NOVEMBER 2019

UPSCALE â„¢

NOVEMBER 2019

P O RS C HE PANAME R A 10TH YE AR ANNIV E RSARY MODEL

MI C H A EL S Q U I R E SUPERSTAR ARCHIT E CT OF SQUIRE & PARTNE RS

ROYAL CHUNDU SHINING EVEN BRIGHTER

Experience The Difference www.upscalelivingmag.com

ARCHITECTURAL PLANNING J. Armando Leyva 253-653-6815

CONTENT FEATURES

architecture

12 Royal Chundu, Shining Even Brighter 52 Sag Harbor, The Hamptons

26 Michael Squire, Superstar Architect of Squire & Partners

AUTOMOTIVE

BEAUTY / TOILETRIES

14 Porsche Panamera 10th Year M Anniversary Model Toasts a Decade 18 Lexus LF-30 Debuts Electrified Concept

30 Noble Isle, Britain in a Bottle

JEWELRY

tech / gadgets 32 FrontRo, the New $9,000 Electrostatic Loudspeaker 33 Bang & Olufsen Besound 1 New York Edition

20 Beautiful Bonanza Jewelry TIMEPIECES

PROFILE

22 Luxury Watches for Women

34 Emily Williams, Interior Designer HOTELS 40 Escape to Blantyre 44 A Holiday Haven, Haven Riviera Cancun 65 One Vacay, Two Vibes - Circa 39 Hotel and The Palms Hotel & Spa

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CULINARY 48 Experience Sausalito’s The Inn Above Tide 50 The New Korean Cuisine is gaining international recognition SPIRITS 56 Bourbon, The Bucket List 64 Recipe - Cambridge Mess by Pinkster Gin TRAVEL 58 Luxury in Leavenworth, Washington’s Alpine Wine Region 67 Discover Toronto’s Luxurious Side GOLF 62 Wynn Golf Course, Las Vegas' New Main Event

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PUBLISHER | EDITOR-IN-CHIEF | FOUNDER ALINA LEYVA (CABRAL) PUBLISHER@UPSCALELIVINGMAG.COM | 786-760-9133 MOBILE WWW.UPSCALELIVINGMAG.COM

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ANTHONY LEYVA JACKIE DANA Michelle..Farina@upscalelivingmag.com Publisher@upscalelivingmag.com Partnership@upscalelivingmag.com

CONTRIBUTORS

Heléne Ramackers, Jarone Ashkenazi, Dellvin Roshon, Tim Cotroneo, Barbara Palumbo, Angela Sara West,Tracy Beard, Smitha Sadanandan, Jordan Fuller, Debbi K. Hickham, Rebecca Underwood, Alona Martinez, Adam Jacot De Boinod, Amy Bizzarri, Anthony DeMarco, Archana Pandey, Raj Gill, Adina Laura Achim, Niyoshi Shah, Christine Hinz, Christopher Kanal, Dalit Aulakh, David Danzig, Deve Sanford, Felicity Carter, Fran Miller, Gerard, Vallecello, Jake Bright, Jordan Fuller, Karen Berlinier, Kevin Pilley, Leslie Royal, Shaun Melady, Antasha J. Royal, Nicole Trilivas, Nikita Pawar, Pamela & Gary Baker, Priscilla Pilon, Rahim Kanani, Lara Candido Porter.

Copyright 2019 Upscale Living Magazine. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of Upscale Living Magazine and ADMS Publishing Group, LLC. Neither the publisher nor the advertisers will be held responsible for any errors found in the magazine. The publisher accept no liability for the accuracy of statements made by advertisers. Ads in this publication are not intended as an offer where prohibited by state laws. www.upscalelivingmag.com

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TRAVEL

The Revitalized

Royal Chundu Shining Even Brighter | BY HELÉNE RAMACKERS PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF ROYAL CHUNDU AND BY HELÉNE RAMACKERS

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TRAVEL

Being one of the first of many lodges I have had the privilege of visiting in Africa, I vowed to return one day. After reading about their refreshed look, I knew the time was perfect to visit the only Relais & Châteaux property in Zambia, the very sophisticated Royal Chundu, on this occasion with my daughter.

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e all know how a fresh coat of paint can liven up a room. Add new murals and the wow factor is wholly encapsulated by the artist’s creativity. When Royal Chundu owner, Tina Aponte decides to do something new or different, she does it with such panache that it makes a statement for many years to come.

Local Zambian artist, Mwamba Chikwemba is responsible for the eye-catching Walls of Art at Royal Chundu. She was commissioned by Tina to add original and colorful brush strokes to the lodge while given total freedom of imagination. What ensued is so striking that it’s almost impossible not to be drawn in by the mural in the dining area at River Lodge - the spirit of Royal Chundu, flowery, femme and fabulous, as well as the spectacular wall painting by the swimming pool, featuring the animals that inhabit Royal Chundu and its surrounds.

foot here, where my old memories will be shared, and new ones formed.

We are ushered through to the large deck that overlooks the Zambezi River while our luggage is placed in our room. After being offered a refresher towel, a cooling drink, and the splendid surprise of a heavenly neck and shoulder massage, we are shown to our accommodation for the next two nights where I had stayed before - Stilt number 4.

Tina is greatly supportive of home-grown talent and even more so in her employment ratio, which is 99% Zambian and an impressive 76% female, bringing to fore community upliftment, coupled with the nurturing aspect found in her two exquisite lodges that cherish the guest while caring for nature surrounding the lodges. The sense of belonging is so overwhelming when arriving at Royal Chundu’s lodges that you immediately feel like part of a big, extended family.

I endeavor to prepare my daughter for our imminent visit, regaling her with tales from my previous stay three years prior. When we step out of the air-conditioned Royal Chundu vehicle that collects us at the Zambian border with driver Fred delivering us safely at Royal Chundu River Lodge, I can immediately gauge her delight in setting

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TRAVEL

Lunch is served either on the outside deck or inside the restaurant with the stunning sunflower lady mural serving as a backdrop to a variety of delicious food, with the freshest ingredients sourced from within a four-kilometer radius of the lodge. Today’s menu includes baker’s basket, RC Chef ’s salad, river crayfish spaghetti, parmesan crumbed chicken breast and our choice of Zambian steak sandwich served with French fries. Dessert is caramelized banana or seasonal fruit.

A sunset cruise is always a great prospect as you never know what lies in store, whether it’s a new feathered creature along the way, spotting some impalas, baboons or waterbuck on the banks of Matetsi Game Reserve across the river, or simply the magnificence of the setting sun that paints a different picture each and every day. Time on the river will not be complete without all the trimmings that accompany such a wondrous occasion – a fully-stocked bar – you get to elect your drink preference before the cruise starts, ensuring you have exactly what you ask for as well as the scrumptious snacks prepared for your indulgence.

After a wonderful dinner, a great night’s sleep, followed by a hearty breakfast, we set off for our picnic lunch on the banks of the Zambezi.

Getting to the site where the picnic is takes some maneuvering, but the trained guides know exactly how to steer the inflatable canoes through the gentle rapids. This is expertly done by our guide for all activities, the knowledgeable Nyambe, dropping us off safely to enjoy the most delectable eats – a selection of pizzas, BBQ chicken, meat skewers, fish, salads, fruit and drinks. Should overindulgence make you sleepy, there are two hammocks to recline in. We opt to ‘walk it off’ by meandering at a pace set by us through the forest where the

2,400-year-old baobab tree is an obligatory stop (resting place) for a few happy snaps.

Back on terra firma, we spend the day at leisure in and around our luxurious accommodation, enjoying what the lodge has to offer. Our morning activity on Day 3 is a birding safari, and my daughter is thrilled to spot an African Fish Eagle, African Skimmers, Wire-tailed Swallows, African Darter, Spur-winged Goose, Black-winged Stilt, Crowned lapwing, African Jacana, Lesser Jacana, Cape turtle doves, Cattle Egrets, Great Egret, Goliath Heron, Squacco Heron, Green-backed Heron and Water Thickknee.

Today, we are moving to Royal Chundu Island Lodge, situated on Katombora Island, just upstream from Royal Chundu River Lodge. With only four villas, guests are assured of ultra-luxury, privacy and tranquility. Our bags are taken to Villa 2, overlooking a lovely stretch of the Zambezi. Sitting on our outside veranda, the unmistakable call of an African Fish Eagle cuts through the afternoon silence. You know you are in Africa when you hear that sound.

Royal Chundu Island Lodge is the perfect place to unwind while luxuriating in the lush environs that make up your villa. The extra-large bed is so enormous, my daughter sleeps diagonally across it without disturbing me. Every night after your sunset cruise, a bubble-bath awaits your return where you can soak the day away.

An exciting addition to the Royal Chundu experience is the Treehouse, with 42 wooden steps leading up to a platform overlooking an expanse of the Zambezi, perfectly positioned to watch the sun sink deep into the treetops every night. This is our ‘sunset cruise’, with the best view I have experienced in a long time.

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Enjoying our snacks and drinks while admiring the handiwork of constructing this little slice of paradise, which is also a sleepout, complete with a four-poster bed, mosquito netting, bucket shower, toilet and the softest bedding imaginable.

It would be remiss to visit Zambia and not see the mighty Victoria Falls. Even better from a vantage point up in the sky. You guessed it – a helicopter flight! At United Air Charter, they strive to make your jaw drop with their Flight of Angels over the Victoria Falls. My daughter and I couldn’t be more elated that we get to enjoy this once-in-lifetime experience together.

Following a safety briefing at the United Air Charter’s welcome lounge, Baobab Ridge, we depart with pilot Steph for our 15-minute flight over the Falls. Seated in the black EC120B Eurocopter, we witness the breathtaking majesty of ‘The Smoke that Thunders’ while flying above it and Steph explaining through our headsets what we are seeing.

What a magical way to see the Victoria Falls, ending our Zambian visit on a high note (pun intended).

We return to Royal Chundu Island Lodge for our last night before heading back to Cape Town. The warmth of the staff, the friendly smiles, the hospitality and the sincere kindness they portray makes it hard to leave. As Assistant General Manager, Hessah Silwebbe hugs us goodbye, he invites us back, because, “this is your home, you are welcome anytime”.

Our road transfer takes us back to Zimbabwe, where we are looking forward to sharing our remarkable impressions of Zambia with our family back home. Leaving from Victoria Falls International Airport, we know our jour-

TRAVEL

ney home will be a good one on the exceptional Airlink Embraer E-Jet. With friendly onboard service, a delicious meal and a drink to quench your thirst, Airlink makes getting to your destination smooth and hassle-free. Landing earlier than anticipated, we depart when all passengers are seated, arriving at Cape Town International Airport 30 minutes ahead of schedule, much to the joy of visitors wanting to explore the beautiful Mother City. *** Views expressed are the author’s own.

Thank you to Salwa Birtles for arranging our stay and to Tina Aponte for hosting us at Royal Chundu.

TRAVEL TIPS: Zambia is situated in a malaria area.

Consult your healthcare practitioner about prophylactics. Visitors require a VISA when entering Zimbabwe and Zambia. Credit card facilities are available at Royal Chundu.

AIRLINK – HOW TO GET THERE Airlink: Airlink is the largest Regional Feeder airline connecting the major cities of southern Africa with the smaller towns, cities and eco-leisure destinations.

Airlink is a privately owned airline with more than 25 years of customer-focused experience and a network of over 55 routes throughout the SADC region and St Helena Island.

Route Specific Information: Direct scheduled flights from Cape Town to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.

Connectivity: Through our alliance with SAA, travelers can connect conveniently, effortlessly and seamlessly, with SAA, their Partner airlines and other carriers throughout Southern Africa and the world.

Frequent Flyer Program: Airlink is a member of South African Airways Loyalty program -Voyager.

Discover more: www.flyairlink.com Book Direct: https://www.flyairlink. com/destinations/flights-to-victoria-falls

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AUTOMOBILE

Porsche Panamera 10th Year Anniversary Model Toasts A Decade | BY JARONE ASHKENAZI

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AUTOMOBILE

C

elebrating its 10-year anniversary of the four-door Porsche Panamera, Porsche introduces the 10 Year Edition. Following a decade of success with its four-door model – which has s combined the performance one would expect from a sports car with the luxury and versatility of a touring saloon – the new Panamera 10 Years Edition will feature design enhancements as well as an upgrade in equipment and areas of comfort and the chassis.

Additionally, per the companies release on October 2, 2019, “With the standard adaptive three-chamber air suspension including Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) and Power Steering Plus, the Panamera10 models are also ideally equipped for outstanding driving dynamics. The hybrid models of the Panamera 10 Years Edition come with an on-board charger with a charging capacity of 7.2 kW instead of the otherwise standard 3.6 kW.”

On its exterior, one of its most notable design differences include the new 21-inch Panamera sport design wheels in satin-gloss white gold metallic. Paired with the “Panamera10” logo on the front doors, also in White Gold Metallic, the special-edition models truly stand out. The distinctive Panamera10 anniversary logo is also featured on the front passenger trim panel and on the door entry guards. Designed in black partial leather with decorative white gold stitching, drivers enter into a high-quality environment for their drive.

Panamera 10 will go on sale next year for Panamera (starting at $104,650), the all-wheel drive Panamera 4 (starting at $108,850), and Panamera E-Hybrid models (starting at $118,250). 

Along with these striking aesthetic features, many additional extras are included as standard from a host of additional comfort and safety features.

- LED matrix headlights including PDLS Plus - Lane Change Assist and Lane Keeping Assist with traffic sign recognition and Park Assist - Panoramic roof system - Privacy glass - Heated 14-way comfort seats with Porsche crest on the head restraints - Digital radio and BOSE® Surround Sound system.

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AUTOMOBILE

Lexus LF-30 Debuts Electrified Concept | BY JARONE ASHKENAZI

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This year, Lexus - Japan’s largest-selling make of premium cars - automaker revealed the Lexus LF-30 Electrified Concept to much aplomb. Embodying the vision of Lexus drive for the future of automation and electrification in cars, the LF-30’s exterior foreshadows the Lexus Electrified vehicles towards 2030, an upcoming generation of electrified vehicles.

S

ince the launch of the RX 400h in 2005, Lexus has become renowned for its electrification technologies such as the twostage reduction gear and the multi-stage hybrid system. This next step of Lexus Electrified further bolsters Lexus’ vision and presents a leap in performance, handling, control and ultimately driver enjoyment.

AUTOMOBILE

Its futuristic form and autonomous driving along with other new technologies – Advanced Posture Control technology, steer-by-wire system, drone-support vehicle technologies and more – manifests Lexus’s view of the future of driving. The LF-30 autonomous driving concept of ‘Lexus Teammate’ supports driving functions in the form of a Chauffeur mode and a Guardian mode and offers a self-parking function and a front-door pickup function.

The BEV (battery electric vehicle) features a hoodless shape with Lexus’ signature ‘spindle’ form with window glass stretching from front to rear.

Along with wing-shaped headlights and “elegantly flowing front which transitions into a linear and sharp rear”, this concept car truly is a futuristic masterpiece on wheels.

The newly designed cockpit, which is based on the new Lexus concept of “Tazuna”, creates a space from the steering controller-mounted switches, head-up display, navigation, audio system, and driving-mode selection without having to shift one’s vision or operate manual switches. Featuring next-generation interfaces using gesture control, augmented reality and enhanced presentation, the interior provides both comfort and

convenience for the driver – who’s layout mirrors that of a first-class seat on an airliner – and passengers. Passengers also enjoy similar comfort as their seats use artificial muscle technology to mold to their occupants and take advantage of multiple modes (reclining, relaxation, and alert functions) to enhance the experience. The Mark Levinson® audio system paired with the voice control and a gesture-controlled “SkyGate” display window – which also uses augmented reality to display everything from favorite videos, navigation to a realistic star-filled sky – add to the innovative interior.

The striking concept car presents a combined 536 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, enabling the concept car to run 62 mph in 3.8 seconds and tops out at 124 mph. With four electric motors, the car which is envisioned for release in 2030 will be able to cover 311 between charges and can be charged at 150 kW.

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JEWELRY

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JEWELRY

Beautiful Bonanza Jewelry | By Felicity Carter

B

old and beautiful (just like the woman than they design for) meet the new jewelry brand, Bonanza Paris.

Designed by friends Justine and Chloé, they started their stylish firm in 2018 and have gone from strength to strength in only one year. The collection as you would expect is tres chic as it merges gorgeous, classic pearls with gold, of course, a pairing that you cannot beat! Both elegant and alluring, there is a massive appeal with their head-turning pieces.

You’ll find the brand all of France in the leading boutiques if you happening to be vacationing there, or conveniently you can buy online via their website. We talk to the ladies to find out more about their passion for jewelry.

WHAT IS IT ABOUT JEWELRY THAT YOU LOVE SO MUCH? The ostentatious of the jewels that we find in the jewelry boxes of our grandmothers. We have a weakness for vintage textured jewelry, gold and with precious stones that we can find in Paris flea markets.

WHAT INFLUENCES YOUR JEWELRY DESIGNS? We want to emphasize the body and sublimate the skin, we are fans of vintage and looking to the future, Bonanza is part of the present, honoring the past, shaping our idea of modernity.

The style of past eras, from the ‘60s to the ‘90s is our source of inspiration for the development of our collections, it is in the jewelry boxes of our mothers and grandmothers that we find valuable treasures.

It is also important for us that each collection is approached on a theme that is dear to us - the nature and especially the spirit and warmth of the South, the commitment of women to the feminist cause; we want to tell a story through every collection, every jewel has a meaning. Our jewels are therefore the direct transcription of our inspirations and our commitments. They are rather massive because “a jewel is there to be seen and not to be hidden”.

ic-sounding English term reveals our philosophy, based on the will to dare, to approach life as a chance to be seized. We are bold and eager to instil an extravagant and liberated mindset in our way of creating and undertaking. So first of all, the story of a duo of women who makes every effort to succeed respecting our values and desires. We like to highlight the duets whether in the declination of our materials on each jewel or in the choice of our muses. Bonanza Paris is a massive, creative and quality jewelry for women who are not afraid to be seen.

WHAT ARE THE NEXT STEPS FOR THE BRAND? Bonanza Paris was created only a year ago but we already have many beautiful projects in sight. One of our dreams is to have our own boutique atelier in Paris so that we can share our passion and desires with our customers, we attach great importance to the relationship we create with each person who is close to or by far from our history with Bonanza.

Also, we would like to expand our market abroad especially in America, England, and Germany. We also have the idea to expand our range by offering accessories, it would allow us to focus on other types of materials which is an interesting challenge for us. In the meantime, we have a cool project in collaboration with a clothing brand that will be launched at the end of 2019.

YOU HAVE JUST LAUNCHED YOUR NEW COLLECTION, DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE PIECE FROM THE LINE? Our favorite piece from the ‘Bord de Mer’ collection is the Cala necklace which matches perfectly with a dress, a shirt or even a swimsuit.

It is a massive piece - just as we like them. You don’t go unnoticed with this necklace around the neck.

WHERE CAN WE PURCHASE THE COLLECTION? For now, you can find our brand in stores all over France and on our website www.bonanzaparis.com. The US market is our next step!

WHAT ARE THE CORE VALUES OF YOUR BUSINESS? While Bonanza can be translated as “a boon” in French, this Hispan21 | UPSCALE LIVING MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2019

TIMEPIECES

Luxury Watches

For Women | BY Niyoshi Shah

So much more than just a way to tell time, a woman’s watch exemplifies her style statement, personality and pedigree almost like a piece of jewellery. While it must be functional and durable, it must also have a certain je ne sais quoi. Featuring outstanding quality, craftsmanship and design, we give you a round-up of some of the top timepieces available that are worth the investment:.

FENDI RUN AWAY STEINLESS STEEL & DIAMOND LEATHER-STRAP WATCH A classic statement making timepiece, the Fendi Run Away collection has created a niche for itself in the luxury gamut. With a bright red leather strap, the stainless steel, precious diamond and rose Gold PVD, the brown calfskin leather seamlessly complements the Silver-White Opalin dial. And, if the pop of color isn’t enough, the watch has the Fendi logo on the face and is dripping in diamonds, with .48 total carat weight.

HIPOSSESSION 34MM ROSE GOLD ALLIGATOR AND DIAMOND PIAGET WATCH

DAN VINCI AUTOMATIC IWC SHAFFHAUSEN WATCH An ode to the quintessential 1980s style, the round case with its striking lugs has re-established itself as the feature that sets the Da Vinci models apart from other IWC watch families. The stellar model boasts of an articulated strap horn to ensure that the watch fits perfectly on the wrist, while the minimalist dial with its large Arabic numerals and elegant lancet-shaped hand is classically simple.

The watch is water-resistant to 3 bar and powered by the tried and tested 35111 calibre. The blue seconds hand provides a colourful contrast on the dial.

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A stainless steel dial has never looked as elegant as in the unparalleled Possession Collection.

Piaget has blurred the lines between timepieces and jewelry for over half a century – each of its watches is as beautiful in its haute horlogerie as it is to wear. Crafted at the Swiss atelier, this ‹Possession› watch has a minimal silvered dial that›s framed with 18-karat rose gold and 1.55-carats of shimmering diamonds around its case and indexes. The selfinterchangeable alligator straps come in black and lapis-blue.

JAEGER-LECOULTRE REVERSO ONE MEDIUM 20MM STAINLESS STEEL, DIAMOND AND ALLIGATOR WATCH A delicate silhouette from the time-honoured Reverso collection, the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso One is designed to flatter the female wrist; its slimline design and blue dauphine hands are distinctive features that take their inspiration from the first 1930s Reverso ladies’ model, while up to 0.29 carat of sparkling white diamonds give this watch a jewellery-like feel.

TIMEPIECES

VAN CLEEF & ARPELS CHARMS WATCH The Charms timepiece collection pays homage to Van Cleef & Arpels’ iconic Alhambra jewelry collection. Introduced in 1968, the Maison’s signature good-luck motif - one of the maison’s most beloved creations - is a symbol of class and pedigree. Its round silhouette is adorned with a lucky charm that rotates to accompany the movements of the wrist.

In different shades of gold, the collection reflects the Maison’s jewelry expertise.

CHOPARD HAPPY DIAMONDS 32MM WATCH Since 1976, Chopard has established a strong recognition and identity by revolutionising the watch industry with the Happy Diamonds line. For the first time, moving diamonds could be appreciated between two crystal sapphire glasses on the face of the watch. The timepieces are a stylish interpretation of Chopard’s signature moving diamonds in all their delicacy and effervescence. This 32 mm quartz watch is a masterpiece in aesthetic appeal. A single diamond rests delicately at the top and bottom of the 18-carat rose gold case, making the transition from case to richly colored burgundy strap into a statement of exquisitely simple, enduring style. The dial, with its leaf-shaped hands, is a perfect mother-of-pearl guilloché sphere and fills the center of the smaller of two concentric, diamond-set circles. Precious materials and feminine grace and charm come together in another example of iconic jewelry expertise by the brand.

BAUME & MERCIER PETITE PROMESSE 10288 DIAMOND, STAINLESS STEEL & WRAPAROUND LEATHER STRAP WATCH This ellipse 22 mm leather diamond watch is wonderfully suited for the woman who balances a playful spirit with an enduring ambition. It comes with a bold wrap-around blue leather strap made from fine calfskin and a polished bezel set with precious diamonds.

The mother-of-pearl dial offers this timepiece an enchanting allure. It is set with two diamond indices at 6 and 12 o’clock. The Petite Promesse watch features a Swiss-made quartz movement.

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YOUR PORTAL TO THE WORLD OF LUXURY w w w. u p s c a l e l i v i n g m a g . c o m

786.760.9133

ARCHITECT Vida Hotel and Apartments

Michael Squire

Superstar Architect of Squire & Partners | BY RAJ GILL photos courtesy of Squire & Partners

Michael Squire, architect and founder of Squire & Partners sat down with Upscale Living Magazine to discuss some of his current project. Here is what he had to say.

How did your journey as an architect begin?

My father was an architect, and in my family we talked architecture from when I was very young. It was always my ambition to be an architect, and it has not let me down.

What / who do you draw your inspiration from?

The tree symbol explains the way we think about architecture at Squire and Partners, and it expresses the importance we set upon designing buildings that are rooted in the history and culture of their location. We do not turn the tree upside down and replicate the past, but we do believe that anything we design should have a fundamental connection to its place. In the case of Clarges Mayfair,

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the scale, proportion and materials of the building are all drawn from the context. The windows have a classical verticality, and the columns are clad in Portland stone, which is the traditional London material for important buildings. The balustrade details have a pattern which is drawn from the bark of the London plane trees which line the north of Green Park on the opposite side of Piccadilly. The column bases are fluted, making a reference to many of the fluted columns to

ARCHITECT

Top/Bottom Vida Hotel and Apartments current project

be found in Regent Street and Piccadilly.

The bronze window frames are typical of many of the buildings in Mayfair. For all these reasons, Clarges has its roots in Central London neoclassical architecture, but its detailing is clearly crisp and contemporary.

What are / have been your biggest challenges in your creative process?

We decided to construct Clarges Mayfair from prefabricated materials manufactured off-site, but the design was inspired by buildings constructed in traditional hand-set stone. Prefabricated materials need significant movement joints at their interfaces. The challenge of the project was to create a prefabricated building that had all the characteristics and qualities of hand-set stone.

What inspires you to work on a specific project?

The project location, its profile, its quality and its end-user are all sources of inspiration in undertaking any particular project.

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ARCHITECT

What does your work process involve?

All our buildings are initially conceived with hand sketches explaining the design concept and the proposed proportions, scale, materials and details. These hand drawings are then reproduced as CAD drawings and computer generated images. Once the concept has been agreed and approved, we proceed into the process of construction, specification and detailing. During the course of the evolution, we communicate our ideas to the public, we negotiate detailed planning applications and building regulations approvals, and we direct and supervise the construction on site.

Important lessons along the way?

Try to absolutely understand and agree the design concept before moving into the delivery of detailed drawings.

The favorite part of your job?

Receiving a new commission, visiting and exploring the site, and producing the initial sketch ideas for the development.

What do you think sets your designs apart?

The answer to this question is contained in the answer to question two.

What is the best thing about being an architect?

The best thing about being an architect is that I absolutely love my job and, despite being well past the age at which many people retire, I still enjoy every minute of it.

What has been your favorite building to design? I know, it’s like asking who is your favorite child, but there must be a special one?

This changes all the time, but although it is a long time ago I still have a very strong feeling for Vogans Mill on St Saviors Dock.

Describe your designs in three words.

Connected, crisp and calm.

If you hadn’t become an architect, what would you have become?

I have no alternative.

Current Project. Top: Albany Marina, Bahamas. Bottom Photo: Landmark Pinnacle

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What exciting projects are in the pipeline for the rest of 2019 and 2020?

Most of them are confidential and the subject of overbearing non-disclosure agreements, but we do have special commissions for a new hotel close to Charing Cross station, breathing life and restoration into Space House, which is a Seifert building on Kingsway, and a small co-working office which we are building for ourselves in Brixton adjacent to our offices.

TOILETRIES

Noble Isle

Britain in a Bottle | By Kevin Pilley

The toiletries and home fragrance industries are tough businesses. You need to have a thick skin if you going to make it in shower gels and hand lotions and persuade people to have their bodies and homes smell of whiskey and water and Yorkshire rhubarb.

“The main challenge and obstacle was fierce competition in a market full of lovely brands.

However, if you have a strong identity, unique USPs and stay true to them, you’ll find your core customer.

“You need to be resilient. It’s normal to experience a lot of knockbacks during the first few years while you make your brand present in the market place. I one hundred percent believed in Noble Isle.”

Originally from Bangor in Northern Ireland, Katy Simpson is the founder and director of the luxury unisex luxury bathing, body care, and home fragrance company, “Noble Isle”.

She puts its success down to a royal wedding.

“2011 was the year of William and Kate’s wedding. I was just starting the brand design work and research for a unique selling point. I felt so proud to be part of this country. My sister,

Claire, who worked as a marketing director for a US Silicon Valley company, came up with the name during a Chinese meal in Beaconsfield.

“Noble Isle was the term used by kings and queens in the fifteenth century for Great Britain.”

Simpson, 46, whose father from Co Tyrone was Vice-President of Sales & Marketing for Unisys Computers, lived in Wellington, New Zealand for three years, attending Queen Margaret’s School. She went to the American College of London and studied Fashion Buying and Marketing for four years, before working in the buying offices of several high street and designer houses in the UK. “From garments, I moved to accessories, shoes, bags and leather gifts, and soon found myself working with jewelry, fragrance sets and bath, and body products. I really enjoyed the product type and discovered I had a hidden passion for fragrance. I also love taking an idea and developing it into something physical.

“In 2001, I left fashion and moved to Bath & Body and Beauty within a well-known British cosmetics house where I was Head of Product

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Development for eight years. Then I was asked to start a business by one of my colleagues who worked in supply and production. We joined up with two others who come from very different skill-based backgrounds – Research & Development and Finance. I was the New Product Development bod.”

It was a team effort and the four areas proved critical to building a new brand. “Having launched a Croatian spa brand which sourced ingredients from local areas within Croatia, it seemed like a great idea to do the same in the U.K. “I wanted to create a truly British brand, not only making all its products within the British Isles but taking it a step further and sourcing all our ingredients from around the UK.” “As a kid, I used to love wrapping up presents, sourcing interesting papers and dressing them up with ribbons and bows. I worked with a friend and artist from Cornwall to forge the design and then roll it out to the packaging of Britain in a Bottle.”

Katy took over sole ownership of “Noble Isle” in 2015. Every product comes from local

TOILETRIES producers. Every fragrance is unique with different ingredients and sits within a fragrance category. “We promote farmers, charities, conservationists – people doing exceptional things in our country. Like Suffolk’s Lakenham Woodland walk planting project. We get our natural willow bark and water lily extracts from there.”

Believing sustainable and ethical sourcing will continue to challenge beauty brands to develop a greener ethos, the proud-to-be-vegan “Noble Isle” brand has recently partnered with Gwen Powell’s “Clean Conscience” charity.

Says Simpson who worked for Occo, Molton Brown and Miller Harris: “ The issue of single-use plastic is a significant one for the hospitality industry. We re-purpose. Liquid contents are turned into CareKits and sent to women’s shelters and refugee camps.

“Organic collaboration is absolutely key. The most important factor when making our products is that we use British extracts from local celebrated producers from around the country - barley from the Balvenie distillery, Dufftown, red, yellow and white beetroot from the Bell Inn, Skenfrith, Monmouthshire, elderflower and gooseberry from the Lost Gardens of Heligan, Cornwall, sea oak and samphire from West Cork’s Roaringwater Bay mussel farm, heather honey from Perthshire and rhubarb from Yorkshire!

Yorkshire Rhubarb grower, Janet Oldroyd – a sixth-generation rhubarb farmer.

Hotels like the Savoy and Claridge’s inspired “Tea Rose”. There was something so glamorous and elegant about these grand hotels and their stylish interior decoration that made you want to stay forever. I met Rosebie, from The Real Flower Company land she invited me to her farm in Hampshire. Seeing first-hand in Hampshire all those roses and listening to her explain all the subtleties of hue and scent, I knew that her company was the perfect partner.

“Combining two opposite but complementary main notes the fragrance is a fine balance of fresh rose petals, jasmine and green leaves which is pure and delicate. These are then grounded, turned earthy, due to the black tea and sage scents, making a tea rose complex and sophisticated.

It’s pure Britain!”

For some, making smells is a lucrative vocation. “Noble Isle” plans to launch its first perfume in 2012.

“We are rooted in and inspired by our land, culture, and history. We are a small, niche discovery brand found in exceptional places. We want to try and stay small and exclusive. And fragrantly patriotic!”

“In 2011 Noble Isle was the first beauty brand to come up with a rhubarb fragrance. It’s very British and a little eccentric. What I love about it is that it stays true to the essence of natural, just-picked, rhubarb – fresh and bittersweet. We then combined the fragrance with a fresh extract from Yorkshire rhubarb grower, Janet Oldroyd – a sixth-generation rhubarb farmer. We are a British company using British ingredients to make wholly and quintessentially British products.”

As well as using grapes from her brother Charles’s wine estate in Barham, Kent to celebrate English grapes with hand lotions and washes, “Noble Isle” uses Yellow Huffcap perry apples from Day’s Cottage, members of the Gloucestershire Orchard Trust, an organization dedicated to the conservation and celebration of the area’s traditional cultivars.

“Legend has it that a perry pear tree can only flourish within sight of May Hill. I love some of the names of old British apples -Merrylegs, Mumblehead, Lumberskull, Golden Balls and Early Treacle.”

Found in London’s “The Ritz”, “Dorchester” and “Brown’s Hotels, “Noble Isle” is a preferred partner of “Small Luxury Hotels of the World”.

They are sold by Harrods, Fortnum & Mason and Liberty London. The products are very popular in Germany and doing well in the US. They have built a strong presence in Scandinavia and Hong Kong. Its largest market in Taiwan. “ I visit all my producers, find out more about them and then brief my fragrance house. I send my “nose” (fragrance creator) a brief, including evocative imagery of the raw ingredient and landscapes. Like an artist using oil and canvas, a master nose, paint you a picture with aromas. To evoke a place.

“The strangest idea I’ve ever had for a scent was for whiskey. Now it’s a cult product.”

In 2011, “Noble Isle” was the first beauty brand to use a rhubarb fragrance in 2011. My fragrance house felt it was very British and a little eccentric. It stayed true to the essence of natural, just-picked rhubarb – fresh and bittersweet. We then combined it with a fresh extract from 31 | UPSCALE LIVING MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2019

TECH / GADGETS

FrontRo

New $9,000 Electrostatic Loudspeaker | BY JARONE ASHKENAZI

F

rontRo is the new $9,000 electrostatic loudspeaker from UK based brand Mellow Acoustics Providing a powerful sound almost unmatched in the Hi Fi world, Tim Mellow and his company, Mellow Acoustics, present The Mellow Acoustics FrontRo speakers. A combination of high-quality materials in sound engineering, acoustics and design, FrontRo is new high-end electrostatic loudspeaker that is creating shockwaves in the audio industry.

After five years of development paying meticulous detail to design and audio quality, FrontRo has position itself has possibly the world’s most luxurious electrostatic audio units. From locally sourced materials such as oak veneered wood which create the modern design, the speak-

ers come across as simple and stylish with its pyramid shaped bottom and circular top; grill cloths are available in gunmetal, navy or burgundy and the premium version allows buyers to match to the color of the veneer wood.

The new disruptive product has earned high acclaim by many experts from the audio industry due to its unmatched sound quality in the Hi-Fi world. Its hybrid electrostatic design consists of a 12-inch electrostatic unit capable of handling mid-range and treble frequencies (600 Hz to 20 kHz), while the 5.25” dynamic woofer can handle bass down to the lowest note on a double bass or bass guitar (40 Hz) while the The passive loudspeaker can be paired with whatever amplifier and partnering equipment

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(i.e. any streaming device or turntable) and features a special screen underneath the cloth of the electrostatic unit that protects from dust and moisture, ensuring long term reliability.

Read more about FrontRo’s compact electrostatic loudspeaker here. 

TECH / GADGETS

Bang & Olufsen

Beosound 1 New York Edition | BY JARONE ASHKENAZI

Inspired by the New York City Skyline, the new limited-edition speaker from Bang & Olufsen is meant to represent the “dynamic fusion of precision craftsmanship and minimalist design, capturing the ascendant energy of New York City.” Beosound 1 New York Edition from luxury electronics company Bang & Olufsen combines minimalist design with the brand’s renowned precision craftsmanship.

P

aying tribute to the bustling and loud metropolis of the Big Apple, the wireless speaker is designed for 360-degree sound experiences. Crafted with special aluminum-gradient finish to resemble the metallic nature of

New York City’s skyscrapers, the tower-like shaped speaker creates a space-age aesthetic.

Through its patent-pending process of the piano black-to-natural aluminum gradient finish, Bang & Olufsen shows off its unrivaled design capabilities in the audio space. Due to this labor-intensive process which sees the aluminum get milled, polished, anodized and then mechanically processed, only 1,200 pieces of the Beosound 1 New York Edition were made.

Along with Bang & Olufsen’s surface specialists taking fine care of this speaker, its features are just as impressive.

Sound: patent-pending Acoustic Lens Technology creates a spherical sound which fills every corner with rich sounds.

Portability: The portable speaker has a built-in battery with a single charge delivering up to 12 hours of wireless playtime.

Voice Control: With the Google Assistant built-in, simply say “Hey Google” and select from a playlist, news, weather and more.

Operation: Beosound 1 is able to connect to all wireless technologies as well as connecting to Bang & Olufsen’s multi-room speakers.

Bang & Olufsen Beosound 1 New York Edition is currently available for $2,000 USD at Bang & Olufsen stores and online. A docking station that allows the speaker to be moved around more easily is also available for $175 USD.

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PROFILE

Shayne Brady and Emily Williams, Interior Designers and Founders of BradyWilliams Studio

Emily Williams Interior Designer | BY RAJ GILL photos courtesy of BradyWilliams Studio

Upscale Living Magazine had an exclusive with one of the Founders of BradyWilliams, an interior design company offering exquisite timeless design for both Commercial and Residential Clients. Emily Williams, one of the founders, sat with us and talked about her life and her career.

Tell us a bit about yourself?

I am a Surrey born; London based interior designer. My business partner Shayne and I set up Brady Williams 6 years ago after working together with designer hotels many years before.

study was often quite polarised, so I ended up studying design only after I majored in French and Business. My mother is Swedish and comes from a large family of creatives, so this had a big impact when I was growing up and formed my love of interiors from an early age.

Did you have an influence in your youth that shaped your career path?

I grew up with a creative mother and an academic father. It meant that my choice of

What are/have been the biggest challenges in your career?

Since running our own business, Shayne and I have learned that you must hire the best peo-

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PROFILE

Hempel Gardens Penthouse Apartment Hyde Park, London

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PROFILE

Private Residence, Regent’s Park

ple, without a good team, there is no structure and we cannot see the big picture. Quite appropriately the other lesson is that we must delegate and learn to let go. This is something designers struggle with, but we have learnt it benefits the project (and the sanity of the team) in the end.

Important lessons learned along the way?

Never trust a price too low or a lead time too short - we have worked with many suppliers

over the years who have promised the earth to win the job and ended up being completely unreliable and costing more in the end! We now only work with our trusted partners who deliver quality on time.

The favorite part of your job?

The Concept and installation! I love pulling all the initial ideas together at the concept to form a complete vision and I love the pace and unveiling of the final installation. It’s like

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the moment you discover you’re pregnant and the moment you hold your new baby. The bit in between is a lot of hard work and dedication but well worth it!

What is the best thing about being at the helm of an interior design company?

We love the creative freedom and building the business. It’s dynamic and exciting and no day is the same.

PROFILE

Three Bedroom Lateral Apartment, Mayfair

And the worst?

You never turn off - whether it’s on holiday or waking up in the middle of the night, our clients and the business are always on our mind.

Is your home/are your homes as stunning as those of your clients? I’m thinking of the old proverb of the shoemaker’s children that have no shoes …. hopefully, that’s not the case with your abode(s).

Well, I’d like to think that one day our home will be but currently, it needs a lot of work! We’ve focused on a few rooms so we can ‘live’ with it until the refurbishment starts but I am far less decisive with my own house.

What are your favorite rooms in your own home(s) and why?

I love the master bedroom as it is a double aspect and even though we’re in London, all you see is the tops of trees.

What key pieces in your home can you not live without?

Personal possessions make a home so photos, art, and books but I also have some key pieces of furniture that I really cherish. A mixture of inherited Swedish antiques and mid-century finds.

Talk to us through a timeless interior design style.

The timeless design will respect the architectural bones of the property. I think adding eclectic

pieces to a period space doesn’t date as opposed to being on ‘trend’. Layering texture with neutral tones will also always look elegant.

How important is it to accessorize?

I love accessorizing but don’t think it should be overdone. Sometimes less is more but certainly, a few key pieces add dynamism to a room.

Is there a right and wrong when it comes to decorating? Please explain.

I don’t think so. It is all very subjective and for every rule, there is probably a beautiful example of where it is broken. I would say always be conscious of scale and if working with color, don’t match too much as it will just feel like a bad show home.

How does one keep things modern/timeless without having to break the bank?

Invest in one or two good things and the rest will pull together.

Do you believe in repurposing dated pieces or should one just shop for new ones?

I think it is good to re-purpose and it shows character. That said, tastes change and as you move around certain things will suit different properties. If you have the chance to store some cherished favorites, I think it is well worth it.

Yes, sometimes we have had to decline because the budget or timeline doesn’t seem realistic and we have learned the hard way, that you are always on the back foot in these instances. Also, we’ve had a couple of instances where the client has shown a design style direction that isn’t our style.

You travel for business and hopefully pleasure too. Which have been your favorite places to travel to that have left a lasting impression?

I have recently got back from Morocco which blew me away. The craftsmanship and detailing of their buildings are stunning and a complete feast for the eyes! I cannot wait to return.

What do you do for fun?

I have two young girls and a large family, so family time is key. We like to make the most of London but also love escaping to the Alps or the countryside.

Any exciting plans on the horizon?

We have lots on both the residential and hospitality front. We are currently working on some beautiful London family homes and pieds-a-terre and some exciting restaurants which will open next year.

Have there been projects that you have declined? If yes, why?

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HOTEL

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HOTEL

Escape to

Blantyre | By TRACY BEARD

Blantyre lies on 110 acres in Lenox, Massachusetts, the Berkshires, an area recognized for grand estates, outdoor activities, stunning fall foliage, renowned art institutions and an incredible culinary scene. This prestigious summer playground is a legendary destination and one to add to your vacation list.

Thick trees and foliage parallel the smooth-paved drive leading to the grand house and estate. As my friend, Gina, drove us toward Blantyre, I envisioned being transported back to a time when well-manicured horses pulled magnificent carriages along this same path. I could imagine men dressed in dark tuxedo jackets with matching vests and bow ties exiting the buggies. They would remove their top hats and extend a hand toward the carriage door. Ladies adorned in full-length decorative dresses would use one gloved hand to hold down their wide-brimmed hats tilted slightly to one side and then reach out with the other to accept assistance from their escort. The couples would make their way toward the door and enter the festive parties held at the opulent estate.

THE HISTORY Robert Paterson learned about the Lenox estate that in 1900 comprised of a modest house, outbuildings, the carriage house stables and a potting shed. He and his wife Marie Louise purchased the property along with additional lands to increase the estate to 230 acres. They promptly tore down the house and began construction on a new summer residence, one befitting the area in 1901. Mr. Paterson worked with architect Robert Henderson Robertson to design the castle-like Elizabethan manor complete with towers, turrets and gargoyles.

The family took up residence in 1902 and named the estate Blantyre.

English-style furniture filled the main house. The Patersons lived at the estate in the summer and fall and hosted lavish dinner dances and grand garden parties. Their lifestyle continued for many years until Robert Paterson passed away in 1917. Soon the house became too much for Marie. She attempted to sell their home for one million dollars but only received an offer of $250,000, which she promptly rejected.

Sadly, the economy continued to decline. After several more 41 | UPSCALE LIVING MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2019

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years Marie could no longer afford or take care of the enormous property. She was forced to settle for an offer of $25,000 in the 1930s.

The estate was passed from owner to owner over the next 60 years, but in 1980 it was given new life when Jack and Jane Fitzpatrick purchased the property for their daughter Ann Fitzpatrick Brown. The couple restored the house to its former grandeur and opened Blantyre to the public in 1981 as a premium hotel with the hopes that visitors could stay and experience life as it was during the gilded age. In 1984 Blantyre became the first United States hotel included in Relais & Châteaux, an association of individually owned and operated luxury hotels and restaurants. In the year 2000 Ann and her staff began a five-year project to winterize Blantyre, which opened in May 2005 as a year-round resort with a decadent spa built in the converted “potting shed.”

THE BLANTYRE TODAY Linda Law purchased the property in 2016. She upgraded the estate with what she considered “a bow to the old and a nod to the new.” In 2018 the Relais & Châteaux Forbes Five-Star resort, Blantyre, added several new amenities and offerings for guests.

Today visitors can enjoy private tastings in the Dom Pérignon Champagne Salon with specialty vintages and delicious bites from a well-paired menu. La Cave, hidden underneath the manor, boasts an internationally acclaimed wine selection with 8,000 bottles, including numerous premier and rare bottles. The concealed space with original brick and marble stone walls create the feeling of a speakeasy. Secret passwords and knocks are a customary practice for parties at La Cave.

The resort offers 24 guest rooms, each unique and special in its own way.

The second floor of the original manor house boasts eight accommodations, the carriage house rooms offer stunning loft spaces with private terraces and guests traveling with family may prefer one of the more spacious cottages with outdoor patios.

The custom-designed bar from Milan, Italy, sits in the backdrop of the elegantly designed bar section of the hotel’s restaurant The Conservatory.

Photos of celebrities from Linda Law’s art collection line the wall behind the bar, and outdoor seating on the patio is available when the weather is favorable. The more formal section of The Conservatory with its vaulted ceiling, stained-glass windows and exquisite chandeliers, provides the perfect setting for Chef Jeremy Berlin’s farm-to-table dishes that are prepared with locally sourced ingredients.

The new spa area features five treatment rooms, a sauna, a steam room, a fitness center and an outdoor pool. The seasonal poolside café H20 boasts casual cuisine and cocktails.

bags in our room while we toured the property. David knows all the stories and offers a wealth of information regarding the estate and the area.

Activities abound on the property. A local naturalist escorts guests on guided trips along the estate trails, and maps are available for those that would like to explore on their own. Guests can enjoy a game of tennis, badminton or croquet. Those looking for a bit of relaxation can lounge on one of the Adirondack chairs or in the estate hammock. Be sure to enjoy a glass of sherry or port as Karèn Tchougourian plays classical music on the 1892 Steinway piano each evening beginning at 6:30 p.m. during the summer months and through October.

We stayed in the master suite where the hand-carved molding, magnificent crystal light fixtures and wood-burning fireplace complement the luxurious furnishings. Massive bay windows expose the enormous lawns that extend out into the forest. The separate sitting room with a pull-out couch provided private space for each of us. One afternoon while sitting at the exquisite desk next to the window, I pictured a typical garden party. Men were dressed in solid white as they played croquet, and women milled about with umbrellas sipping on glasses of bubbly. The children ran to and fro, and I could almost hear the laughter in the air.

A DELIGHTFUL EXPERIENCE When Gina and I arrived at Blantyre, we were greeted at the door by David Pupo, the concierge and membership director. He welcomed us by name and offered us a glass of champagne. Staff members placed our 42 | UPSCALE LIVING MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2019

One afternoon we joined a culinary class, offered on the weekends during the summer season, with the chef. He provided prepared ingredients to create a salad from his menu. Five guests attended the course. We laughed and got to know one another as we used tweezer-like imple-

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ments to design our dish. Once finished, we moved to a small room in La Cave and dined on our creations with a delicious wine from the cellar.

During the off season, mixology classes and wine tastings are part of the weekend program available to guests.

Treat yourself to an escape to Blantyre where you can step back in time and bask in the luxuries of days gone by. This estate is sumptuous, the service is impeccable and the experience will leave you with fond memories for years to come. ď ľ

The spa at Blantyre is glorious. We arrived early for our massages and lounged in the relaxation room while gazing out at the estate gardens.

This tranquil space is the perfect place to prepare for a spa treatment or to revel in the peaceful atmosphere afterward. Gina indulged in the Swedish massage, and I opted for the deep tissue treatment. The masseuses were well trained, and we left feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.

THE BERKSHIRES The downtown area on Church Street in Lenox has several quaint shops, and Alta restaurant serves delicious cuisine. We ordered several mouthwatering items off the menu at Alta. The region is full of stunning estate homes, including The Mount, the home of famous American author Edith Wharton.

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A Holiday Haven

HAVEN RIVIERA CANCUN | By Karen Holly Berliner

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T

his holiday season rather than saying yes to make your family and friends happy, why not run away from home and make yourself happy?

---And run away to Riviera Cancun, if you do.

To Haven.

Picture this: You escape the usual holiday madness as you fly towards Cancun Mexico, your chosen tropical destination in paradise. You are truly longing for this; you can almost feel the sun on your back and hear the crunch of the sand between your toes like finely ground sugar. You daydream without inhibition, of dancing in the moonlight to salsa and Mariachi strains. You can just about taste the Mexican mixology drinks and tall fruity cocktails, generously laced with tequila if you please.

machines, concierge services and 24-hour room and butler service, picture décor throughout the resort, rich in modern Mexican design, complimented with pops of vibrant color and fabric. To take it up a notch further, upgrade to Haven’s Serenity Club and enjoy an expedited check-in, exclusive lounge areas, an in-room aromatherapy menu, mini bar, premium pillow menu, sleep well kit, and daily alfresco à la carte breakfast options. Add complimentary access to the water journey experience at the on-site spa and pool circuit and one complimentary snorkel tour per person and you have it all at your disposal.

Before long, you will begin to make out the scenery below the clouds. Situated on the coast of Mexico, between Cancun and Riviera Maya, an adults-only haven awaits you. Haven Riviera Cancun is a member of Preferred Hotels and Resorts L.V.X. Collection - a collection of high end properties featuring fine accommodations hosting with top notch personal service.

​If you crave a little holiday pampering, MySenses Spa is their onsite sprawling sanctuary offering tranquility, wellness and the promotion of experiences with finely honed and custom therapies mindful of Mayan healing philosophies, which all combine to create a unique experience of well-being. The Water Journey Experience is a must, featuring a sauna, a high-density Hamman style steam room with a Herbarium Sensation shower, a luxurious ice fountain, a cold mist shower, a pressure shower for chromotherapy, a refreshing cold water plunge pool and a whirlpool Jacuzzi.

With 333 guestrooms, 88 swim-out suites, all with ocean views from private terraces, kingsize beds, a personalized mini-bar, Nespresso

Spend the day at the pool and on the beach.

Go for a refreshing swim in the infinity swimming pool, with ocean views and a swim up

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bar or the other large lake like pool, also with a swim up bar and loads of swimming and relaxing space. Located at the resort’s expansive pools, both feature swim-up seating as well as shaded outdoor seating and serves tall icy drinks, beer and wine.

Indulge at the on-site eateries and find everything from fine-dining overlooking ocean views to light bite casual fare. With a variety of international dining spots, restaurants ranging from fine dining experiences to a Beach Stand, the restaurants at Haven Riviera Cancun pay homage to the Mexican Caribbean and the in international dining scene.

Acclaimed among the best golf courses in Latin America Cancun Country Club and its El Tinto golf course, just ten minutes from Haven Riviera Cancun, tee times are subject to availability and must be arranged with the Golf Concierge at the hotel.

Feeling restless?

Venture to nearby destinations like Playa del Carmen, Isla Mujeres or Cozumel. Enjoy activities such as tennis, yoga, beach volleyball, ping-pong and water aerobics. Explore mangrove natural walkways, jogging and bike trails.

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CULINARY

Experience Sausalito’s The Inn Above Tide | By Tracy Beard

The city of Sausalito, California, is a charming bayside community situated 10 miles from San Francisco on the north side of the Golden Gate Bridge. Sausalito’s luxury hotel, The Inn Above Tide, makes the perfect basecamp for exploring the Bay Area. Every room faces the waterfront offering guests stunning views San Francisco. Come visit Sausalito and spend the day near the hotel perusing the local shops and stop in at Copita, a popular local eatery, for a cocktail or dinner. Book a few reservations before leaving home and venture north to the Napa Valley to taste exquisite wines at Rombauer Vineyards, or head south into San Francisco for a special dinner at Gary Danko, one of San Francisco’s Michelin-star restaurants.

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he Founder’s suite spans over 1,000 square feet and boasts its own private entry. When designers Antonio Martin and Sausalito-based art consultant Julie Coyle created the concept for the suites, the idea was to bring the outdoors inside. For the Founder’s suite, they chose a color scheme and design with grey silk-printed wallpaper featuring a school of fish swimming into the room from the sea. The suite features one and a half bathrooms, an open dining and living room, full kitchen and a rainwater shower. The dining table seats eight but can accommodate 12 to 14 people easily transforming it into a meeting room or small event space.

The City Lights Suite is adjacent to the Founder’s Suite.

The two rooms can be connected to create the perfect space for larger groups or families traveling together. Guests will

CULINARY enjoy The City Lights Suite’s indoor/outdoor glass fireplace, a luxurious bathroom with a soaking tub and rainwater shower.

The Vista Suite received a refresh during the remodel with a new private entrance, a romantic dining table for two and an elegant four-poster king bed. The room is painted in beautiful shades of blue to reflect the waters outside and is located upstairs from the previous suites.

All guests at The Inn Above Tide can enjoy the delicious continental breakfast offered each morning in the drawing room or in the privacy of their own room or suite. Every evening the hotel hosts a wine and cheese reception. Guests can use the hotel’s bicycles, enjoy high-speed Internet, and even book a private in-room massage during their stay. The hotel staff is eager to recommend places to eat or to assist in booking local trips and activities.

Throughout the year The Inn Above Tide offers various package deals. Guests can book accommodations at the hotel and take advantage of opportunities to explore the local waters in a private water taxi, rent a stand-up paddleboard or kayak or experience the area from the seat of a sea plane.

Recently my friend, Judy, and I spent a long weekend at The Inn Above Tide. Each morning we savored coffee and croissants on our balcony where we sat in the sunshine watching the local seals and sea lions frolic in the water below.

One evening we walked across the street to Copita, a lively neighborhood eatery serving modern Mexican cuisine. The dining room and outdoor patio is popular with both the locals and visitors. The menu, created by Executive Chef Daniel Tellez and Chef/Co-Owner Joanne Weir, boasts dishes made with local California produce and organic handmade tortillas. The restaurant offers over 100 tequilas and mezcals and is open for both lunch and dinner.

Judy and I began dinner with killer margaritas, chips, salsa and guacamole. We ordered roasted Spanish octopus with marble potatoes, garlic and guajillo, and 24-hour carnitas, braised pork with a tomatillo and habanero salsa, pickled vegetables and tasty handmade tortillas. We finished dinner with a decadent plate of vanilla buñuelos with sugar and Oaxacan chocolate sauce.

The following day we wandered the local shops and drove down to see the famous floating homes community. It was fun to see all the different colored houses on the water laid out like a typical neighborhood.

We returned to our suite in the afternoon for some pampering. We met with two professional masseuses that set up tables in our room.

After a fabulous one-hour massage, we were both completely relaxed and regenerated for the evening.

Wine lovers must make the one-hour trip to Napa Valley for the day. Plan to make stops at one or two wineries, but be sure to put Rombauer Vineyards at the top of your list. Koerner and Joan Rombauer founded Rombauer Vineyards in 1980. They had a passion for food and wine, and this passion was passed down to their children and grandchildren that still own the winery today almost forty years later.

in different styles. Rombauer Vineyards is an ideal place for tasting a variety of wines and having a picnic. Take some time to meander the pathways weaving about the terraced grounds. KR’s grandmother was quite the gardener, and she selected and tended most of the trees and foliage on the property.

Dinner at Gary Danko in San Francisco is a delightful experience. Judy and I arrived to find the dimly lit restaurant filled to the brim with diners. We ordered cocktails to sip in the bar before we were seated in an elegantly designed booth. When dining in a Michelin-star restaurant I like to give the chef and sommeliers the lead affording them the opportunity to send their best creations and pairings. I admit it is a gamble but I have yet to be disappointed. Judy and I ordered the Chef ’s Tasting Menu with five courses.

We began with the creamy risotto teeming with delicate rock shrimp, clumps of Dungeness crab, summer vegetables and Beech mushrooms.

The light and fluffy buckwheat blini topped with smoked salmon and salted with caviar followed the risotto. Next, the horseradish-crusted salmon medallion with dilled cucumber and mustard sauce came paired with a superb 2015 Roussanne from Eden Valley, Barossa in South Australia. The seared filet of beef with Yukon potatoes, Swiss chard, blue cheese butter and cassis-shallot marmalade was prepared to perfection. When the cheese course was presented on an enormous board filled with more than a dozen farmhouse and artisanal cheeses, we each selected five different ones to try. We completed this tasty meal with lemon soufflé cake, crème fraiche panna cotta and raspberry sorbet. The light cake went well with the rich panna cotta, and the raspberry sorbet added a scrumptious tang to the dish.

Visit Sausalito for a fabulous vacation. Enjoy the amazing views while relaxing in your room at The Inn Above Tide and explore some of the incredible things to do, see and eat in the surrounding Bay Area. 

I love the older-style, buttery Chardonnays, and Rombauer still produces a few. I became acquainted with KR Rombauer, the founder’s son, at the Classic Wines Auction in Portland, Oregon, earlier in the year. Because Sausalito was already on my destination list, I decided to spend an afternoon at Rombauer with KR. Over the course of four hours, I sampled numerous delicious wines designed and produced 49 | UPSCALE LIVING MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2019

CULINARY

The New Korean Cuisine

is gaining International Recognition | BY ADINA-LAURA ACHIM

Fine cuisine jet-setters should bookmark New York and Seoul as their newest hotspots because Jungsik- an expert in Korean molecular gastronomy is present in both cities. The two Michelin starred restaurant has received serious international recognition as the public believes that Seoul’s Head Chef, Jeong Su Jang is bringing the Korean cuisine to a new level of excellence.

U

pscale Living caught up with Head Chef, Jeong Su Jang to discuss the Jungsik brand, the future of fine dining in Seoul and the luxury restaurant segment in South Korea.

What are the competitive advantages of the Jungsik brand?

Head Chef, Jeong Su Jang: Jungsik was the first restaurant to bring the “New Korean fine dining” to a global audience, and the first Ko-

rean restaurant in the world to be recognized for its pioneering of “New Korean” cuisine with a Michelin Star. Chef Jungsik opened his first Jungsik restaurant in 2009 - when the fine dining industry in Seoul was almost non existent - with the aim of elevating and re-imagining Korean food. Jungsik Seoul and Jungsik New York have since evolved to become symbolic names in the international Korean fine dining scene, incorporating local inflections and tastes into their menus. At the heart of Jungsik’s contemporary Korean cuisine is “simplicity”; a failsafe approach for over ten years.

What are the future trends for the luxury restaurant segment?

Head Chef, Jeong Su Jang: Competition in the luxury restaurant segment in South Korea is exceptionally fierce. Fine dining is a relatively new phenomenon in the country, and so the industry is perhaps not as stable or as calm as in the West. This means that Korean fine dining chefs are constantly on

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the quest for innovation in their kitchens. We are seeing an increased focus on local, Korean ingredients, used in new and exciting ways.

This trend will continue.

Can Seoul become an international cuisine hotspot?

Head Chef, Jeong Su Jang: Seoul is absolutely a must-visit destination for food lovers; not necessarily only for international cuisine, but for the variety, depth, and quality of Korean food that can be found here.

Korean food has been somewhat ignored by international diners and press over the years, however this is changing thanks to a growing interest in Korea globally. In terms of competing via its international food offering; Korea is a new-comer to the global dining scene and still has a fair way to go. Korean food itself, however, offers a wealth of enjoyment for any avid foodie. I believe that one of Seoul’s merits as a travel destination is the opportunity to ex-plore and enjoy diverse and delicious Korean cuisine. 

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HOTEL

A Fancy Fork in the Road Upscale Living Magazine

Wines, Dines & Slumbers in Sag Harbor, The Hamptons | By Karen Holly Berliner

Sag Harbor is a living breathing paradox as it has as much a charming, low key village vibe as it does vivacious and glamorous feel, neither undermining the other.

Sag Harbor’s village streets showcase trendy boutiques, antique shops, art galleries and fine restaurants which create a blending of the old and the new, with historic homes and modern mansions sharing real estate.

F

or a sublime lodging option, the Baron’s Cove Hotel offers sixty-seven appealing and lofted suites with harbor views or lush private garden views with dog-friendly accommodations to boot, should you need for your little tail wagging tag along! Situated both on the harbor and a just short walk from Main Street, Baron’s Cove offers an array of high-end amenities including a heated saltwater pool, a tennis court, a state-of-the-art fitness studio, spa treatments should you wish and complimentary beach services such as transport. For onsite meals, the restaurant at Baron’s Cove is a classic All-American dining room, lounge and bar with a diverse menu, stocked with choices such as surf and turf, grilled hamburgers, fish and signature lobster rolls. Add to this, inventive choices like the burrata with roasted baby beets in a balsamic reduction or starters such as cove shrimp cocktail with cocktail sauce, lemon and bacon added, if you please.

Bang Bang shrimp with house made hot sauce, scallions, cucumbers and romaine or cassoulet lamb stew with duck confit, merguez sausage, flageolet beans and breadcrumbs, round out the menu nicely. Long Island beer battered codfish and chips with fennel-arugula slaw and tartar sauce are an East End favorite served here as well.

For another Sag dining choice, The Beacon brought to you by owners and veteran duo behind the concept, David Loewenberg and Sam McCleland, brings waterfront dining to a new level, delivering farm to table cuisine with obvious know how. The elevated dining room overlooks the cove, making it a prime spot for sunset viewing. Popular choice appetizers

include steamed mussels “Beacon style” with garlic, white wine, lemon thyme, cream and tomatoes and pork belly pretzel buns with hoisin, pickle, creamy kohlrabi slaw and sriracha to name a few. Entrees such as their halibut baked in parchment with sundried tomatoes, tatsoi and toasted Israeli couscous or deliciously seasoned bouillabaisse with lobster tails, mussels, clams, shrimp and scallops, are consistently satisfying. A popular dessert to savor is the local rhubarb tart with shortbread crust and vanilla ice cream. Add a full bar menu featuring craft beers, specialty cocktails and an extensive local, continental and international wine list available by the glass or bottle and the dining is more than a meal; it’s an experience. Its sister restaurant the Bell & Anchor in Sag Harbor as well, is another great choice executed by the very same dynamic duo. Enjoy signature appetizers such as the steamed mussels “anchor style” with coconut milk, lemon grass and Thai chilis and the ever-popular entrée, “Old School” lobster garganelli with corn, basil and saffron cream.

The brownie sundae with creamy coffee ice cream is the perfect ending to any meal served.

A new spot is an extension of the popular Manhattan seafood restaurant Ed’s Lobster Bar, opened a second location in Sag Harbor this season. Dubbed Ed’s Lobster Bar East, this site specializes in lobster rolls, fishplates and raw bar and while the menu is about 75% identical to the flagship restaurant in SoHo such as classic lobster rolls, lobster meatballs and New England clam chowder, Ed’s Lobster Bar East will have new menu items such as fish sandwiches and lobster pizza.

For an Italian cuisine option in Sag, Chef Luigi Tagliasacchi and his wife Robin offer Cappelletti Restaurant and Take Out. Cappelletti is a casual eating spot with some of the best homemade food on the east end. Focaccia sandwiches, pastas such as creamy fettucine alfredo, eggplant parmesan and everything in the middle are made to order with care.

Sometimes you just have to satisfy that old school Italian food craving!

Lulu Kitchen & Bar in Sag Harbor, sister restaurant to Duryea’s Lobster in Montauk, is a year-round bistro featuring wood burning cuisine, in fact, the centerpiece of the restaurant is its open kitchen anchored by the wood burning grill and oven. The kitchen is under the direction of Philippe 53 | UPSCALE LIVING MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2019

HOTEL

with heirloom tomatoes, mozzarella, basil pesto and olive tapenade are tasty specialties. Other entrĂŠe selections include wood grilled branzino with smoked tomato Provencal or pan roasted duck breast with wood fire grilled fennel and peaches and blueberry-hibiscus reduction bring a gourmet palate to its heights. Creative cocktails such as Smoke N Fire with jalapeno infused tequila, mezcal; lime juice and smoked volcanic salt are fresh creations.

Feel like food on the fly or served with down to earth flare? Harbor Market & Kitchen is a neighborhood market in Sag showcasing simply prepared ingredients, sustainable, local and seasonal when possible.

Award-winning Chef Paul Del Favero offers Mediterranean inspired, menus for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Add a full bakery, wood fired pizzas, organic coffee, fresh pressed juices, an artisanal pantry and grocery staples, housewares and gifts. Gluten free choices such as falafel, hummus, pickled turnips, pepperoncini, Israeli salad and tahini sauce choice: toasted pita or bowl or the salami sandwich with serrano ham, manchego cheese, baby arugula, extra virgin olive oil and sherry vinegar.

Vegetarian options such as French green lentils with pomegranate seeds, toasted almonds, piquillo peppers, and sherry vinegar add diverse options.

Corbet, a French-trained chef with several years of experience in Michelin star rated restaurants as well as top tables throughout Long Island.

Offering lunch, dinner and a late night menu, Lulu Kitchen & Bar offers a menu focused on local food products. Seafood platters including Montauk Pearl oysters, Top neck clams and tuna tartare are featured here, while other courses such as wood fired pizzas such as the Artisan 54 | UPSCALE LIVING MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2019

Wind down your Sag Harbor experience with a casual choice. K Pasa showcases a new take on classic tacos with a healthy spin. An American Taqueria, both vegan and vegetarian friendly options accommodate all.

The chicken tinga is char-grilled to perfection with lime and cilantro and the lamb with pomegranate, mint chimichurri and feta is an inventive treat, while the bowl of living salad with beets, cucumber, radish, fennel, red cabbage, quinoa, jicama and pepitas needs no further description. Pure taste and health combined.ď ľ

HOTEL

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SPIRITS

BOURBON The Bucket List | By Niyoshi Shah

Bourbon whiskey is distinctly American, even if the name references the great dynasty that ruled France from the 13th to the 18th century. And like many American commodities, bourbon whiskey has found its way around the world and into the restaurants, bars, and homes of millions of people, It has never been more popular than it is right now. When blending is used to achieve something headier, like to celebrate one of the most important figures in whiskey today, the creation of a unique expression of a much-loved bourbon stock is something that bourbon enthusiasts should certainly get excited about. This definitive guide of the best bourbons of 2019 explores everything you need to know about our favorite brown spirit

ELIJAH CRAIG BARREL PROOF Elijah Craig certainly knows how to create superb small-batch, cask strength Kentucky bourbon.

Strong creamy vanilla, maple butter, and candy corn sweetness seamlessly penetrate the spirit’s high ABV, along with a hint of oak spice and sawdust. Their Barrel Proof editions are bottled at 62.1% ABV (making it one of the lighter expressions compared to the rest), so you’ll probably need to add a drop of water if you want to fully enjoy this beauty.

OLD FOREST 1920 PROHIBITION STYLE Old Forester 1920 Prohibition Style is a straight bourbon whiskey, which means the bourbon is at least four years old (and maybe 4.5 years). 1920 Prohibition Style went into the bottle at 115 proof. On the front palate, a very brief berry note leads off the taste as the flavor transitions to caramel and toasted nut notes.

In the mid-palate, the caramel note drops off and seasoned oak and caramelized sugar lead into a light cream and delectable seasoned oak finish.

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SPIRITS

BUFFALO TRACE WILLIAM LARUE WELLER

BARRELL CRAFT SPIRITS 15-YEAR-OLD BOURBON

FOUR ROSES AL YOUNG LIMITED EDITION

This whiskey is perfect for the classic bourbon lover. It hits all the right notes and would be easily picked out as a favorite when putting up against the standard back bar picks. It has a sweet spot that doesn’t burn but allows some wiggle room if you prefer your whiskey on ice. Sweet honey crisps and fresh plums. Slightly herbal and minty. Wood comes through with a wisp of smoke.

This complex 15-year-old bourbon is blended and bottled at peak maturity so you can experience its true flavor. A blend of straight bourbon whiskeys from Indiana, Kentucky, and Tennessee, it is a perfect union of grain and barrel, with an old, oaky nose and a deep, honey- maple palate that reveals the lushness of the grain.

Most whiskeys are blended for optimal quality and flavor consistency. In the case of Al Young’s commemorative batch, it’s the bottle of Four Roses that has the strongest influence. Not because it’s rare or special, but because it marries together so many of the elements in a masterful spectrum. A hint of maple syrup fights to the surface, as well as notes of dried date and prune. A soft dustiness, leather, and a heaping helping of raw earth and clay round out the perceived sweetness in the nose. The palate is clean in terms of excessive bitterness and astringency but leaves behind just enough seasoned oak spice and a sting of alcohol to allow for a long yet unobtrusive finish.

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TRAVEL

Luxury in Leavenworth

Washington’s Alpine Wine Region | By Pamela & Gary Baker

Resembling a Bavarian alpine village, gently sloping Swiss chalet roofs cover Leavenworth’s buildings, their exteriors decorated with colorful paintings. Baskets and window boxes full of fuchsia flowers hang everywhere. Locals dress in colorful dirndls and traditional lederhosen as they entertain visitors in the town square or serve schnitzel and sausage in German themed restaurants. Surrounded by Washington’s dramatic Cascade Mountains, outdoor enthusiasts are drawn to year-round activities including hiking, rafting, skiing and sleigh rides. And every year, for three weekends in October, the town’s lively Octoberfest draws thousands of beer lovers. Bratwurst, beer and sounds of German oom pa pah music are plentiful here.

But there’s another side to this fun-loving town. Visitors looking for a pampered weekend getaway in this alpine village will find plenty to choose from.

The Post Hotel, a five-star luxury retreat in the center of town welcomes guests to its adults-only, 55-room resort. Known for its European hydrotherapy, the Post Hotel brings unique traditions and methods found in the Alps dating back hundreds of years to its modern Wellness Center. An array of steam baths and saunas, soothing saltwater hydrother-

apy pools, cool plunge pools, and the unique Kneipp stepping pools are all part of the indulgent and restorative spa available to all guests.

Around the swim-out saltwater pool, lounge beds are scattered about, perfect for napping or relaxing. Views of the gently flowing river below and surrounding mountains provide a tranquil setting. Other spa services including massage therapy, salt scrubs and skin care are available at an additional cost.

Breakfast and lunch, included with the cost of accommodations, are served in a restaurant open only to guests. Dining in your bathrobe and slippers is not only permitted but encouraged and the breakfast offerings are staggering.

Each morning guests can choose from one of three menu items plus the buffet. Picture an omelet with buckboard bacon, roasted peppers, fresh spinach and feta cheese, served with chicken apple sausage and smashed herbed potatoes. That’s in addition to a wide variety of fresh fruit, granola, European deli meats and cheeses, scones and Devonshire cream, yoghurt, nuts and pastries. At lunch, sit and repeat, choosing from an expansive array of salads and a choice of three entrees from the daily changing menu.

Our quiet and comfortable room, with a gen-

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erous sized bathroom and inviting standalone granite bathtub, affords a perfect place to relax in the afternoon and sleep like a baby at night.

The separate sitting space is a welcome spot to read or drink in views of the Cascade Mountains. French doors open to the balcony where we watch rafters float gently by on the river below us. The subtle earthen and clean white linen tones give the room a soft and warm feel.

WHERE TO TASTE Growing more popular with each year, wine tasting is big here. With more than 20 tasting rooms scattered throughout the city center and a half a dozen stunning wineries on the outskirts of town, there’s plenty of wine indulgence. Just steps from the Post Hotel, we love the Boudreaux wine tasting room, Patterson Cellars and Goose Ridge. On the outskirts of town, Silvara Cellars, Icicle Ridge and Eagle Creek are well worth a visit.

BOUDREAUX Boudreaux Cellars’ downtown tasting room, with its shared space, sleek bar and shiny suspended canoe, is a popular spot for wine lovers.

Known for making award-winning cabernet

TRAVEL sauvignon, Rob Newson and his daughter Keely, also make several other delicious varietals with grapes sourced from Yakima, Walla Walla and Columbia Valley.

GOOSE RIDGE WINERY TASTING ROOM Goose Ridge Winery’s tasting room has a casual open airy feel and its friendly, knowledgeable staff make you feel right at home. With wine bottles stacked decoratively in diagonal shaped wooden racks behind a low-slung bar, you can stand to taste, or sit comfortably in leather chairs or at spacious high-top wooden tables and chairs. An outside patio opens to Front Street, where, if weather permits, you can sit at small tables and taste wine while people watching.

Dedicated to handcrafting limited quantities of exquisite Bordeaux and Rhone varietals wines from the winery’s vineyard in the Columbia Valley, Goose Ridge is a small, family-owned and operated estate winery.

PATTERSON CELLARS TASTING ROOM For an exceptional experience, Patterson Cellars offers wine-tasting paired with your choice of culinary inspired chocolates or artisan cheeses.

Or a deluxe charcuterie board, prepared by Cured, the local sausage and salami store, is available with 12-hour advance notice.

Winemaker John Patterson strives to produce approachable new world wines that appeal to all palates. He makes single varietals and blends of whites, reds, and roses plus sparkling and dessert wines. We sampled the sparkling blanc de blanc, the Melange Blanc – a white blend, a Petite Verdot and a Syrah, both from Columbia Valley, and a Red Mountain cabernet-Malbec. With small bites from the charcuterie board, we found the sensory tasting experience to be educational and enjoyable.

EAGLE CREEK You’ll feel like you stepped into a Tuscan winery when you visit the tasting room at Eagle Creek. The barrel aging cellar reflects hand-painted walls, wood carving on barrels and smells like the ancient wine cellars of Europe. Outside, a curious treehouse and shaded patio overlook the vineyard and mountain view. One of the few outside Leavenworth that has been successfully growing Chardonnay, Riesling and Cabernet Franc in their river basin vineyards, Eagle Creek’s exceptional, artisan crafted, estate bottled wines are made from their estate grown grapes.

One of the oldest wineries in the Leavenworth area, Eagle Creek was founded 26 years ago by Ed Rutledge. Today, Ed’s stepson, Paul Sharpe, is the owner and winemaker. This fall, Paul released “Ed’s Red,” a montage of merlot and cabernet franc, and special tribute to his stepdad, Ed.

SILVARA At the top of the hill and just a short ten-minute drive from town, Silvara Cellars offers stunning views of the Wenatchee River and Cascade foothills. Throughout the year, Silvara hosts plenty of events to welcome wine loving visitors. But the music on Friday nights during the summer is popular with locals. Visitors can purchase food on-site or bring their own picnic dinner.

Owner and winemaker, Gary Seidler, produces limited batch Bordeaux style wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, and Merlot, by sourcing his grapes from the best vineyards in Washington.

ICICLE RIDGE WINERY Fashioned from a dramatic “log cabin” home built by Louie and Judy Wagner, the Icicle Ridge wine tasting room provides plenty of seating. It features a massive hand-built, river stone fireplace, large, glossy handcrafted log tables in the kitchen, and a view of Icicle Ridge Mountain from the window of the tasting room. This is not a “belly up to the bar” kind of place, but rather an exceptional winetasting experience as you’re seated to sample their hand-crafted wines.

Don’t be surprised if third generation owner, Kristin Collier, joins you for a tasting. The popular Blondes white wine, named after Louie and Judy’s three daughters, is produced from the estate’s vineyards. Their events are unique and engaging, like the wine hike with gourmet lunch or the midwinter snowshoe hike lit by tiki torches.

WHERE TO EAT We love Mana for its fresh cuisine and creative offerings. On Friday and Saturday nights, Mana serves a single seating, eight-course, three-hour eating extravaganza. The cost is $85 per person. The wine pairing option, which we highly recommend to fully appreciate the gourmet dishes, is just $29 per person. Reservations are a must. Sunday’s option is a little more casual with a five-course dinner that costs $65, optional wine pairings extra.

Visconti’s trumpeted Italian cuisine matches its award-winning wine list and attentive staff enhance the dining experience. If the weather is good, ask for a table on the patio with a view of the town and surrounding mountains.

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TRAVEL

When in “Bavaria,” you must try a sausage and beer in Munchen Haus. Apple cider sauerkraut, dill relish, sweet relish, diced onions, cucumber relish, sliced jalapenos and a staggering variety of specialty mustards are available to top off your bratwurst, chicken sausage, turkey dog or veggie wurst. There’s something here to please everyone. We enjoyed the German potato salad and a pint of beer with our scrumptious lunch while sitting in this shaded, lively spot. Beer choices range from pilsner to German chocolate cake ale. Icicle Brewing Company also supplies rotating specialty taps.

IF YOU GO Most people travel over the Cascades from Seattle to partake in the beautiful drive. But a flight into Wenatchee Airport, just 25 minutes from Leavenworth is also easy to do on Alaska Airlines.

Regardless of how you get there, you won’t regret your decision to indulge and relax in beautiful Leavenworth.

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GOLF

Wynn Golf Course Las Vegas' New Main Event

| By Tim Cotroneo

Wynn Resort accomplished something in 2019 that hasn’t happened on the Las Vegas Strip since 1952.

The 45-story Wynn Resort opened a new golf course in the heart of The Strip, the first 18-hole layout located on Las Vegas Boulevard since the former Desert Inn Course opened for business in 1952.

L

as Vegas has long been a golf mecca for gamblers, but most courses are located a minimum 30-minute drive from The Strip. With 129-acres in the Wynn backyard, the luxury resort tabbed Tom Fazio and his son Logan to design their 6,700yard championship course on the site that used to be home to the historic Desert Inn golf track.

Featuring lush Dominator Bent grass, 7,000 mature trees, and skyscrapers surrounding the course, Wynn Golf Club offers a one-of-kind golf experience. Wynn Golf ’s signature hole is the 18th featuring a 100-foot-wide waterfall just behind the green.

PLAYING AMIDST THE DESERT’S TALLEST BUILDINGS Golfers thrill to a surrounding audience of Las Vegas’ 176 high-rise hotels. Vegas ranks 66th in the world when it comes to hosting tall structures. When playing golf at the new Wynn Golf Club, anticipate viewing skyscrapers from every vantage point.

ONLY IN VEGAS MOMENTS A Las Vegas stay means potentially rubbing elbows with the biggest names in show business and viewing attractions that

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are unique to this glittering destination.

Standing just behind the 17th green and 18th tee box, you’ll witness the Linq Hotel’s 550-foot observation wheel.

WHO’S YOUR CADDY? A caddy is included with your tee time.

Several of the caddies worked at the previous Wynn Golf Course which closed in 2017. Each caddy provides a wealth of knowledge regarding course management, green reading tips, and glimpses into Las Vegas history.

LOOKING UP AT THE WYNN Throughout your round, the bronze glass exterior of The Wynn Resort is almost always within sight. It’s nice to know that before or after your round, The Wynn’s 19 bars and restaurants are within easy walking distance.

GOLF

THE BEST IN GOLF COURSE DESIGN You might guess that a hotel that houses top retail names like Cartier, Rolex, and Prada would choose the best of the best when selecting a golf course designer. Well, you would be correct. Tom Fazio tapped into his expertise designing from 200 courses around the world to showcase the new Wynn Golf original design.

FALLING FOR THE 18TH HOLE It’s hard to pick a signature hole from Wynn Golf Club’s amazing desert golf collection. but it’s hard to deny the wow factor generated as you tee off on the 249-yard, Par 3, 18th hole. The putting green is framed by a 100-foot-wide, 30-foot-tall waterfall. This dramatic cascade serves as a wonderful photo backdrop for bringing home a memory.

LAS VEGAS’ NEW MAIN EVENT After holing out on 18, there’s no doubt about one thing: The new Wynn Golf Club on the Las Vegas Strip will prove to be a main event for vacationers, conventioneers, and gamblers who love to golf.  | https://www.wynnlasvegas.com/experiences/golf

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RECIPE

Cambridge Mess by Pinkster Gin | By Felicity Carter The quintessential British dessert made with the Pinkster Boozy Berries twist, it’s super fruity, light and delicious. It’s quick too, especially if you use shop-bought meringues (shhhh we won’t tell anyone), and it’s a real crowd-pleaser. | www.pinkstergin.com

Ingredients

Method

2 tbsp Boozy Berries A punnet of fresh raspberries

Mash up 3/4 of the fresh raspberries with 2 tablespoons of the Boozy Berries with juice, add sugar to taste.

3 ready-made meringue nests, crushed

Softly whip the cream.

400ml cream

Keep some of the mashed fruit aside to drizzle over the top.

Flaked almonds and mint to garnish Fold remaining ingredients together and dollop into a bowl.

Drizzle saved mashed berries over the top, sprinkle some flaked almonds, garnish with remaining raspberries and mint.

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HOTEL

One Vacay, Two Vibes Circa 39 Hotel and The Palms Hotel & Spa | By Karen Holly Berliner Sisters can be super competitive...Which sister is the more popular? Which sister is the more fashion forward? The list goes on and on but truth be told, in the case of these two sister properties, they neither compete nor feign for attention. They simply have no need to.

Circa 39 and The Palms Hotel & Spa reside scant blocks from the other, both offering the moon and the stars in top notch Miami Beach destinations, but with as different personalities as night and day.

Circa 39 is a historic boutique hotel which gently usurps you from the hustle and rush of the Miami Beach streets and whooshes you away from its city clamor, to an awaiting soft whisper and then to a peaceful hush. Minutes away from the famous Wynwood Arts District and Miami Design District, sublime shopping, art galleries, cafés, cultural venues, Lincoln Road and Ocean Drive, venture out at any time, get a healthy dose of this vibrant city and then return back to Circas sanctuary.

Circa 39 features 97 guest rooms adorned in

natural green and white décor with furnishings in rich teak, solid wood floors and plantation style shutters; a welcoming and casual vibe.

Fusing eclectic international touches from jewel toned Moroccan colors to minimalist Swedish clean lines and other international styles in a lovely eclectic mix; the feel is suitable to all no matter your particular mood or taste. Enjoy the hotel’s beach area right across the way, with private beach loungers, or just unwind at the pool area complete with sun deck and cabanas right in the hotel, directly off of the lobby. Sip a refreshing cocktail at WunderBar, Circa’s whimsical lounge, which serves a great variety of beer, wine and a refreshing selection of mixology crafted and traditional drinks alike. JULES, inspired by Jules Verne’s classic “Around the World in 80 Days”, serves global comfort food with a playful and updated twist.

A full American breakfast buffet is offered and an all-day menu including brunch items, small plates, homemade soups, burgers, paninis, salads and delicious desserts, coffee, and natural juices. In saving the best for last, a unique feature of Circa is its serene courtyard hide-

away, an unexpected sanctuary to relax and enjoy some quiet time in a serene environment resplendent with florals, palm trees and exotic plants. Get a work out in at their onsite fitness room, featuring state of the art cardio and strength equipment. Also, in the spirit of sisters sharing, Circa 39 offers its guests exclusive discounts at its sister hotels’ Aveda Spa located at The Palms Hotel & Spa. Every Thursday, Circa features an evening of Island Tunes, Rum & Relaxation at its WunderGarden. Enjoy specialty rum cocktails including Sangria, Rum Punch and other refreshing drink options as well as barbeque light bites.

SUCH FUN! Circa 39s sister property, The Palms Hotel & Spa, itself just minutes from the heart of South Beach, offers a city-block of grounds and its own stretch of sandy beach, was built in a tropical Art Deco style, adorned with vibrant décor and rich colonial design details. Close to many cultural attractions, a vibrant culinary scene, enter and enjoy all of this resorts many offer-

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HOTEL ings. The Palms promoting green initiatives through the “Inspired by Nature” program, designed to repurpose and recycle, beach cleanups and an in-house Green Team. Featuring a sprawling heated outdoor swimming pool hugged by lush tropical foliage, private cabanas, lounge chairs and food and beverage service from The Tiki Bar. Depart through a private gated entrance, to a beautiful stretch of beach, offering guests lounges, sun umbrellas, towels, beach cabanitas as well as food/beverage service from the property’s Tiki Bar. Cabanas with teak chaise lounge chairs can be rented and includes wireless internet, large screen LED TV and lounge chairs with towels. Cabanitas include an ice bucket, bottled water and an Evian mister. Take a break from sunbathing and venture over to The Palms’ signature gardens showcasing lush grounds, a botanical garden and two chatty parrots; Sunshine and Chance.

An organic herb and vegetable garden used in the resort’s cuisine, add precious touches. The 24-hour fitness room features strength-training and cardio equipment. Guests can also choose from complimentary yoga sessions on Thursday evenings on the beach or Sunday mornings in the Grand Tiki or other, at times, locations in the hotel gardens.

fresh fruits and herbs grown in the hotels organic garden, as well as craft beers and sustainable wines. The Tiki Bar onsite offers resort fare, beer, wine and island-inspired signature cocktails.

Featuring an intimate indoor/outdoor dining room, a large Caribbean-style covered terrace and a breezy poolside terrace, Essensia embraces the true essence of farm-to-table dining where local and sustainable ingredients produce artfully prepared dishes. Essensia Lounge is located adjacent to the restaurant and features a vast bar and an al fresco lounge area. The lounge offers a menu of Essential Cocktails hand crafted with organic and premium spirits,

UP FOR A LITTLE PAMPERING? The hotel’s Aveda spa features holistic treatments, resplendent with natural and botanically derived Aveda products. The Palms Spa offers a wide range of massage, skin care and body treatments. For example, The Palms Signature Treatment starts with a full body exfoliation, with an Aqua Salt Glow Renewal Body Treatment in the HydroCapsule, which combines aroma-steam, Vichy-shower and hydro-color lighting therapy. Next an AVEDA Aroma

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Massage promotes internal balance. Float out of the spa, hit the town and do it all over again.

Cheers!

TRAVEL

Discover Toronto‘s Luxurious Side | BY TRACY BEARD

T

oronto, the capital of Ontario, Canada, is a vibrant cosmopolitan city residing on the banks of Lake Ontario’s northwestern shore. This dynamic metropolis embraces its history, strives for progress and showcases Canada’s appreciation for opulence. Soaring skyscrapers stand beside vast green spaces, and quaint residential streets morph into luxurious neighborhoods. Visitors can bask in luxury at The St. Regis Toronto, dine at delicious high-end restaurants and shop for designer clothes and services. Toronto is the perfect place to splurge on today’s modern luxuries.

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TRAVEL

LAVISH ACCOMMODATIONS Toronto excels in public transportation, but a chauffeured trip from the airport with Global Allure Management to The St. Regis Toronto will launch your vacation with style. The hotel was once the Trump Hotel, located in the financial/entertainment district downtown, and built in 2012. New management took over in July 2017, and a rebranding and remodel took place over the next year and a half.

Toronto’s first St. Regis hotel is one of the most stunning hotels in the downtown area. It is a wonderful blend of refined style and modern sophistication. The luxurious guest rooms and suites, tailored butler service and impeccable hospitality make The St. Regis Toronto the perfect place for people to live, holiday or connect and socialize.

curtains and a Nescafé machine. Chandeliers graced the living room, bedroom and hallways. The master bath featured a deep soaking tub and a massive shower stall with a delightfully large rain showerhead.

The St. Regis brand is known for its iconic butler service. Guests can text their butler for a cup of coffee or tea, arrange for garments to be pressed and indulge in the hotel’s complimentary packing and unpacking service. Alex stated, “The only thing our guests cannot buy is time; therefore, we give them the gift of time.”

The Spa at The St. Regis Toronto features a wellness menu with numerous modernized spa treatments designed for those seeking treatments for the mind, body and soul. The discriminating spa setting is the perfect environment for relaxation and rejuvenation.

GLAMOUROUS BEGINNINGS

EXCEPTIONAL DINING

John Jacob Astor IV founded the first St. Regis Hotel in New York City in 1904.

At that time, he was one of the wealthiest men in America, and his mother, Mrs. Caroline Astor, set many of the standards for high society. Marketing & Public Relations Manager at The St. Regis Toronto, Alex Marconi said, “The Astors were known for doing things grandly—it was the gilded age filled with glamour, champagne and opulence.”

LOUIX LOUIS is the principal restaurant and grand bar in The St. Regis Toronto. It is a place to hand-pick the type of experience you’d like for the evening.

LOUIX LOUIS boasts one of North America’s most extensive dark spirits collection waiting to be savored 31 floors above the city. Toronto’s history as the largest distillery back in the turn of the 19th century inspired the stunning décor, and “The Bouquet of Whiskey” mural on the ceiling, designed by Madison van Rijn, appears as if whiskey is swirling at the top of a glass.

EXTRAORDINARY ASPECTS St. Regis hotels worldwide are known for their three signature rituals—the Afternoon Tea Ritual, the Evening Ritual and the Bloody Mary Ritual. Alex shared how each St. Regis hotel creates its own unique tea blend and Bloody Mary. In Toronto afternoon tea is served every Saturday and Sunday from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 pm, and Bloody Marys are available from early in the day until late at night seven days a week.

The Evening Ritual in Toronto begins each night at 6:00 p.m. with a formal announcement and finishes with a champagne sabering and a toast for guests in the Astor Lounge. Caroline loved this ritual and felt that it was a fabulous way to “bid farewell to the working day and welcome in the evening.”

Rooms and suites at the hotel are enchanting. My corner suite boasted a fireplace, heated tile floors, six gigantic pillows on an enormous king-size bed, remote control

My dinner at LOUIX LOUIS was terrific.

It began with a champagne cocktail and a squash soup with pumpkin seeds and Parmesan foam. The perfectly cooked and seasoned beef filet arrived topped with a pat of tarragon butter and a drizzle of red wine sauce. I ordered a side of crisp-tender green beans with local blue cheese crumbles and thick-cut bacon lardons. It was my birthday, and the staff surprised me with a piece of scrumptious King’s cake, 13 layers of decadent chocolate topped with gold flakes.

PLEASURABLE PAMPERING Her Majesty’s Pleasure is the ideal place for pampering, whether you opt for a manicure, pedicure or a fresh look created by one of the professional makeup artists. The elegantly designed beauty bar offers multiple sensory beauty services while

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