Elite Traveler Spring 2025
Animated publication
SPRING 2025
The Adventure Issue
MARATHONS ON ICE, AROUND-THE-WORLD VOYAGES, A SUBORBITAL FLIGHT AND THE ULTIMATE ADVENTURE CHARTERS
cd: ROBB AARON GORDON
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elite traveler SPRING 2025 17
Welcome
Adventure is not just about trying something new. It’s about the thrill of pushing beyond what you thought was your limit, embarking on a daring experience, stepping into the unknown or having a profound and moving experience.
Elite Traveler around the world For daily updates, follow us on Twitter @elite_traveler and on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest @elitetraveler
Alex Martin takes a swing at theSnow PoloWorld Cup inSt Moritz Pg68
In this issue, we compile the greatest adventures on Planet Earth. Think: a conservation-focused experience in Montana, a marathon through the North Pole and even a suborbital space fl ight. If an adventure on the high seas is more your thing, Miriam Cain looks at the yachts available to charter in a handful of hard-to-reach places — such as DuniaBaru , a 167.4-ft phinisi schooner that cruises through Indonesia’s thousands of islands, and Scintilla Maris , a 149.7-ft custom-designed, hybrid-powered expedition yacht that can explore the Norwegian fjords in all their glory. If you are chartering a yacht this spring, you need to dress the part. Turn to pg 45 to get fully decked out. And if you’re after a watch that can keep up with your adventure of choice, head to pg 48 for the timepieces that can easily withstand adrenaline-pumping sports. One such watch is the Panerai Submersible GMT Titanio Mike Horn Experience Edition watch (PAM01670). It was built for explorer Mike Horn when he needed something that would meet his extreme needs: “They made watches for me that would not freeze. They developed oils that wouldn’t freeze, watches that would become navigational instruments on my journeys. I only take one watch with me, and it needs to be able to do what I need,” he tells Roberta Naas on pg 58. In our Explore section, we compile the hottest new hotel openings (and their top suites) to add to your wish list — from a barefoot reserve in the Maldives to a cli ff retreat in Grenada. Nicole Trilivas discovers the new Ra ffl es Jaipur is not explicitly showingo ff (like its grand sibling, Ra ffl es Udaipur) but is still mighty impressive: It is “built like the private quarters of the maharani instead of the bombastic majesty required for the maharaja.” As ever, we close this issue with our Flight of Fancy on pg 144 — a private viewing of Palio di Siena, an annual horse racing event that has taken place in Siena, Italy, since the 13th century and marks one of the most important cultural events in the country’s calendar.
KimAyling tries on a few fabulous pieces from Lugano Diamonds Pg60
TobyLouch explores the waterways of Cambodia and Vietnam Pg 130
Rhubarb and Penny test out the facilities at LoumaFarm &Retreat— coming soon in the Summer issueof Elite Traveler
Samantha Coles Editor samantha.coles@elitetraveler.com
THE ORIGINAL INFLUENCER
Vehicle shown: 2025 Range Rover. © 2025 Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC
CONTENTS
Inspire: Top Adventures From swimming with dolphins in the pristine Indian Ocean to undertaking an ice-cold marathon in the North Pole, we bring you the most awe-inspiring experiences from around the globe Page 6 8
On the cover STEWART FEREBEE, TRUNK ARCHIVE
Photo Willyam Bradberry / Shutterstock.com
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elite traveler SPRING 2025 24
Contents
Discover 41 Object of desire Go below the ocean’s surface inside Triton’s new submersible — customcon fi gurations allow for a poker table, a bar or even a wedding set-up. 42 Cruises Got a taste for adventure? Discover the best adrenaline-pumping cruise itineraries for the year ahead. 45 Style Yachting is a lifestyle, not a pastime; we round up the best looks to set sail instyle.
Influence 58 MikeHorn Explorer Mike Horn has solo-expeditioned in some of the harshest climates in the world. He tells Roberta Naas what keeps him going.
48 Watches Heading into the
unknown? You’ll need a timepiece that can keep up. Roberta Naas rounds up the best performance watches. 50 Jewelry From compass medallions to Treasure Island brooches, these glittering pieces celebrate the wonder of travel. 53 Motoring Rory FH Smith heads to South Africa to test the mettle of the new Land Rover Defender OCTA.
6 0 Craftsmanship A relative newcomer in the world of fi ne jewelry, Lugano Diamonds has been doing things di ff erently since 2004. Founder Moti Ferder explains how. 6 2 Behindthe scenes Sonoma winery to see how its prized wines are created. 6 4 Craftsmanship One of Italy’s best known jewelry brands, Roberto Coin has been crafting exquisite jewels for decades. Roberta Naas takes a closer look. Elin McCoy visits Aperture Cellars’
53 The new Land Rover Defender OCTA
Photos Nick Dumbleby, David Shepherd
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Enchanted Evenings Barcelona to Rome
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Additional itineraries to choose from.
Additional itineraries to choose from.
Additional itineraries to choose from.
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Crystal is a masterclass in all-inclusive luxury, where every journey is defined by elegance, comfort, and world-class dining. • Dine at UMI UMA, the only Nobu at sea , featuring Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s signature Japanese-Peruvian cuisine. • Enjoy Michelin-starred Bee fb ar , o ff ering global street food-inspired dishes, premium beef, seafood, and plant-based options. • Stay in five-star luxury suites attended by personal butlers. • Experience Broadway-themed performances curated by Tony Award winning producers. CRYSTAL: CRADLES OF BEAUTY & CULTURE
Oceania Cruises invites travelers to explore the untamed beauty of Alaska , unveiling a world far beyond the typical tourist attractions. • Experience breathtaking landscapes, from soaring glaciers to pristine wilderness. • Choose from a range of itineraries departing from Seattle , Vancouver , and Anchorage . • Each voyage blends iconic sights with hidden gems. • Immerse yourself with visits to Native tribe sites, national parks, wildlife encounters, andmore.
Explorer’s Alaska Whittier to Vancouver Aboard Riviera 8 Days | May 21, 2025
Europe & Mediterranean Athens to Athens Aboard Crystal Symphony 8 Days | August 2, 2025 Europe & Mediterranean Rome to Marseille Aboard Crystal Symphony 11 Days | October 21, 2025
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Gems Of The Last Frontier Seattle to Seattle Aboard Riviera 12 Days | July 17, 2025
Additional itineraries to choose from.
Additional itineraries to choose from.
28 elite traveler SPRING 2025
elitetraveler.com Six Senses Crans Montana: A Bond worthy slopeside escape Six Senses Crans-Montana is perfectly positioned to capitalize on the resort’s charm. Perched slopeside next to one of the resort’s main gondolas for seamless ski-in-ski-out access, the luxury hotel is just a ten minute walk from the village town of Crans below. Elite Traveler ’s favorite hotels of the year “Where’s the best place you’ve ever visited?” is a question the Elite Traveler team gets asked a lot. And rightly so — we are fortunate enough to say our jobs take us to some special locations. While narrowing down an all-time favorite is a tricky task, as 2024 drew to a close, we re fl ected on our favorite hotels of the year.
Inspire 6 8 Top Adventures Elite Traveler ’sTop Adventures caters to even the most adrenaline-hungry travelers — from fl ying fi ghter jets to a North Pole marathon. 102 TopYachts Miriam Cain dives into the wild side of yachting with this year’s round up of top yachts — as well as where to charter them.
Explore
130 The Journey Join Toby Louch on a
114 TopSuites Even the most discerning of travelers are enticed by the thrill of newness. We bring you the top openings of the last 12 months (and a few still to look forward to), and the suites you need to book. 124 NewHotels Nicole Trilivas checks in atRa ffl es Jaipur — an intentionally understated opening from the famously lavish brand. 12 6 Destination Guide Combining pristine natural landscapes with a thriving luxury hospitality scene, Costa Rica continues to beckon. Emma Reynolds o ff ers her top tips.
journey through southern Cambodia and Vietnam’s meandering waterways aboard Aqua Expeditions’ Aqua Mekong . 134 HotList John O’Ceallaigh explores two need-to-know travel trends — the great rail revival and journeying to the extreme ends. 140 Property Ellys Woodhouse shares the best real estate on the market right now, including a branded residence in NYC and a design-led apartment in London. 144 Flight of Fancy We leave you with a private viewing of Palio di Siena — a centuries-old horse race in Siena’s main square.
Anantara Palais Hansen Vienna: A journey back intime
Newly refurbished by the Asian hotel group and neatly bridging the gap between past and present, Anantara Palais Hansen Vienna gives us everything we want — and more — on a visit to the city of Mozart, Klimt and Cinderella balls.
102 SeawolfX ishighly sought after for cruising the South Paci fi c this summer
Photos Stevie Mann, Stuey Burnett
NEW SECRETS OF ANCIENT EGYPT
A ROYAL EVENING WITH
For decades, I’ve shared Egypt’s history with the world, but now I’m bringing you discoveries that no one has heard of yet! We’re in a golden age of excavation and revelation, and now is the moment to unveil the deepest secrets. The biggest revelations of the year await you on the Grand Lecture Tour in 2025. This royal evening will be one to remember! Dr. Zahi Hawass
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elite traveler SPRING 2025 32
Contributors
RORY FH SMITH Writer and creative producer
Our Spring issue’s motoring feature comes courtesy of motorsport and travel expert Rory FH Smith, who takes us along the red dirt tracks of South Africa’s Cederberg Mountains behind the wheel of the new Land Rover Defender OCTA. As he discovers on his route from Cape Town to Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve, the latest iteration of the Defender “rides e ff ortlessly over the rough roads, ruts and stray rocks, laying down its power without so much as a twitch.” Home for Smith is London, but you’ll usually fi ndhim out on assignment, with his stories gracing the pages of HTSI , Wallpaper and Tatler ; this year’s travels will see him head to the mountains for some ice-driving — “I love to drive in the most remote corners of the world, like the Wild West wilderness of Utah or the Scottish Highlands, and even the Arctic Circle.” His favorite ever destination, though? That title goes to Japan. “I did a road trip from Osaka to Tokyo via the Japanese Alps. I’ve yet to fi nd any landscapes,
TOBYLOUCH Lifestyle feature writer
A member of the Elite Traveler team since 2022, Toby Louch joined the team after completing his master’s in magazine journalism at Nottingham Trent University, before which he worked as a chalet host in Val d’Isere — as good a preparation as any for a career in luxury travel writing. Louch recently traded the bright lights of London, where he had lived for three years, for the peaceful surrounds of his childhood home: Derbyshire, a serene county in England’s heart. While city life was more about cocktail bars and lavish dinners, a move to the countryside involves more long runs and wholesome pub visits — a rite of passage in the UK. In our Spring issue, Louch makes his way over to Vietnam with Aqua Expeditions for a cruise along the vast Mekong River aboard the purpose-built Aqua Mekong : “With a capacity of only 40 guests, there’s a one-to-one guest-to-crew ratio, ensuring service across the vessel’s three decks remains on par with some of the fi nest hotels anywhere in the world.” Pg 130, elitetraveler.com
EMMA REYNOLDS
Editor and writer
food or roads that top it.” Pg 53, roryfhsmith.com
A member of the in-house Elite Traveler team many moons ago, New York based Emma Reynolds now gallivants around the world in a freelance capacity, with her words appearing in the likes of Business Insider , Marie Claire and House Beautiful . While most trips are in the name of work, her next vacation is strictly personal: “I'm skiing in Courchevel this winter with a dear group of friends. I've skied most of the US and Canada and am excited to experience Les Trois Vallées for the fi rst time.” Reynolds’ beat is broad and encompasses wine and spirits, fashion, real estate and design, but for this issue, she has her travel hat fi rmly on. On page 126, she ventures down to Costa Rica for a deep-dive destination guide. As she puts it: “There are few countries on Earth that prioritize environmental stewardship and protect biodiversity and cultural heritage while o ff ering fabulous eco-conscious accommodations that allow global travelers to share in the beauty. Costa Rica, however, is a rare gem that embodies this delicate balance.” Pg 126, emmareynolds.com
Words Kim Ayling
Law partner . Second-generation immigrant . Art benefactor .
Your unique life, planned. A law partner, inspired by her grandmother’s artistry, establishes a charitable trust to share origami with a new generation and keep the cra ft alive for many more to come. Backed by sophisticated resources and a team of specialists in every fi eld, a Raymond James fi nancial advisor gets to know you, your passions, and everything that makes your life uniquely complex. That’s Life Well Planned.
©2025 Raymond James & Associates, Inc., member New York Stock Exchange/SIPC. ©2025 Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Raymond James® and LIFE WELL PLANNED® are registered trademarks of Raymond James Financial, Inc.
EDITORIAL Editor Samantha Coles samantha.coles@elitetraveler.com
ADVERTISING Group Sales Director Jiggs Patel jiggs.patel@elitetraveler.com Executive Vice President, Multimedia Corey Zaretsky corey.zaretsky@elitetraveler.com Vice President, Sales & Multimedia MarcRossi marc.rossi@elitetraveler.com
Editor-in-Chief Alex Martin alex.martin@elitetraveler.com
Deputy Editor KimAyling Creative Director Ella Danson Lifestyle Feature Writer TobyLouch
Sales Director Stephanie Tseng stephanie.tseng@elitetraveler.com US Sales Agent Diane Ciaglia diane.ciaglia@elitetraveler.com US Sales Agent Ashley Rogers ashley.rogers@elitetraveler.com Lifestyle Assistant Phoebe Sebring phoebe.sebring@elitetraveler.com EUROPE/MIDDLE EAST/AFRICA
Digital Writer Ellys Woodhouse Social Media Editor Grace Taylor Contributing Timepiece Editor Roberta Naas Chief Sub-Editor Patti Stallard Group Art Director Henrik Williams Designer David Cooper
CONTRIBUTORS Miriam Cain, Kate Evans, Rory FH Smith, Becca Hensley, John O’Ceallaigh, Emma Reynolds, Nicole Trilivas
Sales Director Anit Mistry anit.mistry@elitetraveler.com Business Development Director Karan Kohli karan.kohli@elitetraveler.com Director of Business Development Eishah Sulaiman
PUBLISHING & MARKETING EVP & Associate Publisher Lorraine Cousland lorraine.cousland@elitetraveler.com Director, Experiential Juliana Fitzpatrick juliana. fi tzpatrick@elitetraveler.com CIRCULATION Circulation Director Randy Silverman randy.silverman@elitetraveler.com
eishah.sulaiman@elitetraveler.com EMEA Sales Agent Stefan Behmer stefan@discerningmedia.com
For editorial inquiries, please contact editorial@elitetraveler.com
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Evolution Aboard Quasar Expeditions M/V Evolution , aship thatholds 32 guests, you’ll anchor at the Galapagos’ smaller islands, where the big ships can’t dock, and view creatures that only exist in this geographical zone Pg 42
Page 41 Object of desire Descend into the deepest ocean for the most unique game of poker. Page 45 Style Sailing this spring? Dress the part withe ff ortless elegance. Page 48 Watches Whether you’re a seasoned diver, a fearless climber, a dedicated triathlete or a motorsport enthusiast, there’s a watch to suit your adventure. Page 50 Jewelry Embrace designs that re fl ect the boundless freedom of travel. Page 53 Motoring Rory FH Smith takes the Land Rover Defender OCTA through its paces in South Africa.
Photo Ty Newcomb
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elite traveler SPRING 2025 41
Object of desire By Samantha Coles
Maybe you’ve discovered the wonders beneath the surface with a few spectacular dives, or perhaps you’ve already descended into the deepest ocean in a submersible. No matter how many times you venture, though, it’s always mind-blowing to uncover another world. Triton’s newest model, the 660/9 AVA, provides a remarkable view to everyone on board — the modular interior of the submersible means that eight guests can sit alongside each other in comfort (there’s integrated lighting, AC andahigh- fi delity surround audio system) while enjoying 360° panoramic views. The con fi guration on board means that the sub can be used as a ‘venue’ — Triton suggests a casino setup for some deep-sea poker, or a bar for the world’s deepest martini. There’s even the option to use the sub as a wedding venue. The 660/9 AVA is the world’s fi rst free-form acrylic pressure hull submersible. It can reach depths of 660 ft, plus the design provides superior situational awareness for the pilot thanks to the wraparound view through the acrylic pressure hull. Scheduled maintenance, rolling repairs and con fi gurations can all be made at sea, too. $6.35m, tritonsubs.com INTO THE DEEP
Photo Nick Verola
DISCOVER
ADVENTURE AT SEA There’s an itch for adventure that comes with the newyear. While a bold spree with a hint of edgy danger might de fi ne an out-of-the-ordinary expedition for some, a softer exploit might easily do the trick for others. With that in mind, cruises o ff er stirring itineraries with adrenaline-surging activities that run the gamut from o ff roading in Abu Dhabi’s Al Khatim Desert and snorkeling with frisky sea lions o ff the Galapagos’ most obscure isles to indulging in alfresco spa treatments on a secluded beach. IN THE STEPS OF PIRATES AND DARWIN Darwin called the Galapagos “a little world within itself.” Indeed, what you’ll fi nd on a cruise that skirts the equator, some 600 miles o ff Ecuador’s coast, is something palpably otherworldly. Aboard Quasar Expeditions M/V Evolution , a yacht-sized ship that holds 32 guests, you’ll drop anchor at the famed archipelago’s smaller islands, where the big ships can’t dock. At sea, far from urbanity, you’ll view creatures that only exist in this geographical zone. Su ff used in the quietude of this serene locale, you may fi nd nature guiding you to your own inner landscape, to the very depths of your soul. Expect to swim with feisty sea lions and penguins, snorkel above hammerhead sharks, witness the blue-footed boobies in their archetypal mating dance, and peer hypnotically at the seemingly in fi nite horizon. Dates throughout the year. From $9,500 per person, quasarex.com elite traveler SPRING 2025 42 by Becca Hensley Cruises INDIA BY LAND AND RIVER: TAJ MAHAL, SAFARIS AND THE BRAHMAPUTRA With National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions, a cruise line renowned for its pioneering jaunts into remote expanses and its long-held reverence for sustainable travel, you can immerse yourself in India’s mythical glamour during 18 days by land and at sea. Accompanied by an expert expedition team,
At sea, far fr om urbanity, you’ll view creatures that only exist in this geographical zone including a naturalist and photo instructor, wanderlusters can undertake Jeep safaris through Bandhavgarh and Kaziranga national parks to gaze upon rare species — such as the Asian one-horned rhinoceros, Asian elephants and the elusive Royal Bengal tiger — not to mention photograph abundant birdlife. As mariners on Charaidew II , the newest charter ship to join the National Geographic-Lindblad Expedition fl eet, you will traverse the lesser-traveled Assam region, explore Kolkata and swoon over prime sites such as the Taj Mahal. March 19-April 5, 2026. From $21,608 per person, world.expeditions.com GRAND CONTINENTAL SOJOURN Take a pleasure-packed foray that incorporates 51 ports — and just as many adventures — on board Regent Seven Seas Cruises Seven Seas Navigator . The 84-night Grand Continental Sojourn, an adventure in
itself for its global scope, takes sailors from Barcelona to Sydney. As you fl oat, you’ll have the opportunity to trek on a moonscape at Timanfaya National Park on Lanzarote in the Canary Islands, shoot through the Indian Ocean’s Mayotte Lagoon in a swift Zodiac boat, spy monkeys and exotic birds in Gambia’s bushland, and spin through dunes that ascend 1,000 ft toward the sky in Abu Dhabi’s ancient desert. October 31, 2025-January 23, 2026. From $48,299 per person, rssc.com
Photos Ty Newcomb, Assam Bengal Navigation, Graham Copeland
REDISCOVER MAUI’S MAGIC Dive into the rejuvenated splendor of Maui at Th e Ritz-Carlton. We are ready to welcome you to our beachfront escape in Kapalua.
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elite traveler SPRING 2025 45
Men’s Style By Ella Danson
From the golden age of the Riviera to modern superyachts gliding through the Mediterranean, yachting has always had an e ff ortless elegance —where fl owing silk kaftans and impeccably tailored linen shirts transition from sun-drenched afternoons on deck to elegant cocktails under the stars. Whether you are basking in the Italian summer sun of the Amal fi Coast or sailing across the seas watching the endless horizon, make sure you do it in style. DECKEDOUT
Listed by collection: LoroPiana Ra ff aele shirt in linen (Pastel Musk Strips), $975; Bay swim shorts in micro fi ber (Royal Blue), $525, loropiana.com Brunello Cucinelli Mr Brunello horn sunglasses, $2,709, shop.brunellocucinelli.com Patek Philippe Aquanaut Chronograph Ref. 5968G-001 in white gold, £67,010 (approx. $83,709), patek.com Louis Vuitton binoculars, $8,600; Cotteville Lunettes see-through red, $27,500; louisvuitton.com Leica M11 with protector and strap in Cognac, $9,465, leica-camera.com Photos Lucia.Pinto/Shutterstock
DISCOVER
by Ella Danson Women’s Style elite traveler SPRING 2025 46
Listed by collection: Pucci Marmo-Print silk kaftan, $3,790; Orchidee-Print swimsuit, $530; pucci.com Messika Imperial Move Tie necklace with 9.03 carats diamonds in 18K yellow gold, $54,820, available at Messika boutiques Hermès Cabas Tressage bag in horsehair and Barénia calfskin, $32,800; Squeeze beach towel, $740; hermes.com Dr Barbara Sturm Sun Drops SPF50, $160, drsturm.com Chanel Handboard – Coco Beach 2025, $6,350, available at select Chanel boutiques nationwide
Photos Valentina Celeste, Olivier Bravo Photographe, Hermes/ Studio des Fleurs
LET US
STAY WITH YOU
The most elevated expression of Miami
® .
The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach has defined sophistication with accommodations and food and beverage experiences that pay tribute to the vibrant culture, colorful history and glamour of Miami. The Ladies and Gentlemen of The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach look forward to being your gracious host to the most alluring city in America. www.ritzcarlton.com/southbeach
©2024 The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C.
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elite traveler SPRING 2025 48
Watches By Roberta Naas
BUILTFOR THERUSH
OMEGA The fi rst Seamaster Diver 300M, released in 1993, marked Omega’s return to the world of diving and its iconic legacy in the 1960s and ’70s. Today, the brand is actively involved in underwater e ff orts, and partners with the GoodPlanet Foundation to protect the oceans. Thewatch Omega Seamaster Diver300M Techspecs 42mm stainless steel with titanium bezel; 300-meter water resistant; helium escape valve at 10 o’clock; Co-Axial Master Chronometer Need to know The watch is inspired by the Seamaster Diver 300M 007 Edition, which was worn in the James Bond fi lm No Time to Die . The mesh bracelets are the same style featured in the Bond watch Price $6,500, omegawatches.com
Adventure is no longer just for explorers — for many with active interests, it is fast becoming a way of life. Adventure is also a benchmark for innovation in watchmaking, as brands create timepieces that can withstand adrenaline pumping sports. Whether you’re a seasoned diver, a fearless climber, a dedicated triathlete or a motorsport enthusiast, there’s a watch built to match your high-adrenaline passions. Many brands also go beyond watch innovation and aesthetics by partnering with elite athletes, racing teams and other organizations — underscoring their commitment to being on the pulse of the action with both performance and style.
HUBLOT Hublot partners with Alan Roura, the Swiss professional sailor who has sailed the Vendée Globe (a solo, nonstop, round-the world race) as well as other grueling excursions. With this partnership, Hublot becomes the boat and team for the IMOCA ocean races and underscores its return to water watches. Thewatch Hublot Big Bang Unico Sailing Team Techspecs 42mm carbon fi ber case; 100-meter water resistant; Hublot Unico self-winding chronograph movement; 100 pieces limited edition Need to know The Big Bang is created in black and yellow, the same colors as Roura’s IMOCA boat — it’s also a nod to the fi rst Hublot watches made in yellow gold with black rubber straps Price $25,200, hublot.com TAGHEUER As of this year, TAG Heuer has reinforced its historic relationship with Formula 1 racing and is now the O ffi cial Timekeeper of the sport. TAG Heuer released the original Formula 1 watch in 1986, in bold colors, as the fi rst series to carry the TAG Heuer name instead of just Heuer. Thewatch TAG Heuer Formula 1 Chronograph Techspecs 44mm black DLC titanium case; black aluminum tachymeter bezel; Caliber 16 chronograph movement Need to know The new watches are inspired by F1 cars and carry a theme of ‘Grand Prix by night,’ blending dark tones with vivid bursts of color Price $4,900, tagheuer.com
Photo rs.solutions
LIVE WHERE YOU LOVE TO DREAM
HOTEL - INSPIRED LIVING, WHERE DREAMS COMETRUE
Proposed new development by HHR FSO Land LLC; artist concept rendering, all improvements are proposed and subject to change. Not all improvements shown are proposed as part of the proposed Four Seasons Private Residences Orlando.
A NEW LUXURY PRIVATE RESIDENCES OPPORTUNITY IS NOW SELLING AT GOLDEN OAK AT WALT DISNEY WORLD ® RESORT
With a collection of nine boutique homes and 31 luxe residences in a single, elevated address, the proposed Four Seasons Private Residences Orlando development will welcome you to discover hotel-inspired living. Prices start at +$5 million.
LEARN MORE OR REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT AT ORLANDOPRIVATERESIDENCES.COM
EXCLUSIVE SALES AND MARKETING AGENT
The new Four Seasons Private Residences Orlando at Walt Disney World ® d Resort are proposed to be developed by HHR FSO Land LLC (“Developer”), as Florian Park Condominium (“Condominium”). ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS, MAKE REFERENCE TO THE PROSPECTUS (OFFERING CIRCULAR) AND TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE.
These materials do not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy to residents of any jurisdiction where prior qualification is required unless the Developer has previously met such qualifications or exemptions are available. Image is an artist’s conceptual rendering. The improvements are not yet built, and all improvements are proposed only and subject to change or cancellation without notice. Developer makes no guarantees or representations that the proposed improvements will be built, or, if built, that they will be the same or similar to those depicted. Not all improvements or property depicted are proposed as part of the Condominium or developed by Developer, and Developer makes no representations regarding same. Refer to the Prospectus and its exhibits for correct representations regarding the proposed Condominium improvements. Four Seasons Private Residences Orlando are not owned, developed or sold by Four Seasons Hotels Limited or its affiliates (Four Seasons). The Developer uses the Four Seasons trademarks and tradenames under license from Four Seasons Hotels Limited. The marks “FOUR SEASONS,” “FOUR SEASONS HOTELS AND RESORTS,” any combination thereof and the Tree Design are registered trademarks of Four Seasons Hotels Limited in Canada and U.S.A. and of Four Seasons (Netherlands) Ltd. elsewhere. Developer makes no representations as to the Condominium’s continued affiliation with Four Seasons. In addition to the purchase price and associations’ assessments, purchasers of Four Seasons Private Residences will pay fees for access to and use of certain amenities and services of Four Seasons Resort Orlando and must maintain membership in, and pay fees and charges in connection with, the Golden Oak Club. Services and amenities are subject to change and termination and may be subject to availability, rules and requirements. Developer is not the owner or operator of the Golden Oak Club and makes no representations regarding same. Theme park admission is not a part of the home purchase and is sold separately. See OrlandoPrivateResidences.com for full detail and additional disclosures. NEW YORK RESIDENTS: THE COMPLETE OFFERING TERMS ARE IN A CPS-12 APPLICATION AVAILABLE FROM THE OFFEROR. FILE NO. CP24-0068. CALIFORNIA RESIDENTS: WARNING: THE CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF REAL ESTATE HAS NOT INSPECTED, EXAMINED, OR QUALIFIED THIS OFFERING. MASSACHUSETTS RESIDENTS: THIS CONDOMINIUM HAS BEEN REGISTERED WITH THE MASSACHUSETTS BOARD OF REGISTRATION OF REAL ESTATE BROKERS AND SALESPERSONS F-1297-01-01 Equal Housing Opportunity. ©Disney
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elite traveler SPRING 2025 49
BREITLING Since 2021, Breitling has been the o ffi cial luxury watch partner of the famed Ironman race. In December 2024, the Endurance Pro Ironman 70.3 World Championships took place in Taupo, New Zealand, with competitors tackling a course that included a 1.2-mile swim in one of the world’s largest freshwater akes, a 56-mile bike course and a 13.1-mile run. Thewatch Breitling Endurance Pro Ironman 70.3 World Championship Taupo Techspecs 44mm Breitlight case; 100-meter water resistant, COSC-certi fi ed chronograph; solar compass Need to know Breitlight is 3.3 times lighter than titanium, is thermally stable and nonmagnetic Price $3,600, breitling.com S p 2 C w 1 l T
Adventure is also a innovation in watchma create timepieces tha adrenaline-p
a benchmark for aking, as brands at can withstand pumping sports
BELL&ROSS Founded in 1992, Bell & Ross quickly built its reputation for its designs inspired by aviation instruments and for crafting watches for pilots. Its iconic BR-01 released in 2005 brought the ‘circle within a square’ design concept to the forefront. Thewatch Bell & Ross BR-03 Horizon Techspecs 41mm micro-blasted black ceramic case; automatic movement; anti-re fl ective sapphire crystal; 999 pieces Need to know The watch re-creates one of the most iconic dashboard fl ight instruments, the arti fi cial horizon, for the wrist. In the center, an aircraft appears with wings represented by two red lines Price $4,900, bellross.com
ULYSSE NARDIN Ulysse Nardin supports One More Wave (OMW), a nonpro fi t organization dedicated to assisting wounded or disabled veterans by providing them with custom sur fi ng equipment and connecting them to a community of sur fi ng volunteers, so these veterans can experience the therapeutic bene fi ts of sur fi ng and camaraderie. Techspecs 44mm black DLC titanium; 300-meter water resistant; caseback with OMW logo Need to know The watch is by members of One More Wave with Ulysse Nardin Price $11,600, ulysse-nardin.com Thewatch Ulysse Nardin Diver Chronometer One More Wave
MONTBLANC Montblanc has been involved in mountain climbing since 2018, a natural for a brand named for a mountain. Among its collaborations is one with Reinhold Messner, one of the most well-known high-altitude mountaineers in the world and the fi rst to climb all 14 ‘eight thousander’ peaks, as well as the fi rst to climb Mount Everest without supplemental oxygen. Thewatch 1858 Geosphere 0 Oxygen Chronograph Techspecs 44mm titanium case; automatic chronograph with world time indication; northern and southern hemisphere globes; red sfumato glacier dial; 290 pieces Need to know Montblanc developed the 0 Oxygen concept wherein the movement is cased so that no oxygen gets in — eliminating fogging and oxidation. The watch uses oils that perform at temperatures as low as -50° Fahrenheit Price $10,000, montblanc.com
Photo Franz J. Venzin
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elite traveler SPRING 2025 50
Dior This stunning Dior Fine Jewelry Rose des Vents Medallion in 18-karat gold with diamonds and a mother-of-pearl background sets the course for adventure thanks to its compass rose motif. $5,550, dior.com
Jewelry This spring, embrace designs that reflect the boundless freedom of travel. Picture a pendant necklace evoking the shimmering South Seas or adorned with a compass rose, guiding your wanderlust. Set sail aboard a clipper ship, navigating by starlight and moonbeams, or wander to distant lands steeped in the mystique of Egypt and India. These creative jewels aren’t just accessories — they’re an invitation to embark on your own personal odyssey. BOUNDLESS FREEDOM by Roberta Naas
Jonathan Joseph Rosse In this turquoise and yellow-gold Scarab pendant from Jonathan Joseph Rosse (JJR), the claws and medallion are set with 5.95 carats fancy intense yellow round brilliant-cut diamonds. $148,500, jrosse.com
Mikimoto This stunning Mikimoto Baroque 18-karat white gold South Sea Pearl Pendant conjures images of the South Seas. The necklace features a 22mm white South Sea Baroque cultured pearl, with
Chopard The sky’s the limit with this Happy Diamonds Planet bracelet from Chopard. The cosmos-inspired bracelet is crafted in 18-karat rose gold and features a joyful dancing diamond and a lapis lazuli Earth. $4,030, chopard.com
strands of diamonds weighing 4.69 carats adorning it. $82,000, mikimotoamerica.com
Verdura Part of Verdura’s Night & Day collection, this ‘day’ ring is a tribute to Cole Porter, known for the song of the same name as the series. The 18-karat gold world map ring features grass green enamel and showcases the globe by day. It is complemented by a ‘night’ ring in blue enamel with diamonds. $13,500, verdura.com
Van Cleef & Arpels Sail the Seven Seas while wearing this Hispaniola clipper ship clip. Part of the Treasure Island collection, the brooch is made of 18-karat white and rose gold and set with diamonds. Price on request, vancleefarpels.com
Photo Steven DeVilbiss
GHOST S E R I E S I I
A distinguished masterpiece, designed to exhilarate, Ghost Series II is the most technologically advanced and driver-focused V12 powered Rolls-Royce ever created, cra ft ed for those who embrace each day in full color.
www.rolls-roycemotorcars.com
© Copyright Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC 2025. The Rolls-Royce name and logo are registered trademarks.
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by Rory FH Smith Motoring
OCTA conquers The Cape: Land Rover Defender OCTA
It’s stupid o’clock on Cape Town’s Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, and it sounds like the entire population of South Africa’s songbirds have amassed outside my hotel window. While it’s an early wake-up call by anyone’s measure, it’s necessary considering the enormity of the task that lies before me. Alongside the birds lie a fleet of matching Faroe Green-colored Land Rover Defender OCTAs — the marque’s latest and greatest iteration of the mighty Defender — and I’m responsible for driving one more than 500 miles across some of South Africa’s most challenging terrain and delivering it back in one piece. Simple. While the OCTA’s name doesn’t necessarily scream speed, given its ambition is to be the world’s fastest off-roader, it does hint at the car’s hardiness. The OCTA abbreviation is taken from the octahedral shape of a diamond, which is “the hardest and most desirable mineral on Earth,” as Land Rover reinforces. Packing a BMW-sourced 4.4-litre twin turbo V8, the OCTA has a limited top speed of 155 mph and can hit 60 mph from standing in just 3.8 seconds, which is the same as a Ferrari F50, to put things in perspective. While there are sizeable changes under the hood, thankfully, Land Rover’s engineers have
Town and onto the corrugated dirt tracks that lead through the Cederberg Mountains and up through the red rock of the Matjiesrivier Nature Reserve. The OCTA rides effortlessly over the rough roads, ruts and stray rocks, laying down its power without so much as a twitch. When provoked, however, there’s a reassuring wiggle from the rear on loose gravel surfaces, but it’s nearly impossible to dislodge the OCTA completely. Unlike the boisterous 5.0-liter supercharged V8 engine that went before it, the new BMW-derived unit is much more grown-up in the way it delivers power, despite there being 626 hp onoffer.
paid particular attention to the underpinnings to ensure it puts all that power to good use. Under the subtly revised bodywork sits the OCTA’s secret sauce — its trick 6D Dynamics air suspension system. While the name refers to the six degrees of axis a rigid body can move in a 3D space, it essentially all boils down to a suspension system that can miraculously wipe out any pitch and roll under cornering, accelerating and braking, keeping the OCTA level and, more important, its occupants emotionally stirred but not shaken. It’s something I’m particularly grateful for once we step off the beautifully laid road surface leading out of Cape
Packing a BMW-sourced 4 . 4 -liter twin turbo V 8 , the OCTA has a limited top speed of 155 mph and can hit 6 0 mph fr om standing in just 3 . 8 seconds, which is the same as a Ferrari F 50 , to put things in perspective
Photo Nick Dimbleby
to toggle through the driving modes, from Comfort to Dynamic and, ultimately, OCTA mode. In this, the car becomes a different beast altogether when pushed to its limits. In OCTA mode, the car’s hardware and software work together to read the road, identifying rough surfaces by monitoring suspension movements and responding accordingly, meaning the OCTA is always ready for the next corner or crest. The system sets up the car beautifully, priming the 6D suspension system to take the strain and move on to the next challenge within a split second. In practice, it means the OCTA defies its 5,533-lbs weight and size on impossibly narrow tracks and corners. The beating this car can take is remarkable, particularly when it can switch back into Comfort mode seamlessly and pull away like nothing ever happened. Reassuringly, the OCTA lives up to its diamond-derived name. With an all-too-brief overnight stay at the stunningly remote Bushmans Kloof, I’m back on the road early the following morning, heading south for Cape Town once more. Beating down more rough, smoky-red colored, iron-rich roads, I’m reminded that there’s more to our trip than just a jaunt through some of South Africa’s greatest wilderness. Kicking off 2025 with a bang, Land Rover announced the road-going OCTA would provide the foundations of the marque’s entry into the Dakar and FIA World Rally Raid Championship in 2026. Given the race claims the egos and even lives of entrants, our time in South Africa is pretty much preseason training for the car before its race-ready sibling takes on the challenge of a lifetime. Before then, there’s still a chance for the non-racing drivers among us to claim their own OCTA, even if it’s a good $120,000 more than its more pedestrian diesel Defender sibling. With most OCTAs destined for a manicured life on the road, the hardest thing for any owner will be resisting the urge to take off at every possible occasion. From $179,500, landroverusa.com
Much of that is to do with the clever stability control software on board but also to the optional chunky Goodyear tires, which give the OCTA incredible levels of grip on all surfaces. Aside from performance, they contribute to the OCTA’s threatening stance, particularly when twinned with the 20-inch forged alloy wheels. Except for the upgrades in each corner, Land Rover’s styling team resisted the urge to go too far on the exterior styling, but the chopped carbon fiber trim, 28mm raised ride height, 68mm stance (wider than previous iterations) and blistered wheel
arches are just enough to signal to those in the know that you’re driving something pretty special. Which is just as well, given the Edition One (limited to the first production year only) weighs in at £160,800 (approx. $199,000), while the ‘regular,’ non limited edition OCTA retails for £145,300 (approx. $179,500). On approach to our overnight stay at the Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve, there’s a chance to test out the OCTA’s performance credentials on the rough, rutted roads. With the touch of the translucent button towards the bottom of the steering wheel, it’s possible
Photo Nick Dimbleby
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