


Welcome to the newest volume of OLTRE, our exclusive quarterly magazine filled with inspiration and ideas for your next trip — and beyond.
Welcome to the newest volume of OLTRE, our exclusive quarterly magazine filled with inspiration and ideas for your next trip — and beyond.
In this issue, style takes center stage, from the artfully designed hotels and restaurants featured in our pages to the products, people, places and happenings you need to know about: Gallery-hopping in Hong Kong. A sustainability-minded fashion designer in Los Angeles. French pharmacy finds. Buzzy boutiques. New art books. The best cruise souvenirs. There’s much to discover — indulge and enjoy!
Hong Kong
Our destination guide for this issue presents the ultimate gallery crawl at the epicenter of contemporary art in Asia. Plus: the finest hotels from Central to Kowloon.
Austin, Texas
Cape Town, South Africa
An artist finds inspiration and optimism by exploring his own connection to the fashion industry.
THE LEGEND
WHERE TO SHOP NEXT
Beverly Hills, London, Paris...
These are the latest boutiques around the world that have us ready to splurge.
Marbella, Spain
How a seaside motel became a global hot spot and defined a vintage era of style on the Costa del
CONTACT YOUR TRAVEL ADVISOR TO PLAN YOUR NEXT VACATION
Where the energy of the city meets the serenity of the sea, Framed by sweeping ocean, mountain, and skyline views, our elegantly appointed rooms and suites offer bespoke furnishings, spa style bathrooms and luxury touches at every turn.
The Penthouse, our award-winning rooftop restaurant, offers panoramic ocean views, coastal-inspired cuisine, and handcrafted cocktails high above the Pacific.
On the award-winning Perfect Day at CocoCay, paradise gets a serious upgrade at the exclusive Coco Beach Club — where every sun-soaked moment is a masterpiece. Float between infinity pool perfection and ocean-kissed shores, then indulge in island elegance with filet mignon and fresh lobster at the chic beachfront restaurant. Elevate your beach day with an Overwater Cabana, complete with a hammock over calm turquoise waves, a private slide, and an attendant catering to your every whim. And when the sun dips low, the adventure soars high back onboard the world’s boldest ships. Come Seek the Royal Caribbean ® .
Contact your travel advisor to book your Perfect Day at CocoCay vacation today.
One of my favorite pastimes while traveling is shopping. (Who am I kidding? Shopping is my one of my favorite pastimes, period.) Art, accessories, clothing, decor — high or low, if it fits in my budget and my suitcase, I’m tempted to bring it home. Sure, it’s just stuff, but these tangible mementos, filled with memories of past travels, make me smile every time I see and use them.
The cover story for this volume, The Style Issue, called for art director Devin Duckworth to shop in the name of work. On location in Marrakech, Devin needed to source some accessories from the city’s famed souks, medinas and marketplaces. We tapped Internova’s network of in-country partners to help her navigate the local shopping scene, which can overwhelm even the savviest of travelers.
“I highly recommend hiring a driver and guide,” Devin says. “Our guide’s insider access allowed us to easily secure everything we needed for the shoot, from traditional goat-hair slippers to intricate silver Berber belts. He shared fascinating historical tidbits, helped us haggle and took us to a hidden gem for lunch in the medina.” Find the resulting fashion shoot on page 64.
Style factors heavily into OLTRE’s aesthetic, from the artfully designed hotels and restaurants featured in our pages to the products, people, places and happenings you need to know about: Gallery-hopping in Hong Kong. A sustainability-minded fashion designer in Los Angeles. French pharmacy finds. Buzzy boutiques. New art books. The best cruise souvenirs. There’s much to discover — indulge and enjoy!
Senior Vice President, Content Elaine Srnka
Congratulations to editorial director Brad A. Johnson, who recently brought home another haul of awards for OLTRE — this time from the North American Travel Journalists Association. Brad received eight awards for his writing and photography, including Photographer of the Year. Read his culinary travel article on Galápagos’ Pikaia Lodge on page 82 of this issue.
Turtle Inn, Placencia, Belize
• The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club, St. Petersburg, Florida
• British Virgin Islands yacht charter
• Soho Grand, New York City WHERE I’VE BEEN:
Here’s to wandering cobblestone streets and rolling cliffside vineyards. Roaming the catacombs of the Eternal City. Uncovering the Pearl of the Adriatic. Falling in love with the City of Light. Tracing the footsteps of Medieval knights. From the Amalfi Coast to the Grecian Isles, explore every wonder of this storied region. Here’s to unlocking doors to the past. To taking the untrodden path. To Finding More.
Contact your Travel Advisor to plan your next vacation.
Inspirational escapes, tailored for today’s modern traveler.
Ask your advisor about the benefits this hotel offers.
Senior Vice President, Content
Elaine Srnka
Vice President, Publishing
Laura Sport
Editorial Director
Brad A. Johnson
Art Director
Devin Duckworth
Copy Editor
Jennifer Weston
International Correspondents
Cibele Maciet (Paris), Carolyn O'Neil (Caribbean), Kathryn Romeyn (Bali), Chris Schalkx (Bangkok), Laura Schooling (London), Marina Spironetti (Milan)
Contributors
Bibi Abdulkadir, Steven Biller, Caitlin Burke, Carole Dixon, Merle Ginsberg, Kurt Dacheng Ji, Bijou Karman, Su Müstecaplıo ğ lu, Don Nichols, Joel Phillips, Ailbhe Reddy, Bailey Rebecca Roberts, Ramona Saviss, Tyler Sparling, Beanie Stolper, John Tain
Cruises
Pam Young
Destinations
Brian Hegarty
Hotel Programs
Dennis Grunden
In-Country Partners
Haisley Smith
Partner Marketing
Stephen McGillivray
Account Management
Marshall Davenport
Melissa Dobmeier
Giselle Garvey
Sam Holloway
Catherine Johns
Ronald Laing
Pam Massey
Sinead O’Connell
Loyde Pires
Becky Serdar
Jeanne Watters
Danielle Whitmore
Advertising Consultants
Lisa Calderone-Spierings lcalderone@cabanaxpr.com
Madelyn Roberts madelyn.roberts1@gmail.com
Hotel Marketing
Alexandra Rivera
Database Marketing
Jocelyn Acosta
Elizabeth Broehl
Felipe Castro
Adam Kemerer
James Nathan
Daniel Tennant
Katarzyna Turska
Direct advertising inquiries to advertising@oltremag.com
Chief Executive Officer
J.D. O'Hara
Chief Financial Officer
Robert Klug
Chief Information Officer
Jeremy Van Kuyk
Executive Vice President, Partner Relations
Albert Herrera
Executive Vice President, Partner Relations
Peter Vlitas
Senior Vice President, Public Relations
Elizabeth Gaerlan
Internova Select and Curated Hotel & Resort Rate Key
$ = Less than $500
$$ = $500 – $1,000
$$$ = $1,000 – $1,500
$$$$ = More than $1,500
Categories reflect average midseason rate for standard room. Your travel advisor can secure complimentary Internova Select or Curated perks such as hotel credits, breakfast for two, early check-in/late checkout (based on availability) and other extras.
ON THE FRONT COVER:
Shot on location at Royal Mansour in Marrakech, Morocco Photography by Su Müstecaplıo ğ lu. Hat, top and skirt by Altuzarra worn with traditional Moroccan Khussa slippers.
ON THE BACK COVER:
Shot on location at Regent Hong Kong. Photography by Kurt Dacheng Ji. Top by Monody Silhouette.
President, Global Travel Collection
Angie Licea
President, Nexion Travel Group
Jackie Friedman
President, Travel Leaders Group
John Lovell
OLTRE is published quarterly by Internova Travel Group, one of the largest travel services companies in the world. Internova brands represent more than 100,000 travel advisors in more than 6,000 company-owned and affiliated locations throughout the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom, with a presence in more than 80 countries. Publisher assumes no responsibility for representations or changes to travel information and pricing described herein, which are subject to change and availability, and restrictions may apply. Nothing may be reprinted in whole or in part without written consent of Publisher. Direct editorial and subscription inquiries to editors@oltremag.com and advertising requests to advertising@oltremag.com. Internova Travel Group is headquartered at 1633 Broadway, New York, NY 10019; Internova. com. Copyright © 2025 Internova Travel Group.
Marrakech, Morocco – Art director Devin Duckworth and her production team, with the help of our in-country partner, Experience Morocco , scoured and haggled their way through the souks in search of the perfect shoes and accessories to complement the couture for this issue's cover story. Most items were, of course, negotiable — but the vision was not. “The magic happens when the team really pushes their creative limits," Duckworth explains.
Galápagos, Ecuador – Most people travel to the Galápagos Islands for the adventure and wildlife, but editorial director Brad A. Johnson chose to go specifically for the food. “I knew the ceviche would be amazing — and it was," Johnson says. “And can we please normalize popcorn at the dinner table?" However, he completely failed to anticipate just how magnificent the tortoises would be.
It’s not just the amazing experiences you’ll have throughout Africa’s wildlife-rich game reserves and national parks that make Tauck’s safaris so personally rewarding and uniquely unforgettable. It’s also the incredible tented camps, clubs and lodges you’ll stay in, exquisitely designed to ensure an authentic sense of place with modern-day luxuries and service that enhance their wilderness settings – along with views that take your breath away, every day. For
Experience the soul of the Caribbean where 18,000 insiders are waiting to share the best of local culture, beaches, and endless adventure. Wake up in an Overwater Bungalow with freshly poured Jamaica Blue Mountain® Coffee before scuba diving into crystal blue waters. Here, we’re always finding new ways to redefine all-inclusive luxury, from tropical handcrafted cocktails to vibrant entertainment. Come see all we are.
Contact Your Travel Advisor for More Information
INSPIRED BY HIS OWN HUMBLE HISTORY IN TEXTILES, TAFADZWA MASUDI’S PAINTINGS ENCOURAGE EVERYONE TO DREAM BIG.
Cape Town, South Africa
The vibrant scenes in Zimbabwean artist Tafadzwa Masudi’s paintings pop with lively figures, intricate patterns and a flurry of colorful balloons, each work a buoyant metaphor for joy, optimism and the indomitable spirit of resilience. Masudi, 37, migrated to Cape Town in 2010 and labored in a clothing factory before embracing his true calling in 2020. He has since transformed his life’s canvas into a brilliant homage to those who have journeyed far and wide in search of a better existence.
Clockwise from top:
“ Sisi Dhori ," 2022
acrylic and oil on canvas
“ Zororo Rest ," 2021
acrylic on canvas
“ Zvichauya (Things to Come) ," 2021
acrylic on canvas
Opposite:
“ Greener on My Spot ," 2023
acrylic and oil on canvas
WRITING: STEVEN BILLER
Austin, Texas
Hotel Van Zandt
The 319-room hotel overlooks Lady Bird Lake from the heart of Austin’s Rainey Street District. Our advice: Make like a rock star and book the presidential suite, with its upright piano and poker table. Your travel advisor can secure Internova Select perks, including a $100 hotel credit as well as daily breakfast for two. $
“Maria También” by Khruangbin
“Goodie Bag” by Still Woozy
“Dead of Night” by Orville Peck
“Genesis” by Grimes
“Colors” by Black Pumas
“6’s to 9’s” by Big Wild and Rationale
“Fame” by David Bowie
“Home Soon” by Dope Lemon
“Good & Plenty” by Alex Isley, Masego and Jack Dine
“The Fade Out Line” by Phoebe Killdeer and The Short Straws
“Dang!” by Mac Miller, featuring Anderson .Paak
“Questions” by Maeta
“Nothing’s Gonna Hurt You Baby” by Cigarettes After Sex “Mariella” by Khruangbin and Leon Bridges
“Girls” by The Dare
“Close to You” by Dayglow
“Back on 74” by Jungle
“Lovers Rock” by TV Girl
“On and On” by Djo
“Alaska” by Maggie Rogers
“Crimson & Clover” by The Shacks
“Why Why Why Why Why” by SAULT
“Moves” by Suki Waterhouse
Austin’s most music-centric hotel takes its name from the late Townes Van Zandt, the legendary Texas songwriter behind some of the greatest hits by Willie Nelson, Bob Dylan, Norah Jones, Counting Crows and countless others. The hotel’s newest bar, Brass Poppy, channels a mellow indie sound to counter the more forceful vibrations of its other, louder venues. This latest addition is more demure (well, to a degree) and perfectly chill.
WRITING: BRAD A. JOHNSON
Step into a world where luxury knows no limits. Our handpicked villas offer breathtaking settings, unmatched privacy, and the finest amenities — perfect for unforgettable gatherings. Redefine the way you travel and indulge in an experience beyond the ordinary.
Indio, California
April 11 – 13 and 18 – 20
SAVE THE DATE. THESE ARE THE MUST-ATTEND OPENINGS, EXHIBITIONS, FESTIVALS AND RACES ON OUR AGENDA THIS SEASON.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
April 18 – 20
Noordwijk, the Netherlands
April 12
Paris, France
May 7 – September 7
East Sussex, England
May 16 – August 24
May 25
Berkshire, England
June 17 – 21
June
–
Unlock a world of extraordinary getaways with Four Seasons. From untouched islands to Michelin-starred meals, our collection of hotels and resorts around the globe are designed to help you uncover the truly exceptional—one stay at a time.
CONTACT A TRAVEL PROFESSIONAL FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE BENEFITS AVAILABLE WHEN BOOKING FOUR SEASONS HOTELS AND RESORTS
OUTFITTING SIZE ZERO TO SIZE HOUSE, THESE ARE THE SPLURGEWORTHY BOUTIQUES THAT HAVE US OBSESSED RIGHT NOW.
PEELING BACK THE WALLPAPER
Paris, France – Long renowned for exquisite textiles and wall treatments, the interiors firm Pierre Frey (with multiple showrooms in the city) has expanded into furniture with standout designs like a fluid, postmodern sofa by Toni Grilo and a sculptural coffee table by Guillaume Delvigne. Don’t worry; the brand’s 90-year textile tradition is not forgotten. It's also just revealed a stunning new collection of wallpapers, carpets and rugs, including a collaboration with India Mahdavi. pierrefrey.com
VOYEUR DISCRETION ADVISED
Beverly Hills, California – The ultra-exclusive Mameg hides behind an unassuming white-brick facade on Camden Drive in the city’s Golden Triangle. Owner Sonia Eram has a keen eye — and sartorial wit — for conversational pieces, such as a gold chain necklace with a full-size dangling Champagne glass, or artisanal finds from Cosmic Wonder in Japan. Tightly curated pieces from Loewe, Jil Sander, Marni, Balenciaga and Maison Margiela lead to a dressing room showcasing a mid-century wallscape from Los Angeles’ famed Neutra house. Mameg’s 1930s building was reimagined by architects Johnston Marklee and includes a courtyard sculpture garden, landscaped by Eric Nagelmann (Lotusland), that connects Mameg to the acclaimed Michael Werner Gallery. Although the shop's not exactly by-appointmentonly, you will need to be buzzed in, which is not always guaranteed at busier times. @mameg_la
Bangkok, Thailand – Shimmering like an alien starship in Bangkok's ritzy Phloen Chit district, the new Dior Gold House fuses the fashion brand's timeless heritage with the richness of Thai artistry and craft. A million gilded tiles cover its facade (designed to mimic Dior's Parisian headquarters), while, inside, works by Thai designers such as Boonserm Premthada and Saran Yen Panya lean heavily on bamboo, raffia and blond wood, creating a strong sense of place. Aside from the full range of seasonal collections, the space also houses a cafe by Argentine chef Mauro Colagreco (who just earned a second Michelin star for Côte, inside Capella Bangkok across town). dior.com
Vicenza, Italy – Emerging Catalan designer Montse Massagué says her obsession with ballerinas started when she saw the paparazzi photos of Amy Winehouse wandering the streets of Camden in her ballet shoes. Mon Massagué 's handcrafted versions — spotted recently on fashionista Beatrice Borromeo — feature a unique split sole that provides both style and added comfort, making the wearer feel like an étoile throughout the day. She doesn’t yet have her own brick-and-mortar, but you can browse the viral slippers for sale at concept store Zizhà in Vicenza. monmassague.com
London, England – Fashion’s current enfant wonderful, Simon Porte Jacquemus, just landed in Mayfair with an elegant Jacquemus flagship housed in a former art gallery on New Bond Street. Shoppers can linger and revel in the store’s art deco, apartment-like layout, a delightful milieu for showing off the brand’s refined menswear, womens wear and handbags. An in-house tea shop sells takeaway Jacquemus tea bags, a must-have souvenir if you leave with nothing else. jacquemus.com
A safari is unlike any other experience and Micato Safaris is unlike any other company: For every safari sold, we send a child to school. Contact your travel advisor for details.
Palo Alto, California – San Francisco’s old-money icon Wilkes Bashford has reupped its commitment to hyper-personalized and immersive shopping with a 25,000-square-foot satellite flagship in Palo Alto in Silicon Valley. Along with collections from the likes of Brunello Cucinelli, Lanvin, The Row, Veronica Beard and Thom Browne dancing inside the bright, coastalinspired space, skylighted cases glitter with jewels by Sidney Garber, Nam Cho and more. Plus, there's an espresso bar. Privacy is ensured in a large, upstairs VIP suite, complete with a full kitchen for catering — perfect for all-day sprees under the care of an attentive style advisor. wilkesbashford.com
Paris and Atlanta – Ann Huff and Meg Harrington specialize in a timeless mélange of old and new, sleek and ornate. That lively juxtaposition of handpicked Paris antiques with contemporary gallery art is the signature style of Huff Harrington Home in Atlanta’s Buckhead — and now, too, in Paris' 17th arrondissement. “It’s the magic of the mix,” says Huff. In both shops, aspirational vignettes of all things maison are punctuated with curated art from more than 50 artists. huffharrington.com
Come aboard the brand-new ship, Sun Princess®. Elegant suites, world-class dining and premium amenities setting sail towards the destination of your dreams. Contact a travel professional for additional information.
THESE ARE THE REHABS, REVIVALS AND ARRIVALS ON OUR RADAR FOR SPRING.
Orvieto, Italy – The sleepy Umbrian town of Orvieto may not be on most travelers’ radars, but the nine-room Palazzo Petrvs — a 15th-century residence turned boutique hotel in the village center — is quickly changing that. The awardwinning restoration by Giuliano Andrea dell’Uva is playful and contemporary yet respectful. Somber architecture and funky lamps, exquisitely coffered ceilings and minimalistic, bespoke furnishings plus black-and-white-striped details scattered throughout its three floors forge a timeless connection to the nearby Duomo, one of Italy’s finest cathedrals. The icing on the cake, though, is the oh-so-romantic restaurant, Coro, housed in a deconsecrated church. $
JUST GOING TO HAVE A PEEK IN HERE
Around the World – The hotel gift shop is alive and well. A fab Bottega Veneta has opened at Rosewood Miramar Beach in Montecito, California, and, farther down the coast, a Saks Fifth Avenue Club has sprung up inside a villa at Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa . And in Turkey, a Cartier boutique has opened at Mandarin Oriental, Bodrum . However, our favorite new hotelretail collab might be at The St. Regis New York , which has partnered with Alexis Bittar . The whimsical jeweler has created an extremely limited capsule collection of necklaces, brooches and earrings ($245 – $645) inspired by Caroline Astor’s welldocumented Gilded Age obsession with pearls and flowers — displayed in a vitrine inside the hotel and instantly available for impulse purchases via QR code.
ANOTHER ON-TIME DEPARTURE
London, England – Louis Vuitton has opened another ultraluxe airport lounge, this time in London, next to its new boutique inside Heathrow’s Terminal 2. The French brand has partnered with Parisian chef and pâtissier Cyril Lignac (of Le Chardenoux, Bar des Prés and others) to open Le Café Cyril Lignac. Dramatic, curved white walls and a mobile of colorful quetzals give the cafe an air of whimsy. The all-day menu features bistro favorites like truffled croque monsieur, crab salad and the chef’s famous pastries and chocolates.
Bangkok, Thailand – They’re back! After a three-year break, chefs Duangporn “Bo" Songvisava and Dylan Jones have reopened Bo.lan , their moody Sukhumvit venue, once again offering sumptuous, samrub-style fine dining experiences. Brace yourself for intense Thai spiciness and delightful waves of freshness. The signature tasting menus are a journey into Thailand’s culinary heritage and sustainability — with every sauce, garnish and paste prepared in-house to preserve the ingredients’ flavors and natural textures. This is one of the toughest reservations in town, but worth the persistence. bolan.co.th
Turks & Caicos – She’s had some work done, and this recent revamp of The Palms Turks and Caicos looks like $18 million well spent. Fresh interiors for the already spacious guest rooms, a transformed infinity-pool deck and a chic new oceanfront restaurant, Si Si, make this 20-year-old, colonial-inspired resort on Grace Bay Beach feel like new. The whimsical poolbar canopy is a stunning work of contemporary art. And the 25,000-square-foot spa — ooh la la. Meanwhile, those panoramic views of turquoise waters will never get old. $$
New York, New York – After a four-year restoration, The Frick Collection reopens in mid-April in its Gilded Age mansion and, come June, the completely redesigned first floor will showcase “Vermeer’s Love Letters.” On the previously off-limits second floor, new public galleries will allow visitors to view rarely exhibited and recently acquired works. Meanwhile, just up the street in May, The Metropolitan Museum of Art will unveil its extensively renovated Michael C. Rockefeller Wing, which also has been closed since 2021. The wing holds treasures from Africa, Oceania and the Ancient Americas, including an updated gallery for Andean textiles.
Experience the full palette of southern France, from the rocky mountains of Provence to the pristine beaches of Saint-Tropez. Explore the hillsides that inspired artists like Matisse, Van Gogh and Cézanne. Then venture to the glamorous French Riviera to stroll through fabulous shops and palm tree-lined promenades.
With three extraordinary hotels, plus exquisite dining and expert Trip Leaders managing all of your logistics, you’ll vacation in style the whole way through.
Biking • Walking & Hiking • Multi-Adventure Family Trips • Women’s Adventures
Explore trips in Alsace, Bordeaux, Corsica, the French Alps, Provence and many more!
Contact your travel advisor for more information
BORDEAUX, CAIRO, CARTAGENA… DISPATCHES FROM THE RIVERFRONTS
AmaWaterways has ventured onto Colombia’s Magdalena River, where no passenger ships have sailed in more than 60 years. On eight-day voyages between Cartagena and Barranquilla, the new 60-passenger AmaMagdalena explores the lush Magdalena basin, home to flora and fauna not seen anywhere else in the world. Not content with one ship, the company is slated to add another on the same river before year’s end: the 64-passenger AmaMelodia Rates from $3,089.
Avalon Waterways just expanded its offerings in France, now sailing for the first time in the Bordeaux wine region. The freshly refurbished Artistry II will now ply the Garonne and Dordogne rivers on weekly eight-day cruises through midNovember this year. The 128-passenger ship sails round trip from Bordeaux, with visits to Cadillac-sur-Garonne, CussacFort-Médoc, Blaye, Bourge-et-Comin and Libourne. Activities include touring castles, e-biking through vineyards, sampling Sauternes and Cognac, and baking pastries in a château. The Bordeaux cruises sync up perfectly with four-day tours of Paris by Globus , Avalon’s parent company. Globus’ independent tours offer guided sightseeing combined with plenty of free time. Rates from $4,209; Globus tours of Paris from $749.
WRITING: DON NICHOLS
In Egypt this fall, Viking’s launch of two new 82-passenger vessels, Viking Amun and Viking Thoth , will increase its fleet on the Nile to eight — and soon to be 10, with two additional ships slated for launch in 2026. The company’s 12-day programs start with a three-night stay in Cairo, followed by an eight-day cruise to Luxor and back. Rates from $5,999
Playing the traditional links of Scotland is a golfer's dream
But it can also be a logistical riddle. So we set sail with Azamara Cruises — which partners with PerryGolf — aboard the 702-passenger Quest for a 12-night voyage that had us teeing off at five legendary courses, including Cruden Bay in Aberdeenshire, Castle Stuart at Cabot Highlands and a charming little club in the Orkney Islands, before heading to England’s Royal Birkdale Golf Club, the location of the 2026 Open. All logistics were covered: tee times, greens fees, caddies, lunches and transfers to and from the ship. They even had our golf bags waiting for us at each clubhouse. On board, despite the relatively large guest count, the ship never felt crowded; we had the wellness center almost entirely to ourselves. Importantly, after all that golf (no carts allowed), the bed was exceedingly comfortable. We thoroughly enjoyed the entire journey. Cabin to book : Spa suite, for its glass-enclosed tub facing the ocean. Good to know : The premium drink package includes only house wine and liquor. Upgrade to the ultimate package for merely $8 more per day. Azamara golf itineraries visit more than 80 countries, with cruises this year in the British Isles, the Mediterranean and Japan, starting around $2,100. Your advisor can create a detailed itinerary, including pre- and post-cruise hotels and experiences.
Ten years after inking its deal with the James Beard Foundation to bring prominent American restaurant chefs aboard, Windstar Cruises continues that revolutionary partnership. On tap this year: Cookbook author and Atlanta restaurateur Jennifer Hill Booker joins the 312-passenger Star Legend ’s Baltic cruise in June. As the Foundation’s current Impact Fellow, Booker, who's known for Southern food with a French/German accent, says she’s excited to educate and inspire her shipmates with local market tours and multicourse dinners on board. And, come August, Jennifer Jasinski, previous Best Chef Southwest and owner of Denver’s Bistro Vendôme, Ultreia, etc., joins the 342-guest Wind Surf as Windstar's masted flagship sails the Adriatic with foodie-focused stops in Croatia, Montenegro and Greece. JBF culinary itineraries from about $4,600.
Packing for a cruise is already hard enough. But don't overdo it. You're going to need some extra room in the suitcase for a souvenir or two:
AN EXCLUSIVE SCENT Explora Journeys tapped renowned master perfumer Alberto Morillas to curate the cruise line’s signature scent, Mandala Blue , meant to capture that moment when the hot sun gets caught in a brisk sea breeze. It’s heavenly. And it’s available in the ships’ on-board boutiques as a diffuser ($99), a body lotion ($47) and a liquid soap ($36).
EXQUISITE LINENS Crystal ’s secret weapon might very well be its cotton sateen pillowcases by Jesurum Venezia 1870 , the venerable Italian brand. The exclusive partnership means these luxurious linens are also available for sale on board, because it’s inevitable that you’ll end up wanting a set or two to take home. Available at the front desk (pillowcases from $60).
TAKE A CRUISE. COME HOME WITH COOL STUFF.
WRITING: DON NICHOLS
DISTINCTIVE GINS Cunard partners with Summerhall Distillery in Edinburgh to craft 4 Queens Gins, because what would a Cunard cruise be without a proper gin and tonic? The smooth London Dry gins come in four distinctive expressions designed to channel the routes most associated with each of Cunard’s four ships. They’re also poured in all of the ships' various bars, so you can sample each before committing to stocking your home liquor cabinet (750 mL, $43; gift set of four 50-mL bottles, $22).
COZY NORDIC SWEATERS Dale of Norway , the 146-year-old Norwegian company revered for its superiorquality sweaters , makes a fashionable line exclusively for Viking Cruises — a men’s zippered pullover in gray or navy blue, and a women’s cardigan in red — sold on board its ocean and expedition vessels (from around $300).
There’s nothing else like it – privately guided travel that’s customized exactly the way you want in over 120 countries worldwide. It’s a truly personal journey that brings your dream to life in unforgettable style.
Speak to your preferred Travel Advisor today
New York
Assouline’s new Fifth Avenue: 200 Years of Stories and Legends ($120) takes a look at the street that grew to define New York City shopping. The book comprehensively illustrates how fashion dramatically transformed what was once a quiet (yes, shocking) street into one of the busiest in the world. assouline.com
THREE GORGEOUS NEW BOOKS TRANSPORT US TO THE CROSSROADS OF STYLE AND WANDERLUST.
WRITING: RAMONA SAVISS
Also from Assouline, Madrid Chic ($120) celebrates the finer aspects of Spanish culture — past and present — in Madrid, opening a door to the city’s traditionally tight-knit society. The book covers everything from distinguished aristocrats to the young artists of the current era, blending old and new — much like the city itself. assouline.com
Taschen’s beautiful new storybook, Valentino. A Grand Italian Epic ($100), reintroduces us to the man and story behind Rome’s most iconic brand. A chronological examination of the life and work of Valentino Garavani comes alive with drawings, photographs and stories from the designer’s private archives, highlighting his enduring contributions not just to fashion but to Italian style at large. taschen.com
“Travel and food are the ultimate ways of bringing people together –to savor unique flavors, experience different destinations and create shared memories.”
Oceania Cruises Culinary and Brand Ambassador
ALL HAIL THE FRENCH PHARMACIES, WHERE YOU’LL ALWAYS FIND A MOTHER LODE OF BEAUTY TREASURES.
Paris, France
CONTRIBUTING BEAUTY EDITOR: BEANIE STOLPER
The find: This luxurious balm transforms from oil to milk, deeply cleansing while hydrating and soothing the skin. It’s perfect for dry or combination skin, offering a gentle, hydrating cleanse for a radiant complexion.
– Vitamin C 10% Serum
The find: This lightweight serum brightens skin and fights signs of aging — a must for a glowing, even skin tone.
The find: This tinted cream with SPF 50 hydrates and gives an immediate, radiant glow — both protecting and boosting your complexion.
The find: This sandalwood fragrance with ylangylang and cumin is perfect for layering to create a signature scent that’ll remind you of Paris.
ALTESSE STUDIO – Beauté Hairbrush ($264)
The find: IYKYK. This gentle French brush detangles without breakage, evenly distributes hair products and reduces drying time for a smooth, tangle-free finish. Bonus: It’s sustainably made.
Indulge in a luxurious river cruise through Bordeaux with Avalon Waterways—where world-class wines, charming villages, and breathtaking landscapes await.
CONTACT YOUR TRAVEL PROFESSIONAL TO PLAN YOUR NEXT VACATION.
WE TRUST MOST SPAS TO GIVE US A GOOD MASSAGE. BUT ENTRUSTING ONE’S HAIR TO THE HOTEL’S BEAUTY PARLOR? AT THESE HOTELS: ABSOLUTELY!
WRITING: KATHRYN ROMEYN ILLUSTRATIONS: BIJOU KARMAN
Beverly Hills, California
After nearly 90 years in the city’s Golden Triangle, Gornik & Drucker recently relocated to the basement of Maybourne Beverly Hills. The old-school barbershop offers hot-towel shaves, hairstyling, manicures and shoe shines.
New York, New York
The Rossano Ferretti Hairspa recently opened a new Manhattan flagship at the Park Hyatt New York. It’s a hub of pampering, hair treatments and the signature “invisible” haircut dubbed the Ferretti Metodo.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Tucked into the historic townhouses of , the glamorous new — with its fabulous, lipstickred–tiled shampoo room — is dedicated to all things hair, from color and cuts to head-centric spa therapies.
FROM RESTLESS HANDS TO GLOBAL SCAVENGER HUNTS: HOW A SELF-DESCRIBED SURF BUM BECAME HOLLYWOOD’S LATEST IT DESIGNER.
Los Angeles, California
So. Much. Fabric. Hundreds — many hundreds — of bolts of old fabrics spill out from ceiling-high shelves in Tristan Detwiler’s downtown Los Angeles atelier, which more closely resembles an antique fabric store than a designer’s studio.
Detwiler, a dead ringer for Ryan Gosling, answers the door wearing an antistyle-yet-very-put-together combo of old jeans and a faded sweatshirt, his sun-bleached curly locks peeking out from beneath a well-worn cap. He presents as the very definition of a dichotomy: All ripped body and stubbly scruff, this 6-foot-tall sportsman with musculature to spare is one and the same as the eponymous clothier — with an avowed love of tradition and ritual — whose intricate patchwork jackets and slouchy, grain-sack suits have come to define L.A.’s latest indie menswear sensation, STAN.
“I guess I am kind of a dichotomy,” the 28-year-old California native admits, chuckling. “I think everybody is. I’m a triathlete, an ironman. I surf most mornings, but that’s only one side of me. I’ve got a technical engineering background from USC. However, I’ve always needed to work with my hands. I crafted origami as a kid.”
After university — it was the pandemic era — Detwiler abandoned engineering and bought a sewing machine, diving headfirst into his own singular school of fashion. He started making one-of-a-kind pieces crafted from vintage and repurposed fabrics that he personally scavenged from his travels: surplus grain sacks from Germany, denim from Japan, heritage angora from Turkey, table linens from the South of France, a mohair blanket from Portugal… Detwiler describes his vision for STAN as the Old West via modern California, with a charming dose of folk art.
Detwiler describes his vision for STAN as the Old West via modern California, with a charming dose of folk art.
STAN's fabrics are based on utility and longevity. Before industrialization, he explains, out of necessity, families repurposed old material and clothing into quilts. Those quilts told important stories, but “most have no purpose anymore in terms of bedding. I want them to be viewed in a more accessible way.” People pass on different categories of fabric, and he carries the torch with “storytelling by fashion.”
Everything Detwiler sells is one-of-a-kind: handembroidered chore coats, paneled-leather jackets, blazers pieced together from French tablecloths, quilted coats tied with American wool, linen drawstring pants. And since everything has to be made by hand anyway, much of it is entirely bespoke, requiring highly personal fabric selection and studio fittings.
Celebrity Xcel doesn’t just bring you to some of the world’s best places. It brings those places along for the ride. With The Bazaar, we’re no longer just blurring the line between ship and shore. We’re erasing the line completely. From the culture, flavors, sights, and sounds of the destinations you’ll visit to the local festivals they’re famous for, the experience is so authentic, you won’t even know you’re not there, yet.
In 2023, Detwiler worked nonstop for 10 months on a full retail collection that he never wound up showing. “I just didn’t like that process: the lack of stories, producing in factories, the hands-off approach. It didn’t feel, at the heart of me, like what I want to do. Overproduction serves nobody.”
His artisanal approach seems to be working. Detwiler took home the Fashion Group International’s Rising Star Award in 2022, and The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York requested a quilted STAN ensemble that same year for “Exhibit America: A Lexicon of Fashion."
The detail, the intricacy and his slow-fashion philosophy compares to that of much more established luxury brands focused on craftsmanship, not volume. “The business model of Hermès Birkin bags — that’s the ideal I aspire to,” he says.
Details:
Atelier by appointment only. Shirts from about $890; pants from $1,300; jackets and outerwear from $2,200. Most online ready-to-wear garments are size medium; other items and sizes by special order, completed in about eight weeks. stanlosangeles.com
Indulgence has never looked so good.
Live well in each moment.
Savor artisanal cuisine, revitalize in the spa,and enlighten your curiosity with curated experiences, all against a backdrop of a turquoise sea.
Embrace the lush beauty of the Riviera Maya at Impression Moxché by Secrets or the serenity of island living at Impression Isla Mujeres by Secrets. Discover luxury that’s uniquely yours, with exceptional service personalized to your needs.
For a vacation that’s All Ways Yours, request a Luxe by Funjet Vacations getaway.
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DARING SPRING COLLECTIONS FROM ALAÏA, JIL SANDER, FERRAGAMO AND OTHERS AWAKEN AN ADVENTUROUS SPIRIT. IT’S THE PERFECT EXCUSE TO EXPLORE THE SOUKS, WHERE HERITAGE CRAFTSMANSHIP AND DRAMATIC ACCESSORIES COMPLEMENT THE REFINED ELEGANCE OF TODAY’S COUTURE.
Marrakech, Morocco
Funky Cool Medina: (Top) Bibi wears a Jil Sander capeeffect draped wool-blend coat ($3,150), Calzedonia 50 denier tights ($15), Khaite patent leather cage sandal ($920) and Lara Sonmez Lili ring ($630). (Opposite) Bibi wears a Bode sequin-embellished cap ($345), Kallmeyer Solange fringe tunic ($2,915), The Row silk satin shorts ($2,275), AGMES synergy ring ($420), AGMES Turner ring ($500), AGMES Marta ring ($250) and LEMAIRE full-grain leather loafers ($755).
PHOTOGRAPHY: SU MÜSTECAPLIOĞLU
ART & CREATIVE DIRECTION: DEVIN DUCKWORTH
STYLING: CAITLIN BURKE
BEAUTY: JOEL PHILLIPS
MODELING: BIBI ABDULKADIR @ PREMIER
PHOTO ASSISTANT: AILBHE REDDY
STYLIST ASSISTANT: TYLER SPARLING
RETOUCHING: TUNA AYDINLIOĞLU
LOCATION : ROYAL MANSOUR MARRAKECH
LOGISTICAL SUPPORT : EXPLORE MARRAKECH
Head Case Scenarios: (Above) Bibi wears a Jean Paul Gaultier vintage wool embroidered beanie (stylist’s own), Jil Sander bouclé knit fringed crop jacket ($4,890), Maison Margiela wide-leg trouser ($1,165) and Flattered Ilse leather loafers ($325). (Opposite, top) Bibi wears a Ferragamo turtle-neck dress with tulip skirt ($3,700), Prada satin pumps ($1,170) and Lara Sonmez Lili ring ($630). (Bottom) Bibi wears a Marni white nappa single-breasted blazer ($3,600), with vintage Berber silver belts and headpiece.
Tucked behind a majestic gate within the ancient city walls, Royal Mansour Marrakech unfolds like a private medina with 53 riads — a romantic fairy tale of vibrant hues and intricate textures. The hotel’s labyrinth of alleyways, secret courtyards, restaurants and pools offers an antidote to the frenzy on the outside. Prepare to be spoiled rotten. No detail is left unattended. Our favorite things: breathtaking sunsets on the rooftop terrace, silky-soft sheets and blackout drapery. Don’t miss: decadent desserts at La Grande Brasserie by Hélène Darroze. Also of note: Following closely behind the debut of Royal Mansour Casablanca, a third hotel — Royal Mansour Tamuda Bay, overlooking the Mediterranean coast — has just joined the collection.
Your advisor can secure Select perks, including a $100 resort credit as well as complimentary daily breakfast for two.
An indispensable partner in Morocco, Mikrotour Idi Marrakech works hand-in-hand with travel advisors to craft bespoke experiences. These are their top recommendations.
Aya's
An atelier offering customizable caftans and djellabas hand-embroidered with silk thread. ayasmarrakech.com
LRNCE
Lifestyle boutique producing handmade housewares and goods that celebrate the diversity of Moroccan craft. lrnce.com
Maisonartc.
A sustainable fashion house creating vibrant, one-of-a-kind pieces made from repurposed vintage fabrics incorporating Moroccan heritage and technique. maisonartc.com
Maroc'n Roll
YSL’s protégé partners with a women’s co-op of about 60 artisans crafting intricate silken tunics, silver jewelry, velvet evening bags and more. @robertmerloz
Marrakshi LIFE
Master weavers create sustainable, made-to-order fashions and textiles honoring traditional craftsmanship and modern design. marrakshilife.com
Ministero del Gusto
Modern art gallery, design studio and showroom with one-off pieces of furniture and jewelry by artists from around the world. By appointment only. ministerodelgusto.com
Noureddine Amir
Rabat-born designer who meticulously shapes couture pieces for men and women that are more sculptural adornments than clothing. noureddineamir.com
Soufiane Zarib
Tasteful, handpicked collection of vintage Berber rugs. Shipping offered. By appointment only . soufiane-zarib.com
Valerie Barkowski
Save room in your suitcase for tasseled bath towels, ceramics and hand-embroidered duvet covers. By appointment only. valeriebarkowski.com
Yahya
Part gallery, part showroom, this boutique produces a diverse range of intricate products from lighting and furniture to decorative accessories. yahya-group.com
SEARCHING FOR ELEPHANTS, LIONS, ZEBRAS AND… IS THAT ORION OR SIRIUS? WILDLIFE SPOTTING IN BOTSWANA IS SECOND TO NONE. IT’S ALSO THE PERFECT HABITAT FOR STARGAZING — THE FOCUS OF A NEW ADVENTURE BY BELMOND.
Okavango Delta, Botswana
For the first time in three days of safaris, I desperately hoped not to meet another lion. It was well after sunset in the heart of Botswana’s Okavango Delta, and our group of six was standing in the clearing of a savanna, gazing up at a sky so unpolluted by light, it felt like staring into infinity. The Southern Hemisphere’s constellations burned bright. The Southern Cross hung low on the horizon. Orion’s Betelgeuse star dazzled in red.
While elephants rustled the mopani trees around us, Paul Sheller, our affable guide and passionate astronomer, pointed his telescope toward yet another galaxy. “The light we see there now left long before humans even existed,” he said. “We’re looking 20 million years back in time.”
The same might be said of Botswana itself. This is a place where the passage of a million years has been carved into granite hills and swirled into the tannin-black waters of its river deltas. On the surface, it’s the fourth-flattest country on Earth, but — I learned from Sheller during this new African stargazing safari with Belmond — its depths reveal an ancient history. Decades of roaming the Kalahari have afforded this guide a unique perspective on the land and its people. As he connected tales of the stars above with the ancient landscapes below, it became clear that every aspect of this trip, celestial and terrestrial, was part of the same story.
Sheller’s connection to Botswana runs deeper than that of most outsiders. Decades ago, as a young Peace Corps volunteer, he requested “the remotest place you have” and was sent to the Central Kalahari as a survey officer. Tasked with mapping the lives and needs of the indigenous Bushmen, he spent years immersed in their world, learning how they thrived and lived in harmony with one of the planet’s harshest environments. That formative experience set him on a path of conservation and advocacy, and even today, he still draws from the wisdom of those early lessons.
On our first evening, seated on the terrace of Belmond’s Eagle Island Lodge — with a negroni in hand — we watched a herd of elephants romp at the watering hole mere meters away. They play-fought and kicked up dust, silhouetted against a sky bleeding orange and gold. The tableau shifted in the fading light: first, the lengthening shadows, then bulky outlines, and finally their absence as bats took to the sky and a chorus of frogs began to sing. It was a scene as old as time, repeated day after day since the Homo sapiens first emerged in the nearby Makgadikgadi salt pan, believed to be the cradle of humankind. “In a way,” Sheller said, gesturing to our group, “we’ve all come back home.”
The Bushmen’s ancestors have left their marks on these hillsides, allowing us a peek into their lives more than 3,000 years later.
That connection to an ancient past became even more tangible the next day, on a helicopter visit to Tsodilo Hills, a series of granite and quartzite outcroppings rising from Botswana’s northwestern plains. The rocks are so revered by the Bushmen, also known as the San people, that our helicopter couldn’t fly over the so-called Male Hill for fear of falling from the sky. The Bushmen’s ancestors have left their marks on these hillsides, allowing us a peek into their lives more than 3,000 years later.
As we climbed Female Hill, we passed boulders striped with fungi and centuries of oxidation. Here, shamans once entered trance-like states — a “small death,” they called it — to connect with the spirits of the land. Their visions live on as paintings from a mix of hematite, bone marrow and blood scribbled all over the hills’ surfaces. We passed clear images of elephants, giraffes and timeworn imprints of human hands. Eland — which, Sheller explained, stood as symbols of power at the top of the animal kingdom’s hierarchy — danced across the walls. Other illustrations were more ambiguous, like the vague outlines of whales and a pregnant penguin, which could possibly hint to the makers’ visits to Namibia’s Skeleton Coast.
The paintings’ intended meanings remain a subject of speculation. “I believe they’re the products of shamanic trances to make rain or summon animals,” Sheller said. “There must’ve been something very special about this place, because why would they go through all this effort otherwise? The best we can do is to get into the mindset of the people who made them.”
“For the perfect bush + beach combo, consider pairing Belmond’s Eagle Island Lodge with Kisawa Sanctuary in Mozambique. It’s one of the most understated luxury retreats in the world, a true sanctuary.”
—Elaina Graham, travel advisor
For Sheller, clues are written in the stars. “When we look at the astrology of different cultures, we often learn more about those cultures than we do about the stars,” he said. Some viewed the stars as ancestors; others read the galaxy as a celestial calendar. The Dogon people of Mali had inexplicable knowledge of Sirius’ dual stars long before telescopes confirmed their existence. The Kalahari Bushmen, meanwhile, saw the Milky Way as the spine of the sky and believed that insects, after falling silent at night, ascended to become lights in the darkness. The Bushmen read constellations such as Orion as stories of hunters and prey. “It explains how the Bushmen pictured themselves in the world around them, and the important role animals played in it,” Sheller said. “They knew that they were just a small part in a bigger system, and that the only way to survive is to understand and take care of it.”
This philosophy stood in stark contrast to the “Homo sapiens hubris,” our modern-day tendency to believe that we know how to run the natural world, which Sheller often lamented during our game drives around the Okavango’s plains. “Once we started managing wildlife, we started having problems,” he said, then went on to explain that Botswana’s wildebeest and zebra populations were decimated between 1970 and the early 2000s due to thousands of kilometers of cattle fencing blocking ancient migration routes. Luckily, a more hands-off conservation approach in subsequent years has allowed Botswana’s wildlife to prosper, turning the region into one of Africa’s best safari destinations.
As I climbed ancient rocks, ogled elephants on the plains and gazed at a sky full of stars, the delta offered a welcome reminder of my place in the grand scheme of things: a speck of dust in a vast, unending cosmos. On my last evening, as the moon sank below the horizon and the Kalahari’s dust rendered it red, I thought of what Sheller shared during one of his astronomy sessions. I had asked: Why did he love stargazing here? “Because it hurts my brain a little,” he replied. “Our galaxy is just one in a trillion out there. It stretches our imagination and reminds us how insignificant we are.”
Details:
Belmond’s new stargazing safari includes daily game drives, a helicopter excursion to the Tsodilo Hills and nightly star searches, all with expert insights from Paul Sheller. Optional extension to Belmond’s Savute Elephant Lodge in the Chobe Desert. Rates from $8,820 per person, per night. Your travel advisor can help plan all logistics, including pre- and post-safari hotel stays and excursions.
Can't get enough of the cosmos? Consider these resorts for stargazing. Your travel advisor can secure Select perks, including daily breakfast for two as well as a $100 resort credit.
Ambiente, A Landscape Hotel Sedona, Arizona – The landscape here is designated as an official “dark-sky community.” Ambiente's concierge can arrange a private rooftop stargazing session with a professional astronomer from the nearby observatory.
Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo Costa Rica – Guests can view and even photograph the moon and constellations using the resort’s massive, GPS-guided telescope. And the on-site digital lab has all the photo-processing tools.
THE MEETING POINT WHERE CHINA CONVERGES WITH THE REST OF ASIA HAS ALWAYS MANIFESTED AS A LIVELY ECOSYSTEM OF ART, CULTURE AND COMMERCE. TODAY IT ’ S HOME TO THE MOST DIZZYING CONTEMPORARY ART SCENE IN THE EAST. HERE ’ S A ROADMAP TO THE FINEST GALLERIES AND MUSEUMS IN THIS CONSTANTLY EVOLVING WONDERLAND.
Hong Kong
Spatial Awareness: Ruth Asawa’s “Doing Is Living” at the David Zwirner Gallery at the H Queen’s complex in Central, where Kurt wears a STAFFONLY jacket.
When it opened in 2021, M+ ( mplus.org.hk/en ) instantly became one of the most important cultural institutions in Asia. Much more than a museum (hence the ‘+'), it’s a place to explore global art and visual culture from an Asian perspective. The soaring, radiator-like architecture — by Herzog & de Meuron — alongside the nearby monolithic Hong Kong Palace Museum ( hkpm.org.hk/en ), which opened in 2022, has rejiggered the skyline on the Kowloon side of the harbor. This entire waterfront neighborhood is now a walkable park that hosts art and performance of all kinds.
INSIDER INSIGHT:
“When in Central, be sure to check out the Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong, which is a fusion of history and culture with spectacular artwork throughout. Of particular note in the lobby is a bronze Ming figure on horseback. Plus, the hotel has several murals by the late Gerard D'Alton Henderson.”
—Elizabeth Jordan, travel advisor
Housed in a complex of buildings that once served as the Central Police Station Compound, Tai Kwun (taikwun.hk/ en) is a maze of art galleries, shops, bars and restaurants, anchored by the Herzog & de Meuron-designed JC Contemporary, which hosts truly fascinating exhibitions. Recent shows have celebrated the works of Berlin-based Alicja Kwade and Beijing artists Hu Xiaoyuan and Tao Hui.
The H Queen's complex is a great starting point for gallery hopping in Hong Kong’s central business district. This sleek high-rise hosts, among others, the powerhouse galleries of David Zwirner ( davidzwirner.com ) and Pace ( pacegallery. com ), both home to rosters of high-demand international artists. Down a block, the global Gagosian ( gagosian. com ) has its outpost in the Pedder Building, and another block farther, you’ll find Hauser & Wirth ’s newly relocated storefront ( hauserwirth.com ).
“In addition to its art scene, Hong Kong is an amazing place for bespoke tailoring. For the all-encompassing VIP experience, Tai Pan Row and Attire House both deliver an ultra-exclusive touch.”
—Abigail Murthy, travel advisor
For a deeper dive into the locals’ perspective, head over The Peak and into the au courant Wong Chuk Hang neighborhood. Hidden inside the South Island’s industrial and office towers is Blindspot Gallery (blindspotgallery.com), which has been showcasing well-regarded artists from Hong Kong and China since 2010, as well as Rossi & Rossi (rossirossi.com) and Axel Vervoordt (axel-vervoordt.com) — all within walking distance of one another. Down that same road — just a quick cab ride to Aberdeen — check out the always-fascinating Empty Gallery (emptygallery.com) and EXIT (galleryexit.com).
Aside from all the dealers clustered in Central and South Island, numerous other venues are worth seeking out. In Wan Chai, consider Kiang Malingue Gallery, where you'll find emerging and established artists (kiangmalingue.com). Meanwhile, operating by appointment only (submit requests via WhatsApp) from within a 1970s clubhouse at an unlisted address in Bowrington is PHD Group ( phdgroup.art ). PHD’s founders, Ysabelle Cheung and Willem Molesworth, are well-known in art circles, having presented a noteworthy blend of younger artists from across Asia and America for years. Lastly, in the New Territories northwest of Kowloon, consider visiting CHAT , the Centre for Heritage, Arts and Textile ( mill6chat.org ), which shows cutting-edge fiber artists in the sprawling compounds of a former cotton mill.
Note: Exhibitions at these galleries change constantly. The works depicted may no longer be available.
A rooftop pool, welcome cocktails and morning coffee bar set the tone at this indulgent retreat. Luxe bathrobes, in-room dining, valet parking and a complimentary evening social hour elevate the experience. A modern fitness center ensures balance. Get everything you need—and all you could want—in a one-of-a-kind stay.
Celebrating a century of heritage, this Scottish estate blends country pursuits and pleasure. Wake to championship golf, horseback rides and spa treatments. Dining options include the two-Michelin-starred restaurant Andrew Fairlie. From outdoor adventures to fireside whisky tastings, every moment honors its past.
Built into a hillside forest with sweeping Ionian Sea views, this adults-only hideaway evokes a Corfiot village. Elegant suites—many with private pools or whirlpools— invite relaxation, while wellness programs, signature guest benefits and easy access to Corfu Old Town create a refined retreat in a breathtaking setting.
A luxurious playground in Pennsylvania’s Laurel Highlands, the 2,200-acre retreat blends grandeur with endless adventure. Unwind at a world-class spa, tee off on championship courses or ski and zip-line through the countryside. With a variety of stays, fine dining and a lively casino, every visit is a call to indulge.
Rising above Hong Kong Island’s financial district, the 399 rooms exude quiet luxury. Lung King Heen was the first Chinese restaurant in the world to earn three stars from Michelin (now just two, but as great as ever). Sublime French and Japanese cuisine, too. Sound meditation, craniosacral therapy and Chinese physiotherapy at the spa. Easy walk to the Central-Mid-Levels escalators. $$
THE LANGHAM, HONG KONG
Asia meets Europe at this grand, 498-room landmark in Kowloon’s Tsim Sha Tsui. Dine lavishly at the ultra-luxe Cantonese restaurant T’ang Court, then work it off inside the two-story gym at Chuan Body + Soul spa. Langham’s sleep-therapy programs include bedtime playlists. Adjacent to the cruise terminal and massive Harbour City mall. $
MANDARIN ORIENTAL, HONG KONG
Overlooking Connaught Road since 1963, this 447-room hotel is the original ‘Mandarin’ in Mandarin Oriental. A swirl of live music, famous cakes, timeless Chinese decor and old-school hospitality, the MO remains the poshest see-and-be-seen address in Central. Extraordinary roast duck at Man Wah. Oysters and caviar at The Aubrey. Rejuvenate at the Shanghainese-inspired spa. Walk to all the best shopping. $$
THE PENINSULA HONG KONG
The oldest luxury hotel in Kowloon — a colonial-style icon on Salisbury Road since 1928, now with 300 rooms — boasts a fleet of Rolls-Royces, an iconic high tea in the lobby, wildly popular Cantonese dim sum at Spring Moon and clandestine cocktails and live jazz in The Bar (if you can find it; just ask). Indoor pool with skyline views. The hotel recently debuted a series of art installations curated by London’s Victoria and Albert Museum. $$
Regent Hotels marked its spectacular comeback in 2023 by tapping designer Chi Wing Lo to gloriously reimagine what had long been known as the Intercontinental Hong Kong (but was originally the Regent from 1980 to 2001). Connected to Kowloon’s K11 MUSEA (glam shops and art galleries galore), the hotel’s 497 rooms — and incredible suites, some with hot tubs or infinity pools — offer spectacular, IMAX-like views of Victoria Harbour and the island skyline. Six restaurants and bars include the über-sexy Qura Bar. And don’t miss the stunning in-house art spaces highlighting local artists. $$
Rising 43 stories above the Victoria Dockside in Kowloon, Rosewood Hong Kong’s 413 rooms and sprawling residences put guests smack in the middle of the arts and design district. Eleven restaurants and bars include the newly opened Marmo Bistro (French) and, for whimsical afternoon tea, The Butterfly Room. Skin treatments by Dr. Barbara Sturm and a hair salon by Rossano Ferretti. Call the hotel’s in-house art ambassador for a tour of the private collection. $$$
This is the hotel in Admiralty that, years ago, catapulted designer André Fu into the spotlight as Asia’s master of swank. The fishbowl views from the 117 rooms can be either exhilarating or soothing, depending on the direction. The dining room of the André Fu suite accommodates a seated party of 18. Golden-hour cocktails on The Lawn. Crystal healing and laser therapy in the spa. $$
Your travel advisor can secure Internova Select perks, including a $100 hotel credit as well as daily breakfast for two, at any of these properties.
Open the door to the incomparable value of allinclusive, ultra-luxury cruising on Seabourn. Guests will feel right at home in our intimate yacht-like atmosphere pampered by intuitive personalized service. Ensconced in a spacious oceanfront suite, guests can explore all seven continents, savor gourmet dining around the world, and enjoy complimentary premium wines and spirits.
Contact your Travel Advisor for More Information
Moments after our pickup departs the water-taxi dock, whizzing along the road that zigzags across Santa Cruz Island en route to Pikaia Lodge, I spot something in the grass. “Stop the truck! Please!” I say, frantically rummaging for my camera. “I have to get a picture of that turtle.”
“That’s not a turtle,” the lodge’s naturalist responds, motioning to our driver to hit the brakes. “That’s a tortoise. Tortoises have feet and live on land. Turtles have flippers and live in the water.”
My cheeks redden. My ears burn. Embarrassed, I ask: “How old is that thing? Its skin looks like dinosaur hide.” Everything I know about dinosaurs, I learned from watching Jurassic Park . The guide explains that some tortoises live for 150 years, maybe 175. Scientists haven’t been able to pinpoint the ages of the elders, he says.
The tortoises — along with dolphins, penguins, iguanas, sea lions and countless other creatures — attract hordes of tourists to these islands, where Charles Darwin first crystallized his hypothesis for the theory of evolution.
Oddly, none of that’s what motivated me to make the trek. I didn’t think tortoises would be that interesting. But I’d been watching in awe as restaurants in Ecuador steadily climbed the ranks of Latin America’s top-rated kitchens. I had also discovered a chef on Instagram: Cristian Puente of Pikaia’s Evolution, which hadn’t yet garnered that same level of attention for Galápagos that Quito and Guayaquil were getting. So, after endless doomscrolling, here I am, surprisingly fascinated by the giant tortoises.
The tortoises attract hordes of tourists to these islands, but that’s not what motivated me to make this trek.
“What was your highlight today?” asks a fellow guest at the bar, a wealth manager from New York on vacation with his family. It’s a popular question because the hotel keeps everyone busy with nonstop land adventures and yacht excursions.
“Most definitely the tuna,” I say.
“Oh, you went out on the yacht?”
“No,” I clarify, “the tuna ceviche at lunch, by the pool — the one with soursop and deep-fried cassava leaves?”
He seems confused. “Doesn’t cassava contain cyanide?”
I feel my ears heat up again, like I should have known that. But then it clicks: When the chef described the dish at lunch, he had mentioned “it’s safe to eat when fried.”
On second thought, I could have picked red snapper, a different ceviche. The snapper floats atop a bright-orange emulsion of Andean tree tomatoes and annatto oil. This, too, is incredible. A bite of fish, a bite of popcorn. Mmm.
The money manager has disappeared by the time I remember the macambo beans. I discovered these in a dessert, a tart filled with a salted-macambo caramel and topped with freshly churned ice cream. I’m just daydreaming now, talking to myself, groaning.
Every meal at Evolution becomes a parade of curiosities steeped in a strong sense of time and place: scorpion fish tartare with nasturtium leaves and lemon-ponzu gelée, the cutest golf-pencil-sized cannoli filled with lobster, or a two-bite taco crafted of beetroot, or a soufflé of baby corn (called humita) with confit figs and guava vinegar… “I use my grandmother’s humita recipe for that,” explains the chef.
The official currency in Ecuador and Galápagos is the U.S. Dollar. All flights to the islands connect through Quito or Guayaquil — where before boarding the connection — you’ll need to purchase a transit card in the airport for $20. Upon arrival in Galápagos, all foreign visitors must pay a park tax of $200 per person ($100 for young children), strictly cash only.
Puente, who grew up in Ecuador's Andean mountains, helped launch the restaurant when Pikaia (pronounced pick- aya ) open nearly a decade ago, but he ascended to top toque more recently. One afternoon, while hiking with Puente on a nearby island, he taps me on the shoulder and says, “Look down there. See that cove, all blue and green? That’s my favorite spot.” Later, walking along the water’s edge, he notices a moss-covered lava rock. “Look at that,” he says.
OK, odd, but duly noted.
The 14-room adventure lodge, a member of Relais & Châteaux, crowns a long-dormant volcano blanketed with flora, around which wild horses run free and tortoises live a life of leisure. The minimalist architecture by Humberto Plaza juts out from the volcanic hilltop, with a row of glass-and-steel boxes — luxuriously appointed rooms with panoramic views — balanced on stilts. The lodge exists chiefly as a base camp for exploring the Galápagos' many islands, via Pikaia's 150-foot yacht M/Y Vision . But that doesn’t deter the restaurant from embracing Michelin-style refinement, especially at dinnertime, when servers carry rulers to discreetly measure and finesse each setting.
While dining on my final night, as manager/sommelier James Antonio Cevallos uncorks a fragrant sauvignon blanc from the Loire Valley, Puente emerges with a smirk on his face, placing his newest prized creation in front of me: a moss-covered rock on a plate that perfectly mimics that blue-green cove we saw earlier.
“It’s not a rock,” he assures, before walking away. It’s the local snapper. The blackened, lava-like crust tastes of charred purple corn. The fuzzy “moss” is chillangua powder, made from a plant also known as culantro. The sauce underneath: Mmm, coconut. It’s the perfect distillation of Galápagos.
The money manager waves conspicuously from across the dining room, giddily pointing to his plate. I squint to see what he might be eating.
Oh, right. It’s the cassava.
Pikaia Lodge, Galápagos
This 14-room Relais & Châteaux lodge requires three nights minimum, inclusive of meals and daily excursions. Lovely spa. Getting there : From Baltra Island airport (GPS) in North Seymour, Pikaia guests are escorted to a private (albeit rugged) water taxi that crosses the channel to Santa Cruz Island, where a driver awaits to whisk you to the lodge. Your travel advisor can secure Select perks, including a $100 resort credit. $$$$
In lieu of a long layover in Quito, add an extra day or two to enjoy the city. Here are two Ecuadorean restaurants to try: one fancy, one casual — both outstanding.
Hushed elegance with tasting menus and wine pairings. ($200) zazuquito.com
Marbella, Spain
The allure of the South has enchanted artists and aristocrats for centuries. Curiosity about that eternal attraction — plus, perhaps, the fact that his family had been expropriated by the Czechoslovak Socialist Republic and had to go somewhere — is what enticed Prince Max Egon of Hohenlohe-Langenburg to drive his coal-powered Rolls-Royce Phantom to Marbella, then just a small coastal village. It was love at first sight.
Soon after, the nobleman instructed his son Alfonso to buy Finca Santa Margarita, an idyllic beachside property that became the family’s Mediterranean escape. This is how the story began.
A decade on, Alfonso’s forward-thinking vision, helped along by his cousin Rudi, transformed the Finca into a Californiainspired motel — and a legend was born. Practically overnight, the Marbella Club became a glamorous, global hot spot.
Today, large-format color images by iconic photographer Slim Aarons conjure the spirit of an Andalusian dolce vita — a time when the likes of Brigitte Bardot and Audrey Hepburn set the standard for a new chic: the Costa del Sol style.
Elegance lies in the simple things here — never too loud, never ostentatious.
In 2024, the resort blew out 70 candles. She ages gracefully. The 130-key property now boasts eight restaurants and bars — from the silver service of El Grill to the bohemian ambience of Rudi’s cocktail bar — plus its own Beauty Studio, a hair spa and the cutest barbershop. An on-site retail haven dubbed El Patio brings together heritage brands as well as unique, handcrafted pieces by family-owned businesses. (Check out the über-colorful, one-of-a-kind Rianna + Nina boutique and the handpicked selection from the Marbella Club signature shop.)
Although the resort is now a far cry from the simple coastal inn it once was, its spirit remains unchanged: a destination for simple pleasures, alfresco lunches and poolside backgammon tournaments. And, most importantly, it is a place of connections — with people and with nature.
Here, embracing sustainability feels completely instinctive. Alongside its focus on biodiversity conservation, the hotel transitioned to 100 percent renewable energy, reducing its global waste output by 30 percent and eliminating the need for 300,000 single-use plastic water bottles. It’s been an intense effort that was rewarded with the Butterfly Mark certification from Positive Luxury last year.
“For New Yorkers, the nonstop flights to Málaga make this a convenient getaway. Marbella has a lively social scene, and a footpath connects the various hotels, restaurants and beach clubs. The Marbella Club is like a small village, just as suitable for friends wanting the nightlife as it is for families with kids.”
—Kim Greulich, travel advisor
Nestled between La Concha Mountain in the background and the blue sea in the foreground, Club Marbella is a veritable Eden that comprises more than 300 different plants and flowers; olive groves alternate with citrus and pine trees, pink and red oleanders and climbing vines of bougainvillea.
“No building should be higher than the tallest tree,” Alfonso is known to have insisted. The seeds he brought back from journeys around the world grew into impressive trees, among them a huge African acacia, one of the hotel’s focal points.
Every tree, every bush has a story to tell. And last year, those seeds blossomed, metaphorically, with the acquisition of neighboring Finca Ana María, once owned by the von Bismarck family. Thanks to a partnership with the Parisian institution Deyrolle and Prince Louis Albert de Broglie, aka the Gardener Prince, a five-year project is turning the area into an immersive sanctuary of flora and fauna — with a magical Cabinet of Curiosities, a kitchen garden and shop with more than 100 heritage tomato varieties, and a natural maze of acacias. The new space inspires and educates at the same time, a tribute to the hotel’s botanical legacy.
Epicurean Expeditions by Atlas’” invites you to immerse yourself in Mediterranean cuisine and wine traditions. Explore with Gastronomic Guests and Visiting Vintners, including a local winemaker or sommelier. Enrich your knowledge with onboard wine tastings and cooking classes. Join fellow explorers on shore excursions exploring regional fl avors. From farmhouse pasta workshops in the Italian countryside, to Paella feasts on the coast of Spain, it’s the perfect setting to experience the Mediterranean in new ways and connect with fellow adventurers.
ANTARCTICA / SOUTH AMERICA / CARIBBEAN & BERMUDA / TRANSOCEANIC
MEDITERRANEAN / NORTHERN EUROPE / ARCTIC
ALWAYS INCLUDED BY ATLAS
Expedition Guides + Enriching Experiences, Atlas Immersive Experience, Unlimited Wines + Spirits, L’OCCITANE Amenities, Gratuities and More
Elegance lies in the simple things here — never too loud, never ostentatious. Strolling along these gardens, accompanied by the playful antics of bunnies scattered throughout, you get the feeling of being included in a lovely, well-kept secret. This is a place where happiness is infused with the scents of lavender and rosemary and has the same vibrant hue of those oranges shining brightly under the blue Andalusian sky.
Marbella Club
Your travel advisor can secure Internova Select perks, including a $100 resort credit as well as complimentary daily breakfast for two. $$$
Along with their ideal size and premium amenities, the ships in Holland America’s eet double as oating art galleries featuring museum-quality masterpieces. Admire the stunning Swarovski crystal globe aboard the Koningsdam. On the Rotterdam, discover a whimsical berglass otter sculpture and the radiant, illuminated crystal “Key” in the shape of a treble clef. From Zaandam’s musical décor featuring guitars signed by rock legends to Nieuw Statendam’s stunning atrium and high-de nition projections, each ship offers an experience that is both unique and visually captivating.
It takes a mastery of design but also history and pop culture to build convincing Hollywood sets like those created by Kimberly Leonard. The globetrotting designer’s most recent triumph was recreating the moody and often decadent splendor of late ’70s and early ’80s Miami and Medellín for Netflix’s multi-nominated series, Griselda . She's turned out equally convincing sets for dramas such as High Potential , The Dropout and Jane the Virgin
“The hunt is always fun,” says Leonard of her sourcing missions. But what’s even more gratifying is when those objects prove successful on-screen. Through extensive research, her own life experiences and global scavenger hunts, Leonard uncovers furniture and objects that infuse strong character details into the backdrop.
“I strive to evoke emotion and to create another character with the sets,” she says.
Designing for the screen — and obsessing over details — also led to architectural preservation. She recently completed a full period-correct restoration of a Steve Chase home that was featured in Modernism 2025, the renowned Palm Springs celebration of modernist culture, art and architecture.
How many days before a trip do you start packing? Three.
Most inspiring destination?
Everywhere. I enjoy being activated by environments. I love the reset and stimulation: colors, smells, textures, like inhaling the scent of mineral water in the desert air or eating fish tacos in Rosarito or visiting a musty flea market in Belgium. I try to bring those sensations into my work.
In-flight movie or a book?
I’m asleep as soon as we are in the air.
WRITING:
A favorite souvenir?
A scent I had made in Rome — vanilla, amber and Sicilian orange. Sadly, it's empty, and I don’t remember the name of the profumeria.
Where have you visited most? Germany. For family and for work.
First romantic getaway?
Age 21. I was traveling through Europe and had a young, fun, impromptu trip to the South of France. It was a very freeing and relaxed time in my life.
Dream vacation?
To explore more of the Caribbean. My family is from Trinidad, by way of Venezuela. To be there for Carnivale — immersed in the culture, music, food and family — is a dream.
Worst travel misfortune?
On the way to Las Vegas to see Lenny Kravitz, the car broke down. It was 106 degrees outside. We finally got a tow, and the hotel resold our rooms. But the show was worth it!
Any vacation regrets?
Not spending more time in Switzerland when I traveled through on my way to somewhere else.
Where to next?
Miami. I’ve worked on so many shows depicting Miami lately that I want to spend some time off there.
WRITING: RAMONA SAVISS
Paradise in the palm of your hand. Discover a reimagined coastal destination with beautifully redesigned rooms and suites, inspired oceanfront restaurants and bars, and more.
PLEASE CONTACT YOUR TRAVEL ADVISOR FOR MORE INFORMATION
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