Million Air Winter 2020

DISCOVER

elite traveler JAN/FEB 2015 ISSUE 1 001

The Suites Issue

THE PRIVATE JET LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE elite traveler POWERED BY

THE MOST OPULENT, FANTASTICAL AND DOWNRIGHT DECADENT TOP 100 SUITES IN THE WORLD

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PRAETOR 600: CERTIFIED OUTPERFORMANCE.

The Praetor 600 — the world’s most disruptive and technologically advanced super-midsize aircraft that leads the way in performance, comfort and technology.

Unveiled at NBAA in October 2018 and now certified by ANAC, FAA and EASA, the Praetor 600 did not just meet initial expectations, it exceeded them. Named for the Latin root that means “lead the way,” the Praetor 600 is a jet of firsts. It is the first super-midsize jet certified since 2014. The first to fly beyond 3,700 nm at M0.80. The first with over 4,000 nm range at LRC. The first with full fly-by-wire. The first with turbulence reduction capability. The first with a cabin altitude as low as 5,800 feet. The first with high-capacity, ultra-high-speed connectivity from Viasat’s Ka-band. And all of this, backed by a top-ranked Customer Support network.

Learn more at executive.embraer.com/praetor600

LEADING THE WAY

BUTLER-STAFFED, PRIVATE LUXURY RESORT WITH THEME PARK ATTRACTIONS

• Thrilling 250 ft-long waterslide with sound and light show • Club 33 craft cocktail and sports bar • Majestic 25 ft-tall Grand Entrance waterfalls • Four heated pools • Three theaters – game room, great room & oceanfront • Three dining areas including Hibachi Cooking • Two hot tub swim up bars • HD game room & Camp COZ play fort • Silhouette dance and karaoke theater • Private jet airport only one minute away • Cozumel International Airport 15 minutes away • Butlers, bartenders, maids, masseuses and private chefs

COZUMEL AND THE PRIVATE PARADISE ALL-ISLAND EXCLUSIVE VACATION CONCEPT

Private Paradise guests are lavished in luxury and pampered by the bespoke service of our butlers, bartenders, maids, masseuses and local celebrity chefs. Jaw-dropping ocean views flood into the living areas, including unimaginable places such as in the shower! Our totally new all-island vacation package concept is designed to give you what you desire before you even know you want it — and not only at Private Paradise, but all around the amazing and ultra-safe Caribbean island, Cozumel. Cozumel is often described as “Heaven on Earth”. It is a very safe and incredibly beautiful Caribbean island with over 300 bars and restaurants on one side and miles of white-sand beaches on the other. Unlike most resorts where guests are encouraged not to leave, our bilingual staff help you see, taste and experience all the finest things that Cozumel has to offer. No one

likes to go to the same restaurant or have the same chef cook for them every night, so we engage the four best local celebrity chefs to prepare their finest dishes for our Private Paradise guests every other night. We also have hard-to-come-by standing reservations at the finest 5-star restaurants on the island, so you can experience being out on the town every other night. privateparadisevilla.com/elite-traveler Purchase and rental inquiries: info@privateparadisevilla.com, +1 610 517 5985 Head over to our Instagram page @privateparadisecozumel

Scan QR code to ride The Penthouse Plummet

elite traveler WINTER 2020/21 15

Welcome

@ELITETRAVELER AROUND THEWORLD After being in-and-out of lockdown for most of the year, the Elite Traveler team is cautiously getting back out there to experience the new normal at hotels and spas, or reminiscing on previous travels and dreaming of future adventures. For daily updates, follow us on Twitter @elite_traveler and on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest @elitetraveler

Well, what an annus horribilis that was. But, as we wind down ahead of the much- needed holiday season and look to the year ahead, I’m allowing optimism and hope to creep in. The New Year brings new perspectives, and I have (as I’m sure many of you have) begun to view life through a different lens, focusing on the really important things. For me, that is time and energy well spent. And that is the theme we had in mind when we created our series of new luxury databases: How to save you time and energy. You already rely on Elite Traveler to provide the most up-to-date and relevant information on the finer things in life, be they hotel suites,

yachts, jets or cars. But how we present this information has perhaps been slightly old-fashioned. So we have revamped how you access this information digitally. The first searchable database we are launching coincides with our featured ranking — the Top 100 Suites. Everyone has a different idea of the perfect stay; for me it’s a king-sized bed to myself with no baby in sight and lying in that bed past 7:01am. For you, it might be a Michelin-starred restaurant on-site, your own butler or far- reaching ocean views. So, in order to make life easier, our new database allows you to plug in your criteria and then out pop the results for all the relevant suites. Whether you’re planning a multigenerational family getaway to South Africa, or a romantic visit for two to Paris, we’ll help you find the top accommodations. Our efforts to save you time don’t stop there — later on in the issue we’re saving time with our top fast jets. These are the jets to jump on when you’re in a rush; they can transport you to your destination in a hair’s breadth of the speed of sound. And our Men’s Watches pages focus on world time watches. You can glance at your wrist and see exactly what time it is for a loved one in Florida when you’re in London for business. In a world that suddenly seems very large, very far away and very disconnected, these marvels bring us all a bit closer. We’re also focusing on craftsmanship and innovation. And that’s something that we can all appreciate — the wonderful uniqueness that human hands can create. Our Object of Desire is a sculpture adorning a bottle of champagne; our Design feature focuses on the gift of giving art; and our Motoring pages take you as far away as you can imagine from a factory assembly line, to the workshops of Ferrari and Bentley. They are ingrained in deep tradition and the magic of human touch — these are the finer details that go into elevating something from the mundane to the truly extraordinary. And that is what our Top 100 Suites do. They take a relatively simple concept of a place to rest your head, and elevate it to something truly exceptional. These suites aren’t just about a night in a hotel; they are an experience in themselves, designed to fulfill your every whim and fantasy. This edition’s Explore section starts with the top hotel buyouts — ideal for the post Covid-19 world, since you can hire these hotels out in their entirety for your friends, family or employees. Whether you’re experiencing a Caribbean island or a chalet in the French Alps, do so in style...and in total, splendid isolation. If the thought of boarding a plane still seems like a world away, jump in your car instead and explore the wilds of Utah with our road trip guide. Wind your way through national parks and desert wilderness, stopping to sample the delights of Sundance’s Park City along the way. Finally, we finish off sipping a glass of champagne in an infinity pool overlooking the Swiss Alps and Lake Lucerne... And breathe...

Samantha Coles marvels at the mystical views over Lake Lucerne from Bürgenstock Resort’s infinity pool in Switzerland.

Thea Halstead walks in the footsteps of King Henry VIII at one of London’s newest boutique hotels, The Mitre Hampton Court.

Kim Ayling experiences a bespoke 24-carat gold facial, designed by Italian skincare wizard Pietro Simone, in one of the Beauty Treatment Rooms at Harrods.

Alex Martin is one of the first guests to stay in the Mayfair Townhouse, a boutique luxury hotel situated in the heart of London’s most exclusive area.

Luke Abrahams soaks up the old-school charm of Grantley Hall. Struggling to find the perfect gift for a loved one? Their jewelry-making experience is truly one of a kind.

KimAyling visits Theo Fennell’s studio and workshop to learn about the skilled craftsmanship behind each bespoke piece of the designer’s jewelry and silverware.

Thea Halstead Head of Luxury, Editor thea.halstead@elitetraveler.com

CONTENTS

One&Only Gorilla’s Nest

Inspire: Top 100 Suites The seemingly untouched wilderness of the foothills of the Virunga Volcano Range, Rwanda, is home to One&Only Gorilla’s Nest. Find out why its Silverback Suite (above) is one of the top suites in the world. Page 56

On the cover The W South Beach in Miami Beach, Florida reopened in November 2020 after a $30m renovation. The renovation includes 408 oceanfront guest suites, the introduction of a best-in-class spa, and a refreshed museum-quality art collection curated by Aby Rosen.

FLIGHT STAFF

MILLION AIR

HEADQUARTERS 7555 Ipswich Road, Houston, Texas 77061 www.millionair.com +1 888 589 9059

Executive Team | Million Air

Chief Executive Officer ROGER WOOLSEY

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Magazine & Special Events millionairmagazine@millionair.com

Marketing & Public Relations

Director of Marketing ALLISONWOOLSEY awoolsey@millionair.com

Marketing & Publishing Operations

SVP, Associate Publisher LORRAINE COUSLAND

ELITE LUXURY PUBLISHING, INC

National Advertising/Editorial Inquiries: +1 713 640 4013

Million Air Magazine is published by Elite Traveler Custom Publishing, 441 Lexington Avenue, New York, NY 10017. © 2020 by Elite Traveler/Elite Luxury Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form, print or electronic, without the express written consent of Elite Traveler Custom Publishing.

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MILLION AIR

Take off Welcome aboard, and welcome to the world of Million Air! According to a Salesforce survey, 80% of customers said that the experience a company provides is as important as its products and services; 72% expect companies to understand their needs and expectations; and 57% have stopped buying from a company because a competitor provided a better experience. It is five times as costly to acquire customers as it is to retain them. That means we cannot afford to lose customers in today’s competitive service provider environment. More than ever, keeping customers is about meeting and exceeding their individual expectations in every aspect of their interface with you. Developing a winning customer relationship strategy means thinking hard about all aspects of customer interactions with the company and everything — people, processes, technology and organizational structure — that underpins them. I have been a pilot for over 35 years, so it is easy for me to put myself in my customer’s shoes. Recently, I flew my Citation to three countries and over a dozen other FBOs, so I am a customer of my competition on a regular basis. I know what it’s like being a pilot and landing at an FBO; and I know what I want and expect when I get there. I closed my eyes and asked myself what I wanted people to see, feel and touch when they are in a Million Air FBO. Then I designed everything in the business to make all of that come true — not just the tangibles, but the interactions, too. What I have learned from my years in the industry is that every customer wants the following five things more than they want a great location or great amenities: a friendly greeting, genuine personal interest in them, a business that makes them feel special, a “my pleasure” attitude and forward thinking. Most important, they want it consistently! Putting you first must be, and is, a way of life at Million Air. We want your travels to and from our facility to be the absolute best possible.

Blue skies and tailwinds…

Roger Woolsey CEOMillion Air ceo@millionair.com

PARTNER WITH MILLION AIR AND REACH THE ELITE Become an exclusive partner of Million Air, North America’s premier private airport terminals. By placing your print ads in Million Air Magazine or displaying your product at one of our 30 terminals, your marketing message will speak directly to an audience of the highest net worth individuals on the planet. We welcome more than one million passengers annually, each with an average net worth of $3.6m. So climb aboard the Million Air Collection and gain a first-class, all-access pass to the world’s wealthiest consumers. For more information contact millionairmagazine@millionair.com

MILLION AIR FLIGHT BRIEFING DALLAS, TEXAS

The beauty of Dallas WITH ITS TRANQUIL GREEN SPACES, BUZZING BUSINESS DISTRICT, INSPIRING CONCERTS AND HISTORICAL LANDMARKS, DALLAS IS UNDOUBTEDLY THE MOST EXCITING CITY IN TEXAS

WHERE TO SLEEP The 2,500-sq-ft Penthouse Loft at The Joule is the perfect suite. With two bedrooms and a den area, you will feel totally relaxed. The Viking kitchen and private terrace also make it a perfect spot for entertaining. While you’re there, take a dip in the truly unique infinity pool on the rooftop — it has a fabulous view of the city skyline. WHERE TO EAT Fearing’s Restaurant has an exquisite menu. Our pick for a starter is Dean’s tortilla soup with south-of-the-border flavorings. Head chef Dean Fearing, winner of the James Beard Foundation Award, is known for his bold American dishes. For the main course try the Dr Pepper–braised short ribs. 2121 McKinney Avenue +1 214 922 4848 fearingsrestaurant.com 1530 Main Street +1 214 748 1300 thejouledallas.com

Fearing’s Restaurant

The Dallas skyline

themselves in a major moment in American history. Visit the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza. An audio tour about the life and presidency of President John F. Kennedy will lead you around the former Texas School Book Depository, central to his assassination. The saying ‘everything is bigger in Texas’ is proven true when it comes to the State Fair of Texas, which attracts the largest attendance of any state fair in the country, with over two million visitors. The famous fair runs each year from late September until mid-October. And finally, you may be in the city but Dallas is also home to some stunning green spaces. We love the 66 acres of beautiful gardens at the Dallas Arboretum. Check out the seasonal calendar for delightful offerings such as live music, cooking demonstrations, art displays and early morning walks.

Dallas is a major business hub in the Lone Star State and the American Southwest — but there is far more to this city than just being home to major Fortune 500 companies such as AT&T and Kimberly-Clark. Begin your exploration of Dallas in the Arts District, home to many activities including the Skyline 360 Tour at the Dallas Center for Architecture. Gather in KlydeWarren Park, a short walk from the historic McKinney Avenue and McKinney Trolley, for a beautiful view of the skyline and information from the experts on what makes each building special. While you’re in KlydeWarren Park, be sure to grab some dishes from the famous Saturday food trucks — our favorites are the Yummy Pizza Truck, as well as the offerings from the Texas Burrito Company. Dallas also gives visitors a chance to immerse

WHERE TO FLY Million Air Dallas has been taking aviation service to new heights for more than 30 years — and the amenities make it more than just another FBO. A high-definition and surround-sound theater make watching a movie before takeoff an experience worth arriving early for. The executive conference room creates the perfect environment to do business, and the crew will enjoy the spacious pilot lounge and flight planning room.

MILLION AIR DALLAS (ADS) Addison Airport 4300 Westgrove Road Addison, TX 75001 T +1 972 248 1600 F +1 972 733 5803 E info@millionairdallas.com millionair.com

The famous Saturday food trucks

Dallas Arboretum

Photos Dallas Convention & Visitors Bureau, shutterstock.com

MILLION AIR FLIGHT BRIEFING WHITE PLAINS, NEWYORK

Suburban paradise WHITE PLAINS IN UPSTATE NEW YORK IS A UNIQUE BLEND OF SMALL-TOWN NICETIES AND BIG CITY LUXURY —WITH ONE OF THE PLUSHEST SHOPPING DISTRICTS OUTSIDE THE BIG APPLE

WHERE TO SLEEP Less than an hour by car from New York City, The Ritz-Carlton, Westchester is a luxurious 146-room haven, tucked away from the noise and lights of the city. The best room in the house is the 1,900-sq-ft Presidential Suite with two sumptuous marble bathrooms. 3 Renaissance Square +1 914 946 5500 ritzcarlton.com

The Ritz-Carlton

WHERE TO EAT If you manage to peel yourself away from the stunning Presidential Suite, reserve a table for dinner at Kanopi restaurant, conveniently located in your hotel. It is worth checking out for the views alone (the enormous windows overlook the city). Chef Anthony Goncalves will take you on a journey to the other side of the world with his Mediterranean-inspired dishes. 1 Renaissance Square +1 914 761 4242 kanopi.world WHERE TO FLY Westchester County Airport, home to Million Air White Plains, is a leader in aircraft maintenance and customer service, with convenient amenities including a hospitality bar, on-site car rentals and a Mercedes-Benz crew car. MILLION AIR WHITE PLAINS (HPN) Westchester County Airport 136 Tower Road, White Plains, NY 10604

White Plains Park

after the former chief executive of PepsiCo. A former polo club, it is now full of sculptures of mermaids, grizzly bears and totems, filling the 168 green acres and making it feel like you stepped into a mystical world. Many of the striking pieces are by notable artists including Auguste Rodin, Henry Moore, Alexander Calder and Alberto Giacometti. To see even more contemporary art, visit the Neuberger Museum of Art. The permanent collection holds more than 6,000 pieces of modern, contemporary and African art, photographs, prints and both indoor and outdoor sculptures. After a day of enjoying the arts, stretch your legs at the Game On Golf Center. The lighted tees and professional lessons make it the perfect place to spend any evening.

The suburban business and art hub of White Plains is conveniently located just a short train or car ride from New York City. It also happens to be the perfect place to do some big-city shopping without having to venture into the hustle and bustle of the Big Apple. The Westchester Mall is a huge 890,000-sq-ft shopping center with 150 luxe retailers including Louis Vuitton, Hugo Boss, Neiman Marcus, Tiffany & Co and Gucci. The White Plains Performing Arts Center is a not- for-profit arts organization that hosts spectacular concerts, musicals, dance shows, and other performing arts. Previous critically acclaimed productions include Les Miserables, The Bodyguard, Sweeney Todd, as well as Disney's Tarzan and The Little Mermaid. Continue your tour of the White Plains arts scene at the Donald M Kendall Sculpture Gardens, named

Mamaroneck Avenue

T +1 914 946 0100 F +1 866 741 0199 E info.hpn@millionair.com millionair.com

The Donald M Kendall Sculpture Gardens

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Private balcony pool

Residents enjoy services only a hotel can offer, including 24/7 room service from Thompson Hotel, an elite spa , a scenic pool deck and cabanas with food & beverage service. With over 50K SF of amenities, condo owners get exclusive access to a 24/7 concierge and valet, private entertainment lounge, indoor pool, helistop and more.

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MILLION AIR FLIGHT BRIEFING TOPEKA, KANSAS

Historic Topeka THE CAPITAL OF KANSAS HAS A RICH HISTORY AND A BUSTLING ARTS SCENE

WHERE TO STAY For a quality stay with luxury amenities, book a room at Hyatt Place Topeka. Conveniently located four miles from downtown Topeka, Hyatt Place boasts a breakfast bar, a 24-hour fitness center, an outdoor pool and 1,200 sq ft of meeting space. A King Room offers a king-sized bed and a media and work center with a 42-inch HD TV. 6021 SW Sixth Avenue +1 785 273 0066 topeka.place.hyatt.com

Kansas State Capitol building

Hyatt Place Topeka

Inner dome of the Kansas State Capitol building

Located along the Kansas River, Topeka began as an important stop on the Oregon Trail before writing a colorful history that helped to shape the cultural and political landscape of the United States, most notably in the landmark case Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka. Today, Topeka continues its symbiotic relationship with government — the state of Kansas and the Kansas State Capitol act as the largest employers in the city. Built in 1866, the Capitol stretches over 20 acres and boasts a 306-ft dome that is reached by climbing 296 steps to the top. Inside, murals by painter John Steuart Curry illustrate scenes fromKansas’s rich history. Not far from the capitol sits the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site. TheMonroe Elementary School building was part of a segregated school system that was taken to court in 1954 in a repeal of the ‘separate but equal’ clause. Now the site features special exhibitions, tours and information on the historic decision. Other educational sites include the Kansas Museum of History, which displays Civil War battle flags, an 1868 stagecoach, a 1950s diner and the Great Overland Station, which serves as a railroad museum

and public center. Topeka also has a bustling arts scene with exciting opportunities for music, theater and visual arts. The Mulvane Art Museum at Washburn University offers guests free admission to exhibits from regional, national and international artists; art lessons and resources; and an in-house complimentary ArtLab for guests to create their own works of art. Exhibitions change throughout the year and an ‘endangered art’ fundraising project was unveiled earlier this year — a rare opportunity to see paintings from theMulvane’s permanent collection that do not usually go on display. The Topeka Civic Theatre & Academy, founded in 1936, is the oldest continuously running community dinner theater in the country and offers a variety of showstopping theater experiences, including the celebrated dinner theater that promises visitors a delicious meal with the show. Budding thespians can enroll in the academy classes —a variety of workshops designed to teach students all they need to know to be successful performers. Summer camps are also available for youths aged 4 to 17.

WHERE TO EAT An innovative restaurant concept housed in a quaint Topeka brownstone, RowHouse Restaurant is a must-try. The gourmet food and friendly staff have made it a local favorite. The menu changes weekly, and entrées range from beef tenderloin served with kale chimichurri to seared salmon with

a rich lemon-garlic aioli. 515 SW Van Buren Street +1 785 235 1700 rowhouserestaurant.net

WHERE TO FLY Located at Forbes Field in Topeka, Million Air Topeka is a top-of-the-line FBO with more than enough space for luxury-minded travelers. The airport is the base for two military units, including the Kansas Air National Guard, so it is equipped with three large corporate hangars, which also provide overnight space. Other facility services include a quiet room and Jet-A-Way Café.

MILLION AIR TOPEKA (FOE) Forbes Field Airport 740 SE Airport Drive, Suite 10, Topeka, KS 66619

T +1 785 862 0950 F +1 785 862 4045 E info.foe@millionair.com millionair.com

House of Representatives chamber of the Kansas State Capitol building

Have a healthy journey with all precautions taken to the finest detail for your in-flight safety. FLY SAFE FEEL SECURE

Please visit turkishairlines.com to learn more about our travel standards and other details.

elite traveler WINTER 2020/21 18 Contents

42 Chopard’s stunning celestial pendant is just one of the heavenly beauties to be discovered on our jewelry pages

Discover 29 Object of desire Yayoi Kusama collaborates with Veuve Clicquot 30 Motoring Bespoke creations from Ferrari and Bentley 32 Yachts Travel to New Zealand to watch the America’s Cup in style

Influence 48 The interview Adam Brown, founder of upscale resort clothier Orlebar Brown, on starting over 50 The voyager Meryanne Loum-Martin lauds Marrakech as the ultimate bohemian- cosmopolitan destination 52 The voyager Yiqing Yin discovers an authentic way of life in Tinos

34 Aviation The ACJ320neo has enough space for a home cinema 35 Design The expert curators at Saatchi Art solve all your gift-giving issues 36 Wine and spirits BowmoreWhisky and AstonMartin come together to create the Black Bowmore DB5 1964

38 Men’s watches World time watches that show the time in the world’s 24 different zones at a glance 40 Women’s watches Romantic moonphase complications conjure mystery and intrigue 42 Jewelry Celestial bodies inspire these fine jewelry creations

44 Destination style Chamonix isn’t just about exceptional skiing — the hotels, spas and restaurant scene are all out of this world

50 Meryanne Loum-Martin can’t live without her Hermès foulards

30 The new Bentley Bentayga features

52 Yiqing Yin sports Vacheron Constantin’s Égérie Moon Phase watch

new interior delights and an exterior refresh

Discover the Path Less Taken DISTINCTIVE ARCHITECTURE, RESIDENCES & HOMESITES GOLF CLUB • TENNIS • BEACH CLUB • EQUESTRIAN

WINDSORFLORIDA.COM • 772 388 8400 OR 800 233 7656

20

elite traveler WINTER 2020/21

112 Step back to the 1930s at Alcron Hotel’s signature restaurant in Prague

Contents

elitetraveler.com

Inspire 56 Top suites Synonymous with luxury, the 20th edition of our Top 100 Suites list showcases accommodations that are jam-packed with extravagant amenities, incredible features and standout service 86 Top jets The business jets pushing the boundaries of speed, and the developmental aircraft that will be achieving supersonic flight in the near future

Explore

98 Top hotel buyouts

124 Property Escape the winter with these beach houses, or embrace it in all its alpine snowy glory in these mountain retreats 128 Flight of fancy Raise a glass in an infinity pool above the clouds in Switzerland

The epitome of privacy and luxury, our selection of the most impressive hotel buyout options 108 Destination guides Whether you’re road- tripping through Utah or lapping up culture in snowy Prague, look no further than our guides 116 The hot list A three-day golf immersion program at Scottsdale National (right), teeing off in Uruguay and a jewelry

Elite Traveler ’s Top Suites Database The newly launched Top Suites database is the definitive tool for researching the best hotel accommodations on the planet. Constantly updated throughout the year, and presented alongside stunning behind-the-scenes images, descriptions and luxury rankings, the database lets you search for your next hotel stay using over 60 different criteria including size, bedroom number, privacy and access. Elite Traveler Launches Top Jets Database An authoritative and extensive database of current private jet models on the market enables you to search using over 50 luxury data points such as interior length, cabin volume, landing distance, range and number of passengers to choose the perfect jet model for your traveling needs.

master class in one of England’s finest hotels

56 Magnificent views from the Three Bedroom Royal Mountain Villa at Oman’s Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort

— A contrast to the world outside.

Antima is a family-run property developer with Norwegian roots.We design and build houses that feel like homes.

We believe a home should be somewhere you feel at ease from the moment you walk in.Where everything from the interior, to the smell and the feeling of your feet touching the floor should make your shoulders drop a few inches.

All our projects are sold in turnkey condition. Fully furnished inside and out, with complete interior design and tailored fittings.

antimahomes.com

elite traveler WINTER 2020/21 22

Contributors

London

Minneriya National Park, Sri Lanka LUKE ABRAHAMS Journalist

ALEX MARTIN

Web editor

When Alex isn’t out running ultra marathons and triathlons, and heading out on 100- mile bike rides, he can be found running Elite Traveler online. Due to his enthusiasm for whisky, Alex is also our wine and spirits expert. His poison is a whisky sour and, in this issue, he delves into an interesting partnership between two powerhouses in their respective industries,

As a seasoned travel editor and journalist, Luke Abrahams knows his way around some of the world’s most exceptional hotels, villas and private islands. His work has appeared in Harper’s Bazaar , Elle and Condé Nast Traveler . In this issue, Luke rounds up the hotels and resorts that have started offering exclusive use in response to Covid-19. His favorite place is anywhere in Italy. p98

Aston Martin and Bowmore Whisky. p36

France ORLA PENTELOW Journalist

Orla Pentelow’s words have appeared in Vogue and The Telegraph , and in this issue she explores the night sky and the jewelry houses that reimagine celestial bodies in some of their most iconic pieces. Orla is a keen skier and can often be found carving powder during the ski season. Her preferred destination for on-and- off-piste adventures is Méribel, France. p42

Tinos, Greek Island YIQING YIN Designer

Yiqing Yin, a visionnaire haute couturist (one of the youngest members to join the esteemed Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture) heads to the Cycladic island of Tinos. The island is a source of magical inspiration for her, and she spends her time exploring the pretty villages, hiking, diving and hunting for fresh urchins: “The real feast is to savor this regal meal directly on the cliffs. But don’t be greedy; take only what you need.” p52

Words Samantha Coles

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THE PRIVATE JET LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE elite traveler

EDITORIAL Head of Luxury, Editor Thea Halstead thea.halstead@elitetraveler.com

ADVERTISING Sales Director Jiggs Patel jiggs.patel@elitetraveler.com EASTERN US/MIDWEST/CARIBBEAN Regional Advertising Director Corey Zaretsky corey.zaretsky@elitetraveler.com

Managing Editor Samantha Coles samantha.coles@elitetraveler.com

Web Editor Alex Martin alex.martin@elitetraveler.com Design Editor Sophie Killip Senior Digital Writer Kim Ayling

WESTERN US/CANADA/HAWAII Regional Director Tiffany H Carey tiffany.carey@elitetraveler.com EUROPE/MIDDLE EAST/AFRICA

Contributing Timepiece Editor Roberta Naas Contributing Motoring Editor Alexandra Cheney Chief Sub-Editor Patti Stallard Group Art Director Henrik Williams Designer David Cooper

Account Director Marina Khachatouri marina.khachatouri@elitetraveler.com Business Development Director Karan Kohli karan.kohli@elitetraveler.com Business Development Manager Eishah Sulaiman eishah.sulaiman@elitetraveler.com MEXICO Director General Jerry Landress jrlandress@earthlink.net Marketing Director Armando Figaredo afigaredo@cabovision.tv ITALY Media Representative Ferruccio Silvera ferruccio@silvera.it INDIA Media Representative Vimal Anand vimal@gmnindia.com THAILAND/LAOS/CAMBODIA/MYANMAR Media Representative Laurent Malespine laurent@dontblink.co.th

CONTRIBUTORS Luke Abrahams, Ricardo Bessa, Ellie Brade, Adam Brown, Dave Higdon, Meyanne Loum-Martin, Orla Pentelow, Jeff Poe, Holly Rubenstein, Shaun Tolson, Yiqing Yin MARKETING/CIRCULATION Senior Vice President, Associate Publisher Lorraine Cousland lorraine.cousland@elitetraveler.com Circulation Director Randy Silverman randy.silverman@elitetraveler.com EVENTS Global Head of Events Emily Mincer emily.mincer@ns-mediagroup.com

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WHERE ORDINARY IS IMPOSSIBLE

The greatest of them all. Waldorf Astoria NewYork is an icon of timeless glamour, where spirits and expectations are higher. Now, for the first time, you can live this legacy. Elegant residences and epic amenities elevate the everyday to the unforgettable.

New studio to penthouse condominiums priced from $1,700,000

waldorftowers.nyc | +1 212 872 1259 | @waldorfnyc | #WaldorfTowersNYC Exclusive Marketing and Sales Agent: Douglas Elliman Development Marketing Imagery by Bruno Aveillan

THE COMPLETE OFFERING TERMS ARE IN AN OFFERING PLAN AVAILABLE FROM SPONSOR (AB STABLE LLC). FILE NO. CD18-0101. Equal Housing Opportunity. Waldorf Astoria is a registered trademark of Hilton International Holding LLC, an affiliate of Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc. (together with its affiliates, “Hilton”). The residences are not owned, developed, or sold by Hilton and Hilton does not make any representations, warranties or guaranties whatsoever with respect to the residences.The developer uses the Waldorf Astoria brand name and certain Waldorf Astoria trademarks (the “Trademarks”) under a limited, non-exclusive, non- transferable license from Hilton.The license may be terminated or may expire without renewal, in which case the residences described herein will not be identified as a Waldorf Astoria branded project or have any rights to use the Trademarks.

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DISCOVER

Ferrari F8 Spider The new F8 Spider reimages the marque’s two- seater Berlinetta — a fitting homage to the most powerful, and some might say most iconic, V8 in the Prancing Horse’s history. Page 30

Page 29 Object of Desire Yayoi Kusama’s signature polka dots, as well as a whimsical floral sculpture, adorn a bottle of Veuve Clicquot La Grande Dame 2012. Page 36Wine & Spirits The Black Bowmore DB5 1964 is a striking concept that marries icons of whisky and motoring — Bowmore Whisky and Aston Martin. Page 38 Men’s Watches These visually intriguing watches enable you to view the time anywhere on the globe at a glance.

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Ref. TV - Tourbillon Souverain Vertical tourbillon with constant force remontoire and deadbeat second Manual winding movement in 18K rose Gold, Geneva made

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Object of Desire by Samantha Coles

LA GRANDE DAMES Known for her avant-garde work (she’s been dubbed the ‘Princess of Polka Dots’), Yayoi Kusama is a celebrated Japanese contemporary artist, perhaps best-known for her kaleidoscopic installations and larger-than-life sculptures. In a partnership with Veuve Clicquot to mark the house’s newest vintage, La Grande Dame 2012, Kusama has created a limited-edition gift box of the champagne that features her signature polka dots, as well as a whimsical floral sculpture. The piece, entitled My Heart That Blooms in the Darkness of Night , was custom-made to wrap around the magnum bottle. A tribute to nature, the playful sculpture has ornate, blooming flowers and tentacle-esque leaves, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy. It took over 250 hours to create, and only 100 are available — and only by request. The vintage itself has been created in honor of Madame Clicquot, a trailblazer who stormed the industry with her bold moves as a female entrepreneur in the early 1800s. Despite the two visionary women being separated by over 150 years, this is not the first time they have collaborated: In 2006, Kusama reimaged a portrait of Madame Clicquot using her iconic polka dots for a charity auction in Tokyo. La Grande Dame 2012 $195, sculpture $30,000, veuveclicquot.com

One day, after gazing at a pattern of red flowers on the tablecloth, I looked up to see that the ceiling, the windows, and the columns seemed to be plastered with the same red floral pattern. I saw the entire room, my entire body, and the entire universe covered with red flowers, and in that instant my soul was obliterated and I was restored, returned to infinity, to eternal time and absolute space. This was not an illusion but reality itself. YAYOI KUSAMA

Above and right Yayoi Kusama’s opulent flower creation wraps La Grande Dame 2012 Magnum; celebrated contemporary artist Yayoi Kusama

Photos © Yayoi Kusama / Courtesy of Veuve Clicquot

DISCOVER

by Alexandra Cheney Motoring

Picture an assembly line, machines swiftly moving parts down it until a fully realized car emerges. For this duo of manufacturers, that couldn’t be further from the process. Imbued with a sense of tradition and respect for the quality of design, hand finishes, bespoke paints and a merging of craft and technology, assembling these machines requires decades of knowledge as well as human hands

Ferrari F8 Spider Technological Craftsmanship

All images Ferrari F8 Spider

Ferrari’s willingness to tap into history as a road map for its future begets an unparalleled level of expertise. Take Maranello’s newest mid-rear-engined car, the F8 Spider, which reimages the Prancing Horse’s two-seater Berlinetta. To the uninitiated, this architecture is an homage to the most powerful V8 in Ferrari history. It’s also a favorite, debuting in 1975 with the 308 GTB and adopted for the GTO and F40, arguably the beginning of Ferrari’s supercars of the 1980s. Among enthusiasts, iconic may be too weak a word. Throughout four decades, the Italians have been finessing; the resulting F8 Spider and its hardtop sibling, the F8 Tributo, are the most aerodynamically efficient series-production mid-rear-engined Berlinettas. Optimal weight balance comes standard, as does 710-horsepower. As European emissions restrictions tightened, Ferrari artfully pivoted, adding a new Gasoline Particulate Filter. The F8 Spider’s subsequent exhaust notes range from a deep timbre to a dulcet sigh. Perhaps the most significant example of technological craftsmanship comes by way of the S-Duct, or how Ferrari forces air through the car. Gleaning the S-Duct from the storied Ferrari F1 racing program (and the 488 Pista) moves the air intakes from the flanks to the rear. They now sit on either side of the blown spoiler. Merging past and present, the redesigned spoiler wraps around the tail lights. Looking forward, its shape produces greater airflow to the engine, which means increased power and dynamic pressure. Simultaneously returning to the classic twin light cluster and body-colored tail provides allusions aplenty to the early eight-cylinder Berlinetta’s. From $297,250, ferrari.com

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elite traveler WINTER 2020/21

The new Bentayga isn’t a fresh debut, but rather a mid-cycle redux. Done well, the art of the refresh allows manufacturers a subtle flex versus a splashy launch, a perpetual refining and redefining of an automobile that demonstrates thoughtful evolution and exudes excitement. Consider this: Bentley launched the somewhat delicate but wholly deliberate Bentayga in 2015. The SUV now accounts for 45 percent of the British brand’s global sales. An undeniable game changer for the 100-year-old coachbuilder, demand steadily continues. Its successor, the new Bentayga, adds interior delights and an exterior refresh to the 4.0-liter, twin-scroll turbocharged V8. From the 14 hides of leather used to upholster the redesigned seats, which feature hand cross-stitching and seat micro-piping, to the addition of two veneer options of Hawaiian Koa and Crown Cut Walnut, bespoke detailing remains at the core of Bentley Bentayga Modern Civility

Bentley’s interior design language. The Naim for Bentley audio system thrills, delivering 1,780W of power to 20 speakers with eight listening modes. Pushing the confluence of luxury and utility, the new 542-horsepower Bentayga offers eight drive modes, four on-road and four off-road, although it’s probably best to keep those stately 22-inch wheels on pavement — marrying mud with deep woolen floor mats will surely have regrettable consequences. Unlike some manufacturers that merely introduce a racing stripe or a smattering of new colors to their mid-cycle refreshes, Bentley altered every single panel, from the new matrix grille, across the longer side vent, to the lattice-patterned elliptical taillights. There’s undeniable purpose and an intriguing duality in the new Bentayga. From $177,000, bentleymotors.com

From top Bentley Bentayga; the elegant interiors with hand cross-stitching

DISCOVER

Yachts by Ellie Brade

The America’s Cup will be held in Auckland, New Zealand in March 2021

There is no sporting event more prestigious or historic than the America’s Cup, and for those able to travel to New Zealand in March 2021 for the 36th edition of the ‘Auld Mug,’ there is so much to see and do in between race days. With racing running from March 6 to March 21, Auckland’s waters will be busy, welcoming plenty of superyachts and passionate sailing fans. Expect fast-paced action on the water, with five teams battling it out on foiling monohulls over five courses, with vibrant Auckland as the backdrop. Take your pick from some luxury highlights taking place around the Cup and make the most of New Zealand. LUXURY THRILLS AT THE AMERICA’S CUP

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Clockwise See Auckland from above by helicopter; aerial view of Somewhere; Atelier Nash’s private wine experience; harbor views from the Park Hyatt Auckland

ESCAPE TO SOMEWHERE For those looking for some downtime between races, an escape to a villa called ‘Somewhere’ in the stunning Bay of Islands archipelago is luxury in its purest form. With six bedrooms and three private beaches, Somewhere is located in a secluded private inlet. Arrive by seaplane, helicopter or yacht, and immediately relax and soak up the views across the ocean. Host a beach party for friends, or enjoy local activities such as incredible fishing and diving. From $13,300 per night. Contact Jacqui Spice, founder and managing director, info@touchofspice.co.nz, +64 3450 0855, touchofspice.co.nz

FINE WINE Atelier Nash’s private fine wine experiences are a must-do during the America’s Cup. Spend a few hours or all day enjoying an entertaining, storytelling experience of New Zealand’s best wines alongside some of the greatest wines from around the world. There are options to host events at Atelier Nash’s downtown tasting rooms, in your private yacht or residence, or even to visit the wine estates by helicopter. Bespoke experiences on request. Contact David Nash, founder, david.nash@ateliernash.co.nz, +64 2124 64497, ateliernash.co.nz

FLY HIGH Helicopter specialist Heletranz offers a variety of experiences in Auckland and around New Zealand, including one-of-a-kind heli-fishing and heli- dining adventures. Enjoy champagne and canapes in the VIP lounge while viewing the America’s Cup action on television screens, before taking to the skies in a helicopter from Heletranz’s luxury fleet to watch all the racing from a scenic helicopter flight in — arguably — the very best seat in the house. From $695 per person, minimum six people. Contact Sofia Ambler, owner, sofia@heletranz.co.nz, +64 9415 3550, heletranz.co.nz

VIEWS ACROSS THE BASE One of New Zealand’s newest luxury hotels, the Park Hyatt opened in September 2020. The hotel’s 2,637-sq-ft Presidential Suite delivers sweeping views across Waitematā Harbour, and across to the Emirates Team New Zealand base and Prada Race Village. The suite has a private garden, full personal gym and the biggest hotel balcony in Auckland, making it the ultimate base for immersing yourself in all the activities of the America’s Cup event. From $6,600 per night. Contact auckland.park@hyatt.com, parkhyattauckland.com

DISCOVER

elite traveler WINTER 2020/21 34 Aviation by Samantha Coles

Head over to elitetraveler.com to see our extensive database of private jets on the market. Search using over 50 data points, such as interior length, cabin volume, landing distance, range and number of passengers to choose the perfect jet model

The 'Melody' concept cabin is inspired by the color palette and shapes seen in nature

Suite in the sky

While there are certainly a number of luxurious private jets on the market, the Airbus ACJ320neo takes it up a notch. The aircraft is based on the A320neo (a passenger plane used by major airlines around the world) but modified for private use. The result? The ACJ320neo is twice as wide as traditional business jets and has the tallest cabin in the industry, resulting in three times more cabin space than its competitors. With such an abundance of space, there’s plenty of room to play with: The ‘Melody’ cabin concept has a kitchen, master lounge with a sofa and conference/dining area, home cinema, anteroom, and a master suite with sofa and bathroom. It is more akin to a stylish apartment, and the cabin can be configured to your preferences. This concept is inspired by the seamless shapes and color palette seen in nature: Think forest greens, neutral tones, curved walls and fixtures, and hexagonal light displays. The areas harmoniously flow from one ‘room’ to the next, and the layout is equipped for long-haul flights — which is just as well, as the aircraft can fly nonstop from London to Beijing; Moscow to Los Angeles. And thanks to the CFM LEAP-1A engine (you can choose between this or the Pratt &Whitney PW1100G engine), there is a 15 percent improvement in fuel efficiency and also a 15 percent reduction in CO2 emissions. $110m, airbus.com

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Design by Samantha Coles THE ART OF GIVING

As the holiday season is upon us, it brings with it that old unanswerable question: What do you get the person who has everything? Enter Saatchi Art. The world’s largest online art gallery and a leader in online art buying, the company already offers an at-home art advisory service, as well as an art subscription where an expert curator adds a new original piece to your personal collection every month for a year. It now offers a unique collection of bespoke gifts created by the gallery’s most popular independent artists. The available gifts include a photoshoot with fine art photographer Xan Padrón, renowned for his Time Lapse series of images that capture people passing in front of a well-known location (Padrón sits unnoticed in a single spot for two hours to get the shots). He will scout the area of your choosing to find the perfect location, and photograph you and up to six friends or family members. Another choice is a striking mural by acclaimed street artist Bollee Patino: He can design and paint an artwork on an interior or exterior wall of your choice, turning a blank canvas into a unique piece of art. A Saatchi art curator and Patino will work with you to develop a conceptual plan; he will then visit your home to bring the vision to life and create a one-of-a-kind mural. If you’re after a different kind of mural, consider sprucing up an athletic court with a vibrant painting. William LaChance, an acclaimed painter whose bold and striking works have been featured in Architectural Digest and Vogue , will create a one-off design for a tennis or basketball court. Photoshoot with Xan Padrón from $20,000, Mural by Bollee Patino from $15,000, Athletic court mural by William LaChance from $75,000, +1 877 485 1199, saatchiart.com Top left, right Bollee Patino Beyond the Bridge and Be Yourself Right William LaChance’s bold design on a basketball court