POLO & Lifestyle The London Magazine

Bernard Arnault Chairman and CEO of LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton,

Polo Lifestyle

©

Karl Lagerfeld

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POLO & Lifestyle Talks

Editor’s Letter

The new year is here and I’m excited for 2023!

Another year has come and gone – and what a year it has been! Whether you have been a client or a reader for years or were new to us, I would like to personally thank you for your support.

This edition is full with interesting articles, interviews and stories!

Our cover star Bernard Arnault, Chairman and CEO, LVMH Moët Hennessy – Louis Vuitton, the world's largest luxury goods company.

We are presenting you the finer things in life. For those who love the king of sport polo and the beautiful lifestyle around it.

For our art and interior lovers we have a wonderful, inspiring interior design section where you can find ideas and inspiration for your home.

Real Estate around the world. We present you a few hand selected properties.

Our new Business category will bring you the news, stories and tips, every entrepreneur is looking for.

What our readers say

Scarlett Stilling Publisher & Editor-in-Chief

’’Enjoy this issue and get inspired’’

Contributors

Vietnam

Elena is a Russian travel blogger and freelance writer born in Asia. Having now been based in Vietnam since 2012, she has taken the opportunity to explore the region's most offbeat destinations - from Tibet and Bhutan to Cambodia and the secluded Maldivian islands. With a career switch that has taken her from nuclear physics to writing about luxury destinations, Elena's niche lies within ecofriendly hotels offering unique design and a good story. She has visited 49 counties so far and still has an extensive bucket list that will keep her going for a long time!

Follow her IG @tainteytales for more travel ideas.

Subhasish Chakraborty Travel Journalist from India

Subhasish has been working as a Travel Journalist for the past two decades and has been editorially involved with numerous international In-Flight magazines of renowned airlines like Cathy Pacific, Dragon Air, Bhutan Airlines, Air Asia, Airport Authority of India etc...

He was also involved with the UNWTO (World Tourism Organization) as a Consultant.

Contributors

USA Scotland

Sara Abbas is a multi-faceted global leader and the founder of a portfolio of brands, encompassing her innovative designer fashion label, a diversity-focused talent agency / experiential marketing hub / consultancy, and a non-profit organization, each focused on solving problems. She serves on the Forbes Council and partners with with several international organizations to help empower others and lead by example. In addition to supporting her businesses, she enjoys contributing to humanity as an author / writer, inventor, singer / songwriter, global ambassador, and luxury brand influencer. She hosts an elite mastermind for other global leaders and is assembling a hub to innovatively serve multiple charitable causes internationally through her non-profit.

Follow her on social media (@HerMajestySara on all platforms) to learn more about her other projects, philanthropic endeavors, events, and ways you can be involved.

Contributors

United Kingdom Morocco

Jackariaeh timothy Francis

“That guy with the Chanel” writer, collector, stylist & reseller specialising in luxury vintage in Paris and in London.

Rabii Benadada is a polo enthusiasts and organizer of polo tournaments in Morocco. With his long year experience in the polo field, he brings knowledge and exciting news about the sport of polo, the king of sport.

Rabii Benadada Polo player and passionate about the sport of kings

LVMH is one of only 12 companies that achieved a triple “A”, out of more than 15,000 companies scored.

CDP’s annual environmental disclosure and scoring process is widely recognized as the gold standard of corporate environmental transparency. In 2022, over 680 investors with over US$130 trillion in assets and 280 major purchasers with US$6.4 trillion in procurement spend requested companies to disclose data on environmental impacts, risks and opportunities through CDP’s platform. A recordbreaking 18,700 companies responded.

A detailed and independent methodology is used by CDP to assess these companies, allocating a score of “A” to “D-” based on the comprehensiveness of disclosure, awareness and management of environmental risks, and also demonstration of best practices associated with environmental leadership, such as setting ambitious and meaningful targets.

“LVMH is pleased to see its longstanding commitment to sustainability acknowledged by CDP with a triple “A” score in 2022. LVMH would like to share this recognition with its suppliers and scientific partners. Measuring and communicating environmental impact across the LVMH value chain on climate, water and biodiversity – including forests – have proved to be powerful tools for fostering actions. Given our deep dependency on biodiversity, LVMH is particularly committed to scaling up regenerative practices within its supply chain that bridge the preservation of biodiversity and the fight against climate change”, said Antoine Arnault, LVMH Image and Environment.

LVMH is awarded the prestigious triple “A” rating by the CDP for its leadership in terms of climate, forest and water protection

Cover Story

Bernard Arnault

© Karl Lagerfeld

Bernard Arnault is

LVMH

Hennessy

The chairman of French luxury goods giant LVMH (LVMHF), has just become the first European to top Bloomberg’s list of the world’s richest people.

Arnault has an estimated net worth of US$181.8 billion as of December 2022, according to Forbes, making him the richest person in the world.

Born to an industrial family in Roubaix, France on March 5, 1949, Mr. Arnault attended the Roubaix lycée and the Faidherbe lycée in Lille. He then went on to study at the Ecole Polytechnique.

He began his professional career that year as an engineer with the Ferret-Savinel construction company and successively was promoted to various executive management positions before becoming Chairman in 1978.

Mr. Arnault remained there until 1984, when he undertook the reorganization of the Financière Agache holding company. He returned the group to profitability as he embarked upon a strategy of developing the world’s leading luxury products company. In the process, he reinvigorated Christian Dior as the cornerstone of the new organization.

In 1989, Mr. Arnault became the majority shareholder of LVMH Moët Hennessy – Louis Vuitton, creating the world’s leading luxury products group. Mr. Arnault has been Chairman and CEO of the company since that date.

Mr. Arnault is also President of the Board of Directors of Groupe Arnault S.E. (his family holding company).

Mr. Arnault is married and has five children. He has been awarded the honorary titles of Grand Officier de la Légion d’Honneur and Commandeur des Arts et des Lettres.

Chairman and CEO of

Moët

–Louis Vuitton, the world’s leading luxury products group.

Bernard Arnault is a French businessman best known as the chairman and CEO of the French conglomerate LVMH, the largest luxury-products company in the world.

Credit: Ed Alcock/eyevine/Redux

Image: Abaka

Delphine, Bernard Arnault, Rihanna, Alexandre Arnault

LVMH CEO Bernard Arnault poses with his wife Hélène Mercier-Arnault, son Antoine Arnault and son’s partner, fashion model Natalia Vodianova

PHOTO:

1.

“I think in business you have to learn to be patient. Maybe I'm not very patient myself. But I think what I've learned the most is to wait for something and get it when the time is right."

2. “When you work around such famous brands as Dior and Vuitton, the creative minds always feel controlled. It is important that they have the freedom to develop ideas. And that doesn't distract from the actual work, but reinforces it. I consider this money as venture capital. It's not a big investment."

3.

“The money is just a by-product. I always tell my team not to worry too much about profitability. If you do your job well, profitability will come.”

Bernard Arnault’s

7 tips for success

5. “A lot of companies talk about quality, but if you want your brand to be timeless, you have to be a fanatic about it. For example, before we put a Louis Vuitton suitcase on the market, we put it in a torture machine for three weeks, where it opens and closes five times a minute. And that's not all: he's thrown, shaken and crushed. You'd laugh if you saw what we make, but that's how you build something that's meant to last forever."

6. “I often tell my team to act as if we were still a start-up. Don't go to the offices too often. Stay on site with clients or with designers while they work. I visit stores every week. I'm always looking for the directors. I want to see them on the ground, not in their offices doing paperwork."

4.“We don't like failures. We try to avoid them. That's why we make a limited number of many of our new products. We don't jeopardize the whole company by constantly introducing new products. In a year, only 15% of our business comes from new products, the rest from traditional and proven products, the classics.”

7. “Growth is not just a function of high price. You also grow as you enter new markets, e.g. B. in developing countries. But primarily growth is a function of great desire. Customers must want the product. It sure sounds easy, but getting it right is very, very difficult. It's hard to make the advert represent the actual brand. Most companies believe that conveying an image of the product through advertising is sufficient. That is not enough. It must convey the image of the brand itself. The last thing you should do is hand over the advertising to the marketing department. If you do that, you lose the closeness between the designers and the message to the market. At LVMH, advertising is done within the design team.”

POLO & Lifestyle

Photo credit: Kathrin Gralla

THE WORLD'S ONLY HIGH GOAL

TOURNAMENT

ON SNOW ESTABLISHED 1985 27–28–29 JANUARY 2023 on the frozen lake of St. Moritz

St. Moritz has played host to the world’s preeminent snow polo tournament since 1985. Besides being the first-ever snow polo tournament, the Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz is the only «high goal» polo tournament played on snow. Cradled in a gorgeous natural setting, the Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz exudes a unique atmosphere on and alongside the playing field. An exquisite gourmet food selection as well as a number of social events in St. Moritz’s first-class hotels await tournament visitors and VIPS. Welcome to St. Moritz, the home of snow polo!

Every last weekend in January, St. Moritz turns into the world capital of polo: Since 1985, when snow polo had its world premiere here, teams from around the world compete for the Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz on the frozen lake of St. Moritz. The Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz is the world’s only high-goal tournament on snow. The three days of the tournament stand for high-class polo played against the magnificent backdrop of the snowcapped mountains of the Engadin Valley and social events both on the lake and in the first-class hotels in St. Moritz.

Photo credit: Reinhardt und Sommer

Photo credit: Kathrin Gralla

Photo credit: Reinhardt und Sommer

Photo credit: WendyFld

JAN - 28 JAN

RICHARD MILLE ALULA DESERT POLO

The game of Kings is back. This high-energy tournament features four teams led by players from the legendary La Dolfina Polo team. Meanwhile, the uber-chic crowd will showcase their favourite winter looks while they cheer on the riders at this unique international event.

It’s the perfect marriage of location and sporting event. Saudi Arabia’s ancient city of AlUla will once again play host to the Richard Mille AlUla Desert Polo, the world’s only modern polo tournament to be staged in a desert, from Thursday January 26 to Saturday January 28, 2023.

Don’t miss out on the latest news on Richard Mille AlUla Desert Polo - follow @alulamoments and @experiencealula and be the first to know when tickets go on sale and more.

The Richard Mille AlUla Desert Polo 2023 is the first of ‘Sports Events’ festivals taking place in the ancient city

A high-energy weekend-long polo tournament 26 JAN - 28 JAN

Dubai

SANTONI OPENS ITS NEW BOUTIQUE IN DUBAI

AND EXPANDS IN THE MIDDLE EAST

Santoni continues its expansion process aiming at the Middle East.

With the new boutique in The Dubai Mall, Santoni takes the first step of an ambitious retail growth plan. The store reflects the concept created by Patricia Urquiola for all Santoni boutiques, an interpretation of the elegance and heritage of the maison within the retail space. The warm and captivating atmosphere enhances Santoni's men's and women's collections and prepares to welcome the new community of brand's lovers and its Italian savoir faire.

The iconic geometric brass pattern winds through space creating a perfect scenery for footwear and accessories. With its window facing the heart of the Fashion Avenue of the Mall, the elegant space of 50 square meters is divided into two adjoining environments dedicated to the male and female proposal of the creations of the Italian maison.

"It is an honor for me to be present in the prestigious Dubai Mall, strategic location and absolute protagonist of the Middle East luxury shopping scene. It's important for us to operate in this market with retail boutiques and be close to our loyal customers in the UAE and the rest of the Middle East. We have reserved to this market an important development plan that will involve physical and digital projects in the next 3 years in partnership with the Jashanmal Group."

states Giuseppe Santoni, CEO of Maison Santoni.

Norwich, UK

Breitling are continuing their UK expansion with the opening of their 18th boutique in Norwich, the first in a new partnership with Beaverbrooks. The new 61.9sqm boutique is situated in Chantry Place shopping centre and has all the hallmarks of Breitling's inclusive luxury concept. Customers will be able to browse the full range, including the iconic Navitimer and Superocean collections, alongside new collections such as the Chronomat GMT, Premier Chronograph Tourbillon and Top Time Deus.

Gavin Murphy, Breitling’s UK Managing Director says:

'We are delighted to be opening this boutique with our longstanding partners Beaverbrooks. Norwich presents our first boutique in East Anglia where we will be able to fully showcase our entire watch collections representing our Air, Land and Sea segments. We look forward to welcoming new clients into the brand where they can enjoy a casual but very special shopping experience.'

Anna Blackburn, Managing Director of Beaverbrooks, said:

'We are thrilled to be expanding our long- running and incredibly valued partnership with Breitling, and opening the doors to the first luxury Breitling boutique of its kind in East Anglia. Chantry Place is the perfect destination for the new boutique, and we are incredibly excited to be showcasing the latest luxury Breitling timepieces, just in time for people to treat their loved ones and themselves at Christmas. We’re confident the new Breitling boutique will be very popular with clients, and we look forward to continuing to provide outstanding levels of personal customer service, expertise and passion for luxury watches for our clients, both locally and further afield.'

BENTLEY EXPANDS ITS RETAIL NETWORK WITH THE APPOINTMENT OF BENTLEY

Lugano

Lugano is the largest town in the region of Ticino and Switzerland’s third most important financial centre. The new facility will include a 450 sqm showroom supported by sales, aftersales and a workshop area. Located just off the easy-to-access A2, known for being a key artery road in Switzerland, it will allow present and future owners great access to the new facilities.

Bentley Lugano is set to open in the first quarter of 2023, with the announcement coming shortly after the brand revealed its highest ever third quarter results. Operating profits more than doubled year-to-date to €575 million, while a 23.1 per cent return on sales was the highest recorded in Bentley history.

Bentley sales were up 18 per cent in Europe for the first nine months of 2022, to 2,133 luxury cars. The company is anticipating a strong end to the year, thanks to the introduction of the Bentayga Extended Wheelbase (EWB) model, the new luxury flagship SUV with a focus on wellness and the best rear cabin experience since the Mulsanne.

Lifestyle News

The appointment of Bentley Lugano comes at an important moment in Bentley’s history. We have seen record profits and sustained growth in most markets since 2020 and continue to evolve. The opening of a new showroom supports Bentley’s industry-leading Beyond100 strategy, as the company looks towards an electrified future in one of our key market, Switzerland.”

“

Balazs Rooz, Regional Director of Bentley Europe, added:

FASHION

CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN

Brunello Cucinelli

Volume, coziness and radiance are the key words to describe this cashmere Feather yarn cardigan. The cashmere Feather yarn’s comfortable appearance is paired with the season’s Swarovski® Crest detail that adds a radiant sparkle to the entire piece: the embellishment is made on a tulle base with a mohair and wool yarn embroidery, and the addition of a lamé thread with metallic reflections.

WHEN ART MEETS EMIRATI PERFUMERY, “AHOJAS” BY HIND AL OUD.

Renowned Emirati Perfumery, Hind Al Oud to curate a special perfume “Ahojas”

A dream that turned into reality, that is how the inception of the Mohamed Hilal Group was manifested. A vision to epitomize emotion regardless of the industry is the drive behind the Emirati group.

Hind Al Oud started the emotional journey of Mohamed Hilal Group over 20 years ago, with the ambition to create exclusive scents for every emotion using the most exquisite perfumery ingredients. The luxury Emirati house took off and led the group to expand with additional brands such as Anfasic Dokhoon and Khaltat.

Ahojas, is the moment when our creative mind is in full ebullition and almost reaching its epitome. Ideas, words, muses are activating your creativity and leading to THINK, FEEL, CREATE.

THINK, FEEL, CREATE – your Art lasts forever will be the sentiment that the visitors of Abu Dhabi Art Week will discover and experience.

Ahojas is a fragrance that aims to send your mind wandering into new depths of emotion, never known possible, a true reflection of your personal purpose.

‘With Ahojas, we have created something truly unique like nothing we have previously created. The collection has great depth with Ahojas trio a gift collection including Ahojas perfume, Ahojas Pil and Ahojas Oud Muattar of fragrances, all unique in their own way, resonating with every human on a different perspective.

-Mohammed Hilal, Founder of Hind Al Oud

Beyond the notes of tobacco, fig and honey, guests will embark on an experiential journey to name their emotion in an artistic set up and attempt to avail a pleasant surprise from the brand.

For art and perfumes lovers, Abu Dhabi Art Week will be an ideal ambience to bask in the artistic expression of artists from across the world and indulges their senses to be transported to another space that will encourage them to THINK-FEEL-CREATE!

Born from a passion for and obsession with perfumery, Hind Al Oud is a unique luxury brand offering the richest quality of perfumes and oils presented in a modern elegant image. Iconography expresses every individual’s identity. Offering a collection of engaging perfumes for every man and woman who knows what they want and have always striven to achieve their goals.

The Men’s wardrobe

www.bottegadalmut.com

Bottega Dalmut Hopsack blazer, one of the most classic garment for every season.

Breitling

Double-breasted characterized by peak lapels and four-button placket in zamak. Details such as the welt flap pockets recall a look suitable for any occasion.

Men’s Polished Green Leather Chelsea Boot

This Chelsea boot interprets Santoni’s rich artisanal tradition and continuous quest for quality and everyday comfort.

Santoni

Shop Now

Polished Burgundy Leather Medium Weekend Bag Shop Now

This weekend bag is an emblem of Santoni elegance, marking every trip with unmistakable style.

A style favored for its unparalleled

The world of art, which has always been a great source of inspiration for Missoni, deeply influ- enced the brand’s men’s collection for the Fall / Winter 2022 season. Focused on neutral and timeless shades of gray and blue, combined with vibrant touches of bright tones, such as red, yellow, orange and green, the collection offers a realistic wardrobe designed for men with a dynamic lifestyle, who cannot renounce elegance and comfort.

Missoni

JEWELLERY & WATCHES

Keeping time on the world of fine jewellery and luxury watches, from interviews to the most wanted exclusive timepieces and jewellery

Photocredit: Garrard

Vacheron Constantin

Vacheron Constantin are launching a limited edition Traditionnelle Tourbillon model using artistic crafts which play tribute to Chinese mythology. At the heart of a finely engraved 18k 5N pink gold case, the Chinese legend of the Phoenix and the Dragon take shape in the form of the sculpted appliques on a hand-guilloché dial. Available in three dial colours, each in a numbered 16-piece limited edition.

The Chinese legend of the Phoenix and the Dragon is graphically enacted on the dial of this new limited edition Traditionnelle tourbillon watch. At the heart of a finely engraved 18K 5N pink gold case, the legendary creatures take shape in the form of sculpted appliques on a hand-guilloché dial. The tourbillon is that of the ultra-thin Calibre 2160, an in-house movement equipped with a peripheral rotor.

To honour the Chinese legend of the Phoenix and the Dragon, Vacheron Constantin presents three numbered limited-edition Traditionnelle tourbillon watches. The two fabulous animals are depicted in a traditional manner, beautifully choreographed in their dance around the pearl. Legendary creatures from Chinese mythology, the Phoenix and the Dragon symbolise strength and grace: a perfect complementarity that procures peace and happiness. On the dial of the three models, the Phoenix and the Dragon come to life in the form of pink gold appliques sculpted on a hand-guilloché dial. The galvanic dial treatment in black, deep blue and silver tones distinguishes the three versions of the model, each issued in a 16-piece limited edition. The 41 mm-diameter case in 18K 5N pink gold is engraved with cloud-like volutes on the bezel and lugs, which form a bas-relief motif on the case middle. In-house self-winding Calibre 2160 with tourbillon was chosen to enliven this mythological scene. Measuring just 5.65 mm thick thanks to its peripheral rotor ensuring an 80-hour power reserve, this ultra-thin movement with 188 components has made it possible to offer an elegant case with a sapphire back providing a view of the finishing details.

Andre Marcha

One of a kind Stallion Brooch featuring a baroque Biwako pearl, set with brown and white diamond on 18K yellow gold. From the Animalis Collection. www.andremarcha.com

BUCCELLATI

Buccellati introduces the new Macri Color collection, a natural evolution of a design of unparalleled beauty and synonymous with Italian quality and excellence. Characterized by stones with a mysterious charm and bright colors, this collection represents the perfect combination of technique and aesthetics.

www.buccellati.com

One of the most dynamic brands on the market, Franck Muller is now entering the High Jewellery sector, completing its highend watchmaking offer.

Always striving for excellence, the Master of Complications capitalises on its expertise in diamond setting and its creativity, to achieve a leading position in this market.

A complementary positioning to its current offer, which demonstrates all the audacity of its inventiveness and its perfectly mastered know-how, to offer jewellery collections in line with the DNA of the House.

The jewellery collections

Franck Muller offers unique pieces of jewellery using the charismatic shapes of the watch collections, such as the famous Cintrée CurvexTM shape, or the emblematic numbers that adorn the dials.

It proudly presents timeless collections dedicated to women, highlighting the bold character of the House.

Combining gold with diamonds and enamel, it features a wide range of exceptional bracelets, necklaces, pendants, rings and earrings, which perfectly complement the different timepiece collections, for feminine and glamorous compositions.

The e-commerce site

The manufacture is taking this launch opportunity to showcase its collections on its first e- commerce site, dedicated to jewellery.

The online store has been designed to provide a luxurious experience with navigation and features that allow customers to easily explore all the fine jewellery collections. It also offers the opportunity for home or instores delivery.

The House of Franck Muller

Founded in 1991 by the master watchmaker Franck Muller and Haute Horlogerie specialist Vartan Simarkes, Franck Muller House is one of the most acclaimed independent watch companies in contemporary watchmaking.

An award-winning brand, Franck Muller is known for its highly exclusive technical complications, which are proprietary innovations, produced in-house within its Manufacture in Genthod, Geneva.

From the Revolution 3, the first triple axis Tourbillon, to the most complicated wristwatch in the world, the AeternitasTM Mega 4, Franck Muller created exceptional timepieces that left his hallmark in the story of Swiss watchmaking forever.

With more than 50 world premieres and patents, Franck Muller has been dazzling the world with creations that have been received with great enthusiasm by watch connoisseurs and celebrities all over the world. Franck Muller creations represent major technical advances in the history of Haute Horlogerie.

INTERIOR DESIGN

The art of French living

Fabrice Juan designs interiors that exemplify luxury in its purest form - comfort, attention to detail, the interplay of volume and light - transforming each residential project into an ultra- elegant showcase.

He also creates furniture with a timeless aesthetic. Some pieces have already become iconic, such as the Saint-Germain sofa.

Fabrice Juan founded his agency in 2011 after working as JeanLouis Deniot’s project manager. He has a dual education in woodworking and interior design. An ardent defender of the French art of living, he is inspired by the principles of classical architecture and is passionate about exquisite materials, madeto-measure work and privileges collaboration with exceptional craftsmen, in the manner of the great designers of the 1930s and 1940s.

Fabrice Juan designs interiors that exemplify luxury in its purest form - comfort, attention to detail, the interplay of volume and light - transforming each residential project into an ultra- elegant showcase. The designer allows his creativity to run free beginning with the initial sketches. The layout and furnishings quickly become apparent in his mind. He enjoys working with

Saint-Germain sofa

Saint-Germain chair

table - with its angular overlapping of American walnut and Calacatta marble - or the Sunray sideboard in glossy lacquer, brass and matt wood veneer.

Fabrice Juan creates furniture with a timeless aesthetic. Some pieces have already become iconic in their own right, such as the Saint-Germain bench and the Capsule armchair. Firmly rooted in his own era while admiring such singular designers as JeanMichel Frank and Gio Ponti, Fabrice Juan masterfully combines both classic and contemporary styles.

Among Fabrice Juan’s most recent projects are several private residences in France and abroad, as well as two fabric collections with the houses Métaphores and Lelièvre. He will soon renew his collaboration with Lelièvre with the launch of a new furniture line.

POLO & Lifestyle

FINEST ART

The Moguls were then responsible for taking the game from Persia tot he East, where it became known as “the sport of kings“.

Polo is taken from the word ’pholo’ meaning ’ball’ or ’ballgame’ in the Balti language of Tibet.

By the 16th century polo was well established in India in Mainpur, the English Army Officers discovered the game. They went on to found the world’s first polo club.

Today, more than 77 countries across the world play polo. It was an Olympic sport from 1900-1939.

Polo continues to represent the pinnacle of sport. This is a feeling epitomised by the famous verse inscribed on a stone tablet next to a polo ground in Gilgit, Pakistan:

Let others play at other things. ’’The king of sports is still the sport of kings.’’

“Inspired by the polo matches and horses. Our goal was to capture the spirit of the polo ponies.

Scarlett Stilling

Finest Art Gallery is a part of POLO & Lifestyle The London Magazine

by Scarlett Stilling

POLO & Lifestyle FINEST ART

P & L

FINEST

ART Photography art pieces are limited editions. Printed on high quality fine art paper. Every piece is signed and numbered. To the art piece comes a certificate of authenticity.

Available in different sizes. How to order: Send us an email to art@poloandlifestylemagazine.com

POLO & Lifestyle FINEST ART

STYLE YOUR HOME

Discover a world of exclusive interiors and remarkable handmade furniture pieces.

MARBERA

MARBERA is an interior design brand based in Paris, France and crafted in Italy.

All pieces of furniture and design items are made from marble and onyx slabs picked for their beauty and rarity, and are specially crafted to be functional and delicate. The design and material are unique to each creation.

If you want to create your own MARBERA piece, you are selecting the type of stone, choosing the finish, design, and cut the final piece, the design team is working with you every step of the way to transform your idea for marble furniture into a reality.

Glazy Stool’s circular seat is supported by three rounded legs, one of which playfully intersects it. With a vibrant & cheeky persona, Glazy Stool offers an easy-peasy transition to a vivacious room.

royalstranger.com

Baccarat

Royal Stranger

SIEGER BY FÜRSTENBERG

PARAÍSO, the decor from SIEGER by FÜRSTENBERG, is like a journey to a place you long to visit – a homage to the beauty of the earth, the richness of nature and the diversity of cultures.

Photography: The Bardos with @agence_et_nous

TRAVEL

St. Moritz

Chic, elegant and exclusive with a cosmopolitan ambiance, St. Moritz is one of the most famous resorts in the world. For more than a century, St. Moritz, with its spectacular scenery and fine weather, has been the playground of the rich and famous. St. Moritz has continued to stay a world class resort that attracts winter sport fans from all around the world. Surrounded by Alps peaks towering 3,000 meters or more, the town of St. Moritz has a population of 5,000 and is one of

Located in the Engadin Valley in Switzerland, the small town of St. Moritz is one of the most famous luxury Alpine resort towns. Home of gorgeous lofty mountains, broad and green valleys, placid and glassy

a high standard and an unrivalled largesse. tschuggencollection.ch

Grand Hotel des Bains Kempinski St. Moritz

Set in an iconic 19th-century building, this elegant hotel offers timeless European Luxury at the foot of the St. Moritz Cable Car with unrivalled access to skiing and hiking trails.

For more than 125 years, Kempinski has been welcoming guests to spectacular destinations in the most stunning style. Together we’ve explored the world and discovered new places, possibilities and horizons. The very epitome of luxury, our brand is passionate about creating and crafting rich, meaningful and memorable experiences for every guest.

www.kempinski.com

Hotel

WHERE GENERATIONS HAVE MET SINCE 1896

Experience legendary service in the heart of St. Moritz: joie de vivre and unrivaled wellbeing in an iconic Hotel. Summer or winter, the choice is yours!

The Golden Age of stylish travel never lost its sparkle in Badrutt’s Palace Hotel and always remains right up to date here.

High in the mountains, wellbeing lies naturally in the air and at Palace Wellness luxurious pampering moments are lined up like a string of precious pearls. Discover the indoor infinity pool with its grandiose backdrop or go with the flow – out into the heated outdoor pool.

badruttspalace.com

Badrutt's Palace

New Luxury Travel Show Wanderluxe on LUXE.TV

Exclusive Interview with Cleo Anderson

It was a pleasure talking with Cleo Anderson about her New Luxury Travel Show Wanderluxe on LUXE.TV

The new series will broadcast to its 462 million subscribers. Each episode will feature a new destination and follow Cleo as she presents dazzling luxury stays and her tips for an out-of-thisworld luxury itinerary. The first episode of Wanderluxe is set in Greece’s historical capital city: Athens.

Tell us how you started your career, how was your beginning?

My foray into the PR world was somewhat of an accident, really – I landed an interview for a PR position with the owner of a small PR agency in Bel Air, California. I was offered that job on the spot and learned the ropes in terms of how to secure media coverage and run a PR agency over a very short period of time; just three months. By that time, I had figured out that I could run something similar of my own and I launched my agency not long after, with my mentor’s blessing (she was very sweet and let me have her rolodex for the U.S.). She was an amazing woman, and we are still friends to this day. I started working with clients within the lifestyle space – I was signing cosmetic surgeons, fashion labels and beauty brands – and I gradually moved into the luxury travel space once I had built up my team. Monte Carlo SBM was one of the first prominent luxury resorts we worked with, and things snowballed from there. Now we have worked with hotels and luxury brands all around the world, and I have travelled the globe experiencing all kinds of hotels and resorts as a result.

I have developed and also co-produce a brand-new luxury travel show with LUXE.TV called Wanderluxe with Cleo Anderson. The premise of the show is exciting – I scour the globe for wonderful destinations and find two or three ways to enjoy luxury stays within that locale. I intentionally focus on finding hotels, dwellings and resorts that are very different from each other so that the viewer really gets a sense of variety and what’s available in the area. The first episode of Wanderluxe is set in Athens, Greece – one of my favourite European cities. We shoot scenes at a penthouse loft with stunning Acropolis views, at a luxury resort on the Athenian Riviera, and on a sailing yacht in the Aegean Sea. All are very different, but each unique and wonderful in its own way.

Go, see, do.

Cleo Anderson’s motto

With LUXE.TV you have an exciting new series coming, tell us about it?

How came the idea for this series?

The way the series came about was very organic – I was approached by LUXE.TV regarding client collaborations as we work with a number of luxury brands who are an excellent fit for the channel. During that initial conversation, I just happened to mention that I had always wanted to host my own travel show; it was a completely off the cuff remark that was picked up and discussed more as time went on, and we finally came up with a final concept, a location for episode one, and shoot dates. Looking back, it was an amazing development and just goes to show that sometimes, it’s good to say your goals out loud. The LUXE.TV team has been amazing to work with.

How travel Influences your life?

Both of my jobs now centre around travel, so travel influences my life greatly! There are lots of places that I have not yet seen, so I’m always excited to see and experience new places from a cultural perspective, a foodie’s perspective (I love food), from an art and design perspective, and more. There are also places that I love to go back to time and time again, like Greece, Paris and Morocco. But increasingly, I push to see the new places that I have yet to see – mainly, I’m looking to soak up the atmosphere and interact with the locals. Working with a brand-new hotel or planning a future episode for the show means that I’m always thrilled to take the road less travelled. South America is definitely on my list for the future, and so is Canada.

Where can we watch your new travel series?

What are some of your top travel destinations and why?

Morocco is a firm favourite of mine as it feels like being in a distant land far, far away with a vibe and a ‘feeling’ that you can’t really describe – the food is some of my favourite food (heaven is a freshly prepared tagine with soft, warm bread). I have visited Marrakech enough times for it to feel like a home from home, and more recently went glamping in the desert, which was phenomenal. I absolutely loved Japan – I visited for the first time with my youngest sister and we covered most of Tokyo (so vibrant and forward-thinking) then we ventured out to Kyoto, which was just magical. I love Vietnam for the street food, The Philippines for the clear turquoise waters and natural habitat, and London and New York for the copious things available to you in both cities. Cappadocia, Turkey was also unique. Honestly, there are really too many places to mention.

Wanderluxe with Cleo Anderson will be available on LUXE.TV – for those who currently subscribe it is coming soon, and for those who don’t you can refer to the website Luxe.tv for more information on how to subscribe…

“At LUXE.TV we strive to bring our audiences the best in luxury and luxury lifestyle programming. In addition to our regular news reports from the sector, we are thrilled to introduce this original travel series featuring the charismatic Cleo Anderson. Cleo’s years of experience in luxury travel and her PR know-how make her the perfect host for this new co-production.”

Iva Agüero, the Chief Development Officer from LUXE.TV

MALDIVES

If anything deserves to be called “a postcard destination”, it has to be the Maldives. Picture those islets of white sand topped by tropical palms, strung like pearl necklaces onto dreamy atolls, seemingly afloat on the turquoise ocean.

MALDIVES

MALDIVES

There are a few places on the planet with dazzling electricblue waters and dreamy powdered sugar beaches, but it is hard to imagine any destination topping the natural splendour of the Maldives. Hidden away in the vastness of the Indian Ocean, halfway between Indonesia and East Africa, the world's lowest-lying nation is an astonishing constellation of picture-perfect lagoons, sandbars and 26 atolls spanning nearly 1,200 tropical islands.

Whether it be a solo beach holiday, romantic honeymoon or family trip, jetting off to the faraway Maldives is just the ticket for those seeking the ultimate in rest and relaxation. As your plane parts the clouds, revealing the emerald islands waiting below, get ready for a pure escapist experience in the most stunning of settings.

Upon arrival at the Male International Airport, you will be greeted by a Pullman representative and escorted to the domestic terminal for a scenic 55-minute flight to Kooddoo Airport, followed by a thrilling 15-minute boat ride straight to your destination. A venture of 230 miles south of the capital will bring you to one of the most far-flung resorts in the country, the hip and trendy Pullman Maldives Maamutaa. This delicious slice of heaven ticks all the boxes for travellers craving effortless luxury with a dash of fun. Nestled within the tranquil waters of the Gaafu Alifu Atoll, the hotel boasts 122 sumptuously appointed villas strung across an 18-hectare pristine island, catered by a host of restaurants and bars and complete with an overwater spa and even a natural lake!

Conceptualized by French interior designer Isabelle Miaja, the creative force behind numerous five-star projects in the region, Pullman Maldives Maammutaa blends a reverence to local culture with contemporary flair. Modern urban-style villas with thatched roofs, that recall the traditional Maldivian striped sarong, reflect the concept of cultural fusion that is at the core of Pullman’s DNA. Juxtaposed against the majestic ocean, the resort encompasses a dazzling line up of overwater and beachside villas, each with its own personality and appeal, but it is the mesmerizing Aqua Villas that steal the show! Set across two levels, these stunning residences promise a truly immersive encounter with the hypnotic marine life, allowing their guests to be one with the Indian Ocean. For a once-ina-life experience, make your way down the spiral staircase to your private underwater aquarium. Just imagine admiring an endless tropical reef from the comfort of your bed - Neptune himself never had it so good! At 1,216 square feet, each Aqua Villa features two bedrooms, a living room, a spacious bathroom and a terrace with a private pool. As a contrast to the lower floor, the main level is decorated with a brighter palette, including white-painted walls, lofty wooden beam ceilings and added splashes of colour that reflect the azure surroundings.

Pullman Maldives Maamutaa

For a grander, more private stay, the four-bedroom Ocean Pool Retreat, designed to comfortably accommodate up to 10 guests, is an ideal abode for extended families and groups of friends who appreciate the very finest that life has to offer. Spread over 4,835 square feet, it comes with separate living and dining pavilions flaunting a fully equipped kitchen, indoor fitness area, spa room with hammam and an ample sun-drenched deck with a jacuzzi and private swimming pool. Watch a daily parade of kaleidoscopic schools of fish, magnificent stingrays, giant turtles, and harmless baby reef sharks without even getting your feet wet and, when night falls, the sundeck will double up as an excellent vantage point for stargazing - the skies are phenomenal there!

Luxurious accommodations surrounded by sand beaches and crystal-clear lagoons are even better with a no-hassle allinclusive package, one of the most generous in the Maldives. Taste and toast your way around the resort with a curated collection of dining experiences seamlessly orchestrated by Executive Chef Nyoman. No matter what kind of connoisseur you are, let the voyage begin!

A peaceful morning scene you picture for your dream vacation starts at the poolside Melange, the all-day dining restaurant that promises its guests a multisensory gastronomic escapade from dawn till dusk. Enjoy a fantastic buffet spread of international cuisines with six live cooking stations where meals are prepared a la minute.

To regain energy between adventures, treat yourself to lunch at Souq Oven, a stylish fine dining restaurant set against a backdrop of glistening ocean. Enthralling diners with elegant presentations, the menu puts the spotlight on fresh seafood and premium cuts while also featuring an array of traditional Italian recipes. Taking the all-inclusive concept to an entirely new level, Souq Oven is home to over 80 handpicked labels of wine courtesy of Vinoteca by Pullman. Should you need a recommendation, a resident sommelier be happy to find a perfect pairing for your choice of meal.

In the evening, delight in the variety of flavours at Phat Chameleon, an interactive garden-to-fork dining venue where guests get to harvest the ingredients for their plant-based meals. Set in the resort’s organic garden, the restaurant helps to forge a deeper connection to the land while serving innovative creations for vegetarians, vegans and the culinary curious. The richness of this setting only lends to those secluded vibes as tables are filled with gourmet plates created to challenge and expand your taste palette. Smoked coco bean veloute or homemade tofu wrapped in banana leaves, at Phat Chameleon things can be as simple or complex as you want them to be.

Lounging in the overwater netting with comfy pillows can be an amazing way to spend a vacation! Saffron Affair creates one of the best spots to surrender to the miraculous sunset shades while enjoying the premium cocktail and wine selection, accompanied by locally inspired bites. For something more casual, opt for healthy snacks and freshly brewed coffee at Sol Rising, a laid-back bar which also serves as an alternative breakfast venue catering for sunrise lovers, or toast your fortunes at the Hub featuring a vast range of handcrafted cocktails both on and off the menu. For those on the go, there is also the playful Bites on Wheels, a pop-up food cart delivering refreshing sorbets, lights snacks and tropical fruits wherever needed.

collaboration between Pullman and Phytomer, a high-end skincare brand originating from France, it offers a variety of wellness rituals based on the preventative principles of the Eastern medicinal approach and more functional, results-centric Western influences. Imbued with traditional Maldivian charm, the spa hosts 8 private pavilions spread over a pristine lagoon, each opening up to an ocean panorama with nothing but blue in sight. To elevate your holiday experience up to the next level, create your own version of bliss by choosing from a carefully calibrated menu of restorative body treatments, massages, facials, couple’s rituals, beautifying and multi-day wellness packages.

Craving something a little more active? A top-tier fitness program is just one of the things that puts Pullman Maldives Maamutaa in a league of its own. There is a lot more to the resort’s facilities than standard cardio and strength training equipment, a yoga platform and a swimming pool. Going above and beyond to put wellness at the forefront of your travel experience, it offers an impressive mix of fitness classes including pilates, aerial and floating yoga, pool and beachside Zumba, and body combat. But this is just the beginning! Try the exclusive bootcamp-style beach workout “Raaveriya” which translates as “a man collecting toddy from a palm tree”. Developed in collaboration with the brand’s wellness ambassador Sarah Hoey, the workout combines the high-energy, frenetic moves of traditional Maldivian dance “Boduberu” with the humble daily routine of a coconut picker. An invigorating beach run, then a refreshing swim in the lagoon followed by a hearty swig of “toddy” concludes this unique foray into the local culture. For a complete immersion in the island’s serene landscapes, join Fit Trail, a daily guided jogging class that will take you through 5 state-of-the-art fitness stations devised to put your agility to a test.

entertaining hubs, Playground and Skillz, designed to stimulate and excite their inquisitive minds with a wealth of fun and educational activities from treasure hunts and nature walks to board games and crafts. And who says kids can’t enjoy the lap of luxury too? With dedicated spa treatments, restorative meditation sessions and fun yoga classes, young explorers also have a chance to dip their toes into the world of wellness as a solo experience or a shared moment with parents.

Mercure Maldives Kooddoo

Nothing facilitates romance like an adult-only resort set on a remote island. One of a few places in the world where you feel away from everything but still have it all, Mercure Maldives Kooddoo is what luxury all-inclusive dreams are made of.

With only 69 villas, sprawling over water or scattered along the white sandy beach, the resort exudes a contemporary feel with an added cozy touch. Encapsulating the Maldivian heritage at the heart of design, the interiors showcase local sustainable materials and colourful indigenous fabrics while offering all the modern-day amenities and creature comforts of true indulgence.

Cocooned by flourishing foliage, each Beach Villa offers generous indoor-outdoor living space and a warm ambiance to live out your Maldives adventure. Relax into island life by soaking up the sunshine on the patio or take a plunge into your private pool secluded by lush palms. If being lulled to sleep by the sound of waves lapping beneath your bed tickles your fancy, upgrade your stay to a splurge-worthy Overwater Sunset Villa. Catch a glimpse of the colourful aquatic life through the illuminated glass panel embedded in the floor or, better yet, claim a front row seat to nature’s most spectacular show and admire unobstructed sunset views from your private deck.

Journey through an unparalleled culinary affair ranging from casual simplicity to fine gastronomy at 3 different dining venues, each with its own unique influence. Alita, the resort’s signature buffetstyle restaurant, is a melting pot of cuisines alive with flavour from dawn to dusk. After energizing your morning with a bountiful breakfast spread, Executive Chef Kapila Rosan spices things up with rotating themed nights. Open for lunch and dinner, an overwater a la carte Vista serves up unpretentious homemade dishes, inspired by authentic Italian cooking and paired with over 40 labels of lovingly chosen wine. Few places take their sundowners as seriously as Mercure Maldives Kooddoo. Toast your fortunes with an artfully blended cocktail or perhaps a rum-infused iced lolly at the resort’s pool bar set against panoramic ocean views.

holiday in the Maldives is complete without a romantic dining experience. Whether it is your birthday, anniversary, honeymoon, or you just want to celebrate being on vacation in paradise, you are in for a treat. Imagine waking up in your villa and finding a ritzy tray, jam-packed with fine and spectacular breakfast delicacies, drifting in wait in your private pool. The decadent optics of grazing on fruit and croissants while floating around in your swimwear is simply too tempting to miss! If you are not a morning person, soak up the soothing sounds of the Indian Ocean as you enjoy a flawless private dinner service beneath a brilliant canopy of stars. Be it a lobster and champagne extravaganza or traditional Maldivian offerings, each menu can be tailored to suit your taste.

Wrapped in the lush embrace of jungle, Suvadiva Spa comes with 6 private treatment rooms, both indoors and outdoors, where bespoke indulgence is delivered by a team of attentive and knowledgeable wellbeing experts. Discover perfect balance as you surrender to a signature 2-hour pampering that combines coconut scrub, body massage and hair treatment or experience the literal sweet relaxation of the Chocolate Lovers package which includes cocoa and rice exfoliation, clay and chocolate mask and a full body massage followed by a bathing ritual for two.

With only a short boat ride between Pullman Maldives Maamutaa and Mercure Maldives Kooddoo, you can easily extend your holiday by combining these two fabulous sister properties into one memorable trip. Whether you are a serenity seeker or an avid explorer, both resorts offer a myriad of complementary activities along with unparalleled access to marine experiences and exhilarating water sports. Do as much or as little as you like - turn off your phone and take in the inspiring surroundings with a cocktail in hand or don a mask and discover the untamed beauty of nearby coral reefs. From dolphin cruises and kayaking to jet skiing, guided snorkelling and scuba diving tours, the Gaafu Alifu Atoll invites you on an extraordinary adventure that will spark your wanderlust and fill your soul with excitement.

Written by our contributor Elena Taintey, a Russian luxury traveler based in Asia. For more stories visit her IG @tainteytales

By Laura Pearson

The Pan Pacific London is one of London’s newest luxury hotels and they haven’t entered the arena shyly. Since opening in Spring 2021, this impressive 43-storey skyscraper is already a landmark property in the city. The building was designed by PLP Architecture, who wanted to create a sustainable, 24-hour destination to meet, live, work and explore. Right in the heart of the financial City of London square mile, the Pan Pacific London is a space that’s perfect for the business community during the week, and those who want to play and relax at the weekends.

There are 237 rooms and 160 apartments within the Pan Pacific London. Interior design is by Yabu Pushelberg – a firm that’s already involved in many of London’s existing desirable addresses. They wanted to create environments, in the Pan Pacific London, that will make people have a sensory experience. So textures are rich, and design motifs and colours are subtle in tone and delicate. Working mainly around a cream and pastel moodboard, spaces are connected in tone and style, yet also unique.

As well as being a place to say, the Pan Pacific London also has an entire floor dedicated to wellness, with a breathtaking 18-metre infinity pool from which you can watch the bustle of the City of London as you float. The hotel is also home to the The Pacific Ballroom – the largest events space in the square mile; making it a covetable wedding location.

The concept for the Pan Pacific London was to create a hotel that’s modelled on its sister property, the Pan Pacific Singapore. The definitive luxury of oriental service has carried itself over well. Like the Pan Pacific Singapore, the Pan Pacific London prides itself on the non-obtrusive, gentle service of its sister. Staff move almost invisibly to give you everything you could ask for before you even realise you need it. From the moment you step inside the lobby doors, you will immediately exhale as staff remove all the pressures of the outside world.

Whilst the 5-star service is quiet, the food is anything but. From its patisserie, to its afternoon tea and restaurant, the food is expressive, theatrical and decadent. Working with Cherish Finden, a judge on Channel 4’s Bake Off: The Professionals, is recognised as one of the top pastry chefs in the world. Bringing a slice of Singapore to guests, her creations are beautiful and intriguing in terms of texture, flavour and presentation. She has her own patisserie shop at the hotel, has created the oriental afternoon tea, and has put together some of the desserts in the a la carte menu of the restaurant.

Image: @bei.bei.ei

The Pan Pacific London is the epitome of modern 5-star luxury, mixed with Singaporean tradition. From Diptyque toiletries and Dyson hairdryers in the Italian marble bathrooms, to staff that remember your name and tend to your every need with the restraint of Singaporean culture. It’s the ultimate staycation, as it transports you to another world.

By Laura Pearson

Authentic Sailing Trips With Star Clippers

If the high seas are calling your name, and the idea of island hopping with a difference is appealing, a cruise vacation with Star Clippers might well be the answer to your prayers. Designed for those with a passion for sailing and an appreciation of tall ships, Star Clippers cruises allow you to get hands on and appreciate the majesty of being carried by the wind across the ocean.

Star Clipper cruises vary from touring the Caribbean, to Greek Island hopping. All include the opportunity to watch a small crew up close as they operate a traditional tall ship. You can help hoist the sails, join the captain on the bridge and ask questions, learn about rope tying, and climb the mast to the Crow’s Nest. What you are paying for with a Star Clippers cruise, is that first-hand experience of the operation of a tall ship.

Yes, there is amazing food, comfortable surroundings and the fact that you don’t have to actually put in any work; but It’s important to understand that a Star Clippers cruise is more of raw sailing experience than it is a luxury cruise. Tall ships have certain limitations in terms of luxury – cabins are small and basic; the showers are unbearably small and awkward to use, and the décor is as you would expect from an older sailing vessel – signs of wear and tear slightly garish patterns. However, if sailing and tall ships are a passion of yours, this is as authentic an experience as you will get.

The food is absolutely divine on-board and this is a real asset with Star Clippers. If you are prepared to accept that the ship itself won’t be as luxurious as you might be used to, you are in for a real culinary treat on these ships. Breakfast and lunch is served in the dining room in the form of a buffet. The selection is vast and full of hot meal options, fresh salads, fresh fish and seafood, beautiful desserts, freshly baked bread and carvery meats. Seating for breakfast and lunch is as you please. At dinner, an a la carte menu is offered where you can choose from 3-4 options per course. Everything is fresh, beautifully presented and full of flavour. Seating at dinner is very much communal, with each table seating around 8 people. Your server will suggest a table for you to join, based on languages spoken.

A Star Clippers cruise is a very social experience. It’s impossible to avoid spending time with others and eating with others. If you tire easily from social interactions and constant conversation, this is not a vacation for you. The average age of those on a Star Clippers cruise is probably around 60. Young people, who are usually more accustomed to privacy and couples dining, aren’t often seen on board. Dinner service also takes a good couple of hours, so you’re in for the long haul with your dining companions. The social element of these cruises can be a real highlight or a real hell, depending on your personality. It’s definitely a great vacation for solo travellers, as

Being a smaller ship than traditional cruise ship vessels, the Star Clippers ships are able to get much closer to ports and access lots of smaller islands than these huge ships can. Most of the time the Star Clippers ships will sit just out at sea from a port and access to the harbourside is by tender boats that run every 15 minutes. It’s a very quick and convenient way to visit the places on your itinerary and when the tender drops you off, you are (90% of the time) right in the heart of the action. It’s very simple to just hop off-board for an hour if you just want to pay a quick visit somewhere. If you want to stay on-board, the bar, scheduled deck activities and afternoon snacks will keep you occupied.

Star Clippers cruises are a very unique vacation option for sailing enthusiasts and there are so many fascinating itineraries on offer to choose from, right across the entire world. The crews are small and incredibly friendly, so you will get such a personalised experience and be able to explore the elements of tall ship sailing that interest you.

Discover available Star Clippers cruises at starclippers.co.uk

How you can make sure valuable assets remain in your family and not with HMRC

Text by Jonathan Morris, specialist broker at John Lamb Hill Oldridge

If you have significant assets, it is likely that you will want to pass these on to your family at some point. In recent years, the UK tax authorities have been taking an increasing share of this intergenerational wealth. The latest figures from HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) show that between April 2022 and October 2022, estates paid £4.1 billion in Inheritance Tax (IHT), £500 million higher than in the same period a year earlier. The chancellor’s recent decision to freeze the threshold at which IHT is payable until 2028, is also likely to result in more individuals paying tax. One method you can use to ensure you pass on your wealth without losing 40% in IHT is to make lifetime gifts. If your own parents have yet to consider transferring their wealth, this is also something you may want to discuss with them.

The rules surrounding IHT are complex, for example, if a donor dies within seven years of making a gift, there could still be a significant tax liability on that gift.

You may have to sell family assets to pay an Inheritance Tax bill.

Imagine a scenario where you, or your parents want to pass on a valuable gift. Not only does this reduce the value of an individual’s estate as part of a longer-term tax planning strategy, but it also gives the donor the opportunity to see the benefit the gift gives in their lifetime. The gift could be a property, a piece of artwork or another family heirloom. If the donor were to die within seven years of making the gift, IHT of up to 40% could still be payable on the value of the gift.

If the gift is made in cash, it can be more straightforward to set aside a portion of the cash for seven years in case of any tax bill. However, this is not always as simple as it seems, as often the beneficiary would like to use the entire sum as down payment on a property.

Equally, if a chattel is gifted and the donor dies, your only option could be to sell the asset itself to find the capital to pay the IHT. Consequently, in the seven-year period after making a gift it is vital that enough liquid assets are kept to cover a tax liability should it arise. One simple way to do this is to procure cost-effective life insurance which would cover the potential liability. This ensures that the recipient of the gift isn’t forced to retain 40% of the cash gift or forced to sell the chattel in order to pay an IHT bill if it falls due.

The insurance mirrors the IHT liability on a gift and is designed to ensure that the bill can be paid, enabling the entire value of the gift to pass to the intended beneficiary with no strings attached. In the event the donor dies, it also enables surviving family members to pay any outstanding IHT and proceed swiftly with an application for probate.

The cost of the insurance will depend on the age of the donor, their health and the amount of cover needed to protect the gift.

As an example, we recently assisted a 59-year-old client who was gifting a £ 4 million property, in London, to his daughter for use as her family home.

If the father were to die within seven years, his daughter would be liable to pay the IHT due on the gift. This property had an initial liability of £1.6 million which would start to taper 3 years after the gift is made. In this instance, the daughter would not have had enough liquid assets to cover this potential IHT bill. Consequently, if her father had died within seven years there would have been a real possibility that the property would have been sold to fund the IHT liability.

To avoid this the client made the decision to insure the gift. Ultimately, this approach means that the gift is a “closed deal” and the daughter will have the necessary funds available to pay the tax and retain the asset.

In the first three years, the indicative annual cost of this protection was around £3,350. This reduced in line with the IHT liability after year 3, as shown in the table below.

The total cost of the insurance over the seven years equates to just 0.49% of the total value of the gift made. There are other tax implications that need to be considered when gifting assets, such as Capital Gains Tax (CGT), however gifting assets to younger generations during an individual’s lifetime is often an efficient planning strategy.

How this approach can benefit your family?

Exclusive interview with Pascal Pieper, founder of Otium Circle

Otium Circle is a global community for lifestyle businesses who connect people with unique technology to become more successful together.

Tell us about Otium Circle, how and when started the idea to this platform?

The underlying ethos of Otium Circle is to connect people, and in this day in age technology is a key component in achieving that. My business partner and good friend, Stuart, is passionate about technology while I am passionate about bringing people together. So the idea for Otium Circle was born out of both our passions. We started about five years ago and experimented in a few industries before we started to focus on the luxury lifestyle sector. This really happened accidentally because our founding client was looking for a technology solution to communicate with their clients in an easy way. We developed our first app with their guidance, and have continuously added and improved features like communication functions, our own magazine, and an events space for our members. Since then, we have been growing steadily by adding quality businesses to our community and building strong relationships with all our clients. Big thank you to D2P for their support and trust five years ago.

For anyone who hasn’t heard of it, what is Otium Circle?

We are a community for business owners and decision makers of boutique and luxury lifestyle companies. Our core value-add are international and cross-industry collaborations, which are often unexpected – at least that’s what our clients tell us they love most about it. We create a safe and relaxed environment at our virtual and physical events so our clients are able to get creative and collaborate. This could be a new product or experience, joint events or marketing efforts, or extending product lines by leveraging the businesses in the community to service your clients better. A good example is the collaboration between Pancho Datos tequila and Exante, an investment company, at the Chelsea Flower Show in London. Exante was looking for an interactive cocktail experience to entertain their clients and guests. Pancho Datos gained access to a target audience they would have not reached otherwise. It was a great brand building opportunity for both companies and a great success – find out for yourself here

Who are Otium Circle members?

Our clients are business owners and decision makers of boutique companies offering luxurious products or experiences in the lifestyle space. Currently, clients are predominantly based in Europe and can be categorised into travel, supercar and premium product sectors. To give you an idea this ranges from private aviation and concierges, over car clubs and track day operators, to watches and fine alcohol. Of course we have some ‘out of the box’ clients, for example magicians and immersive caviar experiences. I am very proud of the community we have created because of the energetic atmosphere, collaborative mindsets and contagious positivity.

For who would

you

say is Otium Circle ideal for?

Otium Circle is ideal for business owners and decision markers seeking extraordinary collaborations. Over the past years we have facilitated many international and cross-industry collaborations in the luxury industry. In order to remain successful in building our community we assess new members on creativity of their business approach, showing good communication and embracing a long-term vision of their relationships. That has proved to be an effective method to ensure that every member has a collaborative mindset which is the backbone of what we do. Are there any exciting projects you are currently working on?

Yes, I am very excited and proud of our new app which was a huge team effort to develop. So far we have been focused on the b2b market which has been very successful. We are soon going to expand into the b2c market where people are able to buy and book extraordinary products and experiences through our app. This creates an additional sales channel for our clients, and customers are able to browse through a variety of limited edition products and time-limited experiences, exclusively available on the Otium Circle app, in one place.

Your top 5 business tips?

• Be the last one to speak. Listen to your team, peers and competitors. Absorb all information, and when it’s your turn to speak, you’re able to make an informed statement.

• Learn more about perspective. The ability to put yourself in someone else’s shoes is very powerful. It also teaches you that there are many ways to look at a situation - like Harvey Specter says: If someone points a gun to your head, find a (bigger) one to point back at them.

• Every conversation is useful. Even if you are too tired to meet someone for a drink after a stressful workday, make the effort because you never know what comes out of it!

• Always treat people with respect, no matter how they treat you. You will always cross paths again - in life & business, so always behave accordingly.

• Be persistent and straight up with people when you are on the hunt for new partners, clients or stakeholders. Beating around the bush only prolongs the process.

What is one motto you live by?

Variety is the spice of life & you should try everything at least twice!

LEADING JEWELLERY HOUSE AZZA FAHMY PARTNERS WITH BIDAYAT

Rachid Mohamed Rachid's investment platform will inject new capital to support the brand's vision and international expansion

Azza Fahmy Jewellery, the leading luxury design house in the Middle East renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship and authentic cultural storytelling, is pleased to partner with Bidayat, an Alsara Investment Group company founded by Rachid Mohamed Rachid. The investment platform will inject new capital into the familyowned jewellery house to support its regional development, retail expansion and international growth. The strategic ambitions for Azza Fahmy Jewellery also include a focus on its product offering to further promote the brand’s luxury positioning, while continuing to capitalise on the unique design and artisanal expertise already established over the past decades.

Azza Fahmy Jewellery is the Middle East’s leading jewellery brand, founded by Azza Fahmy, who is renowned for her pioneering spirit. In 1969, Mrs. Fahmy broke into the male dominated jewellery industry in Egypt, when she was the first woman to train as an apprentice with the masters in Cairo’s jewellery quarter. Through this trailblazing approach, authentic storytelling around cultures as well as the preservation of craftsmanship and education, Azza Fahmy Jewellery has garnered an esteemed following including world leaders, royalty and celebrities while having collaborated across some of the most sought- after and illustrious designer runways.

Bidayat’s mission to support talented entrepreneurs and highgrowth companies with a strong brand DNA is in great alignment with Azza Fahmy Jewellery’s innovative, ambitious, and empowering brand history. The shared values between the two companies create a strong foundation for this exciting partnership, given the investment company’s history of nurturing talent through education and supporting exceptional female entrepreneurs.

Azza Fahmy about her namesake brand.

www.bidayat.com www.azzafahmy.com

“I believe that our rich cultural heritage has huge potential to inspire wonderful and innovative creations to show the world what we can do. I am very happy about this partnership with Bidayat and have complete trust that we share the same values and vision to continue our global journey,” says

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