YourLuxury Africa - July 2024 by yourluxury

A FRIC A

RADICA TRAVEL L

with JESSICA NABONGO

With its exceptional design, outstanding facilities and convenient location, Steyn City is a development like no other. From golf to mountain biking, running to horse-riding, sparkling pools and popular eateries, this world ranking residential lifestyle estate has it all – including a stunning 300m lagoon complete with water activities and the convenience of a helistop. Set against the backdrop of an award-winning, indigenous landscaped 2 000 acre parkland with excellent security, this is seven-star living in style.

outstanding facilities and convenient location, Steyn City is a development like no other. From golf to mountain biking, running to horse-riding, sparkling and popular eateries, this world ranking residential lifestyle estate has it all – including a 300m lagoon complete with water activities and the convenience of a helistop. against backdrop an award-winning, indigenous landscaped 2 000 acre parkland with excellent security, is seven-star living in style.

Newly launched stands ~ The Terraces starting from R2.8m

launched stands ~ The Terraces starting from R2.8m

Book your exclusive viewing sales@steyncity.co.za | steyncity.co.za

Our July issue is inspired by a TED Talk titled How Radical Travel Will Fix Every Problem in Your Life delivered by Andrew Lee Miller in a small public library in Croatia late last year. Andrew was born in the mostly farming state of Ohio in the United States, in a village of only 3 000 people. In his talk, he shares his life story that saw him leave Ohio for the ﬁrst time ever in a very depressed state following his grandfather’s death by freak accident. Andrew said that at 19, he took an opportunity o ered to him by his Spanish teacher to go and teach a family English in Mexico. He’d never left home and had never seen people who sounded or looked di erent to him, and revealed that what was meant to be a three-month stay became a lifetime passion for travel. Not only was the scary move to Mexico transformative for him, it was also healing, helping him with his depression, which he believes is the foundation of his concept called radical travel.

Andrew deﬁnes radical travel as that of “shocking your system with spontaneous voyages to the unknown”. A typical radicaltravel game he likes to play sees him picking a colour at random before leaving home, following the ﬁrst person he sees wearing that colour at the airport, and going to the same destination as that person. Instead of seeking inspiration for where to go next from social media’s bite-sized snapshots of the real experience, his version of radical travel invites us to return to discovery that takes us o “the beaten path and instead utilises fate and the goodness of the human race to overcome fear of failure, depressive states and to realise that life is worth living”. This version of travel is less about what tests human endurance and more about travel that brings back a spirit of curiosity and wonder in travel.

A person who embodies the idea of radical travel most radically is our cover icon, Ugandan-American Jessica Nabongo, the first Black woman to document her travels to every country on the planet. Jessica has rewritten the archetype of the explorer or wanderer and talks to us about her nomadic adventures around the globe (page 26). Dion Chang has his own flavour of travel inspired by the post COVID-19 revenge-travel craze that saw people abandon all caution as pay back for all the travelling they couldn’t do due to the pandemic. He shares the interesting ways he likes to plan his travels following the eight-day rule, and other fascinating ways to make regular travel more radical (page 40). Very much in line with Andrew’s belief that travel heals, wellness and medical tourism has also seen a spike in interest from all corners of the world, and we unpack what’s available for you to try, from safaris with soul to a five-star medical destination (page 46).

This month we also have a special section dedicated to the Best of British luxury (page 32), updating you on new places to stay, eat, drink, experience, and shop (we feature Daisy Knatchbull, the ﬁrst women’s tailor to have a shopfront on Savile Row on page 48) during the Euro summer.

MY TOP PICKS

Get radical travel inspiration from our cover icon’s book, takealot.com

Green leather strap Vacheron Constantin Overseas dual time Reference 7920V/210R-B965 with translucent intense greenlacquered, sunburst satin-ﬁnished dial, vacheron-constantin.com

VANLELES’

Nile high jewellery necklace crafted in yellow gold with over 10 carats of encrusted natural white diamonds and an eight-carat ﬂawless pear-shaped, GIA-certiﬁed diamond, vanleles.com

Memo Cappadocia EDP is a tribute to the ‘fairy chimneys’ that punctuate the Cappadocia region in the heart of Türkiye. Memo is o ering a chance to win a magical Namibian stay (page 23).

EDITORIAL: EDITOR Ntokozo Maseko Ntokozo@yourluxury.africa MANAGING EDITOR Rizwana Variawa rizwana@yourluxury.africa CREATIVE DIRECTOR Kate Walters BEAUTY EDITOR Ingrid Wood ingrid@yourluxury.africa COPY EDITOR Tamlyn Cumings CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Leigh Herringer IMAGE EDITOR Coralie Elske DIGITAL EDITOR Norma Young norma@yourluxury.africa ADVERTISING & MARKETING: ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Yvonne Sha +27 (82) 903 5641 I yvonne@yourluxury.africa ADVERTISING CO-ORDINATOR Yvette Mehl + 27 (21) 439 4907 I yvette@yourluxury.africa ACCOUNT MANAGER: NATIONAL Gina van de Wall I gina@yourluxury.africa MANAGEMENT: MANAGING DIRECTOR Yvonne Sha PUBLISHER Ingrid Wood

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Jacquie Myburgh Chemaly jacquie@yourluxury.africa DISTRIBUTION & PRINT: DISTRIBUTION On the Dot, Media Support PRINTED BY CTP Printers, Cape Town for YourLuxuryPO Box 1053, Sea Point 8060, Cape Town. All rights reserved. Whereas precautions have been take n to ensure the accuracy of information, neither the editor nor YourLuxury Africa can be held liable for any inaccuracies, injury or damages that may arise. The opinions expressed in the articles may not reﬂect those of the publisher. All prices correct at time of going to print.

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Travel in functional style with a Carl Friedrik Palissy Weekender in midnight green, carlfriedrik.com

THE RADICAL TRAVEL ISSUE

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ONLINE NOW: Azura Benguerra is the first eco-friendly resort in Mozambique, with 20 villas offering tailored waterfront luxury. Read about it on YourLuxury.Africa.

MEET OUR CONTRIBUTORS

Dion is the founder of Flux Trends, an intrepid traveller (who considers seat 1G on Virgin Atlantic his lucky seat), a committed cat butler, and novice end-of-life doula.

“A travel experience that changed my perspective in a radical way was visiting Japan. It was the first trip – and destination – that made me think deeply about how a society can function and operate, in terms of mutual respect, deference, safety, and considered UX (user experience – which is palpable everywhere while there). It felt like stumbling into a parallel universe.“

See: p40

MALU LAMBERT

The award-winning wine writer contributes to a variety of publications and is a judge for Decanter, IWSC, and Concours Mondial du Sauvignon. Malu is also a regular taster for competitions, including Winemag and Platter’s.

“A travel experience that changed my perspective in a radical way was my visit to Porto, Portugal. The antiquity is palpable, juxtaposed with contemporary street art and incredible food; I loved wandering those streets. Then the Douro River, which snakes through rolling hills that typify the region, vines inching up the peaks. It was my wine studies coming to life.“

See: p33

Phila began her media career as an intern at Marie Claire, and has worked at BONA and TRUE LOVE. She’s also worked as a radio content producer, first at YFM, and for the majority of her almost 20-year career at Metro FM. She recently ventured into entertainment and lifestyle PR with her own agency, Meka Media.

“In 2016, I travelled for the first time out of Africa on my first solo trip to India. I visited the Golden Triangle, which includes Jaipur, Delhi, and Agra. It was a soul upgrade – I came back more confident and empowered to chase my dreams.“

See: p26

Sony is a lifestyle journalist with over two decades of experience and an inherent fascination for mechanical intricacies that connect the worlds of automobiles and timepieces.

“Strolling through the 600-yearold alleyways of Bukchon Hanok Village in South Korea shifted my perspective on the need to preserve centuries-old heritage amidst rapid urbanisation. This living museum – essentially a time capsule with 15th-century Korean houses impeccably preserved next to the metropolis of Seoul – made me realise how a carefully preserved legacy could foster a sense of continuity and belonging across generations.“

See: p15

DION CHANG

PHILA TYEKANA

SONY THOMAS

MONTREUX JAZZ FESTIVAL

From 5–20 July, Switzerland’s Lake Geneva becomes the backdrop for the 58th Montreux Jazz Festival. One of the world’s biggest jazz events with performances over the years by Nina Simone, Aretha Franklin, Prince, Elton John, and Stevie Wonder. Some of this year’s performance highlights include Dionne Warwick, Lenny Kravitz, Sting, and South Africa’s Grammy Award-winning Tyla. With 380 concerts over the 16-day festival, visitors are in for another iconic experience. For more info, visit montreuxjazzfestival.com.

CULTURE DIARY

SUMMER OLYMPIC GAMES

During the Paris 2024 Summer Olympic Games, on from 26 July to 11 August, it’s not only the French capital that’s on show in all her glory. The event also marks a unique collaboration with LVMH under the banner “The Art of Creating Dreams”. Celebrating the convergence of artistic excellence and sporting spirit, LVMH’s involvement highlights French savoir-faire, supports athletes, and fosters community initiatives for the youth. For more details, visit olympics.com.

FESTIVAL OF THE DHOW

Perfect for cinephiles and culture enthusiasts, the Festival of the Dhow – also known as the Zanzibar International Film Festival – is one of East Africa’s largest cultural events. Founded in 1997, the event not only celebrates film, but encompasses arts and culture from Africa, the Gulf States, India, Iran, and the Indian Ocean islands. On from 1–4 August under the theme of “Rejuvenation”, visitors can attend film screenings, workshops, musical concerts, and art exhibitions. For more info, go to their Instagram page @ziffestival.

This month, the legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express continues to enchant travellers with its timeless luxury. Journeying through Europe in opulent carriages that echo a bygone era of travel, the train, which links major cities such as London, Venice, and Paris, offers guests a unique blend of history, comfort, and scenery. Each journey on the Orient-Express is an unforgettable experience, and gourmet cuisine and impeccable service is to be expected. A perfect European summer escapade indeed. Visit belmond.com for more information.

COMPILED BY SONY THOMAS

1. The LARQ Bottle PureVis is the world’s first self-cleaning water bottle and purifier. Using patented PureVis technology, it eliminates up to 99 percent of bio-contaminants, providing clean water wherever you are. $99 at livelarq.com 2. The GoPro HERO 12 Black is the latest masterpiece in action cameras – and the brand’s most advanced camera yet. With HDR 5.3K and 4K video capabilities, upgraded HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilisation, and a wide 177-degree field of view, it’s designed for adventurers seeking unparalleled image quality. Waterproof up to 33 feet, it’s ideal for documenting underwater dives, snowy slopes, and urban adventures. Included are the HERO12 Black camera, Enduro Rechargeable Battery, mounting accessories, and USB-C cable. $299.99 (which includes 1-Year GoPro Premium Subscription) at gopro.com/en/za 3. The Pocketalk Plus Voice Translator is a compact and powerful translation device that supports more than 84 languages, including Afrikaans. It provides real-time translations, and has a camera that translates text, written words, and signs, while its conversion feature calculates exchanges for currency, length, width, and temperature. With a built-in data plan that works in over 130 countries, it’s perfect for spontaneous voyages. $299 at pocketalk.com 4. With superior sound quality, adaptive noise cancellation, and a comfortable design,

Sony’s WH-1000XM5 Noise-Cancelling Headphones help you relax and enjoy your journey, whether you’re on a plane, train, or just walking about in a busy city. R6 499 at takealot.com 5. For immersive experiences during downtime, the Meta Quest 3 VR headset o ers a portable escape into virtual worlds. With no need for a PC or console, it’s perfect for unwinding in your hotel room or exploring virtual travel experiences when physical travel isn’t possible. R15 995 at droneworld.co.za 6. The new Solis 5G Hotspot meets the demands of today’s globetrotter with lightning-fast 5G and 4G LTE speeds in over 135 countries. Forget SIM cards and contracts; Solis’ virtual network connects to the strongest signal for seamless internet access. Built rugged with an IP54 rating, up to 24 hours of battery life, and the ability to connect to as many as 16 devices, it’s the ultimate travel companion. $319.99 at soliswiﬁ.co 7. Venturing o the grid? Stay connected with the compact Garmin inReach Messenger satellite communicator. It uses the global Iridium satellite network for two-way text messaging beyond cellular coverage, ensuring contact with loved ones in remote areas. With up to 28 days of battery life and the ability to trigger an interactive SOS alert to Garmin Response in emergencies, it’s a reliable adventure companion. R6 999 at garmin.com/en-za

CLOCKWISE:

BUSH BABY

The 24-hour hand of the Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II does more than display an alternative time zone; it connects the wearer to a meaningful location, evoking emotions tied to travel. Rolex o ers two new Oystersteel versions, featuring a 24-hour graduated grey and black Cerachrom bezel insert, fastened with an Oyster or Jubilee bracelet. POA, rolex.com

SNOW AND ICE

Grand Seiko’s travel-ready Hi-Beat 36000 GMT SBGJ277 is inspired by the snowy valley, or sekkei in Japanese. The design captures the contrast between the remaining snow and the lush greenery of a summer mountain. POA, Grand Seiko Boutiques and select retailers, grand-seiko.com

DIVING DELIGHTS

Combining performance and style, Longines’ HydroConquest watches are crafted for those who love pushing boundaries and exploring new watery horizons. The watch is available in a new 43mm case with a green, blue, or black sunray dial. It is water resistant to 300 metres. R66 300, Shemer Jewellers, Bedford Centre, longines.com

CITY LIGHTS

Patek Philippe’s self-winding Calatrava Travel Time model, Ref. 5224R, features a unique 24-hour display and a dual time zone, keeping the wearer abreast of local and home time. The polished rose gold case stands out with its curved two-tier lugs and patented crown-operated correction system, replacing traditional pushers for a sleeker look. POA, patek.com

BEACH BREAKS

The Seamaster Diver 300M “Paris 2024” Special Edition is a tribute to the Games of the XXXIII Olympiad. This year marks OMEGA’s role as o cial timekeeper at the Olympic Games for the 31st time. This 42mm timepiece has a water resistance of 300 metres. R197 000 (nonbinding), omega.com

Timele TRAVELS

FROM DIVING INTO THE DEEP BLUE AND SUNBATHING ON A BEACH TO VENTURING ON SAFARI, INTO THE SNOW OR EXPLORING CITYSCAPES, OUR CURATED SELECTION OF TIMEPIECES WILL KEEP YOU ON TIME DURING YOUR TRAVEL ADVENTURES COMPILED BY DEBBIE HATHWAY

CONQUEST

BARBARA PALVIN

WHETHER YOU’RE SEEKING TIMELESS ELEGANCE OR ONE-OF-A-KIND TREASURES, THESE BOUTIQUES PROMISE A SHOPPING EXPERIENCE AS MEMORABLE AS THE JEWELS THEMSELVES

COMPILED BY

DEBBIE HATHWAY

JEWELS Journey for

LONDON

Fred Samuel’s innate aesthetic eye and determination to design everyday jewellery for women helped him create a timeless and distinctive brand. You’ll ﬁnd a FRED boutique at Harrods London on Brompton Road. Harrods promises unforgettable retail therapy across 1.1 million square feet of selling space, which warrants its own postal code.

Current Must Have:

Pretty Woman collection, POA, fred.com

PARIS

ROME

The ﬁrst three Bvlgari boutiques established in Rome were connected by the Spanish Steps. In 2014, the ﬂagship store on the Via dei Condotti was renovated, highlighting the brand’s cultural roots and ties with both ancient Greece and Rome.

Current Must Have:

Serpenti Viper one-coil 18kt rose gold ring, POA, bulgari.com

Louis Vuitton’s store on the Champs-Élysées spans an impressive 1 800 square metres across ﬁve levels, all connected by spiral staircases. Often hailed as “the world’s most beautiful avenue”, the 2km stretch symbolises Parisian elegance and is a premier destination for luxury shopping, dining, and cultural events.

Current Must Have:

Louis Vuitton Blossom Collection, POA, louisvuitton.com

MILAN

Dolce&Gabbana’s Via Montenapoleone boutique is designed to elicit baroque energy and the clarity of modernism in a setting reminiscent of a modern art gallery. The space – on the most exclusive street in the city – is described as a stage, not a shop, where experience and storytelling are the protagonists.

Current Must Have:

18kt yellow gold charm featuring a 3cm cross, with 11 gemstones of di erent cuts and settings, POA, dolcegabbana.com

The Italian capital of luxury and design is Pomellato’s home city. The brand draws inspiration from Milan’s rich identity, which is characterised by its elegant architecture and the evocative lines of its buildings and inner courtyards.

Current Must Have:

Pom-Pom collection, POA, bhhboutique.co.za, pomellato.com

GRAFF FOLLOWED ITS HIGH JEWELLERY COLLECTION

REVEAL AT HAUTE COUTURE WEEK 2024 WITH A DAZZLING CAMPAIGN LAUNCH FOR GALAXIA, A COLLECTION INSPIRED BY THE CELESTIAL BEAUTY OF THE UNIVERSE

WORDS DEBBIE HATHWAY

Gra ’s exclusive high jewellery launch at Haute Couture Week earlier this year unveiled a collection featuring magniﬁcent and rare stones. These intricate, contemporary design motifs, featuring graphic abstract lines and bold asymmetrical arrangements, were a testament to the house’s commitment to creating unique pieces. The handcrafted necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and rings, made in platinum or gold, presented each carefully selected stone in articulated minimalistic metal frameworks.

HEIRLOOM JEWELS crafted for ETERNITY of tomorrow,

“ Graff uses only the rarest and most beautiful diamonds”

Highly accomplished diamond setters in Gra ’s London workshop meticulously follow Design Director Anne-Eva Ge roy and her team’s drawings, which are developed in line with the house’s stone-led design philosophy. Sam Sherry, Workshop General Manager at Gra , shares behind-the-scenes insights into their production. “Each of our master artisans exempliﬁes knowledge, experience, passion, precision, commitment, and collaboration. These qualities are evident throughout every Gra creation, including recently completed jewellery pieces such as a Fancy Intense Yellow pear shape and white diamond crossover necklace and pair of earrings set with over 89 carats, and an intricate white diamond birdinspired ring featuring a 3.50 carat oval diamond,” says Sam. Gra uses only the rarest and most beautiful diamonds and gemstones in its jewellery creations, and they must be mounted discreetly. Every precious metal framework is an artwork, intended to reﬂect light through each stone while ensuring that it is securely in place. “Our stones are the focal point, and so any mechanisms or components are crafted to be hidden from view – or perhaps in such a way that they communicate a secret or hidden design detail known only to the wearer,” Sam comments.

Working with exceptionally rare or large gemstones, like the Colombian emeralds featured in the Galaxia campaign, can be daunting. How are challenges anticipated and managed? “Emeralds can present several challenges. These are often the result of inclusions deep below the stone’s surface, referred to as the “jardin” or “garden”. These inclusions give each emerald its unique personality; however, they also make them more delicate than diamonds, and so we treat every emerald with the utmost care and attention throughout our setting and polishing processes. We overcome potential challenges or obstacles through careful, rigorous planning and by working with artisans who are experts in their ﬁeld. Regardless of their rarity or size, every diamond and gemstone we work with is treated with the same reverence and respect,” says Sam.

He adds, “When we received the design for a solitaire ring set with an incredibly rare 17.29 carat emerald cut Colombian emerald, we used the original gouache painting presented to us by Gra ’s designers to create a maquette (or model) that was digitally designed and then printed in 3D. After reviewing, checking and testing the maquette, we could proceed with complete conﬁdence. Once the mount had been crafted in platinum, one of our most experienced master artisans was entrusted with setting and securing the emerald. The completed ring is truly exceptional.” ■

D ouble-duty

BEAUTY

PACK LIGHT AND SIMPLIFY YOUR TRAVEL ROUTINE WITH THESE FUSS-FREE MULTIPURPOSE PRODUCTS COMPILED BY INGRID WOOD

5 7 4

1 An anti-wrinkle serum-in-a-mist, Elemis

Pro-Collagen Rose Hydro-Mist, hydrates and soothes the skin while setting and refreshing make-up. R1 130, Woolworths 2 The secret for all seasons, NUXE Huile Prodigieuse Multi-Purpose Dry Oil can be used on the face, body, and hair. Add some drops to your moisturiser for extra hydration or warm a few in your hands and apply to the lengths and ends of your hair. R765, orleanscosmetics.co.za 3 Kora Organics 2-in-1 Turmeric Brightening & Exfoliating Mask is a facial in a tube. It detoxifies and gently exfoliates the skin, while organic willow bark and rosehip brighten it up. R1 350, skincolab.co.za 4 A travel essential, Heliocare 360° Mineral Tolerance Fluid SPF50 is a light, breathable mineral sunscreen with no chemical filters. Suitable for sensitive, intolerant, or rosacea-prone skin and atopic dermatitis. R627, heliocare.co.za 5 Thameen Britologne Collection Discovery Set (3x10ml) comes in three travel-size fragrances – Fanfare, Bohemian Infusion, and Bravi – each one a tribute to Covent Garden in London. R3 570, skins.co.za 6 The formulation of Byredo Rinse-free Hand Cleanser in Rose of No Man’s Land has a subtle hint of one of Byredo’s signature fragrances and leaves hands feeling fresh and clean. R650, skins.co.za 7 The all-in-one Westman Atelier Skin Activator Serum has 12 ingredients that restore, correct, and protect. A fabulous companion on a long-haul flight. R4 895, skins.co.za

MEMO GRAND HOTEL:

The journey is the destination

MEMO PARIS INVITES YOU TO TRAVEL TO A PLACE WHERE VISITORS EXPERIENCE A CHANGE OF SCENERY AND THE SLOWING DOWN OF TIME

The Memo Paris universe imagines perfume as a journey, building its identity and collection around magical destinations, intense raw materials, and high-quality natural ingredients. Now, a fictional but highly stimulating destination emerges from this olfactory brand: the Memo Grand Hotel. Each floor of this interactive digital destination is named after a Memo Paris perfume collection, and each room after a fragrance. Start your experience by taking in the garden and its rare essences, then head into the library to learn all about the perfume house and its history, or enter the kitchen which magnifies every ingredient. Every space is designed to satisfy, surprise, and delight, and each room offers a special experience. Have you booked the Irish Leather room? A very good choice – the view over the countryside is breathtaking, and you’ll feel as if you’re immersed in the green surroundings. The marvellous Marfa suite is tucked away at the very top of the hotel, with its open roof allowing you to spend the night under the stars.

Most unforgettable is the newly available Cappadocia, a beautiful troglodyte setting. Imagine a multi-coloured hot air balloon appearing on the horizon; the passengers in its basket sail above the landscape’s varied facets, swept away by its airy, scent-filled beauty. The Cappadocia fragrance makes this a reality. In Cappadocia, in the heart of Türkiye, the Earth retains the memory of an unblemished emotion, and saffron – one of the world’s most precious spices –sandalwood and myrrh surfaces on the skin. The palette is organic, carnal: white jasmine, ochre benzoin, Turkish rose, gold vanilla and tawny sandalwood. Come nightfall, a purple iris arrives and the chimney tops secretly open, releasing the scent of flowers, resins, and woods: a message to the stars. “The fragrance was born from the idea of a creamy saffron. I grew up in Spain, where this spice is widely used, and years later, during travels in the Middle East, finding it in delicious desserts always appealed to me,” says perfurmer

Gaël Montero “For Cappadocia, I wanted to revisit its richness of expression, to exalt it. By infusing it with the opulent essences of frankincense and myrrh resins; wrapping it in a floral embrace of Turkish rose, iris butter and jasmine; and finally, immersing it in the woody sweetness of Sandalwood Album, mingled with the richness of Madagascar Vanilla and Laos Benzoin,” he says on his inspirations for the scent.

TRAVEL FROM FANTASY TO REAL LIFE

You can visit the Memo Grand Hotel (memoparis.com) from the comfort of your armchair at home and set off on mystical travels around the brand’s ancient olfactory map. You also stand a chance to win a real-life luxury trip to the Namib desert. See page 23 for full details.

NAMIBIA A LUXURY STAY IN

ONE READER AND THEIR PARTNER CAN WIN A FOUR-NIGHT STAY IN THE WORLD’S OLDEST DESERT, A MAGICAL BALLOON SAFARI, AND MEMO FRAGRANCES, ALL VALUED AT OVER R80 000

The exclusive prize includes four nights at the Gondwana Collection Namibia’s luxurious ﬁve-star hotel, The Desert Grace Lodge, a sunrise hot air balloon safari over the Sossusvlei in the Namib-Naukluft National Park or the NamibRand Nature Reserve with Namib Sky Balloon Safaris, and two handdelivered Memo fragrances. The stay includes breakfasts and dinners.

SCAN QR CODE TO ENTER

HOW TO ENTER: Purchase a 75ml Memo fragrance from any selected Skins or ARC store before 31 August 2024, then scan the QR code or go to yourluxury.africa/yourwin to enter.

TERMS & CONDITIONS: Prize excludes ﬂights and hotel transfers. Entry is open to YourLuxury Africa readers who purchase a 75ml Memo fragrance before 31 August 2024. Prize is valid from 1 November 2024 to 30 June 2025. For full terms and conditions, go to yourluxury.africa/yourwin.

Rise The International of Wealth Corridors

A PRIVATE BANK'S ABILITY TO FOSTER GLOBAL CONNECTIONS IS CRUCIAL AT A TIME WHEN ULTRA-HIGH-NET-WORTH AFRICANS ARE GLOBAL CITIZENS, AND BARCLAYS PRIVATE BANK USES ITS INSIGHTS TO NAVIGATE THE COMPLEXITIES OF CROSS-BORDER WEALTH MANAGEMENT

International mobility among ultra-highnet-worth individuals in Africa is on the rise as they take an increasingly global outlook on their personal and professional lives. With family members and businesses in multiple locations across different continents, for some, the notion of ‘home’ is a dynamic one, needing equally dynamic planning and fit-for-purpose wealth management.

Barclays Bank Plc (Incorporated in England and Wales) (Reg. No: 2018/599243/10) is an authorised financial services provider under the Financial Advisory and Intermediary Services Act (FSP 50570) in South Africa and a licensed representative office of a foreign bank under the Banks Act, 1990. Barclays Bank PLC, has its principal place of business in South Africa, at Level 5, Building 3, 11 Alice Lane, Sandton.

It’s also become normal for a set of grandparents (often the originators of the family wealth) to reside somewhere in Africa, while at least one of their children lives in the UK, another in Dubai, and extended family (who are all part of the family global business) in countries like India or Singapore.

EMERGING WEALTH HOTSPOTS: DUBAI AND SINGAPORE

Dubai and Singapore are among the top destinations for relocating ultra-high-networth families globally, especially those with business interests. In the UAE, a relaxation of business regulations and its attractive golden visa programme drive the popularity of cities such as Dubai.

Singapore, meanwhile, has seen tremendous growth in the family office space over the past three to four years. The country has long been a wealth hub for families in the region, but is now attracting families from all around the world. Singapore is also emerging as a centre of tech innovation, attracting a growing number of start-ups.

GLOBAL DIVERSIFICATION REQUIRES EXPERT GUIDANCE

Wealth preservation is a top priority for global families who want to ensure their financial safety and accessibility regardless of its, or their, location. Allocating wealth across jurisdictions can

SUPPORTING BUSINESS SUCCESS

For business owners, private wealth is often inextricably linked to their businesses, and there is growing demand for institutional services as a result. These services can be across corporate banking including trade finance, payments, or working capital facilities, or investment banking support such as capital raising (public on an international stock exchange or private), or strategic M&A. In these cases, a combination of private and institutional support can mean a more seamless interaction between a family’s personal and business interests.

THE NEED FOR INNOVATIVE INVESTMENT OFFERINGS

Both competition and client needs fuel the necessity for innovative investment offerings. When it comes to overseas real estate, for example, Barclays provides UK and European bonds based on a client’s earnings in their home market, something that few other banks are able to do. It also allows for global investments in multi-asset portfolios through direct stock selection, which results in lower fees for clients.

In the private capital space, opportunities abound across sectors. Whether medtech, fin-tech, or agri-tech, many companies are on accelerated growth trajectories and are looking for capital as well as expertise that can support

“We build relationships with our clients that last generations. Wherever they are in the world, we’re thinking of their children, their grandchildren and wider family dynamics. Recognising that many of our clients are looking for meaning beyond wealth, we’re here to enable them to invest in the future and influence tomorrow with confidence,” Amol Prabhu, CEO: South Africa and Head of Private Banking: Africa

INTERNATIONAL LIVES AND LEGACIES ARE THE NEW NORMAL Ultra-high-net-worth individuals are building their lives and legacies along international wealth corridors, shaped not only by their lifestyle and geographic preferences, but also by legal and regulatory frameworks, and Africa’s ultra-wealthy investors are no exception. Many are successful business owners with connections in multiple locations — particularly the UK, Middle East, India, Singapore, and Switzerland – for their banking needs.

Most English-speaking African countries retain strong links to the UK, and these ties can be powerful for ultra-high-networth families, whose members may have attended schools or universities in the country. They also often own real estate in the UK, particularly in London.

help spread risk and mitigate the impact of any currency fluctuations, regulatory changes, or economic and political instability. It can also support future wealth creation by providing access to a wider range of investment opportunities across asset classes, geographies, sectors, and themes.

International diversification is not restricted to traditional investing (namely, equities and bonds) — real estate is often a popular choice, offering potential for income and capital returns as well as flexibility for families around where they work, live, or study. Private markets are also attracting growing interest.

Managing wealth across borders in multiple locations requires local expertise and a global perspective, and experience is needed to navigate the complexities of multi-jurisdictional tax and laws.

their journey. Many of our clients are entrepreneurs themselves and are keen to invest and support other entrepreneurs. Barclays facilitates this through its Private Assets Programme, providing our clients with access to companies within our Barclays Accelerators and Digital Eagle incubators as well as the broader Barclays eco-system.

WHAT DOES THE FUTURE HOLD?

As the international mobility of ultrahigh-net-worth individuals increases, it is incumbent on global private banks, who wish to continue providing a world-class service to support these global families, both individually and holistically across locations, platforms, products, and generations. Doing this well takes hard work, focus, and seamless collaboration. privatebank.barclays.com; amol.prabhu@barclays.com

TALES OF A NOMADIC ADVENTURER

A DIGITAL NOMAD AND TRAVEL BLOGGER EVEN BEFORE THEY WERE A THING, JESSICA NABONGO IS A UGANDAN-AMERICAN TRAVEL EXPERT WHO RECEIVED GLOBAL ATTENTION IN 2019 WHEN SHE BECAME THE FIRST BLACK WOMAN IN THE WORLD TO DOCUMENT TRAVEL TO ALL 195 COUNTRIES ON THE PLANET WORDS PHILA TYEKANA

It’s 1pm in Detroit and 7pm in South Africa when writer, public speaker, photographer, entrepreneur, and travel expert Jessica Nabongo and I speak for our interview. I’ve caught her at her “base”; her hometown and the place in which she grew up. It’s where she recharges before and after each epic trip. She’s just returned from a work trip to Paris, and I’m interested to know how she relaxes and re-energises before heading out into the world again. “Typically I have something else coming up, but it depends on how long I’m home. Luckily, I’m here for nine days, so I’ll do nothing for 48 hours, and after that, I come out of my little cave. My suitcases are flung open but I’m not unpacking them. I don’t start working out until after a couple of days when I find a routine, which includes meditating, cooking, and exercise,” she says.

“JESSICA IS A PIONEER WHO REIMAGINED THE ARCHETYPE OF THE MODERN-DAY

FEMALE EXPLORER”

Jessica’s story is simply phenomenal – a triumph of the unimaginable for most and one of perseverance, determination, and hard work. Years of endless flights, many airports (296 over the past 11 years to be exact), numerous bus and train stations, maps, new languages, food and adventures later, Jessica is a pioneer who reimagined the archetype of the modern-day female explorer.

It all started in 2017, when Jessica went on a twoweek getaway to Bali. She’d recently left the corporate world to be an entrepreneur and came across an article about a traveller who had visited every nation on Earth. Jessica realised there were others who shared her desire to travel the world, and her goal was to be the first Black woman to do it. “I did my undergrad at St John’s University in New York and then came back to Detroit and worked for two years for a pharmaceutical company. After that, I moved to Japan and taught English for a year. That’s when I started blogging; this was in 2008 – Instagram didn’t exist, Twitter had just started, and Facebook was what people were using. There were no apps on phones. The iPhone had only recently come out. When I left that job, I went to grad school and decided to just travel. I started my new blog – thecatchmeifyoucan.com

PREVIOUS PAGE: Exploring Upolu Island in Samoa, country 181 of 195 CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: In Mazar-i-Sharif, Afghanistan; La Digue, Seychelles; Bali, Indonesia; Petra, Jordan; Kakku Pagodas, Myanmar

at that time. I was just travelling and blogging, and I later went to grad school at The London School of Economics.

After that, I ended up moving with my then-boyfriend to rural Benin and worked for an NGO. We were there for about six months, and then I got a job working for the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations. The headquarters are in Rome, so I was travelling and working, and then I got a great job offer in Rome, so I ended up going back there in August 2013. I was there for a couple more months before I quit the UN and moved to Washington DC. I hated every second of it. I quit that job in 2015, and that was the last time I worked for someone. I wasn’t scared, but I asked myself what I was doing. When I started blogging, there weren’t many people doing it. I wasn’t even doing it for the public, but for my friends and family to stay updated. Strangers started reading it, and I was like, ‘that’s so weird, why are people reading my blog’?” she recalls.

“I’ve been travelling internationally since I was four, and I knew in my early 20s that I wanted to visit every country,” shares Jessica. “In February 2017 I set a deadline to finish my mission by the time I turned 35. And I did it! A lot of times, people say they want to do something and get stuck in the planning phase; they get so caught up in trying to make sure everything is exactly right that they either delay or never do the thing they wanted to do. I didn’t have anything figured out. I didn’t know how I was going to pay for it, but I knew I’d figure everything out along the way.” Jessica financed all her travels by combining savings, credit-card rewards, a Go Fund Me page, and earnings from establishing her own travel agency.

“I accumulated frequent flyer miles during my travels,” she explains. Today, she works with tourism boards around the world, and regularly travels for speaking engagements.

At the start of her mission in 2017, Jessica had already visited 60 countries, which meant she had 135 to go. She began her travels by accompanying her Ugandan parents camping around the US, and on trips to places such as Canada, Mexico, and Jamaica, as well as visits to their home country, Uganda.

It’s evident that when her parents gave their young daughter the travel bug, they had no idea what they were starting.

In navigating her way through all these countries, Jessica says she tries to immerse herself in every way, but is also aware that she’s an outsider and doesn’t delude herself into thinking otherwise. To get a thorough know-how of each culture she visits, Jessica is always conscious of connecting with local people. She never wants to offend anyone by coming into their country and acting like an expert in their territory and knows the importance of staying curious and asking questions. “A lot of people hear my voice and say, ‘Of course she’s American!’, but I don’t think about the world the way most Americans do. A big part of that is because I’m Ugandan, and even though I grew up in the US, I very much grew up in a Ugandan home and part of a wider African community. The amount I travel and the experiences I’ve had have made me more empathetic and have allowed me to move through the world with much more grace. I don’t see the value in hierarchy,” she notes.

‘Do we still celebrate “first Black”, and does it really mean anything in today’s world?’, I think out loud. Jessica gives a resounding “Yes!”, adding, “A lot of people need a blueprint to do things. That’s why I think the “first Black” thing is celebrated. What sets us apart as the first ones to do certain things is that we don’t need a blueprint. We’re doing a thing that’s based on passion or interest. We’re doing something that sits inside of us. The beautiful thing is it has inspired other people – not just Black people,

RIGHT:

Looking out over the Taj Lake in Udaipur, India

everyone. It serves as, I hope, a symbol to people that you can do whatever your heart desires. I’m not here to inspire or encourage other people to visit every country in the world. I’m here to show people that you can create the life you want to live and everything you need to do it is inside of you.”

Female adventurers who are pushing boundaries and setting records are on the rise, and solo travel for women is becoming increasingly popular. But it is impossible to not mention safety when it comes to travelling alone, even for pioneers such as Jessica. She shares that, although always vigilant and cautious, she follows regular safety tips like any other tourist. Jessica has, sadly, experienced a few frightening moments safety wise. In Miami, a police officer pointed a gun directly at her face. In Paris, someone attempted to snatch her phone right out of her hand. And while in Rome, she was terrified when a taxi driver made an unwanted advance by trying to kiss her on her mouth.

Her blog, Catch Me If You Can, has since been turned into a book with National Geographic. “Publishers rarely reach out to people to have them write books, so I was very grateful that they reached out to me. Most of the stories [in the book] aren’t on my blog. The book has 100 stories from 100 of the 195 countries I’ve visited, and there are tips, with lots of

“I’VE BEEN TRAVELLING INTERNATIONALLY SINCE I WAS FOUR, AND I KNEW IN MY EARLY 20S THAT I WANTED TO VISIT EVERY COUNTRY”

CLOCKWISE: In Mazar-i-Sharif, Afghanistan; Muscat, Oman; Shiraz, Iran

images,” Jessica says. She doesn’t like the ‘best and worst countries to visit’ question and explains that everywhere deserves to be visited. “I can tell you the places that I enjoyed visiting, but I wouldn’t label them as the best places to visit in the world. Some places I find myself going back to are Cuba, Senegal, Japan, Italy, Kenya, Brazil, and Jordan.”

As for advice for those wanting to follow in her blogging footsteps? “The important starting point for travel blogging is asking yourself what is your why,” she says. The why for Jessica, back in 2007 while working for a pharmaceutical company, was the question we all ask ourselves at some point: Is this all there is? The difference is that she didn’t just sit with the question but took action in changing her reality and realising her dreams. The rest, as they say, is a stack full of stamped-passport history. ■

Food for Royalty fit

BORN IN NIGERIA AND LIVING IN THE UK, MICHELIN STAR CHEF ADEJOKÉ

BAKARE EPITOMISES THE GREATEST FUSION OF WESTERN AND AFRICAN TASTE PALETTES

WORDS MONALISA MOLEFE

Being African is extraordinary, especially when one considers the depth of meaning of people’s names and the intentions behind them. Each name is like a prophecy spoken over one’s life every time it is uttered. Take, for instance, Adejoké Bakare; in Yoruba, Ajoke means “the one to be celebrated”, with the preﬁx “ade” signifying royalty. The combined meaning is “the one with a crown who’s going to be feted.”

Adejoké embodies the regal essence of her name, especially with the recognition of a Michelin star, which made her the UK’s first Black female chef and the world’s second to achieve this honour, bringing the essence of African – more specifically Nigerian – culinary heritage to the global forefront. With women comprising less than 25 percent of professional chefs, and only six percent in leading Michelin-starred restaurants, Adejoké is breaking barriers and redefining culinary excellence. She’s even been described as “one of the most blisteringly gifted and original chefs in the city” by journalist Jimi Famurewa in the Evening Standard

Her restaurant name, Chishuru, also has a signiﬁcant denotation, meaning ‘to eat silently’. Less literally, it refers to the silence that falls over the table when the food is so good nobody wants to speak. I had the privilege of delving into Adejoke’s insightful perspective on African symbolism, the essence of luxury, and the absorbing journey of her career.

TELL US THE STORY BEHIND CHISHURU’S LOGO… I designed the logo myself. It’s three Nsibidi characters, each denoting water. Nsibidi is a system of proto-writing [like hieroglyphics] developed by the Ekpe secret society from south-east Nigeria. The logo means three waters, symbolising the way I’m using Yoruba, Igbo, and Hausa culinary traditions in my kitchen.

YOUR WEBSITE SAYS CHISHURU IS “NOT A FINE-DINING RESTAURANT”. CAN YOU ELABORATE ON THIS?

My ambition was always that Chishuru should feel homely and welcoming – so many of the traditions of ﬁne dining run against that. Also, since winning our Michelin star, we’ve had a small number of customers coming in with strange expectations – that we shouldn’t play background music, or there should be a sta member constantly topping up your wine and water. Michelin recognised some years ago that you can get great food in informal settings, and you don’t need to have linen tablecloths or a man in a golden grapes badge upselling you on wine to get a star.

WHERE DO YOU GET THE INSPIRATION FOR YOUR DISHES? I was born and raised in Nigeria, but there’s no such thing as ‘Nigerian cuisine’ – it’s a huge country with many people and culinary traditions that cross borders. For example, you’re more likely to ﬁnd some northern Nigerian dishes in northern Ghana than southern Nigeria. My parents are Yoruba and Igbo respectively, and I grew up in a Hausa area. At Chishuru, you see elements of all those culinary traditions on our menu.

WOULD YOU SAY YOUR FOOD IS AUTHENTICALLY NIGERIAN?

I’m not setting out to create an authentic version of the food of my heritage. I’m just trying to present a version of the dish in a London context with the right presentation and professional

cooking techniques. I describe myself as ‘a Londoner by way of Nigeria’, and I guess my food reﬂects that. WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE DISH TO PREPARE? One dish that I’ve been making since the beginning is ekuru. It’s a wild watermelon seed cake, topped with a pumpkin seed pesto and served with Scotch bonnet sauce. Like a lot of my food, it’s a little London twist on a dish from my childhood.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR WINE SELECTION PROCESS… My food often has intense ﬂavours, so we identiﬁed quite early on that wines with freshness and aromatic intensity would work best. High tannin and high acid wines don’t work, nor do wines with lots of evidence of oak. Wines with age and lots of tertiary characteristics

from South to South Africa Place

THIS BOUTIQUE LUXURY HOTEL IN LONDON’S VIBRANT EAST END IS A MIX OF TRADITIONAL CHIC AND CONTEMPORARY COOL WORDS JARED RUTTENBERG

The UK capital is home to an endless array of hotels – my new favourite being the ﬁve-star South Place Hotel, a Central London establishment that ﬂuently blends playfulness, business, and luxury. During the week, trendy suited Londoners enjoy the hotel spaces, and at the weekends the ambience slips into convivial cool.

South Place has a range of rooms, with the suites being the most sought-after. All o er the luxurious trimmings you’d expect, and the glamorous marble bathrooms and comfortable workspaces are brilliant touches.

The hotel falls under the London hospitality group D&D, which boasts

don’t complement the food, which is why you won’t see anything older than about six years on our wine list. We focus solely on French wines, and we’re the only restaurant in London serving a romorantin by the glass. We have a loin de l’oeil, three savagnins, and two Savennières on the list. We come back more and more to the Loire and the Jura regions. The list is entirely natural, but you’d never know. We’re particularly proud of Pierrick Bouley’s Volnay, which is about as natural as you can get, and shows just how good you have to be to make a delicate and precise wine without chemicals.

WHAT IS LUXURY TO YOU? To Yorubans there are di erent deﬁnitions of wealth, and one of them is wealth in the sense of community and family. That’s what

a string of iconic London eateries, one of them being South Place’s Michelin-starred Angler. The seafood restaurant o ers chic indoor dining and a top-ﬂoor terrace. For more casual dining, 3SP serves up hearty and enticing options.

There’s also a dedicated spa sanctuary with steam, sauna, and treatment rooms, as well as a 24-hour gym for the ﬁtness crew. Make sure to browse the website ahead of your stay – the hotel always has a stream of exciting events and dining deals on o er. Then of course,

luxury feels like to me: to be surrounded by friends, family, and supporters. WHAT’S BEEN YOUR BIGGEST OBSTACLE? London landlords were not interested in having a West African restaurant in their premises. We were ﬂatly refused sites we wanted, and for a while with our current site, it looked like the deal would fall through and we’d lose everything. Summer in 2023 was very challenging indeed! The answer was persistence and self-belief. I just refused to give up.

YOU’RE THE FIRST BLACK FEMALE CHEF IN THE UK AND SECOND IN THE WORLD TO RECEIVE A MICHELIN STAR. HOW SIGNIFICANT IS THIS TO YOU? You can’t be what you can’t see. I hope my star inspires others to put themselves forward. ■ chishuru.com

key London landmarks such as the Spitalﬁelds and Borough Market, London Bridge, Tower of London, and St Pauls are all within a pleasant 20 to 25-minute walk. The best part? Possibly the delightfully entertaining General Manager Dean Culpan – a proud South African export who stands at the helm of this hotel. He’s a raconteur with a bevy of stories up his sleeve – look out for the elegantly groomed gent and make sure to drop a ‘howzit’.

■ southplacehotel.com

the Chronicles of Mousehall

SYNONYMOUS WITH FINE WINE IN SOUTH AFRICA, THE JORDAN FAMILY HAS ACQUIRED AN ANCIENT FARMSTEAD IN THE UK’S EAST SUSSEX, AND 2024 MARKS THEIR SECOND CONSECUTIVE WINE HARVEST IN THE ENGLISH COUNTRYSIDE

WORDS MALU LAMBERT

Mousehall is a family-run distillery and winery in England, led by Gary and Kathy Jordan and run together with their daughter Christy. The restored Mousehall Oast also o ers accommodation – once upon a time, it was a traditional oast house used for drying out hops.

The sun is setting when we arrive, casting the already magical scene in an even more ethereal light. An ancient dawn redwood frames the manor. The tree is extremely rare, dating back to the Mesozoic period about 65-million years ago. From here, bright yellow da odils lead the way. Mousehall dates back to 1086, and was named after the ﬁrst traceable owner, James de Mouleshale, who inhabited it in the 11th century. Gary calls me over to show me symbols scratched into the oak beams propping up the crumbling bricks. Witches’ marks to deter evil spirits. Sunken into a wall,

STAY

Walk through the wardrobe and into the fairytale world of the Mousehall Oast. Only an hour’s train ride from London, it is surrounded by ancient woodlands, hedgerows and vineyards, in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The 18thcentury Oast features three en-suite bedrooms, an open-plan dining and sitting room with a wood-burning stove, and a kitchen.

Relax in the copper bath, and watch the snow fall through the skylights.

Perhaps, with a C.S Lewis book in-hand.

a moss-covered stone goblin leers through the centuries.

“It was neglected and overgrown,” says Kathy of the property when they purchased it in 2017. Luckily, they’d had the same experience with their Stellenbosch estate. “We did the same with Jordan Wine Estate – we turned it around.” The Jordans were drawn to this property for the promising terroir. Gary, a trained geologist, identiﬁed it as prime for viticulture with soils of Tunbridge Wells –sandstone, clay, chalk, and iron deposits. The focus is on sustainability for both the wines and the spirits. The vineyard is planted to yield chardonnay, pinot noir, and meunier varietals. Eighteen Dorper sheep – a South African breed – mow between the rows as part of the regenerative farming plan, and nine beehives are on the farm.

We head o to take in some of the

12-acres, along a footpath that is said to have been an ancient drovers’ route. The lane winds past the Tidebrook stream, after which the Jordans have named their maiden wine range, released this May. We pass the Oast house with the emblematic mouse on its cowl, stirring in the breeze. We’re pursued by ducks as we make our way to the distillery and winery, which is situated in a converted barn. Next door to this is a botanical garden for their spirits.

“We often joked that Mousehall was like Narnia,” shares Christy later. “We didn’t realise that this was closer to the truth than we imagined.” Some locals reached out to the family, providing information that C.S Lewis’ publisher proofread all of the great author’s books in the study at Mousehall, including The Chronicles of Narnia. “We are now certain Mousehall is a magical place.” ■

mousehall.com

Wgolden the standard of later living

ith its coveted location just off the King’s Road, Auriens Chelsea is a prime property investment if you’re over 65 and are looking to invest in your future. Once a 16th century playground for royalty, renowned for its horticultural history and a hub of creativity in the 60s, the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea has long been loved for its village charm, boutiques, top restaurants and galleries. It’s also home to the prestigious RHS Chelsea Flower Show, during which time the surrounding streets of Chelsea become a floral wonderland as shop windows and buildings are adorned with exquisite floral scenes.

But Auriens is more than a chic residential address with easy access to stylish London life. It embodies the gold standard in later living with a bespoke blend of luxury apartment living, beautifully designed onsite facilities, and a philosophy to enrich all aspects of the residents’ lives.

One of Auriens Chelsea's top priorities is health and wellbeing. It offers bespoke

AURIENS CHELSEA HAS REDEFINED THE CONCEPT OF LUXURY LATER LIVING AND OFFERS DISCERNING BUYERS SO MUCH MORE THAN A CHIC ADDRESS IN THE HEART OF PRIME LONDON

wellness programmes that are tailored to suit your individual needs, designed by top health and fitness experts who champion active ageing. The on-site facilities include a 15-metre pool, gym and personal trainers, a rock salt sauna specialising in halotherapy, and a luxury spa. In addition, you’ll have access to a convenient hair and beauty salon where a traditional wet shave is available.

No detail is overlooked by the teams at Auriens, and this means giving you a lifestyle that’s as full or relaxing as you wish. A full social calendar and inspiring experiences include cellar tastings, music recitals, talks and comedy evenings throughout the year. You can also enjoy the use of the private cinema and private dining room, or simply relax in the library or lovely courtyard garden.

Culfords restaurant and bar is at the heart of the Auriens Chelsea community. Open to residents and invited guests, it’s perfect for casual lunches, celebratory dinners, and traditional Sunday roasts. Chef Matt Tsistrakis, former head chef of The Savoy, keeps his focus on light and uncluttered cuisine, highlighting the best local and seasonal produce.

“Auriens Chelsea has set a new standard in modern later living,” says Angelique de Rauville, CEO of Handful of Keys and partner to Auriens. “It’s the epitome of quality independent living, and we aim to inspire and elevate expectations within this exclusive community.”

There are a range of apartments available, with a one-bedroom starting price of £2,75m. It is an ideal opportunity for discerning South Africans entering the next chapter of their lives. Visit auriens.com for more information.

TOASTING VIRGIN ATLANTIC’S 40 YEARS OF FLYING HIGH

In June, Virgin Atlantic celebrated its 40th birthday, and in honour of the ruby anniversary, the airline has introduced some creative initiatives that continue to shake up the industry.

It all began on 22 June 1984, when Virgin Atlantic carried its first passengers from London to New York with the promise of something exciting and di erent. “Virgin Atlantic was created to provide a bright red, fun, friendly, fabulous choice that made flying better for everyone,” says Sir Richard Branson, Virgin Atlantic Founder and President. “We worked out all the things we could do di erently; from our planes, our Clubhouses, our in-flight experience, and most importantly our people. Now, 40 years – and 21 million glasses of champagne served – later, that rebellious spirit lives on.”

million glasses of champagne

In celebration of that spirit, the airline’s newest Airbus A330neo has been named Ruby Rebel in honour of Sir Richard Branson, and is a symbol of Virgin Atlantic’s desire to do things di erently. The brand-new flying icon includes nods to Sir Richard’s career and famed business ventures through its design, while the punk styling reflects the airline’s Vivienne Westwood uniform, which is still worn by its cabin crew today. A unique 40th birthday logo appears across new planes, inspired by the bold stripe on Virgin Atlantic’s first aircraft, Maiden Voyager.

PAINTING THE SKIES

RED

JOIN THE PARTY

It all starts with Virgin Atlantic’s award-winning flagship London Heathrow Clubhouse, which first opened its doors in 2006. Here, Upper Class customers can enjoy an exclusive 40th birthday beer. Locally brewed in Wimbledon with English Maris Otter and Cara malt, the zesty pale ale has a smooth finish and punches above its weight.

Across all Clubhouses, customers can indulge in the new Maiden Voyager cocktail, named after Virgin Atlantic’s ﬁrst plane that ﬂew between London Gatwick and Newark in 1984. Fruity and fun, Maiden Voyager is a modern take on the iconic ’80s Woo Woo cocktail with vodka, peach puree, fresh lime, grenadine, egg white, and peach bitters.

COCKTAIL HOUR

BOARDING TIME

TIME TRAVELLER

The airline is also delving into its heritage with a display of cabin crew uniforms from the last four decades. The display is in the London Heathrow Clubhouse, and showcases archived uniforms designed by the likes of Arabella Pollen, Elizabeth and David Emmanuel, and John Rocha, as well as the current iconic design honouring the late Dame Vivienne Westwood, which debuted in 2014.

Virgin Atlantic’s signature cocktail, the Virgin Redhead, is now available onboard in all cabins for the ﬁrst time – complimentary in Upper Class and for purchase in Premium and Economy. The delicious tipple has long been a favourite in the Clubhouse and makes its onboard debut with ruby-red ﬂair, featuring gin, mixed berries, a twist of lemon, and pop of prosecco.

FANCY SOME TEA?

Virgin Atlantic’s renowned Mile High Afternoon Tea has also been given a ruby makeover. High Flyers on select ﬂights where Mile High Tea is served can enjoy a 40th-themed spread of delicious treats and special drinks.

SPECIAL EDITION

The airline has partnered with Bottega to release a limited number of special-edition prosecco bottles, available in 750ml and 200ml, with a bespoke 40th-birthday design. The larger bottles can be pre-ordered through Virgin Atlantic’s Retail Therapy (shopvirginatlantic.com), while the smaller bottles are available for purchase onboard in all cabins. Stock is limited.

virginatlantic.com

In response to frequent requests for travel essentials, Virgin Atlantic has launched its ﬁrst-ever lifestyle collection, in collaboration with leading sustainable British designers Fenella Smith and Oliver Co.

Premium items include the iconic Queen of the Skies jumper, available in classic navy and cream, which was inspired by the Fly Virgin Atlantic sweatshirt famously worn by Princess Diana in the 1980s. The collection also features a jumper emblazoned with the airline’s LGBTQ+ icon, Oscar, who features on the side of Virgin Atlantic’s Rain Bow plane. The aircraft is part of Virgin Atlantic’s long-standing support of the LGBTQ+ community, most recently updating its gender identity policy, which gives its sta the option to choose which of the iconic uniforms best represents them.

The rest of the range includes a luxury canvas travel tote, flight bag, and T-shirts with the airline’s iconic flying icons, a runway-ready pouch, highflyer passport holders, luggage tags, and Virgin Atlantic playing cards. Each are designed with Virgin Atlantic’s instantly recognisable red seamlessly woven throughout. shop.virginatlantic.com

TRAVEL IN STYLE...

A FELINE

AS PART OF OUR BEST OF BRITISH THEME THIS MONTH, OUR WHEELS CONTRIBUTOR

TOOK THE JAGUAR F-PACE

P400E R-DYNAMIC PLUG-IN

HYBRID ELECTRIC VEHICLE (PHEV) FOR A SPIN

WORDS EDWARD MOLEKE MAKWANA

on the prowl

yourluxury.africa

Spending a few days with the Jaguar F-Pace P400e PHEV felt like experiencing a wild cat with dual personas. On city streets, she prowls with quiet sophistication, akin to a stealthy jaguar strategising her next move. Yet on the open road, she reveals a spirited and robust character, eager to sprint and hunt. If you drive this PHEV, be prepared to feel as if you’re taming an internal combustion engine (ICE) so reﬁned it sounds like a three-litre six-cylinder engine.

Equipped with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, this mid-size executive PHEV and sport utility vehicle (SUV) produces a combined 297kW of power and 640Nm of torque from its petrol engine and 76kW electric motor. Powered by a 13.6kWh lithiumion battery, the advanced electric motor achieves an impressive 0-100km/h sprint in just 5.3 seconds.

When fully charged, the F-Pace P400e PHEV can drive up to 53km on all-electric power, perfect for a daily commute of 30 kilometres without needing a recharge. However, this is

90 YEARS OF JAGUAR:

A SNEAK PREVIEW OF THE F-PACE 90TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION

This review of the F-Pace P400e PHEV coincides with Jaguar’s announcement of the F-Pace 90th Anniversary Edition, celebrating nine decades of its automotive innovation. The F-Pace, Jaguar’s ﬁrst SUV, holds a notable place in its heritage. The 90th Anniversary Edition, based on the R-Dynamic

relatively low compared to other brands in the luxury PHEV segment. Fast Charging (32kW DC) is capable of delivering a 0-80 percent charge in 30 minutes, while a domestic 7kW wall box can provide a charge of 0-80 percent in as little as one hour and 40 minutes.

The F-Pace P400e PHEV I tested is paired with Jaguar’s eight-speed automatic gearbox, controllable using the steering wheel shift paddles. On dynamic roads, it o ered exciting driver engagement as I controlled the gear change ratios. With all-wheel drive as standard, the Intelligent Driveline Dynamics provided a rear-wheel-drivebased performance. Although I noticed the rigidity and extra weight of the F-Pace 400e PHEV due to the electric motor and conventional engine, the ride improved with speed, making it a rather satisfying car to drive. It’s ideal for someone who wants to enjoy the best of both worlds – the ICE and electric mode – without feeling guilty about emitting too much CO2 all the time. My test car was priced at R1 982 300, which includes a standard ﬁve-year/100 000km Jaguar Care Plan and warranty.

variant, features unique badging and commemorates Jaguar’s transition to an all-electric luxury brand by 2025.

Inside, the car o ers luxurious features, including supportive sports seats with contrast stitching, ebony headlining, and aluminium interior trim. It also comes standard with advanced features such as a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, 20" Gloss Black alloy wheels, a Meridian™ Surround Sound System, and a 3D Surround Camera.

In South Africa, it is exclusively available in the D200 R-Dynamic derivative and is currently available to order online or at any JLR dealership. Pricing starts from R1 476 900.

As Jaguar moves towards an all-electric future, one wonders if the electric vehicle era will allow them to o er a driving experience that stays true to its heritage, or will it be like watching a wild cat hunt with your earphones on? Only time will tell. ■ jaguar.co.za

LESSONS REVENGE TRAVELLER from a

IN 2022, I EMBRACED THE “REVENGE TRAVEL” TREND AND INADVERTENTLY STUMBLED UPON A TRAVEL FORMULA WHICH HAS COMPLETELY CHANGED THE WAY I PLAN MY TRIPS

WORDS & IMAGES DION CHANG

“Revenge travel” became a global phenomenon once the travel restrictions were finally lifted after two years of lockdown. People threw caution to the wind and blew their budgets to celebrate escaping the confines of the pandemic.

At the time, I received a once-in-a lifetime “revenge travel” invitation from friends who had rented a villa in Corfu, Greece. “Why don’t you join us for a week?”, they asked. This wasn’t just any old villa, but one perched on the highest point of the island, complete with tiered gardens, an infinity pool, sundecks, and spectacular views of the Mediterranean. It would have been rude to not accept.

ABOVE:

Corfu’s Old Town

RIGHT:

Getting to Corfu from the southern tip of Africa is tricky. The 24-hour trip consisted of two layovers –first in Istanbul and then in Athens – before catching a small propeller plane to the island. Breaking the return journey seemed like a sensible thing to do, so I opted for a two-night stopover in Athens on the way back. It felt like a good dovetail: same culture, but a bustling urban experience to counterbalance relaxed island life. It turned out to be the perfect combination.

The Durrell’s family home, known as the White House

Corfu, I discovered, is different to the whitewashed Greek islands you find in the Aegean Sea. Situated off the western mainland of Greece in the Ionian Sea, very close to Albania, it has a chequered history which gives it a unique micro-culture. In Medieval times, the island was regularly attacked, raided, and occupied by Goths, Saracens, and Normans, and most notably occupied and ruled by the Venetians for four centuries, giving it a distinct Italian history and architectural aesthetic.

Today, there’s an omnipresence of the British Durrell family, brought to life most recently in the 2016 comedy/drama television series, The Durrell’s of Corfu. Living in Corfu from 1935 to 1939, the family’s experience was chronicled by Gerald Durrell, the youngest sibling, in three semi-fictionalised memoirs known as The Corfu Trilogy – the most famous of which is My Family and Other Animals. The books and subsequent television series have ensured a steady flow of tourists to the island, all keen to follow in the footsteps of the family.

LEFT:

Faliraki Beach in

Corfu’s Old Town

BELOW & RIGHT:

Dion enjoys lunch in one of Corfu’s idyllic coves

The Durrell’s’ house, known as the White House, is situated in Kalami on the northeast coast of the island, and in its restored state, now operates as a restaurant.

I spent a day in the Kalami cove, and it quickly became obvious why the family fell in love with this island. It’s small, but vertiginous, and is covered with more than four million olive trees, interspersed with tall, thin cypress trees and surrounded by crystal clear waters.

The geography of the island encourages interesting day trips to the various coves and beaches that differ depending on the side of the island: lapping waters and pebble beaches face the mainland and robust seas and sandy beaches face the Ionian Sea. While you can make these trips by car, hiring a small boat and going from cove to cove in search of the perfect lunch spot is the ideal way to do it. Each restaurant has its own landing pier where you are eagerly waved in and assisted with docking, but once docked, you are obliged to eat there – so choose wisely!

“ The stopover becomes a deep but quick immersion: a pleasant sensory overload that makes you feel as if you’ve had a separate holiday”

makes you feel as if you’ve had a separate holiday. I have very distinct memories of both Corfu and Athens, even though the time spent in each place was disproportionate.

I’ve previously used this two-destination stopover concept, but in reverse. For example, I’ve started an island holiday in Thailand with a two-night stopover in either Bangkok, Singapore, or Hong Kong, depending on the airline I use. It’s the same change of pace, but somehow ending with a stopover provides a very different result.

THE DUAL DESTINATION STOPOVER

A week of this idyllic cove hopping was just enough to relax into holiday mode completely and get a real sense of Corfu’s persona, but I was left still wanting a bit more – like an indulgent truffle to finish off a good meal. The two-night stopover in Athens on the way home was that perfect indulgence.

Athens was completely different to Corfu – in terms of pace, population, and urban culture – but that’s the point of the stopover: you want it to be a radically different experience.

As it’s not possible to experience everything a city can offer in just 48 hours, I booked a hotel in Athens’ old city centre. This allowed me to do the tourist thing – visit the Acropolis and its much vaunted museum – but also experience street culture and, of course, the food.

It’s surprising what you can fit into a two-night stay. Depending on your arrival and departure times, you can sometimes stretch almost three full days out of a two-night stopover, so juggle your flights where possible. When you’re mindful that your time is limited in a new environment, you tend to embrace whatever new experiences come your way. The stopover then becomes a deep but quick immersion: a pleasant sensory overload that

Ever since my trip to Corfu, I’ve been testing this theory. My most recent trip was a (re)visit to Paris and Amsterdam for a milestone birthday treat. I’ve visited both cities many times and had the pleasure of living in Paris many years ago, so this was a personal pilgrimage of sorts to two of my favourite cities.

Flying to Paris via an Air France and KLM codeshare made a stopover in Amsterdam a no-brainer. As I’m familiar with both cities, I didn’t need to visit the tourist attractions, and focused on living like a local (thanks Airbnb), and visiting new galleries and exhibitions (like Inventing Impressionism at Paris’ Musée d’Orsay).

To create a very different transitory experience, instead of flying from Paris to Amsterdam, I decided to take the Eurostar. Train travel is underrated and actually saves you the time and stress that short, inter-city flights would create. You can arrive at the train station half-an-hour before departure and you travel from city centre to city centre – and thanks to the joy of borderless travel in the EU, there’s no time wasted on clearing customs and passport control.

On this trip however, I altered my stopover formula and booked four-night stays in each city. It only reconfirmed that a weeklong stay followed by a short stopover is ultimately the magic formula. Although I loved the time spent in both cities, I should have kept Amsterdam as a tail-end indulgence and spent more time in my soul city, Paris. But at least I have tested proof of concept, and will steadfastly adhere to my stopover formula from now on.

TOP:

The Acropolis Museum

TOP RIGHT:

The changing of the guard in Athens

ABOVE & LEFT:

The scenic streets and delicious cuisine draw many tourists to the Greek capital

My next trip will be to Portland, Oregon, for a family wedding. It’s an incredibly long haul to America’s west coast, but it’s a destination that’s new to me, so my travel sensors are already twitching. The wedding will serve as a long-awaited family reunion, which means I’ll be staying there for at least a week. But I’ve always wanted to go on an architectural tour of Chicago, and have already reconfigured my homeward bound journey. Ever since I started to use this stopover formula, the possible dual-destination permutations have unleashed a new sense of wanderlust.

THE EIGHT-DAY JOY PLATEAU

I’ve never understood trying to cram a two-week annual holiday into the December holiday season – especially when everyone else is doing the same. To me, that’s not a restful or rejuvenating

WHAT TIME OF YEAR TO TRAVEL?

I’ve always been a fan of travelling between seasons, locally and internationally. I’m lucky to not have to adhere to school holidays, and prefer to travel in spring or autumn, especially if I’m heading to the northern hemisphere.

If you travel in spring, there’s tangible energy in the air. Locals are emerging from winter hibernation, as is plant life (think tulip season in Amsterdam or cherry blossom season in Japan), and temperatures are moderate. The mood is anticipatory.

My personal favourite is to travel in autumn, which I did when I travelled to Corfu. Again, the weather is moderate, but the frenetic summer holiday season is done and dusted. The tourist rush is over, local businesses have made their seasonal money and are more relaxed, and there is a general air of calm and contentment.

This atmosphere of affability can only enhance that feeling of travel euphoria.

holiday. I feel the same about a long weekend. Your brain takes two to three days to switch into holiday mode, so you return to work just as you begin to shut down.

Because of this, I looked into the science of travel, and what the optimal time would be for a holiday. A study published by the Journal of Happiness Studies kept coming up and surprisingly, feelings of joy and improved mental and physical wellbeing for travellers peak at around day eight – even if you are on a longer holiday of two weeks or more. This euphoria then returns to baseline after being back at work for a week.

Interestingly, according to the study, holidays longer than eight days don’t produce noticeably better outcomes or longer-lasting effects. The reason for this sweet spot is that after eight days,

experiences – however new – begin to feel normalised. But less than eight days, and you don’t have enough time to disconnect from your daily grind. The recommendation is to take more frequent holidays rather than try for an extended travel experience. Keep in mind that this optimal eight-day concept would exclude travel time, so in essence, you’re looking at a 10-day travel formula for most longhaul destinations.

Easing into your eight-day joy plateau and then throwing in a short but very different experience is like having a shot of caffeine to extend riding the wave of travel euphoria, and the memories you retain are more vivid because your brain is under the illusion that you’ve had two separate holidays. ■

Dion Chang is the founder of Flux Trends. For more trends, visit fluxtrends.com

ABOVE & BELOW: Scenes from Paris and Amsterdam indicate how much can be seen in a short time

onthe wings of dreams

SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH, ADVENTURE, AND RESPECT FOR NATURE UNDERPIN THE RECORD-BREAKING FEATS OF THREE PICCARD GENERATIONS. NEXT UP FOR THE YOUNGEST, BERTRAND, IS A NONSTOP FLIGHT AROUND THE GLOBE IN A HYDROGEN-POWERED PLANE

WORDS DEBBIE HATHWAY

In the realm of extraordinary travel, the Piccard family’s exploits stand out: the patriarch Auguste was the first man into the stratosphere; Jacques, his son, was the first man to reach the greatest ocean depth; and Bertrand, his grandson, the first to fly nonstop around the world in a hot air balloon and a solar-powered aircraft without fuel. Now, at 66, Bertrand, a psychiatrist, climate advocate, cleantech pioneer, and sought-after public speaker, is preparing for his next groundbreaking adventure: a nonstop flight around the globe in a green hydrogen-powered plane – a feat that underscores the family's commitment to pushing the boundaries of exploration and environmental sustainability.

“ It’s like giving back the inspiration that I received myself when I was a child. It’s magical”

Exploration, often referred to as the “sport of scientists” by Auguste, is a fundamental part of the Piccard’s DNA. Surrounded by the “fantastic inspiration” of childhood heroes and house guests like Wernher von Braun, Charles Lindbergh, and Scott Carpenter, Bertrand learnt the art of relentlessly chasing his passions and dreams.

What struck him was their normalcy, their friendliness, and their willingness to share their experiences. They were patient and perseverant, qualities he admired and aspired to. “I owe them everything I am today,” reflects Bertrand.

Those memories still motivate him through times of doubt and failure – like the first two attempts to fly around the world in Breitling Orbiter I and 2. “Today, what pleases me so much, is learning how many people were inspired by the successful Breitling Orbiter 3 flight in 1999. School children were following its progress, learning about geography and physics, having their eyes opened to the world. For me, it’s like giving back the inspiration that I received myself when I was a child. It’s magical.”

While Breitling’s support and celebration of Bertrand's achievements are wellknown, the Piccard association with the brand runs deeper. “Breitling was created the year that my grandfather was born –in 1884. My father took a member of the Breitling family in his submarine and, well, there were a lot of connections. I would

OPPOSITE:

The Breitling Orbiter 3 – the hot air balloon in which Bertrand travelled around the world

ABOVE: Bertrand (left) and Breitling CEO Georges Kern with the Breitling Orbiter 2

have never gone into the real world of exploration without Breitling. They trusted me. Nobody else believed in me at the time. And now the brand supports my Solar Impulse Foundation, which aims to identify solutions that can protect the environment in an economically viable way. This is also something that I owe them,” Bertrand acknowledges.

The brand has since announced its support of Bertrand’s Climate Impulse project, which aims to demonstrate the potential of clean aviation technologies and counter the notion that aviation must be banned to protect the environment. With meticulous planning and innovative technology, he hopes to circumnavigate the world nonstop in a green, hydrogenpowered plane in 2028, showcasing that sustainable solutions are within our grasp. Bertrand’s adventure with Breitling began in an unexpected yet fortuitous manner. As he prepared for the Transatlantic Challenge, he reached out to Teddy Schneider, the owner of the luxury watch brand at the time, for a sponsorship. Teddy, in high spirits as it was his birthday, agreed to support him – not for marketing purposes, but out of goodwill. Grateful for the support, Bertrand emblazoned the logo on his gear, which garnered significant visibility when he won the race.

Encouraged by Teddy’s enthusiasm, Bertrand proposed an even more ambitious project: to fly around the world nonstop in a hot air balloon. Thus, the Breitling Orbiter was born. The first two attempts, however, were fraught with challenges and failures. Competing against formidable figures like Richard Branson and Steve Fossett, Bertrand’s initial endeavours didn’t succeed. But, true to his philosophy, each failure was an opportunity to learn and improve. He and his team meticulously re-engineered every aspect of the balloon, from its shape to its insulation, and even sought permission personally from China to optimise their flight path. Their relentless pursuit of perfection eventually achieved the historic 45 000km circumnavigation in Breitling Orbiter 3. “Our competitors subcontracted the balloon and project to engineers and they came only to fly. After

every failure, there was never a change. They continued with the same wrong strategy, the same wrong technology and they failed each time for the same reason. So, that was really a big learning. If you fail, improve before trying again. You need to be perseverant and not stubborn,” he says.

However, Bertrand sees ballooning as more than a physical challenge; it’s a metaphor for life. The layers of wind that a balloon navigates represent its various influences and challenges. One must rise or fall to change direction, shedding unnecessary weight – much like dropping certitudes and outdated beliefs. He says this philosophical approach helped him navigate both the technical and spiritual aspects of his journey, underpinned by his background in psychiatry, psychotherapy, and hypnosis.

Meanwhile, Bertrand has amassed a collection of Breitling watches over the years, each representing different chapters of his life. For Bertrand, the watches represent a shared spirit of exploration and innovation, symbols of safety, reliability, and adventure. The Emergency watch, for example, gave him a sense of security during his expeditions. It’s also his watch of choice whether he is skiing, mountaineering, or kite surfing.

“Even if there was no sponsorship from Breitling, I would buy their watches because I love their style. It’s about aviation, exploration, sport, adventure. And now, of course, it’s amazing to have the Aerospace, a watch that contains part of my balloon visible through the caseback, to celebrate the success I had 25 years ago. It’s the most beautiful reward and I know that for all the collectors and people who follow this adventure and want a very special watch, they have it in this new commemorative Aerospace B70 Orbiter. It’s really something you can never have elsewhere.”

Bertrand Piccard’s story is a remarkable blend of perseverance, technological innovation, and a passion for exploration. His partnership with Breitling symbolises the convergence of pioneering spirit and craftsmanship, inspiring future generations to dream big and push the boundaries of what’s possible. ■

In search of Wholeness

AS OUR PERSONAL WELLBEING BECOMES MORE OF A PRIORITY THAN EVER, WE SHINE A SPOTLIGHT ON WELLNESS TRAVEL AND SOME OF THE RETREATS ON OUR RADAR

WORDS INGRID WOOD

When the Global Wellness Institute (GWI) first measured wellness tourism in 2013, it was defined as “travel associated with the pursuit of maintaining or enhancing one’s personal wellbeing”. One of the fastest-growing wellness economy sectors prior to 2020, it recovered soon after the pandemic and is projected to hit $1.4 trillion in 2027. Of this, Africa’s wellness tourism market is projected to grow to $114.24 billion by 2029. In South Africa, the Western Cape is the front runner, with 45.2 percent of its visitors seeking wellness activities.

Wellness tourists are not just spa-goers and yogis. The category actually encompasses a much wider audience and a diverse offering of activities, from healthy eating, cultural experiences, fitness and adventure to encounters with nature – anything that impacts your wellbeing in a positive way.

MINDFUL THAI RETREATS

Kamalya is a captivating retreat on the southern coastline of Koh Samui, with a simple philosophy to support holistic healing that “true healing comes from acceptance, not resistance”. Guests can either shape their own experience, letting intuition lead their search for internal harmony, or opt for tailored programmes under the guidance of complementary health practitioners such as naturopaths, fitness trainers, life coaches, and massage therapists, among others. kamalaya.co

RAKxa, a renowned integrative wellness destination in Bangkok, refers to its experiences as a “map to wholeness”. It uses integrative diagnostics and solutions to craft personalised healing journeys, taking into account everything from sleep, weight, and digestion to body, mind, emotions, and energy levels. A treatment plan is then crafted based on the four key pillars of therapy, nutrition, rest, and lifestyle. Therapies include longevity medicine, physical and sports therapy, Ayurveda, traditional Chinese and Thai medicine, energy medicine and hydrotherapy. It certainly helps that the villas are located on a pristine lake, so you also get the full Thai holiday feeling. rakxawellness.com

Body, mind, and energy levels are treated at

TOP & ABOVE LEFT: Warrior 1 and the Leela steam room at Kamalaya LEFT:

RAKxa

WELLNESS IN THE WINELANDS

Santé Wellness Retreat & Spa in Paarl’s winelands offers a variety of touchpoints that speak to the wellness traveller through various ‘high-tech and high touch’ approaches. The Health Optimizing Clinic uses technology to map an overall picture of the client’s health, identify any challenges and stimulate the body’s self-regulating mechanisms to optimise health. The Bio Energy Centre uses electromagnetic waveforms to trigger healing. There are also wellness programmes on offer (including fitness, weight management, emotional balance, and detox), as well as day spa and retreat facilities. santeretreat.co.za

FIVE-STAR MEDICAL TOURISM

Medical tourism is different to wellness tourism in that it refers specifically to travelling internationally to receive (usually cheaper, more accessible) medical care. Vivari Aesthetics in Featherbrooke, Johannesburg, successfully merges the two.

Countries such as Canada, Singapore, India, and Thailand rank highly as global hubs for medical tourism, and South Africa – renowned for its modern medical facilities, technologies, and highly skilled professionals – leads the way on the African continent. “We attract patients not only from within our borders, but also from other African countries, most notably Ghana, Nigeria, Botswana and Angola,” says Dr Anushka Reddy, owner of Vivari Aesthetics. “Direct flights and the ease to arrange medical visas make it a convenient stop for medical tourists seeking advanced facilities and the presence of highly skilled doctors for cosmetic surgery.”

Vivari Aesthetics is the only cosmetic surgery clinic and hospital on the African continent accredited by the Department of Health that is on the same property as a five-star hotel. It offers cosmetic and weight-loss surgical procedures that can be safely performed in a single day by a dedicated team of plastic surgeons. Patients are then discharged into the aftercare facility at the luxurious Vivari Hotel and Spa by the Mantis Collection, under the watchful eye of a team that specialises in post-op care, including a patient coordinator and 24-hour nursing staff. There’s also a concierge to schedule appointments and make travel arrangements such as visa motivation, and hotel and transfer bookings. Guests also have access to spa and fitness facilities, hyperbaric oxygen treatment for faster recovery postop, nutritional guidance, mental health support, or assistance with lifestyle changes. vivariaesthetics.co.za ■

SAFARIS WITH SOUL

Last year, Singita introduced its Wholeness concept across all of its 15 lodges in Africa, an initiative that aims to encourage a holistic approach to wellbeing. “Singita’s Wholeness journey is about grounding guests in their preferred level of mental, emotional, and physical calm,” says Georgina Pennington, Singita Group Creative Direction Manager. Experiences include food journeys, which focus on nourishing the body, heart, and soul, relaxation experiences that draw on ancient traditions and culture, and restorative activities, such as a sunset cruise on the Malilangwe Dam in Zimbabwe.

Solo travel has emerged as a big trend in this space as travellers want to step away from their comfort zone and enjoy connections at their own pace. “We’re seeing an increased confidence in solo travellers; they simply want to slot into the rhythm of the experience on offer,” says Georgina – and safaris are a key attraction for this. singita.com

CLOCKWISE, FROM TOP LEFT:

Indoor heated pool at Santé Wellness; the foot scrub ritual at Singita uses sand from the river banks; outdoor yoga at Singita; patients at Vivari Aesthetics are discharged into aftercare at the five-star Vivari Hotel

The Queen ROW of

SAVILE

WE TALK TO STYLISH BRITISH DESIGNER DAISY KNATCHBULL, WHO MADE SARTORIAL HISTORY WHEN SHE OPENED THE FIRST WOMEN’S TAILORING SHOPFRONT ON SAVILE ROW IN 2019 COMPILED BY LEIGH HERRINGER

YOU CAUSED A STIR AS THE FIRST WOMAN TO WEAR A MORNING SUIT TO ROYAL ASCOT IN 2016, A DRESS CODE PREVIOUSLY RESERVED FOR MEN… At the time, I was working at Huntsman, one of Savile Row’s oldest bespoke tailors, and saw the imbalance between men and women’s tailoring. I wanted to challenge the antiquated view that suits are only for men, and The Deck really gives women the opportunity to be heard and understood in the world of tailoring.

THE DECK IS THE FIRST WOMEN’SONLY TAILORING HOUSE TO HAVE A SHOPFRONT ON SAVILE ROW… It’s a real honour to be on Savile Row amongst the greatest names in British tailoring and craftsmanship. I’m on a mission to give successful, stylish women an alternative to fast fashion and to let them experience the very best craftmanship, quality, and fit.

WHO ARE YOUR STYLE ICONS? I admire many women throughout the ages, all of whom I think are so effortlessly chic; Marlene Dietrich, Lauren Hutton, Katharine Hepburn, Bianca Jagger in her wedding suit, and Julia Roberts in an Armani suit at the Oscars.

THOUGHTS ON FASHION TODAY? I love that the fashion industry is taking big steps to becoming more sustainable, and that there’s a more conscious consumer who’s drawn towards things that are timeless, long-lasting, and versatile. Suits are no longer a fad or a trend; they’re an essential wardrobe staple for women.

YOUR MOST TREASURED WARDROBE ITEM? A chic dressing-gown coat from my grandmother – it’s cream with beautiful hand-embroidered butterflies and birds on it. It reminds me of the De Gournay wallpaper we have in our store.

TELL US ABOUT THE KNATCHBULL READYTO-WEAR COLLECTION. It was born out of existing clients asking where to get the perfect pieces to wear with their suits. We’d been sending our clients elsewhere but realised that we could create these pieces ourselves. The collection includes wardrobe classics such as blazers, wideleg or high-waisted cigarette pants, shirts and blouses, and trench coats.

ON SUSTAINABILITY AND CRAFTSMANSHIP… Sustainability is extremely important to me. The Deck was recently awarded B-Corp certification, and is the first made-tomeasure tailoring house in the UK to achieve this – something I am immensely proud of. Craftsmanship is fundamental to The Deck. We work with highly skilled artisans and our garments pass through several pairs of highly skilled hands.

YOUR FAVOURITE PLACE TO SHOP?

I love browsing through vintage shops like Rellik in Notting Hill, and I often raid my grandmother’s wardrobe.

YOUR SUMMER HOLIDAY PLANS… I have a few weddings this summer, so my holiday plans will mainly focus on those. I also hope to get away for a long weekend in Italy, and I love entertaining at home. It helps me unwind.

YOUR ESSENTIAL TRAVEL ITEMS?

I cannot travel without Sarah Chapman’s facial oil and Laneige’s lip mask.

YOUR FAVOURITE LONDON RESTAURANT? Ida Restaurant in Kensal Rise – the pasta is unbeatable.

ADVICE FOR BUYING A SUIT OR BLAZER? Invest in one that is timeless and can take you from day to night so you can dress it up or down – usually a plain navy is best. Good quality cloth that not only feels good, but endures daily life over the years, is also so important. thedecklondon.com