GET TO KNOW CANADA'S BEST-KEPT SECRET AND ANSWER TO THE HAMPTONS, LAKE MUSKOKA
BEYOND ITALY
DISCOVER OUT-OF-THIS-WORLD COOKING AT THREE-MICHELIN-STARRED ATELIER MOESSMER
10
SIX MALDIVIAN HOTELS THAT WILL MAKE YOU RETHINK WHAT A LUXURY RESORT SHOULD BE
16
LEAVE IT TO DUBAI TO EXECUTE A SUB-ZERO DEGREE EXPERIENCE IN THE MIDDLE OF SUMMER
JOIN US AS WE RACE AROUND THE BIG APPLE, SOAKING UP AS MUCH OF IT AS POSSIBLE
THE NUMBER ONE PLACE WE'RE HOPING TO SEE AND BE SEEN ON THE FRENCH RIVIERA
HOW THE MARK HOTEL NEW YORK HAS EARNED, AND KEPT, ITS STELLAR REPUTATION
THE MUCH ANTICIPATED INA DUBAI IS FINALLY HERE, AND IT WAS WORTH THE WAIT
editor's letter
As the height of summer arrives, we're excited to bring you an issue packed with unique discoveries and compelling escapes around the world.
First, let me transport you to Canada's serene Lake Muskoka – a hidden gem offering an idyllic alternative to the Hamptons. This tranquil retreat combines natural beauty with refined luxury, promising relaxation at its finest. Our feature reveals exactly why this destination should be your next summer sanctuary.
Then, join us on a thrilling whirlwind through the vibrant streets of New York City. Our quick guide captures the pulse of the Big Apple, highlighting must-visit spots and unmissable experiences for those seeking an unforgettable city break within 48 hours. We'll also share our thoughts on one of the city's most coveted stays, The Mark, located off the iconic Madison Avenue and just one block from Central Park.
Closer to home, Dubai delivers an extraordinary experience with Kempinski's Aspen Ski Chalet, where you can escape the summer heat into sub-zero luxury. Discover this extraordinary alpine retreat tucked away in the heart of the city – truly a winter wonderland in July.
Soaking up life on the lake
Elsewhere in the issue, explore culinary excellence at the three-Michelin-starred Atelier Moessmer, indulge in unparalleled luxury across six breathtaking Maldivian resorts, and uncover the refined elegance of The Mark Hotel, New York’s celebrated institution. Also, don’t miss our spotlight on the French Riviera’s most stylish spot, the Jacquemus pop-up at Monte-Carlo Beach, Monaco and the much-anticipated opening of J1 Beach's final puzzle piece, INA Dubai. Here’s to memorable moments and extraordinary travels this summer.
Stepping off a floatplane onto a private cottage dock in Muskoka offers an immediate sense of escape from the urban vibe of Toronto we’d just left 45 minutes earlier. This region of southeast Canada, with its 1,600 pristine lakes and 13,400 km of shoreline, has earned its reputation as the 'Hamptons of the North'
for those seeking exclusive retreats with five-star amenities while surrounded by unspoiled wilderness dating back 1.5 billion years. While locals modestly refer to these properties as 'cottages', the reality is far more impressive. Muskokan cottages blend seamlessly with their natural surroundings, offering a level of privacy that has
become the ultimate luxury in today's connected world. With strict development regulations preserving the region's natural beauty, Muskoka maintains its exclusive character while providing world-class accommodations.
Our Muskoka cottage experience began with a floatplane journey from Toronto's Billy Bishop Airport with Cottage Air. The transition from urban landscape to endless forests
Summer Serenity on Lake Muskoka
[MUSKOKA] HAS EARNED ITS REPUTATION AS THE 'HAMPTONS OF THE NORTH' FOR THOSE SEEKING FIVESTAR AMENITIES WHILE SURROUNDED BY UNSPOILED WILDERNESS.
From floatplane arrivals to celebrity cottage spotting, we discover why Muskoka's exclusive lakefront properties have earned their reputation as Canada's answer to the Hamptons
MUSKOKA BAY LODGE
SANTOSHA
and sparkling lakes was immediately striking. Leading the transformation of Muskoka's rental landscape is Jayne's Luxury Rentals, founded by our host, Jayne McCaw, in 2013. Identifying a gap in the market for truly high-end accommodations, the company now manages around 300 properties, primarily in the Muskoka area. Our first stop is at Wildcat Point, not the cottage we’ll be staying in but where we’ll be spending half our time over the next four days. It’s elegant
and modern yet classical in the best way possible. Hermes blankets drape carefully over the large sectional sofa, and chic coffee table books are neatly piled on solid wood furniture. Through floor to ceiling windows, we spy glistening water through breaks in the trees. This is our first taste of cottage life and it’s already so sweet. Our home for the Muskoka cottage experience was Santosha, a fivebedroom property that demonstrates what sets Muskoka cottages apart. Every detail felt considered, from the well-equipped kitchen to the expansive great room with wooden beams overhead, a huge stone fireplace and a tranquil decked patio with picnic benches to help you switch off from city life.
THROUGH FLOOR TO CEILING WINDOWS, WE SPY GLISTENING WATER THROUGH BREAKS IN THE TREES. THIS OUR FIRST TASTE OF COTTAGE LIFE AND IT’S ALREADY SO SWEET.
A four-course dinner prepared in-cottage by private chef Brandon welcomed us on the first evening. His multi-course feast included highlights such as torched salmon crispy rice paired with local wine.
This is just one of the many additional services offered to help take your stay from great to exceptional. Jayne's team operates more like a lifestyle management service than a traditional rental agency –arranging everything from boat charters to wine tastings. The Muskoka experience extends beyond just your accommodation. A pontoon boat tour with Jayne around Lakes Rosseau and Joseph proved invaluable, as she showcased the huge variety of cottages in the area, even
WILDCAT POINT
MUSKOKA BAY LODGE
WILDCAT POINT
ROSSEAU MANOR
ITS OUTDOOR AREA, LINED WITH FAMOUS ‘MUSKOKA CHAIRS’ IS THE PERFECT SPOT TO UNWIND ON A SUNNY AFTERNOON BY THE
LAKE.
pointing out A-list celebrityowned properties along the shoreline. The region's "Big 3" lakes – Muskoka, Rosseau, and Joseph – are connected via locks, allowing for easy exploration by boat.
For those wishing to explore the area, nearby towns like Port Carling, Bracebridge, and Huntsville offer charming local experiences and amenities. A visit to Jack and Stella in
the quaint town of Bala proved particularly worthwhile – this café serves quality coffee and locally-inspired dishes in a relaxed setting that captures the region's unhurried pace. Its outdoor area, lined with famous ‘Muskoka chairs’, is the perfect spot to unwind on a sunny afternoon by the lake. One evening, we dined at The Rosseau at Windermere House – a hotel steeped in history having been built in 1870. The restaurant’s elevated vibe, balanced with the serene surroundings, makes it a must-visit. As does its delightful sushi menu. Jayne has big ambitions to put Muskoka on the luxurygetaway map. "Our goal is to provide the ultimate in both luxury and privacy," she tells
us. "These properties represent the pinnacle of lakeside living, with all the comforts and conveniences of a luxury resort but in a completely private setting."
The appeal of Muskoka shifts with the seasons, each offering a distinct experience. Summer brings warm lake waters perfect for swimming and boating, while autumn transforms the landscape into a spectacular canvas of red and gold. Winter offers cosy fireside evenings and outdoor activities on frozen lakes, and spring awakens the region with fresh greenery and flowing waters.
Rates vary considerably by season, with peak summer periods (mid-July to midAugust) commanding premium prices. However, the shoulder seasons offer excellent value for those seeking a luxury
WILDCAT POINT
JACK AND STELLA
experience without the peak season crowds. All rates include Jayne's signature fivestar white linens and midweek housekeeping during peak season, making the stay feel closer to what you’d find at a luxury hotel. In today's world, the most valuable luxury may simply be having details handled without having to think about them. Muskoka cottages offer exactly that – a chance to enjoy pristine nature, lake views, and quality time with companions, while thoughtful service operates quietly in the background before you can even realise.
What makes this approach particularly effective is its subtlety. There's no fanfare about the daily housekeeping and no elaborate concierge services. Instead, everything simply works as it should. The kitchen is fully-stocked on arrival, the boat is fuelled for afternoon excursions, and dinner reservations appear in your schedule without you having to research local restaurants. For those seeking a refined escape, this understated approach delivers exactly what busy professionals need most – the freedom to simply be present. jaynescottages.com
SANTOSHA
Beyond Italy
A CULINARY PILGRIMAGE TO THE PEAKS OF TASTE
In an unprecedented culinary feat, Atelier Moessmer earned three Michelin stars within just four months of opening, setting a world record that has left the fine dining community in awe. Nestled in South Tyrol, Italy, this achievement marks a new chapter in the region’s gastronomic legacy.
The swift ascent to culinary excellence demonstrates the exceptional vision of chef Norbert Niederkofler and his dedicated team. Their commitment to innovative gastronomy and local ingredients has established a new benchmark for fine dining excellence in the region.
The restaurant finds its home in the historic executive villa of Moessmer, a prestigious textile producer established in 1894. Once crafting fabrics for luxury fashion houses like Louis Vuitton and Chanel, the building has been meticulously preserved to maintain its elegant character while housing one of the world’s most exceptional dining venues.
The space artfully divides into intimate dining areas, each thoughtfully designed to create an atmosphere worthy of its three Michelin stars. During renovation, strict regulations led to creative solutions, resulting in unique dining spaces that blend historical architecture with contemporary comfort. The addition of state-of-the-art speakers in each room reflects chef Niederkofler’s attention to creating a complete sensory experience.
Chef Norbert Niederkofler’s “Cook the Mountain” philosophy stands at the heart of Atelier Moessmer’s swift rise to culinary stardom. The 14-course tasting menu, priced at €320, showcases the chef’s dedication to local ingredients and innovative techniques. Each dish tells a story of the surrounding landscape, from the summer salad featuring up to 30 different mountain herbs to the twicesmoked summer trout adorned with elderflower in various preparations. The menu demonstrates an unwavering commitment to sustainability and local sourcing – also earning it a Michelin Green Star. Dishes like the white fish tartare utilise every part of the fish, while
the innovative Pajata alla Mamma Rosa reimagines traditional comfort food with modern techniques. This careful balance between innovation and respect for ingredients has contributed significantly to earning their stars.
The experience at Atelier Moessmer transcends traditional fine dining. Guests begin their evening in a beautiful garden for aperitifs before moving through the historic villa’s various rooms. The attention to detail extends beyond the plate, with custom-made knives crafted by local artisans to create an atmosphere that engages all senses.
Chef Niederkofler’s expertise, honed over 25 years of culinary excellence, shines through in every aspect of Atelier Moessmer. His previous success at St. Hubertus restaurant, where he also earned three Michelin stars, laid the foundation for this record-breaking achievement. The restaurant continues to welcome guests who seek not just a meal, but an extraordinary dining experience that honours both tradition and innovation in the heart of South Tyrol.
ateliermoessmer.com
SOVEREIGN SANDS
Six exceptional Maldivian retreats boast the ultimate luxury escape in the Indian Ocean. Through distinct approaches to island life that shouldn't be missed, discover the best the archipelago has to offer.
Cheval Blanc Randheli
Set in the pristine Noonu Atoll, Cheval Blanc Randheli brings French sophistication to the Maldives. The 45 villas, whether overwater or beachfront, offer complete privacy with personalised service from dedicated Alchemists who craft bespoke experiences. Le 1947 restaurant showcases nine-course French-inspired cuisine, whilst other venues serve Mediterranean and Japanese fare. Each villa features its own private pool, with the exclusive Owner's Villa occupying an entire private island accessible only by dhoni.
@chevalblancrandheli
Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi
Waldorf Astoria finds its tropical expression on private Ithaafushi island. Three accommodation collections offer different experiences, from overwater villas to a private island. Eleven restaurants and bars provide global cuisine, while the spa focuses on wellness and meditation. @waldorfastoriamaldives
Velaa Private Island
Velaa Private Island caters to those seeking complete exclusivity with high staff-to-guest ratios. The resort features an 18-hole golf academy designed by José María Olazábal. Dining options include intimate beachside experiences and signature restaurant venues. The spa focuses on holistic wellness treatments in complete tranquillity.
@velaaprivateisland
One&Only Reethi Rah
Spanning one of the largest islands in North Malé Atoll, One&Only Reethi Rah offers 12 pristine beaches across its expansive 44-hectare island. The spacious villas, some approaching 1,000 square metres, include private beach access and dedicated housekeeping teams. Dining venues range from the overwater Japanese restaurant Tapasake to beachside Reethi Restaurant, with additional options including Middle Eastern cuisine at Botanica and international fare at Grand Sunset Residence. Each villa category provides generous outdoor space, with some featuring private pools stretching up to 30 metres.
@ooreethirah
JOALI Maldives
Art takes centre stage at JOALI Maldives, where contemporary installations complement the natural beauty of the Raa Atoll. The resort combines creativity with conservation, featuring a coral restoration programme alongside its unique design elements. Overwater villas include private infinity pools, whilst the underwater restaurant offers dining amongst marine life. The Manta Treehouse provides elevated dining experiences, and Saoke restaurant delivers contemporary Japanese cuisine in an overwater setting.
@joalimaldives
Soneva Jani
Soneva Jani's overwater villas in Noonu Atoll feature retractable roofs that open to reveal the Maldivian night sky, creating an unparalleled stargazing experience. Each villa provides direct access to one of the world's largest lagoons, with dedicated personal assistants ensuring seamless service. The overwater Cinema Paradiso offers an enchanting setting to enjoy film screenings beneath the stars.
@sonevajaniresort
A NEW YORK MINUTE
INSIDE OUR EVENTFUL 48-HOUR TRIP TO THE BIG APPLE
New York City pulses with an energy that's impossible to replicate. In 48 hours, we discovered Manhattan's magic lies in unexpected moments of tranquility within urban chaos.
From Hudson Yards' cutting-edge architecture to Dumbo's industrial charm, our weekend revealed why this city continues to captivate visitors worldwide.
Our adventure begins at Hudson Yards, Manhattan's newest neighbourhood that has transformed the far west side into a gleaming testament to modern development. We start at the Public Square and Gardens, where manicured green spaces provide a peaceful introduction to the day.
The real thrill comes at The Edge, the Western Hemisphere's highest outdoor sky deck. Suspended 100 floors above ground, this triangular platform extends from the building like glass jutting into the sky.
From this lofty perch, we transition to the High Line. Originally a
freight rail line, the High Line has been transformed into a linear park, weaves through the Meatpacking District and Chelsea. Walking the raised pathway, we're struck by how seamlessly nature and architecture coexist. The High Line's charm comes from preserving its railway heritage – steel rails peek through wooden planking, maintaining the original industrial character.
No New York itinerary is complete without Central Park. We approach this 843-acre oasis from the south-east corner, where the park reveals Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux's masterful landscape architecture.
We meander past Bethesda Fountain, where the ornate Angel of the Waters
BROOKLYN BRIDGE
sculpture overlooks the bustling terrace below – a quintessentially New York contrast. The tree-lined Literary Walk, with its statues of famous writers, creates a peaceful promenade through the park's heart. At the Conservatory Water, model sailboats drift across the pond while families gather to watch the miniature regatta. Our second day takes us south to Soho, where cast-iron architecture creates some of Manhattan's most photogenic streetscapes. We wander down Spring Street, admiring the elaborate fire escapes that cascade down building facades.
Soho's shopping scene requires strategy – this isn't about rushing through department stores, but rather about discovering carefully curated boutiques.
At the Jacquemus store, French minimalism meets New York sophistication
in a sleek retail space. Independent designers showcase everything from handcrafted jewellery to avant-garde fashion in gallery-like spaces. Our final destination takes us across the East River to Dumbo, where industrial Brooklyn meets contemporary sophistication. Brooklyn Bridge Park stretches along the waterfront, offering spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline. We settle on a bench near Pier 1, watching the financial district's towers catch the afternoon light.
Time Out Market provides the perfect conclusion, gathering Brooklyn's best food vendors under one industrial-chic roof. We claim a table with water views and reflect on our weekend's discoveries.
In just 48 hours, we've experienced New York's remarkable ability to blend the historic with the cutting-edge. Whether standing 100 floors above the street or walking tree-lined paths in Central Park, the city offers moments that feel both entirely unique and somehow familiar. Every visit, no matter how brief, feels like a completely unexpected adventure – and the beginning of a longer love affair with the city that truly never sleeps.
DUMBO
SOHO
THE HIGHLINE
The Art of Living
From its bold lobby to a record-breaking penthouse with Central Park views, The Mark hotel in New York has been rewriting the rules of what luxury hospitality should look like since 2009.
The lobby at The Mark makes a strong first impression. Instead of the expected marble columns and crystal chandeliers, you're greeted by bold black-and-white geometric patterns and deeply saturated velvet armchairs that somehow feel both playful and refined. This isn't the stuffy Upper East Side hotel you might anticipate – it's something far more interesting.
The Mark manages to feel both timelessly elegant and thoroughly contemporary, a balance that requires genuine skill to achieve. Staff members remember your preferences without making a show of it, anticipate needs without hovering, and solve problems before you realise they exist. The doormen strike that perfect balance between warmth and professionalism that always makes returning guests feel like they're coming home.
Jean-Georges Vongerichten
doesn't attach his name to projects lightly, and The Mark Restaurant showcases why his reputation endures. The menu focuses on European classics with subtle innovations that enhance rather than overshadow. The Mark Bar provides a sophisticated backdrop for evening cocktails, with expertly crafted drinks that showcase both classic techniques and contemporary creativity, served to the who's who of New Yorkers until the early hours each night.
experience first-hand.
The Mark's 106 guest rooms and 47 suites demonstrate Grange's mastery of colour and proportion. Each room feels like a well-appointed private residence rather than a hotel accommodation.
The Mark Penthouse commands attention as North America's largest hotel penthouse, stretching across 10,000 square feet and two floors. Five bedrooms, multiple fireplaces, and a 2,500-square-foot private rooftop terrace create unmatched possibilities for entertaining. The views encompass the Manhattan skyline, providing a perspective of the city that few get to witness and I was honoured to
The Mark New York occupies a prime corner of Madison Avenue and 77th Street, just one block from Central Park. The famed Metropolitan Museum of Art sits seven minutes away on foot. The neighbourhood provides an authentic taste of New York's most exclusive residential area without feeling removed from the city's energy. Tree-lined side streets reveal hidden gems, while Central Park offers immediate access to green space that feels worlds away from Manhattan's intensity.
The Mark New York succeeds because it recognises that luxury should enhance rather than intimidate. Every detail contributes to a sophisticated atmosphere. The property attracts celebrities preparing for the Met Gala as easily as it welcomes families exploring Central Park, demonstrating an inclusive approach to luxury hospitality that feels refreshingly modern. themarkhotel.com
WINTER IS WHERE YOUlook for it
Kempinski’s Aspen Ski Chalet offers an alpine-inspired escape from Dubai's soaring heat
There's something wonderfully surreal about watching skiers carve through fresh powder whilst lounging in your pyjamas in the middle of the Arabian desert.
The Duplex Aspen Ski Chalet at Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates transforms this fantasy into reality, offering what might be the most unique accommodation experience in Dubai. Stepping into the chalet feels like being transported to a ski lodge in the Swiss Alps. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the snowy slopes of Ski Dubai, creating a backdrop worthy of its novelty.
The interior design strikes the perfect balance between rustic alpine charm and contemporary sophistication, with exposed wooden beams, a striking stone fireplace, and plush furnishings that invite you to curl up on after an enduring day on the slope. The duplex layout maximises
the spectacular views whilst providing ample space for relaxation. The lower level houses a spacious living area with comfortable seating arranged to take full advantage of the ski slope vistas. What sets this chalet apart from standard hotel rooms is the sense of being in your own private mountain retreat, complete with all the luxuries one expects from Kempinski.
Upstairs, the master bedroom continues the alpine theme with rich textures and warm lighting.
The seamless connection to Mall of the Emirates means worldclass shopping and dining are literally at your doorstep. What makes the chalet truly special is how it manages to create a complete escape from Dubai's bustling energy whilst
being located in the city centre. The ski slope views could easily overshadow other aspects of the accommodation, but Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates ensures every detail meets their exacting standards. From the Egyptian cotton linens to the premium bathroom amenities, no detail has been overlooked.
The Aspen Ski Chalet represents what makes Dubai special – the audacity to create something completely unexpected and the execution to make it feel effortless. For those who've experienced luxury hotels around the world, this offers something genuinely different.
kempinski.com
Stripes & Sunshine
Inside the Chicest Collaboration of the Season: Jacquemus x Monte-Carlo Beach
Monaco’s legendary MonteCarlo Beach has undergone a striking transformation this summer, as French fashion house Jacquemus unveils The Jacquemus Beach Club, a vibrant pop-up that runs until 7 October. This collaboration between the Provençal designer and MonteCarlo Société des Bains de Mer represents a seasonal takeover that reimagines how luxury fashion and seaside leisure can blend seamlessly together. The partnership marks a significant moment for both brands, bringing Jacquemus’ playful Mediterranean aesthetic to one of the Riviera’s most prestigious destinations. The designer, known for staging spectacular fashion moments in extraordinary locations, has transformed the iconic seaside club into a living, breathing extension of his creative vision.
The Jacquemus Beach Club
has completely reimagined Monte-Carlo Beach‘s most cherished spaces, turning the legendary pier, Pool Café, and surrounding areas into a sundrenched showcase of the brand’s La Croisière collection. Banana yellow sunbeds dot the coastline, while coconut milk and black striped parasols provide shade with a distinctly modern Provençal touch. Plush cushions in the designer’s signature colour palette create intimate lounging areas that feel both luxurious and refreshingly informal.
Every detail, from the placement of furniture to the artistic touches throughout the space, reflects Jacquemus’ ability to make high fashion feel accessible and joyful. The overall effect creates an atmosphere where guests can experience the designer’s world firsthand while enjoying the timeless appeal of Monte-Carlo
Two exclusive Jacquemus boutiques have been created on-site, designed to feel as welcoming as the designer’s own home rather than traditional retail spaces. The boutiques carry the latest Jacquemus collections alongside accessories and limited-edition pieces inspired by the Côte d’Azur.
The Jacquemus Beach Club represents part of a broader movement where luxury fashion houses create immersive seasonal experiences at prestigious beach and pool clubs across Europe. However, this Monaco collaboration distinguishes itself through its commitment to celebrating local culture while maintaining the designer’s distinctive voice.
@montecarlobeach
J1'S FINAL PUZZLE PIECE
INA
DUBAI DEMONSTRATES WHAT MAGIC CAN BE MADE WHEN FIRE AND FLAVOUR MEET.
Stepping into INA Dubai feels like entering a sophisticated sanctuary where rustic charm meets refined elegance. The space immediately captivates with its warm wood accents, thoughtfully curated artworks, and earthy interiors that beautifully honour African heritage. The innovative retractable roof concept truly sets INA Dubai apart – during our visit, the climate-controlled canopy provided perfect comfort while maintaining that coveted outdoor dining atmosphere. The open kitchen design offers front-row seats to the kitchen team mastering the impressive industrial-style grill, where fresh produce awaits its transformation by fire. This theatrical element creates genuine excitement and energy
that builds naturally throughout the evening.
The menu at INA Dubai brilliantly showcases chef Glen Ballis' philosophy of ingredientled cooking, with standout dishes that demonstrate real culinary prowess. The tuna tartare with truffle and potato gratin was exceptional – we could have finished five portions. The fremantle octopus delivered another triumph, with its herb vinaigrette and calamansi creating a bright, refreshing contrast to the expertly charred seafood. The char-grilled asparagus with whipped ricotta and bottarga proved that vegetables can be just as exciting as proteins when treated with this level of creativity. While the grilled medjool date with wagyu ham and manouri cheese didn't suit our palate, it showed INA Dubai's willingness to experiment boldly. The whole
seabream fillet demonstrated excellent technique, while the ribeye showcased quality Australian beef cooked medium-rare to perfection over the open flames. The overall experience confirms that INA Dubai has established itself as a significant addition to Dubai's competitive dining scene. With its unique atmosphere, skilled execution, and commitment to flame-forward cooking, this concept delivers exactly what J1 Beach needed to complete its culinary offerings.
