Nota Bene 2024

Welcome.

We finished 2023 having visited more than 12 countries–some new, others our perennial favourites like Italy, the French Riviera, Greek islands and Marrakech.

2024 looks even more exciting with a number of new destinations and hotel openings to uncover, as well as many special and unique experiences to share, some of which are highlighted in this publication.

We hope to inspire you for the year ahead. What excites us most is discovery and the creation of unforgettable memories. A moment in time, an escape from daily life.

Seeing the world and all it offers is a part of life’s journey. Come on the journey with us.

With warm wishes on behalf of my outstanding and passionate team.

Travel is all about creating indelible memories – an unforgettable moment in time involving special people and exceptional places.

SKI

off-piste options

Our expertise begins with the world’s finest private ski chalets – many off-market –and high-level insight into the most exclusive winter jet-set resorts, including Courchevel, Gstaad, St Moritz, Val d’Isère, Aspen and Telluride.

Details that matter to our demographic include whether a property is ski-in/ski-out, knowledge of the different ski runs and offpiste options, how long the chalet staff have worked together as a team, whether skis can be fitted in-house and boots warmed before every ski session, and the garage

being underground with direct access to the house.

We comb through our intelligence every year, updating ourselves on the top massage therapists, finest ski and snowboarding instructors, where best to take a morning cappuccino and which tables to book at the most sought-after restaurants.

Yet, this is only the beginning. For those who want to push boundaries, the options are limitless. Almost anything is possible, but it comes down to knowledge, experience and a deep understanding of each individual client and how they perceive ‘extraordinary’.

IN OUR OPINION...

Antarctica, the world’s best heliskiing destination.

Most don’t know that Antarctica is the world’s best heliskiing destination, occupying a class of its own, surrounded by an unearthly landscape of glistening polar desert. Or that Hokkaido offers some of the most pristine powder snow on earth, the immensity of its snowfall resulting from the combination of warmth from the Sea of Japan and winds from Siberia.

For some, a once-in-a-lifetime journey includes chartering a yacht in Greenland, complete with helipad and

snowmobiles, where travellers take off from sea to air for an Arctic heliskiing expedition.

We might also suggest a private chalet in Lapland where explorative travellers can cross the invisible border between Finland and Sweden and go freeriding on powder snow and snowmobiling into Norwegian territory for ice fishing.

Then end the day with dog sledding and a moonlit dinner in a heated tent on an icecovered lake and marvel at the Northern Lights.

IT THE SLOPES H

The iconic Keepall 55 gets a winter sports reiteration for LV Ski. Crafted in light, Monogram Storm coated canvas, this functional holdall is brimming with technical innovations, like the LV fast-release buckles on straps that are specifically designed to hold ski gear.

Louis Vuitton Keepall 55 Bag

We know where

ENTURE OFF-PISTE V

Inspired by traditional mountaineer bags, go off-piste with the Hermès ski backpack. Sporty, technical and weatherproof in water-repellent canvas, it looks just as at home on black runs as the catwalk thanks to its bicolour trims and leather accents.

Hermès Off Piste Ski Backpack

ADVENTURE &EXPEDITION

There

are those whose

spirits

are

awakened

by

venturing deep

into

the unknown. They are stirred by adventure, testing the waters, pushing boundaries and having their eyes opened to the wider world and all its wonders.

chance to encounter humpback whales or whitetip reef sharks.

For Nota Bene, these are some of the most exciting journeys to navigate for our clients.

It might be northernmost Norway with an expedition to the land of the midnight sun and the polar night, the magic boundary of the Arctic Circle where you travel by snowmobile and see the kingdom of polar bears.

Or an arrival by floatplane to the wilds of Alaska against the backdrop of the Tordrillo Mountains, for hiking on the Iditarod Trail, fly fishing, skiing, dog sledding, and helicopter excursions to remote, hard-to-reach corners where you’ll barely see another soul.

For some, the ultimate adventure might encompass a boating journey on Brazil’s Amazon River with its exquisite flora and fauna, floating forests, towering tree canopies, waterfalls, tiny villages and ancient jungles. Or a remote hiking experience in Costa Rica’s Corcovado National Park, followed by a boating expedition for a

We know where

For others, a journey back in time exploring Mongolia’s Gobi Desert on horseback, staying off-grid in traditional ger tents, provides the type of transformative travel experience they seek.

Nota Bene makes these far-flung expeditions possible for affluent travellers with an extensive network of superb local partners and a deep understanding of all the prerequisites.

If we cannot access a twin-engine light aircraft, we will fly one in from a neighbouring country wherever possible. If motion sickness is likely to deter someone from traversing the tumultuous ocean from southern Chile or Argentina to Antarctica, we will simply fly them in from either Cape Town or Punta Arenas.

It’s about having all the right answers before we are asked and being able to anticipate a client’s needs perhaps even before they do.

OR THE ADVENTURE F

Roll into your adventure in style with the standout Bourget PM carry-on, which comes in 11 colours. The perfect blend of modernity and tradition, it’s inspired by traditional Goyard trunks and finished with contemporary design touches, such as 360-degree wheels.

Goyard Bourget PM Trolley Case

THE EXPEDITION &

Elevate your expedition gear with Louis Vuitton’s technical backpack, styled in ultra-light Monogram Storm canvas. Comfortable, sleek and innovative, it features LV fastrelease buckles and ergonomic straps for ease of movement during tours and hikes.

Louis Vuitton Mountain Backpack

We know where

ORK HARD, PLAY HARD W

For nomads with discerning tastes, FPM has teamed up with designer Marc Sadler to create the Work Station special edition. Housed in cool aluminium, the installation transforms from rigid suitcase to flexible workspace in seconds so you can schedule in a Zoom call before sundowners. Designed with the frequent traveller in mind, the wood and leather workspace features a foldable desk and chair and four spacious drawers.

FPM Milano Work Station

ADVENTURE

COMPLETELY INDEPENDENT. UTTERLY INVALUABLE.

IWA advises individuals and businesses worldwide on their private aviation options and provides bespoke contract and flight management. We specialise in securing the best private flying options that match our clients’ requirements, from ad hoc charters, jet cards, block hours agreements to fractional and whole jet ownership.

Our advice is always independent, impartial and only in your best interests. Private aviation is a major investment of your money and trust. IWA ensures you get the best expert advice, oversight and ongoing management of your flying.

SAFARI

We know where

African safari remains one of the greatest discovery journeys on earth.

Popularised throughout the 20th century, with great novels and films depicting an era of romance and high adventure, African safari remains one of the greatest discovery journeys on earth.

An impressive cross-section of landscapes makes Africa a compelling continent to explore. In Botswana, the Okavango Delta’s network of waterways meanders through a green patchwork of marshlands, while neighbouring Namibia is a sight to behold with its towering sand dunes and infinite terracotta-coloured desert.

The dramatic cascades of Victoria Falls thunder into a series of gorges, the Zambezi River a natural border between Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Rwanda’s misty mountains are home to some of the world’s last remaining mountain gorillas, Kenya features wild savannahs and straw-coloured grassy plains, while Tanzania’s epic Serengeti is framed by the snow-capped peaks of

Mount Kilimanjaro, its exquisite montane forest suffused with birdsong.

There is a seemingly endless and everexpanding choice of lodges, tented camps, and safari operators. Yet when it comes to the calibre of seriously world-class luxury, it pays to know how to differentiate.

The details we’re looking for include whether game viewing is restricted to daylight hours, the possibility to fly a twinengine aircraft, the scope and depth of activities such as astronomy, philanthropy, meeting conservation experts or genuine encounters with local communities. Private dining in beautiful, scenic spots is usually preferable to communal tables and we’ll want to know whether we can ship special vintage wines if these aren’t readily available.

Spontaneity is key, and we avoid programmed, timetabled days in favour of full flexibility and total relaxation. It’s all about local contacts and asking the right questions, leaving nothing to chance.

LODGES

NBG FOUNDER FAVOURITE

Tanner Krolle The Walker Wrap-All

As selected by Anthony Lassman

“The perfect luggage combo for city or safari. This wraparound suit carrier meets duffle bag sets me up for a long weekend in Rome or Paris, but works equally well for a five-night safari in East Africa.

For the suit carrier, if it’s city, it will be a relaxed suit. I can then team the jacket with a pair of chinos. For the bush, it might be a safari jacket worn with chinos and a lightweight hat or cap.

I have my packing down to a fine art – a pair of trainers, workout gear, walking boots, Cucinelli sneakers, t-shirts and polo shirts, chinos, light cashmere sweater, scarf and sunglasses.” – Anthony

We know where

There is something extra special about waking on a private island hideaway far away from the madding crowd. It is true escapism, the experience enhanced when the private island happens to be a low-density world-class resort.

PRIVATE ISLANDS

A corner of the world reserved for us.

Is there a corner of the world reserved just for us? It might seem unlikely, but this is the illusion of the private island hideaway. A tiny, faraway piece of the planet, where opulence is found in the simplest of life’s pleasures, and the privilege of having to share them with no one.

Private islands are often chosen by a very specific type of traveller. Their price tags might be hefty, but they tend to appeal to those who shy away from exposure and blatant displays of wealth. Requests for this level of privacy come from high-profile individuals, those who don’t want to see or be seen – in many ways, the anti–jet set.

This is for the person who has nothing to prove. The person who wants to dine on simple fish cooked on a charcoal grill with their feet in the sand while ripples of sea foam lap at the shore.

The person who cares more about whether they wake on the sunrise or sunset side than pillow menus and fancy gimmicks. They don’t want to check in or check out, they’ll probably be on first-name terms with the general manager, and we’ll know without needing to ask that they are flying in by private jet.

So, what do they need from us? For everything to appear effortless, as if it were designed for them specifically. To fall out of bed and be served their favourite coffee before a beautiful breakfast outside on the terrace. A favourite wine or champagne served perfectly chilled and accompanied by something delicious and grown on the island. For staff to know when to approach and when to leave them alone. To arrive and depart with perfect ease, as if the world was waiting just for them.

SLAND ESCAPISM I

Express No. 2

Designed as the perfect weekend getaway bag, this lightweight Ghurka favourite makes a statement in bold orange and vintage tan. Stay organised on the move with its multiple exterior zip and flap pockets that offer easy access for all your travel essentials.

Ghurka

TROPICAL LIFE

RESORT

The European summer months of June through September are ideal for the Mediterranean with Greece, southern Italy, Corsica and the Côte d’Azur at the helm.

Relaxation is one of the many benefits of travel, and some of the world’s leading resorts tick all the right boxes when it comes to rest and retreat. With sublime settings, flawless service, oversized accommodations, well-conceived dining options, destination spas and a menu of expertly orchestrated activities, the resort property can potentially create the ultimate escape from daily life. Some are glamorous, attracting a seasonal jet-set crowd of loyal devotees; others focus on complete privacy and personal space. It all depends on who is travelling and the type of environment they seek.

The calm, turquoise waters of the Caribbean attract those in search of winter sun and the combination of gentle island life, beach clubs and days spent out on a boat, while the Indian Ocean islands of the Seychelles, Mozambique and Madagascar connect travellers with nature, indoor/outdoor living and an effortless, feet-inthe-sand approach to luxury.

Bali, India and Southeast Asia present some of the finest properties for wellness and holistic treatments with an emphasis on healing, nutritious food, detox and restoration. Dive amongst brightly coloured coral reefs and explore tropical inland forests as part of a journey to Fiji and the South Pacific islands.

And for soulful travel fringed with rainforest, music and colour, few experiences compare to the energy of Brazil.

The European summer months of June through September are ideal for the Mediterranean with Greece, southern Italy, Corsica and the Côte d’Azur at the helm. Winter breaks might be spent at a snowy retreat in North America or a ski resort in Switzerland or the French Alps.

The key to any resort property is knowing the intricacies. We are on the lookout for view obstructions; privacy levels; light, space and layout of each accommodation; arrival and departure procedures; whether activities are outsourced; expertise of spa treatments; pool and bar service; quality of towels and linens; and whether there are any dining time restrictions. These are the details that matter and they can make or break a trip.

SUMMER VIBES

ET-SETJ

STYLE

The definition of jet-set style, this elegant Weekender is ideal for resort escapes. Embodying the House’s impeccable craftsmanship and understated style, the practical Weekender is crafted in supple calfskin leather and contrasting cotton and linen.

Brunello Cucinelli Weekender Bag

Some of the world’s leading resorts tick all the right boxes when it comes to rest and retreat. With sublime settings, flawless service, oversized accommodations, wellconceived dining options, destination spas and a menu of expertly orchestrated activities, the resort property can potentially create the ultimate escape from daily life.

SKIN CARE

Easy to pack and easy to use, this science backed skincare brand delivers unparalleled results that pack a punch with the optimal dosage each time.

Noble Panacea is the only skincare brand founded by a Chemistry Nobel Prize winner. Its science-backed formulations are packed with patented technology developed by its founder, Sir Fraser Stoddart.

The product line-up includes a sumptuous cleansing balm, a serum rich in peptides, retinol and teprenone, and revolutionary face oils able to encapsulate hyaluronic acid for the first time, amongst others, all designed with deep-tech innovation to supercharge your skincare routine.

The technology behind it all, known as OSMV™, is made of 100% organic material, and encapsulates active ingredients for peak freshness and potency. Potent actives are delivered directly into the cellular core in a controlled, gradual, long-term release, known as micro-dosing, for up to 10x greater efficacy.

Noble Panacea’s philosophy is that a moisturizer or serum can contain some of the most powerful active ingredients, but these ingredients are wasted without the right delivery system. OSMV™ technology protects typically unstable active ingredients like Vitamin C and is programmed to deliver them with precision, at the time point in the “therapeutic window” when your skin is most receptive to each ingredient – the right place and the right time.

What we particularly like about Noble Panacea, is their unique active dose concept, whereby each skincare dose is individually sealed to prevent damage from air and light, as is the case with skincare in bottles and jars. The doses are fully recyclable and each product box is 100% starch based and plastic-free; we were particularly pleased to discover that this method produced 15% less waste than regular packaging.

Clients can discover and sample Noble Panacea’s award-winning skincare at the Harrods Beauty Halls, 87-135 Brompton Rd, London SW1X 7XL or online at harrods.com.

CITY

The world’s metropolises are some of the most exciting places to explore. Centres for contemporary art, leadingedge design, culinary innovation and architectural masterpieces, they allow us to discover hidden corners and get lost in the unknown. London, Paris, New York City. Is there anywhere we feel more alive?

LEADING-EDGE DESIGN

Skyscrapers and neon lights, blaring traffic and tree-lined boulevards, cafes that spill onto sidewalks bustling with people and background noise.

This is the energy of the city.

The world’s metropolises are some of the most exciting places to explore. Centres for contemporary art, leading-edge design, culinary innovation and architectural masterpieces, they allow us to discover hidden corners and get lost in the unknown.

London, Paris, New York City. Is there anywhere we feel more alive?

From an upscale travel perspective, cities are easy to get wrong. The level of choice is overwhelming and new hotel and restaurant openings regularly take the limelight. Yet, the nuances of a city are usually reserved for knowing locals. One street can make all the difference to the feel of a neighbourhood and a single wrong turn can lead to somewhere less than desirable.

Terms like ‘boutique hotel’ are vastly overused. If a hotel is beautifully designed, attached to a wonderful restaurant, connected to an interesting topic like contemporary art or design, and owned or run by a master hotelier, then it will likely be on our radar. It must stand apart and nothing can compensate for small, dark rooms or lack of certain amenities.

Likewise, a grande-dame should strike the right balance between location, sense of place, comfort and superiority of service. Restaurants will be frequented by well-heeled residents if chosen by Nota Bene and not extracted from concierge lists.

We make it our business to uncover the world’s leading cities from a local perspective, sourcing unique concept stores and shopping streets, public and private art collections, the best place to take a morning cappuccino, leading beauticians and hair stylists, private members’ clubs, personal trainers and yoga or Pilates instructors. No detail is forgotten.

RBAN AESTHETIC U

This striking Prada wheeled carry-on will ensure you blend in with the fashion set in London, Milan, Paris or New York. Made of Saffiano leather, the sleek, minimalist design of the suitcase lets the modern colour contrast and striped motif do the talking.

Prada Saffiano Leather Carry-On

ART

FASHION

REEN LIGHT G

Unmistakeably Bottega, the Intrecciato Duffle is an iconic bag for your city break essentials. In calfskin leather, the roomy weekender features a detachable strap, zip closure, exterior side-zipped pocket and detachable interior zipped pocket for your valuables.

Bottega Veneta Large Intrecciato Duffle

The ultimate sense of freedom.

YACHTING

Taking to the open seas by private superyacht is one of life’s great indulgences. In many ways, here lies the ultimate sense of freedom, navigating the waters with a new adventure each day.

Each year, the jet set sail the waters of St Tropez, the Greek Islands, Ibiza and the Costa Smeralda to bask in the glamour and joie de vivre of the Mediterranean. Frequenting seasonal hotspots, including all the most fashionable restaurants and beach clubs, chartering a sensational yacht is key to being part of Europe’s travel glitterati

The ease of summer with its long days and balmy nights - it all seems so effortless. Yet,

at Nota Bene, meticulous research and planning are underway many months in advance, as we source the highest-spec sailing and motor yachts, meet the crews on board and brief boat captains on precise itinerary details so they know how to orchestrate the days to perfection.

Beyond the Mediterranean, our knowledge extends to nautical journeys for the most intrepid explorers.

With painstaking attention to detail, we plan arctic adventures on superbly kitted expedition boats, heliskiing straight off your deck to the mountain slopes of Alaska or Antarctica, traditional wooden Phinisi yachts to uncover lesser-known islands of the Indonesian archipelago, superyachts in French Polynesia; and sailing the Bay of Islands or the otherworldly fjord landscape of New Zealand’s South Island.

S

Loro Piana Suitcase Stripe Tote

Step on deck with this waxed cotton and linen canvas tote in ocean-inspired blues. Functional and timeless, the tote has a water-resistant finish and protective leather bottom making it the perfect travel companion for nautical adventures.

EEKEND GETAWAY W

Weekend 40 Bag

Dior gives the weekend-ready holdall the runway treatment. With a new take on the iconic House motif, this weekender is crafted in beige and black Maxi Dior Oblique jacquard. The removable shoulder strap and leather handles offer versatility to carry the bag in style.

Dior

INSIDE OUT

WELL BEING

Travel & well-being are inextricably linked.

Nothing compares to the feeling of rejuvenation having basked in the warmth of the sun, dined on beautiful cuisine, exercised, slept well, and taken the time to disconnect. Equally, the inspiration of a magical journey full of unique, eye-opening experiences is nourishment for the soul and provides us with energy and creative flow.

Nota Bene places great importance on the well-being elements of a journey, with accents on the effortlessness of travel, the quality of fitness instructors and holistic therapists, and the maximisation of time. One of our greatest skills is elongating the days and creating the illusion of a much longer break away.

We do this by making everything supremely comfortable. From VIP luggage services, beautiful cars and airside airport services, to private charters and advice on the fastest, most enjoyable routes, each experience begins and ends with the ease of departure and return.

Next come the obvious wellness elements. In our endless quest for superior quality, we seek out the finest massage therapists, yoga and Pilates instructors, facialists,

beauticians, hair stylists, nutritionists and experts on movement and stretch. If it’s energy-clearing, healing practices such as reiki, sound baths, meditation or martial arts, we’ll track down the best of the best and fly them to a particular destination if necessary. Nothing is impossible or too much trouble.

We carefully research and critique the world’s finest spas and well-being retreats, including purists, such as Mayr in Austria and Lanserhof in Germany, or La Prairie, amongst the finest in Switzerland. Next, we scope out hideaways like Ananda in the Himalayas and Kamalaya in Thailand, which rank amongst the Ayurvedic specialists. Equally important are the hotels that might not brand themselves on wellness but still have exquisite spas, such as Hôtel de Crillon Paris, Raffles London at The OWO, Aman NYC or Four Seasons Hong Kong.

Our advice extends to personal shopping, recommendations for beauty treatments, input on particular brands of luggage, packing suggestions and journey-specific guidance for wildlife safari, mountain and arctic expeditions, gorilla trekking, or how best to prepare for the Amazon rainforest.

We know where

REAL ESTATE

We act exclusively for buyers in the search and acquisition of super-prime and ultraprime residential real estate.

With extensive local and worldwide travel experience, Nota Bene Real Estate is well positioned in the sector. The focus is now on London, the British countryside, the western Mediterranean, the Aegean and exclusive islands of the Caribbean and Bahamas.

As with travel, understanding world-class real estate comes with passion and micro-knowledge, supported by extensive research and comparable sales evidence. It also requires access to both on- and off-market properties.

Whether private island, country estate, city apartment or townhouse, villa or ski chalet, due diligence and advice take precedence.

We advise some of the world’s most influential professionals, captains of industry and high-profile individuals in their real estate acquisition. These are generally second or third homes and invariably discretionary purchases.

Our exclusive focus is the world’s finest.

To become a part of our community, email info@notabeneglobal.com