Issue 3

Global Living issue 3 | october/november 2012

magazine

Living Luxuriously, Worldwide

Business or Pleasure

Luxury cars & private jets for either occasion

Cruising croatia's coast

London hotel review No. 11 Cadogan gardens

how to be a good host

Expat survival skills for dealing with visitors

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Cape yamu, thailand young Swiss, new Wine Expat concierge services 1 Global Living Magazine

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Global Living Magazine

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR alison cavatore

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o mark the start of autumn, we have undergone a fall makeover that we are extremely excited about.

Not only have you, our readers, shown a tremendous amount of support since our initial launch in May, but we also have big plans to continue growing. By revitalizing our cover and overall design, we hope that we will continue to stand out from the pack, and that our elite global focus and extraordinary content will shine with our sophisticated new look.

This issue has been a true pleasure to work on and that is in no small part due to the incredible outpouring of creativity from our contributors around the world (p. 6). The people who help to make Global Living so spectacular Join us on Twitter are as fascinating as the stories they tell and the @GlobalLivingMag places they visit. From exploring an exclusive or @AlisonCavatore corner of Phuket, Thailand (p. 38), cruising the Adriatic on a 49-foot yacht (p. 53), going back in time at a castle hotel in Ireland (p. 50) and discovering Swiss wine (p.

47) to the 69th International Venice Film Festival (p.29 ) and meeting outstanding global culinary talent (p. 12 ), this issue of Global Living proves that there’s no stopping us when it comes to exploring the world in style.

Living a global life can certainly be daunting, but knowing how to manage the challenges (including visitors, p. 20) and take full advantage of the inherent benefits can result in a very rewarding life. At Global Living we explore all aspects of travel and expatriation and share our knowledge with those either in the middle of a similar experience or about to embark. Having the best resources at your disposal is key when living an international life, and this issue presents one of those resources that is a growing trend: expat concierge services (p. 16). Whether you need help navigating the local public transit system or finding a pet-sitter or housekeeper, the day-to-day tasks of being in new territory don’t have to be overwhelming.

As Global Living grows, we look forward to being an important resource for you on your journey of a lifetime. Whether you’re packing your bags to leave, unpacking your boxes to stay or reminiscing about past adventures, we can be your window to the elite world of luxury living, worldwide.

Keep traveling,

Alison Cavatore Founder, CEO & Editor-in-Chief, Global Living Magazine.

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INSIDE GLOBAL LIVING contents

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Contributors

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Technology Center

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Global Style

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Interviews with creative and influential individuals making a splash around the world.

EXPATRIATE

16 Expat Concierge

20 Be a Perfect Host

Ten ways to be a perfect host and stay sane.

ON THE COVER

22 Business or Pleasure

clockwise from top: image courtesy of Rolls-Royce Motor Company; image courtesy of Tieks; image courtesy of la Biennale di Venezia – ASAC; image courtesy of

53 Cruising Croatia

An adventure aboard a yacht

cruising through Croatian waters.

56 Book Reviews

Books for and about global nomad children.

TRAVEL

An inside-look at Switzerland's best-kept secret: Wine.

A visit to Ireland's Belleek Castle Hotel.

Rolls-Royce and Private Jets - Traveling in style for any occasion.

47 Wine & The City

50 Belleek Castle Hotel

An exploration of Mexico's annual celebration of life.

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45 Day of the Dead

Jetsetter fashion and accessories from top global brands.

Exploring a growing trend in expat services.

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A new travel application called Edible Heritage by two Canadians with a passion for Provence.

12 Global Influencers

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Meet our talented team from around the world.

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GlobalLivingMagazine.com Living Luxuriously, Worldwide

On the Cover:

Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead CoupĂŠ

29 Global Events

A peek inside exlcusive events around the world.

34 Culture Crescendo

Exploring Toronto's hot offerings when the temperature drops.

38 Crown Jewel

Exploring the east coast of Phuket, Thailand.

43 Hotel Review

London's No. 11 Cadogan Gardens hotel in Knightsbridge.

Follow us:

Facebook.com/GlobalLivingMagazine Twitter.com/GlobalLivingMag Pinterest.com/GlobalLivingMag

Photo courtesy of Rolls-Royce Motor Car Company

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GLOBAL CONTRIBUTORS Meet our talented team

Apple Gidley Apple Gidley, a freelance writer and author of Expat Life Slice by Slice, is a seasoned expatriate, having started her nomadic life at a month old in Nigeria.

She has called 12 countries home and currently lives in Houston, Texas.

Visit her website at www.expatapple.com.

Dounia Fayad Shirley Agudo

Toma Clark Haines

Dounia Fayad is a lifelong expat and Third Culture Kid (TCK). She is of Assistant Editor With a shopping of Global Living bag in one hand and Lebanese origin and has lived in Magazine. a champagne glass Shirley Agudo in the other, Toma the U.S., Cyprus, is an American Clark Haines is Chief Mexico, Philippines, Australia and France. author, editor and Executive Diva of photographer based The Antiques Diva® She completed her undergraduate degree in the Netherlands. & Co European in France followed by She is the author/ Tours (www. an M.A. in European photographer of antiquesdiva.com).

Politics, Business five books: Bicycle As an American Mania Holland (www. living and working and Law in the U.K. She is fluent in bicycle-mania.nl), abroad for over four languages and Fodor’s Holland, Hot a decade, Toma’s currently resides in the Pink, Network Your greatest challenge U.S. Way to Success and is remembering Here’s Holland (www. whether to greet As an expat, Dounia heresholland.com). the day with a Buongiorno, Bonjour, was bitten by the As a documentary Guten Tag or simply travel bug at a young age. She continues photographer, Good Day. to enjoy this global she is also the lifestyle with her founder of the In addition to Amsterdam Street running a successful husband, who is also a lifelong TCK. Photographers’ tour company in collective. Along France, Belgium, Dounia regularly with Street England, Italy, Photography Holland, Germany, writes on her blog, Next Stop: Musings Workshops, she Sweden and leads regular Denmark, Toma is of a Third Culture Kid (www.tcknextstop.

Photo Walks in a freelance writer, wordpress.com), an Amsterdam. For international ongoing collection of more information, public speaker, her expat experiences contact Shirley interior decorator, and memories, her directly at: champagne travels and her shirleyagudo@ connoisseur and gmail.com. Follow social media addict. photography. her on Twitter at: @BicycleMania.

Anne O'Connell

Aisha Ashraf

Anne O’Connell is a freelance writer, social media consultant and author of @Home in Dubai… Getting Connected Online and on the Ground. She has been an expat since 1993 when she and her husband left Toronto, Canada and moved to Fort Lauderdale, Florida. They enjoyed the sun for 14 years, while she worked in the PR field, before moving to Dubai in 2007 and then to Thailand in 2011.

Aisha Isabel Ashraf is a freelance writer who’s made the expatriate leap of faith twice – first as a lifestyle choice, and now as the trailing spouse of a civil engineer in a global consultancy. Currently based in Canada with her husband and children, she’s crossed geographical, cultural and religious borders and gives a candid account of the journey on her award-winning blog, Expatlogue.

In Dubai, O’Connell started a freelance copywriting business and, more recently, she started writing fiction and was recognized twice with an Editor’s Choice Award on the Fiction Writers’ Platform.

Her fascination for travel and psychology drives her work today.

Her series of posts entitled ‘Breaking the Code of Silence’, about stigma and mental illness, led to her participation in a research study for Canada’s Centre for Addiction and Mental Health. She also writes for various U.K. newspapers, travel and lifestyle publications, and is a columnist for Expat Focus, an established online expat resource. Follow her on Twitter at: @ AishaAshraf1.

O’Connell grew up in Halifax, Nova Scotia and has a bachelor of public relations from Mount St. Vincent University. For more information, visit her website at www.anneoconnell.com.

If you are interested in contributing to Global Living, please contact our Editor-in-Chief, Alison Cavatore, at: Alison@GlobalLivingMagazine.com. We are always looking for experienced, well-traveled writers and photographers and we want to hear from you, our readers. Contact us now about opportunities and visit us online at GlobalLivingMagazine.com.

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Jo Parfitt

Marla Cimini

As a journalist with a passion for travel, music and culinary adventures, Marla has written for many national and regional publications, on topics ranging from wine trails in Argentina to African-Americanowned wineries in Napa Valley. Marla is the author and co-editor of the book, A Century of Hospitality: 1910 – 2010 (McNeill publishing), which focuses on the history of the hotel industry. Many of her articles are featured in Lodging magazine, where she covers trends in tourism. Her work has also appeared in The Courier Post; USA Today online; Uptown; and The Philadelphia Business Pick up a free report on ‘How to Write Your Journal – among others.

When not globetrotting Life Story – the Inside Secrets’ at: www.joparfitt. (or searching for the perfect wine to com/freereport. complement chocolatecovered pretzels), she Jo also leads weeklong can be found rocking residential writing courses in Tuscany on out with her musician how to write life stories. husband, Chris, at their More information home in New Jersey. can be found at: www. watermill.net.

Visit Marla’s website at Jo Parfitt has published 26 non-fiction books, an anthology of poetry called A Moving Landscape, and a novel called Sunshine Soup. She is a journalist, teacher, editor and publisher who also mentors others to write and publish books and articles. Jo has lived in Dubai, Oman and Norway, and is now in the Netherlands. Living and working overseas has made her the mentor and publisher of choice for countless expat writers at Summertime Publishing. All of her expat titles can be seen at: www.expatbookshop. com.

Ulrike LemminWoolfrey

Molly Quell

Carolyn Pearson

Ulrike LemminWoolfrey is a Melbourne, Australia-based freelance writer specializing in travel, expat issues and lifestyle. Originally from Germany, she is a selfconfessed travel-holic and serial expat, having lived in six countries on three continents, and visited more than 60 so far. She aims to add at least one new country every year.

Molly Quell is a freelance social media consultant, web designer and writer who has lived and worked all over the world. Born in the U.S., she has a master’s degree in American Politics. She currently resides in the Netherlands where she focuses on helping small businesses and startups develop their online presence.

When she has time, she writes and has been published in a variety of newspapers and magazines.

Carolyn Pearson is a U.K.-based freelance writer and industry expert on business travel for women.

She is also CEO and founder of www. maiden-voyage.com, an award-winning global network designed to make business travel both safe and social for professional women..

Find out more about her writing at www. ulwoolfrey.com and follow her on Twitter at: @ULemminWoolfrey.

You can see her professional work on her website: www. mollyquell.com.

"Life afloat takes on a soporific tenor once the day’s sailing is over and our guests acclimate to smaller living conditions. Diving off the bow into chill-blue water shocks the system, and gasps can be heard from surfacing heads. Our fresh water tanks are full and a rinse on the aft of the yacht www.marlacimini.com and allows us to dry off with a gin and tonic follow her on Twitter at: while we watch the sun – a glowing @MarlaCimini. orange orb – shower the hills with a verdigris patina."

Carolyn has a background in technology, primarily focused on both travel and media. Her work has taken her throughout Europe, the U.S. and India, and she has lived and worked in both the Netherlands and Australia. As a result, Carolyn speaks fluent Dutch and also some French.

Contact her via email at Carolyn@ maiden-voyage.org or follow her on Twitter at: @maiden_voyage.

Apple Gidley - Cruising Croatia, p. 53 Global Living Magazine

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TECHNOLOGY CENTER technology to enhance your travels

Explore Aix-en-Provence with Edible Heritage Combine two Canadians with a passion for Provence and look what happens – a new travel application called Edible Heritage.

By Carolyne Kauser-Abbott

Tired of churches and museums?

The app also allows a curious visitor the opportunity to understand local customs and to delve into the tastes of Provencal food and wine. Audio clips provide more detail about regional cuisine and traditions. The app’s navigation includes suggestions for restaurants and stores in the area.

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Edible Heritage is an unstuffy balance between bits of history and bites of delicious treats. Travelers will learn about things that are historically relevant to Provence, such as art and architecture, while understanding and perhaps sampling the food, as well as buying some keepsakes along their way.

Allow Edible Heritage to take you on a magical voyage through Aix and discover some of the little-known facts about the City of Art and Water along the way.

Visit www.edibleheritage.com or find them on Facebook, Twitter (@edibleheritage) and Pinterest.

image s courtesy of edible heritage

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his app is a self-guided audio tour of Aix-enProvence, available for handheld devices. The walking tour is designed as a self-paced journey through the old streets of Aix en Provence with 15 historical stops along the way.

GLOBAL STYLE

Jetsetter fashion and accessories

image courtesy of tieks

Style without borders Tieks Sterling & Burke Christen Maxwell Global Living Magazine

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Playful choices for the

vibrant

jetsetter AT GLOBAL LIVING WE LIKE TO PLAY WITH COLOR AS MUCH AS THE NEXT PERSON, SO WE FOUND SOME BRIGHT ACCESSORIES TO LIGHTEN YOUR MOOD ON ANY TRIP. In order to stay comfortable and stylish while traveling, the perfect pair of shoes is key. When stilettos just aren’t appropriate, slip into a pair of Tieks by Gavrieli, the versatile ballet flats made from the finest Italian leathers. Sure, the allure of how they look will draw you in at first, but what will keep you wearing them trip after trip is their meticulous craftsmanship. It takes three days and 150 steps to put together a pair of Tieks from start to finish and the split, non-skid sole design makes Tieks extremely compact (read: travel-able) and creates a flexibility that allows the shoe to mold to the shape of your foot. Perfect for travel, Tieks offer chic, versatile styling to transition from afternoon sightseeing to an evening out on the town. Easy to remove for airport security and perfect for long flights, each pair comes with a compact pouch to compress your Tieks when they’re in your purse or bag, a reusable tote for your heels, and pant clips to hem heel-length pants.

We also love the Christen Maxwell Home collection, with inspiration found in travel, art and history. Founder and designer Christen Maxwell’s philosophy is to “design timeless, well-made objects that transform houses into homes”. She also creates matching passport covers that we love for adding a modern flair to any airport checkpoint.

Model wearing Tieks in Cardinal Red ($165).

Tieks Copperhead Snake ($295)

Tieks Wild Copper ($265)

Models wearing Tieks in Outrageous Orange, Galactic Green, Unmellow Yellow and Pop Pink (each $195).

Christopher Guy 10

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Visit Tieks.com and ChristenMaxwell.com for more information.

images imagescourtesy courtesyof ofchristopher tieks and christen guy maxwell

Christen Maxwell Sapphire Étoile Passport Cover ($17.50) and Malachite Corso Pillow ($150).

CHIC pieces for the

discerning

traveler

J.W. Hulme Medium Weekend Satchel in American Heritage Leather ($1,200) with detachable/adjustable leather shoulder strap.

IF YOU'RE HEADING OUT ON A BUSINESS TRIP OR SIMPLY LIKE TO KEEP YOUR STYLE CLASSIC, CHECK OUT THESE REFINED STERLING & BRUKE TRAVEL ACCESSORIES AND MAKE A TIMELESS STATEMENT IN EVERY DESTINATION.

J.W. Hulme iPad 2 & 3 Smart Cover & Case in American Heritage Leather ($295).

In order to have all of the necessary travel accessories but still maintain a refined sense of style, your finest leather items usually do the trick.

Sterling & Burke represents its own line of handbags and leather accessories in addition to a number of unique brands such as J.W. Hulme, Daines & Hathaway, Great Republic and Mulholland. All of the Sterling & Burke and Daines & Hathaway pieces are made in England, and the larger leather goods are handstitched. The JW Hulme pieces are handcrafted in St. Paul, Minnesota, and come with a lifetime guarantee. Items can be customized to your liking and are available through Sterling & Burkes’ Georgetown, Washington, D.C. store and online.

Sterling & Burke Ltd Flap-Over Document Folio with magnetic closures ($525) and 1.25-inch Hand-Stitched ZipRound Document Case with Handles ($1,195).

Sterling & Burke Ltd. 14-inch Beatrice Bag ($1,950) with solid brass hardware and hand-assembled lock closure.

images courtesy of sterling & burke ltd.

This Daines & Hathaway Travel Watch Roll ($195) is suede-lined and cushioned to ensure the safe transportation of your favorite watches.

Sterling & Burke Ltd Tie Holder ($295) with silk moire lining and Bridle trim.

J.W. Hulme Rolling Pullman Carry-On Luggage in American Heritage Leather ($1,500) with removable trolley strap for toting additional bags.

Visit SterlingandBurke.com for more information.

Luxmere Founder Carol Donnelly

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GLOBAL INFLUENCERS

inspiring individuals taking the world by storm

Silvena Rowe

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blend of many different ingredients, Silvena Rowe is a chef, TV personality and author of six books. Born in Bulgaria on the Turkish border, her father’s approach to life and cooking firmly planted a seed in Rowe, and a trip back to her Eastern Mediterranean roots to explore the gastronomy of the Ottoman empire was the inspiration for her best-selling book Purple Citrus and Sweet Perfume.

Rowe’s career has soared as the chef for 12

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London’s most discerning diners – from royalty to rock stars – and her bold, fragrant, sensual style led to a role as food consultant on David Cronenberg’s 2007 film Eastern Promises.

She successfully opened The May Fair Hotel’s critically acclaimed restaurant, Quince, and has graced the screen in numerous prime time cooking shows. As the authority on modern east-Mediterranean cooking, Rowe’s infectious personality and outspoken opinions are matched with outstanding culinary skills.

image courtesy of The May Fair Hotel, London

BRITAIN’S TOP FEMALE CHEF SPEAKS TO GLOBAL LIVING ABOUT HER ROLE AS A CELEBRITY CHEF AND JUDGE ON ABC’S NEWEST SHOW ‘TIME MACHINE CHEFS’.

GL: ABC's 'Time Machine Chefs' is all about adapting and excelling in a challenging environment from various time periods in history. What was the most ingenious use of a period cooking instrument that you saw from a contestant?

SR: I was very impressed with [contestant] Chris C.’s ability to start a fire using whatever he can find around him.

As a celebrity chef and guest judge on Time Machine Chefs, in your opinion what is the most important quality for an aspiring chef to have?

Imagination and boundless energy.

If you had to cook exclusively in one time period in history, which one would it be and why?

The greatest empire in the world: the Ottoman empire, the most powerful period during the ruling of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. The sheer over-indulgence and mind-blowing opulence!

How would you describe your management style in the kitchen?

Firm but fair.

What qualities do you look for in a great dining experience when you go to restaurants?

First of all, it’s always the food; I like different styles of food, cooked in the most creative ways, and then I like atmosphere and service.

image courtesy of The May Fair Hotel, London

If our readers want to make something simple, quick and delicious, what would you suggest?

A light omelet, using amazing, delicious eggs.

If you weren’t a chef, what would you want to be?

I would like to be an Olympian, either rowing or swimming.

What’s the last thing you cooked for yourself?

Kofte, or meatballs with feta cheese salad.

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patrick martEns GERMAN PATRICK MARTENS TALKS TO GLOBAL LIVING ABOUT BEING EXECUTIVE CHEF OF ONE OF BANGKOK’S MOST EXCLUSIVE RESTAURANTS: ZUMA.

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erman national Patrick Martens has been involved with Zuma, the award-winning contemporary Japanese restaurant group, since 2005. After working at Zuma London as Chef de Partie and Sous Chef, Martens subsequently moved to Hong Kong where he assisted with the opening of Zuma Hong Kong. There, Martens worked as Executive Sous Chef while also being involved in the culinary development and opening support for Zuma Miami in 2010.

Now Executive Chef at Zuma Bangkok, Martens considers himself much more a craftsman than an artist. His signature dish is grilled Hokkaido scallops with grated apple, wasabi and red shiso, done in Zuma’s Japanese izakaya style of informal eating and drinking with attention to detail and quality ingredients. Martens’ ardent creativity and love of simplicity matches perfectly with Zuma’s popular contemporary style that is known for being authentic but not traditional.

What is the most exciting aspect of your job? And, in contrast, what is the most challenging aspect of your job?

Certainly the chance to travel and live in different countries and cultures has been an exciting aspect of my job.

Professionally, the nearly unlimited opportunities that I have with Zuma regarding high-quality products, such as Wagyu beef and some of the best fish caught in the world.

Also the atmosphere that Zuma features in all locations, with open-plan kitchens and an instant connection with the dining room and guests, has been exciting to work in.

The hardest part over the last year was to ensure that Zuma was able to open in Bangkok. Thailand has very strict regulations on food imports, so I had to source a lot of products to produce our signature dishes; many of these products came to Thailand for the first time, such as various kinds of miso and soy sauce, and getting a fresh fish supply from Japan was challenging.

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both pages: images courtesy of zuma

GL: What attracted you to Zuma and/or Bangkok?

PM: When I joined the company, there was only one Zuma restaurant and the environment and innovative cuisine intrigued me right away. Without a doubt, I was also very attracted by the multi-cultural environment within the restaurant. Up until my first day at Zuma, I did not know anything about Japanese cuisine but got immediately interested and excited about it. Before Bangkok, I was based in Hong Kong for almost five years, so I was familiar with Asia, but without a doubt Bangkok is yet another culture and I enjoy discovering it.

How would you describe your management style in the kitchen?

Exact, strict with a huge sense of urgency, but humane, with as many smiles and as much support possible for all my chefs.

Who inspires you professionally?

Since joining the company, Rainer Becker, Zuma co-founder and renowned chef, has been a huge inspiration. In general, entrepreneurial and visionary people inspire me; they don’t necessarily have to be chefs or related to hospitality.

In your opinion, what is the most underrated ingredient? How do you like to incorporate it into dishes?

Miso, Japanese soybean paste.

There are hundreds of different styles and flavors to discover, each going back to ancient local traditions in the various cities and villages in Japan. So each different type has its own ‘personal’ history. In many Japanese restaurants, at least outside of Japan, they only use the two most-known varieties – aka and shiro miso – but even within those two there are many different types. At Zuma, we use at least five or six types across the menu in soups and salad dressings, but also to marinate meats and fish. A mugi miso-marinated baby chicken roasted on cedar wood, and lamb chops marinated with hatcho miso from the robota grill are dishes that stand out, because these Miso types are hardly known outside Japan.

photography courtesy of norwegian cruise line

If you weren’t a chef, what would you want to be?

I would probably be a writer, painter or tattoo artist – anything that would allow me to create on a daily basis. I probably would be a poor artist too; I love doing all these things much more than I am actually talented in it. In reverse, this is probably why I became a chef in the first place.

What’s the last thing you cooked for yourself?

Cooking something particular for myself is not something I like to do. On special occasions, I invite friends to my house and cook together with my wife for everyone. Due to a busy last year opening Zuma Bangkok, the last time that happened was Christmas and it was very traditional dishes such as a roasted duck, mashed potatoes and honey-roasted parsnips.

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EXPATRIATE LIFESTYLE expat adventures around the world

EXPAT CONCieRGE

A growing trend

By Molly Quell

Liane Dierckx is a veteran expat. She’s lived all over Europe. But it took the Belgian native nearly two years to get fully settled in the Netherlands And, as she admits, she already spoke Dutch.

Vowing to help her fellow transplants avoid her struggles, she launched Dierckx & Dierckx, a personal concierge service specializing in expats.

‘Concierge’ is French for ‘gatekeeper’ or ‘keeper of the keys’, a term traditionally reserved for a person employed by an apartment building or hotel who helps tenants do everything from carrying luggage to making dinner reservations. In apartments, they frequently serve as go-betweens to communicate the needs of the residents to the company managing the building; in hotels, they typically assist guests with travel arrangements, restaurant reservations and advice on local services.

As travel became more common in the 18th and 19th centuries, the demand for concierges increased. Hotel guests required staff to serve as a bridge between travelers and the local economy. Concierges spoke the local language and were familiar with local customs, in an era long before translation software and Lonely Planet.

By the middle of the 20th century, hospitals also began to recognize the value of the concierge, as people traveled farther for specialized medical care. These medical concierges also helped families organize and suggested local restaurants, allowing them to focus on caring for their loved ones.

As consumers became more familiar with

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personal services, such as finding a reliable housekeeper, pet sitter or sports clubs for you and your children. Dierckx & Dierckx even teaches you how to navigate the local public transit system.

“One of our employees will take you to the train station and demonstrate how to use the ticketing system,” Dierckx notes.

Beyond simply introducing expats to the Netherlands, her company caters to their long-term needs. As they make frequent trips home, her expat clients often rely on Dierckx to provide house- and pet-sitting services. Her company also assists in guiding expats through sometimes confusing cultural situations, such as selecting the proper gift for a Dutch employer.

A growing trend Personal concierge services are popular across Europe, especially in France. The United States and Asia have lagged behind in embracing the personal concierge concept, but the number of providers is growing as global companies require more employees to spend time abroad.

Concierge services, usually a perk enjoyed by the wealthy, have grown in popularity, and the demand for this niche market has begun spreading to the masses of the middle

previous page: image copyright andrey yurlov, 2012 used under license from Shutterstock. this page: image copyright dutourdumonde, 2012 used under license from Shutterstock.

the concierge concept, companies that specialized in the personal concierge market emerged. In today’s fast-paced world, these services have rapidly grown in popularity.

Unsurprisingly, much growth in the personal concierge market has been focused on expats, a group of people who, more than almost any other, need assistance with everyday tasks in a new culture.

Relocation is challenging, whether you’re moving to another city or another continent. This is particularly true of expats who struggle with a language barrier in addition to needing certain goods or services and not knowing where to look.

Dierckx experienced challenges relocating a mere 50 miles (80 km), from Brussels to The Hague, 10 years ago.

“Really getting settled,” she says, “took about one-and-ahalf years.” It was more than finding a place to live and good schools for her children. Dierckx struggled with things like finding a reliable housekeeper and a competent hairdresser.

Drawing from her experience, she knew there was a market for helping other expats find such services.

Standard relocation services, such as assistance with shipping your belongings and locating housing, can be invaluable to expats. Personal concierge companies like Dierckx & Dierckx, however, specialize in providing more

image copyright Hasloo Group Production Studio, 2012 used under license from Shutterstock.

class. Some companies have retained concierges for their employees. Mercedes Benz USA recently added concierge services as an employee benefit. Employees use a staff concierge to arrange travel plans, car maintenance and other appointments. The service is used heavily during the holiday season when employees enlist concierges to help with gift-purchasing and wrapping.

Accounting firms have also made use of the service during tax season, easing the demands on employees so they can focus on their work.

Despite recent economic downturns, demand for these services is growing.

Companies that provide many concierge services for onsite staff have found their employees are more productive when they aren’t distracted by these tasks.

Dierckx & Dierckx is also expanding its services to the corporate market by arranging for items to be cleaned and repaired, dropping off and picking up dry cleaning, and organizing staff parties.

Expats find the service especially helpful, as they often struggle to locate basic serviceproviders such as tailors, etc.

Fees paid to personal conciergservices also cover access to the concierge’s network of services. Dierckx & Dierckx works closely with 55 local companies to provide their services, ensuring that clients get topnotch experiences from customer-oriented businesses. This even extends to Dierckx’s 22-year-old daughter who arranges expat babysitting services.

“I want to have a good relationship with anyone my clients might be interested in,” says Dierckx, who occasionally gets odd client requests for services. Among the typical dogs and cats in her charge, for example, are goldfish, horses and two goats.

And she once had a client request a personal assistant to accompany them on a threemonth trip to several countries – with only three days’ notice.

When that happens, Dierckx networks until she finds a reputable company to fulfill the request – or she’ll do it herself.

“I have a degree in interior design, I’ve worked as a chocolatier, and I’ve owned several businesses,” she says. “I can get things done.”

For more information, visit www.dierckx-dierckx.nl.

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Ten ways to be a perfect host and stay sane

BY Ulrike Lemmin-Woolfrey

The time is right Be it family or friends who are knocking on your door – and especially if the potential guests are mere acquaintances – remember that you are entitled to say "no". The timing might be perfect for them, but if it clashes with a busy work schedule or sheer lack of enthusiasm on your side, the visit is going to leave both parties dissatisfied, and is best moved to a date that suits both of you.

Equally important are your spouse’s and kids' schedules, because if Grandma and Grandpa arrive during term time, for example, the after-school activities and homework may result in not enough together time.

Question their motives Make sure you know exactly what your guests want from their visit: is it purely sun and relaxation, shopping, sight-seeing, partying or spending as much time as possible with you and your family? Send them as many details about their destination as possible, together with suggestions from you, so they can do their research and figure out what they want to see and do. This way you can make sure that your guests get the most out of their visit yet you don’t try to force things on them that they are not 20

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interested in – or, conversely, make them miss out on.

Key signals Prepare a map with your house and important landmarks highlighted, have a spare key cut, get the number of a reliable taxi driver, or even suggest renting a car to your more adventurous guests and then set them free. Most people are quite happy to potter around town on their own, and it gives you valuable 'me-time' without having to worry about constantly entertaining your guests. Make sure their mobile phones are programmed with all the important numbers, they know a few basic phrases in the local lingo, they know how to ask for your address properly and they have enough local currency on them; then you can chill or do your work.

Plan ahead Find out what is happening in your city and surroundings during the stay, and plan in some activities. It may sound regimented, but a daily planner is a good idea – even a week-to-view, depending of the length of the stay. List your routine family events and fit in extra activities such as day trips, visits to malls and museums and eating out, and stick the planner up on the fridge. That way everybody knows the proposed itinerary and you can easily discuss potential changes or additions.

When in my House Obviously, we all try to bend over backwards to ensure our guests’ happiness, but if your visitors party all night while you have to get up early for work, it is

only a matter of time before it results in an argument or at least some serious sulking.

Equally, it is no good if you keep running out of foods set aside for the kids’ snack-boxes, or if you are reaching the limits on your drinks simply because some people can’t get enough. Make sure that soon after your guests’ arrival you take them through the house, explain the no-go areas and ask them to respect your personal schedule, i.e. to tone it down after 10 p.m., and leave the shower free for you at 7 a.m.

Be prepared If you are lucky enough to have a spare guestroom and bathroom, great, but even if you are just clearing out a corner of the study, prepare the space to make it comfortable for your guests.

People appreciate their own space, be it an empty drawer, a few hangers in the wardrobe or simply a place to spread their suitcase. Add little extras such as a guidebook or magazine, a bottle of water, a box of tissues, a spare beach bag and some flip-flops, and small toiletries, including sunscreen. Not only do these small touches make people feel welcome, but they also stop them helping themselves to your stuff.

Food, glorious food Some people are easy to please, but nowadays you are more likely to have a guest with a food intolerance or strong dislike. Find out in advance if any of them are vegetarians, vegans, diabetics, or simply people trying to

image copyright aricvyhmeister, 2012 used under license from Shutterstock.

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eing an expat in a more or less exotic location is often seen as an invitation to friends and family to visit you for an extended and cheap vacation. While visitors from back home are always, or mostly, welcome, they often forget that the expat in question is not actually on vacation but has a life to lead. But there is no need to despair, as both, the daily chores and the visitors, can be dealt with without harming either – as long as some simple house rules are set and adhered to.

watch their weight, and stock up on some foods suitable for all. Some like yogurt for breakfast while others hanker after a certain type of cereal; be the perfect host and have their favorites in the cupboard, and then let them help themselves.

Organize regular trips to restaurants to let visitors experience the local cuisine.

Depending on the length of their stay and your budget, you may want to limit time spent in the kitchen preparing complicated meals.

long. Obviously, it is probably quite a distance to wherever you are, but most likely you’re not living in a Jane-Austentype mansion where months-long houseguests go virtually unnoticed.

Discuss return dates openly before the tickets are booked, or, if there are no signs of anybody packing their suitcase, either feign an upcoming business trip, the annual visit of the pest control man or the occurrence of mumps going around school to hurry things along.

"Communication is the most important aspect of being a good host. Listen to what your visitors want but, by the same token, tell them if they are doing something that irritates you."

image copyright auremar 2012, used under license from Shutterstock.

Kids rule the house Whether you have kids or the guests are bringing their own, there is no more serious threat to a happy visit than a bunch of pesky and unhappy kids. If your children are giving up their bedroom or have to share, make sure you acknowledge their sacrifice. To save your kids from having to share their favorite possessions, buy some cheap, suitable toys and books for the young visitors – it will give them ‘their own things’ in a strange house. For outings, try the ‘one for you, one for us’ approach: a theme park one day and an adult day-trip the next; at malls, drop them off at the designated fun-places for children while you enjoy a quiet coffee. If your kids have their own scheduled activities, take your guests along. It might help them to feel more involved with your expat life if they sit through a game of football with you.

Look who’s talking Communication is the most important aspect of being a good host. Listen to what your visitors want but, by the same token, tell them if they are doing something that irritates you. Keep it light and humorous though. “We’ll have a party of cockroaches dancing on the table if you leave your dirty plate out overnight” works much better than: “I am so sick and tired of being treated like your personal slave and expected to tidy up after you all day!” If you are having an assertiveness problem, ask your kids or spouse to do the dirty work for you: “Mom will have a complete fit if she sees you leaving your shoes on in the house” tends to get around the problem quite smoothly.

Past the sell-by date There is much truth in the saying that family and fish start to stink after three days. No matter how pleased you are to have people come, don’t agree to openended visits, or ones that are simply too

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ON THE COVER feature piece

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Global Living Magazine

Business or

Pleasure

By Alison Cavatore

Whether you are circling the globe for business or enjoying the scenery on a more leisurely journey, exploring the world in some of the most elite cars and aircrafts can instantly take your experience to the next level. The world’s most innovative car and aircraft manufacturers continue to design and produce the ultimate in luxury, redefining what it means to ride in style.

Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead CoupĂŠ Global Living Magazine 23

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lobal Living explored prime examples of these luxurious options for business and pleasure, and our quest has once again led us to the conclusion that travel is not always just about the destination, but that the journey can be equally as important and memorable … if you do it right.

Let us give you a taste of the most exclusive ways to travel for business in the Ghost Extended Wheelbase and the Gulfstream 550, and the ultimate in leisure travel in the Phantom Drophead Coupé and the Cessna Citation X.

LUXURY CARS:

Whether you are going to an important meeting or simply showing your visiting business associates around town, the incomparable RollsRoyce Ghost Extended Wheelbase is the perfect option for wheeling and dealing in style. Hand-built in Goodwood, England, the Ghost Extended Wheelbase is striking and agile with a capacious interior, courtesy of an increase in 6.69 inches in length over the already ample interior space that rear-seat passengers enjoy in the Ghost. With a panoramic sunroof as a standard addition, passengers are bathed in natural light, instantly enhancing the overall interior ambiance.

Offering increased interior space and trademark Rolls-Royce performance, the Ghost Extended Wheelbase presents the best of both worlds for even the most discerning customers. With the dynamic prowess upon which the reputation of the Ghost has been built, this model promises to tempt even the most ardent drivers out of the front seat to savor the passenger experience.

With flowing lines dominated by majestic ‘yacht-line’ styling, the Ghost Extended Wheelbase features uninterrupted surfaces, powerful shoulders and flanks, front door-mounted Teflon-coated umbrellas, a modern take on the famous Rolls-Royce grille, a long hood and short front overhang, an elegant tail, sides curved inward and vanes set back into the opening to resemble a jet intake.

Escorting business associates into the Ghost Extended Wheelbase is facilitated through extended coach doors that open to 89 degrees to create an effortless and immediate wave of serenity. Once inside, it’s business as usual with seats slightly curved to allow those inside to turn more easily to face each other. Legroom is significantly enhanced in this model, with knee-room more than doubled from 6.29 inches to 12.9 inches, thereby encouraging occupants to relax and stretch out in lounge seats at the touch of a button.

Powered by the 6.6-liter twin turbo-charged V12 engine of Ghost and delivering the standard 563 hp effortlessly on an intelligent air suspension system, the Ghost Extended Wheelbase can go from zero to 62 mph in five seconds, with a top speed of 155 mph, ensuring that you make every meeting or special occasion on time and in style.

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Rolls-Royce Ghost Extended Wheelbase Global Living Magazine

previous page: image courtesy of Rolls-Royce Motor Company this page: images courtesy of Rolls-Royce Motor Company

BUSINESS: ROLLS-ROYCE GHOST EXTENDED WHEELBASE

PLEASURE: ROLLS-ROYCE PHANTOM DROPHEAD COUPÉ

images courtesy of Rolls-Royce Motor Company

If you are looking to feel the full effect of hard-earned downtime, there’s really no comparison when it comes to the comfort, power and design of the Phantom Drophead Coupé. The two-door, fourseat convertible is a less formal interpretation of classic Rolls-Royce design, but its exterior lines echo the timeless styling of brand and, by using the lightweight rigidity of an all-aluminum spaceframe, it marries modern technology to a sleek, streamlined, convertible body.

Carefully crafted to be aesthetically pleasing yet practical too, the Phantom Drophead Coupé features wood, leather, chrome and brushed steel where most appropriate, and an interior design emphasizing the airy openness of top-down motoring, embracing the elements and creating a stunning, social environment.

As part of the new Phantom Series II, which also includes the Phantom Saloon and the Phantom Coupé, recently debuted at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, the Phantom Drophead Coupé features a striking new front end with re-styled bumpers and rectangular light apertures. The new Adaptive LED Headlamps give the car an impressive modern look that is instantly recognizable day or night.

The Phantom experience is intended to be effortless, so new driver-assistance technologies and a modern user interface with re-designed multi-media controllers have been introduced for the Phantom Series II models. The new satellite navigation system has been fully updated with functions that include 3D maps with landscape topography, guided tours and enhanced points of interest, as well as composite route planning to ensure the ultimate experience for any journey.

For those wanting to sit back and enjoy the ride, the Phantom Drophead Coupé’s convivial interior evokes the feeling of being aboard an elegant motor yacht. The exterior can be customized to your personal preference, with 16 colors to choose from, or you can even mix any color you want from a swatch. For the ultimate car enthusiast, Rolls-Royce’s Bespoke program offers 44,000 hues. There is also an optional brushed steel bonnet featuring a hand-applied brushed finish, giving the hood a soft sheen.

For more information, visit www.rolls-royce.com.

Global Living Magazine 25 Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupé

PRIVATE JETS:

Since 1994, Air Royale International Inc. has led the industry on a global basis, arranging private air charter for renowned entertainers and celebrities, Fortune-ranked companies, diplomats, CEOs, heads of state, Hollywood studios, high-networth individuals and clientele who live and enjoy the expat lifestyle.

With a worldwide network of operators, which encompass every type of private aircraft, Air Royale can arrange any type of on-demand air charter.

Although Air Royale began as an air charter services company more than 18 years ago, with its headquarters in Los Angeles, the company’s president and CEO, Wayne J. Rizzi, says, “We still provide that same ‘boutique-style of service’ to each client, where each client knows they’re part of an elite coterie. Over

Gulfstream 550Living Magazine 26 Global

the years, we’ve become a respected, global air charter provider with additional offices in New York, London and Hong Kong.

However, it’s still all about personal service and air safety that keeps clientele coming back, rather than shopping around.”

Rizzi says he knows that it is necessary to keep up with the expat lifestyle in the 21st century.

“I believe that’s part of the reason we’ve been so successful in expansion in the 21st century, as expat living is a reality, not a farfetched idea,” he adds.

Air Royale’s air charter experts make securing a private jet a truly hassle-free process. By knowing the ins and outs of complicated routings, customs checks, foreign handlers, passports, pet documentation, special requests and VIP service – including arranging for a personal in-flight pet attendant or an in-flight

images courtesy of Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation

spa experience – Air Royale ensures that passengers’ specific requirements and desires are met. From private Learjets to Gulfstreams to Boeing 747s, Air Royale’s real-time database tracks more than 5,500 aircraft worldwide.

Air safety is always a top priority at Air Royale, and Rizzi says, “We only utilize operators that have passed stringent, on-site audits and verified safety-checks by Wyvern Ltd. or ARGUS International Inc." For each air charter request, Air Royale’s policy dictates checking operators’ aircraft, pilots’ medical and history records, aircraft maintenance, and much more.

The following private jet aircrafts are recommended by the experts at Air Royale to make sure your business and pleasure needs are not only met but exceeded when traveling.

For more information, visit www.AirRoyale.com.

BUSINESS: GULFSTREAM 550

The Gulfstream 550 (G550) ultra-long-range business jet is ideal for international reach. With a range of 6,750 nautical miles at Mach 0.80 and a high-speed cruise capability of Mach 0.87, the G550 easily links Washington, D.C., with Dubai, London with Singapore and Tokyo with Paris. Additionally, the aircraft’s fresh-air system continually fills the cabin with 100-percent fresh air while 14 large oval windows contribute abundant sunlight.

Together with quiet cabin sound levels and a low cabin altitude of 6,000 feet at the maximum aircraft altitude of 51,000 feet, this helps to increase productivity for those looking to utilize the flying time for business, and combat the accompanying jet lag and fatigue.

Depending on the cabin configuration, the G550 can seat up to 18 passengers in comfort. The cabin has berthable single seats, plus a three-person berthable divan with telescoping footrests and electric window shades. The G550’s cabin combines productivity with exceptional comfort through its four distinct living areas and three temperature zones. Maintaining contact with the home office is a breeze with standard features such as a credenza that houses a fax machine and gasper-cooled wine storage.

Other standard features include a printer; a wireless local area network and satellite communications; LED reading and table lights; audio system speakers; console tables; two colortouchscreen remote controls; compact multi-disc player; two dual DVD players; a 24-inch LCD monitor in the forward cabin and a 19-inch monitor in the aft cabin; auxiliary audio-video inputs; cabin audio system with noise-cancelling headphones for each passenger; and passenger flight information systems with worldwide maps.

The G550’s full-service galley is a work of functional art. China and flatware with fitted storage, and crystal displayed in lighted compartments is just for starters. The galley hosts hot/cold meal and beverage service, a large sink with hot/cold water, a hightemperature oven and a microwave oven, two coffee makers, two large ice drawers, solid-surface countertops with a pullout work surface and cutting board, snack, beverage and supplies storage, color touchscreen control monitor, cold food storage with adjustable shelves and a water sterilization system.

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The Cessna Citation X, a midsize private jet, seats eight passengers in ultimate comfort with double-club seating. Should you need some real downtime, the seats recline completely to accommodate sleep.

The Citation X has a 3,070-nauctical-mile range and is the fastest civilian aircraft in the world, cruising just shy of the sound barrier at Mach .92. With its maximum operating altitude of 51,000 feet, flying above weather is no problem. In addition, its storage

Cessna Citation X 28 Global Living Magazine

compartment is located in the tailcone, which is heated, pressurized and large enough to hold a minivan-load of luggage.

The Citation X’s full-length, stand-up center aisle leads to a lavish private dressing room – with a vanity that has a washbasin and a wide countertop – including a toilet and a large closet.

The Citation X's cabin supports a variety of configurations, typically, with eightpassenger, double-club seating that has a right-hand forward refreshment center.

images courtesy of Cessna Aircraft Company

PLEASURE: Cessna Citation X

GLOBAL EVENTS

a peek inside exclusive events happening around the world

Pierce Brosnan on the red carpet at the 69th International Venice Film Festival.

images courtesy of la Biennale di Venezia – ASAC

69th International Venice Film Festival August 29 - September 8, 2012

Every summer, the best of the showbiz world flock to Venice, Italy, to partake in the prestigious Venice Film Festival, which showcases the year’s greatest international films. This year was also the 80th anniversary of its inaugural event, which was first held at the Hotel Excelsior on Venice’s Lido in 1932. To mark the occasion, la Biennale screened 10 rare vintage films from its archives for a once-in-a-lifetime experience for its attendees. As one of the most exclusive film festivals, the event brings in renowned celebrities, filmmakers and industry elites. This year, the red carpet was flooded with A-list stars such as Pierce Brosnan, Kate Hudson, Zac Efron, Selena Gomez, Kasia Smutniak, Spike Lee, Wynona Ryder and more.

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Alberto Barbera and Ismael Ivo

Riz Ahmed

Coco Blaisdell of Cocotay Design and Robert Marc

DJ Bob Sinclair

Lovi Poe

Alberto Rosi 30 Barbera, GlobalFrancesco Living Magazine and Paolo Baratta

Sosuke Takaoka

Zac Efron

Kasia Smutniak

Liev Schreiber

images courtesy of la Biennale di Venezia – ASAC

Olga Kurylenko and Danny Huston

Mira Nair

James Franco

Selena Gomez

Trine Dyrholm

Marina and Carlo Ripa di Meana

images courtesy of la Biennale di Venezia – ASAC

Shia LaBeouf

Violante Placido

Spike Lee

Wynona Ryder

Global Living Magazine 31 Kate Hudson

September 5-7, 2012 Now in its seventh consecutive year, Salon Privé is the U.K.’s most prestigious automotive event and the Chubb Insurance Concours d’Elégance is a calendar highlight among enthusiasts, collectors and buyers of modern and classic super cars. Featuring world exclusives and British debuts from the realms of motorsport, automotive and luxury goods, the event took place at Syon Park in west London from September 5th -7th and showcased a range of new features and exhibits, with more supercar and premium brands than ever before. This year’s gathering involved special exhibits such as one dedicated to memorable cars from the movies, including some rare DeLorean examples and a number of vehicles from the Bond franchise of 007 films. In addition to guest appearances from pop stars, Olympic athletes and new products from leading brands, debuts from Aston Martin, Bentley, Overfinch, Rimac and Tushek marked the opening of the 3-day affair. The Best of Show prize went to the 1950 Ferrari 160 MM Barchetta, entered by Dudley and Sally Masson-Styrron.

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photography by linda sharkey www.fashioninsideout.co.uk images courtesy of Stuart Price/Salon Privé

Salon Privé

images courtesy of Stuart Price/Salon Privé images courtesy of Stuart Price/Salon Privé

Salon Privé Managing Director Andrew Bagley and Sales Director David Bagley

Best of Show winnersGlobal Living Magazine Sally and Dudley Masson-Styrron

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GLOBAL TRAVEL

exploring the world one trip at a time

Toronto Welcomes Winter

by Turning up the Cultural Heat

BY AISHA ASHRAF

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Global Living Magazine

images courtesy of The City of Toronto

Culture Crescendo

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ou’d be forgiven for thinking that Toronto goes into hibernation as the temperature drops, but nothing could be further from the truth – it blazes with a conflagration of cultural events that brighten even the darkest days of winter. With a social scene this vibrant, it’s well worth braving the elements for a piece of the action.

The Toronto International Film Festival cushions the shock of the nine-to-five after a summer of lakeside living, with film screenings and a slew of celebrity visitors. But by the end of September, Hollywood’s heavenly bodies have vacated their plush hotel suites to be replaced by a meteor shower of best-selling authors and literati, in town for the International Festival of Authors.

The Toronto International Antiquarian Book Fair whets the literary appetite and gets the ball rolling. A three-day event running from October 12th to 14th at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, it attracts bibliophiles and collectors from across North America and Europe to peruse and purchase rare books.

Booksellers display and sell limited editions, maps and manuscripts, signed books and unusual literature on a variety of topics. All exhibitors are members of the International League of Antiquarian Booksellers.

image courtesy of The City of Toronto

The Toronto International Film Festival cushions the shock of the nine-tofive after a summer of lakeside living, with film screenings and a slew of celebrity visitors.

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image courtesy of The City of Toronto

Whether you prefer Kobe beef, caviar from the Caspian Sea or a vegetarian diet, there’s something to tempt the fussiest of taste buds.

some of Toronto’s top restaurants. ‘Tutored tastings’ offer a chance to absorb the expertise of respected sommeliers and foodies as they discuss the pairings of food and wine that are presented. Whether you prefer Kobe beef, caviar from the Caspian Sea or a vegetarian diet, there’s something to tempt the fussiest of taste buds and you’ll come away filled with delicacies and a renewed appreciation for the culinary experience.

The ‘official’ start to Christmas

A mere four days later we’re thrust into the bookish bedlam of the International Festival of Authors, which runs from the 18-28th of October at the Harbourfront Centre.

Inaugurated in 1980, it brings together the world’s best writers of contemporary literature for readings, interviews, lectures, roundtable discussions and book signings.

Expect to find authors prominent in a range of genres, from fiction and children’s books to biographies, graphic novels and more – among them, the finalists for this year’s Scotiabank Giller Prize, the Governor General’s Literary Awards and the Rogers Writers Trust Fiction Prize. This year’s event will focus on science and speculative fiction, and you can bet the late great Ray Bradbury will be there in spirit.

For 45 years, Toronto has kicked off the holiday season by launching a month-long series of free events and countless Saturday night skating parties culminating in a New Year’s Eve extravaganza of pyrotechnic magnificence.

Late November heralds the beginning of this well-loved Hogtown tradition known as the Cavalcade of Lights.

The opening night dazzles revelers with concerts, fireworks and lighting displays, plus the opportunity to skate under a canopy of glittering stars suspended from the Freedom Arches over Nathan Phillips Square's famous outdoor ice rink in the center of downtown Toronto.

The city’s giant, official Christmas tree is lit with thousands of LED lights in red, white and silver and, in the following weeks, more than a dozen neighborhood communities make their contribution to the cavalcade with similar celebrations.

It’s a Toronto tradition you have to be a part of.

With nine city museums, 50 ballet and dance companies, six opera companies and two symphony orchestras keeping the cultural circulatory system pulsing, Toronto prides itself on staying warm and welcoming throughout the winter. But don’t take my word for it – come and see for yourself!

image courtesy of The City of Toronto

Words alone can’t sustain you through a Toronto winter Winter weather stokes a desire to cosset and comfort, and what better way than with the opulent pleasure found in fine food and wine.

October draws to a close with the heartening promise of epicurean delights in the form of the Grand Cru Culinary Wine Festival. In the exclusive comfort of Toronto’s most luxurious private homes, renowned chefs and respected vintners combine their knowledge to create a fine dining experience for philanthropists, business leaders and the brightest minds in medical research. This lavish event is now in its eighth year and has raised in excess of $10 million. Last year’s guests, among them Kiefer Sutherland and Lisa Ray, were welcomed to the charity auction by an Asian elephant and a Bengal tiger.

Continuing with the gastronomic theme, the Gourmet Food & Wine Expo showcases eclectic tastes from all over the world and runs from November 15-18th at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. It offers guests an unparalleled opportunity to sample over 1,500 fine wines, beers and spirits, and to taste signature dishes and gourmet foods from

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crown jewel Cape Yamu: Wrap-Around Beauty and Luxury

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images courtesy of Campbell Kane

ANNE O’CONNELL EXPLORES THE EAST COAST OF PHUKET, THAILAND AND DISCOVERS AN EXCLUSIVE PARADISE HIDEAWAY AT CAPE YAMU.

artwork by claire milner

Cape Yamu Global Living Magazine

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sale is listed for approximately $4 million, while others are up for resale starting at $6 million.

Fast-forward to 2012 and Cape Yamu, an ultra-luxurious community on a gated, private peninsula, encompassing three developments, is now a reality. Seasonal and year-round residents are starting to settle in to their homes that have been dubbed Phuket Luxury 2.0 by Phuket Gazette Property Watch columnist Bill Barnett.

The Residences Cape Yamu’s villas come in two villa designs and three different interior design packages with four or five bedrooms.

Designers and architects on the project had a shared vision to keep Cape Yamu authentically Thai.

“Our architect insists that everything is from Thailand, all natural, handmade local materials right down to the tile

floors,” said Henry.

The design incorporates open space, breezeways and a natural fit into the surrounding landscape – a philosophy for which the designers are famous. The airy, spacious, Thai-style villas are 15,500 – 21,204 square feet (interior and exterior combined) nestled on 2-5 rai (1-2.5 acres) of land each, all with spectacular views of the Andaman Sea. Beautiful, openconcept kitchens flow onto outdoor living spaces, popular in Thai culture, with infinity pools complete with swim-up bars.

Each villa features a 1,399-square-foot lounge and dining area with 22.9-foot vaulted ceilings, with floor-to-ceiling picture windows as the pivot point of the architectural style with unique variations throughout, depending on the size and location.

The bedrooms are so generous in size that the children can have their very own

images courtesy of Campbell Kane

W

anting to escape the harried lifestyle of Hong Kong nine years ago, Campbell Kane partners, Ian Henry and Peter Hamilton, had a vision to build the type of homes on the island oasis of Phuket that they both would want to live in with their families. They combed the island for the perfect locale and came across Cape Yamu, a 200-rai (79acre) peninsula on the east coast of Phuket surrounded by 1.8 miles of white, sandy beach. They knew they had found their crown jewel.

They proceeded to bring together the collaborators who would help bring their dream to fruition: worldrenowned interior designer Philippe Starck from Yoo by Starck; international awardwinning architect Jean-Michel Gathy from Denniston International Architects & Planners; and hotelier Adrian Zecha of GHM Hotels, founder of Regent International Hotels and Aman Resort.

“We have three aspects to our property development here: The Residences at Cape Yamu, 28 large luxury villas with all but one sold; the hotel villas, the next phase of our development, to be sold as part of the Point Yamu Hotel by COMO; and finally the third phase which are larger villas on large plots of land to be sold on one of the most exclusive headlands of Phuket,” said Hamilton. “All of this real estate benefits from the services from or access to The Point Yamu, a luxury hotel that is an integral part of the overall development.”

The property practically sold out before the first foundation was laid and the Residences at Cape Yamu was close to completion when the economic crisis hit in 2007. The construction of the hotel was temporarily suspended but has now resumed with gusto and is scheduled to open in the autumn of 2013.

In 2009, the New York Times named Phuket the luxury destination of the year as its allure began to rebound following the economic downturn and the devastation of the tsunami. That same year, the development on the Cape had already started to reclaim a buzz in the luxury real estate market. In fact, the last villa at the Residences at Cape Yamu that remains for

jungle gym, foosball or air hockey table, which Henry’s teenage son’s room sported.

When asked what makes The Residences at Cape Yamu different from other places on the island, Henry answers without missing a beat. In his opinion, it’s the panoramic view.

“There’s really no point if there’s anywhere you’re sitting that you can’t see the sea,” he said.

Henry and Hamilton searched high and low until they literally stumbled upon this piece of undeveloped land that jutted out into the water.

Henry smiles as he watches the rain dancing on the deck of the infinity pool.

“It’s even beautiful when it’s raining,” he said. “After nine years I never tire of this view. Every time I walk from my office to the kitchen, I have to stop and look.”

images courtesy of Campbell Kane

The Hotel Occupying approximately half of the estate overlooking the famous Phang Nga Bay, The Point Yamu Hotel will be a focal point of the exclusive Cape community. Hotel guests and residents will enjoy the delicacies of several international restaurants, soak up the pleasures of the headland spa and, of course, the ever-present sea breezes sweeping through open courtyards and breezeways.

The Yamu will boast 69 deluxe rooms with a wrap-around view that is second to none. In addition, private villas, now available for sale, will range in price from $1.5 million to $6 million and up.

There will be nine two-bedroom, 11 three-bedroom and 10 fourbedroom villas for sale.

The Restaurant Local knowledge will be the only way you’ll find Breeze, one of the many hidden gems on the estate.

There’s no sign but, as you head down Soi Yamu, just watch for the bamboo screen on the right before you reach the gatehouse for the community.

Breeze’s head Chef is Cheryl

Chef Cheryl Johnson

Johnson, a Filipino-American who started her culinary career as an extern at the famous Restaurant Toqué in Montreal, Canada and worked her way up over 10 years to Sous Chef. With her head chef’s blessing, she was ready to take on her own restaurant when the Cape Yamu team found her.

Johnson makes sure Breeze is a culinary adventure no matter how many times you dine there.

“I’m in a whole different world now; even the fish is different,” said Johnson. “Every day is a new discovery and I want my customers to feel the same way.”

She has happily embraced the Global Living Magazine

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The Surrounding Area Cape Yamu is on the east coast of Phuket and brings a more private, tranquil living experience, yet is only a short taxi ride away from the livelier nightlife of the popular tourist beach of Patong or the commercial center of Phuket Town. It is also a stone’s throw to three premier golf courses and two boat marinas: Boat Lagoon and Royal Phuket Marina.

What makes it so attractive is not only that it is in the notorious ‘land of smiles’ but that it is also located on a spit of land steeped in the natural beauty of the indigenous flora and fauna of Thailand and surrounded by the emerald green of the

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Andaman Sea. It has been called one of the most spectacular vistas in the world.

To the north is Phang Nga Bay, and the islands of Naka Noi, Naka Yai and Raet in the foreground. Looking eastward one can see Koh Yao Noi, Koh Yao Yai and Phi Phi Islands with the Krabi hills in the background. To the south you’ll find Rang Noi, Rang Yai and Maphrao Island as well as the entire Sapham Bay. Foreign Ownership Laws about foreign ownership of Thai property can be complex. Under Thai law, foreign nationals are not allowed to own land; however, the purchase of a residential property typically involves a longterm leasehold of 30 years for the land, renewable twice for a total of 90 years. The other option is to own property through a Limited Liability Company.

A Tranquil Escape Cape Yamu owners come from all over the world. Henry claims that they do very little advertising yet somehow people just find them. In his canvassing of property available on the island, he and Hamilton found so many developments with zero lot lines where you can almost reach out and touch your neighbor. They both liked a more open space and green area and believed the majority of others would too.

Admittedly, it’s not for everyone. During a tour of a villa, one potential buyer looking at the expansive yard behind the villa, overlooking the Andaman Sea said, “What

will I do with all this outdoor space?”

Henry just smiled because he knew the Cape wasn’t right for this particular buyer. His gaze fell on the trampoline sitting on one side of his backyard, likely remembering the enjoyment his own family has had in the expanse of lush green grass and foliage.

Central to the development is a clubhouse, which includes a restaurant/ bar, delicatessen, full-service spa, tennis courts and a gym for those who choose to periodically escape the peace and serenity of their own backyard to socialize with friends and neighbors.

Looking to the Future According to a Colliers International report from May 2011, more direct flights into Phuket and increased capacity at Phuket International Airport due to a planned airport expansion will prove a “significant drive in new demand” for real estate on the island. The report also states, “While Europeans were the mainstay in the past, the buying dynamic has shifted to newer markets such as Russia, Singapore, Hong Kong and the Middle East.” The eclectic mix of residents on Cape Yamu certainly supports this hypothesis.

For more information on the Cape Yamu project, email info@campbellkane.com or call +66 (0) 8 9727 5119. www.capeyamu.com

images courtesy of Campbell Kane

challenge and relishes the everyday changes she makes to her carefully-crafted menu, depending on what she happens to find at the local market that’s in season.

“You’ve got to get there early,” she noted. “If you wait until even 7:30 a.m., everything’s gone.”

Reservations are not required but are recommended. A typical lunch menu will feature asparagus soup, pork terrine with apricot compote, coriander and grilled bread or a tempura white fish and shrimp flavored with local herbs and spices. Dinner plates simmer with beef, poultry or seafood flavored with Johnson’s skillful fusion of multiple cuisines.

Everything on the mouth-watering menu is homemade with fresh local meat and produce, from the tagliatelle pasta to the Italian sausage meatballs.

hotel review London, england

No. 11 Cadogan Gardens

Carolyn Pearson, award-winning, innovative web-start-up entrepreneur, CEO and founder of Maiden-Voyage.com, visited London’s No. 11 Cadogan Gardens hotel to explore what the unique urban hideaway in the exclusive Knightsbridge neighborhood has to offer. As a member of the internationally recognized luxury boutique brand, Small Luxury Hotels of the World™, No. 11 Cadogan Gardens will have those seeking an intimate yet luxurious experience feeling right at home.

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images courtesy of No. 11 Cadogan Gardens

sk me to describe my perfect romantic setting and it would have to be a beautiful old historic building, lots of dark oak, a huge fourposter bed, deep red velvet drapes, a myriad of textures and mood lighting. Add to that the champagne and scattered rose petals and you are on your way to imagining the practically regal boudoir of the Velazquez suite at

London’s No. 11 Cadogan Gardens.

Of course we all have different tastes, and that is exactly why every room, and indeed every space, within this stunning boutique hotel is purposely different whilst blending seamlessly – taking you on the most indulgent visual discovery.

While many of the features are traditional, there is more than a hint of modern convenience with

No. 11 Cadogan Gardens Address: 11 Cadogan Gardens London, City of London, Greater London SW3 2RJ, United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0) 20 ­7730 7000 Email: info@no11cadogangardens.com Web: www.no11cadogangardens.com

plush marble bathrooms, Molten Brown toiletries and in-room technology, including free Wi-Fi, iPod docking stations and plasma screen TVs. Built in the 19th century and originally three Victorian townhouses, No. 11 Cadogan Gardens was previously a private club and, over the years, has been host to celebrities, aristocrats and politicians. The houses have once again been restored to a five-star luxury hotel – a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World™ – and styled with impeccable taste while retaining many of the original features and paintings.

The public rooms are delightfully intimate and make one feel instantly at home. The library is cozy, well-stocked, and a wonderful sanctuary in which to while away a few hours. The glamorous drawing room bathed in creams and golds and the bright airy conservatory are the perfect settings to take afternoon tea, and one mustn’t forget to sample a No.11 Cocktail in the glamorous film-noir-inspired bar, complete with red chandeliers and velvet seating.

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Situated in quiet mews away from the hustle and bustle of London but still in the heart of Chelsea, No. 11 Cadogan Gardens is just a few minutes’ walk from Sloane Square.

Located within striking distance of Harrods, Harvey Nichols and top designer shops such as Louis Vuitton, Cartier and Chanel, the hotel is an obvious choice as a wellheeled shopping base. Soliman Khaddour, General Manager, tells me that his concierge regularly guides guests to the local Saatchi Gallery, Cadogan Hall (home to the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra) or to the Fine Food Market held on Saturdays in Duke of York Square.

According to Soliman, there is no one type of visitor to the hotel; some are indeed families and, while the home-away-fromhome feel would certainly attract them, I would equally recommend it for an indulgent shopping trip with the girls and have absolutely no reservation in recommending this stunning boutique hotel as a base for a romantic break. What a stroke of ingenuity: by its very nature, No. 11 Cadogan Gardens is something for everybody.

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images courtesy of No. 11 Cadogan Gardens

Having been tempted out of my chamber for what promised to be a delicious dinner, the hotel’s restaurant did not disappoint.

Maintaining No. 11’s penchant for different themes, the space is airy and sophisticated, and the walls are adorned with old blackand-white photographs of famous actors, models, artists, media icons and sports stars.

It is believed that the photographs were shot in New York’s Studio 54, but much like the art found in the hotel, nobody really knows the history of many of the articles that remain.

The whole dining experience was an elegant affair with attentive but discreet service, fresh tasty ingredients imaginatively put together, crisp white linen and quality china. No. 11 Cadogan Gardens can also accommodate private dining, including al fresco on the outdoor terrace that can seat up to 12 people.

of the Dead actually spans two days: November 1st and 2nd; the first is a day to celebrate children, and the second commemorates adults. The Dia de los Muertos is a combination of ancient Aztec traditions and the catholic All Saints’ Day, brought along by the Spanish colonialists during the conquest of the Americas. It is a medley of solemn prayer for those who have passed, of colorful festivities and of sometimes-raucous gatherings.

It is an astonishing and beautiful celebration to behold.

The Day of the Dead is a spectacular time to visit Mexico City, as you can observe or take part in the festive atmosphere. The city is decorated from one end to the other; the main plaza (Zocalo) is a feverish whirlwind of vivid colors and costumes. An astounding sight is the presence of skulls and skeletons everywhere you look. It may seem macabre that these are the main decorative themes of the Day of the Dead, but they are not your usual skulls and skeletons.

They’re not meant to be frightening or evil; they are instead colorful, lively, and in some instances even tasty. These skulls and skeletons – some in the form of sugary sweets and special baked bread – are featured throughout the city, from the decorations strung across trees and telephone poles, to storefront displays and revelers’ costumes.

The sweet treats are not a typical type of candy or snack; they are miniature skulls made out of sugar and decorated with brightly-colored An exploration of Mexico’s Dia de los Muertos – the real meaning behind the icing. Children can ask to have spirited and colorful celebrations and what you can expect if you go. their names written in icing on the

BY DOUNIA FAYAD skull, and teachers often distribute these to their students on the Day of the Dead. It may seem odd to s October comes around, the Toussaint, or All Saints’ Day; in Mexico it is nibble on a sugar skull, but they United States prepares itself known as the Day of the Dead, or Dia de los are definitely worth trying if you’d for Halloween. Stores stock all Muertos. If you wish to see a truly unique like to experience the Day of the sorts of disguises and children perspective on commemorating lost loved excitedly choose their costumes. ones, the Dia de los Muertos will not disappoint. Dead to the fullest. If those little confections do not strike your fancy, Candy corn makes its appearance once again, The term ‘Day of the Dead’ may seem you can always try the specialty and households prepare for the arrival of misleading for a couple of reasons. Firstly, trick-or-treaters as October 31 looms on the and perhaps most importantly, the Day of the bread that bakeries make for the Day of the Dead. The Pan de Muertos horizon. In other parts of the world, however, Dead is a celebration of life. It is a moment is sweet bread, dusted with sugar, it is the following day that is more important. of joyous gathering to remember loved ones and is usually available in the weeks In France, for instance, November 1st is La who have passed away. Secondly, the Day

image courtesy of The Mexican Tourism Board

A Celebration of Life: Dia de los Muertos

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in their commemoration here, but most of them are lively gatherings. Family and friends join together to honor their loved ones and rejoice in the memories of them. They bring food and drink to share amongst themselves, but also as an offering to the dead, placing their favorite food and drink upon their grave or altar. When it is children they are commemorating, their favorite toys may be placed on the grave, so that they may have them in the afterlife. Sometimes, elaborate and beautifully colorful altars are constructed around the graves for these offerings, decorated with flowers and paintings. Cemeteries light up with the glow of candles and the merry voices of families carry over the graves of loved ones.

Music from portable radios, amateur musicians and official Mariachis floats throughout the grounds, mingling with the chatter. The usually

images courtesy of The Mexican Tourism Board

leading up to the Day of the Dead. It is oddly shaped, like a round bun with bone-shaped pieces draped across it.

Despite its somewhat peculiar design, I would truly recommend tasting the Pan de Muertos; it is a delicate and delicious treat.

As delectable as these morsels may be for your taste-buds, make sure to indulge your visual senses as well, as there is much to be seen during these festivities. The paper cutouts that hang above the city streets are vibrantly colored and flutter gaily in the wind. They’ll catch your eye with every color imaginable. The cutouts are strung throughout the city, in the hallways of schools and across windows, preparing the entire city for the celebrations. Kiosks selling Day of the Dead memorabilia, decorative skeletons and flowers are found throughout the city, especially in the main square, where everyone gathers for joyful commemorations.

The Zocalo becomes a crowded mix of children, adults, tourists, skeletons, flowers and altars. It almost seems like a carnival, complete with music, strange exhibits and stands selling trinkets and sweet treats for the children. The Day of the Dead celebrations continue throughout the day and night, not only in the Zocalo, but sometimes in the most surprising of settings.

During the Day of the Dead, cemeteries also become central locations of the celebration. Some groups will remain solemn and quiet

quiet and still sites are alight with joyous celebration for these magical nights.

The sights you behold during these first two days of November will not be easily forgotten. They are astonishing and spontaneous, yet profoundly joyful and moving. The entire nation takes part in this celebration, from the youngest member of the family to the oldest. Woven together by different beliefs, it is a tradition that is deeply embedded in Mexico’s culture. It is a festivity well worth observing, just as beautiful and vibrant as the country it occurs in. The Dia de los Muertos provides a window into some of the most beautiful aspects of Mexico: the abundance, richness and intensity of its colors and culture. It is truly a celebration of life.

images by Marla Cimini

Wine & the City

A unique inside-look at one of Switzerland’s best-kept secrets: wine.

BY MARLA CIMINI Global Living Magazine

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have guests and special dinners at their wineries, and welcome visiting foodies to experience winemaking firsthand – with the energetic winemaker as a personal VIP tourguide.

Meet the Swiss winemakers Bechtel Wines: Owner Mathias Bechtel has worked in a variety of wine regions in Switzerland and has honed his craft by learning all aspects of the winemaking process. Currently, he grows grapes for Merlot, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc.

Weinhof Juno: Julia Nora Lorenzen runs a wine cellar with an adjacent 49-acre (20-hectare) winery. A Swiss wine expert, she continues to study enology, while growing Pinot Noir and Zweigelt grapes.

Weingut Schwarz: After spending time learning the business in Australia and France, owner Andreas Schwarz took over the 14-acre (5.6-hectare) winery in 2004.

He primarily grows grapes for Pinot Noir and Riesling.

In the city When travelers are not sipping wine at the small Swiss wineries, it’s easy to burn up as many calories as possible by touring the surrounding neighborhoods, which includes the high-end shopping street Bahnhofsstraße, famous for its

international brands and Swiss watch boutiques. With gorgeous walkways along the lake, picturesque vistas framed by the Alps – and plenty of homemade chocolate at every turn, we found Zürich to be the ideal walking city.

The old city area of Zürich, called the Niederdorf, was charming and historic, with an abundance of stunning churches and monasteries, world-class museums (such as the Kunsthaus Zürich art museum), and restaurants and cafes serving everything from traditional Swiss menus to cuisine from around the globe. It was easy to explore the old town on foot, as we fortunately were treated to rare, summer-like temperatures throughout our entire October visit. It was perfect weather for people-watching, and we were entertained by the many swimmers, boaters (and swans) enjoying the last warm days before winter. One afternoon, we hopped on a local ferryboat to soak up the sunshine and take in the sights from Lake Zürich.

We marveled at the architecture Tucson, U.S.A. along the coastline, as wellArizona, as the tiny beaches – filled with sunbathers – adjacent to each stop along the way.

images by Marla Cimini

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ome trips are overflowing with pleasant surprises, and my recent visit to Switzerland was one of those special experiences. Although I was anticipating the picturesque city surrounding Lake Zürich, and the gorgeous backdrop of the Swiss Alps, I was not expecting to be treated to some of the region’s most interesting and delightful wines.

I confess that I was not familiar with Swiss wine before this visit, as their delightful wines are rarely exported, even to neighboring European countries. With a wink, the Swiss generally say that they prefer to “keep the wines to drink for themselves”. The winemakers are mostly small production houses that sell bottles locally.

However, several talented, up-andcoming winemakers are making a big splash in Switzerland. And yes, there is actually an association of young, Swiss winemakers in the Zürich area. Ambitious and devoted oenophiles, these men and women live for their wine, and are passionate about their chosen profession.

These earnest, hard-working vintners all make small amounts of (very impressive) wine that is only enjoyed within Switzerland, which is by the way, not a bad place to enjoy exceptional wines.

Also, luckily for us, they adore welcoming visitors at their private wineries, and offer vineyard tours to thirsty travelers, even from international destinations.

It’s good news for individuals seeking a unique glimpse into the world of Swiss wine, as there are a number of Swiss wineries located just minutes from the heart of bustling Zürich. Much like all of Switzerland, everything is close by, and it’s easy to spend an afternoon touring a petite vineyard and returning to the city in the evening. Most of these gregarious winemakers love to

Additional info:

images by Marla Cimini

The Young Swiss, New Wine: www.jsnw.ch Bechtel Wines: www.bechtel-weine.ch Weinhof Juno: www.weinhof-juno.ch Weingut Schwarz: www.weingutschwarz.ch Park Hyatt Zürich: www.zurich.park.hyatt.com Jules Verne Panoramic Bar: www.jules-verne.ch Kunsthaus Zürich: www.kunsthaus.ch

In addition to using water as an everyday mode of transportation, we also discovered that the Swiss certainly take their drinking water seriously, as there are over 1200 fountains of every shape and size situated throughout Zürich. Residents and tourists alike simply stop at fountains to fill up their water bottles as they run errands or stroll around town. In fact, it may amaze some travelers to learn that throughout the entire country of Switzerland, all water is safe, clean and drinkable.

Despite Zürich’s reputation as a sleepy city at night, our hotel was a hotspot, and is considered home-away-from-home to many rock stars and celebrities when they find themselves in town. The Park Hyatt Zürich’s upscale restaurant, Parkhuus, along with its adjacent bar, ONYX was jumping every night – jammed with well-healed guests and the fashionable after-work crowd. We also had a touch of added glamour courtesy of the Zürich film festival in full swing just a few streets away.

International filmmakers such as Roman Polanski – and members of the Hollywood elite, including George Clooney and Sean Penn – were creating a bit of a buzz that week.

In the evening, one of our favorite activities was taking in the view of the city from high atop the Jules Verne panoramic bar, as the city lights up brilliantly. Not surprisingly, we found the local Swiss wines to be the perfect accompaniment to this spectacular experience.

Planning your visit and contacting the Swiss winemakers The Swiss winemakers encourage travelers to contact them directly, and they will do their best to arrange a day trip or an afternoon visit to their private vineyards right outside of the city. And yes, despite their websites in German, they all speak English (as well as a multitude of other languages).

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Far and Away

A Visit to Ireland's Belleek Castle Hotel

By Toma Clark Haines 50

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images by Toma Clark Haines

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ar and away from the rowdy tourists clamoring around Dublin’s Temple Bar and hours north of the congestion of cars around the Ring of Kerry is an Ireland that evades most visitors. The Irish say that the mythical nature of their island, the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, so to speak, only truly reveals itself to those who are prepared to put in the effort to look beyond the well-tread tourist track. To be a traveler in Ireland means experiencing the country, its history and culture from the inside out, and there is no better place to get off the beaten path than at a quirky castle hotel on the west coast in County Mayo. Set on 1,000 acres of woodland tucked away on the banks of the River Moy, the 15th-century Belleek Castle, the ancestral home of the Earl of Arran, is a destination in itself.

A visit to Belleek Castle hotel feels more like spending the weekend at a friend’s cozy and crumbling Irish estate than a visit to a swank, country tourist retreat. You won’t kiss the Blarney Stone here, nor will you stand in line to purchase pre-packaged sets of Waterford.

The only Irish linens you’ll find will be tucked tightly around your antique 4-poster bed, not perfectly pressed into cellophane packs to sell by the bundle.

The bathrooms of the castle, though perfectly functional, are in need of a makeover and a ghost walks the floors at nights occasionally waking guests at the witching hour. And yet, the hotel with

its slightly shabby chateau vibe has an Irish charm that enchants as surely as leprechauns walk the back roads of the Republic. At Belleek Castle it’s easy to overlook what’s missing from the typical Irish tourist landscape in lieu of what this sensational, small boutique hotel offers: the antithesis of corporate hospitality.

As you approach the hotel up a long, tree-lined drive, the Celtic castle comes into view; romantic and isolated, a tad foreboding, it’s the perfect stage for the next Hollywood rendition of Jane Eyre.

Before you leave your car you’re already imagining the lovely walks through

the woods, and you don’t yet know that there are an uncommonly curious number of graves hidden around the estate. Later, as you are walking through the gardens, you’ll step into a cold spot just as you realize you’re standing in a pet cemetery, where a beloved family dog has been buried.

The generations of residents of Belleek Castle have followed in their forefather’s footsteps, marking the passing of time with crosses and pillars along their ample property, paying homage to those whose lives have impacted the land.

Since the Stone Age, numerous tombs and megaliths have littered the whole of County Mayo. Long before Saint Palladius, and later the more popularly remembered Saint Patrick, brought Christianity to the Druids, the Neolithic people lived and died on this land. They developed rituals associated with burying their dead, leaving behind Stonehengeesque formations on Belleek’s horizon.

Today Paul Doran lords over the manor he inherited, reinvigorating the hotel with new life – the next generation.

After a long and varied past as a soup kitchen during the Great Potato Famine, a safe haven from IRA-targeted attacks during the Republican uprising of 1916, and a sanatorium for tuberculosis patients during and after the Second World War, Belleek Castle originally opened as a hotel in 1961. Paul’s father, Marshall, bought it, saving it from statesponsored destruction, and then devoted Global Living Magazine

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An 8-course gourmet menu utilizes the carefully chosen, locally sourced ingredients, with the pièce de résistance of the castle’s kitchen being the Drunken Bullock. the last half of his life to the monumental task of restoring the former manor house. In the early days of Marshall’s renovation, visitors staying in the low-key castle hotel would find the eccentric proprietor swinging hammer and chisel on immense blocks of granite, a red bandanna tied around his head against the perspiration, holes in his trousers and worn shoes with toes protruding. He worked alongside stonemasons and tradesmen, putting his own unique touch on architect John Benjamin Keene’s 19th-century design.

Marshall’s son Paul shows the same disregard for protocol as his father, greeting guests while still wearing a pair of bike shorts from that morning’s run. He’s at home in his castle, and you are not just his lucky guests but you are invited to be his family and friends for the duration of your stay. He joins a group of visitors in the Armada Bar, telling the story of how his father salvaged the timbers to create this modern-day man’s cave from an ill-fated galleon. The ships that were excavated were part of the mighty Spanish Armada that battled the bloody English during the end of the 16th century. In a catastrophic moment in Spanish history, the Spaniards had in their possession a poorly executed map of the coastline of Ireland and, when the Atlantic gales rose higher and higher, 24 ships in their fleet crashed ashore. Four centuries later, Paul’s father helped himself to the timber from the two of the ships that wafted onto

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being the Drunken Bullock. This Irish steak is flambéed at the table and served straight from a flaming sabre in an elaborate presentation that verges on being a ritual. Before sitting down at the table, you can ask to see the wine cellar to see what special wines Paul has in his reserve but hasn’t put on the menu for public consumption.

For those less adventurous guests who aren’t quite brave enough to tackle the Irish beef, succulent Connemara lamb and salmon caught fresh behind the estate in the River Moy are readily available.

If you miss the fish at dinner, don’t worry; you can always try the smoked-to-order fresh salmon for your breakfast the next morning, or again the next night at dinner.

While the dining room has an intimate feel, underground in the great Medieval Hall there’s room for an elaborate celebratory dinner for 200+ guests, complete with a pig roasting on the spit in front of the grand fireplace. All in all, a truly magical environment that feels both comfortable and entertaining at the same time. If you’re like me, you won’t be able to leave the hotel for your second night’s dinner; you’ll simply return to Belleek’s tavern for a second helping from the night before.

Additional info: Belleek Castle Ballina, Co. Mayo, R. Ireland Tel: +353 (0) 96 22400 Email: info@belleekcastle.com Web: www.belleekcastle.com Restaurant: Open 7 nights per week; Early-bird dinner $36.80 (€28.50) per person; Friday & Saturday only: 8-course Gourmet Menu $83.93 (€65).

Castle Tours, including Armory, available daily at 2p.m. (bookings required, price $12.91 (€10) per person).

images by Toma Clark Haines

nearby shores. Now, under the watchful eye of the conquistador Cortez, this room implores you to sink into the leather, savor the Irish whiskey and envision a time when this indeed could have been your manor house.

Paul’s blue eyes twinkle as he tells this story and then invites his guests downstairs to the dungeon, the original portion of the property that dates back five centuries. The lower level of the estate houses what is now dubbed the Marshall Doran Collection, a hands-on, interactive display where visitors are allowed to try on pieces of medieval plate armor and helmets, and to even draw a sword.

When Marshall wasn’t working on the castle’s restoration, he combed Europe's auctions and shops, amassing Ireland’s largest collection of armor, weaponry and fossils. He filled Belleek Castle with rich décor and antiques, including French ormolu chandeliers, timeworn tapestries and Savonnerie carpets and rugs. As cash flow permits, Paul and his girlfriend Maya, general manager of the hotel, invest a hefty amount to the continual renovation of the castle, imbibing the property with a warm and cozy feel.

Warmth seems to be the discussion de jour. In the hotel’s Granuailes Candlelight Grill Room, famous for its fresh countryhouse cuisine, Paul is discussing the perils of keeping the castle cozy.

“What’s the point in serving beautiful food if you have to eat it wearing an anorak?” he says, explaining the decision to install an open stove in the front hall to warm the entry.

Downstairs, the 13th-century Norman fireplace in the Great Hall remains, as do an assortment of other open fireplaces but, since inheriting the property, Paul has been kept busy mending all the little things that tend to go wrong in castles. Think 200-year-old roofs, antiquated heating, plus dealing with all the business requirements for improving the restaurant food service and atmosphere.

From the customer’s perspective, the restaurant and dining room need little improvement. Food is served in a baronial style with handmade tables and chairs, and a menu reflecting the surroundings. An 8-course gourmet menu utilizes the carefully chosen, locally sourced ingredients, with the pièce de résistance of the castle’s kitchen

Cruising Croatia Expat author Apple Gidley takes us on a historical adventure through Old Town Dubrovnik and then aboard a yacht cruise sailing through Croatian waters.

images by Apple Gidley

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he 'no warnings are in force’ sign is a welcome sight tacked to the notice board at the marina office. No matter the size of yacht, weather reports are an integral part of sailing wherever in the world you decide to spend your hardearned downtime – away from harried staff and cellular connections. Everyone needs a break, including busy executives, and the Adriatic Sea – nuzzling the limestone cliffs that make up Southern Croatia – offers just such a place.

At the far end of the inlet of Rijeka Dubrovačka, opposite the ancient monastery of Rožat, is Dubrovnik’s largest marina: a mooring point for multi-million dollar yachts and motor cruisers, boats of more modest dimensions and various yacht charter companies. It’s also where we will find our seaworthy accommodation.

Before we board, however, we wander the streets of Old Town Dubrovnik, a UNESCO heritage site covering eight square miles now pedestrianized, where history and warmth rise up from the worn stone slabs of the Stradun, the central avenue leading to the harbor.

The walls, 82 feet (25m) high in parts and with 16 towers standing guard like exclamation points, protect the city from sea and land insurgents and surround the jostle of russet-roofed buildings, some still pock-marked by the most recent siege of 1991. Walking down the slope from the main Gate of Pile, it is easy to imagine the city in its former life: an ancient and bustling trading hub between east and

west, famous for its shipbuilding.

The city was also once famed for its silver and goldsmiths, and jewelers skilled in the art of filigree with pearls and corals. City lore states that after the Great Earthquake of 1667, the 24 altars of silver and gold in the church of the Friars Minor melted and flowed through the streets. The Stradun, though no longer flowing with precious metals, still has numerous shops in which to find modern-day masterpieces.

The alleys are filled with rich aromas from the many restaurants. Waferthin pizzas and Venetian risottos give a nod to neighboring Italy, while pilafs – a dish in which rice is cooked

who, in 972, warned the city of an impending attack from Venetian ships.

Modern-day wedding parties celebrate between the church steps and Orlando’s Pillar, dancing to accordions, tamburicas (an Eastern European string instrument) and lusty harmonies from all gathered.

Locals dive into the harbor and swim between the small pleasure boats, or lounge on the sizzling rocks below the venerable walls.

Back at the marina and ready to set sail, a 49-foot Hylas yacht will be our home for the trip – a sleek, easy-tomaneuver and perfect getaway vessel.

We’ve chosen to provision and sail her ourselves – a decision that significantly

"We’ve chosen to provision and sail her ourselves – a decision that significantly helps the unwinding process from the day-to-day rigors of corporate life we are seeking." in a seasoned broth – offer a culinary doorway to the Middle East. Seafood is fresh and plentiful, whether a dish of simple sardines grilled in lemon and chili or, for the more refined palate, oysters from Ston or lobsters fresh from pots off the Island of Vis. Old Town Dubrovnik, for all the history within its walls, is a living city.

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ashore and revisit Linda’s restaurant. Her crêpes crowned with apple and ice cream live up to expectations; washed down with kajsija, a potent apricot liqueur, and the gentle rock of the hull, they cradle us into a good night’s sleep.

Now comfortable with the sway and tilt of the yacht, our guests become crew, learning the ropes and idiosyncrasies of

a sailing vacation. The muddle of lines becomes clear and sails are hoisted with ease, winched to the optimum for a good day’s sail.

The galley reduces a cook’s necessities to the minimum, and pleasure is taken from the simplest of meals where everyone lends a hand and hints of garlic, coffee and brine mingle deliciously. Appetites are tickled by the scent of rosemary tossed into a pan of chicken, with a dash of wine for added flavor.

By the end of the third day we have all stopped worrying about the office. Even with communications intermittently possible, no one has attempted to bring the cares of the outside world on board. The rustle and romance of charts takes over from electronics, and an iPad is used only occasionally to scope out possible mooring points. Conversation is limited to the practical as we sail.

“Lee ho,” calls the skipper as we change tack.

“Should I winch the jib tighter?” asks a new sailor, now a keen observer of the set of the sails.

“Dolphins!” shouts a lookout sunning on deck.

A pod cavorting its way down Pelješki Kanal taunts us for a while with their agility,

laughing at our cameras held ready for the shot of the week, and then with a flick of their fins continue their journey and we ours. The mainsail has one reef and the sailing is exhilarating – the telltales flying straight, the sails perfectly set.

Lumbarda, a village on the southeastern tip of Korčula Island is our planned mooring for the night. The harbor is narrow, tucked in behind a mole protecting boats from gusts of the bura, a mean northeasterly that suddenly can blow in the summer months. We pick up a lazy line, tidy the yacht and pour the gin. After showers on dry land we take a taxi to Korčula Town, another walled city though very much smaller than Dubrovnik. Korčula’s most-celebrated residents are Marco Polo and the famed Italian artist Tintoretto, who spent his student days painting on the island. Crowds gather to watch the stately sword dance, moreška, performed on Mondays and Thursdays at the open-air theater.

Bougainvillea and geraniums lunging from tiny terraces drip bracts and blossom to the narrow alleys below and laundry, fluttering on lines strung high, dries in the early evening breeze as we amble around the town. We visit an outdoor restaurant in the shadow of the Cathedral of St. Marco and feast on goat’s cheese, Dalmatian ham, olives and other local delicacies washed down with Grk, the dry white wine for which the island is known. We are subdued as we return to the yacht, knowing we have reached our farthest outward point and our return journey to Dubrovnik will start in the morning; none of us are eager to rejoin crowded reality.

The wind has eased and we motor most of the way to Polače on the northern end of Mljet, another bay that entices sailors to rest overnight in the deep clear waters. We have ordered a hearty traditional peka, or ‘under-thebell’, meal for our crew tonight at Antika Konoba. Lamb and octopus placed in flat dishes and covered with clay domes are set on, covered with hot coals and slowly roasted. The meat is succulent and we

image by Edward Gidley

helps the unwinding process from the day-to-day rigors of corporate life we are seeking. In addition, provisioning a yacht is part of the fun, with marina and small village shops offering local foods and, if we are particularly lucky, fresh bread … and ice. Thinking ahead, we purchased our Bombay Sapphire at the airport, as we do no matter where in the world we are, not wanting to risk the availability of our favored gin in a small island store.

Our lazy line is dropped just after dawn and we glide smoothly out, ready for wherever the wind takes us.

We are anxious to lose all connectivity with the outside world and the intrusive thrum of PDAs. The wind harries the stays and we raise the mainsail and jib and head northwest up the Koločepski Kanal, with a short stop for coffee at Lopud Island and, later, lunch…tucked in a bay behind Ruba.

Before we have time to circle the bay at Okuklje on Mljet Island, an outboard skims to a large orange buoy. The driver balances, steadying the tiller with her knee as she waves the buoy line, ready to tie us on. Local restaurants, while not charging for their buoys, do expect our business at their establishments. Linda, proud owner of the Maestral Konoba, outlines the delicacies on offer that evening. We negotiate dinner, explaining that we have chicken in the fridge that will go bad if not eaten that night, but agree to have our dessert and drinks on her terrace.

Life afloat takes on a soporific tenor once the day’s sailing is over and our guests acclimate to smaller living conditions. Diving off the bow into chill-blue water shocks the system, and gasps can be heard from surfacing heads. Our fresh water tanks are full and a rinse on the aft of the yacht allows us to dry off with a gin and tonic while we watch the sun – a glowing orange orb – shower the hills with a verdigris patina. Apart from murmurs from the shore, all is quiet as we revel in the peace.

After supper we take the tender

"No words of budgets, stock markets and oil prices litter the conversation as we dangle our legs from the dive platform."

top center and right: images by Apple Gidley bottom center and left: images by Edward Gidley

wash it down with ožujsko, a popular Croatian beer. Our tender ride back to the yacht is done in three trips with much laughter as we clamber aboard and continue an on-going card game – simple pleasures far removed from the formality of official dinners in our regular lives.

We rise early and, after a quick breakfast tempered with strong coffee, we weigh anchor and ease along one of the most serene waterways of the world. The mercury-like water laps the bow as we pass between the islands of Mljet and Kobrava, barely half a mile apart.

Lush vegetation climbs the hills dotted only with occasional stone homes. There is true quiet; not even birdsong disturbs the solitude – birds’ eggs having been devoured by the mongoose imported in the early 20th century in an attempt to rid the island of venomous snakes.

We spend the day trying to catch wind, with little success, and finally choose to anchor in a secluded bay off Jakljan Island for the evening. The deep, shaded water takes our breath away as we swim amongst the fish, curious at these strange intrusions into their world. No words of budgets, stock markets and oil prices litter the conversation as we dangle our legs from the dive platform; some cling to the ladder like teens, unwilling to climb out of the simplicity surrounding our life this week. We eat on board, our world once again encapsulated on the yacht; grilled fish, salad and fresh bread washed down with Pošip and Grk have never tasted so good. The evening is whiled away idly chatting on deck; we’re content to watch the stars sparkle and occasionally shoot earthwards in a glittery trail. It’s very clear that none of us want to return to the rush of reality: lives punctuated by deadlines, meetings and technology.

As we pass the last of the Elaphiti islands and cross under the FranjoTudjman, the cable-stayed bridge leading in to Dubrovnik from the west, conversation dies. Our crew is dotted around the deck, comfortable with the motion after eight days aboard, with thoughts coming back to their desks as we return to the marina.

There will be one final flurry of activity as fenders are tied for the last time before the skipper, my husband, maneuvers into our designated spot, the lazy line is picked up and the stern lines tossed to shore.

We are in the marina and will be heading back to various points around the world – already eager to read the ‘No warnings are in force’ sign and go aboard again for our next escape.

Global Living Magazine

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FIVE OF THE BEST...

Third Culture Kids – Growing Up Among Worlds

Ruth van Reken and David Pollock Nicholas Brealey Publishing Two of the world’s gurus on crosscultural children and growing up as expatriates collaborated on this; undoubtedly, the most popular book there is on what it feels like to be a TCK (Third Culture Kid).

Based on experience, research and case study, this is the kind of book that parents buy and then their children read. With stories that will resonate with expat kids the world over, it explains clearly and compellingly not only how it feels to be a TCK, but also what can be done about it. Subjects such as saying goodbye, unresolved grief and identity make this the leading handbook in this field.

Reviewer: Jo Parfitt www.joparfitt.com

Emotional Resilience and the Expat Child

The Mission of Detective Mike: Moving Abroad Simone T. Costa Eriksson and Ana Serra Summertime Publishing

This delightful new children’s book relates 8-year-old Mike’s determined quest for information about his upcoming move abroad. The answers he finds are illuminating, comforting and empowering. Chapters such as ‘What About My Things?’ and ‘Who Will Disappear?’ highlight Mike’s sleuthing expeditions as he explores these and other move-related questions. Mike’s discoveries about the new life waiting for him will enchant and inform both school-aged children and their parents.

Costa Eriksson employs her expertise as a psychologist and International Life Coach to provide a child’s perspective on this transition.

Reviewer: Susan Adkins

Books For Third Culture Kids compiled bY jo parfitt In this section of Global Living Magazine,

Julia Simens we feature five examples of good books in a Summertime Publishing specific genre. This issue, we feature books for and about our global nomad children. If

Writing Out of Limbo

Edited by Nina Sichel, Faith Eidse and Elaine Niel Orr Cambridge Scholars Press When a group of expat experts and academics decide to create an anthology of the finest writings and research by and about kids who grow up overseas, you can expect it to be worth reading. This book will become a bible to anyone who truly wants to look inside the mind of the Third Culture Kid (TCK), the Military Brat, or the Missionary Kid. With pieces from the TCK 'grandmother' herself, Ruth van Reken, and gurus like Ann Baker Cottrell and the late Norma McCaig alongside researcher filmmakers Alice Wu and Donna Musil, this is a comprehensive read that belongs in every school and college where culture and anthropology are taught.

Anyone writing about TCK issues needs this book; it’s an invaluable reference.

Reviewer: Jo Parfitt

you would like to suggest books for review Essential reading for in this section, please contact expat parents, families, Jo@summertimepublishing.com. teachers and anyone engaging with children who live in a global environment.

Sammy’s Next Move Julia Simens has over 20 years experience working Helen Maffini in family therapy and early childhood education, CreateSpace raising two global children and relocating across five continents. While the book is aimed at families with Sammy is a young snail facing another move, and younger children (up to approximately 8 years of age), the story explores his feelings towards moving and it contains information useful to anyone interacting how he has handled these feelings in the past. The with global children of most ages. She has categorized excitement of a new country is balanced by the loss emotions and language to define them, then devised and sadness about what must be left behind. a practical program whereby parents can explore and Each page has opportunities for parents/teachers recognize emotional feelings with their children. to discuss emotions the child may experience but Simens has brought together in this one publication not be able to verbalize. The illustrations are designed to engage children a proven program to help families raise global, and draw them into the book. The suggested reading age is not given but emotionally-articulate, well-balanced adults. What up to 7/8 would be perfect. It is something to read with children, and a greater gift could we give our children? treasure for them to read on their own.

Reviewer: Jane Dean Reviewer: Jane Dean www.wordgeyser.com

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