LUX October 2016

LUX A GLIMPSE INTO THE WORLD OF THE GLAMOROUS

October 2016

Unmatched Arabian Hospitality

We Review the Armed Forces Officer Club & Hotel in Abu Dhabi, a palatial hotel originally built for the Officers of the Armed Forces of the UAE.

The Pioneer of E-Commerce Solutions Allied Wallet’s CEO Dr. Andy Khawaja prides himself on delivering the highest quality services to his clients and achieved market-leading status within the e-commerce industry all across the globe.

See what this ‘CEO of the Year’ has his sights set upon next...

Burley Manor

The New Forest’s Pastoral Paradise offering a tranquil and peaceful retreat.

Chewton Glen

Cin Cin by the Sea

Nestled away on the fringe An elegant Barbadian of the New Forest, Chewton restaurant offering sweeping Glen is an idyllic retreat. views of the Caribbean Sea.

Fairmont Dubai

Offering the ideal way to explore the Heart of the Middle East.

The Cary Arms

Combining all the traditional values of a classic English Inn with style and comfort. lux.acquisition-intl.com

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Contents Welcome to the October issue of LUX Magazine.

It might not be winter yet – we are barely past mid-Autumn, but it is hard to deny that the allure of the winter season is starting to intensify. As the cold weather sets in, the short-sleeved shirts are giving way to warm fleeces and scarves. The booking forms of ski resorts across the world are filling up in anticipation of another excellent winter of luxurious recreation. Wine cellars are stocking to stock up in advance of the Christmas frivolities.

It is in this frame of mind that we at LUX feel no shame in presenting to you an opening salvo of offerings for the coming winter. Before this volley becomes a barrage, from exclusive jewellery to exquisite beverages, and the very best retreat locations across the world, for those that wish to squirrel away the winter in unbeatable style and irrepressible comfort.

Today, in such a closely-connected world, those in search of a new destination or experience are positively spoilt for choice, as international appeal is an increasing prerogative for hotel resorts as well as luxury producers such as wineries and jewellers.

For instance, establishments such as the Shosuke no Yado Takinoyu in north-central Japan are making every effort to appeal to international clients and tourists, which starts by making their staff well-rounded linguists capable of offering masterful traditional Japanese service to anybody that stays with them, in addition to online promotions to draw people away from the big cities and into the lush countryside.

Likewise, an expanding online presence is very much the focus of the prestigious family-owned N. Bloom & Son; now as an online-only business, where its semi-retired owner continues to flaunt his intimate knowledge of jewellery to provide loyal service to his existing client base.

Perhaps one of the most important transformations in luxury markets these days is the realisation that the digitalisation of commerce is both a practical and highly defensible method of managing funds, all the better to fund that next romantic excursion. The charming CEO of Allied Wallet, Andy Khawaja, has enjoyed incalculable success over the last decade of delivering FinTech solutions across the world, and is committed to continuous innovation and renewal, in a demanding market with increasingly refined tastes and expectations.

Alongside these examples, LUX aims to provide what we have from the very beginning, a thorough and unscrupulous unpackaging of luxury markets around the world, drawing upon the newest, most exotic trends and presenting them to you – all in the buildup to the start of the Christmas season.

Please enjoy this month’s issue of LUX, and we will see you again next month.

Contact the Editor George Millar +44 (0) 203 725 6842 George.millar@ai-globalmedia.com

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art drive explore jewels pampering

4. Funky Furniture & Interior Décor from Modern Folk

8. A Stately Home, On Wheels!

10. The All-New Peugeot 5008 12. Zenith Aviation to Add Two New Learjet 75 Aircraft to its Fleet

16. The Perfect Urban Hideout 18. Fairmont Dubai 22. A Home Away From Home

26. N. Bloom & Son 28. Alexi London Jewellery

32. Azia Resort & Spa 34. The Cary Arms: A Rustic Rural Retreat 36. A World of Wellness 38. Bringing European Pampering to Connecticut 40. A Vision of Wellness 42. Lighting Up the Arizona Sky

real estate retreats

46. Telford Homes – Parliament House

50. Unmatched Arabian Hospitality 52. Burley Manor: The New Forest’s Pastoral Paradise 56. Sparkling Experiences at the Heart of the Alps 58. Jewel of the English South 62. The Craigellachie Hotel 64. Wald & Schlosshotel Friedrichsruhe 68. Tradition, History, and Sensational Luxury 68. Escape to a Pacific Wonderland 72. A Golfer’s Second Home 74. Le Chateau Lambousa 78. Under the Radar - The Hottest New Slope-side Destinations 82. Paradise by the Seaplane Lights; Soneva, The Maldives 86. Exclusive Luxury on Our Doorstep

style taste tech

90. New Ethical Lingerie Range Launches Crowd-Funding Campaign 92. William L. 1985 – A New Face to Luxury Watches

96. Cin Cin by the Sea: A Caribbean Paradise 98. The Very Best Turkeys, for the Very Best Christmas

102. The Pioneer of E-Commerce Solutions 106. Major New Lifestyle, HiFi, Portable Audio & Home Entertainment Show Arrives in Capital 108. The UK Independent Hotel Sector Today 112. Hotelbeds Group and What Now Travel Announce Revolutionary Partnership

tipple

116. An Intoxicating Night on Mayfair by Davy’s 118. Friarwood: Wines Worth Discovering 120. The History and Heritage of Martell 122. Royal Salute 32-Year-Old Union of the Crowns Unveiled

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Funky Furniture & Interior DĂŠcor from Modern Folk

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Funky Furniture & Interior Décor from Modern Folk

Modern Folk: the hot new folk art and furniture gallery is open to the public in Bermondsey as of October 2016, at 98 Tower Bridge Road. The gallery, run by Art Historian Kitty Walsh and entrepreneur Scott Hadley, showcases a curated collection of folk art from across Europe and beyond. A long time collector of folk art herself, Kitty has been trading in historic and vintage pieces for over a year and has gained a reputation for unique pieces that offer a fresh take on traditional styles.

Kitty Walsh has been collecting folk art and clothing since she was a teenager, and has twice been given traditional slippers by strangers who heard about her collection. Since graduating with a BA Hons in History of Art from Cambridge, she has worked with auction houses, dealers and private collectors as a specialist in European and Asian decorative arts.

She has an MA from UCL in the Dutch Golden Age and (aside from folk art) research interests include early modern travel, Colonial and export furniture and scientific ephemera.

Scott Hadley is an entrepreneur from the events industry who has previously run cutting edge cocktail bars in North and East London. He writes, as Scott Manley Hadley, the literary blog Triumph of the Now. His work regularly appears in the Huffington Post Blog and Open Pen.

“For me, these works are a link to our shared past, to a time when people would know the origin of every object that they owned, and most probably the person who made it.”

Modern Folk’s collection ranges from 19th century primitive painted furniture and religious icons to midcentury modern ceramics and Soviet-era posters, as well as new works including Russian matryoshka dolls and traditional embroidered slippers from throughout Europe. Choose from vintage taxidermy, traditional ceramics, naïve paintings or quirky kitchenalia - each piece is unique, hand-crafted, and tells a story. You could find the statement piece you have been seeking for your home, or the perfect present for the friend who has everything.

Name: Russell Cassleton Elliott Phone: +44(0)7808 403 963 Email: russell@cassletonelliott.com

The pieces presented at the launch include intricately painted 19th century boxes with floral and architectural motifs, carved Romanian wedding chests, and brightly coloured kitchen cabinets, tables and chairs. From the rich patina of a dough trough (£95) to the scarred surface of a butcher’s table (£750), these are pieces that have gained character through decades and centuries of use. With their primitive style and striking colours, they offer a fresh, new way to add a touch of heritage to a contemporary home.

Antique woven and hand embroidered textiles will be shown alongside traditional sewing boxes and distaffs (yarnwinders), highlighting the fact that these pieces were often made by the same people who used them. Some of these textiles have been ‘upcycled’ to create cushion covers and throws, showing how these traditional gems have relevance and beauty that work in our homes today. Elsewhere, traditional embroidered clothing has been repurposed into stylish, wearable pieces that are ethical and affordable, with prices from £85GBP for an antique, hand-embroidered linen shirt.

The gallery will present new collections each season, with a nod to current interior décor and fashion trends. For the forthcoming autumn and winter this will include a selection of vintage Norwegian fisherman’s jumpers, priced from £60, and artisanal slippers from Poland with sheepskin trim and brightly coloured embroidery at 25GBP a pair. Shoppers will find presents to suit all budgets – and ages – with traditional wooden toys, hand-decorated, starting from 15GBP. Sets of Matryoshka dolls can even be inscribed with personal messages, making them a superb Christmas or birthday gift, or even a treasured Christening present.

Commenting on the launch of Modern Folk, Kitty Walsh says, “folk art has been a passion of mine for all of my life, and I am really excited to share these pieces with the public. I love that each item is authentic and unique, that you can always see the hand of the craftsman or woman. For me, these works are a link to our shared past, to a time when people would know the origin of every object that they owned, and most probably the person who made it. These pieces are the ultimate antidote to today’s disposable culture – and they look great in contemporary homes!”

Funky Furniture & Interior Décor from Modern Folk, Bermondsey’s new ‘go-to’ gallery curated by Kitty Walsh, is open as of October 2016

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Call Us: +34 951 12 70 76 Email Us: info@lurentis.com

Sports and Super Car Rental Rent the Lamborghini Huracán across Europe From €1,600 per day!

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Tel: +34 951 12 70 76

Email: info@lurentis.com

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Blog: lurentis.com/blog

We rent cars from the following marques. See lurentis.com for full list of marques and models.

Lurentis DWC-LLC. Number 2521 Address: DWC Business Center • Dubai Aviation City - Logistics City • Dubai • U.A.E. • P.O. Box 390667

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A Stately Home, On Wheels!

A Stately Home, On Wheels!

The NCC is the trade body for the UK caravan industry, encompassing touring caravans, motorhomes, caravan holiday homes and park homes. The NCC represents some 800-member outlets in manufacturing, park operations, distribution, retailing, and in the provisions of specialist suppliers and services within the UK caravan industry, which is worth in excess of £6 billion per annum (sale of products, services and holiday spend). Now, this high-profile body are offering the chance for customers to take their car on holiday with them, on the ultimate experience in leisure vehicle luxury.

Morelo Empire Liner models start at £350k with no limit to specification options Optional garage to transport a car Twice the torque (1,200 Nm) of a Lamborghini Aventador, the pulling power of a Toyota Hilux (over 3.5 tonnes) and the same horsepower as a Mercedes-Benz C 300 Morelo Empire Liner 100 GB (model shown) spec.

Engine: 7.7-litre, six-cylinder engine Max power: 220kW / 299 bhp Max torque: 1,200 Nm Transmission: 6 gear automatic L / W / H: 10.29m / 2.5m / 3.72m Price: £378,200.00 (specific model on show £382,960) The Lamborghini of the leisure vehicle world will be unveiled to the UK public at the Motorhome & Caravan Show 2016 next week; the Morelo Empire Liner.

The new show-stopping super-liner from German motorhome manufacturer Morelo is equipped with premium fittings expected of a home, including under-floor heating, rain shower and even a garage, perfect for storing a car.

Over 1 million leisure vehicles are in use in the UK* and the leisure vehicle industry contributes in excess of £6 billion to the UK economy through the value of holidays, vehicle sales and associated supplies and services^, supporting over 130,000 jobs.

Many motorhome manufacturers are designing their vehicles to be as compact as possible but Morelo is bucking this trend with the Empire Liner, offering a luxurious and spacious interior. The smallest model

in the Empire Liner range, the 90 L, starts at 8.99 metres, while the largest 110 GSO model is a vast 11.29m in length. The Morelo Empire Liner took a year to develop and is based on a Mercedes Atego chassis, featuring a 7.7-litre, six-cylinder engine that produces 299hp.

The Morelo Empire Liner includes a huge panoramic roof that provides views from the spacious double bed. It’s the luxurious interior features like these that has attracted A-list owners and has made it particularly popular with customers from Formula One. Andreas Wolfer-Heimann, International Sales Manager for Morelo, said, “We’re thrilled to be unveiling our latest luxury motorhome prototype at the Motorhome and Caravan Show later this year.

Being the biggest launch event in the UK, it’s an ideal opportunity for us to showcase our newest super-luxury motorhome to the UK audience. We’ve spent almost a year designing and developing the Empire liner and we believe motorhome enthusiasts, and the general public alike, will be impressed by the craftsmanship and attention-to-detail on display.”

Morelo’s 100 GB model of the Empire Liner will be unveiled at the Motorhome & Caravan Show on Tuesday 11 October, with the show running until the 16 2016 at the Birmingham NEC. It will be joined by the latest models from a host of motorhome and caravan manufacturers, including Swift, Bailey, Elddis, Coachman, Lunar, Adria and many more.

Tickets for the UK’s largest leisure vehicle show start from £7.50** and include free car parking and a free show guide. Book your tickets now by simply logging on to the shows website at www.mcshow.co.uk or call the ticket line on 0844 873 7333.

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The All-New Peugeot 5008

- A New Dimension for SUVs

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The All-New Peugeot 5008 - A New Dimension for SUVs

The all-new Peugeot 5008 breaks new ground as a large seven-seater SUV in the C segment. As a new contender in this growing consumer market, it boasts many strengths. The allnew Peugeot 5008 SUV includes the latest digital version of the outstanding Peugeot i-Cockpit®, Efficient Modular Platform 2 (EMP2), and a plethora of high-tech features that enhance comfort and safety.

Behind the elegant, dynamic design lies a superbly practical vehicle. With seven seats, the new Peugeot 5008 is the first SUV to offer modularity on a par with that of the best people-carriers. A range of powerful, efficient engines and designs - including sporty GT Line and GT versions - is available for the all-new Peugeot 5008 SUV, to be unveiled at the 2016 Paris Motor Show before its launch in Spring 2017.

The all-new Peugeot i-Cockpit® elevates the passenger compartment. Inside, the driver’s environment is unique with the newest version of the innovative, almost futuristic - Peugeot i-Cockpit®, which offers vehicle occupants a novel driving experience that both surprises and delights. With its compact steering wheel, a large 8” touchscreen dashboard and a spectacular 12.3” high-resolution digital head-up display, the new Peugeot i-Cockpit® impresses drivers with its superior graphics and elegant animations.

Spacious interior and with more functions The 2.84m wheelbase of the new 5008 SUV makes it the most liveable of C-segment SUVs. The overall length of the vehicle (4.64m) remains compact as the new Peugeot 5008 SUV - though 19cm longer than the all-new Peugeot 3008 SUV and 11cm longer than the original 5008 - is still one of the most conservatively proportioned and its extra length makes it roomier for passengers.

The vehicle’s optimised architecture is only part of the package on offer. The new Peugeot 5008 is more than just an SUV. It stands out in the market with an innovative configuration: • Three matching, separate, folding seats in the second row, adjustable in length and inclination • Two removable, separate, folding seats in the third row.

• The biggest boot capacity with 780 dm3 VDA 210 (1060 litres)

This gives it a long and dynamic profile. At the front, the wide grille with chrome fins is exclusive, while the rear design features the gloss black strip and the signature LED ‘claw effect’ rear lights that set the latest breed of Peugeot SUVs apart.

Driving and travelling pleasure that rivals the best touring vehicles The all-new 5008 SUV, the 308 and the all-new 3008 SUV all feature the Efficient Modular Platform 2 (EMP2) and the very latest Euro 6.1 powertrains.

Whether the choice is petrol or diesel, all versions stand out above their competitors with engines of the same power class. CO2 emissions are as low as 117g/km for petrol and only 108g/km for diesel (UK specification vehicles).

This new Peugeot is an invitation to travel—in luxury, not least because it has excellent sound insulation and a number of features for the comfort of all on board: body-hugging front seats feature an optional multipoint massage system, FOCAL® Premium Hi-Fi system, large panoramic opening glass roof etc. It proposes also the best in permanent connectivity with the Mirror Screen function and 3D connected navigation system (with TomTom® Traffic).

Cutting-edge Advanced Driver Assistance Systems make driving even safer with an arsenal of safety features: Advanced Grip Control - including new exclusive Hill Assist Descent Control (HADC), Automatic Emergency Braking System (AEBS), Distance Alert, Active Lane Keeping Assistance (LKA), Driver attention warning, Smart Beam Assistance, Speed sign recognition and speed suggestion, Adaptive cruise control with stop feature (automatic gearbox), Active blind spot monitoring, Park Assist and Visio Park (360° vision)

The all-new Peugeot 5008 SUV can also have foldable front passenger seat (to carry especially long loads up to 3.20m) and a practical hands-free motorised tailgate.

The all-new Peugeot 5008 SUV is also providing innovative mobility solutions for today’s world by giving the opportunity to integrate in its boot the e-Kick, a very smart electrically assisted folding scooter, or the e-Bike eF01, a new electrically assisted portable bicycle. e-Kick and e-Bike both have a mobile charging dockstation.

An SUV with an imposing exterior One look will recognise that the all-new Peugeot 5008 is a real SUV. All the hallmarks are there: long, horizontal bonnet; vertical face; and raised body line.

The inspired design conveys power and respect. Its height remains the same (1.64m with roof bars – standard on all models).

A superior range of vehicles made in France The all-new Peugeot 5008 SUV range includes four trim levels – two mainstream versions (Active, Allure) plus GT Line and GT versions. Manufactured in Rennes, France, the all-new Peugeot 5008 SUV is unveiled at the 2016 Paris Motor Show and on sale in the UK from Spring 2017.

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Zenith Aviation to Add Two New Learjet 75 Aircraft to its Fleet

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Zenith Aviation to Add Two New Learjet 75 Aircraft to its Fleet

Bombardier Business Aircraft announced today that Zenith Aviation, Britain’s leading bespoke charter service provider, will take delivery of two brand new Learjet 75 aircraft. Having just added these new entries to their charter fleet, it’s fair to say that Zenith Aviation are pretty excited about their prospects for 2017. The stunning new aircraft, with an approximate combined value of a cool £30m, have Satcom and Wi-Fi facilities as well as an inflight entertainment system in each of the eight on-board seats.

“We are delighted to be once again working with Bombardier and welcoming the Learjet 75 aircraft into our fleet – the Learjet brand is synonymous with our facility at London Biggin Hill,” said Stuart Mulholland, Managing Director of Zenith Aviation Ltd. “Having seen the first Learjet 45 aircraft arrive over 17 years ago, we are now very much looking forward to having the iconic Learjet 75 business jet.

“The new jets are sure to be a hit with our charter customers as they bring a new sense of luxury to the existing fleet”, Stuart continued. “It’s been a stellar year for us, with significant growth and charter activity continuing to greatly outweigh that of previous years. I would expect to end the year having flown around 250 per cent more hours than last year, with other areas of our business also having seen significant growth.”

The business marked the arrival of its two new Learjet 75 aircraft with a prestigious High Net Worth event at London Biggin Hill’s Bombardier hangar, not only showcasing the sophistication of private aviation but also bringing together a melee of other luxury attractions including vintage Ferraris, vintage shotguns, exclusive fine jewellery by G. Collins & Sons, personal jeweller to Her Majesty, The Queen and the yet-to-be-released Aston Martin DB11 Coupé.

He continued, “London Biggin Hill Airport is a fantastic location which is why, in the last couple of weeks, we have also completed the purchase of a hangar next door to our current property at Biggin Hill, which will enable us to further develop our engineering business at the airport. Our customers are looking for a bespoke service and naturally, an exceptional experience but they are also looking for convenience as they are often time poor. With the new Learjets and the hangar we are in the perfect position to provide both to those seeking that A-list lifestyle, on the edge of London.”

The Learjet 75 jet features the pioneering Bombardier Vision flight deck with an interior designed for style and comfort. It is the only business jet in its class to feature an eight-seat double-club configuration with a flat floor throughout the cabin and plenty of leg room.

The Learjet 75 aircraft is also available in a six-seat executive configuration, offering enhanced comfort and productivity features.

Its more powerful engines and new winglet design enables it to cruise at a speed of Mach 0.81* and climb to an operating ceiling of 51,000 ft. (15,545 m).

The Learjet 75 can also achieve an exceptional range greater than 2,000 NM (3,704 km). Its modern interior features a new cabin management system with individual touchscreen monitors and full audio and video control; LED lighting throughout the entire aircraft; a generous baggage suite and a spacious galley to optimize catering. The Learjet 75 aircraft can fly four passengers and two crew members non-stop from London to Moscow.

“We’ve had a hugely successful year for our business and this expansion is a key part of our growth and development strategy moving forward. We are anticipating growing our fleet of managed aircraft and further development of our facilities, and also adding to our Part 145 capability at Biggin Hill Airport over the coming months.”

The new charter aircraft arrived at Biggin Hill Airport last week. This will mark a significant upgrade in Zenith Aviation’s aircraft charter offering following its move to offer worldwide flights alongside shorter charters to Europe at the beginning of the year. Both aircraft will be managed and chartered by Zenith and are set to join the company’s fleet in the coming weeks.

“The Learjet 75 aircraft offers class-leading performance and continues to set the benchmark among private jets in the Light category,” said David Coleal, President, Bombardier Business Aircraft. “We look forward to working with Zenith Aviation and are thrilled that they have selected the Learjet 75 aircraft to join their growing fleet.”

Bombardier is the world’s leading manufacturer of both planes and trains. Looking far ahead while delivering today, Bombardier is evolving mobility worldwide by answering the call for more efficient, sustainable and enjoyable transportation everywhere.

Our vehicles, services and, most of all, our employees are what make us a global leader in transportation.

Bombardier is headquartered in Montréal, Canada.

Our shares are traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange (BBD) and we are listed on the Dow Jones Sustainability North America Index. In the fiscal year ended December 31, 2015, we posted revenues of $18.2 billion.

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Best Budget Hotel - Nicosia

The Perfect Urban Hideout

The Perfect Urban Hideout Asty Hotel offers the best value that a customer can find in the Cypriote capital of Nicosia – or Lefkosia, to give its official and local Greek name. With free Wi-Fi and shuttle service, 24/7 complimentary beverages and snacks, cooked to order and buffet breakfast, as well as spacious comfortable rooms with TV and coffee facilities, this is a graciously accommodating establishment, and the most welcoming stay in the city.

Located in the residential area of Agios Dometios – adjacent to Engomi, where many foreign embassies are based – the comfortable accommodation of Asty Hotel offers five-star facilities, whilst priding itself on its two star prices. “At our hotel,” states Michael Antoniades the head of the family owned business,

A “ t our hotel,” states Michael Antoniades the head of the family owned business, “guests may arrive as a client, but they leave as one of us.” “guests may arrive as a client, but they leave as one of us.”

Indeed, everything at the Asty Hotel operates with a smooth efficiency that separates it from the outside world, allowing its guests to enjoy some quality time to themselves and in the company of other like-minded residents. The reception, for a start, operates 24/7, and from the small tourist information desk, complete with maps and other material, all the staff are more than willing to help organize guests’ excursions into historic Nicosia.

“Our relaxed area is designed to be a space in which people can sit and talk, watch TV, play the piano, and have their drink, all whilst remaining within sight of the dining room.

With a capacity of around 65 people, the dining room at the Asty is itself a spacious and colourful room, where a buffet breakfast and eggs can be served upon order. Meals, including some of the best-quality staple dishes of Cypriote cuisine, are prepared upon arrangement.

Michael lists the other major features of the hotel, expressing in no uncertain terms that this is a space for escape and private relaxation, where the hotel can become a home away from home. “Our quiet library area, which can be found on the first floor, is a small bright room with plenty of books, working tables and comfortable chairs, for those who need to work peacefully. In addition, a room with four computers is available for those that may need to write something while here. Printing of important documents can be done at the hotel reception for free.

“There is also a spacious veranda at the front of the hotel, which has a wonderful breeze in summer evenings and warming sun in winter. You can serve yourself and take your breakfast here in the morning, if you so desire.”

All of these delights give the hotel its ideal setting, located in a picturesque residential area of the city, just less than two kilometres away from the enticing, ancient city centre and the bustling crowds.

Company: Asty Hotel Name: Michael Antoniades Email: info@astyhotel.com Web: www.astyhotel.com Address: 12 Pringipos Karolou, Ayios Dometios, Nicosia 2373, Cyprus Phone: 00357 22773030

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Fairmont Dubai:

Explore the Heart of the Middle East

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Fairmont Dubai

Situated in the centre of Dubai, the region’s shopping capital, which is also home to stunning tropical destinations and glorious architecture, Fairmont Dubai is perfect for a luxury getaway to the Middle East.

With its modern design, hospitable staff and luxurious amenities, Fairmont Dubai offers the ideal way to explore this stunning city and bask in the perfect weather and inviting culture.

The hotel is designed to reflect the city’s contemporary yet classic aesthetic, and the hotel’s lobby has recently undergone a multi-million-dollar renovation, and the hotel also boasts natural daylight throughout the majority of its meeting spaces located on the 33rd floor. Embodying the rich culture of its surroundings, the Fairmount Dubai incorporates a distinctive architecture modelled after an Arabic wind tunnel to select guestrooms appointed in traditional style.

Offering 394 guestrooms, suites, and penthouses, the hotel provides a welcome retreat for any guest, whether they are traveling on business, leisure or combining the two. Polished granite floors and soft luxurious fabrics are united to create a soothing atmosphere, complemented by stunning panoramic views of the city from our luxury hotel accommodations in Dubai, UAE. All guest rooms feature well-appointed bathrooms, an exclusive collection of Le Labo amenities, in-room business facilities, separate chaise lounge sitting area and high speed Internet service to ensure that guests want for nothing and have as pleasant a stay as possible.

“Guests seeking a more exclusive experience can choose Fairmont Gold, a hotel-within the hotel, designed to meet the needs of the most discerning corporate or leisure guest.”

Guests seeking a more exclusive experience can choose Fairmont Gold, a hotel-within the hotel, designed to meet the needs of the most discerning corporate or leisure guest. Exclusive features include discreet and attentive concierge service, a dedicated check in and check out area; a private lounge with drinks and canapés; complimentary breakfast; complimentary highspeed Internet in Fairmont Gold guest rooms, wireless Internet access in the Fairmont Gold lounge and access to executive boardroom facilities.

Addtionally, Fairmont President’s Club members will enjoy a personalized service and some exclusive inroom offerings, such us complimentary High Speed Internet Access or Fairmont Fit, which includes Reebok shoes and apparel, yoga mats, stretch bands, and use of MP3 player.

As a business destination the establishment is unrivalled, as it is located opposite the Dubai International Convention Centre and ideally situated in the heart of downtown Dubai, making it the ideal destination for those looking to be able to quickly

rush back to relax following their meetings. The hotel also offers amenities specifically created to make the corporate traveller’s life easier, including its dedicated Dubai business service office which allows visitors to use their computers and take advantage of the hotel’s high speed broadband. Computer rental and printing services are also available for those who require them.

Businesses are also able to conduct their meetings in the hotel, with Fairmount Dubai offering a ‘one stop shop’ for organizers thanks to its 33rd Executive Conference Centre which boasts venue space that can host a range of events from Dubai corporate meetings, cocktail receptions, private dinners to product launches and press conferences. The facility is comprised of two distinct areas (Gulf and Palm) and is joined together by The Summit. This Dubai event venue is highlighted by high arched ceilings that allows for natural light to flood the space for daytime meeting breaks and lunches and transforms in the evening for candlelit receptions at night, making it ideal not only for spectacular corporate events which are guaranteed to impress even the most hardened business veteran, but also for more personal experiences such as weddings and special events. The hotel’s professional staff understands how important the right setting is for a successful social event, and as such the team at Fairmont Dubai takes pride in ensuring that all events exceed expectations.

For guests who are looking to relax, Fairmount Dubai offers a 40,000 square feet spa, which provides two distinct experiences; all offering luxury spa amenities in Dubai. The first of these is the dedicated spa facility with a luxurious Romanesque feel throughout. It has separate male and female sections, both featuring an opulent Jacuzzi area with Turkish Hammam inspired steam rooms, sauna, invigorating ice shower, two relaxing footbaths and a total of seven private treatment and relaxation rooms. Offering a technology free zone, the spas ensure that guests are able to relax and unwind, truly finding peace and unburdening themselves, allowing them to return from their holiday refreshed and ready to face the world.

The second location offers state of the art health club facilities and Dubai fitness centre amenities.

This includes fitness classes on a weekly basis to cater for all interests and levels, including bodycombat, bodyattack, bodystep, zumba, cross fire, core, and even ladies only classes.

Alongside the spa and health club, the hotel also offers a wide range of facilities and services to ensure guests have a pleasant and rewarding stay, ranging from babysitting, laundry and car rental services through to a 24-hour concierge service, who are happy to support visitors with anything from organising sightseeing tours to arranging dinner and travel reservations, as well as providing insight on cultural places to visit for a glimpse of Middle Eastern life, enabling guests to enjoy truly authentic Middle Eastern hospitality.

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Fairmont Dubai

Guests seeking a gastronomic experience need look no further; at Fairmont Dubai, dining is an experience that excites the senses. Dine at any of the establishment’s Dubai restaurants and learn more about the culinary feats that await.

Thirteen contemporary dining and entertainment venues offer guests an array of gastronomic and evening activities in Dubai from Café Sushi, the contemporary Japanese café featuring a selection of sushi creations to the bustling ambience of Pronto, the gourmet café. Enjoy a Turkish dining experience at Dokuz, that will mesmerise diners with a full range of flavoured shisha offerings and amazing views of Sheikh Zayed Road, while Cascades serves an array of international delights under a soaring atrium.

The hotel’s Exchange Floor is home to three unique Dubai restaurant destinations including the award winning Exchange Grill, noted for a tantalizing selection of grill specialties and an extensive wine list. Cin Cin, a chic wine bar showcases over 250 global labels, while a modern day cigar bar features an impressive selection of world-class cigars in a handcrafted, walk-in humidor. For a less formal dining experience, Bridges Sports Bar, on the lobby level is an ideal place to unwind after work or catch up with friends.

In room dining is also available around the clock to ensure that guests want for nothing- visitors can choose from a diverse menu which combines the kitchen team’s prowess with an international selection designed to appeal to all palates.

Those seeking excitement and adventure need look no further, as in addition to being ideally located in the heart of Dubai, Fairmont Dubai also features two of the trendiest night clubs in the city. Cavalli Club by international fashion designer Roberto Cavalli has quickly become one of Dubai’s most elite nightspots, while London Mayfair’s Cirque Le Soir brings a carnival atmosphere and spectacular theatrics.

Whether your trip is business or pleasure, whether you are looking to soak up some culture or indulge in a little shopping, alone or with your family, Fairmount Dubai offers the ultimate luxury base for your trip.

For more information on this sumptuous establishment or to book your stay please visit the Fairmount Dubai’s website: http://www.fairmont.com/ dubai/ or phone 1 888 363 5055.

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Best Luxury Hotel & Spa 2016 & LUX Location Award - Mikro Papigo

A Home Away From Home

A Home Away From Home The 18-room hotel resort of Mikro Papigo 1700 is a multi-award-winning hotel nestled inside the core of the Geopark Vikos-Aoos and Unesco’s Heritage monument, the famous region of Zagori-Epirus-Greece. The hotel’s cosmopolitan character makes it ideal for exclusive holidays, where guests can become literally immersed in nature at the heart of this renowned natural space.

The evolving landscape of Epirus is timeless – leaving behind an elegant legacy of Greek Antiquity, the Pindus Mountains typify the rugged land, giving birth to innumerable opportunities to vanish into the surroundings.

“ Within this landscape, the composition of Mikro Papigo 1700 is perfectly adapted to its surroundings, knitting into the landscape across seven buildings, 18 rooms and suites, a uniquely-designed eco-Spa and a restaurant, ‘ Veranda at 1700’, honoured by the Greek Ministry of Tourism.”

Within this landscape, the composition of Mikro Papigo 1700 is perfectly adapted to its surroundings, knitting into the landscape across seven buildings, 18 rooms and suites, a uniquely-designed eco-Spa and a restaurant, ‘Veranda at 1700’, honoured by the Greek Ministry of Tourism. Designed to avoid monotony and create a sense of small, private settlements, the result is imposing and striking both in external form and indoors. Almost a village within the village, it rightfully claims the title of the most beautiful “balcony” in the Vikos Gorge and in the settlements of ‘small’ and ‘big’ Papigo.

Evolving the landscape – beyond natural – to a cosmopolitan destination for exclusive vacations, still literally surrounded by nature, as from the hotel begins the path to the alpine lake Drakolimni and its shelter, the sources of Voidomatis river and the heart of the forest of the National Park of VikosAoos. Mikro Papigo 1700 Hotel & Spa is the first green hotel in North Greece, being awarded multiple times with the Green Key by the Foundation for the Environmental Education, as an example for its policy

focus on environmental protection issues.

With the slow food philosophy, evolved in response to the fast food and the ‘fast’ lifestyle, the excellent awarded restaurant ‘Veranda at 1700 ’serves authentic Greek breakfast and traditional recipes with a twist for lunch and dinner, using exclusively organic products which are grown at the resorts organic gardens positioned inside the Geopark of Vikos-Aoos, the Organic Zagori Farm.

Mikro Papigo 1700 Hotel and Spa, remaining ever true to its commitment to luxury design and issues concerning the environment, created an eco-friendly yet impressive designed Spa that minimizes any impact on the environment. The special attention starts from the organic pool filled exclusively with springs water in combination with the use of luxury organic care products are intended to make this special space a real gem in a perfect harmony with the natural environment.

Company: O.Drastiriotites.

Name: Mikro Papigo 1700 Hotel & Spa Email: info@mikropapigo.gr Web: www.mikropapigo.gr Address: Zagori, Epirus, Pápigkon 44004, Greece Phone: 0030 2653 041179

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N. Bloom & Son

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LUX Fine Jewellery Guide 2016

Ian Harris may be semi-retired, but he is proud of being a Freeman of the Goldsmiths Company and of the City of London, as well as head of the vetting committees at several antiques fairs, including Olympia. He is also the public face and head of the family business, N. Bloom & Son, now a steady online business.

Founded by his maternal grandfather Nathan Bloom in 1912, Ian joined the company straight out of school in 1953. Initially, the company bought, repaired and sold all sorts of silverware from plated to the finest antique silver, only to the Trade. It was not until the early 1960s that they opened their first Mayfair retail shop and began to deal in old jewellery, “because I noticed that women just walked past the shop as silver didn’t interest them, but jewellery would.” Ian adds “This was successful, and within a few years, we were selling more jewellery than silver.”

Harpers and other high-end magazines, gained clients from all over the world.

“We guaranteed, and I still guarantee, satisfaction with anything bought in this way, or now online, which of course didn’t exist then. Compared to photos, jewellery in the hand never disappoints.”

In 1971, Ian’s uncle died and he took over the business completely. “He was a formidable figure,” Ian reflects, “and I was a little uncertain about taking over, but it certainly did work out.”

Now semi-retired, and trading solely over the Internet, Ian is still contacted by old clients, having had the same phone number for over 50 years, as it moves with him. In fact, over the years a number of celebrity customers have sought his expertise: Ringo Starr, Rod Stewart, and Sylvester Stallone – the largest hands that N. Bloom & Son ever had to make a ring fit.

Indeed, Ian’s career since then has led him in directions that put him towards the top of his speciality – 32 years ‘expert’ on the BBC Antiques Roadshow on jewellery or silver, the only expert able to deal with both, and lecturing on cruise ships around the world. In the 1960s he was commissioned by the Antiques Collectors Club to write two successful books on the values of Antique and Victorian silver.

The old family traditions of N. Bloom & Son still weigh on Ian’s shoulders, as he keeps one foot in the past to maintain an old-fashioned discipline and attention to the customer’s needs in his continuing work. “I can help to sell unwanted pieces of jewellery maintaining all my old contacts, and getting better than auction prices, as they now take up to 45 per cent of the value with their buyers’ and sellers’ premiums. I can also arrange repairs and valuations.”

“My philosophy is to buy the best of its type and price, hope customers like what I like, be straight with buyers and sellers, and to give the best possible service and satisfaction.”

Company name: N.Bloom & Son Contact: Ian Harris Email: ian@nbloom.com Website: www.nbloom.com Phone: 020 7629 5060

N. Bloom & Son

As for the business itself, much has changed since Ian first joined. “At the end of our Conduit Street lease in 1989 we moved to a large and successful stand in the Bond Street Antiques Centre, before leasing, fitting out and opening a new shop in the Piccadilly Arcade in 2001.” The advent of the Internet age, and the increasing difficulty in securing a long-term shop outlet, gave Ian not merely an opportunity to stop working full-time, but to take the family business in a direction where he could access customers more directly. Ian ascribes the ease of this transition to his early innovations in technology in the family company. Email and the Internet have revolutionised customer contact and trading.

“In making this commitment, it is vital that I only stock jewellery chosen for fine quality and perfect condition. I also have a slightly quirky taste, which our clients seem to like; or perhaps we get the clients who like it”.

“My philosophy is to buy the best of its type and price, hope customers like what I like, be straight with buyers and sellers, and to give the best possible service and satisfaction. I am fortunate that although I no longer rely on jewellery for a living, I still enjoy the excitement of buying, selling and dealing, and I don’t see myself stopping until they carry me out”.

“From early on retailing,” he remarks, “we sent out an annual brochure, and after our move to Conduit Street in 1975 I originated the idea of a fold-out 8-page leaflet that could be inserted into high-end magazines, notably Harpers and Queen, we whom we had a long-term relationship. We printed up to 150,000 and with our distinctive advertising in

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Alexi London Jewellery

Alexi London Jewellery At ALEXI, it’s all about attention to detail and careful editing of the collection to get the perfect balance of stylish on trend pieces. One of our main strengths is the diversity of our range and we are convinced that we have something for everyone – including those tricky-to-buy-for people!

Our aim is that regardless of the age or personal style of the person you’re shopping for, you should always find at least something, or hopefully a couple of things, for every person on your Gift List! It’s a case of making sure we have pieces which reflect the main seasonal trends, but which aren’t too directional, they need to have a nod to the trend. We want pieces which add a little bit of luxe to everyday dressing which are easy to wear. And at the same time, you can go on the site and find something quite classic if that’s what you need!

One of the most important directions in this sector of the market is the trend for personalization. Of course, that’s a concept which has been gaining strength across all products and services for a while now, but for us it means we can be especially creative with our product offer. Individuality and a touch of quirkiness are increasingly important so our mismatched pieces tick those boxes – such as the Hug & Kiss series where you can have a stud for one ear and a long threader for the other. Or being able to buy Individual Studs so that you can mix up all the pieces and wear them how you want.

We are also seeing a growing demand for pieces which can be made truly unique by engraving a personal message– so we have added our Skinny Bar Bracelet which is the perfect shape for this.

Going forward we are planning to add to our range of plain pieces – i.e.: without stones – as that has shown great potential. We’d also like to add more Precious Gemstones – at the moment we use Agate, Rose Quartz, Labradorite, Chalcedony & Turquoise. We love the idea of symbolism within jewellery and there is definitely a shift in the market towards personal, modern talismans and the meanings associated with particular gemstones would be a lovely way to build on this.

For us, the most beautiful aspect of jewellery is the symbolism and the sentiment behind each piece.

Which is why the whole layering and stacking concept has been so popular, because you reflect your own personal story through the combination of pieces you choose to wear. And everyone loves a good story, right?

Company: ALEXI London Jewellery Name: Shirley Hampson-Jones, Brand Manager Web: www.alexilondon.com

Another area of growing interest is the trend for Ear Crawlers, which brings a new level of creativity to the design element, and also for “Peekaboo” Earrings (two-part earrings made up of a stud plus a separate section which sits below the earlobe).

Lately across the design world, there has been a move toward angular and geometric forms across all kinds of product areas. We have focused on creating angular pieces which reflect the trend but still wearable and accessible. We’ve had fun with Prisms, Triangles and Linear graphic shapes with our Modern Geometric pieces.

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Best Exclusive Hotel & Spa - Cyprus & LUX Award for Location: Morokambos Plantation

Azia Resort & Spa

Azia Resort & Spa The Azia Resort & Spa, in the pleasant historical seaside resort of Paphos, offers luxury as a standard, and has all the diversity to keep its guests content for a week or longer. Each element of the hotel has its own character and fulfils different aspirations of the visitor’s distinguished appetites.

All 278 of the hotel’s rooms are about sophisticated, spacious living and luxury. At first glance, there appears to be a simple choice between a mountainview suite or a sea-view suite – however, with bespoke designs in every room, and in such a dynamic, characterised establishment, it is worth taking the time to review the numerous other options available.

There are large sea-view rooms with an open-plan sitting area, outfitted with sofa, sun beds, and a private Jacuzzi on the private balcony. Other frontfacing rooms are made ideal for families and others are exclusive to adults. For those clients looking for almost royal levels of privacy and indulgence, meanwhile, the Premium rooms are the ideal choice.

“ The plethora of accommodation options creates a truly bespoke feel within the loving embrace of this spacious hotel.”

The plethora of accommodation options creates a truly bespoke feel within the loving embrace of this spacious hotel. Outside of the rooms, meanwhile, the Azia Resort never falls short of pleasureable escapes. A huge lagoon-shaped pool forms the heart of the complex, with the restaurants, accommodation blocks, amphitheatre radiating outwards. The Asphodel Spa, a stone’s throw from this central spot, offers a sauna, Turkish bath/Hammam, massage rooms, and a range of aromatherapy treatments, body scrubs, facials and other aesthetic treatments.

fresh batches to the hotel every day, to be prepared and served in salads and platters, marmalades, jams, desserts, and freshly squeezed orange juice.

In principle it is a commercial enterprise, though it is also an effort to provide guests at the hotel with the health benefits of their plantation. As such, guests are invited to explore the plantation, pick their own fruit, and enjoy delightful picnics in the cool shade of the walnut groves.

This arrangement enables the Azia to treat its guests to a variety of produce bursting with unspoiled freshness, harvested daily from the trees of the plantation and distributed across the hotel’s bountiful pursuits.

Company: Azia Resort & Spa Name: Nicoletta Georgiou Email: info@aziaresort.com Web: www.aziaresort.com Address: Akamas Avenue, 62108 Paphos 8061, Cyprus Phone: +(357) 26 845 100

The hotel is also secure in its privacy, being perched on the seafront side by a steep cliff. Down a fiveminute track that hugs the cliff face, the beach and the sparkling Mediterranean await.

The Economides family, who own the hotel, also aim to become one of the few hotels in the world that grows nearly all the daily produce offered to its guests. The Morokambos Plantation covers an area of 530.000m2² and houses some 15,000 Mediterranean and tropical plants. Species of citrus, avocado, palm, guava and mango grow in abundance, and the hotel staff cut and transport

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The Cary Arms:

A Rustic Rural Retreat

Brimming with coastal charm, The Cary Arms, which also incorporates the Spa on the Beach, combines all the traditional values of a classic English Inn with the style and comfort of the best luxury hotels in Devon.

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lux Set against the stunning natural beauty of Babbacombe Beach in Torquay, The Cary Arms offers everything guests need to truly relax and unwind; offering a luxurious spa, beautifully furnished views and a decedent repast of fresh, local dining, this sumptuous five-star boutique inn is perfect for those looking to get away from it all and escape into a countryside retreat.

Cosy, well furnished rooms commanding amazing views of the sea provide a perfect night’s sleep for any guest. Furnishings are themed around the establishment’s nautical setting make for a unique atmosphere to the rooms.

Those looking for a little more privacy can indulge in one of the Cary Arms’ three recently restored cottages, which range from three to five bedrooms, each a short walk from the inn and spa. Decorated by Kathleen Fraser, the cottages reflect the coastal style and comfort of the inn with the added benefits of their own outdoor dining terraces, gardens and BBQ, as well as being dog friendly, ensuring the guests can bring their pets to enjoy the luxury of this stunning beachside hotel.

For those who are bringing their dogs along (and for those who are not), the hotel is perfectly situated for long rambling walks along the coast, where visitors can drink in the natural splendour of some of South Devon’s finest countryside. The Cary Arms boasts two dog-friendly rooms on the ground floor: ‘Rear Admiral’ and ‘Commander’, both with their own seafacing balconies, as well as two Suites adjacent to the Inn: the one bedroomed Shell and two bedroomed Pebble. Beds and bowls are provided to ensure that man’s best friend has a comfortable stay, and with staff regularly on hand to provide fuss and attention to their four-legged guests it is no surprise that the hotel is regularly frequented by dog owners seeking a break with their pets.

“Cosy, well furnished rooms commanding amazing views of the sea provide a perfect night’s sleep for any guest.”

Children are also welcomes to the hotel with open arms, and are provided with their own fishing nets and bait so that they can happily meander the rock pools in search of crabs and urchins whilst the adults enjoy a wander across some of the most breath taking landscape that the Southwest has to offer.

Following a brisk stroll there is nothing better than a refreshing drink and a relaxing meal, and although the locality boasts many pleasant eateries none can compare to the hotel’s own Coastal Chic restaurant, which offers a range of locally sourced meals styled around traditional local recipes, such as Brixham battered fish and hand-cut chips, served with minted peas and tartare sauce or the Devon steak, mushroom and Otter ale pie, accompanied by dauphinoise potatoes and seasonal vegetables all smothered in a rich red wine jus. Additionally, the specials board changes daily reflecting Devon coast and Devon country in equal measure, allowing guests to sample some of the best local produce from

The Cary Arms: A Rustic Rural Retreat

one of the finest kitchens in the region, led by Head Chef, Ben Kingdon, whose passion for fresh, local ingredients shines through.

The starter menu focuses on the abundance of fresh seafood the establishment has at hand, including a flavourful Devon crab and crayfish cocktail with Marie rose sauce and melba toast or fresh oysters served on crushed ice with samphire and lemon. There are also plenty of options for vegetarians, such as the rich and filling wild mushroom, pea and Sharpham brie risotto topped with truffle oil or the courgette, artichoke and sun blushed tomato pappardelle, cooked in a white wine and cream sauce topped with parmesan, as well offering a children’s menu for younger diners.

Breakfast is a hearty affair featuring locally sourced produce which makes for the perfect start to the day.

Charmingly restored, the historic inn is warmed by a log burner on cooler days, with a well maintained garden for outdoor dining when the warmer weather sets in.

The informal atmosphere makes the restaurant, which also offers a well-stocked bar, the perfect setting for a relaxing drink. Beamed ceilings, original stone walls, planked floors, books and board games ensure everyone is catered for. Sympathetic to its proud heritage, the welcoming interior combines clean lines with a neutral coastal palette.

Inside, big windows show off views across the bay.

Portland Bill, fifty miles away, is visible on clear days.

A crackling log fire and the lure of a proper pint makes it feel special and secluded here. Otter Ale and Bays are just two of the bar’s highlights, and these rich and hearty ales are a requirement for those looking to sample a true taste of Devonshire.

The final finishing touch to the ultimate recuperation is a Yon-Ka spa treatment at Spa on the Beach, which offers visitors a range of luxurious treatments designed to indulge both mind and body.

Although it makes the ideal establishment for a comfortable and relaxing break all year round, the Cary Arms is also the perfect place to enjoy a festive seaside break. Guests will be treated to a Devon cream tea, Champagne breakfasts, a lavish five course Christmas lunch, evening cocktails and entertainment. They can while away the afternoons with relaxing games of billiards and enjoy brisk walks along the South West Coast Path. For those looking to escape for the New Year, the hotel’s New Year House Party offers an ideal escape from the madness of year end parties in favour of refinement and style.

Ultimately for those looking to rejuvenate and relax in the heart of the resplendent Devon countryside and enjoy the very best hospitality that Torquay has to offer, they can do no better than the Cary Arms, where friendly staff, sumptuous food and a glorious setting all combine to create the perfect rural idyll.

To find out more or to make a reservation please visit the hotel’s website: https://www.caryarms.co.uk/ or call + 44 (0) 1803 327110.

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A World of Wellness Based in Florida, Code of Life’s Boutique Wellness Studio provide pilates, barre, dance and cardio classes for a highly diverse range of clients. We spoke to Hosanna De Linares, President of the studio, to find out how they provide a truly unforgettable experience.

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lux To kick things off, could you tell our readers about what people can expect to experience when visiting your studio, and the type of exercises involved?

At Code of Life’s Boutique Wellness Studio, you are trained to be mindful and aware of your body movement as you are shown how to excel to your personal best through our ever-changing exercises.

Code of Life’s reformer, barre and CoreALign classes are based on the six pilates principles: concentration, centering, control, breathing, precision and flow.

The reformer is a piece of resistance exercise equipment designed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century. It consists of a platform that moves back and forth along a carriage. Resistance is provided by the exerciser’s body weight and by springs attached to the carriage and platform. The reformer provides finely tuned exercise resistance that allows one to work very precisely to develop good alignment, core strength and flexibility. These things in turn, lead to daily life improvements such as better posture, graceful, efficient movement, and for many, relief from pain associated with physical imbalances such as back pain.

Designed by Jonathan Hoffman, a physical therapist and fitness enthusiast, CoreAlign was created with the belief that the body functions and heals best when movements are anatomically sound and balanced. As a training tool, CoreAlign exercises are designed to create harmony between controlled stability and dynamic mobility, resulting in a strong, healthy and vibrant body. The CoreAlign method stimulates our core stability muscles to fire in perfect timing while performing functional exercises, deep stretches and core-controlled aerobic training.

This makes it a perfect addition to a Pilates studio, personal training or physical therapy practice.

The barre is used as a prop to balance while doing exercises that focus on isometric strength training, combined with high reps of a small range-of-motion movements. Barre combines pilates, yoga and ballet moves to give you beautiful, sculpted and lean muscles. In order to provide a variety for our customers, we continue to design and develop new and challenging exercises that will make them stronger, and will keep them wanting to come back and experience more of our fun and dynamic classes.

Company: Code of Life Name: Hosanna De Linares Email: info@code-of-life.com Web Address: www.code-of-life.com Address: 328 Crandon Blvd. Suite 210.

Key Biscayne, FL 33149 Telephone: +1 305 490 4201

Through this process, you will be guided to grow stronger physically and mentally, balancing the body and mind so that when you walk out the door you move gracefully towards a well-balanced life, making your practice your lifestyle. Additionally, Code of Life also offers health coaching to help you make positive choices that enhance your personal physical, mental and spiritual health. Also at Code of Life’s Boutique shop, you will find the best curated style activewear brands from around the world.

Could you tell us a bit more about how long you have been running and the beautiful location that you are based in?

Code of Life was born three years ago in Key Biscayne in Florida, which is an island oasis with world renowned parks at both ends. The island has become famous for both golf and tennis tournaments, and its unique surrounding means that it attracts visitors from across the globe.

A World of Wellness

What would say are the major attractions behind your boutique studio?

We focus on the fundamentals of pilates, exercises that involve practicing on the mat, reformer, barre and core align. In order to provide a variety for our customers, we continue to design and develop new and challenging exercises and we also offer wellness programs and nutritional coaching.

Tell us about a typical Code of Life client?

There is no typical client at Code of Life and we provide form all walks of life. In the beginning, the first Code of Life clients were friends of mine, and from then one, the word spread about our services and we have continued to grow from strength to strength.

To what extent do you think that hotel and spa industry is built around creating unforgettable experiences and providing exquisite escapes from everyday life?

I think this is basically what we are all about and is what we try to achieve with each and every customer that comes to our business.

Can you outline some of the qualities of your establishment, such as extravagance, elegance, sophistication and peerless customer service that ensures visitors return again and again?

Code of Life’s space, classes and environment are designed to make you feel at home. They are like your sanctuary, a sacred space where you feel safe, where you feel free, where you know that as soon as you walk in the door all your worries and anxieties can be left behind. It is where people can allow themselves to trust and be guided into a truly unforgettable experience.

What makes put the success of your company down to?

First and foremost, I passionately believe in what I do and what I have to offer. What makes my job so much easier is that I really love what I do, and my clients are people I care about and who I am motivated to do my very best for.

What contribution do your staff make to the success of your firm?

Our staff are the backbone behind our success, where each instructor trains daily and is continuing to grow their own practices. We are all united by the fact that we take a personal touch to what we do, love what we do and believe in what Code of Life stands for.

Looking ahead, what challenges lie ahead in 2016 for your firm?

In this business field, success is staying current with what is constantly developing and differentiating yourself from others. We believe that our business has continued to develop and grow in line with our clients ever-evolving needs.

Thank you so much for taking the time to speak to us.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I would to close by saying that I feel blessed to be able to do what I love and be able to share my passion with others.

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Bringing European Pampering to Connecticut

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Bringing European Pampering to Connecticut

When spa owner and aesthetician Shahla Alihagh relocated with her husband from England to Connecticut about seven years ago, the savvy businesswoman brought a new pampering and personal care concept to Connecticut when she opened her Shahla Day Spa & Threading.

LUX Hotel & Spa Awards 2016

“No one knew what threading was,” said Alihagh, who introduced Central Connecticut to the ancient Middle Eastern hair removal technique that has recently gained popularity in the United States; the procedure uses a doubled-up strand of cotton threat to twist around and remove individual hairs. “I had people calling who thought I had spelled something wrong because they had never heard of threading. I invited clients to come in and try it for free and they were amazed,” she remarked. “It was interesting to me to introduce something new to this area.”

Alihagh, whose celebrity list of clients in England included former Spice Girl Geri Halliwell and model Naomi, opened a new business in Plainville, CT, spotlighting the threading procedure. As a veteran spa owner who is well-acquainted with and committed to the European philosophy that skin should be carefully cared for, she also focused the business on skin care, going above and beyond the common misconception that a facial is simply of matter of smearing on layer after layer of sweet-smelling product.

“In Europe, taking care of the skin is an important routine,” said Alihagh, referring to other countries where women take better care of their skin by avoiding sun, wearing hats and appreciating the importance of timely deep cleansing facials at a very early age. “My job at my spa is to teach women here how to take care of their skin as well.”

Based on her business growth since she started, her philosophy and hard work is paying off.

“We had a tough first two years because the concept of threading was new and people had to become familiar with our other services and how we do them better,” said Alihagh, whose spa also offers eyelash and eyebrow tinting, eyelash extensions and spa packages. “We focus on what we do best. We do not want to expand quickly or raise prices just because everyone around might be. Quality is first.”

Since opening, Shahla Spa & Threading has stepped up to customer demands and trends also offering special packages for children’s spa parties, bachelorette parties and wedding party services. The spa’s stellar reputation has steadily grown since she opened, and her clientele is a diverse mix ranging from pre-teens to senior citizens.

“I like having that range in my business. And it’s not just about the treatment itself but about what the customer needs. Maybe they can find an escape here after a bad day, or need a smile. That is as much a part of my business as the actual service.”

As Alihagh is a dedicated fan of the skin care line Dermalogica, a facial at Shahla Day Spa & Threading is not a routine experience, but one that includes a skin analysis and treatment that is designed for a client’s skin type, special issues and age.

Alihagh’s commitment to customer service is one that she emphasizes as she trains the staff at her salon that includes the main threading, manicure and pedicure area as well as separate private massage and facial rooms.

“Dermalogica is a very well-known European product and one I like to use, simply because it is the best,” Alihagh said. When a client comes to her spa for the first time, she is careful to explain how she has worked with the company for 20 years, her familiarity with the diverse product line and the good results her clients have enjoyed for decades.

Her staff is testimony to the quality product she offers at her spa. Most of her staff, as committed to quality service as she is, have been at the salon since she opened. That is her goal as an employer.

Emphasizing that in a very competitive market, she is careful to price accordingly in order to make all of her services, which also include manicures and pedicures and stylized massages, very affordable.

“I think it is most important first to have a clean and comfortable business, one that welcomes a client as soon as they walk through the door,” said Alihagh, whose salon boasts a minimalist yet soothing decor, with a contemporary kind of feel. “I am very aware that clients want what they pay for and price my services accordingly,” she continued. “I strive to make sure that both me and my staff provide a service that is perfect as possible, whether they are first time or repeat clients.”

Company: Shahla Day Spa & Threading Name: Alihagh Shahla Web: shalahdayspaandthreading.com Address: 29 East Street, Plainville, Connecticut, 06062 Phone: 001-860-517-8335

“I think there is a value to attentiveness that goes hand in hand with quality service and good results,” she also remarked, emphasizing the necessary balance between performing a service and making it a special experience.

“I do this from my heart and I like to think it shows.”

The adage is that money can’t buy everything and Alihagh’s spa provides it in what it offers that no amount of money can buy, attentive customer service.

“I am an owner who is on the floor and serving my clients because I am the one who is ultimately responsible for their good experience,” she said. “I am professional when it comes to what I do, but very warm as well. I try to make them comfortable. I want them to enjoy the experience whether they are preparing for a special event, recuperating after a difficult time or just need a break from a busy and stressful schedule and need and deserve some pampering.

“The first thing I talk to new staff about is the standard I set for myself and for them when it comes to serving clients,” she commented. “I make sure they know their job, the products we use and remind them that if they are doing their best, it has to be to my standards.”

There is one more component to Alihagh‘s business model of success, community involvement.

“I contribute to so many community events, nonprofit fundraisers, school events and other good causes. That is also an important part of being a good businesswoman, being involved in the community here your business is located. My attitude is if you can help, why not?”

Alihagh admits that perhaps being so focused on customer service, while still maintaining such a high standard when it comes to the products used and keeping prices competitive, may not seem like the best way possible to make the most money, and yet it is still the way in which she wants to do business.

“I don’t even think about other businesses in my industry,” said Alihagh, regarding her focus and drive when it comes to her spa and attracting and maintaining clients.” I don’t see what other businesses do, I just do what I know is the best for customers. I just do what I do from my heart.”

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A Vision of Wellness Company: Signature Day Spa Contact: John Crotti Address: 77 Parramatta Rd Camperdown, NSW 2050, Australia Email: John@signaturedayspa.com.au Web: www.signaturedayspa.com.au Phone: 02 9517 2525

A Vision of Wellness

Signature Day Spa & Wellness Centre was born from a vision by owner John Crotti. It began 22 years ago, with a conceptual thought of wellness while John was at the helm of a successful audio visual company in a fast-growing, high-tech industry, and is now an escape haven nestled on the Sydney city fringe and steeped in architectural history. John’s passion for wellness has never swayed, and since his ideas finally moved onto paper in 2008 before coming to fruition in 2014, he presides over one of the largest concept spas in Australia.

As John himself describes his enterprise, “we are an Urban Destination Spa located in Sydney. A unique one of a kind Day Spa in Australia unrivalled and unmatched in style, ambiance and treatments that are world class using different modalities not usually found in spas around Australia.

John’s spa has 20 treatment rooms, eight of which are themed couples’ rooms – these themes include Rainstorm Vichy Shower, Cleopatra, Geisha, Flotation, Hamam, Thermal Room, Brick Room, Crystal Room, all individually decorated to reflect a theme to which John has been exposed through his extensive travels.

“We also specialise in Hen parties and social groups,” John adds. “Here we have several areas where we can keep the group together enjoying and relaxing partaking in our various Spa Circuit experiences. We are licenced and offer cheese platters and food.”

In addition, corporate functions are welcome at Signature Day Spa; the board room provides the perfect environment for your team to brainstorm together. These are team building, promotional, sales incentive, reward based meetings, then the staff get rewarded via way of incentivise through the spa to motivate the most valuable asset with an array of reenergising yet relaxing treatments.

John’s vision was to create more than just a day spa by ensuring every client was awarded an experience and guided on a journey encouraging individual self-healing, a gathering of friends and colleagues to allow unprecedented sensations that truly enhanced wellbeing. John’s innovation and intuitive nature shines through in every detail as an extension of himself, and has been carefully created and executed from vision to reality, so from the moment a client enters the space, they experience the luxury, glamour and magic that John has strived to create in his concept spa.

As the founder, owner and General Manager of Signature Day Spa, John ensures the flow and tranquillity of the Spa is met on an operational level, whilst also juggling the marketing, finance, staffing and various other protocols within the Spa. He describes the lengthy process that took him from concept to eventual realisation.

“I have had this concept in my mind for 25 years,” he says. “My first treatment was in Bali 25 years ago, where I reluctantly went and had a treatment while on a sales conference. I came out in love.

“After that, I wanted to find a Day Spa in Sydney which was the equivalent to the one in Bali or similar, which I could not find. I proceeded to explore most of

Sydney with no success, before venturing further out to Melbourne, Brisbane and as far north as Queensland, and then overseas.” The Spa that John has created is a combination of experiences and treatments throughout the world, and based upon his newfound passion of the market and the time that he has sunk into it, he is proud to proclaim it as a truly unique entity.

“Staff is one of my biggest challenges in this business,” John readily admits. “As I have treatments and modalities in this spa that employees have never come across, I need to be careful to employ dedicated staff that will follow protocols that I have put in place for every treatment and every room, so that we are consistent and our clients walk out feeling loved and want to come back.

In addition, John recognises the role of changing technology upon the evolution of his business and its operations. “Technology, finances and staying on top of your game are also among the biggest challenges.

It makes you run leaner and meaner to achieve your business goals. Being hands-on I aspire to the highest standards I can offer and have all my likes in this space, including relaxation lounges, change rooms, beautiful ambiance and a variety that makes you want to come back.

“It is critical to know the changes and technology that are around; that doesn’t mean I dive straight into it, because it still needs to fit in with my offerings, and I need to be able to make educated decisions on whether to follow or allow more time prior to jumping in with these trends. Some trends only last a shot time like a flash in the pan, and these can be costly.”

In light of this, John supplements the daily business of his Spa by making his own locally-sourced products from scrubs, wraps and massage oil.

These differ in texture, scent and application, and he is always on the lookout for new ideas and what would work in the Spa, whilst keeping in touch with his suppliers and industry magazines to notice and respond to new industry trends.

At the end of the day, as John describes, “I believe it is self-discipline and a willingness to be successful it need to be in your thoughts and lifestyle. On top of that, determination, and the desire to be recognised as a leader in the field, are big influences on John, that drive him to embrace a business savvy, forwardthinking and trustworthy business manner.

“Signature Day Spa is two years old,” John concludes, “so we have a long way to go in fulfilling our objectives to be one of the most beautiful worldrenowned day spas in the world.”

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Lighting Up the Arizona Sky

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Best Desert Resort & Casino – Scottsdale Best Open-Air Spa 2016

Arizona is a state dominated by show-stopping icons that typify the Western USA – Monument Valley, the Grand Canyon and Cathedral Rock. It is also the home to some exquisite examples of American hospitality, and one of the forerunners in this category is the Talking Stick Resort. Located in the mountains at Talking Stick, 1.8 miles from Salt River Fields, and within six miles of Scottsdale’s bustling Fashion Square, this towering, family-friendly resort has all the makings of an immersive experience, and a compelling reason to name Arizona as one of the best holidaying states in the whole vast country.

The hotel takes its name from an aspect of American history that ties the establishment irrevocably to the past. To the indigenous peoples of North America, the talking stick was an instrument that played a central role to their democratic system as a cue to start speaking, a symbol of that person’s authority and their right to speak and be heard.

Perhaps the Talking Stick Resort lays claim to this name through its situation in an area once inhabited by the Papago people; perhaps its presence is a reminder to those that come to stay here of the responsibility for the land that has been inherited.

Or perhaps it is an intricate invocation of a romantic legacy that perpetuates the Arizona myth. This

A “ ll that remains is to sleep in comfort and pleasure, before the next day’s fulfilments.” is, after all, a land once dominated by tales of the ‘Old West’, of cowboys, gunfights and corrals. The Talking Stick Resort certainly does benefit from its proximity to the state capital of Phoenix, and in particular to the neighbourhood of Scottsdale. Not only does Scottsdale pride itself on being ‘the West’s most western town’ through celebrations of ‘cowboy’ culture like the Parada del Sol Parade, the world’s largest horse-drawn parade, and pilgrimage site of cowboys and cowgirls from across the nation, and the world-famous Arabian Horse Show, which has taken place here since 1955.

Company: Talking Stick Resort Name: Satara Williams Email: swilliams@riester.com Web: www.talkingstickresort.com Address: 9800 E Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale, AZ 85256, USA Phone: +1 480-850-7777

Lighting Up the Arizona Sky

In spite of this emphasis on its heritage, Scottsdale keeps one foot firmly in the present, in keeping with more modern flavours of tourism and culture: the city’s annual Arts Festival is one of the most prominent such events in the entire American calendar, and has in recent years been ranked as the number-one Arts Festival in the US by American Style Magazine. Indeed, there are a high concentration of galleries, studios and museums that are open to the public here, especially in Downtown Scottsdale.

This brief glimpse into the year-round attractions on store in Scottsdale casts reflection upon The Talking Stick Resort that it has much more to offer its clientele than a blast to the past. In fact, the resort is decidedly at odds with this character, and yet the name makes it hard to pass it up entirely.

Just about everything about the Talking Stick Resort feels thoroughly modern – whether it is the sprawling casino, the sensational pool, the expansive golf course, or the plush rooms, designed to elevate its guests to the height of luxury. From the 15th-floor, the hotel restaurant unveils the hard truth of the contrasts in this hotel – aptly enough, it is named Orange Sky. Arizona spreads out across the landscape, the green lawns of Scottsdale giving way to the mountains of the, with Mazatzal Peak as distinguished a landmark as the Resort itself.

Orange Sky itself is the signature fine dining restaurant at Talking Stick Resort, a clear standout choice against its five other food outlets. In large part, this is down to its monopoly over one of the best sunset views in Arizona, through floor-to-ceiling windows, though its award-winning wine list should also be considered. High-back seating enclaves on the west side of the dining room create privacy for small groups or the perfect romantic atmosphere.

Elsewhere in the hotel, Blue Coyote is another firm favourite for its adjoining cantina and more laid-back, family-friendly vibe. The eclectic mix of American cuisine and sushi makes this an upscale yet casual place to enjoy outdoor dining with views of the hotel’s multitude of pools.

Come nightfall, the hotel takes on a new character.

Those that make for the Casino are rewarded for their patronage through Player Rewards Club points and promotions, where prizes on offer range from cash to cars. Poker, table games and 700 slot machines abound – this is a hotel casino that is only rivalled by those on the Strip of Las Vegas.

Elsewhere in this palace, the Showroom hosts the best live entertainment in Scottsdale; the clubhouse Degree 270 features DJs, cocktails, and its own spectacular views of Arizona at night. For a more refined way to unwind, guests may also opt for the world-class cigar and martini lounge, or the panoramic views of the Orange Sky Lounge.

After all is said and done, the hotel rooms await.

Each and every one of the 496 soundproofed rooms provide free WiFi and wired Internet, a 42-inch flat-screen TV, and pillowtop beds. Conveniences include refrigerators and coffee makers, as well as small appreciative tokens like bathrobes and slippers.

All that remains is to sleep in comfort and pleasure, before the next day’s fulfilments.

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Real Estate

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Telford Homes – Parliament House

Telford Homes – Parliament House

The Triplex Penthouse at Parliament House by leading London developer, Telford Homes, is London’s newest luxury address, located just off of Albert Embankment SE1.

The Triplex Penthouse offers breath-taking 360 degree views across the capital and a new level of luxury living. From the moment you enter the front door and walk through the entrance hall on the bespoke Cheville Parquet flooring, the sumptuous and elegant surroundings embrace you. With floor to ceiling glazing, the views and natural light flood this truly exceptional apartment.

The Triplex Penthouse features designer kitchens

by Molteni & C. with integrated Gaggenau and Miele appliances, custom audio visual Crestron system controlling blinds, lighting, audio and visual, Molteni & C. wardrobes to all bedrooms, mood lighting and coffered ceilings to all rooms and opulent bathroom suites that are the epitome of penthouse living.

Occupying the top three floors, it crowns the development and features a substantial private terrace with outdoor barbeque and Riviera cedar wood hot tub. Access to each floor is via a bespoke helical wooden staircase designed and installed by TinTab. The staircase leads to a fully automated glass roof light that when opened provides access to the secondary roof terrace with 360 degree uninterrupted views along The River Thames towards The Houses of Parliament and The City and south towards Battersea.

All residents have access to Parliament Houses’ concierge service and private residents’ gymnasium.

Access to The Triplex Penthouse is restricted requiring fob access for added security and peace of mind.

David Campbell, Group Sales and Marketing Director at Telford Homes, comments, “located in one of the Capital’s most exclusive areas, The Triplex Apartment at Parliament House is a striking embodiment of luxury London living. Parliament House has been one of our most successful developments to date, and we are expecting high levels of interest from a global audience who will be attracted by the elite address, spectacular views and sublime interior finishes. The Triplex Penthouse will be sure to satisfy in all respects, epitomising the pinnacle of luxury combined with breath-taking panoramic vistas from this exclusive and unique London vantage point.”

Parliament House enjoys an enviable location set just off Albert Embankment, nearby Vauxhall and Waterloo stations provide fast, reliable connections.

For the busy international traveller global connections couldn’t be easier or more convenient with the London Heliport, London City Airport, London Heathrow airport and Waterloo station all easily accessible.

Designed and furnished by renowned interior specialists Honky, The Triplex Penthouse offers a unique opportunity for those looking for the ultimate entertaining spaces with views of the London skyline.

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WIN UP TO $15,000 IN CASH AND PRIZES Poker Afloat gives you the chance to win our big prize!!

Cruise inclusions for only $99.00 per person: • 4 hour cruise on a twin level luxury catamaran • Beer, wine & soft drinks served to tables throughout entire cruise • Finger food served to tables throughout entire cruise • Lingerie waitresses help in servicing your every need!

• Entry into TEXAS HOLD’EM poker tournament • 3000 start stack of playing chips in main event • Guaranteed $9,500 cash & prizes on every cruise • Guaranteed $3,500 cash prize for main event winner • Win minimum 3 x 8 days Balinese Holiday packages on every cruise • $50 re-buys & add-ons first 75mins only (optional and not included in ticket price) • Top Ten players guaranteed prizes (minimum value $250) • $25 secondary event (optional & not included in ticket price)

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Unmatched Arabian Hospitality The result of the vision of The Late His Highness Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, this palatial hotel is a modern and fully equipped complex dedicated to and originally built for the Officers of the Armed Forces of the United Armed Emirates. Started in December 1987, designed by the famous French architect Roger Taillibert, and finally finished in 1997, it has been heralded as an Architectural Marvel; nowadays, it is no longer exclusive to officers of the Armed Forces, but now also opens the doors for all cultures sharing its unique history, architecture & culture.

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Best Luxury Hotel 2016 - Abu Dhabi

Nestled within the modern landscape of the capital Abu Dhabi, this 5-star hotel is strategically located a stone’s throw away from Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Airport, Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Center, Zayed Sports City and a mere 15 minutes from downtown Abu Dhabi. Despite this, it remains a curiously hidden gem, differentiating itself as a unique property where worldwide travellers can experience pure Emirati culture and heritage.

Boasting 294 elegant rooms and opulent suites, embraced by a lofty garden and sea views, guests have the exquisite freedom to relax in bed with a steaming dish of fresh food, or an incredible dessert that fusions a multitude of exotic flavours, with room service available 24 hours. Each of the guestrooms is decorated with a classical blend of modern and traditional Arabic elements, and are all non-smoking and wheel-chair accessible.

The Deluxe single and twin rooms that oozes comfort, sets a cosy atmosphere for guests. The tastefully furnished room is designed to provide privacy comfort and relaxation for families. The exclusive Deluxe garden room offers direct access to the garden and the children’s playgrounds, which is a great location for the little ones to run and play without any inhibitions in a safe environment.

Miscellaneous comforts include free high speed wired or wireless internet access, a safety deposit box and LCD flat-screen IP television. Thoughtful touches and a dedicated team ensure that any guest’s stay is truly unforgettable.

Suites across the premise offer a unique design, having mastered the art of balancing luxury with style.

Guests that harbour a liking for the finer things in life will bear a fondness to the 65-square-meter large Executive Suite, and the 115-square-meter sized Presidential Suite. The living areas speak comfort and promise a memorable stay, be it a long-term or a short-term one. In addition, with a sophisticated lounge, fully equipped kitchen, glamorous Jacuzzi complemented by spacious bathrooms, and a private balcony that overlooks the beautiful club garden, those staying here The indoor garden is a further source of intense pride for AFOC&H; this mini-oasis is recognized as one of the world’s largest horticultural assemblies, with an astounding 142 species of flora on display.

The West Wing Lounge, located in the hotel lobby, benefits enormously from the tranquillity of the indoor garden, tempting guests with delightful Arabic coffee and dates, a variety of hot and cold beverages, fresh juices, light snacks, and delicate pastries.

There is also plenty to whet guests’ appetite, and tempt their taste buds with cuisine suited for everything from business trips, to casual lunches and family brunches, to romantic candlelight dinners, at a selection of top restaurants and lounges. Amongst these is Al Bathna, named after one of the most famous forts on the UAE’s eastern coast. This buffet restaurant offers a lavish international buffet featuring a rich selection of European, Asian, Arabian and Khaleeji specialties. Kennedy Restaurant, meanwhile, offers an unforgettably fine dining experience with European cuisine that is more familiar to some but nonetheless superb, set against locally inspired art,

Unmatched Arabian Hospitality

gracious surroundings, warm hospitality, exceptional service, and a generous list of handpicked wines.

Beyond the tempting comfort of the rooms and the impressive arrays on display in the restaurants, The Armed Forces Officers Club and Hotel boasts an exciting array of indoor and outdoor recreation and sports facilities. Amongst these leisure facilities are a number of specially dedicated gymnasiums for both men and women; added to this are a number of specialist units, including a function hall, a cardio gym, a martial arts stadium, an indoor Olympic-sized pool, a steam bath and Jacuzzi, squash and tennis courts, a bowling centre, a Children’s Village and kids’ pool, an aroma therapy massage centre for men and women, and the breath-taking Caracal Shooting Club.

As an added bonus to the hotel’s already numerous outdoor facilities, there is something for those looking for a bit more adrenaline from their stay, in the form of an Air Dome with soft flooring and a paintball arena.

In addition, there is a number of various football courts; 4 with artificial grass, 2 with natural grass, and 2 built for cage football, sporting artificial grass.

Alongside these pitches for the casual player, the hotel also offers a Track & Field Course FIFA-certified natural football field, making the hotel an ideal pitstop for teams on tour to use as a training camp.

Back inside the hotel, representatives of businesses from across the world find their way to the Officer’s Club Hotel, to make full usage of the 28 meeting rooms and banquet spaces. All of these facilities have varying capacities, can accommodate numerous seating arrangements, and are equipped with the latest audio-visual equipment and high-speed Wi-Fi, all the better to make any business function tailormade for the clients’ needs.

The hotel Emirati’s heritage and experience in large functions over its long history lends itself ably to hosting functions across the spacious facility.

In addition to three spacious halls, the hotel still finds ample room under the spectacular golden roofs, among its plethora of distractions and accoutrements, to house a cinema with a capacity of 160, as well as the 650-seat Al Jaheli Theatre; both offer ideal settings for larger social gatherings as well as conferences. Out among the club garden, meanwhile, the open expanses of grass can seat up to 10,000 guests in regimented order for sumptuous banquets.

Company: Armed Forces Officer Club & Hotel Name: Dulce Ortega, Director of Sales & Marketing Email: sales@afoc.mil.ae Web: www.afoc.mil.ae Address: Khor Al Maqta. Abu Dhabi, opposite to Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Phone: 00971 2 4415900

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Burley Manor: The New Forest’s Pastoral Paradise

Burley Manor:

The New Forest’s Pastoral Paradise Burley Manor offers a peaceful atmosphere, exquisite food and a range of spa treatments, ensuring that guests leave feeling rejuvenated in both mind and body.

Set in the idyllic, natural surroundings of the New Forest, Burley Manor offers a truly unique and relaxing experience.

With a homely, cosy atmosphere which is embodied by both the exceptional service provided by the attentive and supportive staff, who cannot do enough to ensure that guests have a pleasant stay, as well as the décor, with a colour palette inspired by nature, eclectic artwork and stunning patterned fabrics, Burley Manor offers a tranquil and peaceful retreat for those looking to enjoy a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

“ We advocate the slow food movement, but don’t worry this doesn’t mean your food is slow to cook. We just spend longer finding the most special produce from as close a radius as possible – that’s the only slow bit.”

The current building was built by Colonel William Clement Drake Esdaile, who became its owner in 1852 and demolished the original building. The colonel was a magistrate and Verderer – custodian – of the New Forest. By 1935, the manor had become a hotel and it has served guests ever since, apart from a short spell as a military HQ when it was requisitioned by Lord Montgomery during the war.

This history is embodied in the decoration, which features antique furniture and traditional patterns.

The vision was to capture the historic essence of the building yet bring a relaxed approach to its food and atmosphere to create something unique. The result is a restaurant and rooms with elegance, warmth and simple style, set in eight acres of stunning grounds, alongside Burley Park – a red deer sanctuary.

All rooms contain sumptuous Hypnos beds for the perfect night’s sleep, with many other rooms

including additional amenities including power shower and bath, sumptuous bedding, a generous supply of tea, coffee and biscuits, complimentary WiFi, Temple spa amenities, the use of a DAB Radio, as well as fluffy bathrobes and slippers to keep guests cosy following the use of the luxurious bathrooms.

As well as the main establishment, which houses the guest rooms, the hotel is also home to The Barn, a stunning venue which can host spectacular weddings, exceptional events and unusual corporate events. This superbly converted barn is rather simple, yet quirky, with an inspiring rustic and country feel, ensuring a memorable and unique experience. The Barn also hosts innovative events, such as meals and musical performances which are open to guests and outside visitors alike, offering the perfect rustic interlude to a relaxing stay.

For those looking to truly relax and unwind during their stay, the hotel is home to the Temple Spa, which offers a range of luxury treatments designed to support the health and wellbeing of guests.

Possessing unrivalled passion, love and expertise for the Mediterranean lifestyle, Temple Spa found inspiration for their products, philosophy, ingredients and treatments. Revitalising massages, facials and spa experiences are all on offer, with the spa providing a selection of packages designed to meet specific needs. This well-crafted selection of luxurious and indulgent treatments has been carefully selected to leave visitors feeling refreshed long after they leave the serenity of the spa’s treatment rooms.

It is the Mediterranean lifestyle, with its focus on rejuvenation and nature and their links to longevity and happiness, that are the inspiration behind the spa and its treatment range. The same can be said of the manors restaurant, which offers a selection of delicious dishes inspired by the Mediterranean.

The establishment’s experienced chefs take superb seasonal ingredients from the New Forest and across the British Isles and beyond, then craft them into vibrant, rustic dishes with the bold flavours and delicate tastes of the Mediterranean. The traditional

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Burley Manor: The New Forest’s Pastoral Paradise

wood-fired kitchen allows for real rustic flavours which are perfectly complimented by the fresh, local produce they pride theirselves on providing.

In keeping with this Mediterranean theme the kitchen offers a succulent selection of Tapas dishes, including decedent garlic oyster mushrooms, lamb kibbeh and cumin houmous, dukkah served with pine nuts and flatbread. Starters include the rich and gamey pan roasted quail with artichoke and the flavourful panfried squid, rocket and chilli. For those who cannot decide, a selection of sharing platters including dry-cured Hampshire antipasti, wood-roasted chateaubriand of beef and Cypriot-style chicken will ensure that there is something for everyone.

Main meals at Burley Manor are equally crowd pleasing, with a selection of vegetarian offerings including pearl barley and parsley risotto with a crispy vegetable fritter and a fresh tasting tomato and tapenade tartlet. For meat lovers there are also a selection of delicious and skilfully prepared dishes, which include roast duck served alongside heritage vegetables and the decadent wood-roasted rump of lamb accompanied by goat’s cheese gnocchi and flavourful autumn greens.

Much of the produce is acquired locally, and the focus is on choosing the fresh, seasonal produce which is of the highest possible quality, as the restaurant is eager to emphasise.

“We advocate the slow food movement, but don’t worry this doesn’t mean your food is slow to cook. We just spend longer finding the most special produce from as close a radius as possible – that’s the only slow bit. The beauty of running a kitchen in the New Forest is the ability to source produce from forest to coast. With the origin and quality of product being most important; the unrivalled choice of local suppliers we have is unique. We are able to bring out the best of these ingredients by cooking traditionally in our wood-fired oven, but the proof of the pudding is in the eating – enjoy!”

Wines are provided by the glass, bottle or a third of a bottle carafe which holds 250ml, allowing diners the unique opportunity to sample a selection from an ever evolving wine selection of 25 whites and reds designed to complement the menu and stimulate the palate.

This innovative concept makes it easier to explore the wine list with the help of the establishment’s Sommelier and a chance to sample something new.

Special occasion meals can be provided, including Sunday Lunch and the Butler’s Pantry, which offers a range of seven traditional cooking styles from across the Mediterranean, including French, Spanish, Moroccan and Turkish.

For guests looking for a relaxing and natural escape where they can indulge in the very best food and drink, as well as treatments designed to rejuvenate and revitalise the mind and body, they need look no further than Burley Manor, where rustic tradition meets modern convenience to form a truly unforgettable experience.

To find out more please visit their website, www.burleymanor.com or call 01425 403522 to make a reservation.

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Sparkling Experiences at the Heart of the Alps

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Exclusivity and privacy are the defining characteristics of the Carlton Hotel St. Moritz, which opens for the upcoming winter season from 16 December 2016 to 26 March 2017.

The luxury five-star establishment beguiles the senses with its extravagant world of colours, its culinary creations of the highest standard and its unrivalled generosity. With 60 suites designed by Swiss interior designer Carlo Rampazzi, using the finest materials, even a single night spent in the Carlton offers the highest levels of comfort. Guests from all over the world enjoy unforgettable experiences in the middle of the winter wonderland of St. Moritz. The Carlton Hotel has recently been awarded with a World Travel Award as Switzerland´s Leading Hotel 2016.

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Most Luxurious Lakeview Hotel 2016 - St. Moritz

Myriad details convey the sense that the Carlton Hotel, built in 1913, is shaped by its landmark historic character. The complete refurbishment undertaken in 2007 not only preserved the exterior of the hotel, but also brought the historical values to the fore, adding a modern, contemporary re-interpretation that combines the new with the traditional. The stately stairway, decorative stucco work along the ceilings of the ballroom and historical stone walls in various places throughout the building are a constant reminder of the glory days of the early 20th century.

For the interiors, designer Carlo Rampazzi has combined antique furniture with vibrant modern colour schemes, which gives the hotel its distinctive unconventional character. Many existing pieces of furniture were restored and re-upholstered with new fabrics and paintwork. The mix of materials such as glass, wood and fabric blends harmoniously to create an overall impression that constantly surprises as a result of the Ticino designer’s meticulous attention to detail.

“We strive to offer our guests a truly unique and wonderful experience – an escape from everydays life and a change of scenery with the very highest quality of service,” points out the General Manager of the Hotel, Dominic Bachofen. “Our emphasis is always placed on providing a personal and individual service – every effort will be made to meet even unusual or more outlandish requests.”

Turning attention to the accommodation on offer, the exceptional diversity of colours are guests’ first introductions to the highest standard of comfort and state-of-the-art technology. All of the suites and junior suites are south-facing with views of Lake St. Moritz, and most of them have balconies or terraces that offer heavenly vantage points for many local top events, such as the world-famous “White Turf” horseraces and the Snow Polo World Cup.

Company: Carlton Hotel St. Moritz Email: info@carlton-stmoritz.ch Web: www.carlton-stmoritz.ch/en Address: Via Johannes Badrutt 11, CH – 7500 St. Moritz Phone: +41 (0)81 836 70 00

Also, to keep guests in touch with the outside world, each of the 60 suites is equipped with free highspeed internet, radio and TV – the Carlton’s very own TV channel provides information and news about the hotel, the St. Moritz local, and all events that take place in the Upper Engadine. To ensure the high standards of the Carlton Hotel, a new, even better and faster internet is going to be installed before the winter season starts. The online booking engine also matches the latest standards and makes the booking easy but safe at the same time.

To experience the authentic St. Moritz feeling, though, outdoor butler Urs, who grew up in the beautiful Upper Engadine and knows all of its hidden gems off the beaten track, is from this season on available to show guests around and answer all their niggling questions.

Culinary excellence is celebrated in the hotel’s restaurants Romanoff and Da Vittorio – St. Moritz.

The former, offers authentic fine Swiss cuisine in elegant surroundings on the historic Bel Etage, courtesy of Executive Chef Gero Porstein. At the restaurant Da Vittorio – St. Moritz, meanwhile, the three-star Michelin chefs Enrico and Roberto Cerea serve authentic Italian cuisine at its best in a casual

Sparkling Experiences at the Heart of the Alps

atmosphere, which takes diners on a culinary journey to Lombardy.

The Carlton Bar and Lobby, with its large sun terrace, is the perfect spot to relax and unwind – whether a lunch with delicious specialities from the grill, an Engadine afternoon tea or a glass of sparkling champagne.

The Carlton Spa offers countless opportunities to withdraw, relax and unwind, all at the leisure of the guests. Extending over 1,200 square metres on three daylight flooded floors and featuring six different treatment rooms, guests can enjoy a multitude of massages and beauty treatments whilst marvelling at the striking ceiling paintings. A 35-sqm Spa Suite – outfitted with its own whirlpool, sauna and rainsky shower – offers a wellness experience in complete privacy for several hours or even an entire day.

Located on the lowermost floor is the spacious sauna area with steam bath, caldarium, Finnish sauna and a separate ladies’ sauna area. To cool off after an invigorating sauna session, there is a whole range of different hydro-massage showers, an ice fountain and a Kneipp trail in the snow.

Besides the very latest in fitness equipment, the hotel also boasts a large swimming and sports pool, which was designed to boost physical fitness. The pool’s highlight feature is an interconnecting indoor and outdoor relaxation pool, which makes the perfect place to unwind in soothing temperatures.

To top this all off, the hotel´s guests can choose from some very special experiences over this upcoming winter season, which will make their vacation even more memorable and unforgettable. A private tour of the Segantini Museum, a snow-kiting course, a day on the slopes with a gold medallist and world champion or VIP tickets for top events in St. Moritz are only a few examples of what is in store.

The highlight, however, comes in the form of the FIS Alpine World Ski Championships 2017, which will take place in St. Moritz for the fifth time, from 6th to 19th February 2017. Guests of the Carlton Hotel St. Moritz can experience with their VIP-ticket the thrill of the races first-hand from the best vantage point in the area, and witness the live action as ski fans from all over the world gather together in this one place.

Individuality, flexibility and spontaneity have certainly become more important over the last few years.

During their holidays, guests want to be flexible and want to get the opportunity to decide from day to day rather than stick to one fixed program.

Dominic Bachofen and his team are well prepared to fulfil the guests´ expanding needs and offer the availability of all of these special experiences, as well as plush amenities and splendid food, to make the stay at the Carlton Hotel St. Moritz for every single guest unforgettable.

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Jewel of the English South

Jewel of the English South

Nestled away on the fringe of the New Forest, Chewton Glen is an idyllic retreat with a sparkling history. Beginning life as a private residence, its refurbishment in 2007 turned it into a well-positioned country abode on the edge of the New Forest National Park, and has been open to guests ever since. Situated on this undisturbed tract of unenclosed pasture, this is a quintessentially English, privately owned luxury Country House Hotel & Spa, and is one of only a few such establishments that can call themselves a true English Original.

The land and premises on which the hotel sits makes repeat appearances on land registry records across English history. At the height of the Norman rule in England, the 12th-Century estate was known as ‘Cheventone’, ‘Chyveton’ or ‘Chewghton’, according to various records. In 1732, it came to be known collectively as Chewton Glen House. Captain Frederick Marryat, the British Royal Navy Officer and novelist, who himself was an acquaintance of Charles Dickens, as well as the inventor of the Marryat’s Code maritime signalling system, stayed here in the 1840s on numerous occasions, gathering sustenance and inspiration from his surroundings for his now-famous novel, ‘The Children of the New Forest’. The hotel, then, is the inheritor of 900 years of history, where it has emerged as a prominent location that has made its mark upon English culture.

“ With over 130 acres of woodland, gardens and parkland the Chewton Glen estate now extends to the edge of the New Forest National Park and down to the Solent coastline; the Chewton Glen Hotel sits in a truly enviable spot.”

Clearly, Marryat saw the same picturesque charm in Chewton Glen as do its modern guests. With over 130 acres of woodland, gardens and parkland the Chewton Glen estate now extends to the edge of the New Forest National Park and down to the Solent coastline; the Chewton Glen Hotel sits in a truly enviable spot. The changing ownership of the property between 1947 and 2007, during which time it became a hotel under the Duval family, speaks volumes as to the sheer attractiveness of this patch of English countryside. And yet, despite its frequent documentation, it has remained as ever a quiet space from which to watch the world go by, whilst partaking in such quaint activities as horse riding, fishing, nine- and 18-hole golf, polo, croquet, and clay pigeon shooting.

This is not to say that Chewton Glen is stuck in its historical setting. Rather, it takes full advantage of modern guests’ appreciation for adrenaline-filled holidaying as well, which is why the nearby beach brings the prospects of water skiing, sailing and a

high-speed boat trip to the Needles and Cowes on the hotel’s small fleet of motor yachts.

From the exterior, there is little to separate the core building from its Georgian origins, save for a few modern touches. Proud trees dot the gardens, from whose branches hang suspended chairs for an afternoon’s reading. The brick wall around the outside of the lawn maintains the dignity of the property by reinforcing its separation from the rest of the world. Of the main building itself, the bright red brickwork is contrasted by bold blue paint beneath the accentuated arches of the roof, betraying its decadent structure for a softer, more inviting tone.

This strikes true upon entering the hotel – passing under an archway of intertwining vines and flowers is the guests’ first introduction to a secret garden.

The reception is festooned with reminders of all the lush amenities of an English country manor, from the armchairs to the gilded mirrors hanging from the walls. There is a warmness here that is immediately arresting, and which may catch guests off-guard with its gentle quirkiness.

In spite of the historical legacy inherited by Chewton Glen Hotel, there is no overwhelming sense of being trapped in something akin to a museum. Instead, subtle indications of a more modern, art-inspired flavour tone down the imposing architecture. Small trees stand in tough wicker baskets around the breakfast patio, while desk lamps are carved to resemble a pair of birds perched on a sapling.

Classic rooms offer a continuation of this effective blend of classical and modern décor, culminating in a king-sized bed and a private balcony, with views overlooking the parkland beyond. Others, such as the Croquet Lawn rooms, are drenched in style and class, with a comfortable sitting area outfitted with armchairs, a sofa and a coffee table, and views of the hotel gardens from either a balcony or a private terrace. Elsewhere, in the Coach House, flat weave rugs in the seating areas match the walls in soft putty shades that create a fresh backdrop for the four new unique colour schemes selected for these fabulous suites. The flexible sleeping options on offer here underpin the hotel’s unobtrusive manner – Howard-style armchairs and sofas transform into additional beds as required, an amenity not shared by the other, more exclusive rooms elsewhere in the hotel.

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lux As a touching homage to the patronage of Captain Marryat, many of the hotel’s rooms bear the names of characters from ‘The Children of the New Forest’, as well as his other novels and characters. The author himself is honoured in the hotel through the hotel’s pinnacle Marryat Suite, which, simply put, provides the ultimate in gracious living. It accomplishes this with ease, through sweeping views of the grounds and parkland, a separate sitting room with two sofas, coffee table, armchairs, work table and chairs, and an additional cloakroom located off the main lounge. Two extra beds are also available, bringing the maximum capacity of this deluxe space up to four persons. Finally, with the largest private balcony terrace in the hotel – at 92 square metres by almost a thousand square feet – this room is ideally suited to private dining and cocktail receptions.

The hotel, though, refuses to remain in one form for too long – it continues to grow, the roots of its history and deep connections to the New Forest introducing new opportunities to make the customer experience more personal, more memorable, more luxurious than ever before. This becomes best exemplified through the creation of Chewton Glen’s 12 new treehouse suites – set a comfortable distance apart from the main hotel, and with complimentary shuttle service between the two, these rooftop retreats afford an opportunity for guests like no other. Taking full advantage of the copse of trees to make this a reality for the hotel, these individually-designed spaces await clients that want to experience the solitary hotel experience from 35 feet above ground, and gain a more intimate exposure to the New Forest.

“ The unsurpassed heritage of effortlessly gracious English hospitality, and the balance between heritage and evolution, is what makes Chewton Glen truly deserving of its five-red star status.”

While the simpler Treehouse Loft Suite itself is an enchanting space with a king-sized bed, wood stove, and separate lounge area complete with mood lighting, the Treehouse Hideaway Suite expands yet further upon this: while the main body of the treehouse is devoted to the kitchen, dining and sitting areas, complete with underfloor heating, the bedroom exists as a separate pod, connected by a covered walkway; this ultra-private space is marked out for its exclusivity through soft deep-pile carpets, a spacious, marble-floored en-suite bathroom with a large freestanding bathtub and bespoke walk-in shower, and epic views of the forest beyond.

Company: Relais & Chateaux Web: www.chewtonglen.com Address: Christchurch Rd, New Milton, BH25 6QS Telephone: +33176493939

Nonetheless, there are definite unifying factors that elevate these suites into a realm of their own. From the deep-pile carpets of the treetop living rooms to the claw-foot tubs, there are new and luxurious features on all sides. A hamper magically appears every morning - delivered through a secret hatch - for breakfast on the terrace. In keeping with the true tradition of an English country house hotel experience, guests are afforded glorious hospitality typified by a game of croquet on the lawn and a cream tea. On top of this, with private outdoor hot

Jewel of the English South

tubs on the terraces offering the perfect place for guests to sink back and stargaze, and with electronic features such as Sky TV and complimentary WiFi throughout, any guest choosing to stay here might never want to set foot on the ground until checkout.

In spite of the more rustic surroundings, the treehouses are designed to provide comfortable reminders of modernity, which creates a dramatic contrast to the more classically-inspired but no less lovingly crafted rooms in the main hotel, especially the gorgeous Marryat Suite. For the discerning client with no real reason to worry over budget, it could be a serious toss-up between the two equally inviting styles of accommodation.

Continuing this blend of modernity and historical charm, the hotel spa represents everything unique about Chewton Glen, and the way in which it continues to uphold the very highest values of English hospitality. As Kerry, the Spa Director, describes, “the luxury health spa at Chewton Glen embodies the unique purity of a New Forest and coastal location.

Relax in the ozone treated indoor swimming pool or in the renowned hydrotherapy pool with 12 hi-tech massage stations. The staff at our spa hotel in Hampshire are dedicated to personalised service, holistic lifestyle programmes and indulgent spa experiences all delivered in the environment of a world-class retreat.”

All of this goes without mentioning the food on offer at Chewton Glen. Come evening, guests descend upon the spacious, air-conditioned restaurant – or, weatherpermitting, the terrace and garden. Waited on by a team of handpicked professionals including a sommelier, guests may enjoy locally-sourced dishes with a generous helping of originality, from the spatchcock poussin to the New Forest venison, slow-cooked lamb tagine, and Dorset crab with apple and celeriac.

Hotel Chef Luke Matthews comments on his inspirations when creating the sumptuous cuisine.

“There are many factors that influence the dishes and menus I put together, one of the main being the hotels unique location. Being so well situated in between the New Forest National Park and the Jurassic South Coast of England means that I am able to source an abundance of ingredients from right on our doorstep: great shellfish, cheese, dairy products and free range eggs… not to mention the ingredients that we are able to forage from the hotels grounds, such as honey from our bee hives and berries to make jam.

“The second influence is a personal one, my passion for travel. I like to bring elements from different cultures and entwine these with our local ingredients.

I aim to provide a menu and experience that reflects the hotels location but with a subtle undertone of international flavours and spices, as well as creating a flexible dining experience ultimately offering something for every pallet.”

The unsurpassed heritage of effortlessly gracious English hospitality, and the balance between heritage and evolution, is what makes Chewton Glen truly deserving of its five-red star status. With romantic English woodland on one side and the beach on the other, with caressing care in the spa, and with abound in its plentiful gardens and Hampshire country house hotel and spa that constantly surprises...

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The Craigellachie Hotel

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The Craigellachie Hotel

The Craigellachie Hotel stands at the very heart of Speyside and its whisky trail, boasting a fantastic location between the Fiddich and Spey rivers.

LUX Accommodation of the Year 2016 - Banffshire

The Craigellachie Hotel feels like a countryside family home, with 26 rooms containing Johnston’s of Elgin cashmere topped mattresses, Egyptian cotton sheets and classically designed bathrooms. Five of the rooms have access to the garden, with dog beds available on request for the four legged guests of the hotel.

You are invited to delve into the Quaich Bar, which was founded in 1983 and is the world’s leading whisky bar. It houses over 900 single-malt whiskies from across the globe, with the Quaich bar’s collection having been handpicked by renowned whisky and spirits writer, Dave Broom, noted author of The World Atlas of Whisky and Whisky: The Manual. The bar is not only significant in size, but is also interesting in terms of profile; it has sought out the most unique and rare whiskies, some of which are exclusive to the Craigellachie, and all of which can be sampled by the glass.

Quaich, which is pronounced as ‘quake’, is a traditional, shallow and two-handled Scottish cup renowned for the drinking of whisky. The word means ‘cup of friendship’, and is derived from the Gaelic word ‘cuach’, meaning cup – it is traditionally used to toast special occasions such as arrivals, departures and weddings, and can be offered as a special gift. In 1589, King James VI of Scotland gave Anne of Denmark a Quaich as a wedding gift. Inside

“ The Craigellachie invite you to make yourself at home at their establishment, and welcomes guests to sample everything they have to offer.” the exquisite bar at the Craigellachie, this historical significance is evoked through the décor on display in this luxurious space, almost fit for royalty. The furniture, for a start, has all been handcrafted by British company Soane. The bar itself is lined with a silver band, designed by the iconic jeweller Stephen Webster, and produced by Hamilton & Inches, Silversmith’s to Her Majesty the Queen.

Company: The Craigellachie Hotel Address: Victoria Street, Craigellachie, Speyside, AB38 9SR Email: reservations@craigellachiehotel.co.uk Web: www.craigellachiehotel.co.uk Phone: +44 (0) 1340 881 204

The bartenders at the Quaich, Kieran Walsh and Lyndsey Gray, are recognized experts in the world of whisky. They are as happy to educate whisky novices as they are to guide experienced connoisseurs through a tasting. They create fantastic whisky cocktails in the hotel, ranging from Sours and Manhattans to a proper Old Fashioned. Whilst the Quaich is the authority on single malt whiskies, they recognise that taste is subjective. The bartenders will help any client drink whisky in the way that suits their individual palate, whether it be alone, with water, with ice, or in a classic cocktail. A traditional Scottish punch, taken from 18th and 19th century recipes, is

served every evening in the Quaich from 6-7.30pm.

The Quaich can hold private whisky tasting events, and can even organise tastings on site at the distilleries, if this is what their guests request.

For those who prefer a more rustic drinking experience, the Craigellachie Hotel offers the Copper Dog; for those who simply love a great pub. The little pub is always a hub for people, both locals and travellers from far and wide. At the Copper Dog, you’ll find a selection of beers from local craft breweries, alongside long-held favourite ales and a large cocktail list, full of delicious whisky cocktails. They boast a handpicked wine list, and bottles of their favoured bottle, Sancerre, comes straight from their friends Domaine Philippe and Lynne Raimbault in the Loire Valley, France.

The food menu is strictly farm to fork; they serve fresh, honest, local Speyside produce, sourced from within a 50-mile radius. The Craigellachie Hotel believe that Speyside is the secret food basket of Europe, and the wide range of foods, from wild Scottish berries, to Aberdeen Angus beef and Isle of Mull scallops or Shetland mussels, offer a wealth of beautiful produce to sample.

The Copper Dog enjoys a crackling wood fire in the winter, and a large sun-terrace for outdoor drinking and dining during the summer months. They have corner and booth tables to cater for any guest preference, as well as the Grill Room; a backroom that can be booked for private dinner or drinks parties of up to 30. They also have a private dining room, which is suitable for parties of up to 22; the Quaich bar sits adjacently to this room, and is accessible through double doors, enabling the hire of both rooms simultaneously. Large parties of up to 55 can also be accommodated for in the blue dining room across the hall, which showcases how capable the Craigellachie Hotel are at providing spaces for a wide array of events.

Chefs at the Craigellachie will work with you to deliver a traditional Highland supper, or a bespoke menu of your choosing to suit any occasion. This includes the delivery of weddings; tailoring your special day with the in-house wedding planner at the Craigellachie could not be easier, as they endeavour to ensure thorough planning from the day of enquiry to the day of the wedding. They even organise extra accommodation nearby, if the 26 sumptuous rooms that they have on offer cannot cater for all of your guests.

The Craigellachie invite you to make yourself at home at their establishment, and welcomes guests to sample everything they have to offer.

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LUX Hotel & Spa Awards 2016 - Germany

Wald & Schlosshotel Friedrichsruhe

Wald & Schlosshotel Friedrichsruhe The 5- Star Superior hotel Wald & Schlosshotel Friedrichsruhe has been playing host to guests since the 18th Century, and still retains a lot of the magnificence and elegance of these bygone days. Today, this hunting lodge has been transformed into a stunning hotel set in a magnificent park containing centuries-old trees; with a gourmet restaurant, a delightful breakfast area in the conservatory, a stunning spa with its own bistro, and a traditional rustic restaurant, guests are positively spoiled for choice when it comes to experiencing unadulterated luxury, worthy of a princely German family.

Nestled in a 4.4-hectare park includes the property 66 exclusive rooms and suites spread over four extraordinary buildings, this private space of southern German countryside first came into being as a large zoo and hunting lodge for a noble family whose input changed this landscape and made it cohesive to a modern lifestyle of luxury and vacationing.

A “ t the modern institution of the Wald & Schlosshotel Friedrichsruhe, guests have the opportunity to relive the heyday of the Hohenlohe family by partaking in the luxury of their palatial seat of power.”

The Thirty Years War that split Europe between Catholics and Protestants in the early 17th Century left a mark on this countryside, uncovering a certain strategic element to its location. Indeed, a century later, by 1720, Prince Friedrich II of Hohenlohe built the original hunting lodge that came to be known as Friedrichsruhe, and in the years that followed, much of the old Tiergarten forest was cleared to allow the settlement of farmers. The Hohenlohe princely dynasty, who were themselves members of the German High Nobility with a direct tie to the line of the Holy Roman Emperors, have left a lasting legacy upon this historic region, and while they may have lost their independence in the forming of the Confederation of the Rhine during Napoleon Buonaparte’s conquests, the complex of Friedrichsruhe remains a solid remainder of those bygone times.

At the modern institution of the Wald & Schlosshotel Friedrichsruhe, guests have the opportunity to relive

the heyday of the Hohenlohe family by partaking in the luxury of their palatial seat of power. Guests may choose to explore the Torhaus (gatehouse), Jagdschloss (hunting lodge), Haupthaus (main building), Spa Haus (spa building) or Gartenhaus (garden house), each of which is furnished in a different style. Many of these buildings exist on the site of or are built from the original structures that have stood here since the 1700s, when this property was used as the Hohenlohe family’s summer hunting lodge.

Every habitable space in this hotel is unique. Noble colours and classical patterns adorn the walls, curtains, and chairs; precious paintings, gorgeous pieces of antique furniture, and soft carpets are everywhere. In spite of the grandiose furnishings, though, nothing about the interiors at Wald & Schlosshotel Friedrichsruhe feels overdone or ostentatious. They simply provide the most beautiful, comfortable surroundings possible in which to lay one’s head, enjoy a delicious meal, or simply sit back and barely move a muscle, without it feeling overly claustrophobic in the face of such grandeur.

The rooms and suites at Wald & Schlosshotel Friedrichsruhe are elegantly furnished to reflect the historic building with antique furniture and period paintings. The main rooms in the Haupthaus are decorated in the style of a country manor, the ones in the spa building shine on the principle of minimalist and modern colours and shapes, while the rooms and suites in the Gate and Garden house are seeping with Romantic English concepts, taking a 19thCentury rural feel that is both wonderfully in keeping with the historic setting but also rather modern – the overall effect would not be out of place in a Laura Ashley collection. In the heart of the park sits the Jagdschloss – this hunting lodge is outfitted with rooms festooned with oil paintings, antique period furniture, and rich fabrics.

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lux The spa in Friedrichsruhe is another well-deserved source of pride for the staff; their philosophy incorporates a deep understanding and respect for natural remedies, which they consider to be the source of energy and the provider of deep, self-healing power. Natural products – touching – movement, nutrition, attentiveness – are essential to the process here; the principal of ‘learning from nature’ is upheld as a chief virtue, and is applied through the usage of expressive woods, fine fabrics and striking stones to demonstrate an avant-garde knowledge of effective spa treatment.

Guests are invited to find strength in this blissful space – a small, perfect world designed for healing, which only evolves around the guest, giving them a balance from the outside as well as from the inside.

Guests are surrounded by nature and people to spoil and pamper them, and invigorate an inspiration to lead a healthy life.

The Schlosshotel Friedrichsruhe has indeed attained some formidable recognition, in particular through its enchanting spa experience: to wit, with the Relax Guide awarding four Lilies and 20 points for the seventh year in a row, there is a strong basis on which to name this historic establishment as the best wellness hotel in all of Germany, which is by itself no small feat for a nation so steeped in hospitality and an almost overpowering inclination towards finery and wanderlust.

“ In Friedrichsruhe, innovation meets tradition. In our spacious resort, we are lucky that we are able to offer both.”

After indulging in some well-deserved time in the spa, it is high time to dine in splendour on unbelievable dishes. Never settling when it comes to catering to the desires of guests, the hotel offers four distinct options in which to experience true culinary excellence – these range from quaint rustic, slightly over-vital Styrian jaunts to elegant in starlit surroundings. The regional restaurant Jägerstube, the gorgeously-appointed Spa Bistro and the rustic Forest Tavern are each as exclusive, as the next, serving fresh food that never falls short of delicious.

Company: Panorama Hotel & Service GmbH Email: hotel@schlosshotel-friedrichsruhe.de Web: www.schlosshotel-friedrichsruhe.de/ Address: Kärcherstrasse 11, 74639 Zweiflingen Phone: +49 (0) 79 41/60 87-0

In particular, Styrian pumpkins and Hohenlohe beef form the basis of the Jägerstube’s sumptuous soups, with locally-hunted venison and pumpernickel dumplings soon to follow. Of course, local favourites are available in the form of wiener schnitzels, as well as the traditional swabian dish Zwiebelrostbraten; the closest translated name to this term equates to ‘onion-topped roast beef with gravy’, but the dish itself possesses the potential for so much more. In the hands of a true master – such as that can be found in the kitchens of the Friedrichsruhe – our head chef Boris Rommel - for all our four restaurants: “Of course our restaurants offers a healthy cuisine but also the traditional old recipes from grandma wich are well known in swabian.

Schlosshotel Friedrichsruhe

The Gourmet-Restaurant, meanwhile, is where stylish cuisine finds its home, with dishes taking inspiration from both regional and French influences. This restaurant, with its wide terrace and array of industryrecognised awards (one Michelin star, 16 Gault Millau points, and four diamonds in Varta Guide) is an unmissable spot for food lovers everywhere.

On top of this, the Chef’s Table room offers a private and intimate atmosphere with a view into the kitchen, where guests’ individual menus are prepared.

Separated by a seemingly thin pane of glass, the views into the kitchen yield tell-tale glimpses of the nimble hands and subtle tricks employed by the chef and his professional team. Groups of between six and ten persons with a special need to celebrate in a private and splendidly-outfitted place are recommended to the Chef Table.

The exciting combination between tradition and modernity is the die-hard focus of the hotel, as well as the products, all of which are of the very best quality, and preferably sourced from the local region, of course. Through this variety of culinary delights, the choice is entirely in the hands of the paying guest.

Beyond the bastions of the hotel’s walls, where the hotel grounds give way to magnificent parkland, guests can experience the refined joy of a 27-hole golf course, set amid the inexplicable wonder of the surrounding countryside of Hohenlohe. This is the latest in a long line of additions to the hotel grounds to have undergone expansion – originally, when first opened in 1964, it consisted of nine holes, before this was doubled in 1994. The final eight holes were added in 2012, making this a relatively untapped escape spot for players in need of fresh ground.

There are even heated tee lodges along the path of the course, making it feasible for players to enjoy the golfing experience all year round.

As Jürgen Wegmann puts it, “one might be tempted to wonder what you should do today. Wander through the hotel’s gorgeous grand park with its copse of ancient trees? Play a round of golf, or even take a lesson at the Golf Academy? Visit the 4400-squaremeter spa and pamper yourself in ways you didn’t even know were possible?” The impression is clear – by establishing this loving establishment in a property built with the purpose of style and luxury fit for an aristocratic lifestyle, the modern Schlosshotel Friedrichsruhe possesses immeasurable charm, and its surroundings are so tranquil that they lend themselves wonderfully to this continued function.

“In Friedrichsruhe, innovation meets tradition. In our spacious resort, we are lucky that we are able to offer both. There is tradition in the old Jagdschloss, and modern innovation in the spa building, with its stylishly modern – but not too trendy – interior.”

Jürgen surmises the contrasts in the property with a certain efficiency, but even that does not do justice to the variety and innumerable options that are available to guests at Friedrichsruhe.

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Tradition, History, and Sensational Luxury Best Traditional Style Hotel 2016 – Japan & Best Luxury Japanese Bath Range 2016

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Tradition, History, and Sensational Luxury

Embodying everything that is quintessential about Japanese hospitality whist also striking an attractive, modern note that resonates with today’s discerning clientele is no enviable feat. Very few establishments are able to achieve this quite as remarkably as the Shousuke no Yado Takinoyu. From its vantage point in a noteworthy town, sitting in a picturesque valley, this hot-spring traditional Japanese-style inn caters to all types of clientele, boasting business facilities, wedding facilities, local icons of Japanese history, and private and public baths, all to meet the various needs of its guests.

Shosuke no Yado Takinoyu is the first of a series of inns on turnoff to Higashiyama Onsen from the road out of Aizu-Wakamatsu, a sprawling city in the Fukushima Prefecture of northern Honshu.

Immediately, it is clear that Higashiyama Onsen is an area of great natural beauty, tucked away from the hubbub, separated from the world by enveloping green forest, and punctuated by the soothing sounds of a flowing river in the background.

At present, the hotel industry in Japan is undergoing substantial campaigning efforts to attract more and more foreign guests into visiting Japan. As the market falls into step with this new prerogative, establishments such as the Shousuke no Yado Takinoyu must find ways to accommodate the anticipated injection of tourism.

“ We take special care in maintaining the landscape around our hotel in order for the guests to be able to experience a traditional Japanese hot spring.”

Styling itself as a ryokan, a type of traditional Japanese inn, the hotel boasts delightful modern touches to enhance the mineral-rich waters of the public baths, multi-course dinners, and communal spaces where guests can relax. The guest rooms, of which there are 50, are a reflection of traditional Japanese décor, being adorned with woven-straw flooring and futon mats, whilst also being fitting with modern private bathrooms, dreamy air conditioning, and as flat-screen TV.”Some rooms boast a seating area, where guests may lounge around in a yukata, enjoying a cup of tea and looking out over the flowing garden and the river beyond.

Ryokan are indeed an important part of Japanese culture – in the Edo period of the 17th to 18th Centuries, a period of isolationist foreign policy, which made the country incredibly reliant upon the recycled flow of resources across the country. These inns provided essential waystations to merchants travelling along Japan’s thoroughfares.

Today, ryokan are very hard to find in Tokyo and other large cities due to their rural location, and most

tourists tend to be drawn to the larger hotels in the city. With an increasing push to broaden the appeal of Japanese tourism, Takinoyu stands to benefit from a new influx of discerning tourists, looking for a luxury resort in an intensely beautiful scenic area; its historic function is as prevalent today as it ever was.

As such, in line with their expanding objective to provide service to foreign guests, Junichi Saito and his team have made a conscious effort to expand their staff to include multilingual employees, in the hope that this will make the hotel more appealing and welcoming to an increasingly diverse clientele.

Saito also highlights that the hotel team are also in the process of having their online sites translated into various foreign languages, to assist in marketing themselves on a global scale; in Japan this gentle transition is essential in order to fully appreciate the new surroundings.

This does not, however, overcome certain key challenges that the Shousuke no Yado Takinoyu faces. Junichi notices that there is a mounting pressure as the elderly population, as well as life expectancy, is increasing rapidly in Japan. As a hotel, he and his team will need to adapt to meet the needs of an aging population. This will include creating a barrier-free environment wherever possible.

One of the main factors that most concerns Junichi, though, is the rural surroundings of the hotel. “We are somewhat behind in keeping up with the everchanging demands of international tourism,” he says.

“We have no direct access to International Airports, which can make it difficult for international travellers.

Also, international signage and information is very minimal.” Indeed, the closest international airport, at Niigata, is over an hour and a half away by car. To make up for this, free shuttle service is provided to ensure that guests are not deprived of the chance to visit this enchanting area – “our establishment plans to provide support to speed up the process of becoming a more internationally prepared community. We change what we deem necessary, while being careful not to affect our establishment’s policies.”

That being said, being so remote is a tremendous boon to lends itself to the Shousuke no Yado Takinoyu. Junichi recognises that, and is able to make the best use of his surroundings by upholding the traditional elements of the hotel’s aesthetic. The

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lux resort itself bears a historical connection to Shousuke Ohara, a character in an old folk song. Takinoyu’s rustic surroundings allow the staff to capitalise upon this, by indulging their guests in quintessentially Japanese luxury.

in simple yet delightfully elegant wooden boxes, or upon compartmentalised trays with a collection of bowls, filled with locally-grown rice, vegetables and meats. There are no half-measures when it comes to providing guests with superb cuisine at Takinoyu.

Making full use of this exposure to classical Japanese history, and imbuing its romanticised aesthetics into its own upholstery, every night at the hotel features a variety of different entertainments, each with a deep connection to Japanese culture and history. The outdoor stage is the setting for storytelling, musical recitals on the shamisen, geisha dances, and more.

The combination of the lit-up stage, waterfall, and bamboo groves invite guests into a world of subtle and profound enchantment that only Japan can display with such affection.

Should guests wish to leave the confines of the ryokan, they have the liberty to take a bike out for the day and explore the surrounding area. Takinoyu is located right next to Fushimigataki Waterfall, one of the major scenic spots in Aizu, and while it can be viewed from a comfortable spot in the hotel’s open-air baths, it is far more imposing up close.

Naturally, it is important for a hotel to keep up with changing lifestyle and economic trends. However, at the same time, it is just as important to follow the policies and traditions that make that hotel special.

Junichi is very careful to find the balance between trend and tradition, but there is an inescapable romanticism at the heart of this property that will forever tie Takinoyu to its past.

“We take special care in maintaining the landscape around our hotel in order for the guests to be able to experience a traditional Japanese hot spring. We also prepare traditional local food and provide information on local history so our guests can get a piece of life in Aizu-Wakamatsu.

“Our policy of ‘welcome home’, treating all guests like they have come home to their family, is very clear to all of our staff members.”

“The expectations of guests change constantly as society changes. A hotel with such a long history as ours is also constantly changing to meet these expectations without losing our historic atmosphere.”

As such, the establishment offers free Wi-Fi and Internet to our guests, and there are also plans to use Projection Mapping in the future to enhance the guests’ stay with Junichi and the team.

Company: Shousuke no Yado Takinoyu Name: Junichi Saito Email: info@shousuke.com Web: http://shousuke.com Address: 108, Takinoyu, Yumoto, Higashiyamamachi, Aizu-wakamatsu, Fukushima, JAPAN, 965-0814 Phone: (+81)242-29-1000

Tradition, History, and Sensational Luxury

In the comfort of their own rooms, guests can experience first-hand how modernity has become so well integrated into traditional Japanese abodes such as Takinoyu. In one such room, the balcony is accessed through a high-tech shower alcove, where a small pristine bath of scented hinoki wood awaits – the perfect spot to enjoy a private lanternlit rotenburo (outdoor bath). This is a welcome alternative to the larger communal baths for men and women downstairs.

All of these distractions go without mentioning the gastronomical delights provided by the establishment.

Ever maintaining their traditional view on Japanese hospitality and culture, breakfast is a generous buffet set in a large dining room, with dishes for all tastes, and the unusual addition of freshly-made mocha, soft cakes of pounded rice with toppings. At mealtimes, history takes a forefront, as food arrives presented

“Although other hotels in the area look on to the same scenery,” Junichi comments, “our hotel is the only one in which you can experience a hot spring bath while enjoying the amazing view of a cascading waterfall that is so close you can almost touch it.

Relaxing to the sound and sight of a natural waterfall puts our hotel well above others in the area.”

In addition, the first intrusions of the Japanese Alps give plenty of opportunities for walking tours of the area – Mount Iomori is less than three kilometres from the hotel. Adding to these pleasant surroundings, Junichi’s establishment rests in the shadow of a prominent fortress, whose very existence is a permanent reminder to locals and tourists alike of Japan’s vibrant history.

Aizuwakamatsu Castle, also known as Tsuruga Castle, may be a reconstruction, but it nonetheless an imposing sight. The strongest and oldest fortress in all of Tohoku, it was first build in 1384, and gained prominence during the self-imposed isolationist era of the Tokugawa shogunate – it was governed by the Matsudaira samurai clan, who were themselves an ‘inner lord’ family owing to their close links to the Tokugawa family, responsible for keeping the various daimyo (local lord) families in line. For centuries, then, this bastion was a prominent fixture of the shogunate, a buffer between the allies of the shogun and their challengers, before falling in the Boshin War of 1868-9. The modern reconstruction sits upon the same site, a little island in the very heart of the city, and its panoramic views offer guests staying at the Takinoyu an easy foray into Japanese history that will leave them awed.

Anyone embarking on a tour of Japan might regard Takinoyu as an ideal pit-stop on their way through the country, owing to its central location, prime access to highways through the country, and its magnificent blend of historical charm and plush, modern hospitality. For Junichi, this means treating guests not as visitors as such, but as returning family. “We hold regular meetings to ensure that our staffs are kept up to date on all recent developments and to ensure that they are comfortable. Our policy of ‘welcome home’, treating all guests like they have come home to their family, is very clear to all of our staff members.

“In the future, we plan to continue to make the changes necessary to ensure that our Japanese guests, as well as our foreign guests, are able to experience the incredible hospitality of a Japanese traditional hotel.

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A Golfer’s Second Home

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A Golfer’s Second Home

Stradey Park Hotel in Llanelli offers a homely atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings to provide a truly indulgent break from it all.

Best Wellness Retreat 2016 - Carmarthenshire

Tucked into the Welsh hillside, Stradey Park Hotel offers luxurious individually-styled rooms designed to provide both comfort and style. A selection of 77 rooms, ranging from superior twin and double bedrooms, spacious family rooms, apartments to a magnificent suite grace this sumptuous Edwardian mansion hotel.

All the hotel’s accommodation is en-suite, with telephone, television, fax facilities and complementary wireless internet access, and these amenities, combined with the plush, traditional style furnishings, creates a unique combination of comfort and rustic charm which cannot be found anywhere else.

Staff at the hotel offer the very highest standard of service, ensuring that guests want for nothing, exemplifying for the luxury experience which visitors can expect from this stately establishment.

This hospitality extends to the hotel’s various eateries, which provide something for everyone; from business lunches to romantic meals, light bites to hearty repasts, everyone is catered for at Stradey Park Hotel.

“those seeking a rural Welsh hideaway where they can get away from it all and indulge in superior service and decadent food need look no further than the majestic Stradey Park Hotel.”

Establishment: Stradeypark Hotel Address: Llanelli, Carmarthenshire, South Wales, United Kingdom, SA15 4HA Email: reservations@stradeyparkhotel.com Web: www.stradeyparkhotel.com Phone: 01554 758171 Fax: 01554 777974

By sourcing seasonally, the establishment is able to ensure the freshness of the locally sourced produce which it crafts into sumptuous and innovative dishes in its Samphires Restaurant, where skilled Executive Head Chef - Stephen Colling and his team create a range of dishes to suit all tastes. With a focus on showcasing the beauty of the local ingredients, dishes include chicken supreme, served with warm potato and leek salad, charred mandarin, herb and white wine butter as well as succulent red snapper accompanied by samphire, dill and mustard coated potatoes with a caper hollandaise.

Gower and Carmarthen Bay make it an idyllic setting for an indulgent afternoon treat.

For those seeking a sociable bar experience the Parc Bar provides an informal, contemporary backdrop for you to relax and be made to feel at home. The decor is a modern twist on the Art Deco style making it a stylish place for guests as well as those attending events. The friendly bar staff add a welcoming atmosphere to accompany the chic interior and beautifully lit bar. Offering a range of delicious bar meals for more informal dining in Llanelli, during the day it is also the perfect place to relax with a warming drink from a vast selection of teas and coffees or for more informal dining from our bar menu.

The bar offers a range of ales, lagers, spirits, wines and liqueurs, many exquisite Welsh brands are stocked including the locally brewed Felinfoel Double Dragon ale, the superb single malt Penderyn and the deliciously creamy Merlyn. The Parc Bar is equipped with the full Sky Sports package offering seven Sky Sports channels and two British Eurosport channels in addition BT Sport is also available, giving you access to all the top sporting events.

For a true escape from it all the hotel also offers the Parc Spa Rooms, which provide a selection of day spa packages, as well as the opportunity to book individual spa and beauty treatments and spa breaks.

Treatments range from massages, facials, manicures and pedicures all of which utilise facial creams, soaps, body oils and toners which contain certified natural organic and wild crafted ingredients, with no chemical preservatives. Other facilities available to guests include hydrotherapy suite, relaxation and sleep rooms as a bespoke traditional copper tub.

Guests of a more sporting persuasion could not pick a better location, as Stradey Park Hotel is the ideal location for a golf trip, with some of the best courses in Wales and the UK on the doorstep ensuring that visitors will never be far from world class golfing. Rugby fans are also well catered for with the hotel located less than a ten-minute drive from Parc y Scarlets, making it the perfect base to return to after the game for a delicious bar meal and a pint of Welsh ale.

Ultimately, those seeking a rural Welsh hideaway where they can get away from it all and indulge in superior service and decadent food need look no further than the majestic Stradey Park Hotel.

To round off the meal, a range of decedent desserts is available including chocolate meringue with Amaretto, black cherry and chocolate ganache and a selection of ice creams and sorbets or a vanilla panna cotta with rhubarb compote, honeycomb and baby basil. Fresh cream teas which are homemade on site are also available, providing guests with a round and a half of sandwiches, quiche and a selection of homemade cakes including freshly baked scones with jam and clotted cream with their choice of tea or coffee. The hotel’s stunning panoramic views over the

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Le Chateau Lambousa

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LUX Hotel & Spa Awards 2016 - Cyprus

Le Chateau Lambousa

Le Chateau Lambousa Hotel is situated in a small resort town of Lapta, North Cyprus; known to be the pearl of the Mediterrean, owing to its intense beauty, . The hotel was originally built in 1990, but reopened in the summer of 2014. We have created so many dreams and have become part of a beginning chapter for those who are wishing to share their beautiful story with Le Chateau Lambousa.

Le Chateau Lambousa is truly unlike any hotel that can be found for miles around. For a start, it is the only themed hotel in North Cyprus to be designed as a medieval knight’s castle, with an atmosphere that takes its guests back in the past through a blend of local stone, marble and timber, warm muted colours and decorative features such as mosaics, arches and columns.

The hotel seems to get lost in its own medievalist fantasy at times. As soon as guests arrive, they enter under an arched stone entrance, welcoming them to the “Kingdom of Hospitality”. The reception area beyond is adorned in marbled flooring, and guarded by suits of armour nestled in the corners; medieval oil paintings grace the pearly white walls. Even the hotel rooms are tastefully furnished in keeping with the medieval aesthetic, with their individual balconies appearing from the outside as machicolations upon towering walls.

“ Turkish Cypriots are well known and recognized throughout the world for their hospitality and friendliness, and we are very proud of our culture and heritage.”

Beneath this façade of mighty ostentatiousness, though, the reality soon sinks in that this is, first and foremost, a place of relaxation and enjoyment. Guests are enveloped in a world of constant background activity, where everything that goes on is to enhance and smoothen their time in this palatial abode – in much the same way as the Byzantine Emperors that once ruled the island, and whose presence lingers in the form of Eastern-inspired arches and smart, organised structures. In that light, the gentle medieval flavourings are but an introduction to the sort of splendid luxury that guests can expect in the Chateau Lambousa.

Ufuk Çağa, the hotel manager, is adamant in his belief that customer service is what really brings the guests to feel at home and at ease. He can attest to this through the experiences of his establishment over the last three years.

“Since the re-opening of our Hotel in 2014,” he reflects, “we have had many repeat guests who choose Le Chateau Lambousa because of the impression we give them and when they leave. We always believe in raising standards when it comes

to service and making our guests feel at home. We recognise what our guests wants and needs; late check-outs, complimentary wine and fruit sent to the rooms.”

Having such a diverse establishment dramatically affects the guests experience, as it truly gives a chance to escape from reality, and into a world where they might call home. To Ufuk, this goes beyond being simply a receptionist for the clients – “we make sure our guests are greeted and made to feel at home. Turkish Cypriots are well known and recognized throughout the world for their hospitality and friendliness, and we are very proud of our culture and heritage; this is what we express and want our guests to feel.”

Owing to the balmy climate and the proximity to such picturesque ocean scenery, a great deal of the Cypriote tourism industry is dependent on the leisure traveller. However, Ufuk recognises that tourism is composed not only of leisure travellers, but also comprises other groups such as business travellers and adventurers; no matter the nature of their coming to Cyprus, though, these non-leisure travellers will often act and spend in the same way as leisure travellers. That means ensuring that his property is outfitted in abundance with the sort of facilities that they would expect.

This all begins from the guests’ first introductions to the hotel and to their rooms. Based on these first impressions, there is every rightful confidence of good things to come – from the 24-hour service to the weekly and daily customer satisfactory surveys, which give the staff an insight into the continuously evolving needs of each of the guests.

For Ufuk, what matter the most is what guests think of about the hotel, owing to his devoted aim of making sure that each and every one of the guests have a unique and memorable experience. Indeed, the establishment has grown into a pleasure palace, suitable equipped to offer guests a once-in-alifetime opportunity to escape and truly delve in the Mediterranean lifestyle.

The outside area of the hotel is landscaped in true tranquillity and lush gardens, set by the turquoise hues of the Mediterranean Sea and the glorious mountains scattered along the north and south. La Cheateau Lambousa also boasts an exclusive beach just for its guests, equipped with a beach bar so that guests can enjoy an ice cold drink and a snack.

Closer to the main complex are three large outdoor fresh water pools, built especially for comfort; pool

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lux bars, including a swim-up bar, allow guests to sip cocktails from the comfort of a poolside lounge or take in the sun whilst enjoying delicious snacks.

Ufuk’s aim is to make his guests feel truly at home, giving them comfort and luxury. His technıques are rather simple, harnessing a belief in constant service and being at the guests’ beck and call. One technique that he employs to ensure that our guests are given the best service is actually by empowering our staff to make decisions at any costs without having to consult management, it shows our guests that our staff are dedicated to their needs.

On top of all of this, the Seven Waves Spa is what truly sets Le Chateau Lambousa apart from other hotels in Lapta – the presence of a luxurious spa is, Ufuk believes, essential to giving guests every luxury that they could require.

“Our spa rituals truly help our clientele escape from the bustle of daily life and rediscover their inner harmony and balance,” he details. “We have highly qualified therapists providing a customized, orientated spa experience. The Spa features a Private VIP spa with a couple treatment suite, Sauna and steam room, Hydrotherapy bath, Turkish bath room, and lastly a contemporary fitness facility.”

“One of the most prevalent trends that I have noticed is that more travellers want to explore lesser-known destinations, especially those that are untouched or unique.

This is very much an advantage for us, as North Cyprus is one of the only countries to be divided in such a way.”

Of course, with its romantic, sweeping arches, abundant gastronomical pleasures, sensational spa and idyllic setting, Le Chateau Lambousa has become a hot spot for luxury weddings. There is a regular buzz around the hotel, even during the laziest of hours, as the hotel staff prepare for an incoming party of celebrating wedding guests, but this is hardly intrusive upon the rest of the clientele, if at all.

“The industry is exposed to political, health, and economic issues that are seen in the media, and these ups and downs are outside our control,” Ufuk readily states. “Having an awareness of current challenges can help us prepare for any eventual challenges that we will face.

“One of the most prevalent trends that I have noticed is that more travellers want to explore lesser-known destinations, especially those that are untouched or unique. This is very much an advantage for us, as North Cyprus is one of the only countries to be divided in such a way.

Le Chateau Lambousa

“One of the struggles in the tourism industry is trying to stand out from the competition, but we always believe in going our own path. Being in such a competitive industry we must be able to push the boundaries and stand from the rest. The tourism market has produced the same products that are available throughout the world. It is part of the reason why we follow our own trends; we don’t want customers to forget what country our hotel is located in.”

Leaving aside these potential hurdles and considerations, though, Ufuk’s intense passion for the hotel shines through, as does his determination to present his untampered vision to his clients through unperturbed service and world-class facilities at Le Chateau Lambousa.

“Travel,” Ufuk says, emphatically, “is one of the most fun, personally rewarding and exciting things that we do in our lives. Technology is having a profound effect on the travel, tourism and hospitality industry. From airline boarding on your mobile device to travel rates and reviewing websites, mobile technology and social media is changing the way we approach every aspect of the travel experience including how we research, plan, personalize and purchase travel products and services. Mobile technology and social media is even changing the way we share and show our travel experiences to our friends and families.

“These changes will lead to many opportunities for employees and entrepreneurs who can understand mobile technology and social media and how to make it work within the industry, as far as interacting with travellers before and during and even after they have taken a trip. The most significant reason why our guests come back is the warmth and friendliness that we provide, we want our guests to feel like they are family and they are part of Le Chateau Lambousa.

“Looking into the future,” he continues, “one of the most exciting developments we have in future is an extension of Le Chateau Lambousa, which is called the ‘The Celebrity’. The location of The Celebrity is located on the Mediterranean seafront, which we hope to re-open to the public in September 2017.

The Celebrity Hotel is the first Turkish Cypriot Hotel to open in Northern Cyprus in the year 1975 by the Founder and Honorary President of the TRNC Hoteliers Association, John Aziz Kent.

Company: Le Chateau Lambousa Name: Gulfer Zorlu Email: cagaufuk@hotmail.com Web: www.kambousahotel.com Address: Lapta, Kyrenia, Mersin 10/Turkey Telephone: +90 392 821 3535

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Under the Radar

- The Hottest New Slope-side Destinations

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Under the Radar - The Hottest New Slope-side Destinations

Les Gets, French Alps

Alpine Guru specialise in exceptional, one-of-a-kind chalets and hotels in the world’s premier ski resorts, offering over 500 different rental properties in over 30 destinations worldwide. The properties featured by Alpine Guru are all individually selected for their exquisite level of service, style and amenities. Alpine Guru’s service sets it apart from other luxury holiday rental companies, with all customers given a completely bespoke booking experience. Using their impressive local knowledge and book of contacts worldwide, Alpine Guru are able to arrange almost anything that their guest should desire; from assistance with standard services, from spa treatments and restaurant reservations, right through to more challenging and unique requests.

Oliver Corkhill, ski travel expert and Co-Founder of luxury chalet specialists Alpine Guru, shares exclusively with LUX his top picks of where to head for under-the-radar slope-side luxury before the ski crowds cotton on.

Cortina, Italy

Graydon, French Alps

Steamboat Springs, Utah, USA

Cortina, Italy Boasting a spectacular setting amidst the beautiful Dolomite mountain range is Cortina- an elegant resort with a quietly glamorous reputation, attracting serious skiers the world over thanks to its uncrowded slopes.

Despite having long been thought of as one of the best shopping destinations in the Dolomites, luxury chalets have been few and far between in Cortina until now, thanks to the opening of a brand new luxury ‘village’ in the heart of the exclusive Via Mendardi area. Sure to attract a raft of new luxury-seekers to the area, Chalet LV01 Dolce Vita is one of the village’s three exceptional brand new chalets available to hire for the first time for the Winter 2016/17 season; one of my favourite new additions to our collection.

Sleeping up to 8 guests across 4 en-suite bedrooms, luxury ski living simply doesn’t come much better than this. Opulent furnishings sit alongside top of the range technology, crackling fireplaces bring warmth to spacious living areas; there’s even a soundproofed cinema and a fully-stocked wine cellar at your disposal. The basement homes an excellent spa, complete with 20 metre pool and you needn’t lift a finger; a butler is on hand to tend to your every need, 24 hours per day. Bliss. Priced from £5,375 per person per week based on 8 sharing.

Graydon, French Alps Morzine’s sleepier little sister, Graydon is a tranquil hamlet just a stone’s throw from the well-known resort; close enough to head there for some après, far enough away for an under-the-radar break in the mountains that still manages to pack a serious punch in the luxury stakes. I would highly recommend Le Grand Joux chalet- the ideal choice for style-seekersan utterly unique, lavish property tucked away in the heart of Graydon, only accessible via snowmobile or 4x4 once the snows of winter set in. Sleeping up to 10 guests across five impressive en-suite bedrooms, the chalet expertly blends traditional, elegant Alpine interiors with plenty of opulent touches; think fur throws, open log fires and vintage leather sofas.

Guests here have their own in-chalet bar for an evening tipple or two, plus a seriously good spa complete with indoor swimming pool, steam room, dry flotation bath and massage room. There’s even a

yoga deck outside with a hot tub, sauna and massage yurt. The perfect choice for off-the-beaten track luxury, or simply for some serious R&R in amazing surroundings. Priced from £1,500 per person per week based on 10 sharing.

Steamboat Springs, Utah, USA Thanks to the announcement that Delta is set to offer direct flights from London Heathrow- Salt Lake City three times per week throughout the 2016/17 winter season, Utah’s glistening slopes are set to become more accessible to luxury travellers than ever before. As a result, I predict that the unique ranch-style resort of Steamboat Springs will become somewhat of a rising star in the luxury ski travel world; offering a raft of impressive chalets and renowned for its ‘Champagne Powder’ snow which falls in abundance every season. Head to Graystone Lodgean exceptional newly built chalet which we added to our luxury collection this year, offering up to 10 guests truly 5* amenities and incredible mountain views. With an open plan design, guests can expect grand vaulted ceilings, wooden floors and huge picture windows plus plenty to keep them amused in the TV and games room on the ground floor; including a private bar, pool table and even an X-box console. Those with energy to spare after a day exploring Steamboat Spring’s powder-rich pistes can work out in the fitness room, sweat it out in the private sauna or can simply sit back in their own private hot tub on the patio; the ideal spot for a nightcap under the stars. Priced from £518 per person per week based on 10 sharing.

Les Gets, French Alps This beautiful village dating back to the 12th century is often overlooked in favour of its larger, higher neighbours of Morzine and Avoriaz, yet it shouldn’t be underestimated; fantastic restaurants, good ski links across the Portes du Soleil and a raft of outstanding chalets make it a real underdog of the luxury ski scene, and one of my own personal favourites for a quieter ski break. For a truly off-piste escape head to Chalet Ferme de Moudon, an intensely private chalet just three minutes’ drive from Les Gets’ centre, tucked away at the end of a private lane in the Moudon hamlet. Designed by the talented Nicky

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lux Rhodhope Mountains, Bulgaria

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Le Chateau Lambousa

Dobree, the chalet has numerous design and style accolades under its belt; homing state-of-the-art technology, contemporary furnishings and plenty of traditional Alpine touches. Sleeping 12 across 5 en-suite bedrooms, guests are treated to Jo Malone bath products, personal bathrobes and slippers, and a pillow and duvet menu. For relaxation, there’s a private sauna and massage room, plus a steaming hot tub on the outdoor terrace. Best of all, the chalet comes complete with a professional team of chefs, butler and housekeeping- there to tend to your every need. Priced from £890 per person per week based on 12 sharing.

Rhodhope Mountains, Bulgaria Bulgaria hasn’t typically been synonymous with the word ‘luxury’, but that’s slowly set to change thanks to an increasing number of boutique ski properties opening their doors to guests; notably in the Rhodhope Mountains. Ideal for those in search of the type of privacy that many of the more mainstream Alpine resorts simply can’t afford, the Pamporovo ski resort offers great skiing ideal for beginners or those looking to take it easy, with well-maintained pistes and typically good visibility.

One of the forerunners of ski luxury in the area is Villa Gella- an authentic chalet for up to 12 guests, hidden away in the picturesque village of Gela.

Sleek in design, the chalet itself boasts modern interiors with neutral fabrics and plenty of nods to the surrounding mountainscape, plus a large terrace complete with outdoor dining area and incredible two hundred and eighty degree views of the surrounding mountains. Family run, the chalet goes above and beyond to offer a warm, personal service to guests; not least when it comes to the food. Dimka, the owner’s mother, prepares exceptional daily meals, from traditional bread and Rakia on arrival to locally-sourced delicacies in the evening, paired with award-winning wines from the families’ Terra Tangra vineyard. After all that food, simply sit back and relax in Villa Gella’s in-house spa, complete with ten-metre indoor jet swimming pool, steam room, gym and treatment area. I know I would. Priced from £600 per person per week on a half-board basis.

St Martin de Belleville, French Alps

St Martin de Belleville, French Alps Situated in the world-renowned Trois Vallées ski area, St Martin de Belleville offers luxury seekers laid-back charm and exceptional value - the perfect counterpart to its more established jet-set neighbours of Courchevel and Méribel. What’s striking about this under-the-radar Alpine resort is its traditional feel; unlike its larger neighbours, the village hasn’t been hit by the tourism masses and so enjoys a calm, quiet atmosphere with friendly locals and great restaurants, plus quick access to the rest of the Trois Vallées; it’s also wonderfully family-friendly. For a luxurious base, I’d recommend The Ecurie- a new addition to our portfolio for the 2016/17 winter season. This 130 year old stable block has been wonderfully converted into an impressive escape for up to 8 guests, boasting seriously stylish interiors expertly blending the old with the new. A double height open plan living and dining area, separated by a sleek open fireplace, offers a spacious area to unwind after a day on the slopes, whilst the four bedrooms offer sink-in beds and sleek en-suites stocked with luxury toiletries. All rooms have doors leading onto the balcony or terrace, plus incredible views over the old hamlet of Villarabout towards the snow-capped mountains. Priced from £875 per person per week based on 8 sharing.

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Paradise by the Seaplane Lights; Soneva, The Maldives

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Paradise by the Seaplane Lights; Soneva, The Maldives

Over 20 years ago, newly married Sonu and Eva Shivdasani honeymooned in the Maldives and fell in love with the stunning, natural beauty of the region. Since that time the couple, who had previously created the world renowned Six Senses Spa brand, have established not just a company, but a way of life in the form in the form of Soneva, a luxury resort concept where you can now buy a home and enjoy a desert island style of living, year after year.

Soneva, an amalgamation of Sonu and Eva’s’ names, offers visitors the chance to escape reality and embrace a new way of life which resonates with them forever. The three islands; Soneva Kiri in Thailand, as well as Soneva Fushi and the newly opened Soneva Jani, all embody the same unique Intelligent Luxury concept, which seeks to provide innovative and creative new experiences for guests. As Sonu himself expertly defines it: “Luxury is not about what is simply expensive, but about what is rare. Guests cannot find the sense of freedom and tranquility that we offer at Soneva anywhere else in the world, which is why this is the ultimate in luxury.”

The company made history over 20 years ago by being the first developer to offer magnificent homes for foreigner buyers seeking to purchase a small slice of paradise in the Maldives. The decision to sell space on its first Maldives based venture, Soneva Fushi, made sense for many visitors, as around 52 per cent of guests return at least once to the resort.

The first private residence owned by an overseas buyer, a sprawling four-bedroom Jungle Reserve villa, formed the basis of a business built upon the Founders’ unique Slow Life philosophy; Sustainable, Local, Organic, Wellness, Learning, Inspiring, Fun, Experiences.

All of these and much more are on offer at the three resorts. Sustainability comes in the form of the islands’ self-sufficiency focus, which sees the resorts ban all bottled water, choosing instead to filter their own in a bid to reduce waste and environmental damage. Nothing goes to waste, and everything from coconut rope to biofuels and even compost for the gardens is created from the superfluous products produced by the resorts. Even the open air cinema on Soneva Fushi is a recycled helipad; a hangover from before the firm started using seaplanes to transport guests.

Recently the resorts have been exploring new ways to power the islands, and as such have been increasing their focus on solar power, with additional solar panels being installed on Soneva Fushi in order to eventually produce 30% of the island’s power during the daylight hours. Attention has also turned to reusing the resort’s glass waste, and as well as compacting this into lightweight building materials the resort has also found a more creative use for discarded bottles and jars in the form of its glass blowing school, where guests can learn the techniques which form this ancient and revered craft. The school has become so popular that many

of the very best glassblowers from around the world, including Clifford Rainey and Lino Tagliapietra, have visited to run workshops and displayed their work in the island’s gallery.

Sustainability is of vital importance to Soneva because of its focus on showcasing the natural beauty of its islands. On Soneva Jani, a collection of five islands in the Noonu Atoll formed into one gorgeous resort, guests can sleep under the stars in true comfort thanks to retractable roofs in their villas; the properties which are build overwater, of which a number are for sale, also feature slides into the sea and overwater dining, creating a true affinity with the resorts beautiful Indian Ocean setting. There also island villas for sale that have direct access to the white sand beach and views over the lagoon, one of which has already been snapped up by a British buyer.

Sonu explains, “we live in an ever more crowded and developed world. Soneva Jani is one of the lowest density resorts in the world. Just 25 villas are built in an area that stretches nearly five kilometres.

When designing and building Soneva Jani, I was very mindful that when we open, the area should seem as natural and beautiful as the first day I laid eyes on it.”

Both Soneva Jani and Soneva Fushi offer visitors the chance to experience every element of nature to the fullest, with experiences including treetop dining, an observatory where visitors can be regaled with tales of the stars by the firm’s professional astronomer and a dive school, where the more adventurously minded can indulge in a range of water sports and explore the colourful coral reef.

It is this natural beauty, combined with the high level of attention to detail, which makes these resorts so intensely popular. Everyone is catered for, and there really is something for everyone, from diving for the more adventurous to an atmospheric spa for those looking to relax and unwind. For younger visitors the resorts offer the superb Den, a dedicated child friendly space where everyone from babies through to teenagers can enjoy a range of facilities, including a pool with a water slide, dedicated space for small children, a room entirely dedicated to Lego and a music space with a number of instruments, including a drum kit and a keyboard. With parental permission, children over the age of four are free to come and go as they please from the Den, giving them the freedom to explore and enjoy the island as they please.

Parents are also welcomed, and indeed encouraged, because the Den is ultimately, as Manager Kash

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Villas at Soneva Jani start at USD 3Million.

Owners can opt to put their property in a managed rental programme, giving an average cash yield of 4.2% p.a.

There are regular direct flights to the Maldives (MalĂŠ International Airport) from the UK with British Airways flying several times per week with a flight time of 10 hours. The resort is then only 35 minutes by seaplane from MalĂŠ Airport or a 12-minute speedboat ride for guests on domestic flights landing at the nearby Dharavandhoo Airport.

Vicky Goodall, Director +44 (0)20 8614 7503 +44 (0)7762 556 188 Crown House, 9 Duke Street, Richmond, Surrey, TW9 1HP vicky.goodall@p1communications.com www.p1communications.com www.twitter.com/P1Comms

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Paradise by the Seaplane Lights; Soneva, The Maldives

Izydokcyk is eager to emphasise, “a space where families can make memories together in a child friendly environment.”

For those parents who wish to leave their children in the care of Kash’s dedicated team, there are plenty of places on the islands to enjoy the new found freedom. Soneva Fushi boasts the glorious beachfront bar, Bara Bara, where guests can indulge in refreshing cocktails on mesh hammocks which hang over the sea. Guests are waited on hand and foot by the committed and conscientious staff, whether they are lounging at the bar or reclining in their own villa, each of which comes with its own personal Mr or Mrs Friday- a reference to Robinson Crusoe, the book on which the islands are themedwho is available to provide guests with whatever they need, from food and beverages to tips on the best local islands to visit.

The Robinson Crusoe theme is ever prevalent the more time you spend on the islands, with many features of the villas incorporating a desert island theme, with TVs hidden inside leather trunks, wood paneling on many of the doors and coconut roofs offering a relaxed and simple atmosphere. Owners are able to personalise their own villas with various facilities including a gym, sauna, Jacuzzi and even a Shisha room. Despite being customisable to the owner’s specifications, every villa retains the resort’s signature style which the creative team, headed by Eva Shivdasani herself, has honed over many years, and can be defined as ‘Rustic Chic’. The resort even has storage rooms for the personal possessions of the villa’s owners so that when they stay in their villa they can truly feel at home. Each resort has a different colour scheme to set it apart; Soneva Fushi incorporates tropical yellows, oranges and greens, whilst the recently unveiled Soneva Jani is bedecked in white and purple furnishings, with the pure tones contrasting beautifully with the natural aqua of the ocean which surrounds the overwater villas on the resort.

Alongside Soneva Jani, the firm has also recently debuted its sumptuous two-bedroom yacht, which features space for up to five staff, a fully functional kitchen complete with ice machine, coffee maker and cold store, a hidden bath with a built in porthole and a sun deck on which guests can relax and what the sun rise in the early morning, or gaze at the stars as the night draws in. Owners can trade time in their own property to experience a trip on board Soneva in Aqua I, which combines luxurious glamour with function in the form of the disguised MacBook, Wi-Fi capabilities and onboard library.

Overall, what makes these resorts truly remarkable is the combination of the natural beauty of the islands and the decadence and attention to detail of the facilities. Both Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani are built around nature, allowing visitors to enjoy the very best these tranquil islands have to offer.

To learn more about owning your own little piece of these serene island retreats, visit http://www.soneva. com/soneva-residences/ or call the UK sales office on +44(0)7970 550986. Alternatively, Sales Director Marco Bonini will be happy to help; email him at marco@soneva.com.

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Exclusive Luxury on Our Doorstep

Exclusive Luxury on Our Doorstep Facebook Cambrian Park and Leisure Homes Twitter – @CambrianHomes Instagram – Cambrianlodges

Helen Scott, director at Cambrian Park & Leisure Homes, which has been producing high-end bespoke luxury lodges for the past decade, gives us an insight to why we are now looking closer to home when searching for a luxury break.

Long gone are the days when a luxury holiday meant you had to jump on a plane to an exotic destination.

Beautiful locations, five-star facilities and top quality accommodation has made the UK an equally appealing destination in recent years. Dorset, North Wales and the Scottish Highlands are just some of the exclusive destinations that are proving popular for those searching for a luxury UK break.

Since 2008 the so-called ‘staycation’ trend has taken off as holidaymakers look for unique holidays closer to home. Visit England recently revealed that 5.1 million Brits organised a staycation over the August Bank Holiday, up from 4.7 million last year.

With celebs such as Kate Moss holidaying in The Cotswolds and The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge taking advantage of the Anglesey coast, the staycation trend has never been so popular.

It’s fair to say that UK breaks have transformed over recent years. The UK was once known for its rainy coastal holidays but this perception has radically changed recently as the leisure industry responds to the new demand for luxury. Holiday parks have been transformed into exclusive indulgent getaways that offer high-end facilities with sumptuous accommodation and 5* restaurants while B&B’s have undergone stylish makeovers to become boutique hotels in vibrant city locations.

Beautiful Locations on Our Doorstep A growing number of holidaymakers are looking for rest and relaxation at an exclusive rural retreat or a stunning costal getaway. The scenic locations on our doorstep lend themselves perfectly to this, from the beautiful Norfolk coastline to the peaceful mountainous welsh countryside of Snowdonia. On the other hand, more and more holidaymakers are taking advantage of our buzzing cities that have lots to see and do - York and Edinburgh are great examples of popular city break destinations.

Although people are choosing UK breaks, they are still looking for lavish and exclusive experiences like they would have at top quality foreign destination.

The leisure industry is taking full advantage of the increased demand by producing the ultimate in luxury in both rural and city locations.

A Home from Home Self-catering breaks are also proving to be hugely popular as people opt for group getaways with family and friends. Idyllic rural cottages and luxury bespoke lodges are the ideal accommodation for those who are looking to relax together in their own private space.

Creating a stylish ‘home from home’ is a request we regularly receive from our customers’ who are looking for a lodge to use for holiday breaks and long weekends. We have been producing high-end bespoke lodges for over a decade and in the past year we have seen a 20% rise in enquires from those looking to invest in a luxurious retreat.

It is clear that the UK holiday market is moving towards stunning lodge units on exclusive holiday parks, like The Warren in Abersoch and Silver Bay in Anglesey that now offer fine-dining, spa facilities, private beaches and adult-only bars. Those looking to invest in a private lodge desire the ultimate in luxury accommodation including all the high-tech modern appliances found in their own homes. Media walls, fine wine cabinets and walk in wet rooms are just some of the features we include in our high-end lodges.

With such beautiful destinations in the UK, and the increasing availability of luxury hotels and exclusive destinations on our doorstep, I can’t see the trend for ‘staycations’ slowing down any time soon.

Founded in 2006 Cambrian Park and Leisure Homes is based in Porthmadog, in Snowdonia. It employs 150 highly skilled staff to design and build exclusive, bespoke lodges tailored to suit individual customers’ requirements.

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New Ethical Lingerie Range Launches Crowd-Funding Campaign

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New Ethical Lingerie Range Launches Crowd-Funding Campaign

AmaElla, a new ethical lingerie brand offering stylish, organic cotton designs, produced according to strong ethical principles, is to be launched via a crowd-funding campaign this month. The two best friends behind this social venture aim to raise £10,000 to enable their first production run. Investors will be offered benefits additional to the feel good, look good, do good factors they’ll experience by being first to take delivery of such elegant, ethical lingerie.

AmaElla, a new ethical lingerie brand combining the softest certified organic cotton with simple, sensuous, vintage designs to help women feel, look and do good, is about to become a dream come true for Cambridge-based social entrepreneurs Lara San Gil and Julie Kervadec.

They manufacture ethically too, only using organisations that adhere to their strict social and environmental criteria. The high quality fabric, designs and manufacturing processes AmaElla is committed to, ensure that all their garments are long-lasting (they look like new after 50 washes).

AmaElla’s wider vision is of a more sustainable and responsible fashion industry. AmaElla’s garments enable you to become part of this movement.

Lara and Julie met whilst studying for a Masters in International Marketing and Communication in Madrid. Collaborating on a L’Oréal brainstorming competition, and making it through as finalists, it became clear they shared a common purpose of a social nature, a common frustration, of an undergarment nature and a complimentary skill-set, of an entrepreneurial nature.

“As consumers, we’re both very mindful of health, ethical and style concerns. We got talking about our frustration at being unable to find organic cotton lingerie that looked elegant. Whilst there are brands offering stylish non-synthetic clothing, none seemed to be developing stylish non-synthetic lingerie, the layer we wear closest to our skin,” observes Julie.

“The issue is that synthetic materials, commonly used in lingerie, hold moisture close to the skin, increasing the likeliness of infection. More than 75% of women experience a yeast infection in their lifetime, with 1 in 20 having recurrent thrush. To avoid these problems, dermatologists and skincare experts recommend cotton to guarantee good skin perspiration and breathability, yet the organic cotton lingerie on the market lacked appeal to style conscious consumers,” Lara explains further.

Their chance conversation became the basis of a strong friendship and business idea. AmaElla (a wordplay meaning ‘she loves’, or ‘love her’ in Spanish) was accepted into Cambridge Social Ventures’ incubator programme, part of the Centre for Social Innovation at Cambridge Judge Business School, in January 2016. The two have since worked tirelessly to develop their business plan and first product range. They chose a crowd-funding

campaign, rather than turning to more traditional methods of finance, to fund their venture, because it fits their business model and values.

“Upeffect it is a crowd-funding platform for conscious consumers. It’s a great fit with our target audience.

The way Upeffect supports social business, from the beginning to the end of the campaign, matches exactly our needs. We’re so excited about launching and seeing how much interest there is for our ethical brand,” advises Lara.

Looking to raise £10,000 for its first production run, AmaElla is offering a range of rewards to investors, including pre-ordering at discounted prices to ensure they receive their lingerie ahead of retailers. Perhaps the biggest reward though, is the knowledge that their investment is enabling a new brand of ethical lingerie that offers health conscious, style savvy, ethical consumers garments that are: • •

•

Organic, carbon neutral and free from hazardous chemicals; Manufactured in Europe by suppliers who comply with strict social criteria, including: no outsourcing, no child labour, no forced labour, strong health & safety policy, and some evidence of activities that increase the wellbeing of local communities; Driving awareness and engagement in the ethical fashion movement.

As well as crowd-funders, Lara and Julie are looking for brand ambassadors to help spread the word about ethical fashion. They invite readers to follow, like and share their campaign on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and Twitter. After all, as they state on their web site: your fashion choices today have the power to drive change tomorrow.

AmaElla Ethical Lingerie l.sangil@amaella.com / j.kervadec@amaella.com 07476664976 / 077490950424 AmaElla, Future Business Centre, King’s Hedges Road, Cambridge, CB4 2HY.

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William L. 1985 – A New Face to Luxury Watches

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William L. 1985 – A New Face to Luxury Watches

Guillaume’s story begins with his inheriting an unbranded chronograph wristwatch from his great-great-uncle, dating back to the 1950s. Rusty and full of dirt, Guillaume recognised immediate appeal in the watch’s timeless aspects. Today, he is quickly gaining attention for his efforts to bring watches of a stunning visual and functional design; through Black Diamond, Guillaume discussed his vision with LUX Magazine, ahead of his visit to London to present this homespun Parisian brand to the discerning and hungry audiences of the UK capital.

Please give an overview of your company and the market it operates in.

I created my company one and a half years ago and I launched ‘William L 1985’ through Kickstarter on the 1st October 2015 reaching €192,000 in one month.

Now the brand is distributed in more than 20 countries including France, Germany, UK, Japan, China, Hong Kong, and Russia. I have since hired four people to help me to further develop the company.

Please describe your role within the company & your key responsibilities.

My role is to develop the products, from the design to the distribution and now to keep the team motivated and always in good spirits.

How long have you been active in your current position and is it something you aspired to be?

I have always aspired to become a successful entrepreneur. Before I went out on my own and created William L.1985, I worked in several roles within the watch industry where I developed and acquired many skills that I now use in my current role as Founder and product developer at William L.1985. Working for LVMH and Richemont was very good training for this new career. To be honest I was tired of the very vertical management of these mega luxury groups where the initiatives are broken by the too many hierarchical strata.

BLACK DIAMOND Venetia Sheppard 15 Bedford Street, Covent Garden, London, WC2E 9HE +44 (0)20 7845 6366

Please walk me through your career milestones.

Please touch base on your education, your first role and how your career has progressed to this level.

My first milestone was to develop the social media for Zenith Watches in 2009. It was the beginning of Facebook and Youtube so everything was new and ready to develop. The challenge was to raise awareness of the older management that yes, doing advertising on Facebook was relevant. Thanks to this kind of project, I had the chance to work closely with the top management and I learnt a lot about the Watchmaking business.

How do you manage staff? Do you have any key principles you adhere to?

During my different jobs, I have seen a lot of different kind of management so I try to replicate the best thing I have seen. I am always honest about what I think and transparent about my decisions. I try to involve my team in all the strategic and daily decisions. Even for the decoration of our new office we have made a vote to decide on the furniture and wallpaper. I want my staff to always improve their skills and I do not hesitate to pay for training. When I see that my decision is not well received I try to understand why and find a solution with the team.

What challenges have you had to face and overcome throughout your career, and how has this impacted upon your view on how to run a company?

To develop my William L. 1985 project in addition of my daily job was a big challenge, motivation was the key of success. But my decision to quit a very well payed job in Switzerland working for one of the best watchmaking brand, Jaeger-LeCoultre, was a very hard decision to take, and was the biggest challenge ever to me. But if you don’t take risks at least once in your life you will always have regrets to not doing it.

How important would you say it is to keep up to date with the latest technology trends?

Very important, in my position you always have to be up to date with the last communication technology to always be innovative and in touch with the right customers. Then you have to make decisions - do I put money on Instagram or Snapchat? Or get back to old fashion communication ways? And when it is your money and not an LVMH budget I can assure you that you think twice.

How do you make sure your products are innovative and will become best sellers in the market?

The Kickstarter campaign was a giant marketing survey and it worked pretty wall in over 50 countries so it was a very good way to test the market. Now I check meticulously the websites and social media statistics to see which products get the most interest.

How do you keep up with industry trends? And is this becoming more difficult to do as new technology is released daily?

I like all my industry competitors (and other industries benchmarks) on Facebook and Instagram, etc. So I get all the fresh news about them and this keeps me very up to date.

What are the key attributes you possess that makes you an award winning business leader?

I am very creative, I am not afraid to make decisions, I am always in a good mood and positive and try to give this attitude to my team.

How do you keep yourself motivated and positive in order to be successful?

The fact that I work for myself is a great source of motivation. Now I will not be able to do something else so it keeps me very motivated.

Finally, what are your future aspirations for this firm? & where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time?

I want to realize the most optimistic objectives we have and make William L 1985 grow as much as possible. In five years I hope we will be distributed in more than 70 countries.

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Cin Cin by the Sea: A Caribbean Paradise

Cin Cin by the Sea: A Caribbean Paradise Incorporating contemporary furnishings and fresh cuisine, Cin Cin by the Sea overlooks the stunning west coast of Barbados offering an amazing, unique dining experience.

An elegant restaurant on the West Coast of Barbados that offers ‘alfresco dining’ with sweeping views of the Caribbean Sea featuring an airconditioned lounge bar with an expansive glass wall allowing uninterrupted views across the water, Cin Cin by the Sea offers an innovative restaurant experience for those seeking an informal approach to luxury.

“Open just three years, the establishment has built itself a strong reputation during this time for quality and excellence.”

Open just three years, the establishment has built itself a strong reputation during this time for quality and excellence, offering a wide range of succulent dishes which are expertly prepared, as well as an extraordinary wine list which circles the globe and covers the entire spectrum of the very finest wines.

Service is both professional and relaxed, with the restaurant’s professional and supportive team constantly on hand to ensure that guests have a pleasurable experience, whether they are there for a meal, celebration or event.

Lunch and dinner can be provided by Cin Cin by the Sea, which takes its name from the notion of saying ‘Chin Chin’ as a toast- this relaxed and friendly gesture is the inspiration for the establishment’s friendly and peaceful ambiance.

The décor features a blue and white theme to evoke memories of seaside retreats, whilst the panoramic views of the beach give diners the chance to enjoy a beachfront experience in the comfort of a luxury restaurant.

Drawing on the sumptuous natural beauty of the restaurant’s setting, both the lunch and dinner menus feature copious fresh seafood and fresh Mediterranean flavours, with traditional favourites such as the restaurant’s Spanish Omelette and beef carpaccio accompanied by dishes with innovative twists, such as the pan-fried gnocchi served with jerk pork, sweet pea puree and caramelized onions.

Other renowned dishes include the Cin Cin bouillabaisse, which features aromatic tomato fish broth with lobster, shrimp, mussels, seasonal fish and aioli, providing a flavourful and rich meal, or for a lighter meal the dinner menu boasts the seared fresh lochfyne scallops on Israeli couscous with caponata and lemon tarragon butter. For those seeking a heartier meal, Cin Cin by the Sea offers the filling and rich braised short rib on a leek and roasted garlic potato puree, spinach, caramelized onions with a sticky jus, as well as the enticing panroasted 10oz veal chop with a mushroom madeira sauce, fritto potatoes and refreshing green beans.

Alongside this, a three course a la carte menu is offered as well as a bar bites menu that can be enjoyed in the lounge or at the bar. A smaller express menu is available for those seeking a light bite in the middle of the day. Children are welcomed at the premises and the dress code is described as ‘Elegantly Informal’, allowing guests to indulge in their beachside fashions whilst maintaining the decorum and relaxed atmosphere which the restaurant prides itself on.

Ultimately, Cin Cin by the Sea offers the perfect Caribbean retreat for those seeking exquisite food, impeccable service and wondrous natural surroundings.

To find out more please visit the restaurant’s website, https://www.cincinbythesea.com/ or call (246) 629 4557 to make a reservation.

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www.copasturkeys.co.uk 01628 499980 Wild Card Phillipa Hill / Ellie Ashdown, philippa.hill@wildcard.co.uk / ellie.ashdown@wildcard.co.uk 01872 243 560

Every year, since 1957, the Copas family has dedicated their lives to one very, very special goal; rearing the finest flock of free range, 14-day game-hung artisan turkeys in the UK, just for Christmas.

With a focus on ethical farming and a proud heritage in traditional production methods, Copas Traditional Turkeys are truly farm to table. Sourced from the best independent British hatcheries these pampered birds are matured to 26 weeks - three times as long as most - and free to roam through rolling meadows and ancient Cherry Orchards in the Cookham countryside, foraging at their leisure.

The story of how Copas Traditional Turkeys came to life is a typically British one. In 1957, Tom Copas Senior was just eighteen years old and in need of a project to keep him out of mischief, he found the answer in a gift of 153 turkeys from his father.

A hobby soon turned into a small business which in turn became Copas Traditional Turkeys – since then, Tom has been producing over 30,000 very, very special Christmas turkeys each year. The true testimony of this hobby-cum-profession was observed when Tom Copas Senior was awarded the prestigious Life-Time Achievement Award at the British Turkey Awards 2013.

Today, it is Tom’s children who take the driving seat at the family business, though Tom Senior is always somewhere on the farm, still causing mischief.

Tom Copas Junior reached out to comment on the immense heritage that he has inherited, and on the continuing future of the Copas family business. ““Christmas dinner is such a special event – more of a ceremony than simple meal – and it is a real privilege to be producing something that is the centre piece of dining tables all over the country.

The Very Best Turkeys, for the Very Best Christmas

The Very Best Turkeys, for the Very Best Christmas

“My father has been here at King’s Coppice farm, rearing turkeys for nearly six decades – that’s an awful lot of experience! He’s passed all that knowledge onto my siblings and I, and we’re still driven by the same values and traditional methods.

“We are very proud of our heritage, our great team that care passionately about the flock, and the incredible taste and quality of the of the turkeys we sell.

“As the company has grown, we’ve been delighted to have the support of some of the biggest names in food including London’s top Michelin starred restaurants, outlets such as Selfridges and Harvey Nichols, the latter of whom we’ve teamed up for a click-and-collect service this year, as well as customers from all over the world who buy from us direct every Christmas.”

develop a lovely layer of fat, which combined with a contented lifestyle leads to an exceptional flavour.

These Free Range Bronze & Free Range Organic turkeys roam outdoors for 80% of their lives, which is longer than the vast majority of other free range turkeys in the UK – this bears evidence to the The turkeys are then game-hung to mature for up to 14 days – again, this is twice as long as most other turkeys, which allows plenty of time for the natural enzymes in the bird to bring out the flavour of the turkey and tenderise the meat before being hand-plucked. These traditional methods produce the unbeatable flavours and smooth texture of over 30,000 Christmas feasts.

After dedicating six decades to the festive season, the Copas family knows a thing or two about preparing for Christmas. Their award winning accompaniments range, developed in the family kitchen, perfectly complements the delicious turkeys making for an altogether perfect Christmas feast.

Some of Copas Turkeys’ recommended accompaniments include: o Cranberry sauce with a hint of rosemary o Granny’s Chutney with green tomatoes o Coronation sauce with apricots o Traditional gravy with cracked black pepper o Sage and onion stuffing with red onion o British goose fat from free-range geese o NEW Bread Sauce with Chives & Croutons All of this culminates in Copas Turkeys exceeding the standards set by the TFTA (Traditional Farmfresh Turkey Association) and many other assurance schemes operating in the industry.

Copas Traditional Turkeys arrive beautifully packaged in a box with a pop-up timer, family recipe cards, sprig of rosemary and prepared giblets. The range includes whole turkeys (4kg to 10kg), turkey crowns, turkey breast, chickens, and a range of accompaniments including ready-made Luxury Traditional Gravy, Bread Sauce, Cranberry, Chutney, Coronation Sauce and Sage & Onion Stuffing.

Copas Turkeys are available from Harvey Nichols, Selfridges, Britain’s best butchers, independent food retailers nationwide, and online at www.copasturkeys. co.uk from £60, plus delivery.

Under the caring and watchful eye of Kes, the Copas Turkey dog, 30,000 turkeys are reared at the Copas family’s farm and include up to 25 different traditional British varieties. The flocks have plenty of time to

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Macdonald Bear Hotel is one of the finest Four-Star hotels in Oxfordshire. Set in Woodstock, in what was once a 13th century coaching inn, our hotel offers the best of breathtaking scenery and fine facilities.

With direct access to the historic city of Oxford, our hotel is a popular choice for family holidays, business and weddings.

• Historic country house charm • Majestic 13th century coaching inn • Picturesque village location • 54 individually-styled bedrooms • Golf courses nearby • Meeting and conference facilities • Free Wifi Powered by The Cloud • Luxury wedding packages • Award-winning restaurant onsite

Park Street, Woodstock, Oxfordshire, OX20 ISZ Tel: 0344 879 9143

www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk

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The Pioneer of E-Commerce Solutions

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CEO of the Year, California

The Pioneer of E-Commerce Solutions

With a presence felt across a wide range of industries, from customer support, to product development, to IT, Doctor Andy Khawaja of Allied Wallet represents a centrepiece role as a hub figure; indeed, as a top CEO of the Year, he is fixated on delivering the highest quality services to his clients, and on achieving a market-leading status within the field of e-commerce. Having already achieved major market penetration in local economies around the globe, from China to Germany, Dr. Khawaja now sets his sights upon newer opportunities.

Doctor Khawaja is a very hands-on leader. Being responsible as the CEO for a company like Allied Wallet certainly demands a certain level of tenacity and devotion, and Andy delivers these attributes through his willingness and determination to know every single thing that goes on in every sector of the company. He stresses that this is an easy task for him, in no small part, due to the free and open nature of the workplace that he oversees.

“Most days are like a walk in the park,” Dr. Khawaja describes. “I can come to work knowing that my team will be getting on, and given the way that we are expanding currently, they will be rewarded for doing so. It is essential for them to feel that they have the freedom to be innovative, because in my experience that is what breeds innovation to begin with. That will give them the hope and the credibility to feel that the product is really something tangible, and not just something that they are selling on behalf of someone else.”

“ I can come to work knowing that my team will be getting on, and given the way that we are expanding currently, they will be rewarded for doing so.”

Having been in this position for 14 years since 2002, Dr. Khawaja has seen his fair share of challenges when building up the company to having worked with and feature in a number of prominent American institutions, including TIME Magazine, CNN, Forbes’, The Wall Street Journal and Bloomberg.

These institutions, representing the media, are among the most flexible, and therefore more willing and able to make the transfer to e-commerce. The construction industry, meanwhile, as stated above, is a significantly harder nut to crack. Rather than focussing on those potential hurdles, however, Dr. Khawaja always finds himself focussing his efforts on the light at the end of the tunnel.

This leads Dr. Khawaja to reflect upon his own qualities as a business leader and CEO. Citing his own career milestones as evidence for the importance of adopting such a tenacious pursuit of technology. From his relatively humble background, he has come to define his success as the result

of a combination of hard work, dedication and understanding. Citing his travels across the world, from the USA to Japan, he draws influence and aspiration from the wider fintech industry, and applies its best practices to Allied Wallet.

“I have a global reach as far as financial technology is concerned,” he states outright. “I gain pleasure from being able to highlight the most cutting-edge aspects of the technology that’s out there, and then handing it over to my developers and coders and working closely with them on taking Allied Wallet’s services to the next level.”

Allied Wallet, under Dr. Khawaja’s mentorship, has grown to foster an educational work culture, which is a particular source of pride for the CEO. “It’s a culture of respect and friendship, where we understand that working as a part of a team means to take care of one another. We are a creative lot – we are friendly and supportive to everyone that we work alongside here, across all levels of the organisation, but the same time we expect our people to get the job done. Of course, we do have our company rules and regulations in place, but so long as our team members respect and do not abuse them, they find life here at Allied Wallet to be a walk in the park.

“By working smart, and by participating actively in moving the company forward, you are ahead of the game, and you have the opportunity to share in that. For instance, our people benefit from awards schemes that we have set in place: from awards cards and free lunches to cash bonuses and trips away.”

Channelling this passion and belief in his company’s many virtues towards future goals and aspirations, Dr. Khawaja uncovers a single-minded tract down which to take Allied Wallet as it continues its expansive growth across the fintech industry. “We want to make the future easier for the next generation to make the most of, and that starts with e-commerce.

All of this has had a remarkable effect on Dr. Khawaja’s outlook on not just his work as an entrepreneur, but also on his life ethos. “Life isn’t going to be easy on you,” he states, “so you need to be able to get back up when it knocks you down. The harder you work, the more obstacles you are going to encounter, but if you stick to your goals and keep forging on, you can be assured that things are going to be a lot easier further down the line.

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lux “Just look at my history – when founding Allied Wallet, I was roundly dismissed by a lot of industry professionals that looked at my business ideas and scoffed – there’s no future in e-commerce, they would say; it’s not a profession that’s going to be conducive to an honest, worthwhile living. But looking at us now, we have a global presence, we are helping thousands upon thousands of clients make their digital payment solutions easier than ever before, and it all started from such small origins.

Allied Wallet certainly did make an effort to hit the ground running. Dr. Khawaja differentiates his company’s origins from that of other fintech services – PayPal, for instance, began as an alternative form of payment over eBay.com. Dr. Khawaja, when founding Allied Wallet and tapping into the challenging world of B2B, chose to cast a wider net.

“We went in hard,” he recollects. “We wanted to establish ourselves globally, taking advantage of just how easy technology at the time had allowed that to happen; within our first 12 months, we had serviced clients in 58 countries around the world, after eight years this grew to about 67 countries. We had the means of communication, and we had the drive to go out there and seek our customers; furthermore, we had the relationships established in international industries. The rest writes itself.”

“ We are, ultimately, in the business of caring for people, as well as their businesses.

It is their support and their custom that contributes to the growth and continuous movement of Allied Wallet, so we take it very personally when we get involved with the customer and assist them to the best of our abilities; I would even go so far as to say that we treat their business as our own.”

The Pioneer of E-Commerce Solutions

“This works on a number of levels, not least of all because the newer generation tends to communicate more through electronic means – emails, instant messaging and online chat services. That is all well and good, and it clearly shows the direction in which communication is moving nowadays, but we believe that communication needs to have a voice to it – especially when you are talking with a member of a large company. Allied Wallet prefers a much more down-to-earth, personal touch with its customers.

Allied Wallet’s company values remain strongly devoted to its customers, and to further extending its personal client communication services to a broadening spectrum of professional industries across the globe. Remaining so robust in these principles, believes Dr. Khawaja, is what has put Allied Wallet way ahead of the curve, setting the example for those that follow in the company’s wake.

“This is why I, as CEO, have been called ‘The Messiah of E-Commerce,” he says.

“Don’t be mistaken – success can take years, and it certainly won’t happen overnight. If you plant a seed one night, you’re not going to wake up the following morning to find that it has grown into a tree coming into fruit.” Dr. Khawaja believes that this philosophy is also true of the construction industry. “It’s same principle when you start a business – especially in such a competitive market as construction: you have to stick with it, have patience, take care of it, and not lose sight of the endgame.”

“Don’t give up. Be yourself, work hard, be persistent, and above all have hope.”

Company: Allied Wallet Website: www.alliedwallet.com

While the company today maintains a cutting-edge discipline when it comes to making use of the most modern technology, their approach to dealing with customers, as Dr. Khawaja describes, is distinctly old-school. “Rather than relying on voicemails to take messages from clients with a promise to get back to them at the earliest convenient moment, we will take the time that is needed to answer the call, listen to the clients directly and answer their queries, whatever they may be. This is something that Allied Wallet pay especially close attention to that others in the industry do not do.

“We are, ultimately, in the business of caring for people, as well as their businesses. It is their support and their custom that contributes to the growth and continuous movement of Allied Wallet, so we take it very personally when we get involved with the customer and assist them to the best of our abilities; I would even go so far as to say that we treat their business as our own.

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Major New Lifestyle, HiFi, Portable Audio & Home Entertainment Show Arrives in Capital

Major New Lifestyle, HiFi, Portable Audio & Home Entertainment Show Arrives in Capital A new indulgent show taking place between 14-16 October at the Novotel Conference Centre in Hammersmith brought a full lifestyle and musical experience to London in 2016 for the first time. The Indulgence Show was designed to appeal to discerning consumers with high disposable income who like to pamper themselves with high quality luxury products and aims to target those that wanted to indulge in new experiences such as audio, home entertainment and portable audio brands.

The Indulgence Show featured three distinct areas – ‘Pure Pleasure’, ‘Audio London’ and ‘headroom™’.

Pure Pleasure indulged the audience’s varied passions for high quality luxury goods such as watches, cars, motorised and recreational vehicles, wines, spirits, craft beer, hand-made chocolates and much more. Audio London presented a wide range of hi-fi, audio and home entertainment solutions, and headroom™ showcased the largest range of headphones and portable audio in the UK. 90 brands from the hi-fi, home entertainment and technology sectors were able to snap up exclusive space to showcase their latest product ranges, services and experiences to the thousands of customers and tech-savvy enthusiasts coming through the show’s doors. Brands that signed up and gained prominent exposure through the event include Bowers and Wilkins, Onkyo, Audioquest and Sennheiser, PMC. The event is being supported with a £200,000 national advertising, PR and marketing campaign designed to promote the show to a local and national audience across print, digital, outdoor and broadcast platforms. It is anticipated to attract consumers with high household income who live in and around the wealthy London boroughs and affluent neighbouring counties as well as hi-fi enthusiasts from far afield.

Vernon Hamblin, The Indulgence Show organiser, says, “we have consistently heard from the hi-fi industry over recent years that it wanted a hifi show for London and The Home Counties. When we organised the inaugural ‘headroom™’ headphones and portable audio show two years ago, it was always the grand plan to expand it into a full audio and lifestyle show for London, and the time is now right to take the next step. This new event will allow us, as an industry, to reach out to hi-fi enthusiasts with ‘Audio London’, expand the ‘headroom™’ event beyond its initial unparalleled success, and encompass a lifestyle section, ‘Pure Pleasure’, that will appeal to a wider affluent audience.”

Phil Wannell, a fellow organiser of The Indulgence Show, adds, “We know that there is a growing target audience that is happy to indulge in higher quality headphones and portable audio. We want to show them that there is a progression to high quality home hi-fi and that it can be just as much of an indulgence, bringing the same amount of pleasure as their portable audio systems and enhancing their wellbeing further. We want to introduce consumers to brands and products that they may currently be unaware of, while exposing them to other complementary sectors that will excite all their emotions and allow them to enjoy a weekend spoiling themselves.”

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The UK Independent Hotel Sector Today

Chewton Glen

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The UK Independent Hotel Sector Today

The Independent Hotel Show, which took place on the 18th-19th October at Olympia, presented the key highlights of today’s UK Independent Hotel Sector, taken from specially-commissioned research conducted by Melvin Gold Consulting Ltd., a specialist hotel industry advisory firm seeking to work with those that are active, or seeking to become active, in the hotel sector. Working from a strong research base the company is typically involved in financial and strategic roles within the hotel sector.

Defining the Sector Based on analysis the report concludes there are currently some 38,604 independent hotels (including those in consortia) with 409,913 rooms in the UK at the end of 2015. This amounts to 54.9% of total UK Serviced Accommodation according to Melvin Gold Consulting. As well as defining the size of the Independent Hotel Sector the report focuses on key issues for the segment, the changing needs of guests and encompasses some best practice examples from independent hoteliers.

The report defines five critical differentiating factors for today’s independent hotel: individuality, locality, freedom, personality and innovation. It should prove invaluable for the country’s independent hoteliers, both currently in the sector or those considering entering it or expanding. Topics range from technology and staffing, to financing and marketing, and are accompanied by pragmatic suggestions and expert insight from independent hoteliers.

Independent Hotel Show director Miranda Martin says, “this year we wanted to bring the industry a report that would help to clarify the landscape of the sector and to provide a snapshot to those outside of the industry who are perhaps considering a life in hotels or investing in the sector. Commissioning Melvin has enabled us to provide even more insight to the independent hotel sector and to support the continued values of the show to bring information and opportunity to the industry.”

Sector Influence The Independent Hotel Sector has rarely been more influential, largely due to its flair for innovation. A prime example is the sector’s role in the regeneration of coastal tourism. Whilst British seaside resorts may not always guarantee a traditional bucket and spade summer holiday, there is a growing - and less seasonal - demand for modern boutique and lifestyle hotels by the sea. Guests are aspirational and seek authenticity, quality food and beverage, spas, local culture and quirky attractions. Trends that have supported the development of these coastal hotels include staycations, growth of the short break market and the trend toward multiple breaks during the year.

A similar trend is evident in inland towns and cities throughout the country.

The 21st-Century Guest Comprising more than half of the serviced accommodation rooms in the UK, the Independent Hotel sector continues to thrive in an everincreasing competitive environment. As the needs

of the 21st-Century guests evolve, independent hoteliers strive successfully to satisfy constantly changing requirements and higher expectations.

Quality, cleanliness and good service are minimum standards, food and beverage play a much bigger part in the hotel offering, and with management typically coming into closer contact with guests (compared with a chain), independent hoteliers can react quickly and deliver tailor-made experiences.

Justin Salisbury, Artist Residence, says, “ultimately our industry is catering towards what people want especially when it comes to trends and tech.”

Consortia Given the wider trend towards hotel brands, some independent hotels are recognising the benefits of joining consortia, especially in terms of marketing and distribution. In the UK, there are 555 independent hotels (29,365 rooms) that are part of consortia, such as Best Western, Pride of Britain and Relais & Chateaux. Some independent hotels have joined ‘collections’ established by major brands but many continue to stand alone, either through choice or because they do not fit the criteria to affiliate, in terms of size, location or design.

The Power of Brands It cannot be ignored that some independent hotels have been unable to survive due to the marketing power of brands and online travel agencies, but also due to lack of investment and falling behind the requirements of their guests. Almost 45,000 UK hotel rooms have closed since 2001. However, Melvin Gold Consulting notes that some that have closed have reopened under new ownership, and investment has allowed them to re-emerge as hotels better suited to the 21st-Century traveller. While the hotel sector is undoubtedly becoming more branded, within the Independent segment it is the strongest that survive and thrive. Standing still is simply not an option as the closures serve to emphasise, but the report, including the hoteliers that have contributed to it, provide practical illustrations of the good practice that now emanates from this tier of the market.

The Changing Face of Luxury The changing face of luxury is discussed in the report by Peter Hancock, Chief Executive of Pride of Britain Hotels, who highlights that independent hotel guests aren’t necessarily looking for out-andout five-star luxury hotels and formality. He refers to Chewton Glen, where some wealthy families opt to occupy giant tree houses instead of the main suites, and Lucknam Park, where the modern Brasserie is

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The UK Independent Hotel Sector Today

as popular as the Michelin-starred Park Restaurant.

Peter Hancock says: “A new breed of expensive hotels for a new breed of customer is evolving, inspired by innovative hoteliers like Robin Hutson, Nick Jones, Richard Ball and others...what Richard Ball calls ‘pared back luxury’ appeals to a growing number of guests who can afford anything but don’t always want to conform to tradition.”

Technology Technology represents one of the most significant shifts across the entire hotel sector, from how bedrooms are purchased, to how guests are influenced to buy them. To the independent hotelier, the Internet is an opportunity but one that takes some getting used to in order to optimise benefits. The revenue of an independent hotel can take a huge hit from high commission rates of OTAs, yet can secure a loyal customer base. And by expertly marketing to customers online, via social media, an engaging website, targeted email communications and responding skilfully to online reviews, an independent hotelier can increase visibility, make noise about quality and create a buzz within the local community.

Local Community and Taking the Lead The importance of a local presence coupled with effective social media activity cannot be underestimated for the independent hotel.

Establishing relationships with local suppliers, offering lunch or supper clubs for locals, telling quirky stories about the locality and actively supporting local charities, are some of the ways that independent hotels are being recognised at local, then county and even national level.

David Timmis, managing director of Aubrey Park, says, “making sure Aubrey Park is top of mind is a constant focus so whatever is trending we find a link.

It didn’t take us long to capture our 78th Pokémon at Aubrey Park, many were very rare and of course, we shared it with our followers.”

Ian Taylor, Director, The Abbey Hotel, Bath, also strongly advocates working with the local community because it is where independent hoteliers can truly differentiate themselves from the branded chains. He also observes that hotel brands want to be perceived by guests as more individual and design-led to compete with the independents. He says: “It is easier for an independent hotelier to innovate and make changes and I see a great opportunity to take the lead in doing things differently which will benefit or enhance guest experiences with us.”

Custard Communications Verity Lethbridge / Mika Bishop verity@custardcommunications.com / mika@custardcommunications.com http://custardcommunications.com/ 01483 740747

Financing Financing is a hot topic. Whilst a chain might ostensibly have better access to finance than an individual owner, it is false to assume that individual owners cannot secure investment. Andrew Taylor, Head of Leisure at NatWest/RBS, emphasises how the bank works through relationship managers who specialise in the hotels to build rapport and understanding with the sector. A proven track record, solid business plan, stability of earnings and clear positioning are all factors that are considered.

He says: “The hotel sector remains dynamic and attractive from a bank perspective and we are very much open for business to independent and branded operators alike.”

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“Make the Moment Matter”: Hotelbeds Group and What Now Travel Announce Revolutionary Partnership

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“Make the Moment Matter”: Hotelbeds Group and What Now Travel Announce Revolutionary Partnership

In a move to revolutionise the purchase funnel for the in-destination tourism industry, Hotelbeds Group has joined forces with pioneering tech start up What Now Travel, which powers The London Official City Guide App and is set to launch their own dedicated app, to introduce a whole new stream of revenue for the travel industry by providing a new purchasing tool for consumers travelling to a tourism destination.

Hotelbeds Group is a global provider of travel services active in more than 120 markets worldwide distributing products from more than 185 countries.

Its businesses provide hotel accommodation, transfers, excursions, tours, incoming services, meeting and incentives, visa outsourcing and cruise handling services to the global travel trade.

What Now Travel has powered the London Official City Guide app in conjunction with VisitLondon - the tourism board and part of mayor’s office – since early 2014. The What Now?! app’s innovative technology simulates a “live” smartphone experience even when offline – to allow travellers abroad to enjoy their smartphones like they do when back home.

Currently based in London’s Tech City, they work with Hotelbeds Group to deliver an innovative platform to hotels and tour/attraction providers.

Previously showcased by Techcrunch as one of their top startups at their Disrupt Conference in Berlin, 2013; by PhoCusWright as one of their top travel innovations at the Travel Innovation Summit in Florida, 2013; and shortlisted by the UKTI’s Smart UK Project as one of the UK’s most innovative mobile companies. They are now launching their own What Now?! branded app in market too. Learn more at www.whatnowtravel.com Headquartered in Palma de Mallorca, Hotelbeds Group comprises of four key business units: Bedbank, Transfer and Activity Bank, Destination Management and New Ventures, featuring leading brands such as Hotelbeds, Bedsonline, Destination Services and Intercruises.

The innovative partnership will see Hotelbeds Group and What Now Travel leverage consumer micromoments and convert these into sales through a wide variety of touchpoints over the travel lifecycle.

Paul Anthony, managing director of the Transfer and Activity Bank (TAB) division of Hotelbeds Group said, “Benefiting from the large product portfolio of Hotelbeds, the What Now?! app also aims to enhance ‘in-hotel’ distribution, adding value to the traveller experience by helping tourists to discover London and buy same day tickets at the last minute. The formation of this new partnership between Hotelbeds Group and What Now Travel will offer the tourism industry a new avenue to generate income whilst enhancing consumer travel experiences through smartphone technology.”

Along with electronic ticket redemption, which will allow users to make same day bookings and eliminate the need for paper tickets, the partnership will

enable users to purchase seven-day flexi attraction tickets through API connections to Hotelbeds Group portfolio of more than 11,000 activities, which will be embedded into the What Now?! app.

It is through these API connections that hotels, airlines, tour attraction providers, travel agents, and other tourism industry partners will now be able to generate revenue through commissions earnt by purchases through the What Now?! app, whilst simultaneously adding value to the customer travel experience.

Tony Sandler, CEO and founder of What Now Travel said, “Customer travel experience does not end at booking a flight, hotel room or holiday. We have set out to develop a platform that will allow continuous revenue opportunities for all travel brands which goes beyond the initial point of sale. We are excited to start this new venture with Hotelbeds Group to push the boundaries of how the travel industry can interact with consumers.”

The What Now?! app will allow users to get inspired and plan roughly what to do that day and book tickets through complimentary hotel Wi-Fi and download relevant information from trusted sources all in one place. Once out exploring a city, the What Now?! app will use a combination of GPS and low usage memory to simulate a live smart phone experience - while data roaming is switched off - enabling consumers to change plans and find restaurants, bars, galleries and other local attractions based on their current mood, the weather, time of day etc.

With the announcement of this new partnership, the travel industry has the opportunity to make the moment matter, enhancing customer travel experiences through the latest technological developments.

Becky Wickerson PR Account Executive Hills Balfour Limited, 58 Southwark Bridge Road, London, SE1 0AS Main: +44 (0) 20 7593 1700 Direct: +44 (0) 20 7593 1749 Fax: +44 (0) 20 7022 8662 beckyw@hillsbalfour.com @HillsBalfour www.hillsbalfour.com

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An Intoxicating Night on Mayfair by Davy’s

An Intoxicating Night on Mayfair

by Davy’s On the night of the 29th September, the Burlington Arcade officially rung in the colder season with a truly Mayfair evening, featuring a Davy’s Wine Merchants tasting and preview of the full N. Peal Autumn/Winter 2016 range.

Guests mingled in the historic shop location at the end of the famed Burlington Arcade, where the shop has been since Nat Peal first opened its doors in 1936. Davy’s Wine Merchants greeted guests with a glass of English sparkling wine, Hoffman and Rathbone. Most guests had not heard of an English Sparkling wine beyond Nyetimber and Gusborne, and were delighted at the taste and the subtle nod to English-made luxury. Wines by the glass included a delightful Chateau du Moulin Rouge 2010, Haut Medic, Bordeaux, a mooth and oaky Pouilly Fuisse Aux Chailloux 2103, Domaine Seve, Burgundy and a fruity Valserrano Rioja Reserva 2011, Rioja, Spain.

A visit to N. Peal’s flagship store is perhaps the best way to experience the brand’s sense of simultaneity, of heritage reinvented. It sits in Mayfair’s Burlington Arcade, an esteemed runway of luxury boutiques that connects Piccadilly with Burlington Gardens. The shop’s styling is a distinct nod to Art Deco style, a movement that celebrated what was at once luxurious and progressive. Yet it is also distinctly modern, meaning that the store not only captures the spirit of N. Peal’s 1930’s heritage, but is a re-imagining of that classic style, and thus a perfect encapsulation of the N. Peal brand as it is today.

The ultimate destination for unrivalled Mongolian cashmere and fur, the British owned brand layers up for the colder months in a spectrum of colours, some familiar, some foreign. Observing the collection as a whole however, we saw a common thread, one of London lifestyle, urban buzz, a cosmopolitan combination of warmth, creativity and glamour.

Sara Berman, Creative Director of N. Peal, picks a dusty pink for the first colour story of the women’s range. “Pink is traditionally a summer colour, so I enjoyed the challenge of adopting it to a winter line.”

A resounding success, this particular hue has hints of grey, a muted tone that is subtle but by no means less eye-catching. Paired with white or cream, the

result is natural and feminine, but with darker colours could create more of a statement.

In a similar vein, there is a mint green story, featuring an astrakhan and mink fur coat whose texture adds a unique pattern to the piece. Again a muted shade and the iciness of the blue/green makes for a striking style.

Adding a twist to the range is the emerald story, which veers away from the muted and dives deep into a rich forest green. A divine cut mink gilet and diagonal rib cardicoat have pattern and diversity, whilst another statement piece, the dark green raccoon coat, is the most playful of them all and will surely win over the fashionistas this season.

The Men’s range is all about jewel tones for autumn.

Berman has not held back in creating a rich and textured collection of jumpers, cardigans, gilets and coats, one more opulent than the next. A rabbit lined overcoat with bold stitching and leather piping tops the list. The line is fashion-conscious and trend aware, but does not forget tradition and versatility.

From super fine to chunky knit, most of the pieces can be layered up. As the fastest growing product range in the company, the men’s line has forged its own path and become a collection of distinction.

“As N. Peal celebrated its 80th anniversary this year, we wanted this season to be about heritage and N. Peal’s identity as a London brand. Our customer is engaged, creative and curious, and navigates the city with purpose and style,” explains MD and owner Adam Holdsworth.

“We are confident this sense of spirit is emulated in the Autumn/Winter 2016 range. We were also thrilled to have Davy’s join us this evening, who are a historic fixture in our neighbourhood, and create a lovely atmosphere celebrating heritage and luxury.”

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Friarwood: Wines Worth Discovering The market for luxury wine is forever growing, diversifying, nurturing. In the last few years, enthusiasts have begun to discover new flavours and scents coming from up-and-coming wine exporters like Australia and Canada, whilst also remaining firmly entrenched in their fondness for wines from the Tuscan countryside and the Rhone valley in the South of France. Such a market requires a robust network of wine merchants, and in this key area of the wine industry, Friarwood stands out from the rest; with its strong wholesale and retail presence, in the last year its face-lift and change of ownership have made this independent wine merchant a viable force to bear in mind for the future. As the autumn months begin to make a shuffling turn into winter, LUX Magazine was privileged enough to review but a mere few of the vintages offered by Friarwood, each with their own distinct flavours and unique stories.

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lux Gilles Flacher, Condrieu les Rouelles, 2013 In the northern Rhone valley, the Flacher family have been making wine in Charnes for over 200 years now – since 1806. Gilles is now the manager of an estate of seven hectares, mainly situated around SaintJoseph AOC. For the last ten years, he has been on a mission to modernise his domain.

Situated in and around the commune of Charnes, a midway point between Lyon and Valence, the western banks of the Rhone lend their sustenance to the Gilles Flacher vineyards – a lot of them are set on terraces that make mechanisation difficult, if not near impossible. Thus, most of the work still gets done by hand.

The results of these efforts are yielded in the 2013 Condrieu les Rouelles. The wines of Gilles Flacher are of a uniform, single-vineyard production, constituted of 100 per cent Viognier grape, but the devil is in the detail. The granite terroir gives sustenance to the vines growing upon it, and these are matured over a course of 20 years, before being barrelled away in 60 per cent new oak. This treatment lends an uncommon clarity to a wine that has had to thrive under already unusual circumstances, to reach a flavour-filled result that ignites the palate.

A supple, generous, and floral bouquet is what is presented upon first tasting the vintage. The palate starts with attractive freshness, a true mineral nature to it. Light traces of oak, not in excess, punctuate the peach flavour with a militarily precise punctuality, before finishing without hesitation on a refreshing aftertaste that neither bears too much weight, nor pulls its punches.

The crème patisserie, vanilla, and honeycomb airs show though quite clearly here, making the Condrieu les Rouelles a clear companion for cold seafood like shrimp and lobster, foie gras, poultry dishes, and unpasteurised cheeses.

Conti di San Bonifacio, Sustinet, 2010 – I.G.T. Maremma Toscana Speak of Tuscan wines, and enthusiasts will tell tales of the rolling hills surrounding Monteriggioni, of The days of the unscrupulous mercenary lords known as the condotierri may have long gone, but the owners of the vineyards of Tuscany still possess the same dogged tenacity and dominion over their landscape. This serves them well, as it has yielded, harvest upon harvest, some of the world’s most renowned vintage wines.

Friarwood Fine Wines, Ltd. 020 7736 2628 26 New Kings Road, London, SW6 4ST www.friarwood.com info@friarwood.com

The estate of Conti di San Bonifacio is one such empire in the making. The estate, which operates as a hotel and restaurant, was purchased by Count Mandredo and his English wife Sarah, Countess do San Bonifacio, in 2002. In fact, through his grandmother, Count Manfredo is a descendant of the famous exiled Florentine poet Dante Alighieri, and grew up in his beautiful historic home in Verona. It is something of a homecoming for the Count, then, to preside over his seven fully organic hectares and produce wines from the finest clones, the first of which were planted in 2004.

The devotion of Count Manfredo and Sarah to the terroir, and the work of their team, have given birth

Friarwood: Wines Worth Discovering

to a trio of formidable red wines – one of which is Sustinet.

Steeped in family tradition, discipline and plain hard work, this pure Syrah wine is, to say the least, intriguing. Presented in the bottle, it appears simple, plain, yet formidably solid, weighty, seductive. In the glass, the fruit hits the nostrils in frantic waves. To taste, though, the fruit is subtler, allowing dark, spicy flavours to emerge. Wisps of vanilla and harmonious tannins echo in the descants, and the density of the palate provided by the dark cherries form the bass notes. All of this comes together in an ultimately smooth experience that leaves the drinker’s palate adequately quenched, so much so that is in danger of being spoilt rotten.

As with any red wine worthy of its label, the Sustinet is ideally suited alongside red meats. With lamb or game, as well as beef ribeye and other barbequed meats, its full body and earthy tones are a perfect match. When paired with beef or chicken stew, it positively shines.

Benjamin Bridge, Brue Reserve, 2008 Established in the Gaspereau Valley of Nova Scotia on Canada’s east coast, the Benjamin Bridge winery offers classic sparkling wine and produced its first cuvees in 2002. The unique growing climate in the heart of the Valley is moderated by the powerful Bay of Fundy, home to the world’s highest tides, while its maritime climate promotes natural acidities and long ‘hangtime’, which are critical to producing sparkling wines of complexity and finesse as well as aromatic wines. Through their newfound partnership with Friarwood, they hope that their vintages, including the 2008 Brut Reserve Sparkling, will make a large impact on the UK sparkling wine market.

In the 2008 Brut Reserve, these desires have every prospect of coming true. It is immediately evident, upon noticing its vibrant yellow-gold gleam in the glass, that the legacy of the late champagne oenologist Raphael Brisbois lives on through this sparkling wine. Expert blending comes to the forefront, through a balance between chardonnay and pinot noir grape that favours the former, but lacks none of the latter’s enticing rich finish. On the nose, suggestions of lemon rind and minerals abound; on the palate, meanwhile, vibrant and expressive notes of sweet Devonshire cream and baked green apples leap out, arresting. The finesse and creaminess of the wine’s effervescence is both mouth-coating and persistent throughout. What’s more, this wine boasts excellent potential for aging – at least 20 years’ worth, in fact.

In little more than a decade, Benjamin Bridge has distinguished itself by its dedication to time-proven techniques, expert guidance, and its acclaimed wines above all. The Brut Reserve 2008, having already acclaimed his highest ever ratings in tasting trials, vintage underpins the attention that Brisbois, who died in 2013, poured into his work.

Throughout November and December Friarwood will also be hosting walk-in tasting events every Saturday, where they’ll display their best winter wines. These three vintages would be welcome additions to that line-up, and indeed would be considered essential additions to any household wine-rack or cellar.

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The History and Heritage of Martell Jordan King Assistant Account Executive Lexis 75 Bermondsey Street, London, SE1 3XF DL: +44 (0) 20 7908 6430

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The History and Heritage of Martell

This autumn, Martell Cognac is proud to be adding to its iconic collection with the launch of Martell Cordon Bleu Intense Heat Cask Finish. Made from the same emblematic blend as Martell Cordon Bleu (originally created by the House of Martell in 1912), Martell Cordon Bleu Intense Heat is a fascinating result of alchemy, combining wood and heat to make a distinctive cognac never seen before. Created with a combination of craftsmanship, curiosity and pioneering spirit, the resulting blend enjoys an aromatic character and unsuspected cask finish.

Martell, the oldest of the great cognac houses, was founded by Jean Martell in 1715 at the height of French art de vivre, when gastronomy, taste and craftsmanship were celebrated and enjoyed with style. These became the three pillars of the House of Martell and remain intrinsic to the Martell vision today.

Since 1715, Martell has produced, exported and marketed cognacs which are recognised worldwide for their outstanding quality and finesse, obtained through double distillation of exclusively clear wines and ageing in fine-grained oak casks.

Martell has enjoyed a rich history honouring craft and taste, from appearing at the coronation of King George V in 1919, to being served at the wedding of Prince Rainier of Monaco and Grace Kelly, accompanying explorer Paul-Emile Victor on a polar expedition in 1951 and even appearing Francis Ford Coppola’s Apocalypse Now. This limited edition cognac sees the iconic blend complete its ageing in casks subjected to intense heat, known as “chauffe crocodile”, which uses a flame to “burn” the inside of the oak casks and release woody aromas as the eaux-de-vie interacts with the barrels.

Christophe Valtaud, Cellar Master at House of Martell said, “we’re delighted to launch Cordon Bleu Intense Heat and for cognac lovers to enjoy a unique update on the very popular Martell Cordon Bleu.

The impact of the “chauffe crocodile” technique is wonderful. Roasted notes of mocha coffee and toasted almonds characteristic of Martell Cordon Bleu are accentuated, while sweet spicy notes – candied orange, cinnamon and honey – are unleashed on the palate with unsuspected intensity.”

Presented in a deep blue embossed presentation box, Martell Cordon Bleu Intense Heat’s packaging reacts to body heat when rubbed, turning a fiery red and creating the illusion of glowing embers.

To celebrate the launch of Cordon Bleu Intense Heat, Martell has also partnered with leading mixologist Clotilde Lataille to create a signature drink, the Intense Heat Cocktail, inspired by the wood and heat flavours of the cognac.

People are also more interested in the heritage and provenance of their drinks, and brands like Martell offer a rich history and story. The company’s founder, Jean Martell, was an Englishman from Jersey who moved to Cognac in order to trade “eaux-de-vie” and ended up staying and setting up his own business.

When you know the story and heritage of where a product comes from, it adds another level of enjoyment to the experience.

Magin Trewhella, Head of Marketing at Dark Spirits, Pernod Ricard UK also commented, saying, “we’ve seen people becoming more experimental with spirits in recent years, and there’s been a noticeable growth in the interest of dark spirits especially. As palates develop, people often seek the more rounded and complex flavours that a cognac can offer.”

Our typical cognac drinker is usually a discerning gent who enjoys discovering new things (be that food, drink, bars or products). He’s typically in his mid-late 40s, enjoys the finer things in life and will have a cognac socially or at the end of a meal as a digestif.

We have noticed a recent shift in Martell drinkers who are upgrading or ‘premiumising’ their choice of spirits. A consistent theme is that men in their 30s and early 40s seem to appreciate quality food and alcohol and are willing to pay a premium for these products - naturally this has a positive impact on premium brands like Martell!

In the grocery market, sales of spirits are increasing and sales of cognac continue to grow at around 1.3 per cent a year. Christophes thinks the main reason for this is the growing interest in craft and artisanal products (such as craft beers and boutique gins).

Martell continues to the be number two cognac in the UK, just behind Courvoisier, and is the second largest cognac globally.

Martell is a much-loved brand for regular cognac drinkers. Looking ahead, we’re keen to educate younger, experimental drinkers of cognac to inform them on the taste of Martell and the company’s rich heritage. Martell is one of the oldest of the great Cognac houses and has been enjoyed and cherished for over three centuries and through innovative serve ideas and campaigns. We look forward to continuing that story for years to come.

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Royal Salute 32-Year-Old Union of the Crowns Unveiled The Button Collective Kirsty Chant 07985 736463 Follow us on Twitter @ButtonPR

122 LUX - October 2016

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Royal Salute 32-Year-Old Union of the Crowns Unveiled

Royal Salute is a brand steeped in tradition and prestige. First launched in commemoration of the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953, the Speyside-based brand established themselves with a very clear homage. In reflection of the traditional 21-gun salute, Royal Salute Whisky is aged for a minimum of 21 years. Now, after more than 50 years of producing some of the world’s finest whisky, distilled and produced in Keith, Moray, adds a new feather to their shako, in the form of an exuberant, permanent expression of celebration to the modern British Monarchy.

Most recently, Royal Salute arrested the attentions of whisky lovers with their new signature brand, the 21-Year-Old whisky first brewed in celebration of the coronation in 1953. Its devotion to historical heritage is clear to see from the outset – its flagon, fashioned from Wade porcelain, is wrapped delicately in a royal blue shroud, held in place by fine leather; the cap is inscribed with a heraldic cross pattée; the bottle itself incorporates the image of Robert the Bruce, alongside a Gaelic inscription that translates to ‘fidelity, stability since 1801’.

The celebration of both English and Scottish heritage is evident in this bottle, in particular its allusion to the events of 1801. The prospect of war with the French Revolutionary Republic became a sudden and very real possibility when Ireland, which at the time was rebelling against direct British rule, came under invasion from an army led by the famous General Louis Lazare Hoche in 1798. In the bloody aftermath, and especially in the prelude to Napoleon de Buonaparte’s creation of the French Empire, the drive for closer ties between England and Scotland meant that United Kingdom became realised through the Acts of Union 1801. This whisky, with its motif of Robert the Bruce and celebration of the English Monarch, is a call-back to a time of great unity in the face of adversity, a steadfast message that bears some relevance in today’s climate of Scotland’s question over independence.

Now, though, the exceptionally crafted and aged whisky Scotch whisky has unveiled the new Royal Salute 32-Year-Old Union of the Crowns, which invokes another time of heightened tensions in the British Isles that further underpin the unbreakable bond between Scotland and England.

Royal Salute 32-Year-Old Union of the Crowns pays tribute to the events of 1603, when King James VI fused three mighty kingdoms to create the modern British Monarchy. Reflecting the significance of this historical event, the rare single malts in Royal Salute 32-Year-Old Union of the Crowns exemplify the power of unity, combining precious whiskies to create an incredible experience that can boast to be greater than the sum of its parts.

This new exquisite blend unites precious single malt and grain whiskies aged for a minimum of 32 years, a further 11 on top of its minimum of 21. Celebrating the creation of the modern British Monarchy is the

source of the brand’s inspiration and values, and this passionate expression will appeal to aficionados looking for a rare whisky experience that will be available exclusively through global travel retail.

Exceptional whiskies aged for over 32 years have been hand-selected from some of the best distilleries in Scotland, such as: Longmorn with its creamy texture; the characteristically fruity Glen Keith; the sweetness of Tormore and the richness of Braeval as well as long-since closed distilleries - Lochside and Caperdonich. With all of these elements combined the final expression offers a rich and fruity nose with flavours of soft caramel toffee, dark chocolate and orange with a touch of ginger cake.

Reflecting the rare liquid within, Royal Salute 32-Year-Old Union of the Crowns is presented in an elegant porcelain flagon, made from the purest clay, water and tempered fire. The flagon, which takes ten days to make at the hands of highly skilled craftsmen, is embossed with a distinguished handhammered silver plaque, while a black stone set on a silver crown tops the bottle.

Each bottle is unique, with the glaze giving every flagon an individual patina – the result of a secret firing process. The story of the Union of the Crowns is brought elegantly to life through the flagon’s long neck, which is decorated with a rose, a thistle and a shamrock.

Peter Moore, Prestige Brand Director at Chivas Brothers, commented, “we are very pleased to present Royal Salute 32-Year-Old Union of the Crowns, a truly precious blend of aged whiskies. This unique Scotch unites the timeless tradition of our skills and history with a contemporary understanding of the whisky experience preferred by today’s discerning spirits drinkers. The British Monarchy has been at the heart of the brand since its foundation in 1953 and, as a true representation of the exquisite craft of the Royal Salute blending team, we expect this new expression to become a sought-after collector’s item for international travellers.”

Royal Salute 32-Year-Old Union of the Crowns will be available in global travel retail from October 2016 at an RRP of 380 USD or local equivalent.

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