamonds have historically been primarily worn by men,” explained Alisa Moussaieff, matriarch of family-owned jeweller Moussaieff. “But recently, bluish grey and greyish blue diamonds have become hugely popular with woman – especially when mixed with complementary violet stones – thanks to the fact that they are a more affordable but no less beautiful alternative to blue diamonds.”

Possessing an intriguing depth and smoky hue while still retaining all the light reflecting sparkle of their more crystalline counterparts, select a stone a carat or two larger than she normally wears in a pear or emerald cut. The result? A hugely impressive gift that shows taste and style without tipping over into Elizabeth Taylor territory. moussaieff.co.uk

Forgo pink diamonds for something more unique with this 11.07-carat grey diamond ring from Moussaieff

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STYLE

G London Managed to find yourself that rare woman who finds little to love in sparkles and gemstones? Make G London your new go-to jeweller.

Founded over 25 years ago by eponymous designer Glenn Spiro, the jewellery house specialises in unusual, highly precious materials.

Think earrings in which dozens of vibrant cabochon turquoises are framed by tiny white diamond specks or a bracelet carved from ancient wood and zig-zagged with precious stones. Almost every piece to come from G London’s workshop is unique so if you see something you like it’s best not to hesitate – Spiro’s clients are loyal and visit often. Right now, the hot pick is this yellow gold bangle featuring two Mesopotamian Cornelian arrowhead elements dating from the first millennium BC, finished with coral beads and rose cut diamonds. glennspiro.com

Chaumet If flowers are your thing but you want to take your gift to the next level this year, look to Chaumet and its romantic Hortensia collection. While the offering includes everything from tiny floral stud earrings to sautoirs and even tiaras, the stars of the show are undoubtedly the Voie Lactee (blue) and Aube Rosée (pink) secret watches. Resembling a pretty corsage of diamond, sapphire, tourmaline, opal and chalcedony hortensias when closed, the bouquet opens to reveal a watch with a natural mother-of-pearl dial framed by white diamonds and finished with an elegant satin strap. chaumet.com

When the bouquet is closed, the timepiece transforms into a stunning jewellery piece with a hidden secret

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The stylish

TRAVELLER Going on a trip that combines business and pleasure?

Here’s a capsule wardrobe that has you covered Words: Scott Manson

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or those of us who aren’t international megastars, flying our entire wardrobe to whatever country we’re visiting isn’t really viable. And this can make dressing for a trip that includes work time and leisure time tricky.

From unexpected invitations to evening events, to an impromptu day at the beach, you need to get smart about looking smart. Here’s how.

First up, you need to invest in a few key pieces that all work together.

They don’t have to be the same colour – that’s a bit too ‘matchy’ – but they should complement each other and not contain patterns that will look

odd when mixed. Think about shades that work well together. Naturals, like chocolate, deep green and grey are always good. And you can’t go wrong with neutrals, such as stone, beige and taupe.

Let’s assume you’ve got a suit sorted, and several shirts in different colours, so your overall image will look different to most, even if you’re wearing the same suit that colleagues saw you in the day before. Add a couple of belts and a smart pair of shoes, and your workwear essentials are sorted. All that remains is your casual wear, all of which should easily fit into a carry-on bag.

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Classic Oxford cloth shirt

Smart dark denim

This is the shirt to rule them all. A stylish button down item that looks as good in a boardroom as it does at the beach. It pairs with almost anything and, crucial for travelling, doesn’t crease easily.

Go for slim, but not skinny, in a deep indigo blue. Looks great with shoes or trainers, and it’s a sufficiently rugged piece of clothing that the rough and tumble of travelling won’t unduly affect it. No man should travel anywhere without a good pair of jeans.

White crew neck T-shirt Never a scoop neck – far too boy band – and avoid a V-neck if you have lots of chest hair. Pocket-less is the classic style and, obviously, it should look out-of-the-box luminous white. Everyone suits a plain white T-shirt.

Crew neck sweatshirt Yes, a knitted light jumper is smarter, but a good sweatshirt strikes a sportier, more relaxed note and can be worn with trainers and shorts, or with chinos and a shirt.

An unstructured blazer No one wants to be ironing in their hotel room, so ensure you pack a lightweight, unstructured blazer in a fabric that doesn’t easily wrinkle.

Stripped of all the pomp and padding you find in a traditional blazer, these pieces are more relaxed and natural. Works well with your Oxford shirt or the white T-shirt.

Smart trainers Useful if you plan to exercise, and great for travelling even if you’re not. They should be fashionable, but also lightweight, comfortable and breathable.

Desert boots Like dark jeans, this is your go-to footwear. They look great with denim or chinos, pack easily and strike the right balance between smart and casual.

They were originally worn by British soldiers fighting in North Africa in WWII, so you know that they can take a beating. Plus they’re lightweight and very comfortable.

Swimming shorts Ideally ones that can double up as shorts. Orlebar Brown is a label to check.

And while you may not have planned to do any swimming, it pays to be prepared as an unexpected invite to a pool party (or, why not, a rooftop hot tub session) could come your way.

Packable pillow Granted, not a style item as such. However, no canny traveler should be without one. You never know when a flight might be cancelled and you end sleeping in an airport or when your daytime flight turns into an overnight redeye. Even if you don’t need it for sleep, it’s also useful as lumbar support on a long flight.

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On the

EDGE How Florian Kohlbecker became the architect of a new style of mountain skiing Words: Michelle Johnson

Handmade wooden skis are the musthave accessories on the slopes this season

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f your winter is incomplete until you've hit the slopes, you know just how crucial it is to have the right gear for your descent. It’s not enough to just pack a parka or stow your salopettes – looking the part is as much about function as it is form, and there's no reason your skis shouldn't be as unique as the rest of your trip.

One very stylish solution comes from architect Florian Kohlbecker, whose background in carpentry and engineering – and passion for freeride mountain skiing – has put him at the forefront of ski design. Kohlbecker founded Black Forest Skis in 2006 to answer the question of how to tailor skis to the most untouched slopes available, and his customised, handmade skis are some of the most exclusive money can buy. »

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“My love for skiing started in the army, where I was a mountain ranger, and I was entered into military ski competitions,” Kohlbecker said. “This is where I first discovered what is now heliskiing. We’d take detours in the chopper to find more remote peaks, which we’d race down.”

After his turn in the army, Kohlbecker trained as a carpenter before moving into engineering and architecture, becoming part of the third generation of his family to join Kohlbecker Black Forest Architects in Germany. His love of skiing took a back seat, until he became a test skier for a niche brand in the late 90s in Chamonix.

From there, his passions became more professionally linked.

“In 2008, we won the job to develop the Sochi Winter Olympics Ski Jump in Krasnaya Polyana and it made me realise I could combine my engineering background with my love for the sport – it was time to build some skis,” he said. Personally selecting 100% white ash wood, glass and carbon fibre, Kohlbecker developed his first collection of 15 handmade skis for Russian buyers impressed by his work at Sochi. The following year, he made 100, and the company has been growing ever since.

“I was so pleased with those first 15 skis, and the reaction I received from my customers. Since then we have partnered with professional skiers, customised skis for a professional heliski tour of Georgia and Iran, and produced collections for Monkey 47 Gin and Rigby’s. Every year it gets a little bit bigger.”

“The key is that these are not mass-produced skis,” he explained.

“Each pair is handmade with materials selected by hand, so I can check every piece of wood used on every pair of skis. The materials we use are the best of the best, adding carbon fibre and glass before edging the skis with stainless steel.”

One of the most exciting aspects of Kohlbecker's handmade skis is the option to engineer them entirely to your body – height, weight, balance and form. “Most mass-produced skis come in specific lengths and a standard flexibility. This is fine for most onpiste skiing, but when you get onto more difficult or demanding slopes, you need skis that can handle well.

“When we create fully tailored skis, we measure a person's height and weight to determine the length and flexibility required – for instance a professional sportsperson like a boxer might have a heavier weight to their height, and need stiffer skis that aren't available on the market, or vice versa – but we also analyse their form,” he said. “Where someone places their weight on the ski, how they balance, that all comes into building the ski. It can take up to six months of consultations to design a completely tailored ski.”

Kohlbecker said Black Forest Skis shine best when used for freeskiing – especially on the undisturbed paths of a heliskiing experience. “My skis are perfect for long descents, like if you’re heliskiing in Tehran and hitting a descent of up to 2km down the mountain. What's so amazing about these slopes is the way the weather conditions change around you as you descend – the condition of the snow changes very quickly, from a very light powder at the peak to hard and crushed beneath you.

“The skis that you choose for a sport like this is crucial, because the conditions can be quite dangerous. It’s also more fun, because with the wrong skis even an experienced person will lose a lot of energy very fast. You need something that can handle whatever comes at you, that will give you the control you need, so you don’t catch the edge.” blackforestskis.com

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C U L T U R E NEW FRONTIERS

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THE GREAT DISTRUPTOR TIME TO PARTY

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FROM WORLD-LEADING EXPLORERS TO INNOVATIVE ARTISTS, ‘CULTURE’ IS OUR ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO WHAT’S HOT RIGHT NOW

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New

FRONTIERS Adventurer and guide Inge Solheim talks extreme exploration and the healing powers of trekking

Solheim’s challenging expeditions are a test for the body and the mind

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I grew up in the Norwegian mountains and from a very young age loved exploring, climbing, caving and doing sports in the river. This was a very important part of my character building – nature is where I found myself. For many years, I explored by myself or with friends and then around the age of 16 I started guiding people in the mountains, organising climbing trips and doing more extreme sports like white water rafting. I wanted to turn it into a full time job, but when my daughter was born I thought I ought to have a ‘proper job’. I went into finance for nine years before quitting to build my career as a professional adventure guide.

Now, I get lots of requests to do TV projects and guide expeditions with private individuals, organisations or scientists. The coolest expedition I've done so far was a three-month trip to Greenland with the BBC, where we recreated Amundsen and Scott’s race to the South Pole. We did it with the same kit they had in 1911 – the same sleeping bags, clothing, food and setup, including no contact with the outside world for three months. I had an amazing time. It was a challenge and that’s why it felt so good afterwards. The sense of achievement after doing something so difficult is far better than if you're cruising and having an easy time.

The fastest growing trend in travel is adventure travel, and I'm on an extremely niche end of that market. Although I do get a lot of requests, I often recommend other companies and holiday providers. I'm not in this for maximising my profit –instead, I want to work on special projects and go on trips with interesting people.

To push myself and my clients so our sense of achievement is bigger.

The perception of adventure travel is that it’s dangerous, but it’s only dangerous if you go with amateurs, if you venture out alone or if you put yourself in a hostile environment. What I do is well planned. I train people beforehand and I know the capabilities of my clients. We control most factors, we are prepared for any kind of weather and we mitigate the risks and reduce them. We have done risk assessments with VIPs, celebrities and royals, and the conclusion is always that they’re safer on an expedition with me than they are in London. »

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Inge Solheim with Prince Harry and Martin Hewitt in Svalbard, preparing for the Walking with the Wounded North Pole expedition

The biggest challenge of working with royalty is the lead up to the expedition because the people around them can be more ‘royal’ than they are. People who are born into royalty are usually very easy going, but their entourage can be very difficult. The biggest hurdle is all the fuss that surrounds celebrities.

Where I differ from other guides is that I push harder and go faster. It’s for my own sake, too, because I also want to push myself.

The most interesting part of my job is the psychological aspect. The journey my clients go through from the planning phase to after the expedition is fascinating. I enjoy watching them grow during the experience and learn new skills. In my eyes, their mental journey is as important as their physical and geographical journey. I call it ‘life exploring’.

As most of the world’s frontiers have already been discovered, I don't feel I fit the shoes of the old explorers, I'm more of a guide. I try to make people feel better and learn more about themselves. I’ve hosted a lot of expeditions for soldiers who have PTSD and people with disabilities. Through good preparation, we've managed to turn these disabilities into assets and can deal with them in such a way that they are as able as an able-bodied person. For me, it’s really rewarding to see someone go through a mental or physical journey and get better during the process.

As for my own personal journey, there are a few things I still want to do. I want to climb some beautiful mountains, like Khan Tengri in Kazakhstan. I want to go down deep in submarines. I’d love to go into space, but not as a tourist – I would happily volunteer for a oneway trip to Mars. It wouldn't happen the next five to 10 years but I would want that extraordinary experience of leaving this planet and seeing new things.

My advice for people considering doing one of these adventure trips is that the barrier is actually really low – it’s almost always the perceived risks, not the actually ones, that keep people from doing it. The best thing is to find friends interested in the same thing, do your research and then just go out and do it. You’ll make mistakes, you’ll get blisters, but go and explore. If you have a friend more experienced than you, tag along on one of his or her trips to slowly to build up your confidence. You’ll soon see there’s no limit to what you can do. It’s so much easier than people think.”

Solheim exploring ice caves in Svalbard

ingesolheim.com

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The great

DISRUPTOR As the first artist to sell his work via Bitcoin in the UK, Lincoln Townley is a force to be reckoned with

Words: Rachel Ingram

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rt and technology are often seen as opposing enterprises, the former deemed somewhat traditional and elitist compared to the highly innovative and accessible digital world.

Collecting art, meanwhile, can be seen as a hobby for old, rather than new, money – but that could all soon change.

As cryptocurrencies, currently worth over £280bn, continue to boom, a gap is being bridged between the digital and the physical as new ‘Bitcoin billionaires’ search for a way to spend their overnight earnings. One place the currency is beginning to inflitrate – much to the distate of traditionalists – is the $60bn global art market.

One innovator intent on distrupting the industry is Lincoln Townley, a British artist who, in December 2017, achieved a UK-first by selling a piece titled ‘Homage to Francis Bacon’ for 40 Bitcoin – the equivalent of around £480,000 at the time of going to print.

Here, Tempus speaks to Townley, a self-professed Bitcoin enthusiast, about risk, revolution and taking the power back from galleries. »

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Homage to Francis Bacon is the first artwork that Lincoln Townley had sold via Bitcoin

What do you find so exciting about working with cryptocurrencies?

I think it’s a very attractive way of putting my story across.

Many artists are too black and white or too worried – my energy is very much to do with opportunity. I think there’s a huge scope of opportunity with the blockchain and the way that it looks at governing transactions.

Other people wouldn't see it like that – I reckon I could sit in a room and handpick twenty artists and none of them would know anything about Bitcoin. They wouldn’t want to take the risk with their work, I would bet on that. If someone said ‘I’ll buy a painting from you in Bitcoin’, I think they wouldn’t even know where to start, because lots of them don’t even sell their own work, they’re governed by galleries.

How do you plan to incorporate Bitcoin into your work?

Next year, I want to create a platform which can take Bitcoin currency as a transaction for the art. I want to be able to sell as well as I create, and that’s where other artists fall short. I think this currency opens up to a market of people that take risks. I look at it from a forecast point of view. Take the example of a Bitcoin investor, they forecast on a currency and put hard earned money into buying Bitcoin, whether if it was now or ten years ago, they’ve still got that risk element. I think if you gamble, I’m a good artist to gamble on, I think I’ve proven that.

Have you always been a risk taker?

I have, yes, absolutely. I’m excited by people who take risks. Most of the people that I want to be around are adventurous and want to do more. That’s the mentality I believe in and it’s also the mentality that many people who invest in cryptocurrency have.

I think risk is very exciting. I know that sounds a bit brash but it’s not boasting because I would’ve said risk is exciting five years ago when I had nothing, but that’s the point. I’ve gone from someone who literally had about £1,000 six years ago, to an artist who’s now a millionaire. Find me another artist that can say that. Many other artists don’t think outside the box. They go to their galleries, they give them the work, they don’t even ring the gallery to ask them how they’re doing. I will be on the phone to my galleries every single week without fail.

By working with cryptocurrencies, would you say you’re opening up the art world to a whole new audience?

No, I’m creating a whole new art world, in my opinion. I have no interest whatsoever in The Royal Academy. It’s boring, it’s grey, it’s stuffy, it’s narrow minded, there’s no optimism whatsoever and no-one seems able to fuel anybody with any new ideas. The establishment cannot stand me because I tell people they can

sell, but they want people to sell when they’re dead. It’s very rare to find a wealthy, living artist because of the way that everyone is guided. It’s a similar thing to the banking institution – people don’t like change because it affects the way they’ve got to work and operate, but that is why I’m so excited by it.

It sounds like you’ve got a fair few enemies!

Yeah, I’ve got many more enemies than I’ve got friends but I love it that way. Curators are going to start questioning me but I say bring it on, I’ll put it on the front page of my website. That’s what you’ve got to do and that’s the whole point of change. If you’re lucky enough to create change then embrace it.

Criticism seems to be the underlying theme of your upcoming documentary, 93 No’s.

The documentary is more or less based around how many galleries and art agents said no to me in the beginning. It’s really as rough and ready as me walking around the galleries, showing them my work and them just saying no, literally. In some cases even laughing at me saying ‘no chance’.

What was the inspiration behind your new collection, ‘Hell’, which is available to buy through Bitcoin?

My darker work looks at what we go through to achieve. ‘Hell’ looks at what we need to do to become successful and the risks we need to take. I’m doing 10 pieces at the moment with a homage to Francis Bacon. The collection features deep, jagged contours and howling faces sunk in oceans of colour – life-sized figures protruding from the canvas as they rage, fight and struggle to survive.

Tell us about the other side of your artwork, ‘Icons’, where you create portraits of celebrities.

What I was interested in was how famous people become iconic and how they’ve managed to sustain an iconic stature in such an aggressive, competitive market. I started out painting Russell Brand, Charlie Sheen and Nick Nolte, and moved on then to Al Pacino, Robert De Niro, Meryl Streep and other big names. I said: ‘listen, I’m interested in what you guys go through’, which, of course, they were intrigued by. One of the reasons I put their name in front of their face is to create a barrier between them and the viewer, because there’s no privacy in celebrity anymore. The reaction has been incredible. I’ve been BAFTA’s resident artist for the last three years – it’s fair to say I am the most famous portrayer of famous people in the world. lincolntownley.com

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Townley’s Hell collection explores the price of success

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PARTY

As Tempus becomes the headline partner of the BRIT Awards Official After Party, we take a look at the biggest night in British music

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rom Geri Halliwell's Union Jack dress at the height of Spice Girl fever, to Madonna's dramatic cape malfunction in 2015, the BRIT Awards is the gift that keeps on giving.

An annual night of pure pop magic and madness since its inception in 1977, the BRITs have always been a balm to what can elsewhere be a rather staid awards season.

And this year, Tempus is delighted to be getting in on the action by hosting the 38th BRIT Awards Official After Party at InterContinental London – The O2. The BRIT Awards with Mastercard will take place live at the London O2 Arena on 21 February, hosted by comedian Jack Whitehall and featuring performances by the world's biggest stars – including Ed Sheeran, Stormzy, Sam Smith and the most-streamed female artist of 2017, Dua Lipa.

“I’m thrilled to be hosting The BRITs,” says Whitehall. “It is the kind of show you dream of hosting as a kid, so I’m really excited to have been asked.”

Party like a prince Not only is Tempus hosting a right royal knees up as partners of the official after party, we are also inviting VIP guests to enjoy the Diamond ticket package, which will include a three-course dinner and exclusive pre-show performance by Critic's Choice Award winner Jorja Smith at the InterContinental Hotel. The breakthrough star recently collaborated with superstar Drake on two tracks from his 'More Life' album, and is expected to dominate the charts in 2018.

After enjoying VIP seats at the BRIT Awards, guests will head back to the InterContinental to enjoy our special after party. As 2018 is set to be a big year for our favourite royals, what’s better than a party fit for a prince? Think private jets, polo and party favours with a royal flavour. More details coming soon.

Downstairs in the main area, 6,500 celebrity, industry and HNW guests will enjoy plenty of entertainment, beverages and a wild interior space inspired by BRIT Awards trophy designer, artist Sir Anish Kapoor.

“We are absolutely thrilled to be involved with one of the biggest music award ceremonies in Europe, which we hope this year, with the addition of Tempus as partner, will boast the most glamorous and spectacular BRITs after party to date,” says Tempus events director Georgia Peck. “We would like to thank the BRITs team for this opportunity and it is a partnership we hope to continue and grow in the many years to come.”

For more information visit tempusmagazine.co.uk/brits

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M O V E A CLASSIC REIMAGINED

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DREAM TICKET 88 - 91 THE PHUKET EFFECT 92 - 95

IN THIS ISSUE, WE DRIVE FAST CARS IN LA, SAIL SUPERYACHTS IN THAILAND AND BOARD THE WORLD’S BIGGEST PARTY JET

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A classic

reimagined Modernity and retro 911 styles combine in Gunther Werks’ sensational one-of-25 400R

Words: Kyle Fortune

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he idea is simple, even if the execution is far from it. The Californian firm Gunther Werks takes a 993-series Porsche 911 and updates it as if Porsche itself had continued to do so through to this day. Not just as a regular Carrera, though.

Gunther Werks CEO Peter Nam admits the company’s goal was to create an air-cooled model in the vein of the current GT3. That signals Gunther Werks’ intent in building the most engaging, uncompromising driver-focussed car.

They call it the 400R, and just 25 will be built.

The result is truly extraordinary, as befits the 400R’s circa $500,000 price tag and limited-run status. It strips weight via carbon fibre body panels, rear seat delete and more besides – adding power via a unique 4.0-litre flat-six engine developed by highly regarded engine builders Rothsport Racing. The output is a heady 431hp and 320lb.ft of torque – enough to give it a powerto-weight ratio better than a current-generation Porsche 911 GT3. It rides on a chassis comprising a bespoke KW set-up, with detailed changes to the chassis, engine, interior and exterior applying modern materials and technology to enhance and improve – just as Porsche might have done were it still building the 993 today.

There’s a lightweight lithium-ion battery, electric air conditioning and heating, and an electric pump on the hydraulic steering. The level of detail applied to the 400R is as exacting as it is exhaustive, all done without detracting from the classic, purist appeal of the car it’s based on.

Visually it’s riotous, retaining the same upright windscreen and compact cabin which has lineage right back to the original 911 introduced in 1963.

The flared front and rear arches give the 400R a square track and hunkered stance evoking Porsche’s classic race cars, with contemporary detailing bringing its lines up to date.

JUST 25 WILL BE BUILT BUT CEO NAM ADMITS THAT THEY’RE NEARLY ALL SOLD OUT, SO PERSUASIVE HAVE BEEN THE TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS AND STYLING Inside it’s stripped with intent and the simple, exacting fit of the trim is beautifully finished.

Concessions to modernity include an integrated sat nav via Porsche Classic, a lift system to allow the nose to raise over bumps and ramps, and a button that quietens the exhaust and changes the engine to a slightly less ferocious map.

Just 25 will be built but CEO Nam admits that they’re nearly all sold out, so persuasive have been the technical specifications and styling.

The proof, though, is in the driving – so Gunther Werks has given us the keys and sent us on a route around some all-but deserted LA canyon roads to experience it. I’m familiar with the regular 993, but none I’ve ever driven before move like this one.

Turning the key, the 4.0-litre engine emits a rousing, naturally-aspirated flat-six bark like nothing else, the chunter from the clutch release bearing reminiscent of the later GT3 cars Gunther Werks is aiming to emulate.

The engine revs to its 7800rpm redline with alacrity, the six-speed manual gearshift shifts with precision, the cabin filled with the intoxicating, rousing sound of that beautifully finished engine.

Lifting the engine cover reveals the flat-six looks like a work of engineering art, though Gunther Werks insists buyers use it, determined that its engine builder’s efforts don’t go wasted sitting in a garage as a showpiece.

Where modern sports cars flatter and ease, the 400R demands and rewards. There is a rich feel on offer from the steering, the balance and control from the chassis and the immediacy of the engine’s response all adding up to a hugely immersive whole. The performance is contemporary, yet the sensations are devoid of the muted, digital feel that defines most modern sports cars.

An extraordinary vehicle, the 400R taps into a swelling zeitgeist that all progress isn’t necessarily good, mixing the best current materials and thinking and applying them to the purity and feel that defines the past. And the result is spectacular. guntherwerks.com

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MOVE Just 25 models are available for a cool $500,000 each

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Dream

TICKET Tempus steps on board the world’s only VVIP 787 private jet

Words: Sam Chui

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The converted Boeing 787 Dreamliner rents for a staggering ÂŁ50,000 per hour

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The commercial Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft can usually carry between 240 and 335 passengers, but the purpose of this model – dubbed the globe’s biggest party pane – is a little bit different. The world’s most luxurious private jet comes complete with high-tech amenities, a master bedroom, and enough room for 40 people, and cost a estimated £230 million to produce.

With the tongue-in-cheek registration code ‘2-DEER’, the aircraft has been gutted and fully renovated to include market-leading technological innovations, including remotecontrolled blinds and furniture, dimmable lighting, and an extra spacious shower.

I was greeted on the steps of the plane by the jet’s cabin crew, who are handpicked from parent company Hainan Airlines Group’s (HNA) elite staff members.

Once on board the aircraft, I was asked to take a seat so that they could swap my shoes for a pair of fluffy slippers.

It was unlike anything I’ve seen before. I started off down a narrow passage which leads to a dark wood-panelled corridor into the main lobby lounge. This space is huge and spans the whole width of the Boeing 787. It also has no overhead bins, making for extra headroom.

The lounge has capacity for 16 travellers, who can relax in a selection of lazy boy armchairs, chaise longues, sofas, and even a bean bag.

The main lounge also features two large dining tables which can be laid for early evening drinks, afternoon tea, or an entire feast rustled up by the onboard private chef.

THE MASTER BEDROOM EVEN HAS ITS OWN

STONE-CLAD ‘MASTER WASHROOM’,

FEATURING A SPACIOUS SHOWER AND DUAL-SINK VANITY

Top of the range tableware – including handcut glass decanters, exquisite vases and bone china – are ready for any occasion.

There are also three wide-screen TVs in the lounge and dining area. The main sofa can be electronically controlled to split apart or join together, depending on your needs.

Peeling off from the lobby towards the front of the plane, you’ll find a fully enclosed, totally private master bedroom featuring a superking bed. At first glance, it feels like you’re in a luxury hotel room. The only giveaway is the plane windows on the side.

Candles line shelves along the walls, while pillows, deep-pile carpets, and throws make for a comfortable movie den where you can unwind in front of the 42-inch TV. The master bedroom even has its own stoneclad ‘master washroom’, featuring a spacious shower and dual-sink vanity. The crew told me that the shower holds 210 gallons of water supply.

In the rear, the Dreamliner has 18 business class seats with their own amenities and plenty of leg room. Useful if you travel with a lot of staff.

So, I’m sold. How much does it cost to hire the world’s only VVIP 787? Around $70,000 (£52,000) per hour. Form an orderly queue, please. en.deerjet.com

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MOVE Inside, the aircraft lives up to its tongue-incheek registration code ‘2-DEER’

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The

PHUKET effect

Tempus visits the invite-only Kata Rocks Superyacht Rendezvous to discover why Phuket is the new superyachting hotspot

Words: Chantal Borciani

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ith hundreds of ink-drop islands, world-class diving sites and kaleidoscopic marine national parks within easy cruising reach, Phuket is a sailing paradise. With miles of emerald waters and a burgeoning infrastructure, the island is tipped to become Asia’s prime superyacht destination but it is events such as the Kata Rocks Superyacht Rendezvous that are placing Phuket firmly in the superyacht spotlight.

Phuket rocks The Kata Rocks Superyacht Rendezvous was held in December with superyacht builders Feadship, Royal Huisman and Burgess all on the bill. Hosted at the luxury resort Kata Rocks, the invitationonly event brings together the most prestigious superyacht brands with industry figures and high-net-worth individuals, representative of the high-end yachting potential in Asia.

Richard Pope, CEO of Infinite Luxury (the company behind Kata Rocks and the rendezvous), explained: “What we are doing with this event is promoting the region and trying to get the right clientele to come and experience Phuket. The yachting world has been going from the Med to the Caribbean for years now but superyacht owners increasingly want to explore new territories.

We want them to turn left and come to Asia because Thailand is truly a world-class cruising ground.”

The impressive fleet for the event included the 70m Feadship Lady Christine and the 50.9m Northern Sun, represented by Burgess. During the exclusive three-day rendezvous, guests were invited on board the fleet of superyachts to watch the King’s Cup Regatta and cruise up the beautiful coast of Phuket. Itinerary highlights included the opening cocktail party, a host of private dinners and the Kata Rocks Charter Season Opening Party. “The Caribbean has had the St Barth’s Bucket for more than 20 years and that’s the idea here, to create something similar,” added Pope.

Peter Mahony, general manager of Benetti Asia, has seen the growth in interest in the region: “The value of this type of event and others in Phuket is that they showcase the lifestyle

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The 50.9m Northern Sun by Burgess Yachts was one of the clear highlights of the show

and everything Phuket has to offer and increases the appetite for longer-range luxury yachts in the region.”

Tiah Hwee, business development manager for Burgess Asia, said the company is keen to promote region as a whole. “There’s so much to explore, with great diving, a lot of culture in Thailand, great weather, good food and friendly people,” she added.

Many agree that what sets Phuket apart for future development and superyacht growth is its relatively good infrastructure.

Lies Sol, charter manager and broker for Northrop & Johnson in Phuket, said: “In Hong Kong there is a lot of wealth but marinas are full and it can be difficult to find a berth. Phuket is well connected and has an expanding marina network so this will really help the island become significantly more popular for yacht owners.”

Sol currently has Thai and foreign flagged yachts on her portfolio ranging from 65ft to 140ft with another six potentially coming aboard in 2018 and has seen a growing demand for local Phuket charters as well as international charters in south-east Asia.

And the brands also continue to arrive – Contest Yachts, a leader in custom-built sailboats, chose the Superyacht Rendezvous to launch its brand in Asia.

Chic retreats Along with incredible cruising grounds – Phang Nya Bay boasts a cluster of over 70 islands to explore while the stunning Similan Islands are relatively untouched and lie to the north in the Andaman Sea – the Phuket on-shore scene is also shifting. Luxury property portfolios such as Kata Rocks, a cool, contemporary oceanfront resort comprising 34 villas on the south of the island, appeal to a discerning, international clientele with all but two units quickly snapped up for sale. Around 80% of the stylish villas are offered to the rental market when not in use by owners and have proved incredibly popular.

Michael Nurbathian, director of marketing for Infinite Luxury, believes the last ten years have been pivotal for Phuket. “Look at what happened with Ibiza. Ibiza was once known for hedonism and partying and then become the byword in Med luxury,” he said. “The combination of luxury hotels and properties and yachts made Ibiza a high-end option. The same could happen with Phuket.”

If Phuket is to really boom, one issue that will need to be resolved is the tax currently required to be paid by foreign-flagged yachts.

When this law is relaxed, there is expected to be a big influx of superyachts from areas including the Med, providing the last piece of the puzzle for Phuket’s superyacht hub prowess.

With a maturing superyacht infrastructure, signs for Phuket are encouraging. “When you get back to basics people come to Thailand for amazing beaches, incredible food, first-class spas and clear blue seas – all things Phuket has in droves,” concluded Pope.

“After all boating is a lifestyle and there is no better place to enjoy Phuket than from the water.” katarockssuperyachtrendezvous.com

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I N D U L G E AGAINST THE GRAIN MAGIC MOMENTS

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THE SWEET ESCAPE TABLE FOR TWO

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THE GOLDEN TICKET

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GASTRONOMIC TRENDS, NEW YEAR WELLNESS AND MICHELIN-STARRED ESCAPES MAKE UP THE ‘INDULGE’ SECTION

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Against the

GRAIN

Entering the mystical world of premium sake, Japan’s beguiling rice wine

Words: Peter Dean

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reviously, my experience of sake was extremely limited.

The rice spirit was something I would occassionally order at a Japanese restaurant, mainly for the novelty of drinking it hot from little cups that make a whistling sound when you empty them. Then, there was the highly-prized orange sake that sat at the back of my fridge for a few years. It’s fair to say that sake hadn’t, until recently, garnered my attention in the same way that Japanese cuisine had, but that has changed.

The spirit is having a moment right now and a little research revealed there’s a sake for any occasion, with around 25,000 varieties to choose from. The main types worth sampling are Namazake (non-pasteurised, lively and zingy), Kimoto and Yamahai (wild and ‘funky’), Bodaimoto (salty and gamey), Koshu (aged and musty) and Nigori-zake (cloudy and less refined). You can also get delicious sparkling sake, which is lower in alcohol but equally flavoursome.

So why is sake suddenly so popular? The non-Japanese team behind Heavensake think they might have the answer. Their pure sake is free of additives, gluten, sulphites and added sugar. “This is a new way to experience alcohol,” said Régis Camus, a celebrated champagne maker-turned-sake blender. “In fact, I will give you my mobile number and if anyone has a headache tomorrow, you can call me.”

Camus was talking at a tasting of their two sakes – Junmai Ginjo and Junmai Daiginjo, which they are introducing into nonJapanese restaurants, in this case C London. We drank them alongside Italian classics with the umami of prosciutto, burrata and saffron risotto pairing well.

But where to start with finding your way though the somewhat confusing world of sake? »

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Although there are some non-junmai sakes that are well worth drinking, it’s best for a beginner to start with junmai sake. This is the premium stuff that accounts for about a quarter of all sake produced and is classified as such by having no brewer’s alcohol added. Junmai is ‘pure rice’ and the more polished the grains, the purer it is. This is, of course, preferred because the higher the milling of the rice, the lighter, more refined and fruitier the flavours become. To begin your sake journey with the best of the best, sip Junmai Daiginjo, the purest category, followed by Junmai Ginjo, the second purest.

Sake can be crafted using a number of different brewing methods. The oldest practice, Bodai-moto, can be traced back to the 14th century and wouldn’t be out of place in an episode of Kung Fu – plenty of sage nodding and slow movements. In fact, sake brewing is a highly skilled art that can, in more traditional breweries, incorporate mystical elements. In modern breweries, the rice milling machine is very factory-like – looking like a giant cheese grater.

To try sake in London head to ROKA – the Mayfair restaurant having a 40-strong list. Umu, also in Mayfair, has an amazing sake-pairing menu (and the Japanese cuisine is some of the best in town). For sake-pairing with a difference, you can sample Heavensake’s Ginjo and Junmai Daiginjo alongside a speciallychosen Italian pairing menu at C London from 1 January.

Sexy Fish is good too – particularly if you’re looking for a lively atmosphere while you sip your sake.

Whatever the future holds for this distinctive Japanese ‘spirit of the moment’, what’s certain is that sake won’t be hidden at the back of the fridge any longer.

Heavensake is a new Franco-Japanese sake brand that promises a hangoverfree experience

The bar ar ROKA Mayfair stocks 40 varieties of sake

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With rice milled to 1%, Tatenokawa Zenith is a world-first

THE HIGHER THE MILLING OF THE RICE, THE LIGHTER, MORE REFINED AND FRUITIER THE FLAVOURS BECOME

Three sakes to try in 2018 Heavensake Junmai Daigino Prestige cuvée with 35% milled rice that has a strong personality and is incredibly delicate at the same time. The nose is complex and floral like a bouquet of flowers, subtle citrus, aniseed and pears on the mouth.

Tatenokawa Zenith A world first with the rice milled to 1%. Expect ultra purity. Nobody has tasted this in the UK yet but ROKA is launching it in February 2018.

Dassai 23% Junmai Daiginjo With notes of ripe melons and peaches, this is clean and velvety with rice polished to 23% – the purest of any commercially available brand. This will cost about £140 in a restaurant for a 720ml bottle. Dassai ‘Beyond’ costs about £640.

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MAGIC MOMENTS One of London’s most traditional hotels has taken a gamble with its flagship restaurant. Is the capital ready for Mexican with a twist?

Words: Scott Manson

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hink Park Lane hotels and certain words and phrases come to mind. Luxurious, certainly, but also staid, overly traditional and living on glories past. No one has namechecked the Met Bar as a hot spot for at least a decade and The Dorchester, although home to a fine French restaurant, is more dickie bows and ballrooms than cutting edge culinary goings-on.

That’s why Ella Canta, the high-end Mexican restaurant set in the Intercontinental Hotel, has got London’s foodies all-a-flutter. The buzz about this place is ridiculous thanks to some seriously good reviews.

Plus the fact that’s it’s helmed by celebrity chef Martha Ortiz, whose Mexico City restaurant, Dulce Patria, consistently ranks among Latin America’s best. An exuberant character, Ortiz is also a judge on Top Chef Mexico.

And it’s this colourful, magical style that’s proved such a hit here at the concrete junction end of Park Lane. Like a wild flower pushing through the paving stones, Ella Canta is a beautiful anomaly and deserves to be huge success.

From the floral-headpieced waitresses to the David Collins-designed space itself – complete with a 45-metre hand-carved walnut screen that runs the length of the restaurant – and the brilliantly eclectic mix of

music soundtracking our night, this place combines good cooking with good times.

Edible golden grasshoppers atop guacamole was an interesting opening, as was an unusual Mexican take on Caesar salad which featured grilled gem lettuce, fried anchovies, anchovy dressing, grated cheese and some spicy mayonnaise. The verdict around the table veered from ‘What the…?” to “I love it.”

And it’s that sort of place. Even if you’re not sure about one dish, something to your taste is sure to follow. It’s like Russian roulette dining, but obviously better because no one dies.

What we did all agree on was that the soft shell crab was a sublime dish, while the chunky, charred and ultra-tender beef fillet – served with black chichilo and aubergine – was the standout of the night.

There are plenty of desserts to tempt you too, but save yourself time and just order the churros – a doughy, caramel, chocolatey affair that your taste buds will thank you for.

Ella Canta – putting the fun back in hotel fine dining – one golden grasshopper at a time. ellacanta.com

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Edible grasshoppers on guacamole makes for an intriguing starter

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sweet escape We head to Lisbon to discover there’s more to Portuguese cuisine than piri piri chicken

Words: Rachel Ingram

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ortuguese fast food, as marketed by Nandos, is the biggest bluff in modern gastronomy. While the chain may use Portugal’s rooster emblem, the South African conglomerate’s cuisine is far from an accurate representation of Portuguese cuisine. In reality, it’s more about fresh seafood, sweet pastries and ‘green wine’ than piri piri chicken.

As we joined TAP Air Portugal on their inaugural flight from London City Airport to Lisbon Airport, it was immediately obvious that food would become a integral part of the journey. Awaiting our arrival at the airport were hundreds of pasteis de nata, the country’s signature pastry delicacy (essentially a custard tart), which has become a bit of a hit in London in recent months. As I indulged in my first of what would become many sweet treats, I realised that when it comes to food, the Portuguese simply do it better. »

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Pasteis de nata is Portugal’s signature pastry delicacy

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While the likes of Heston Blumenthal, Gordon Ramsay and Jason Atherton dominate the London food scene, in Lisbon there’s one man who rules the roost – José Avillez. He’s one of the most prominent chefs in Portugal for good reason.

He owns eight unique outlets in Lisbon, ranging from fine dining restaurant Belcanto (which has two Michelin stars) to a burlesque bar (Beco) in a former chapel, where guests can enjoy dinner and show. Arguably the most intriguing of his establishments is Bairro do Avillez, a multi-outlet venue with several outlets all dedicated to food and drink. Bairro do Avillez is a Disneyland for epicureans with a taberna, a páteo, a mercearia, and more, hidden in little alcoves.

In Portugal, dining is about the freshness of the produce and the quality of the cuisine rather than showy presentation as chefs strip back to basics and let the flavours speak for themselves.

This style of cooking is particularly evident at Delfina Restaurant, a characterful restaurant at AlmaLusa Baixa/Chiado, close to the historic Praça do Comércio, where I received my first introduction to the cuisine. In one lunch, the myths of ‘Nandos’ Portugal’ were dispelled.

Instead of piri piri chicken, we were served fresh seafood, delicious tapas and Vinho Verde – ‘green wine’, followed by the most delicious chocolate mousse I’ve ever tasted.

Higher up the hill in the ancient district of Alfama, we discovered another hidden gem in Memmo Alfama, where an outdoor terrace lounge serves up delicious, traditional Portuguese tapas (similar to Spanish tapas but with seafood displacing meat) over incredible views over the bay, which are particularly stunning at sunset.

It’s at this brand’s sister property, Memmo Principe Real, however, where we got an authentic taste of the new, new Lisbon. At Café Principe Real, Portuguese cuisine is given a contemporary, global twist. The menu is a melting pot of international flavours, with influences from Brazil, Africa and East Asia, where many Portuguese have settled. Bringing these flavours back home to the mother country, chefs present a colourful menu taking guests on a journey

Chef Vasco Lello at Memmo Principe Real

BARRIO DO AVILLEZ IS A

DISNEYLAND FOR EPICUREANS

WITH A TABERNA, A PÁTEO, A MERCEARIA, AND MORE around the world. Begin the voyage with a starter of mini-taco tartar, Asian oysters or chicken kefta before moving on to grouper and coconut curry, sweet and sour pork chops or Asian duck. Even the dessert menu is given a twist – local favourite Pão-de-ló de Alfeizerão, for example, is served with homemade matcha tea ice-cream.

The five-star hotel itself is also worth a mention. Interiors are classic and highly stylish as minimalist décor is complimented with magnificent statement lights, while windows open up to a stunning view over the city. Service is also second to none – at nights, the concierge team leaves guests notes in bowler hats, while bathrooms are filled with luxurious Hermès products and rooms are decorated with handblown glass lamps and art by Portuguese artists.

In each room, guests are greeted with a signature Portonic cocktail (white port with tonic water, ice and mint). In fact, the welcome treat seems to be a common theme in Portugal, as we also discovered at AlmaLusa Baixa/Chiado where a slice of chocolate cake awaited us every evening.

Outside of the hotels, Lisbon’s culinary scene gets even more exciting. The city is filled with quirky dining establishments, highlights of which include Time Out Market Lisboa, a food hall not unlike London’s Borough Market, and LX Factory, a Brooklyn-esque dining and shopping complex set within a former factory that’s filled with art galleries, independent boutiques and eateries.

For a taste of the more traditional, don’t miss Pastéis de Belém, the oldest bakery in the city, which claims to have invented pasteis de nata.

When we visited Lisbon, we weren’t expecting to go on such an extraordinary gastonomic journey, but after a taste of the city’s best restaurants, we’ll certainly be back for seconds. flytap.com

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José Avillez

Delfina Restaurant

Café Principe Real

Beyond the kitchen In between meals, there’s a whole host of activities to take part in

Sunset river cruise Bring the day to a close in style with a private cruise along the river Tagus (check). Sail along the coast and take in the views of the entire city as you enjoy drinks and snack – yes, pasteis de nata are included – as the sun goes down. taguscruises.com

Fado performance Melancholy yet hauntingly beautiful, Fado music is Portugal’s national music. Telling ancient tales of fishermen out at sea, it’s a must-see when visiting Lisbon. There are a number of venues at which visitors can enjoy a live Fado performance and dinner, including A Severa Fado restaurant in Barrio Alto and Senhor Vinho, an exclusive latenight venue in Lapa. asevera.com srvinho.com

Visit Cascais If you have time, escape the city for an afternoon, or a night, and explore the beautiful beach town of Cascais. Originally a fishing village, it became a seaside escape for the royal family in the early 20th century and remains a charming spot to this date.

Take a tour of all the sights with Lisbon by Beetle and enjoy a blast from the past as you drive along the coast in vintage VW Beetles. If you have time to stay, around the coast Hotel Cascais Mirage offers quality accommodation and beautiful sea views.

Café Principe Real

cascaismirage.comz

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Table for two This Valentine’s Day, treat your loved one to a gastronomic journey in a memorable location Words: Scott Manson

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Hampton Manor

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ou know how you never appreciate a place until you move away from it? That’s exactly what happened with me and Solihull, the West Midlands town that I called home for 10 years. When I left for the bright lights of London, I was happy to say goodbye. But coming back feels lovely. It’s a quiet, well-to-do place which, I’ve only just discovered, also boasts an incredible hotel – Hampton Manor – offering the perfect blend of traditional and contemporary in a wonderfully romantic setting. If only I’d known about this place when I was a single man in Solihull, searching for somewhere impressive to woo girlfriends.

Still, all good things come to he who waits – because this country house hotel is a cracker. It stands in 45 acres of wooded grounds, near the cute village of Hampton-in-Arden. The location puts you in easy striking distance of Stratford-upon-Avon and Warwick Castle although, frankly, when you’re staying somewhere as special as this, you’ll find it hard to leave.

The interior is grand, from the original spiral staircase – with a huge chandelier at its centre – to a cosy bar, exquisite dining room and The Parlour – a bright, airy room with a crackling fireplace at either end. Perfect for postprandial relaxation.

There are just 15 individually designed suites, all with big desks, huge beds and, in our room at least, a fabulous view of the landscaped gardens.

Charmingly, there are also books – good books at that – on the shelves, plus the sort of quality robes and slippers you’d expect from a hotel of this calibre. The bathroom was also rather lovely, complete with rainfall shower and separate claw foot bath that virtually demands that you empty a litre of bubble bath in there.

And while the surrounding area has no shortage of good gastropubs, you’d be well advised to enjoy at least one dinner in Peel’s, the hotel’s one Michelinstarred restaurant. Indeed, so proud are they of their gastronomic credentials that Hampton Manor is actually described as a ‘restaurant with rooms’. We embarked on the journey that was head chef Rob Palmer’s seven course tasting menu with wine flight – and what a delight it was.

Set in an atmospheric room with hand-painted wallpaper and intricately carved woodwork, every course was a delight – from the baked beetroot served with quinoa to delicate salmon with cucumber and dill. Simple, honest and quality produce was raised to new heights through inventive, contemporary cooking resulting, for example, in a beautifully rich main course of meltingly tender wagyu beef served with butternut squash, black garlic and parsley. The smoked eel with kohlrabi and samphire was also sublime. The accompanying wines were unusual with many hits and just a couple that were too challenging for us – although I’m sure true oenophiles would appreciate them.

The whole experience is one of relaxed charm, with inventive menus and amazing attention to detail at every turn. If you’re looking to impress a special someone, Hampton Manor ticks all the boxes.

hamptonmanor.com

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Culloden Estate This five star Irish estate stands on the forested slopes of the Holywood hills, overlooking Belfast Lough and the glorious County Antrim coastline. Close to Belfast city, the luxurious spa is Northern Ireland’s premier sanctuary for mind, body and soul and guests can revel in a range of ESPA products and lavish therapies with eight treatment suites. Head chef Paul McKnight runs the Mitre restaurant, offering seasonal delicacies such as Thornhill duck liver with smoked pancetta, cabbage, potato and onion or beautiful Baroncourt estate venison with parsnip and white chocolate. The very best of Irish produce, in other words. Take a suite and you can enjoy an open gas fire and fabulous views of the 12 acres of landscaped gardens. Little wonder it was voted Luxury Hotel of the Year at the Irish Hotel Awards.  hastingshotels.com

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Storrs Hall

Storrs Hall Set in the heart of one of the Lake District’s finest locations, the awardwinning Storrs Hall on the shores of Lake Windermere offers spectacular views across the water in an elegant, luxurious setting. It’s easy to see why poets like Wordsworth were so inspired by this area – Windermere has drama and beauty in spades. It’s clearly inspired the hotel’s chefs too, as the tasting menu on offer is a textbook example in using local produce in inventive ways. From the brill served with purslane and artichokes to tender, aged beef with wild garlic and horseradish mash, it’s easy to see why the Lake Edge restaurant is a firm favourite for gastronomes. Those seeking a truly romantic time should stay at the brand new one-bedroom Boathouse, which provides guests with a retreat right on the lakeside and comes complete with a private hot-tub, fire-pit and alfresco dining. Strawberries and champagne at midnight in the hot tub? Sounds good to us. ruddingpark.co.uk

Ebrington Arms

Ebrington Arms

The picturesque area of the Cotswolds is no slouch when it comes to luxury places to stay but, away from the big name hotels (Le Manoir, Whatley Manor et al), look a little further and you’ll discover the delights of truly local places, like The Ebrington Arms. The 17th century pub-with-rooms is set in a quaint village, complete with picture-postcard thatched cottages and sleepy lanes, and offers a great selection of local ales and a decent wine list.

The flickering candles and roaring fire in the lounge only add to the cosy, homely experience. The food is first-rate, raising gastropub standards to new levels – think chunky Barnsley chops served with white beans and heritage tomatoes or rib eye of gammon with duck egg and pineapple chutney. Trencherman portions too. The bedrooms are utterly charming, offering village or countryside views. This little gem of a place was voted Pub of the Year by The Times. theebringtonarms.co.uk

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Highbullen Hotel

Highbullen Hotel

Spread over a 125-acre Devon estate, this handsome Gothic country house offers much for the energetic visitor, from tennis courts to swimming pools and golf. For those who’d simply like to relax with a loved one, though, settle into one of its antique wingback chairs, order up a glass of champagne and relax to the sound of one of its many ticking grandfather clocks as you feel the stresses of life ease away. Beautiful views over Exmoor from its fine dining restaurant are the perfect backdrop to a well-judged menu that includes technically tricky dishes such as boudin of Devon coast place with lobster sabayon and roasted tiger prawns, or roasted fillet of Exmoor National Park beef with chateaux potatoes. A brilliant wine list only adds to the sense of occasion at this renowned restaurant. highbullen.co.uk

Rudding Park Yorkshire’s leading luxury hotel, which has just launched a rather swish spa, is set in 300 acres of landscaped gardens and offers a more contemporary take on the country house hotel. Think bold colours and plenty of modern art. The rooms of note are the Follifoot wing rooms, which include quirky touches such as leopard print chairs and beautiful rolltop baths. For golfing couples, the hotel offers an 18-hole course running through its parkland.

Food lovers should head for Horto, the hotel’s AAA-rated restaurant which offers an inventive eight-course tasting menu that joins the dots between dishes such as pork cheek with celeriac and apple or scallops with caviar, to a beautiful sweet and sharp yuzu tart. As the Yorkshire Post says: “Sit back and savour the culinary magic.” ruddingpark.co.uk

Rudding Park

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GOLDEN ticket

Tempus puts London’s newest luxury private member’s health club and spa to the test Words: Rachel Ingram

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ith one of the most prestigious postcodes in the city, The Lanesborough on Hyde Park Corner combines the exclusivity of Knightsbridge with the history of Mayfair.

When the hotel opened its new health club and spa – a private member’s venue whose ‘on request’ membership price is as protected as its list of clients – it immediately gained glowing reviews.

But does it live up to the hype?

Everything about The Lanesborough Club & Spa has been carefully considered, from its pristine decor to the personalised service. Starting in the golden changing room, we discover an opulent aesthetic with glass chandeliers, lockers filled with fluffy slippers and robes, and one of the most effective steam rooms in London – just five minutes inside and your skin glistens as the toxins of the city seep out of your pores.

There’s also a stunning mixed hydrotherapy pool and a relaxation area for before and after treatments. Take a seat on a comfy arm chair or day bed and enjoy fruit, nuts and snacks, washed down with cucumber water. Next to each seat, there’s a golden ‘service bell’ – press it and within 10 seconds a member of staff will be at your side.

When it comes to the treatment menu, wellness reigns supreme. We opted for the Deep Tissue Potli – a therapeutic massage using hot stones, healing herbs and oils from organic British brand ila. The

age-old technique of Potli is having a moment in the spa world right now as therapists realise its effectiveness in alleviating pain and promoting allround wellness.

The treatment begins with a consultation, during which therapists determine the source of your aches and pains. These are then worked out using a series of sweeping and targeted movements with the air of hot volcanic stones – known for reducing inflammation and joint stiffness – and heated herbal pouches, which rejuvenate and nourish strained muscles.

Interestingly, the technique requires clients to be fully naked (bar a minimal covering to protect your modesty) as the therapist works the whole body from top to bottom, guiding energies to the right places. The result is a feeling of internal and external rebalance.

After the treatment and a tea in the relaxation area, it was back to the golden changing rooms where vanity tables await laden with products, from ila cleansers to Schwarzkopf hair spray, and more – perfect if you’re heading out after your visit.

If you’re not in a rush, check out the rest of the club, which features a restaurant where you can enjoy a healthy lunch and a well-equipped gymnasium.

So, does this golden gem on the corner of Hyde Park deserve its glistening reputation? We believe so. lanesboroughclubandspa.com

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Potli herbal pouches

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P R O P E R T Y REMOTE REALMS

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SECOND TO NONE

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HOME FROM HOME

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IN ‘PROPERTY’, WE UNVEIL THE GREATEST NEW PROPERTIES AND MUST-HAVE HOLIDAY HOMES ACROSS THE GLOBE

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Remote realms For a second home with serious verve, escape to these extreme destinations Words: Cheryl Markosky

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nthony Lassman of Nota Bene Global, a private client service which organises travel and uncovers prime real estate for ultra-wealthy individuals, believes “the experience of travel is the currency of status, from ash-boarding down a Nicaraguan volcano to deep-sea fishing with orca whales. And when a traveller discovers the right destination, he might well buy a home.”

Anthony’s crowd wants off-the-beaten-track bespoke – salmon fishing on Iceland’s rugged Tolle peninsula, and authentic Nevis over St Barths. “When Prada and Gucci arrived in Gustavia harbour, it was time to move on,” he said.

That’s not to say upscale wanderers don’t want “to get dressed up all soignee” occasionally, but many don’t want to show off. One client could afford a classy St Tropez domain. An avid cook, he opted instead for a humble abode near food markets.

Affluent adventurers can be who they want to be on Bequia in St Vincent & the Grenadines,

explained Michelle Bass Bellegarde of Sotheby’s International Realty. “They can wake up to the sunrise and the crashing Atlantic waves, eat at some little fish place and connect with family and nature.”

Michelle noted that extended families can gather in a grand central space in the main house at Hope Bay Estate – the most remote spot on the island – and sleep in separate lodges surrounded by five acres for extra privacy.

Explorers frequenting ranches in far-flung Patagonia get to know and then buy them.

“Homesteads in the mountains aren’t fancy,” said Andrew Amos at Remind Group, Christie’s affiliate in Argentina. “Foreigners like the simplicity, along with sheep, gauchos, good wine and meat.”

You can pick up an expansive ranch in Patagonia for $1m. As well as a home being more profitable in the middle of nowhere, “most places don’t have internet so you can escape Brexit and Trump,” Andrew added. »

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Adventure and good value homes can be found at Lake Morentino

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Hope Bay Estate Hope springs eternal at this stunning lodge and four adjacent single-bedroom mini-lodges overlooking an unspoilt beach on the Grenadine island of Bequia. Quaint and bright, Little Hope is anything but a guesthouse, with two double and two twin bedrooms – all with en-suites – and its own infinity pool. On sale for $8.5m (£6.3m). sothebysrealty.com

THE ROBINSON CRUSOE-ESQUE FORMER LUXURY LODGE INVENTORY INCLUDES A THREE-BEDROOM HOMESTEAD

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Motukawaiti Island Your very own 93.67-acre isle, a short boat ride from New Zealand’s Matauri Bay. The Robinson Crusoe-esque former luxury lodge inventory includes a three-bedroom homestead, two new apartments, commercial kitchen, wharf, battery power source and roof-water collection system.

On the market for NZ$16m (£8.2m). » vladi-private-islands.de

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A MODERN LAKESIDE FOUR-BEDROOM HOUSE, MADE OF

TRADITIONAL LENGA WOOD

AND STONE, FACES TRONADOR MOUNTAIN

Lake Morentino Head for the Patagonian hills where adventure and good value looms large. A modern lakeside four-bedroom house, made of traditional lenga wood and stone, faces Tronador Mountain.

Nearly 5,000-square feet, it comes with a second dwelling containing another two bedrooms in staff quarters at the top. Buy it for $3.7m (£2.7m). christiesrealestate.com

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The Floating Seahorse Nautical buccaneers can dive straight into the world’s first luxury underwater scheme off Dubai’s The World. You can enjoy a Blue Planetlike existence observing brightly coloured fish and other marine life skittering around the coral reefs from the four-bedroom, three-storey, customised drifting home. Yours for AED15m (£3m). primenewdevelopments.com

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Second to

NONE Thinking of buying a holiday home? Turn it into an investment by following these tips on how to make your second home pay for itself Words: Nicola Venning

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holiday home abroad can be a great addition to an investor’s property portfolio. And while a second property may be unoccupied a lot of the time, it still incurs a variety of running costs, so letting it out when you’re not using it makes a lot of sense.

Regular vacation rentals can cover overheads and often bring in a little more besides. Reassuringly, it also means that an expensive property is not sitting empty for long periods of time. “It’s a growing trend,” revealed Meredith Bell of One Fine Stay, a high-end letting agency for second home owners. “Owners enjoy the idea of their holiday homes being used and also being checked on regularly.”

To gain maximum rental yield on your investment, it’s important to consider a number of factors. Whether you’re investing in a ski chalet or a beachside escape (or both), there are a few fundamentals that almost guarantee a good return.

From location and nearby services to decor and natural light, we unveil what to look for when shopping for a new holiday home in 2018.

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PROPERTY

Location, location Location is very important if a holiday home is to let successfully. A rental property needs to be easily reachable, and ideally be within two hours of a major international airport. It also needs to be close to everything that matters – a beach villa needs to be by the beach, while a city apartment must be central and mountain chalets should be near a ski lift.

For year-round income, look at city-beach destinations such as Barcelona, Bordeaux or, for value, Lisbon. Savills also recommends Venice, Florence and, more affordably, Lanzarote. Popular dual-season alpine resorts such as Chamonix and Courchevel have a range of properties at different price points, while St Lucia and Kitts and Nevis in the Caribbean are more affordable than islands with more mature property markets.

Light and views Consider a holiday home’s orientation – will it have sufficient light all year round? A mountain home which faces north might not see any sunshine for months during the winter and early spring, for example.

Similarly, a bolthole in the sun will need shade at different times of day, so investing in properties with different areas of outdoor space works best. Guests “wake up with the sun in the morning on the back balcony and get it (later in the day) on the front balcony”, said Michael Green, sales director at The Landings, a resort of one to three-bedroom villa suites, in St Lucia.

Residences with great views are more expensive to buy than those without. However, a stunning vista will help a home let quickly and at a higher rate – sometimes more than 30% than a home without a view.

Décor, fixtures and fittings Holidaymakers are looking for space, character and comfort. “Attention to detail is really important and great interior design is an absolute priority,” said Morgan Bientz, managing director of Alpine Residences, which specialise in letting luxury self-catered chalets in the French Alps.

High quality fixtures and fittings, (think Grohe, or Miele) marble bathrooms and kitchens with granite worktops are de rigueur. Some top agencies not only add extras such as additional bedside lights if needed, but even check the water pressure.

While neutral colour schemes are the safest bet, splashes of wellplaced colour are welcoming and fun. Log fires in snow homes, terrace plunge-pools in beach apartments, not forgetting BBQ’s and outdoor fires, can all make a home stand out. Broadband needs to be high speed, reliable and free. Bedrooms with en suites are also preferred as people are used to it in hotels and want it in the homes they rent, too.

The small print Holiday lettings can be time consuming and bureaucratic: meeting, greeting and handing over keys to guests, are just the basics. A rental property also needs be cleaned regularly, well-maintained and effectively marketed. Most owners therefore, use a letting agent. Many holiday developments have rental pools which owners can opt into and which will manage all aspects of renting out a holiday home.

Letting agents’ fees vary from about 15%-20% for basic booking to 50% for a full 24/7, property management service. However, David Bhagat, director of Alpine Property Search says owners whose homes “tick all the boxes”, can expect a yield of about 3%. “You won’t get rich renting it out,” he said, “but you should cover your costs.”

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HOME from HOME Experience holiday home rental at its most opulent – and private – in Cap Ferrat

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annes and Monaco are favourite escapes of the rich and famous but the real VIPs know to eschew the busy harbour towns in favour of the scenic Cap Ferrat.

Perfectly located between Monaco and Cannes, this beautiful peninsula is one of the most unspoilt, and secretive, places on the French Riviera.

Embedded into the hillside and enjoying uninterrupted ocean views, Villa O holds one of the most prestigious addresses in Cap Ferrat. Located just a short walk from the picturesque village of Saint-John-Cap-Ferrat, it’s the ideal place to relax in privacy after a day at sea.

The villa rents for £100k per week and sleeps 12 across the four-bedroom five-storey house and the two-bed guesthouse, set within landscaped gardens. The impressive house is particularly popular with celebrities and HNWs looking to escape the paparazzi. Sylvie Courtinat, the villa’s manager, said: “High profile guests like to come here because the villa is very discreet, close to the sea and the clients don’t need a car to go to the beach, shopping or restaurants. One of our biggest US VIP clients liked the villa because, according to him, it was the first time that he was in a villa without any paparazzi or fans in front of the gate. It’s very difficult to find Villa O if you don’t know where it is.”

But there’s more to the property than its location. Villa O is home to two swimming pools (one of which is an eco-infinity pool), a Balinese-style pool-house, a gymnasium with fitness studio, a black granite Hammam, cinema room, bar, and several lounges and terraces for dining or entertaining. A highlight is the rooftop terrace, where guests can enjoy al fresco meals overlooking the bay.

Inside, décor is equally impressive. A glass elevator takes guests between the five-floors of the villa, while a beautiful array of sculptures and artworks, including a 25m Banksy mural, add colour to the interiors. In pride of place in the living room is a Steinway grand piano once played by Sir Elton John – if only the walls could talk!

Another factor that makes the villa so special is its commitment to an eco-friendly lifestyle. The property has its own vegetable garden where organic vegetables and herbs are grown which are then used by the villa’s in-house chefs.

“Our clients live in the luxury world, with all the latest technologies and cars, so at the villa, we try to reconnect them with the nature,” Courtinat said. “The cooking is a big part of our rental success. We can cook everything they want, but without too many calories and fat. It’s really important for us than the client feels full and happy without any grease, fat or calories. They feel the difference, especially at the end of the rental.”

Breakfast, lunch and dinner can be served in guests’ suites, on the terrace, in the dining room, on the lawn or by one of the pool, at any time guests wish, from sunset overlooking the bay to a midnight feast with lanterns. As well as chefs, guests can choose to have full access to Villa O’s staff of butlers, maids, drivers and fitness instructors, all of whom act with the utmost discretion and dedication.

A haven for the mind, body and soul, it seems like the villa in Cap Ferrat really is an escape, not just physically, but mentally and spiritually. villao.com

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PROPERTY

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All of the

LIGHTS Inside the star-studded 2nd annual Tempus Christmas Party

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tars of the showbiz and business worlds gathered at The Rumpus Room, Mondrian Hotel on Thursday 7 December to celebrate the festive season at Tempus’s second annual Christmas Party.

VIP guests and celebrities including Snatch star Luke Pasqualino, Made in Chelsea alum Ollie Locke, designer Joshua Kane, model Alexander James, Chloe and Lauryn Goodman, Daisy Robins, and artist Bran Symondson were on hand to party into the small hours.

Guests were entertained by singer Laura Doggett and Toploader – who performed their classic hit ‘Dancing in the Moonlight’ complete with a dance performance from the model star of the original music video – while enjoying treats from sponsors including vodka cocktails by premium BeringIce vodka, Luvienz Caviar Edition Champagne, and Attilus Caviar.

In addition to these brands, the star-studded event was held in collaboration with sponsors MJS Capital, and marked a new chapter in Tempus’s growth. Editor Rachel Ingram welcomed guests to the party, celebrating “this exciting year for Tempus, which started life as a watch magazine and has grown to encompass every aspect of luxury lifestyle – becoming your voice of luxury in the UK.” “As many of our friends here know, Tempus has come a long way in the last year. We’ve totally relaunched and redesigned the magazine, building on our legacy as a fine watch publication to present the very best of luxury lifestyle – from style and travel to motorsports and business,” she said.

Noting this year’s successful launch of Tempus Online, digital editor Michelle Johnson announced the publication’s »

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EVENTS plans to expand even further in 2018: “In a few short months Tempus has already carved its niche in the online luxury news sphere, and we are excited to share our plans for a new digital magazine in the coming year, packed full of exclusive, interactive content.”

Tempus managing director George Evans also announced the brand’s plans to move into e-commerce in the coming year. “We will be continuing our evolution from a print publication to an all-encompassing luxury guide that’s on your coffee table, your computer, and on the move on your mobile device, giving you up-to-date, exclusive content in real time,” he said.

“For 2018 and beyond, Tempus is proud to announce that it will be the main sponsor for the Brits Official After Party,” Evans continued, adding that Tempus is looking forward to new opportunities related to this prestigious sponsorship over the coming years.

The party was continued by Ministry of Sound DJs and canapés before an after-party lasted late into the night. tempusmagazine.co.uk

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Photo credits Photos by Dave Bennett/Getty Images and Colin Hart 1. Model Jason Ellis and Shaun Prince, CEO of Tempus Media 2. Model Alexander James and designer Joshua Kane 3. Model Victoria Clay 4. (L – R) Hak Tevfik, Tamer Hassan, Luke Pasqualino, Sean Sagar and friends 5. Singer Laura Doggett performing 6. Toploader headline at Tempus Christmas Party 7. Toploader singer Joseph Washbourne with Tempus editor Rachel Ingram 8. Daisy Robins sampling Attilus Caviar 9. Chloe and Lauryn Goodman 10. Dance from model Estelle Rubio, Toploader performing 11. BeringIce vodka

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SAVE the DATE Your luxury event calendar starts here London Boat Show

London Art Fair

10 – 14 January

17 – 21 January

Kick-starting London’s 2018 events calendar in style is the London Boat Show. While much younger than the likes of Cannes and Monaco Yacht Show, this event aims to bring the magic of the ocean to the city. Guests can look forward to displays of modern and classic boats as well as anticipated debuts from world-leading brands, and a host of entertainment, including live concerts.

If you’ve exhausted the galleries of Mayfair, head to this art fair where more than 100 lesser-known galleries will come together to display contemporary artworks from new and emerging artists. If you can’t make it to the main event at the Business Design Centre, pass by The Dorchester & 45 Park Lane to discover a special exhibit featuring works by Sir Peter Blake, Patrick Hughes, Bruce McLean, Joe Tilson, Richard Young and Brendan Neiland. londonartfair.co.uk

londonboatshow.com

Cavallino Classic 24 – 28 January If you love Ferraris or classic cars, don’t miss Cavallino Classic, a leading automobile event showcasing an incredible collection of classic Ferraris and vintage models from leading car manufacturers. Celebrating its 27th edition in 2018, the event has taken place in Palm Beach Florida since 1978 and remains a top event for enthusiasts on the east coast. cavallinoclassic.com

Vienna Opera Ball 8 February Australian Open 15 – 28 January After a short break, the world’s best tennis players are back for the biggest tournament of the season, the Australian Open. Singles champion Roger Federer will be back to defend his title as he battles it out on the courts against his greatest competitors. If you’re a tennis enthusiast, join them in Melbourne. ausopen.com

Once every year, the Vienna State Opera House (Weiner Stattsoper) takes a break from ballets and operas to host the most opulent ball in Austria, the Vienna Opera Ball. The high society event at the world-famous opera house attracts 5,000 attendees from across the globe from highprofile celebrities to local debutantes for a captivating evening like no-other. weiner-staatsoper.at

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The London Classic Car Show

Miami International Boat Show

15 – 18 February

15 – 19 February

A highlight of the annual London event’s calendar for collectors and enthusiasts alike, The London Classic Car Show is the first of several annual leading classic car events in England. More than 700 classic cars will be driven into the ExCeL Centre for the event, which will also showcase a variety of car products and memorabilia from the world’s best car manufacturers. Guests can also attend exclusive talks by world-famous guest speakers.

The biggest yachting event of the winter, the Miami International Boat Show is a stylish showcase of new and pre-owned yachts in one of the most beautiful locations in Florida. Guests can enjoy five days of showcases, entertainment, VIP parties, shopping and more. It’s a great warmup for the summer’s myriad yachting events.

thelondonclassiccarshow.co.uk

miamiboatshow.com

The 2018 BRIT Awards 21 February Britain’s biggest night in music, the BRIT Awards, is a star-studded spectacle in the capital honouring the greatest talents in the pop music world. While the awards ceremony with its packed schedule of performances is always highly anticipated, the biggest celebrations take part at the event’s after parties. Tempus is proud to announce it’s the sponsor of the official 2018 BRIT Awards after party, where we’ve got many surprises in store for our VIP guests. For more information and tickets visit: tempusmagazine.co.uk/brits

90th Academy Awards 4 March Join the world’s best actors, directors, producers and filmmakers as they vie for prestigious Oscar awards at the star-studded 90th Academy Awards in Los Angeles. Will Christopher Nolan’s World War Two feature Dunkirk take home the gong for best film or will Steven Spielberg’s The Post starring Tom Hanks and Meryl Streep sweep the board? You’ll have to wait to find out. oscars.org

Bal de la Rose 24 March Bal de la Rose, or the ‘Rose Ball’, is arguably the most important annual elite social event in Monaco. Hosted by the Monte-Carlo SBM Group, the prestigious ball is the pinnacle event of the season and is attended by the high society of Monaco, including the royal family. While the theme changes every year, the event is always glamorous, always extravagant and is your chance to mingle with the hard-to-reach inner circle of Monaco high society. montecarlosbm.com

For more exciting events, visit our website: W W W. T E M P U S M A G A Z I N E . C O . U K

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t e m p u s m a g a z i n e . c o .u k

THE DB11 VOLANTE.

ASTON MARTIN MAYFAIR Introducing Aston Martin’s most elegant convertible.

WEALTH

WEALTH

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FEMME

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|

FEMME

|

OCEAN

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OCEAN

|

SPORT

SPORT

BEAUTY, POWER & LUXURY CREATED IN LONDON

PCP

£1,299

Per month

£41,000 Customer deposit

CREATED IN LONDON

READ WORLDWIDE

READ WORLDWIDE

REPRESENTATIVE EXAMPLE 23 Monthly Payments of

Customer Deposit

Dealer Deposit Contribution

Total Deposit

Term of Agreement

On The Road Cash Price

£1,299.00

£41,000.00

£17,591.00

£58,591.00

24 Months

£152,995.00

Total Amount of Credit

Option to Purchase Fee**

Option to Purchase Payment - GMFV**

Total Amount Payable

Rate of Interest (Fixed)

Representative APR

£94,404.00

£10.00

£74,224.56

£162,702.56

3.05%

5.9% APR

ISSUE

53

BOOM TOWN

DISCOVER THE DISRUPTORS OF THE NEW WEALTH LANDSCAPE

Follow us @astonmartinwilmslow. Find out more at Stratstone.com.

ISSUE

ASTON MARTIN MAYFAIR

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113 Park Lane, Mayfair, London W1K 7AJ TELEPHONE: 020 7235 8888 www.astonmartinmayfair.co.uk

ELECTRIC DREAMS

Stratstone.com

ISSUE 53

OFFICIAL FUEL CONSUMPTION FIGURES FOR THE ASTON MARTIN RAPIDE S IN MPG (L/100KM): URBAN 13.2 (21.4), EXTRA URBAN 28.0 (10.1), COMBINED 19.9 (14.3). OFFICIAL CO2 EMISSIONS 332 G/KM.

Aston Martin Wilmslow | Water Lane, Wilmslow, Cheshire, SK9 5BQ | Tel 01625 543 030

HOW FORMULA E RACING IS BREAKING NEW FRONTIERS

1 MATT DAMON / WORLD’S RAREST GEMS / HOW TO BUY A YACHT

Official government fuel consumption figures in litres/100km (mpg) for the Aston Martin Range: urban 22.5-19.3 (12.6-14.6); extra urban 10.4-9.1 (27.2-31.0); combined 14.7-12.8 (19.2-22.1). CO2 emissions 343-298.

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ISSUE 54

Victoria (Bavaria) Limited is a credit broker/intermediary that can introduce you to a limited number of lenders to provide funding for your vehicle. They may incentivise us for introducing you to them. Finance provided by Aston Martin Financial Services and Alphera Financial Services, both trading names of BMW Financial Services (GB) Limited Summit ONE, Summit Avenue, Farnborough, Hampshire, GU14 0FB.

Finance available for Aston Martin Rapide S registered from 01/04/17. PCP (Personal Contract Plan): **Payable at the end of the agreement if you decide to purchase the vehicle (GMFV - Guaranteed Minimum Future Value). Contract mileage of 12,000 miles, excess mileage charge of 36.21p per mile. Finance is subject to status and available to over 18s in the UK (not the Channel Islands or Isle of Man). This offer may be varied or withdrawn at any time. Finance subject to status. Guarantees may be required. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply. Images shown for illustration purposes only. Test drive subject to applicant status and availability.

Victoria (Bavaria) Limited, Loxley House, 2 Oakwood Court, Little Oak Drive, Annesley, Nottingham, NG15 0DR. All information related to fuel economy data shown was obtained from official manufacturer’s testing carried out in accordance with Directive 80/1268/EEC as amended by Regulation (EC) 692/2008. Such test data is helpful for comparative purposes but is not necessarily representative of what may be achieved when driving the vehicle in non-test conditions. Offers end 30/06/17.

Victoria (Bavaria) Limited is a credit broker/intermediary that can introduce you to a limited number of lenders to provide funding for your vehicle. They may incentivise us for introducing you to them. Images used for illustration purposes only.

09/10/2017 19:11

ULTIMATE WINTER ESCAPES / LUXURY FESTIVE GUIDE / DESIGNER SKI WEAR

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