TRAVEL DOESN'T GET MORE EXCLUSIVE THAN THIS AS YOU CAN EXPLORE THE GLOBE FROM A PRIVATE JET
CHECK INTO DUBAI'S NOTORIOUS PARTY HOTEL'S SOPHISTICATED SIBLING
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE LOUIS VUITTON CAFE AT LONDON HEATHROW
RENOWNED IZAKAYA ZUMA LAUNCHES A CHIC POP-IP IN THE RAS AL KHAIMAH DESERT
WE SPEAK TO THE GENERAL MANAGER OF THE HOT NEW EV COMPANY HITTING THE UAE MARKET
16 THE BIGGEST WEEKEND IN ABU DHABI'S CALENDAR IS COMING UP AND WE'VE GOT THE LOW DOWN
18
IF YOU'RE SEEKING COOLER CLIMES THIS WINTER, HEAD TO FINLAND FOR A MAGICAL ESCAPE COSY
As we step into November, I'm thrilled to bring you an issue filled with curated experiences that redefine luxury and adventure, blending exploration with refinement. This month, our pages capture the spirit of travelling beyond the ordinary, dining in unexpected locales, and immersing in the opulent settings that today’s discerning traveller seeks.
For those whose wanderlust knows no limits, our feature on private jet expeditions opens a
editor’s letter
new world of possibilities, offering glimpses into bespoke journeys where every detail is designed and curated to create memories as vast as the horizons you’ll explore.
Closer to home, we dive into the experience of staying at the new Five Luxe JBR, a hotel that embodies Dubai’s chic and lively essence, merging luxury with vibrant design.
On the global front, we’ve captured a unique addition to London’s Heathrow – a Louis Vuitton café. As travellers pass through this famed airport, they now have the opportunity to indulge in the brand’s first café in London, where the atmosphere is as meticulously crafted as their high-fashion creations.
As always, we’re here to inspire and elevate your travel experiences, bringing you the world’s best offerings across the globe. Here’s to new discoveries and memorable adventures.
wishlist
Uncharted Discovery
Four Seasons Private Jet Experience
The Four Seasons Private Jet Experience redefines luxury air travel, offering an unparalleled journey for 48 distinguished guests aboard a custom-designed Airbus A321LRneo. Each passenger enjoys handcrafted Italian leather seats providing 6.5 feet of personal space that converts into a fully flat bed, complemented by a plush ottoman. The journey, priced at USD $215,000 per person double occupancy) includes an dedicated on-board physician, ensuring guests' wellbeing throughout. fourseasons.com/privatejet/journeys/ uncharted-discovery-2024
NEW ORLEANS
Boarding Pass
Nov 30 – Dec 20, 2024
21 Days
7 DestiNatioNs
New Orleans
Costa Rica
Machu Picchu
Buenos Aires
Antarctica
Bogota
Bahamas
The Uncharted Discovery 2024 programme spans 21 remarkable days across seven destinations, from the vibrant streets of New Orleans to the pristine wilderness of Antarctica. This meticulously crafted itinerary combines cultural immersion, natural wonders, and exclusive experiences
Dec 1- 4
A tropical paradise where golden shores meet verdant jungles, embodying the 'pura vida' philosophy. Adventures range from exhilarating canopy zip-lining to peaceful beach escapades, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Pacific Ocean.
Dec 10 - 15
Embarking from Punta Arenas, Chile, this extraordinary polar expedition aboard a state-of-the-art vessel offers an intimate encounter with Earth's final frontier. Daily excursions reveal stunning landscapes and unique wildlife while enjoying seamless Four Seasons service.
The journey begins in the soul of the American South. The newly opened waterfront hotel provides an elegant backdrop for immersing in the city's legendary jazz scene, distinctive Creole cuisine, and vibrant cultural celebrations.
BAHAMAS
Dec 18 - 20
Rising majestically from the Peruvian Highlands, this ancient Incan citadel captivates with its mysterious allure. An exclusive train journey through the Sacred Valley culminates in exploring legendary archaeological treasures, accompanied by sophisticated entertainment and cocktails. against Ocean.
Dec 4 - 7
ANTARCTICA
The journey concludes at the legendary Ocean Club, where pristine beaches meet tropical luxury. This idyllic Caribbean haven provides the perfect setting for final celebrations and sun-soaked relaxation after an extraordinary global adventure.
COLOMBIA
Dec 15 - 18
Colombia's vibrant capital presents an intriguing fusion of colonial charm and contemporary culture. From aromatic coffee experiences to private salsa lessons, the city pulses with energy while showcasing the finest nuevo Colombiano cuisine.
Dec 7 - 10
ARGENTINA
Elegantly blending European grandeur with Latin American passion, the 'Paris of South America' enchants visitors with its architectural splendour and artistic soul. A special excursion to the magnificent UNESCO World Heritage site of Iguazú Falls crowns the experience.
COSTA RICA
May 6 - 9
Perched majestically above the Peloponnese countryside, a modernday acropolis combines classical architecture with contemporary luxury. The resort offers the perfect finale to the grand tour, with its exceptional Beach Club, spectacular views, and proximity to ancient historical sites.
GREECE
Magnificent Islamic architecture rises from the heart of the legendary Silk Road, where the luxurious Silk Road Samarkand Minyoun provides contemporary comfort whilst exploring this ancient crossroads of civilisations.
AMAN Private Jet Experience
The Grandest Tour expedition
The Grandest Tour Jet Journey represents the pinnacle of luxury travel, offering an extraordinary expedition limited to just 18 privileged guests. This meticulously curated adventure traverses seven countries, seamlessly blending ancient traditions with modern sophistication. Aboard a private jet, travellers journey from Japan's sophisticated urbanscapes to Thailand's tropical paradise, India's rich cultural tapestry, and Greece's timeless shores. Each destination showcases the legendary Aman touch, where exceptional service meets architectural brilliance and cultural authenticity. The starting price, based on double occupancy, for The Grandest Tour 2025 is USD $188,888 per person. aman.com/resorts/journeys/grandest-tour
Boarding Pass
april - 9
Perched above a crescent-shaped beach in southern contemporary seaside Amanwella, Tangalle pools and panoramic
The property harmoniously with its tropical surroundings, providing an elegant exploring pristine beaches cultural treasures.
SRI LANKA
May 1 - 4
Standing as a testament to Mughal splendour in rural Rajasthan, the walled oasis recreates the grandeur of India's golden age. Set amidst verdant gardens, it offers a serene escape where guests can explore ancient ruins, experience traditional Ayurvedic treatments, and immerse themselves in the rich culture of rural India.
crescent-shaped Sri Lanka, seaside resort Tangalle offers private panoramic ocean views. harmoniously blends surroundings, elegant escape for beaches and
apr 25 - 28
Gracefully occupying a private peninsula on Phuket's west coast, the coconut palm paradise presents the perfect blend of beach luxury and Thai culture. With its comprehensive wellness centre and fleet of private yachts, it epitomises tropical sophistication whilst offering endless adventures.
apr 19 - 22
Towering above Tokyo's skyline at the crown of Otemachi Tower, this urban sanctuary offers breathtaking views of the Imperial Gardens and Mount Fuji. The property masterfully blends traditional Japanese aesthetics with contemporary luxury, serving as an ideal base for exploring Tokyo's fascinating mixture of ancient traditions and cutting-edge modernity.
apr 22 - 25
Between the embrace of Nui Chua National Park and Vinh Hy Bay lies a coastal haven combining dramatic landscapes with serene luxury. The resort offers pristine beaches, world-class spa facilities, and spectacular views of Vietnam's untouched central coastline.
VIETNAM
Priced at USD $154,950 per person (based on double occupancy), this expedition aboard TCS World Travel's new Airbus A321neo-LR represents the pinnacle of private jet journeys, accommodating just 52 privileged guests in ultimate comfort. This meticulously crafted all-inclusive adventure spans nine diverse destinations, weaving together ancient traditions, natural wonders, and cultural masterpieces across the Indian Ocean region. The journey showcases everything from ultramodern cityscapes to pristine wildlife sanctuaries, from ancient temples to tropical paradises.
The historic Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, tells tales of ancient trade routes and cultural convergence. Park Hyatt Zanzibar offers luxury accommodations within walking distance of spice markets, ancient forts, and other fascinating remnants of the island's storied past.
MOZAMBIQUE
July 10 - 11
Mozambique's capital presents a fascinating blend of African and Portuguese influences. The Southern Sun Maputo provides beachfront luxury while exploring the city's architectural treasures, from Eiffel's Iron House to the historic railway station.
JuNe 26 July 16 - 17
Rising from desert sands, this futuristic metropolis serves as the journey's starting point. The Four Seasons Resort at Jumeirah Beach offers a luxurious haven where Arabian hospitality meets contemporary elegance, featuring pristine beaches, world-class spa facilities, and spectacular city views.
TCS World Travel: An expedition by Luxury
Wonders Indian
July 7 - 9
This paradise island, lauded by Mark Twain, offers pristine white-sand beaches and cultural fusion. The Four Seasons Resort at Anahita presents elegant villas, world-class golf, and extensive water activities amidst the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean.
July 12 - 13
A dramatic volcanic island where mountains ocean, Réunion offers spectacular landscapes helicopter exploration. LUX* Saint Gilles elegance beside a coral-sheltered lagoon, French sophistication with tropical island
REUNION ISLAND
The Wild Coast Tented Lodge provides an extraordinary base for exploring Yala National Park's diverse ecosystems. This wildlife sanctuary boasts one of the world's highest leopard densities, alongside ancient shrines and varied landscapes from monsoon forests to marine wetlands.
SRI LANKA
Luxury Private Jet
Wonders of the Ocean
MAURITIUS
mountains meet landscapes perfect for Gilles provides colonial lagoon, combining island charm.
July 5 - 6
Dominated by the majestic 8thcentury Buddhist temple, this cultural heartland of Java offers spiritual enlightenment. The Amanjiwo resort provides an unparalleled vantage point for exploring this UNESCO World Heritage site and surrounding volcanic landscapes.
INDONESIA
JuNe 30 - July 1
This dynamic city-state exemplifies where tradition meets innovation. From the iconic Raffles Hotel to the futuristic Gardens by the Bay, Singapore captivates with its perfect blend of colonial heritage, cuttingedge architecture, and cultural diversity.
SINGAPORE
AUSTRALIA
July 2 - 4
Western Australia's capital, Perth, combines sophisticated urban lifestyle with natural wonders. The COMO The Treasury provides luxurious accommodation while exploring Perth's artistic heritage, visiting the charming Rottnest Island, and experiencing the region's renowned wine territories.
THE LUXE LIFE
Having already made its name as one of the most hedonistic and playful hotel groups in the Middle East, FIVE Holdings made headlines with the announcement of its third Dubai property. FIVE LUXE JBR carves a space for itself in a competitive hospitality scene.
Following the success of FIVE Palm Jumeirah and FIVE Jumeirah Village, we waited with anticipation to see how Dubai's mischevious hotel brand would evolve with the launch of FIVE LUXE JBR. The hotel positions itself an immersive destination where indulgence, entertainment, and sophisticated living seamlessly converge. Set along the stunning Arabian Gulf coastline, this newly launched property has swiftly
established itself as a key player in Dubai’s luxury hospitality scene. By blending high-end living with the pulse of dynamic entertainment, FIVE LUXE offers an elevated escape that aims to redefine the concept of luxury by giving it a signature FIVE twist. The property is huge – its vast lobby faces out to the pool and beach through several storeys of glass. The building is designed in a U-shape with the vibrant day club Playa Pacha as its shining centrepiece. Our ‘Gorgeous Room’ is on the east wing – a bright and spacious room with a large balcony overlooking the pool. We instantly feel a buzz of energy as we open the sliding doors to hear soft house music
from three floors below. Playa Pacha encapsulates the renowned energy of one of Ibiza’s most adored venues. Pacha Group now belongs to the FIVE family so it serves as more than just a crowd-pulling name, it’s a true extension of the brand. The atmosphere was infectious from the moment we arrived, with music curated by a resident DJ, a busy but not over-crowded pool and several areas to
enjoy the vibe from. A selection of Mediterranean-inspired dishes complemented the ambience, offering fresh bites poolside. From a light and refreshing poke bowl, to the flavourful mezze board, we devoured the selection. Whether basking in the sun with a cocktail in hand or enjoying the serene waterfront views, Playa Pacha delivers a unique fusion of glamour and energy, creating an experience that’s both indulgent and fabulous. As the sun dips below the horizon, we head back to the room to get ready. Having booked Paradiso for pre-dinner drinks at the time it opens its doors for the evening, we hadn’t expected to experience it in its full form. Voted best bar in the world (in 2022) for its original Barcelona edition, Paradiso is a destination that transforms the art of mixology into an experience. However, it’s a place best suited to night owls looking to make memories in the early hours
than us sensible folk. Each cocktail had its own experiential theme and storyline, blending unexpected flavours with that all-important Instagrammable moment. With JBR’s skyline twinkling in the background, the elegance of Paradiso was palpable, setting the perfect tone for the evening ahead.
Dinner at Ronin proved to be the highlight of the evening, offering a sensory dining journey through Japaneseinspired cuisine. The live teppanyaki
WE INSTANTLY FEEL A BUZZ OF ENERGY AS WE OPEN THE SLIDING DOORS TO HEAR SOFT HOUSE MUSIC FROM THREE FLOORS BELOW.
station provided a theatrical touch, as expert chefs skilfully prepared dishes with precision and flair. The sushi, prepared with meticulous attention to detail, showcased the freshness of the ingredients, while the teppanyaki – particularly the wagyu beef –delivered bold, refined flavours. Ronin strikes a perfect balance between intimacy and spectacle, blending tradition with innovation in each dish. Energetic luxury awaits Later, we retreated to our room, an oasis of calm after a day of indulgence. With floor-
to-ceiling windows framing spectacular views of the Arabian Gulf and Ain Dubai, the room was thoughtfully designed with sleek, sophisticated touches. FIVE LUXE JBR has introduced a new level of luxury, where guests can immerse themselves in the excitement of the Dubai’s most dynamic social scene. The flexibility to choose your experience offers something for all traveller types, that puts FIVE’s newest baby in very good stead to be a successful venture for the group.
@fiveluxejbr
Louis Vuitton
takes flight with a new cafe
LouisVuitton has long been synonymous with luxury and style, and now it’s making a bold move into the culinary world with its latest venture. Now open at Heathrow Terminal 2, the Louis Vuitton Café marks the brand’s first foray into hospitality in the UK. This opening is an embodiment of the brand’s deep-rooted connection with travel and craftsmanship, creating a luxurious stopover for those passing through one of the world’s busiest airports. Louis Vuitton’s expansion into the culinary scene feels like a natural progression. Since the establishment of the Fondation Louis Vuitton in 2014, the brand has shown a growing commitment to cultural engagement. From collaborations with global artists like Yayoi Kusama to the appointment of Pharrell Williams as creative director in 2023, the brand’s influence now extends well beyond fashion.
This blend of art, culture, and lifestyle has been the driving force behind Louis Vuitton’s ventures into hospitality, with locations in Osaka, Paris, and St Tropez paving the way for its latest UK outpost. At Heathrow, the café offers more than just a place to grab a bite; it’s an immersive experience.
The sleek, aerodynamic design by Marc Fornes of THEVERYMANY draws inspiration from the future of travel. Curved interiors, golden accents, and decadent red touches pay homage to the
Maison’s signature aesthetic, while subtle nods to aviation feature throughout the space. Guests can expect to see elements from Louis Vuitton’s Objets Nomades collection, including elegant bird-shaped designs that soar above the café. The culinary direction of the Louis Vuitton Café is helmed by Cyril Lignac, the renowned French chef behind London and Paris’ Bar des Prés. His menu is a celebration of classic French flavours, offering something for every traveller, whether they’re looking for a light bite or a more indulgent meal. From freshly baked croissants and royal eggs for breakfast to more refined options like crab salads, lobster rolls, and a Louis Vuitton take on the classic croque monsieur, the menu promises a touch of Parisian elegance. Guests can also indulge in a selection of Louis Vuitton patisseries, rounding off their dining experience with artisanal desserts crafted with the same attention to detail as the brand’s iconic leather goods. louisvuitton.com
Dine in the Dunes
ZUMA pops up in Ras Al Khaimah
This winter, Zuma invites you to an extraordinary pop-up desert dining experience in Ras Al Khaimah. Open until 30 April, 2025, this limitedtime event promises an unforgettable evening of exquisite Japanese cuisine amidst the stunning red sands. Situated at The Ritz-Carlton, Ras Al Khaimah Al Wadi Desert, diners can enjoy delectable dishes under a starry sky, accompanied by the vibrant beats of a live DJ and panoramic views of the desert dunes. This unique Zuma Ras Al Khaimah pop-up setting enhances the overall dining experience, making it perfect for both intimate gatherings and lively celebrations. Nestled over two levels, Zuma Ras Al Khaimah's pop-up features its celebrated izakaya-style dining, showcasing a selection of iconic dishes that have made the brand famous. Guests can indulge in Zuma’s signature gindara no saikyo miso yaki, renowned for its miso-marinated black cod with a delicate texture and subtle sweetness, another
highlight is the wagyu sirloin tataki, drizzled with truffle ponzu. Each dish promises to delight the senses, capturing the essence of Zuma's culinary excellence.
The Zuma Ras Al Khaimah pop-up menu also includes an extensive range of classic sushi and sashimi, meticulously crafted and beautifully presented. For those eager to explore more, the bespoke tasting menu features a thoughtfully curated selection that encapsulates the heart of Zuma’s globally renowned culinary philosophy. Don't miss this golden opportunity to experience Zuma in a magical setting. Book your table online to dine under the stars. zumarestaurant.com/locations/ras-al-khaimah
NIO offers a Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) model. Instead of owning the battery, customers can rent it and swap it when needed, which lowers the initial cost of the car and reduces charging times to just a few minutes.
NIO beyond the EV
Chinese-born NIO is a luxury EV brand blending cutting-edge battery-swapping tech with AI-driven features, offering an elevated, community-focused experience that redefines electric car ownership as a lifestyle choice.
Beyond its tech, NIO cultivates a lifestyle brand with NIO Houses –stylish hubs for owners to relax, work, and connect – appealing to those seeking performance with a premium, communitydriven identity.
NIO, a leading name in premium electric vehicles, has officially arrived in the UAE, making its debut with the flagship model, the EL8. This milestone marks the brand’s entry into the MENA region as it approaches its ten-year anniversary, underscoring NIO’s dedication to integrating cuttingedge technology, sustainable design, and luxury to create a unique, community-driven experience in the UAE. Speaking on NIO’s vision, General Manager Roberto Lopes Da Silva emphasized the brand’s “peoplefirst” approach. Unlike traditional car brands, NIO is about building meaningful connections. “NIO is a community; it’s about people, not just users,” he shared, reflecting the brand’s focus on fostering a sense of belonging for drivers. In its home market of China, NIO has already built a loyal following with over 10 million app subscribers and nearly 600,000 vehicles sold, creating a connected network of engaged customers. At the forefront of NIO’s technology is its battery-swapping capability, which aims to tackle “range anxiety,” a common concern among EV users. This innovative process allows users to swap a depleted battery for a fully charged one in under four minutes, akin to a Formula One pit stop. The robotic arm
replaces the battery quickly, offering drivers a fresh charge faster than a conventional refuel. Soon, NIO’s Power Swap Stations will be operational across key UAE locations, redefining local EV standards by providing a convenient and sustainable charging solution that could inspire other brands. NIO’s UAE launch goes beyond cars; it brings a lifestyle concept with the opening of the first MENA region NIO House in Abu Dhabi’s Galleria Mall. Unlike traditional showrooms, NIO House is a vibrant space for socialising, networking, and connecting with others in the NIO community.
“The NIO House is where people can socialise, network, buy vehicles... and feel at home,” said Lopes Da Silva, highlighting
conscious drivers. Performancewise, it’s powered by an allwheel-drive system with dual electric motors, generating 850 Nm of torque to reach 0-100 km/h in just 4.1 seconds. With a swappable battery that can cover up to 510 km on a single charge, the EL8 is ideal for UAE’s longdistance journeys. With the UAE’s innovative outlook, NIO’s entry signals a promising future for luxury, sustainable mobility in the region. Partnering with Abu Dhabi’s CYVN Holdings, NIO has set a solid foundation for its MENA expansion, aiming to introduce more models soon. NIO’s UAE debut establishes a new benchmark for communitydriven, sustainable electric mobility in the region. nio.com/en_AE
NIO’s commitment to fostering genuine relationships with its customers. The EL8, NIO’s six-seat SUV priced from AED 359,900, represents the brand’s commitment to sustainability. Using eco-friendly materials like rattan interiors and soybean foam seats, the EL8 offers an elevated experience for environmentally
F1 ALL-INCLUSIVE EXPERIENCE
SKYBRIDGE BY VELOCITY
Operating from noon until 8pm across the three days, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix package includes unlimited premium beverages and international cuisine. Between racing sessions, guests can test their skills on professional racing simulators, while DJs create an engaging atmosphere throughout the afternoon. The experience extends beyond daytime activities, with each package including concert tickets to major international acts. Friday welcomes Maroon 5 to the stage, Saturday sees Eminem perform, and Muse closes the weekend on Sunday evening, completing the entertainment lineup.
SKYBRIDGE offers flexible options for different schedules and preferences. Single-day visits begin at AED 1,700 for Friday access, while the comprehensive three-day Abu Dhabi Grand Prix package costs AED 11,000. Every option includes full hospitality service and concert entry.
For those seeking a blend of
and
luxury dining
thrilling motorsport, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2024 brunch
DECK AT TWO BRUNCH
A standout brunch experience awaits at Deck At Two, a luxurious dining spot offering a premium vantage point along Yas Marina Circuit’s famous Flag Hill. This exclusive brunch experience starts at AED 4,850 and provides guests with curated tasting menus from worldrenowned chefs.
You can savour the bold Japanese flavours of Nobu, Mediterranean delights from Milos, and Michelinstarred Cantonese dishes from Hakkasan. This all-inclusive package also includes premium beverages, free-flowing bubbly, and live DJ performances, ensuring a seamless blend of luxury and excitement as the racing action unfolds nearby.
GARDEN ON YAS BY COYA
This year, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix welcomes Garden on Yas by COYA, a luxurious brunch experience designed for guests who crave high-energy entertainment paired with culinary excellence. Situated near the W Hotel Abu Dhabi and overlooking the Marina, this venue delivers an exhilarating day-to-night dining experience.
Starting at AED 4,500, you can enjoy COYA’s famous Peruvian cuisine, with award-winning dishes and premium beverages crafted by expert chefs and mixologists. The all-inclusive menu is a treat for the senses, allowing guests to savour each bite amidst the excitement of the race.
winter havens C
O S Y
For those seeking the best places to see the Northern Lights in Finland, Lapland offers a treasure trove of cosy accommodations that combine comfort with prime aurora-viewing opportunities. These intimate retreats provide the perfect base for experiencing the magic of the Arctic winter.
Stay in iconic glass igloos offering front-row views of the Northern Lights from bed. Enjoy winter adventures like husky sledding and snowmobiling before retreating to a cosy sanctuary – a perfect blend of luxury and nature for an unforgettable Arctic escape. kakslauttanen.fi
Near Ruka ski resort, this boutique offers a cosy experience with stunning views of snowy Lapland. This alpine-style retreat features warm wood interiors, panoramic windows, and ski slope access, perfect for winter sports lovers. Unwind in the sauna or enjoy local cuisine with breathtaking vistas. @rukapeak
This hotel offers stunning views of snow-laden forests and, occasionally, the Northern Lights. Its cubic suites feature panoramic windows and cosy, wood-clad interiors. With luxurious amenities and a location near Santa’s hometown, it’s a magical retreat. arctictreehousehotel.com
Experience Arctic luxury at Villa Naavanneito in Levi, Lapland—an exclusive retreat blending modern Scandinavian design with Finnish nature. Enjoy a private sauna with panoramic views of snowy forests, cosy interiors, and highend amenities, perfect for a winter escape amid the Northern Lights. hideoutvillas.com
