Lifestyle 2014

the barrister

LifeStyle

SU PPL E ME N T 2014

Wealth Management

Independent Financial Planners | Discretionary Asset Managers | Tax Advisers

By Listening

WE UNDERSTAND THE WORLD OF WEALTH MANAGEMENT is a complex one, but one that is evolving. On that basis, with so many different organisations, offering different solutions, it can sometimes be difficult to know which way to turn and who to trust.

For example, how do you know whether you need the individual services of an Independent Financial Adviser (IFA), a Personal Tax Adviser, an Investment Manager, or all three together?

Based on our experience at OCM Wealth Management we would always recommend that every client needs all three of those services and a Discretionary Asset Manager to ensure your mandate is followed, not that of a Fund Manager.

That in itself causes problems because if you bring all of the services together it causes duplication of charges, the different elements not being integrated and sometimes overlapping and conflicting advice.

OCM Wealth Management has over the last ten years specialised in bringing together the services of an IFA, with that of a Tax Adviser and having an integrated Investment Manager with Discretionary Investment powers because we recognised every client needs all of these services together not them individually. We offer a singular team based approach with one single transparent charge for our clients designed to alleviate all of the problems associated with bringing the individual services together.

The reduction in charges by having everything together under one roof, but Independent, is significant and in many instances reduces the overall client charge by up to 50% on an annual basis, when compared to the traditional client model of disconnection and individual services provided by the IFA, Platform, Discretionary Fund Manager and Tax Adviser.

As an example please refer to the chart below.

Investor Profile Ongoing Charges Comparison Resource Used

DIY

OCM

Typical IFA with Platform

IFA + DFM with Platform

Underlying Portfolio

1.50%

0.60%

0.80%

0.80%

Platform

0.00%

0.25%

0.25%

0.25%

IFA / FA

0.00%

0.75%

1.00%

1.00%

DFM

0.00%

0.00%

0.00%

1.00%

Total

1.50%

1.60%

2.05%

3.05%

OCM fee includes IFA, DFA Tax Advice and ongoing advice all in the annual IFA fee - ÂŁ1m+ client

What Makes OCM Different

OUTCOME BASED INVESTING IS OUR USP! Over the last 10 years we have listened to what our clients want from Wealth Management and the answer is always simple, “Clarity” in strategy “Value” as regards to charges and “Delivery” on performance. We have answered above the value proposition and once that has been understood the next step is to work with a client to develop “Clarity” by creating a coherent strategy that defines how you will maintain, or achieve financial independence. If you are at the start of your plan then the emphasis is on building wealth as tax efficiently as possible. Later in your plan the emphasis may shift to the transfer of assets tax efficiently to the next generation.

Once that plan is developed we provide a single document that provides “Clarity” for you and then work with our integrated Independent Discretionary Investment Managers to “Deliver” the investment strategy or your mandate, using our award winning investment process which we call “Outcome Based Investing”.

Outcome Based Investing (OBI)

OBI focuses on dynamic, cyclically adjusted, portfolio asset management, which prioritises delivering the “Outcome” (annualised return after fees and fund manager charges) and protecting capital against significant market events and cyclical economic downturns for the client, ahead of beating the benchmark and beating the indices.

By focussing on the clients’ needs rather than that of trying to beat our peers the client experience is one of significantly less volatility and peace of mind that they know we are putting their interests first.

The chart below illustrates the performance of the most popular portfolios we manage at OCM and shows the added value that OBI has provided over one of the most volatile periods in recent history, compared to the benchmarks, the FTSE all share, MSCI World and MSCI Emerging Market indices.

Periodic Performance Table - Total Return Bid to Bid over Selected Periods to the 20th February 2014 Period

3 Months

6 Months

12 Months

3 Years

Since June 2009

Since March 2007

Model Portfolio & Benchmark & Major Global Indices for Observation OCM OBI Focus 5%

1.33%

2.77%

3.86%

17.01%

57.93%

no data

OCM OBI Focus 6.5%

2.01%

3.98%

5.99%

25.99%

68.57%

no data

Mixed 0% - 35% Shares

0.38%

2.29%

2.77%

13.20%

36.14%

20.20%

OCM OBI Focus 8%

2.51%

5.87%

6.56%

22.17%

70.46%

87.68%

Mixed 20% - 60% Shares

0.60%

3.10%

5.39%

15.66%

43.41%

23.71%

OCM OBI Focus 10%

3.35%

7.41%

11.44%

33.99%

90.86%

110.15%

Mixed 40% - 85% Shares

0.48%

3.12%

7.18%

17.22%

54.13%

29.42%

FTSE 100

2.15%

6.59%

10.59%

24.74%

78.22%

37.79%

MSCI World

-1.01%

4.18%

9.94%

25.82%

80.37%

46.15%

MSCI Emerging Markets

-9.52%

-4.07%

-14.56%

-10.54%

31.27%

40.94%

Source: Analytics 20th February 2014 – Performance is total return and net of Fund Managers fees but not advisory fees.

Please note that past performance is not an indication of future performance and cannot be guaranteed or relied upon.

Summary

OCM Wealth Management is therefore a modern wealth management firm that brings together individual client services into one Independent client focussed solution designed to not only strategise but deliver your objectives.

That is why we say “You Dream We Deliver”.

If you would like any further information on our services, or would like to arrange a no obligation meeting with one of our advisers, please contact us on 0845 338 1971, or email info@ocmwealthmanagement.co.uk.

Further information can also be found on our website www.ocmwealthmanagement.co.uk

Your Heart in Your Hands When you lead a busy life, sometimes the hardest thing to admit is a problem with your health.

If you’ve recently experienced central chest pain, a dull pain or heavy feeling maybe even a mild discomfort in your chest. Don’t push these matters of the heart to the bottom of your priorities.

Maybe it’s time to visit your GP The Wellington Hospital has an international reputation for excellence in cardiac care, offering a full range of Outpatient Cardiac Testing, Daycase and Inpatients Cardiac Care.

Think about your heart this month 0203 411 6556

www.thewellingtonhospital.com

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Al Barari: A Desert Oasis

By Claire Strickett

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Dubai is a desert kingdom - a high-octane metropolis where the pace of change is almost breathtakingly rapid; where skyscrapers of shimmering steel and plate glass shoot up into the unrelenting blue of the Emirati sky.

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So far, so accurate: until now, thanks to a project turning all these preconceived ideas about Dubai on their head. From the richly green, landscaped parkland of the Al Barari estate, the soaring silhouettes of downtown Dubai (in reality only a 10 minute drive away) are a distant memory lining the horizon. This development, the creation of the Zaal family, makes you question everything you thought you knew about Dubai.

The scale of Al Barari can’t be overstated, or even easily grasped at first glance. The estate, 189 villas spread throughout 325 acres of peaceful, mature, landscaped grounds, sits on the royal reserve of Nad Al Sheba, and overlooks a protected nature reserve. But while the setting itself is on a vast scale, the properties here are constructed on a very personal one. The spacious, low-rise homes, none more than four storeys high, occupy spacious plots, each with its own private grounds, swimming pool and terrace.

It’s all so far from the high-rise whirl of stereotypical Dubai that you have to keep reminding yourself where you are.

The intimate, personal ambience of Al Barari is not down to luck or chance. This project has been conceived, developed and seen through down to the tiniest detail - think the selection of door handles and showerheads - by one family: the Zaals. This family can trace its roots in the UAE back to the early 19th century, and the current head of the family, Zaal Mohammad Zaal Senior, began planning Al Barari when he returned home to the UAE from the UK, the homeland of his wife, the highly-respected interior designer Lesley Zaal. Struggling to find anywhere that matched up to his dream home or community, Zaal and his family, including his son, Mohammad Bin Zaal, now Al Barari’s CEO, began to mull over what their ideal development would

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be like. Years of thinking, planning and hard work later, they’ve realised that vision. And, judging by the sales figures of which the Zaals can rightly be proud, it’s one that’s shared by others.

The name ‘Al Barari’ means ‘the wilderness’, and the estate will eventually include 34 distinct gardens themed around different styles (Islamic, Balinese and Mediterranean to name but a few).

More than anything, it calls to mind the landscaped estates of the greatest English country houses - nature subtly tamed and shaped in keeping with one family’s vision. The Zaals’ vision is grounded in environmental sustainability and awareness, and underpinned by a complete commitment to long-term thinking. State-of-theart technology runs underneath the estate and water and waste are recycled and reused with the utmost efficiency.

The scale of the undertaking (overseen by Creative Director and renowned landscape designer, Kamelia Zaal) has necessitated the establishment of Al Barari’s own plant nursery of more than 1.2m sq ft, home to 800 new species of plants. The density of the final planting, and the 16.2km of waterways that flow through the estate have even created its own microclimate. Temperatures here are between five to two degrees lower than the surrounding areas – Al Barari is a true world apart.

The homes themselves have also been designed with long-term family ownership in mind, forming characterful neighbourhoods that together make up a true community. Arranged in leaf-like clusters, those within the main estate are a successful blend of traditional Islamic architecture (the Zaals are rightly proud of their country’s artistic and architectural heritage) with sleek contemporary design and technology. Lesley Zaal’s touch is evident throughout: warm and welcoming, the interiors (and extensive outdoor living spaces) remain clean, uncluttered, and tasteful.

Set slightly apart from the rest of the development, The Reserve is an enclave of exclusivity even within this already ultra-exclusive setting. Here, the prospect is very different: the same rich greenery, the same skilful landscaping, but a quite distinctive architectural approach. The 28 Reserve villas are unashamedly contemporary, with sharp, clean edges, uncluttered white facades and an innovative juxtaposition of modern and natural materials.

The idea behind The Reserve came about, Mohammad Bin Zaal explains, thanks to the family’s own experience of developing, as they wished to continue the freedom and satisfaction they found in designing the Al Barari villas completely in line with their own vision. At the Reserve, new owners can experience similar fulfilment, by purchasing their plot (up to 75,000 sq ft), the basic shell of their villa, and working with the Zaals and their carefully chosen teams of designers, architects, suppliers and craftsmen to realise a very personal and distinctive dream property.

The homes here are, if anything, even more spacious than those on the main estate, with outstandingly generous quarters for both living and entertaining, inside and out. Prices begin at 12.5 million AED for turn-key villas and 14 million AED for shelland-core properties in The Reserve – prices which reflect both the exclusivity of the development and the enduring desirability of Dubai as a base for the world’s wealthiest buyers. However, the recent announcement that a selection of smaller residences will be released onto the market later this year should provide a slightly lower entry price-point for those tempted by the Al Barari lifestyle and its long-term investment potential.

That potential becomes clearer and clearer as the estate and community continue to grow and take root. Residents and visitors alike will find much to keep them here, even with the world-class restaurants, shopping, and entertainment of downtown Dubai just a short drive away. Take The Farm - Al Barari’s own estate restaurant, whose name references its ‘farm to plate’ philosophy. Wherever possible, ingredients are locally grown and organically-sourced, treated with respect and imagination to create dishes that are as wholesome as they are delicious. There’s something deeply nourishing – in more ways than one – about eating in a restaurant so committed to its surroundings, community and environment. And, given the Zaal family’s philosophy of holistic living, it’s no surprise that this year will also see the opening of a vast and state-of-the-art spa.

The quiet confidence of a family who believed in the truth of their vision and their values, and who have been willing to work against the grain to achieve it, has paid off: here, finally, is a development worthy of a city that is beginning to truly grow into its potential as a centre of cultural, financial and economic significance. At Al Barari, high-end living in Dubai has come of age.

For Enquiries: +971 4 388 6030

www.albarari.com THE BARRISTER LIFESTYLE SUPPLEMENT

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Lifestyle: Surviving the Final Furlong

By Nigel Bolitho

Unfortunately today unless you are a judge or have built up a large pension pot, you can probably no longer rely on a pension annuity to provide you with a reasonable income in retirement. Not only that but judges’ tax-free pension allowances are to be scalped, two new caps on pensions are being introduced and the maximum annual contribution without tax penalties is being reduced from £50,000 to £40,000. So how do you fight potential penury in retirement when much of your income may be fixed but the cost of living is not? In this circumstance we face the dreaded “pensioner inflation” which is a higher rate than normal inflation because older people tend to spend much more money on energy to keep warm.

The answer is to prepare for it and to build up a diversified portfolio of investments which can, at short notice, produce additional sources of income. And at a time when UK interest rates are at a record low, obtaining a decent investment return means that the investor has to take more risk. So, essentially, you have to decide how much capital you:-

The first argument I use in this situation is to say that potential retirees should not retire all at once. A gentle reduction in hours is to be preferred. Not only does it reduce the pain of doing nothing but also gives you the wherewithal to finance the cost of cruises and weekends away. So before you think about retiring, try to work out what potential income you may have in retirement and what your running costs are likely to be.

Bank and Building Society Accounts

So what else can you do to combat dreaded pensioner inflation?

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* *

*

Keep in a bank or building society account yielding, say, 1%-3%; How much you invest in, say, equity income shares/funds of one sort or another yielding, say, 3-5%; How much you invest in, say, high yielding fixed interest securities, commonly called corporate bonds, yielding 6%-8%.

Let’s look at these three potential sources of additional income in turn and, for simplicity, in terms of funds for the latter 2 categories:-

This summer the Government lent the banks £80bn at a low rate of interest to lend on to small and medium sized enterprises. By and large not a lot of money has been lent this way but it means that the banks have plenty of capital and so don’t need to offer you, the retail investor, a particularly high rate of interest. It’s particularly noticeable that over the past 6 months or so, the rate of interest on a fixed 5 year bank or building society cash bond

has fallen from around 5% to around 3%. Everybody should, of course, keep some cash in a rainy day fund but it will not earn much interest and probably not much interest over the next 2 years.

Equity Income Funds Up until as little as 5 years ago, the only country offering decent dividend yields from blue chip shares was the UK. Now, however, the idea that investors like dividends, and particularly growing dividends at a time of low returns on cash, has gone around the world and no more so than to Asia. I, and I am sure a lot of other financial advisers, have been gradually switching client funds into UK and overseas equity income funds over the past 6 months.

Unfortunately most of these funds pay dividends quarterly or half yearly which is not userfriendly when many bills come in monthly.

the better you can look after it. Mortgages usually only run to age 75 but the aftermath of the credit crunch has changed the way that BTL mortgage applications are considered by lenders. Previously, if the expected rental income was 130% or more of the expected interest charge, then a BTL mortgage was readily available; today, all but a few lenders want some additional sources of income and for self-employed people lenders may want at least 3 years trading income and base any mortgage offer on the lowest of the 3 years’ income. As one reason for being self-employed is to reduce your income liable to tax, this change of approach is annoying to say the least.

A modest alternative is to let a room or more in your home using the Rent-A-Room scheme. Essentially, it says that the first £4,250 of rental income in a tax year is tax free but you then pay normal income tax on When my late father retired the rest. Alternatively you some 30 years ago at the age of 60, High Yielding Corporate can record income against he could rely on a private pension Bond Funds expenses but are your with M & G to provide him with expenses going to be more a sizeable and escalating annuity These funds invest mainly than £4,250 a year? Whether – and one which included a in company (rather than you go for Rent-A-Room or government) quoted fixed not depends very much on half widow’s pension. Then at interest securities.

They whether you want strange age 65 the State pension kicked offer a high return often paid people living in your home. in and my father also had a bit monthly and pay the sort of On the other hand a nice of income from dividends. He income return that used to be couple of energetic Eastern was reasonably comfortably off available on cash before the Europeans living upstairs and could, before his death, start of the credit crunch in could look after you in your pay a quarter of his net income 2007. By and large companies dotage when you are living in premiums for private medical have sorted out their balance downstairs- so avoiding care insurance. sheets and cashflows during home fees for some time at recession and the so-called least. credit default on this type There are, of course, lots of of bond – ie the chances of the issuer defaulting on payment of other types investment which can produce “income” of one sort interest and on maturity of the bond – is currently at a low level. or another. But a move by advisers to charge fees rather than take These non-investment grade bonds are, rightly, graded lower than commission (see RDR box below/above) on investments means investment bonds but then they are also less sensitive to interest that some favourites such as investment bonds- technically rate movements. single premium life assurance products- are likely to become less popular. Don’t forget either that everybody has an annual Capital Buy-to-Let/ Rent-A-Room Gains Tax allowance of currently £10,600. So an additional source of retirement income may be tax free capital gains. But it’s not Many people have forsaken personal pensions because annuity necessarily a dependable regular source of income.. rates have fallen thanks to a combination of low UK interest rates and longevity. BlackRock predicts that one in six of you living Anther obvious course of action is to try to ensure that both you in Britain today will live to 100! The alternative investment, for and your spouse or civil partner are making maximum use of his many younger people at least, is to invest in one or more residential or her annual Personal Allowances. The basic personal allowance buy-to-let (BTL) properties. The big tax attraction is that you can is going up from a current £8,105 to probably £9,440 in 2013-14. offset the cost of mortgage interest against rental income and the Moreover the Coalition Government’s target is £10,000 for those BTL mortgage can be on your own main residence; it does not below the age of 65. On the other hand, older people may not see necessarily have to be on the property let out. Of course, the usual much uplift in their higher allowances from now on. guideline when buying any sort of residential property is location, location, location and the nearer the property is to where you live, In conclusion, in my late Father’s days, pensions were the prime and

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often only form of retirement income. Now other sources are often needed because annuity rates on personal pensions (unless you are extremely ill) are poor and have been falling for a decade. So as the final furling approaches, please start planning for retirement and seek assistance if necessary.

What is RDR? RDR, or the Retail Distribution Review, began operating at the beginning of 2013. Essentially it means that financial advisers must charge fees rather than commission when advising on investments and implementing their purchase. But there can also be a great deal of difference as to what advisers charge.

By and large, it looks as if the main banks charge m o s t .

According to research

undertaken

by Money Marketing, L l o y d s Banking G r o u p has an upfront charge starting at 2.5% of the value of the first £300,000 i n v e s t e d dropping to 1.5% on a m o u n t s b e t w e e n £300,000 and £1m and to 0.75% on amounts between £1m and £2m with nothing above that latter figure. At HSBC, the up-front charge is £950 on assets up to £75,000, a 1.3% up-front charge for assets between £75,000 and £150,000 then dropping to 1% for assets between £150,000 and £500,000. The percentage charge is then 0.8% for assets between £500,000 and £1m and 0.65% for assets of £1m to £3m. At the Nationwide there is a 3% initial charge regardless of investment size while at RBS, the initial fee is £500 with implementation fees of 1.25% for assets up to £500,000, falling to 1% between £500,000 and £1m and 0.5% on amounts above that figure. There may also be ongoing annual charges.

If you go to a stockbroker then you can expect to pay around 1% and probably less with an Independent Financial Adviser. All these

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fees are plus 20% VAT apart from those of smaller financial advisers who have a non-product linked fee income under the £77,000 VAT threshold.

Of course a bigger financial institution may be able to offer a wider range of financial advice and big certainly does not mean bad. It is also true that advisers with bigger portfolios are more likely to make use of at least the services of a stockbroker than stick with a financial adviser. The name of the game in choosing your financial adviser is to make sure that you are a big fish in his or her pond.

Then you should obtain a good deal on fees and receive a gold service as an important client.

Pensions Warning: According to a recent HSBC survey, the UK faces the worst savings shortfall of 15 countries.

As people live longer, more and more of us will run out of money. HSBC states that the average retirement lasts 19 years but peoples’ savings will, on average, run out after just 37% of that period- ie after just 7 years. The survey also revealed that one in five people surveyed worldwide are not saving at all for retirement while in the UK that figure is a staggering 34%.

Nigel Bolitho nigel.bolitho@gmail.com BV Services is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (number 117954)

bolitho@enterprise.net

The modern age of tailoring

By James Ingram

Twenty years ago, when picturing a tailor one would think of an elderly gentlemen nestled away in his Savile Row basement with nothing but a piece of chalk and a pin cushion for company. In today’s modern age of technology the industry that was once deemed old fashioned is now favoured by fashion’s most elite players including David Gandy, Daniel Craig and Ray Winstone.

One of the pioneers, leading the business into the 21st century is the renowned and slightly eccentric tailor, Gresham Blake. Gresham Blake has led the tailoring business for over ten years. Combining traditional skills with modern techniques and by listening closely to his clients’ needs and requirements they are able to create something truly personal.

Gresham and his wife, Fal, launched the Gresham Blake brand in Brighton at the height of ‘Cool Britannia’ in 2000. Since then, Gresham’s eye-catching creations for high-profile clients including Ray Winstone, Steve Coogan, Jimmy Page, Plan B and Norman Cook (aka Fatboy Slim) have brought him fashion industry recognition and an ever-growing army of customers attracted by his signature combination of quality garments with a quirky twist.

Gresham grew up in Tunbridge Wells, inheriting his needlework skills from his mother, a talented seamstress and art teacher. His mum’s influence on his career direction was evident early on – by the age of four he was already using his tailoring skills to create THE BARRISTER LIFESTYLE SUPPLEMENT

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apparel and matching accessories for his Action Man collection.

After briefly considering a career as a sculptor, he went on to study fashion at Brighton University, following in the footsteps of former alumni, Barbara Hulanicki.

Gresham Blake pride themselves on only using the best cloths from British mills. They also weave their own in-house fabrics which are not available anywhere else. For his most recent Autumn/Winter 2014-15 collection, Gresham created a number of pieces from stab proof materials. Drawing influence from hunting, the collection also includes printed shirts and sharp suit jackets adorned in gun embroidery.

March 2014 will see the launch of Gresham Blake’s U Design service, the UK’s first augmented reality bespoke shoe design app. In the modern day of technology, U Design allows you to customise shoes and boots in a wide range of materials from suede to leather, patent, and even in the same cloth as your Gresham Blake suit. Styles available range from loafers, Oxfords, Chelsea boots, slippers, trainers and weekend bags to match. By hovering the completed design over your foot the augmented U Design app will quickly transport you to a virtual reality, which allows you to see the completed shoe in action.

Whether you are downloading the U Design app to your media device or visiting in store, where all sizes are available to try on and stylists are on hand. The entire process takes up to eight weeks from concept to completion. The over all cost of owning your very own pair of these one of a kind shoes will cost you a mere £385.

For over fifteen years Gresham Blake has pioneered the tailoring business by combining his experience with traditional skills, contemporary techniques, avant-garde technology, high-end materials and a bespoke service. Gresham Blake turns shoemaking on its head by making every customer a designer.

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“The U Design concept evolved because many shoes try to appeal to a wide audience and this has given a blanket look. I felt that a shoe should be more interesting than just a plain black or brown. The individual expresses their individuality through their clothing and I wanted people to also be able to do it through shoes and hence the U Design idea was born” says Gresham.

By combing bespoke design with fashion forward digital technology, Gresham Blake has once again raised the bar for fellow designers to create the newest must-have invention which not only appeals to the traditional gentleman but also to today’s most influential trend setters.

The U Design service can be found in both London and Brighton Gresham Blake stores.

www.greshamblake.com www.twitter.com/greshamblake BRIGHTON Address: 20 Bond Street Brighton BN1 1RD Mon - Thur : 10am - 5.30pm Fri : 10.30am - 5.30pm Saturday : 10am - 6pm Sunday : 11am - 5pm LONDON Address: 143 Commercial Street London E1 6BJ Tue - Thur : 11am - 7pm Fri & Sat : 10am - 6.00pm Sunday : 12pm – 5pm Closed Monday

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THE BARRISTER LIFESTYLE SUPPLEMENT The images used in this piece are copyright dbox for CIM Group & Macklowe Properties

432 Park Avenue: on top of

By Tony Rome

the world Climbing the Empire State Building is a must-do for any visitor to NYC. After all, the view of Manhattan is hard to beat. But now imagine a whole new perspective: gazing down on the Empire State itself, and the Chrysler Building, and virtually every other building in the city, all from your own master bedroom suite, or kitchen breakfast bar, or even the comfort of your free-standing bathtub.

This will be the experience of the future residents of 432 Park Avenue, a skyscraper that is steadily climbing to unprecedented heights – 1,396ft, to be precise – and which will transform New York’s iconic skyline. When completed in 2015, its 96 storeys will make 432 the tallest residential building in the Western Hemisphere. Living on the upper storeys here won’t give you so much a bird’s eye view as a pilot’s eye view. What’s more, 432’s location is the prime of prime - at Manhattan’s epicentre, between 56th and 57th Street. Step outside and residents will be within immediate

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reach of the best culture, entertainment and shopping in the world, not to mention Central Park. Hardly surprising, then, that the 104 residences command price tags of up to $95m (starting at $7m).

As 432 soars ever higher, many are seeing it as an emblem of New York City’s real estate market itself: after the post-crash years when confidence temporarily dipped, New York has once again overtaken London as the most sought-after property location in the world, with real estate in Manhattan commanding some of the highest prices globally.

In the great race for height and status, supertall buildings are rarely as beautiful as this. The slender silhouette of 432 is bold in its simplicity, but not ostentatious; modern, but already timeless.

It’s a landmark project even by the standards of the three main forces behind it: co-developers CIM Group, legendary developer Harry Macklowe, and the Uruguayan architect Rafael Viñoly, who is no stranger to starchitect status thanks to commissions for institutions as prestigious as Oxford University and the Lincoln Centre.

>>

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Yet for all the international appeal of 432, Viñoly has created a structure that could only ever exist in New York, both in spirit and in aesthetic: “The design of this building could not be more bespoke: it is about New York and for New York.” The ground plan’s perfect square is aligned with the city’s great axes, and Manhattan’s distinctive grid plan is mirrored in the geometric grid of the ranks of 10 x 10ft windows that form the sheer planes of each side, framed by architectural concrete.

As for the views, any panorama of New York City from this height could only be breathtaking, but at 432, they’re being turned into works of art. Every single window has been placed to take full advantage of the vistas, whichever way you turn. The interior architect and designer responsible for this meticulous attention to detail, place and finishing inside Viñoly’s building is Deborah Berke, of Deborah Berke Partners. She and her team have taken the unbeatable views as a starting point to align every aspect of the residences’ layouts to maximum effect. When it comes to the interior finishes, meanwhile, for a development as important as 432 only the finest materials will do – solid oak floors, top-of-

the-range Miele appliances, and large marble slabs throughout, employed with a remarkable lightness of touch. The ceiling height, a remarkable 12’6”, is another unique asset for a supertall structure and the overall aesthetic is assured, cool and contemporary, but always shot through with a classic Park Avenue touch. As Berke explains, “The layout of each 432 Park Avenue residence recalls the grandeur and elegance of Park Avenue’s pre-war apartments, but simultaneously establishes the paradigm for 21st century sophistication.”

The amenities of the spacious residences (master bedroom suites with dressing rooms, double bathrooms, eat-in kitchens) are supplemented by hotel-quality facilities within the building – except that, unlike in many comparable apartment buildings, there’s no hotel at 432. Residents will enjoy complete privacy and exclusivity, from the porte-cochère entrance on East 56th Street to their own private elevator landings. The 75-ft swimming pool and its panoramic views, the restaurant, the lounge, the 5,500sqft terrace, the billiards room, the screening room cum performance venue, the boardroom and the children’s playroom are all for residents’ use.

The entirety of the 12th floor is given over to space for entertaining, catering for events of up to 350 guests. Award-winning architects Bentel & Bentel (whose work is familiar to New Yorkers from restaurants such as Eleven Madison Park and the Gramercy

Tavern) are in charge of the design of the private restaurant and lounge. Back in the comfort of their own homes, residents will be able to call on room service and in-suite catering and also have the option of purchasing their very own climate-controlled wine room, as well as an office suite, or staff quarters.

As well as becoming an architectural icon, all signs are pointing towards 432’s future as a true community, challenging the preconception that properties as high profile as this become little more than empty shells – vehicles for off-shore real estate investors to park their money, but not spaces for living. So, who’s buying?

Two-thirds of new owners (so far, sales have topped $1bn) are from the US, and many from from NYC itself. Of course, international interest is also huge, with buyers from the UK, Russia, South America and Asia all early movers. This city is the capital of the world, and 432 its most important new residential building in years. But with New Yorkers so famously hard to please, and so very difficult to impress, the fact that they are taking 432 to their hearts long before it’s even completed is the best possible vote of confidence in this astonishing building. Where Manhattan leads, the rest of the world follows, and as 432 is proving, the only way is up. + 1 212 604 0318

www.432parkavenue.com

Dabbous: Continuing to Change the Game

By Stephanie Temple

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It was Andy Warhol who once said that “The idea of waiting for something makes it more exciting.” Little wonder therefore that after finally securing a table at London’s hottest restaurant, Dabbous, my excitement knew no bounds.

Presided over by young chef turned culinary messiah Ollie Dabbous, the eatery’s success happened virtually overnight, something that is rare in the capital. Just days after it opened, Fay Maschler, the Evening Standard’s legendary restaurant critic, awarded it an almost unprecedented five stars, deeming it a “game changer.”

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Maschler wasn’t alone in her praise. The Sunday Times’ A.A. Gill raved that “It was as close to perfect as I’ve eaten for a long time”, and even the New York Times got in on the act, describing Dabbous as “one of the hardest reservations to land in the city.”

To top it off, a Michelin star was bestowed on the restaurant just months after opening.

Ollie Dabbous was reputed to be shocked at the adulation (and subsequent bookings meltdown). However, despite his tender years, he’s far from being a newcomer, with a CV that boasts such impressive credits as Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, Mugaritz, The Fat Duck, Noma and Texture.

Eager to see if his restaurant could possibly live up to so much hype, we arrived early. This gave us the opportunity to lounge in the spacious downstairs bar - which like the restaurant itself sports that achingly fashionable dark and edgy industrial chic look - accompanied by a couple of Barrel-aged Negronis, just one of the many signature concoctions hand crafted by master mixologist (and Dabbous co-owner) Oskar Kinberg.

Unusually Dabbous presents diners with just three options, a four course set lunch and a four course set dinner (modestly priced at just £28 and £45 respectively) and a seven-course tasting menu. Given how long I had waited to sample Ollie Dabbous’ remarkable creations, it was this third choice that I decided to opt for.

Any lingering doubt that the food might disappoint evaporated at the first whiff of hazelnut bread, cunningly presented in its own paper bag, stamped with the day’s date. Slathered in salty, smoky butter I could happily have dined on that alone.

What followed was as fuss-free, clean and contemporary as the surroundings.

A simple-sounding first course of peas with mint proved to be anything but. An amazingly complex tasting medley of different greens, it was the perfect palate cleanser.

Wonderfully light mixed alliums dressed with chilled pine infusion (the pine sourced from a wood in Kent, so my waiter informed me) was followed by Dabbous’ now legendary coddled egg. A joy to behold (as well as to consume), the egg had been lightly scrambled and then mixed with mushrooms and smoked butter before being returned to the shell, where it lay nestled on its own bed of hay.

Grilled halibut, iodised sour cream, beetroot & watercress stems was fresh and delicate, with a nice chargrilled exterior.

To accompany these dishes our delightful, and hugely knowledgeable, young sommelier, recommended the Willamette Valley Pinot Gris, much crisper than its Alsace cousins. The volcanic minerals and subtle fruit notes in this wine brilliantly complemented the gentle floral elements in the food.

Just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, up pops a sublime barbecue Iberico pork served with a crunchy and earthy

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acorn praline. Possibly the finest piece of meat I have ever had the pleasure of eating.

We accompanied this dish with a delicious 2011 Soffocone di Vincigliata, a big juicy Sangiovese with lovely hints of cherry and undertones of earth and sweet pipe tobacco.

Foregoing the optional cheese course, we finished with not one but two desserts: Yorkshire rhubarb with lavender & ice lettuce and chocolate and virgin hazelnut oil ganache teamed with basil ‘moss’ and a light sheep’s milk ice cream.

And the cost of this culinary equivalent of dying and going to heaven? Just £59.

Despite the artistry of the dishes – and of course the adoration of the capital’s notoriously hard-to-please critics – there is no pretentiousness about Dabbous. The service was relaxed and friendly and there was no sense of being hurried through the meal.

So, would I recommend Dabbous? Undoubtedly. Just don’t hold your breath when it comes to reserving a table.

Dabbous is open for lunch and dinner Tuesday through Saturday.

39 Whitfield Street, London, W1T 2SF. Telephone: 0207 323 1544.

www.dabbous.co.uk.

Riding the Wave...

By Cleopatra King Better known in the 80s and 90s for its vice problems, the city of Miami has performed an impressive about turn to become a major international cultural and financial hub. Behind the familiar sunshine, neon, palm trees and roller skates – the Magic City is fast becoming America’s most exciting cultural destination, with new galleries, museums, performing arts centres and landmark architectural projects springing up.

»

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...in Miami

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Perhaps the only surprising thing is that it’s taken this long. When it comes to outstanding natural setting, climate and location, Miami is hard to beat. Sat at the nexus of North and South America, geographically and culturally, it has always danced to the beat of overlapping, vibrant cultures. Atlantic waves break onto white sandy beaches, and nowhere is Florida’s ‘sunshine state’ motto more deserved. What’s more, this is a city with a design heritage that few others can match, with its peerless collection of Art Deco buildings now restored to their curvaceous, tropical-tinged glory.

Yet it’s only in recent years that Miami has really begun to fulfil its potential. The arrival of Design Miami and international art fair Art Basel in Miami Beach (first held in 2002) put Miami firmly on the international art circuit as the winter stop-off of choice. At the same time, the rejuvenation of the once-neglected Midtown neighbourhood – now renamed the Design District, and home to galleries, cafes and performance spaces – has opened up new opportunities and set off waves of creativity and energy that have shaken up the whole city.

Miami, like other American cities, was by no means immune to the recent economic downturn - but what’s been truly remarkable is the pace of the recovery here. If property is the barometer by which to measure a city’s confidence and strength, then Miami is definitely on the up, in more ways than one. And as prices rise steadily, so do a new clutch of stand-out developments that continue Miami’s tradition of innovative, bold and distinctive building into the 21st century.

Along the shore from the better-known, bolder, brasher community of Miami Beach you’ll f i n d

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Surfside, an exclusive neighbourhood boasting miles of pristine oceanfront and easy access to the sophisticated shops and restaurants of Bal Harbour Village. Nestled within the coveted 33154 Surfside postcode lies The Surf Club Four Seasons Private Residences, an historic institution that has calmly watched Miami’s fluctuating fortunes from its tranquil beachfront setting since 1930. One of America’s most exclusive social institutions, the Surf Club was founded as a glamorous retreat that provided a bridge between relaxed Floridian beach culture – all cabanas, palm trees and lazy days – and the glamour of high society. It quickly became the private sanctuary of the world’s cultural, artistic, intellectual and financial élite. Winston Churchill settled down in the shade here to paint the Atlantic breakers; Elizabeth Taylor and Frank Sinatra sought refuge from the flashbulbs of fame, and the Duke and Duchess of Windsor were regular visitors. A glittering enfilade of social events – balls, cocktail parties, elegant dinners – filled the decades and the elegant rooms of Russell Pancoast’s Mediterranean Revival villa.

With the passing of the years the building fell into genteel disrepair but now, much like its home city, the Club is about to get a new lease of life. As elsewhere in the region, this is a renaissance that’s all about outstanding design. Opening in 2016, The Surf Club Four Seasons Private Residences will be reimagined as a new residential and hotel development of the very finest standards by Pritzker prize-winning architect Richard Meier. The original Club – both the building itself and the institution it houses – will remain, restored and preserved for future generations. Meanwhile, around it will rise breathtaking new buildings that are Meier’s modern interpretation of the same values of elegance, discretion and luxury that inspired the Surf Club’s original founders.

Meier’s work is known for its clean Corbusian geometry and modernist principles, making it the perfect contemporary counterpoint to Miami’s legacy of Art Deco and Modernist styles. His design for The Surf Club Four Seasons Private Residences is

characteristically bold in its simplicity, with two new 12-storey structures in sinuous glass and steel flanking the central 1920s pavilion. This will be Meier’s first residential project south of Manhattan - a real coup for Surfside and Miami, even as the city becomes more and more accustomed to the sight of developments from other world-renowned architects. (Zaha Hadid, Rem Kooolhaas, Herzog and de Meuron and Bjarke Ingels are all making their own contributions to the skyline in the coming years). When The Surf Club Four Seasons Private Residences’ new incarnation is complete, 127 private residences - including 13 penthouses - a five-star Four Seasons hotel, and 30 hotel-serviced apartments will surround the original building. There will be new restaurants bars, a state-of the-art spa, and no less than three fitness centres, all set among landscaped grounds.

This spectacular setting and unparalleled views of the Atlantic are echoed and embraced in the fluidity and lightness of Meier’s designs. Glass curtain walls, frameless balconies, and vast terraces will let the ocean light flood through to create a true sense of indoor-outdoor living. The 13 penthouses – no two are the same - will be, in effect, collaborative projects between their owners and Meier himself, acting in consultation to shape the floor plans, fittings and furnishings. Purchasing a penthouse here, then, offers a rare chance for buyers to collaborate with a world acclaimed architect to create, as well as own, their slice of the new Miami.

If The Surf Club Four Seasons Private Residences had survived as a relic of a lost, golden age, that survival would have been tinged

with regret for what had been lost. Thankfully, while its legacy continues to be preserved and honoured, there’s more to celebrate and anticipate in the region now than perhaps ever before. A city which has truly come of age is one which is as much at ease with its past as with its present and future and The Surf Club Four Seasons Private Residences is testament to this captivating transformation.

Prices for residences at The Surf Club Four Seasons Private Residences range from $3 million - $35 million.

305 330 4000

thesurfclub.com

Barrister Advert 180mm x 125mm_Layout 1 23/10/2012 12:15 Page 1

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Planning their inheritance…

By John Bawden, Chartered Financial Planner, Saunderson House

In 2011/12, HMRC received over £2.9 billion in IHT receipts. With inflation at c3% and the IHT nil rate band frozen at £325,000, it is vital for individuals to form an effective IHT strategy to ensure the maximum possible is passed to their beneficiaries in this increasingly restrictive IHT environment.

The 2013 Budget stated the inheritance tax (IHT) nil rate band would be frozen at £325,000 (or £650,000 for a couple) until at least 2017/18. With inflation set to remain near 3.0%, or higher according to many analysts, it is becoming increasingly difficult for individuals to maximise the wealth they can pass on to their family.

The news is not all bad, however, as with careful planning, utilising the various gift allowances available, and effecting an appropriate IHT strategy, individuals can ensure the wealth they have accumulated is distributed as they wish, rather than handing over an unnecessarily large cheque to the Revenue.

Standard Gift Allowances An individual looking to minimise their estate’s IHT liability should utilise the available allowances within their lifetime.

Gifts of up to £3,000 (the annual exemption) can be made each year (or carried over for one year if not utilised) without any IHT liability. Exemptions also exist for gifts on marriage – £5,000 (parent), £2,500 (grandparent) and £1,000 (other relatives) – while donors can also make an unlimited number of gifts of up to £250 per individual each year, without worrying about a potential IHT liability.

Gifts Out of Normal Expenditure For individuals looking to gift more than the relatively small standard allowances, while still avoiding IHT, the options become increasingly complex. It is possible, however, to make

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gifts out of normal expenditure, exempt from IHT, albeit with some restrictions. Firstly, gifts must be regular, but not necessarily the same amount on each occasion – an example might be funding a child’s annual ISA or pension contribution.

Secondly, any gift must be made out of normal income (be that salary, pension or otherwise), and not from wealth or capital.

Thirdly, the gift must not affect the donor’s standard of living.

Potential Exempt Transfers (PETs) For individuals looking to give away large amounts of their estate (for example a property), the above options are only so helpful. While PETs made during the lifetime of the donor do not attract an immediate tax charge, if they were to die within 7 years of making the gift, a 40% IHT charge would be payable on the excess above the nil rate band (though this decreases by 20% per annum after the third year). Where assets are gifted, donors must take care to ensure they do not continue to benefit from the gift (for example, in the case of a gifted property, donors would be unable to use the property without paying a commercial rent).

Charitable Gifts Individuals are able to gift an unlimited amount of their estate to a registered charity, free of any IHT charge. Furthermore, if an individual gifts at least 10% of their estate to charity during their lifetime or on death, the remainder of the estate attracts IHT at 36% rather than the standard 40%.

An Important Warning While the aim for many individuals is to give away as much as possible, potential donors would be advised to consider what is affordable, thereby mitigating the risk of having to ask for some of it back. There are a wide variety of reasons donors may require more capital, such as the need to provide for longterm care. On average, a third of individuals end up living in a residential care home, with many vastly underestimating the cost of such care, which has risen to c£30,000 per year in the UK, with some care homes in the South East charging upwards of £40,000 per year.

Fortunately, however, there are ways individuals can remove

assets from their estate as part of an IHT planning exercise, which will enable access to these monies to be retained, should they be required at a later date.

The Use of Trusts Gifting to a trust enables an individual to retain control of the asset, though this is often less tax efficient than gifting monies outright. When an individual loans a sum to a Loan Trust Scheme, however, the monies enter a trust that protects the donor and their beneficiaries from IHT on any investment growth. While the donor chooses how the loan should be repaid (either immediately or at a later date), any capital growth on the underlying investment within the trust is out of the estate. Therefore, provided the donor spends the repayments (on, for example, the cost of care), or gifts them, the value of their estate will reduce.

A further option available is the use of a Discounted Gift Trust (DGT). When donated to a DGT, the monies leave the donor’s estate, though are invested to provide a decided level of income.

The benefit of such an arrangement is that a proportion of the gift is ‘discounted’ from IHT, and is immediately outside the estate. As the gift is underwritten, only part of the payment is deemed to be chargeable to IHT, so the gift is effectively free of IHT if it doesn’t exceed the nil rate band. Donors are able to establish a new DGT every seven years, though they are irreversible once established.

With each of these options, it is important to note that the set-up and ongoing management costs can be significant (often c1-2% for each). Furthermore, as with discretionary trusts, periodic 10 yearly charges of up to 6% may apply to the Trust (where the nil rate band is exceeded).

IHT Investment Vehicles A further way an individual might mitigate IHT is by taking advantage of Business Property Relief (BPR), which permits individuals full relief from IHT on transfers of ‘relevant business property’. The requirements to qualify for BPR are significantly less restrictive than many people believe. Furthermore, it will soon be possible to invest in shares qualifying for BPR within an ISA. Planning ahead Careful planning is required to maximise wealth that can be passed to beneficiaries free of IHT. One means of achieving this is through effective cash flow forecasting to determine when gifts should be made, while ensuring sufficient resources remain to cover the costs of, for example, residential care.

With the nil rate band frozen for the foreseeable future, planning ahead has never been more important. Seeking professional advice to effect a carefully considered IHT strategy, and making use of the various reliefs available, is invaluable in ensuring that an individual’s estate is used to benefit their loved ones, instead of lining the thickening pockets of the taxman.

The content, and any opinion expressed in this note, is for information purposes only and should not, in any way, be construed as financial advice.

This note represents our current understanding of law and HM Revenue and Customs practice as at 21 January 2014 We cannot assume legal liability for any errors or omissions and independent financial advice should be taken before entering into any transaction. Levels and bases of, and reliefs from, taxation are those currently applying but are subject to change and their value depends on the individual circumstances of the investor.

Saunderson House are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

SAR143 Suttons & Robertsons Barrister Magazine Half Page portrait_March 2014.indd 2

03/03/2014 17:33

Sustainable Luxury in

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the Caribbean

By Sarah Collins

Originally known as Saint Christopher Island, the West Indian island of St Kitts is one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful, yet often overlooked islands. Until now.

Many centuries ago, the island was fondly known as ‘Sugar City’ and was one of the world’s biggest sugar producers. In 2005 however, the Government ceased sugar production due to increased global competition and diminishing margins. Now, the Government of St Kitts has turned its attention to tourism and is dedicated to becoming one of the better-known Caribbean islands. These efforts are starting to pay off and St Kitts is becoming recognised around the world for its tourism offerings. Visitor arrival numbers have averaged an increase of 13.4% over the past five years testament to the island’s growing appeal (St Kitts IPA 2013).

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31

Both St Kitts and its sister island, Nevis, now boast a range of internationally recognised hospitality brands. Four Seasons, Park Hyatt and Marriott are meeting a growing demand for luxury service and accommodation with yet more recognised developments on the horizon.

history. These celebrated notable islanders include artist Pogus Ceasar, musician Joan Armatrading and Nobel Laureate Saint John Perse. The Kittitian Hill team see the Village becoming a place where people will gather to ‘lime’, eat and drink, catch up on the latest news or just soak up the atmosphere.

For those looking to make St Kitts home, they’ll be pleased to hear that the local property market and economy is estimated to grow at 1.8% in 2014 (IMF 2013) and developers are responding to increased demand for real estate by creating a handful of coveted projects. One project turning islanders’ and overseas buyers’ heads, is Kittitian Hill. Located at the northern tip of the island, this hospitality and real estate project is set between the dramatic Mount Liamuiga and majestic Caribbean Sea, occupying one of the most beautiful areas on the island.

Set on 400 acres of fertile farmland, the farm plays a critical role in the development’s commitment to sustainability, showcasing Kempadoo’s passion and leading the farm-to-table movement in the Caribbean. The farm’s mission is to encourage organic farming in the country and provide guests and residents with the finest quality organic produce. Ensuring that the farm remains at their fingertips throughout their stay, guests and residents at Kittitian Hill will receive regular fresh produce in the form of hanging baskets packed with strawberries and crates of the ripest fruit gathered daily. In addition, ‘pick me’ signs will be peppered throughout the project and a huge six acre ‘collection area’ will invite guests to immerse themselves in the farm’s work, learning about its varied produce and harvesting methods.

Kittitian Hill has made every effort to be different to any other large-scale project; it will be focused around four key pillars of sustainability: community, culture, ecology and economy. Arguably the most important factor of the project is the existing community who have been taken into account at every step of the development process. Founder, Val Kempadoo is Caribbean born and as such, is a passionate community advocate and economic activist and entrepreneur. His objective is to invite Kittitians to join and participate in the project’s journey towards becoming a sustainable luxury destination. Working with the community is crucial to the Kittitian Hill business model, which has been developed to be economically sustainable and based on fair trade principals, active local recruiting, training and collaboration. In line with this business model, Kittitian Hill is creating an academy to train locals in hospitality whilst employing local contractors to build the project.

In addition to actively recruiting Kittitians, the team will celebrate the region’s culture. The future Village, set to complete in 2015 will do just this, and be home to artists of all kinds, a film school and writers in residence. It will also play host to the annual film and literary festivals aiming to bring an eclectic mix of directors, writers and artists to the Village – many that will feature rich Caribbean

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In line with establishing itself as a real estate and travel destination, the island has plenty for its guests to explore and enjoy. Distinctively Caribbean, the people of St Kitts are warm, welcoming and their strong culture of music, vibrant art and fresh local cuisine echoes around the island. Their annual calendar is packed full of island events, festivals and celebrations, promising to satisfy all tastes and interests. Most notably, it is an easy place to mix with the locals, understand their culture and immerse yourself into their laid back way of life. Just last year, the island celebrated its 30th Anniversary of Independence, which was marked by a month of local events and celebrations bringing the community together.

St Kitts also offers a diverse range of attractions and activities in the form of plentiful national parks and unspoilt beaches; visitors and island residents can spend most of their time outside. From surfing and snorkelling in the halcyon blue waters, to zip lining through its lush rainforests and hiking Mount Liamuiga, St Kitts has something for everyone. The landscape also lends itself to bird watchers and keen botanists, who can search for the island’s

national flower, the Poinciana amongst other tropical flora and fauna. If you have time to explore the whole island, jump on board St Kitts Scenic Railway. Built between 1912 and 1926, this restored train once delivered the sugar cane to the sugar mill in Basseterre and is now a fascinating and comfortable way to see the island.

The island is also on its way to becoming a golf destination with the established Royal St Kitts Golf Club and soon to open Christophe Harbour golf course. Kittitian Hill will be introducing another golfing opportunity into the mix with their Ian Woosnam designed 18-hole golf course, Irie Fields. The par 71 golf course will be one of the world’s truly organic golf courses and, with a strong commitment to sustainability, the course will be 100 percent organically maintained without the use of any synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, herbicides or other artificial chemical treatments. In addition, the team will be organically farming around 70 acres of the ‘out of play areas’ allowing Kittitian Hill to become a net producer of food and the very first farmable course in the world.

The $600 million project will start to welcome guests in late 2014, when the Belle Mont Farm Hotel will open. The project’s inaugural hotel will consist of 84 one-bedroom Guesthouse Cottages and 8 four-bedroom Greathouse Cottages, which are dotted around the project’s 400 acres of farmland. For those wishing to own a piece of Kittitian Hill, the three and four bedroom YAYA Groves private villas are available from $2.4 million.

E: contact@kittitianhill.com T: +1.869.4661712

www.kittitianhill.com

TAX RETURNS & ACCOUNTS FOR BARRISTERS • Fixed fees • Meetings in Chambers • Timely service • Monthly newsletter Call Martyn Bradish for a free, no obligation meeting Visit the barristers & judges page in the services section of our website at www.bradish.co.uk

31 Dugdale Hill Lane, Potters Bar, Herts EN6 2DP T: 01707 850969 www.bradish.co.uk mail@bradish.co.uk

THE BARRISTER LIFESTYLE SUPPLEMENT

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LOVE

IS IN THE

AIR

BY ROMEO PRINCE

THE BARRISTER LIFESTYLE SUPPLEMENT

xx

It seems that the days of simply getting down on one knee and asking your beloved to marry you are long gone. With 25% of women claiming in a recent survey that if the proposal is wrong in any way either because it isn’t romantic enough, is in the wrong place or takes place on the wrong day - they will say no, the pressure to get it right has never been greater.

When London-based entrepreneur Jason Rivolta decided to propose to his girlfriend Jackie Hyde, a senior director at Sony Music, he knew he wanted to make the occasion one she would always remember. And what better way to achieve that than to ask Jackie for her hand in marriage whilst on board a private jet?

With the help of Jackie’s friends and colleagues, Jason arranged for her diary to be cleared. Having packed her overnight bag (a scary task for any man), he surprised his girlfriend by turning up unexpectedly at her office.

Refusing to tell her anything of his plans, he was faced with just one problem. Getting from Kensington to Luton Airport in an hour.

Luckily thanks to a combination of clear roads, a good driver and an understanding pilot who pushed back the jet’s departure time, the couple made it to the airfield.

“When Jackie saw the stunning Cessna Citation sat on the runway, she was speechless,” recalls Jason. “Neither of us had ever flown by private jet before and it was incredible. No stressful check-in queues, no security checks. We just drove up to the plane and boarded.”

The pilot, who had been sworn to secrecy with regard to the purpose of the flight and the ultimate destination, greeted Jason and Jackie by name, something which, according to Jason, made him feel like a rock star.

JetPartner.net is a brilliant new internet-based facility that provides a revolutionary way of helping people take advantage of empty seats on private jets.

It is the brainchild of private-aviation-industry veterans Antony Rivolta and Patricio Zunino who, having worked together in the business for a number of years, saw how the market for private air travel was growing.

At the same time they also calculated that around 30% of the 135,000 private flights taking place across the globe each month were flying empty. Some were collecting passengers, whilst others were returning to base or being positioned for their next flight.

While it’s always been technically possible to take advantage of these “empty legs”, few people know how to find them.

There had been no single place where consumers could access information about every single available empty leg flight. Until now.

With the advent of JetPartner.net customers can use this facility to search for hundreds of empty legs to thousands of destinations across the world, from Paris, France to Paro, Bhutan, and at incredible reductions of up to 40%. Most users will pay approximately the price of a first-class, scheduled ticket, but will have far greater flexibility.

To access the service, all customers need do is register at jetpartner.net where simple instructions will guide them through the process. By following the site on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn, they will also be notified of exclusive empty leg deals, often linked to key events in the cultural or sporting calendar.

Jason and Jackie flew to Reims in a Cessna Citation XL, but JetPartner.net clients have access to a whole range of incredible long-range aircraft such as Bombardier’s Global 6000, which can take 15 passengers and offers queensize beds and state-of-the-art catering facilities.

Sinking back into the plush leather chairs and with a glass of chilled champagne In hand, the couple kicked back and relaxed. 45 minutes into the flight, Jason proposed and a thrilled Jackie accepted.

Landing at the private jet terminal at Nice airport a short while later, the couple were whisked off by limousine to enjoy the rest of their weekend.

“It really was the experience of a lifetime,” admits Jason. “I would recommend it to anyone who wants their proposal to be a truly unforgettable one.”

The trip may have made Jason and Jackie feel like rock stars, but thanks to a pioneering new service called JetPartner.net, travellers don’t need to have a bank balance to match.

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All in all, the perfect way to sample the high life at a fraction of the normal fare – and to ensure that you both live happily ever after.

+377-9798 2406;

www.jetpartner.net

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Getting here

A traditional boys’ education with a 21st century vision

• Car MTS is 15 minutes from the M1, the M25 and the A40 • Coaches Beaconsfield, Ealing, Harpenden, Harrow, Highgate, Mill Hill, Radlett, Stanmore • Transit MTS is adjacent to Moor Park (Metropolitan Line) Chiltern line trains change at Rickmansworth From Marylebone: Chiltern Line trains change at Harrow Travelling time from WC1/W1 is 35 minutes

Guided tours (last tour 11.30) The Head Master speaks at 11.15 and 12.15 Excellence, integrity and distinction since 1561 1072_MTS_Barrister Magazine.indd 1

www.mtsn.org.uk

Please contact Gregg McCann, Admissions Officer admissions@mtsn.org.uk +44(0)1923 845514 Merchant Taylors’ School Northwood Middlesex HA6 2HT For boys 11 - 18 06/02/2014 16:16

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MTS

Merchant Taylors’ School Excellence, integrity and distinction since 1561

independent Schools

Sleepover?

One night, two nights.........................or every night.

* Ofsted Boarding Inspection Report, 2011 - awarded ‘outstanding’

Flexibility guaranteed - for just £45 per night Full, weekly and flexi boarding for girls aged 7-18 years Excellent accomodation and a wide range of extra-curricular activities One mile from the M25 and 30 minutes by underground from Central London Calm, nurture and total peace of mind for working parents The Royal Masonic School for Girls Rickmansworth Hertfordshire WD3 4HF

+44 (0)1923 725354 www.royalmasonic.herts.sch.uk

Registered Charity No. 276784

inspires We are a leading 11–18 boarding & day school for boys & girls.

Academic rigour and outstanding co-curricular provision are at the heart of Haileybury, providing the exceptional opportunities and truly all-round education that allow our pupils to discover enduring passions and talents. We offer flexible boarding in the Lower School, a range of scholarships at 11+, 13+ and 16+ and a choice of IB Diploma or A Levels in the Sixth Form.

For further information, or to attend an Open Morning, you are warmly invited to contact the Registrar, Iona Hutchinson registrar@haileybury.com 01992 706353 Haileybury Hertford Herts SG13 7NU haileybury.com

@HaileyburyUK

www.facebook.com/HaileyburyUK Registered charity number 310013

independent minds

Located in the heart of the city, we offer boys an outward-looking, forward-thinking education that prepares them for life.

Academic, Music and Sport scholarships are available at 11+, 13+ and 16+.

A leading boarding and day school for girls aged 11-18, offering an outstanding all-round education.

Please contact the school for more information or to book a place at an Open Afternoon.

Scholarships available at 11+ and 13+

Open Morning Saturday 10 May T: 01747 857111 or visit www.st-marys-shaftesbury.co.uk

Success on the Court

 020 7489 0291  admissions@clsb.org.uk www.clsb.org.uk

For a life in the Law A creative, stimulating, academically challenging co-ed school for ages 3 to 11

A co-educational, Roman Catholic day school for 3 to 18 year olds.

Junior School: 01932 839400 • College: 01932 839300 A Registered Educational Charity No.1017853 www.stgeorgesweybridge.com A Registered Educational Charity No.1017853

• Teaching by specialist subject teachers from age 7 • Large, well equipped sports hall, plus located opposite Victoria Park • Children typically go on to: City of London Girls’, City of London Boys’, Highgate, Bancroft’s, Bedales • Gatehouse pupils regularly achieve scholarships to City of London Boys and Girls, Highgate, Bancroft’s and Forest

Sewardstone Road, Victoria Park, London E2 9JG 020 8980 2978 Web: www.gatehouseschool.co.uk admin@gatehouseschool.co.uk

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inspiring