Million Air Winter 2024/25

The Suites Issue PRESENTING THE TOP 100 SUITES IN THE WORLD FROM A SPRAWLING RIAD TO A SKY-HIGH PENTHOUSE

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elite traveler WINTER 2024/25 41

Welcome

What is it that you look for in a hotel suite? Is it fl amboyant yet chic decor by a renowned designer? Or perhaps some mind-blowing amenities like an in-suite spa or fi nding your bedroom 16-ft under water? Maybe you’re looking to get as o ff -grid as you can possibly get on this planet and head into a futuristic camp on the seventh continent. Or, you might be looking beyond what the suite

Elite Traveler around the world For daily updates, follow us on Twitter @elite_traveler and on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest @elitetraveler

Alex Martin dictates

proceedings at the Elite Traveler giftguide photoshoot

itself is and are more interested in what experiences come with it — from Rolls-Royce transfers to a custom fi reworks display over your massive in fi nity pool. Whatever you are looking for, you’re sure to fi nd it in our Top 100 Suites list on page 94. As it’s the season for giving, we’ve curated our gift guide on page 69 — bursting with divine goodies, from sparkling diamonds to sleek accessories to top-shelf bottles. If you’re in the market for a slightly bigger toy, Natasha Bird takes Aston Martin’s new Vanquish for a spin, and Becca Hensley investigates a new cruise ship where you can purchase a home on board for a life at sea. Our In fl uence section nods towards the party season, too, with two features centered around champagne — Emma Al-Mousawi visits Ruinart’s cutting-edge new maison while Grace Taylor heads to Paris to celebrate a special (and delicious) milestone with Krug. Skiers, snowboarders or those who just love a bit of après — head to page 154 for our in-depth guide to St Moritz. If you’d rather spend days at sea, our Hot List deals with two exciting voyages — Kim Ayling and I sail the Med on board The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s latest vessel, while John O’Kelly has a profound experience on board Four Seasons Explorer Palau. We also look at two interesting new openings — the Regent Santa Monica Beach and Eriro in Austria.

KimAyling sets sail on TheRitz Carlton Yacht Collection’s latest launch, the790-ft Ilma

Natasha Bird gets behind thewheel of thenew Aston Martin Vanquish

Samantha Coles Editor samantha.coles@elitetraveler.com

Grace Taylor heads to Paris for a special afternoon with Krug

SUPERMOON DESIGN GIAMPIERO TAGLIAFERRI

MINOTTIBYDDC.COM

Discover: Gift Guide Frommagni fi cent watches to glittering jewels, stylish accessories and the latest in beauty and wellness — our meticulously curated gift guide has plenty of inspiration for the holiday season Page 6 9

On the cover yonikamoto/ Shutterstock.com

Photo Mitch Payne

Join the World of Panerai

66 MV Narrative is a residential community at sea

elite traveler WINTER 2024/25 46 Contents

Discover 6 1 Object of desire Bar carts are on a roll — some are even fi nding a permanent home on the high seas.

Influence 84 The big interview Ellys Woodhouse discusses tapping into the dreamworld with Laguna Beach-based designer and goldsmith Adam Neeley. 8 6 Craftsmanship Grace Taylor travels to Paris to discover the inner mechanics of Krug’s time-honored Single Ingredient culinary program. 88 Behind the scenes Emma Al-Mousawi journeys to Ruinart’s French home to unearth

6 2 Motoring Natasha Bird takes us for a spin along Costa Smeralda’s generous, empty straights in the new Aston Martin Vanquish.

6 4 Yachts The most important room on board a yacht is the owner’s suite — Miriam Cain looks at the yachts taking things to new levels. 66 Cruises Storylines introduces MV Narrative, a fi rst-of-its-kind residential community at sea.

6 9 GiftGuide Our annual gift guide returns and is once again fi lled with glittering diamonds, outlandish timepieces, the fi nest spirits and more.

the story behind the oldest champagne house’s newly redesigned home.

84 Adam Neeley’s dreamlike jewelry

8 6 Beetroot risotto by Enrico Bartolini artolini

6 2 Aston Martin Vanquish

Photos Max Earey, Sara Rey Photography

1 66 Snorkelling in Palau

48

elite traveler WINTER 2024/25

Contents

elitetraveler.com Patek Philippe unveils the new Cubitus collection The news of a new piece from luxury horolo gy stalwart Patek Philippe is an important moment; an entirely new collection is a special moment indeed. The Cubitus collection is just that: Patek Philippe uncovers a series of watches that will undoubtedly enter the classic timepiece canon. Bowmore marks 250 yearswith brand overhaul Heritage runs deep in the identity of Bowmore, the longest-standing licensed producer on Islay, a weather worn island o ff Scotland’s west coast. However, as a new generation of whisky drinkers comes of age, evolution becomes a necessity. Behind the scenes At Révélations 2024 (a gathering of journalists, creators, sommeliers and esteemed friends), chef de cave Vincent Chaperon shares the philosophy behind Dom Pérignon vintages with Elite Traveler ’s Ellys Woodhouse. with the man behindDom Pérignon

Inspire 94 Top 1 00 Suites Bond villain-esque lairs in the Namibian desert, New York City’s most sought-after penthouse and the very rooms Winston Churchill himself worked in — it could only be Elite Traveler ’s Top 100 Suites. 141 TopJets Faster, further and completely connected: the newest and the best jets.

Explore

1 66 HotList A tale of two boats: John O’Kelly heads to Palau on board Four Seasons Explorer ; Kim Ayling sails along the French Riviera with The Ritz-Carlton

154 Destination Guide The snowy peaks of St Moritz call; Emma Al-Mousawi shares her toptips. 158 The Journey Becca Hensley joins Abercrombie & Kent on a completely exclusive immersion into the secrets of ancient Egypt. 1 6 2 NewHotels Nicole Trilivas heads to a nine-suite escape in the Tyrolean Alps and Andrew Harris checks in at the Regent Santa Monica Beach.

Yacht Collection. 172 Property The best real estate

opportunities from Oakley founder James Jannard’s former Beverly Hills pad to Charles Dickens’ London summer home. 17 6 Flight of fancy Enjoy a glass of champagne in a not-for public-access section of theEi ff elTower.

94 The Penthouse at Claridge’s, London

Photos Yeo Eng Hwee

MILLION AIR FLIGHT BRIEFING ORLANDO, FLORIDA

A thrilling ride THE THEME-PARK MECCA OF ORLANDO IS ONE OF THE MOST POPULAR DESTINATIONS IN THE US

WHERE TO SLEEP Nestled within the gates of Walt Disney World Resort, Four Seasons is a secluded lakeside retreat just minutes from downtown Orlando. With a combination of adult-only spaces as well as family-friendly areas, there is something for everyone. Book the Grand Suite, which boasts a generous open-plan living/dining area and 250-sq-ft balcony with views over the lakes, golf course and Walt Disney World — perfect for entertaining. 10100 Dream Tree Boulevard, +1 407 313 7777, fourseasons.com

Epcot at Walt Disney World Resort

WHERE TO EAT No matter where you are in the world, nothing says luxury like Ritz-Carlton, and that rule holds true in Orlando, thanks to The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes. Amid all the regality, it’s Highball & Harvest that demands your attention. The farm-to-table restaurant serves Southern-inspired dishes, with ingredients sourced from the resort's organic garden, and delicious craft cocktails. 4012 Central Florida Parkway, +1 407 393 4422, grandelakes.com WHERE TO FLY A proud member of the Orlando Sanford International Airport team, Million Air Orlando is located just a short drive from downtown Orlando, University of Central Florida, Cape Canaveral and, of course, the beach, o ff ering line support, catering services and much more to our Sunshine State visitors.

Situated among the expansive orange groves of central Florida, in just a few short decades Orlando grew from a charming Southern town into one of the most visited destinations in the United States. The warm hospitality and similarly pleasant climate surely have a lot to do with its rapid growth, but the primary catalyst has unquestionably been the amazing theme parks that call the city home. Walt Disney World Resort continues to lead the way, as it has every year since opening in 1971, with a seemingly in fi nite array of attractions and accommodations. It is a must-see for every visitor to the area, regardless of age or interest, as is Universal Studios Orlando, which has challenged the Disney-led hierarchy with

legitimate nightlife options such as CityWalk and their ever-growing fantasy kingdom, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. For an equally out-of-this-world experience, make sure to visit Kennedy Space Center, the famed NASA launch site that has been used for every NASA space fl ight since 1968. And while much of the space center iso ff -limits to civilians, the facility o ff ers plenty for the non-space-bound as well, with an in-depth visitor complex that allows for the exploration of some of the US’s most revered achievements in the fi eld, such as the Space Shuttle Atlantis and the Hubble Space Telescope Theater. In addition, the center o ff ers a variety of interactive experiences, including the opportunity to have lunch with an astronaut. Of course, Orlando has a rich culture of its own, especially in the city’s famed Church Street Station. Packed with great restaurants, shopping and classic Southern charm, the Church Street Station and its surrounding areas o ff er something for every interest and attitude, with nightlife that is vibrant and youthful. But there are also plenty of options for those seeking mellower relaxation, such as The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art — featuring the world’s most comprehensive collection of Louis ComfortTi ff any works — and a trove of great golf courses, including Shingle Creek Golf Club, which has been called one of the best golf courses in Florida.

Kennedy Space Center

MILLION AIR ORLANDO (SFB) Orlando Sanford International Airport

2841 Flightline Avenue Sanford, Florida 32773 T +1 407 585 6300 F +1 407 585 6318 E info.sfb@millionair.com W millionair.com

Photos Don Riddle Images

FLIGHT STAFF

MILLION AIR

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

Executive Team | Million Air

Chief Executive O ffi cer ROGER WOOLSEY

Social Media and Special Projects Manager JORDAN SANDERS jsanders@millionair.com

Magazine & Special Events millionairmagazine@millionair.com

Marketing & Public Relations

Chief Branding O ffi cer ALLISON WOOLSEY awoolsey@millionair.com

Marketing & Publishing Operations

SVP, Brand Marketing & 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. © 2024/2025 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

Takeo ff

Welcome aboard, and welcome to the world of Million Air! As we wrap up 2024 and prepare to enter a new year, it’s the perfect time to re fl ectonour accomplishments and identify opportunities for improvement. The new year is not only a time to realign and set new goals, but also to express our gratitude for the hard work and dedication that have brought us here. First and foremost, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the incredible team of ladies and gentlemen at Million Air. You have upheld our core values of trust, honesty, respect and integrity, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to living the Million Air brand. Through your creativity, strong relationships and attention to detail, you have created extraordinary guest experiences that have shaped the future of our company. Without your impact on our guests, we wouldn’t be celebrating 41 years of success as a company. Our frontline personnel — aircraft fuelers, concierge professionals, customer service teams and others who interact directly with our clients — are the heart of our service delivery. They have the most meaningful face time with our customers; their role in shaping and executing our service is as vital as mine as CEO. This is why we celebrate and empower those who hold the keys to our success. Happy employees create happy experiences, leading to happy customers and, ultimately, happy investors. It’s a continuous cycle that’s at the core of who we are as a company. We deeply value our employees, investing in their growth, recognizing their sacri fi ces and listening to their input. Their well-being and satisfaction directly in fl uence the quality of the experiences we provide to our guests. I am often asked where Million Air is headed as a company. Today, we operate in 36 North American markets and are the third-largest fi xed-base operator (FBO) chain in the world. Yet, with over 19,000 airports in the United States alone and more than 42,000 airports globally, the potential for expansion is vast. Our services and products are well-suited for a signi fi cant portion of these locations, underscoring the enormous possibilities that lie ahead. Our only limitation is the pace at which we can grow while maintaining our high standards of quality. At Million Air, our vision is to be the premier aviation service provider worldwide. Premier doesn’t necessarily mean the biggest — it means holding a place of privilege in the hearts and minds of our customers and employees. Looking ahead, we will continue our focus on adding value for our customers. Our commitment to quality must remain steadfast — whether it’s maintaining excellence, fostering a positive environment or ensuring that every element of our service works in harmony. The goal is not just to drive ROI in the traditional sense, but to deliver what is meaningful to our customers: consistent excellence, moments of surprise and delight, and experiences that matter. In doing so, we not only achieve success but also create a workplace where our daily contributions are recognized and celebrated. As we look to the future, let’s commit to this shared vision, where continuous improvement and value creation are our guiding principles. Together, we will shape the next chapter of Million Air’s legacy, expanding our success sustainably and meaningfully in the long term. Here’s to the year ahead and all the possibilities it brings.

Blue skies and tailwinds,

Roger Woolsey CEO Million 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 36 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 fi rst-class, all-access pass to the world’s wealthiest consumers. For more information contact millionairmagazine@millionair.com

yonikamoto/Shutterstock.com

MILLION AIR FLIGHT BRIEFING LAKE CHARLES, LOUISIANA

Southern charm EXPLORE CAJUN COUNTRY IN A CULTURAL HUB OF SOUTHWEST LOUISIANA

WHERE TO SLEEP With a premier casino, wide selection of fi ne-dining options and amenities that include a world-class spa, a Tom Fazio designed Contraband Bayou golf course and tropical-feel cabanas, L’Auberge Casino Resort Lake Charles has it all, with 26 stories and 1,000 rooms, suites and villas. 777 Avenue L’Auberge, +1 337 395 7777, llakecharles.com

CityHall

WHERE TO EAT Pairing sumptuous steaks and seafood with more than 240 top wines from the area’s largest cellar, Ember Grille & Wine Bar (in L’Auberge Casino Resort) is the perfect place for any celebration or special occasion. Villa Harlequin combines two restaurant family legacies into one. The Southwest Louisiana restaurant serves upscale Italian dishes and delicious steak and seafood, and has an impressive wine collection. 324 Pujo Street, +1 337 436 6251, thevillaharlequin.com WHERE TO FLY Million Air Lake Charles meets private jet travelers’ daily refueling, quick turns and special requests with ease. The 64-acre ramp can serve unlimited types of aircraft, from helicopter operations to military deployments, and Million Air can handle and park aircraft from Cessna 150s to KC-135s, DC-10s, L-1011s, C-5s, C-17s and the larger Antonov aircraft. MILLION AIR LAKE CHARLES (CWF) Chennault International Airport 4500 Chennault Parkway Lake Charles, Louisiana 70615

Delta Downs Racetrack

Thrilling casino gaming

Racetrack, the Isle of Capri Casino and L’Auberge Casino Resort Lake Charles all o ff er riverboat- and track-based gaming options, along with excellent accommodations, fi ne cuisine and entertainment. When you’re ready for a break from all the gaming action, head to the nearby Creole Nature Trail All American Road for a peaceful Southern wetland safari. Scenic driving and walking tours through the beaches and marshlands of Calcasieu and Cameron parishes will open visitors’ eyes to local wildlife, including alligator, armadillo, mink, nutria and unique swampland fauna. Fishing is also a must in this sportsman’s paradise, where such major tournaments as ESPN’s Red fi sh Cup and the Red fi sh Nation Q Series take place each year. Hire yourself a local guide and try your hand at the sport on the still waters of the bayou.

Louisiana's Cajun country is home to more than 75 annual fairs and festivals, tranquil golf greens, thrilling casino gaming and an up-and-coming culinary scene. French settler Martin LeBleu and his wife became the fi rst European residents of this cultural city in 1781, laying the foundation for the rich Franco in fl ected heritage known as Cajun or Acadian culture. This means spicy jambalaya, zydeco music and Mardi Gras. In fact, the city’s Mardi Gras celebration rivals that of New Orleans. Lake Charles’s pre-Lenten holiday features spectacular costumes, fun- fi lled parades and festive activities like the original, but with a decidedly local touch. In that same vein of thrilling decadence, Lake Charles is home to some of the region’s most popular gaming establishments. Delta Downs

T +1 337 436 4877 F +1 337 436 5387 E info.cwf@millionair.com W millionair.com

MILLION AIR FLIGHT BRIEFING MEDFORD, OREGON

Oregon art haven ONE OF THE SUNNIEST TOWNS IN AN AREA KNOWN FOR RAIN, MEDFORD, OREGON IS AS QUAINT AS IT IS CAPTIVATING

WHERE TO SLEEP The nearby Jacksonville Inn embodies Old West opulence at its fi nest and most authentic. The inn, built in 1861, is located in one of the Gold Rush era’s earliest permanent structures and, with its brick-and-red-awning facade, certainly looks the part. It’s not all about the past at the Jacksonville Inn — a fabulous restaurant and a guest list including former presidents make it a stay for the ages. 175 E California Street, +1 541 899 1900, jacksonvilleinn.com

WHERE TO EAT Known for its fi ne dining experience with locally sourced, organic ingredients, Decant is an upscale spot with Italian-inspired dishes. Founded by a certi fi ed sommelier, it's no surprise that there's also an extensive wine list. 149 South Central Avenue, +1 541 772 3668, paisanspizzeria.com WHERE TO FLY Located in a state-of-the-art facility, Million Air Medford is a full-service FBO with a history of excellence. A part of Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport, Million Air Medford was awarded Million Air FBO of the Year in 2008. Facilities and services include a pilot and passenger lounge, conference rooms, quiet room, and a hospitality bar. MILLION AIR MEDFORD (MFR) Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport 2040 Milligan Way, Suite 100 Medford, Oregon 97504

Jazz Festival

The home in later life of movie star Ginger Rogers, Medford, Oregon boasts a bustling art scene, including the Randall Theatre Company and Craterian Theater at The Collier Center for the Performing Arts. The latter is a live performance venue named after one of the area’s largest benefactors, James Collier. The town also hosts the annual Southern Oregon Music Festival every October, which showcases big-name artists as well as young local musicians. For those who prefer the visual arts, Medford also o ff ers two art galleries, Art du Jour Gallery and Rogue Gallery & Art Center, both of which display works from local artists in various styles. No art critique is complete without a good glass of wine and, luckily, Medford is one of the hubs of Oregon’s growing wine industry. RoxyAnn Winery, in east Medford’s Hillcrest Orchard, started small in 2002, but today produces close to 15,000 cases of

award-winning bottles — from Merlots to Cabernet Sauvignons — each year. In addition to luscious grapes for wine, Medford soil grows peaches and some of the country’s best pears, including Bosc, Bartlett and Comice varieties. These pears often fi nd their way into the baskets of one of the area’s biggest employers, Harry & David. The company, founded back in 1910, is famous for its gift baskets of fruit and candies, and is open to the public for factory tours, which include tastes of the scrumptious sweets. Other attractions include the Medford Carnegie Library, built in 1911 through a fi nancial gift from Andrew Carnegie; the 100-acre Bear Creek Park, which boasts multiple tennis courts, a BMX track, an amphitheater, a skate park and a dog park; and Roxy Ann Peak, a 30-million-year-old dormant volcano.

T +1 541 842 2254 F +1 541 842 2255 E infonow@millionairmfr.com W millionair.comr.com

Medford has a growing wine industry

ShadyCove

MILLION AIR FLIGHT BRIEFING STENNIS, MISSISSIPPI

North of New Orleans WHETHER YOU’RE HEADING SOUTH OR BLASTING INTO SPACE, STENNIS OFFERS OPTIONS FOR EVERY TRAVELER

WHERE TO SLEEP Between New Orleans’s thriving business district and history-rich French Quarter, The Roosevelt New Orleans is the city’s king of luxury. First opened in 1893, the property was damaged in Hurricane Katrina and fell from the public eye for the fi rst time in its history. Thankfully, a renovation, with a new Waldorf Astoria a ffi liation, has revived the legend and its stunning Astoria Suites. 130 Roosevelt Way, New Orleans, +1 504 648 1200, therooseveltneworleans.com WHERE TO EAT Commander’s Palace — and the striking Victorian building it has called home for 131 years — is more than a restaurant; it’s a piece of Southern history. While the riverboat captains and pre-war socialites may be gone, it has lost none of its classic elegance, o ff ering intimate private dining options and an encyclopedic menu of Creole classics. This icon is at the top of every Gulf Coast gourmand’s fi ne dining checklist. 1403 Washington Avenue, +1 504 899 8221, commanderspalace.com

Stennis Space Center

huge American river. Traveling urbanites needn’t worry about all this focus on the great outdoors, either. New Orleans, just minutes down the road, o ff ersgreat accommodations and hospitality. Home to one of the most vibrant cultures in the country, the Crescent City o ff ers plenty to do, including a trip through the French Quarter for a glimpse of its famous sights, such as Bourbon Street and St Louis Cathedral. After a ride around town in one of the antique streetcars, return to the modern world with a stop at the Caesars Superdome — which, in the years since Hurricane Katrina, has become a beacon of hope for the city.

For a fi rst-time visitor, Stennis might appear quaint in comparison to many of Million Air’s bustling metropolitan locations. But dig a little deeper and a rich culture boasting a plethora of activities and attractions is uncovered. Stennis Space Center is undoubtedly the area’s claim to fame and number one attraction, playing host to not only thousands of visitors every year, but also to some of the most important technological studies in all of NASA. Located on the banks of the Pearl River in Hancock County, Mississippi, Stennis Space Center hasn’t received the same Hollywood treatment that its bigger brothers in Houston and Orlando have, but its rocket-testing facilities are unrivaled, leading some to coin the phrase “the road to space goes through Mississippi.” Visitors who are interested in the life on this planet can also enjoy the Stennis area, as it boasts innumerable wildlife reserves and national refuges throughout its diverse array of ecosystems. The 35,000-acre Pearl River Wildlife Management Area unfolds from its namesake’s east bank, o ff ering hunting, fi shing and hiking opportunities, as well as family-friendly swamp tours. Farther downstream, the Delta National Wildlife Refuge plays host to one of the most unusual habitats on Earth. If you’ve ever pined to step into the mouth of the mighty Mississippi, Delta National o ff ers the perfect opportunity, with 48,000 acres of life-rich wetlands formed entirely from sediment deposited by this

WHERE TO FLY Located just over the Pearl River from New Orleans at Stennis International Airport, Million Air Stennis o ff ers every amenity for the private jet traveler, including a hospitality bar, conference rooms and Mercedes-Benz crew cars. Captain and crew will be equally pleased thanks to our pilot lounges, theater room, cafe and a dedicated fl ight planning room.

Downtown French Quarter

MILLION AIR STENNIS (HSA) Stennis International Airport 7250 Stennis Airport Drive Kiln, Mississippi 39556

T +1 228 463 2389 F +1 228 463 2335 E info.hsa@millionair.com W millionair.com

Photo Christian Hinkle/Shutterstock.com

147 N Robertson Blvd West Hollywood 310.273.5038

elite traveler WINTER 2024/25 52 Contributors

MITCH PAYNE

Photographer

London-based photographer Mitch Payne’s work spans both editorial and commercial projects, with clients including Nike, Grey Goose, British Vogue and The Wall Street Journal .On page 69, he returns to Elite Traveler for the third year running (alongside regular collaborator Maya-Linhares Marx) for our annual holiday gift guide, shot at Payne’s east London studio. Together, the duo have injected their signature vibrant, contrast-heavy styles to bring the shoot to life — highlights include a dazzling diamond-laden suite fromGra ff . mitchpayne.co.uk

MAYA LINHARES-MARX

Stylist

NICOLE TRIVILAS

For our annual gift guide, Elite Traveler has once again collaborated with London-based still-life stylist and set designer Maya Linhares-Marx. With over 17 years experience across both editorial and commercial shoots, Linhares-Marx specializes in creating sets for luxury goods. She comes from a background in textile design, which began with a BA Hons in the subject. Following a stint working in one of Europe’s biggest textile design studios in Vienna, Austria, Linhares Marx returned to the UK and now works across advertising campaigns and editorial content, and runs a prop rental company specializing in naturally

Travel writer

Regular Elite Traveler contributor Nicole Trivilas hails from New York, but now considers herself a Londoner — an ideal day in the city would start with a swing around Kensington Gardens to get the blood pumping, then breakfast at Dishoom, followed by a stroll through one of London's smaller museums. In the evening, it’s going out for cocktails in Mayfair — preferably a martini at Duke’s Bar. A bona fi de hotel expert, Trivilas’ industry-leading knowledge has been called upon to judge a number of awards, including National Geographic Traveller ’s Best New Hotels in 2022 and The Telegraph ’s inaugural Hotel Awards in 2024. On page 162, she checks into the newly opened Eriro — a nine-suite retreat in the remote reaches of Austria’s Tyrolean Alps. nicoletrilivas.com

found materials. mlmstylist.com

NATASHA BIRD Journalist, editor and consultant

Natasha Bird formerly worked as executive editor at ELLE , but now contributes to a number of titles including Cosmopolitan , Esquire and Harper’s Bazaar , and runs Tough Crowd — an automotive consultancy aimed at challenging the industry’s gender barriers. Her expertise spans a broad spectrum, from fashion and technology to relationships and travel, but for Elite Traveler ’sWinter issue, she has her motoring hat on. On page 62, Bird gets behind the wheel of the new Aston Martin Vanquish: “It’s a car that feels as tender as it does terrifying... Opening up the throttle in Sport mode on Costa Smeralda’s generous, empty straights feels like riding a bazooka rocket.” Home is London, which, despite being a frequent traveler, remains her favorite city on Earth. natashabird.com

Words Kim Ayling

THE ORIGINAL INFLUENCER

Vehicle shown: 2024 Range Rover. © 2024 Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC

EDITORIAL Editor Samantha Coles samantha.coles@elitetraveler.com

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CONTRIBUTORS Emma Al-Mousawi, Natasha Bird, Julie Boatman, Miriam Cain, Alex Green, Andrew Harris, Becca Hensley, John O’Kelly, Nicole Trilivas

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SUBSCRIPTION INQUIRIES Elite Traveler is the only audited publication for the private jet audience. To make sure you never miss an issue, subscribe to Elite Traveler , the Responsible Luxury Lifestyle magazine. $50 for a single issue. For subscription details, visit elitetraveler.com/subscribe. To keep up to date with the latest in luxury lifestyle and travel news, sign up for weekly email roundup LATEST IN LUXURY & THE EXPLORER at elitetraveler.com/newsletter

DISCOVER

GiftGuide Frommagni fi cent watches to glittering jewels, stylish accessories and the latest in beauty and wellness — our meticulously curated gift guide has plenty of inspiration for the holiday season Page 6 9

Page 61 Object of desire Bar carts are on a roll — some are even fi nding a permanent home on the high seas. Page 62 Motoring Natasha Bird takes the all-new Aston Martin Vanquish out for a thrilling spin. Page 64 Yachts Themost important person on a yacht is the owner, and the most important suite is the owner’s suite — Miriam Cain explores. Page 66 Cruises Don’t want your cruise to end? It doesn’t have to.

Photo Mitch Payne

las vegas paiute golf resort

Whether you're a seasoned golfer seeking a new challenge or a novice looking to immerse yourself in the beauty of the game, the Las Vegas Paiute Golf Resort beckons with its world-class courses and unmatched serenity. Experience golfing at its finest, surrounded by the stunning backdrop of the Nevada desert, at the Las Vegas Paiute Golf Resort.. For reservations call 800.711.2833 or visit www.realpuregolf.com

DISCOVER

61

elite traveler WINTER 2024/25

Object of desire by Samantha Coles

Onaroll

There are myriad fun and fancy ways to display your booze collection — from labyrinthine underground cellars to museum-worthy wall displays. But nothing quite matches the giddy delight of a bar cart, whether it’s rolled out at home or a permanent fi xture on the high seas — like this custom madecart. The Macallan approached Hawthorn Innovations, a creative agency, to craft an ‘experience’ for the launch of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection (to read more about a fi rst sail on board the latest launch, Ilma , head to pg 166). As the bar cart would be at sea, it needed to be functional — but, as this is both The Macallan and The Ritz-Carlton, it also needed to be seriously stylish. And it certainly delivers, with a custom jigger stand to ensure a seamless spill-free pour and a full diamond as a visual indicator for the proper dram. As Josh Durr, founder and creative director at Hawthorn, explains: “We are dedicated to crafting bespoke luxury bar carts tailored to the unique vision of each client. Our multidisciplinary team of designers, wine and spirit experts, and master artisans work collaboratively to deliver one-of-a-kind creations that exude elegance and sophistication. Every element, from concept to fi nish, is meticulously custom designed to ensure a truly unique result.” hawthorninnovations.com

The Macallan bar cart

DISCOVER

by Natasha Bird Motoring

Aston Martin Vanquish: An icon reborn

“Easy does it.” In a quiet room of Sardinia’s elegant Hotel Cala Di Volpe, we’re being cautioned against overenthusiastic first contact between toe and throttle. Just a fraction too much pressure on the pedal of this poised panther will apparently lurch you into next week. Sound advice, and utterly tantalizing. To say that this car has a lot to live up to would be a drastic understatement. The creation of the original V12 Vanquish — the production version of a 1998 super-GT concept car called, perhaps confusingly, Project Vantage — was a seminal moment for Aston Martin: a radical new platform composed of its first six-speed paddle shift, a body tub of extruded aluminum (now part of the brand’s signature), an orotund 460 bhp version of a brand new V12 shared only with DB7 Vantage, and all housed in a brawny, strikingly attractive Ian Callum design. It captured hearts and minds instantly, and became something of an origin story for a bold new era of the marque. To successfully reimagine it for 2024 is not just to create a showstopper worthy of the brand’s historic nameplate, but to present a crowning glory for Aston Martin’s ultra-luxury, ultra-performance, next-era repositioning. Plus, it needs to be a decent challenger for Ferrari’s 12Cilindri and justify its punt on the market still having demand for these kinds of high-displacement, multi-cylinder combustion engines.

Among Vanquish’s inventions is something Aston has coined the ‘Boost Reserve’ system. Essentially, it’s an overly keen turbocharger that inhales and compresses extra air and stores it in something of an antechamber, building up pressure in the background for when the throttle is released and re-depressed. It’s not something you feel when the turbos are spinning at maximum velocity, but more in transient driving. Feathering the pedal through Sardinia’s serpentine hill climbs is a smoother experience, with no lag in power delivery. There’s also an economy of space over compound or sequential turbos, which is crucial when Marek Reichman, Aston Martin’s chief creative officer, is trying to craft a body of precise proportions.

It’s a noble renaissance. In the spirit of Vanquish Mk1, everything is new, including chassis, wheelbase, powertrain and external architecture. From the heads to the block to the camshaft, each element of the 5.2-liter Twin Turbo V12 has been optimized for increased power and responsiveness. The result is remarkable — the most powerful series production car Aston Martin has ever built, with a top speed of 214 mph, 0-60 in 3.2 seconds, 835 hp (160 hp per liter, excelling even Valkyrie) and torque of 1,000 Nm. Opening up the throttle in Sport mode on Costa Smeralda’s generous, empty straights feels like riding a bazooka rocket, part of your flesh forming an atomic relationship with the leather of the seat behind you.

Photos Max Earey

Justa fr action too much pressure on the pedal of this poised panther will apparently lurch you into next week

“It’s the embodiment of a feeling,” Reichman tells me of the design. “The first Vanquish was a very powerful car. It dominated. It was muscular. And that’s what I want to portray.” And he does. The wheelbase is long at 2,885 millimeters, with an especially protracted A-pillar to front axle, giving it a mighty, planted stance. It’s got those same brawny haunches as the Vanquish predecessors, only bigger, with the rear track width up 25 millimeters on the outgoing DBS. For added fury, Vanquish has an even more enormous front grille; Formula 1-inspired, arrow-shaped vents in the sculpted bonnet; and an acute flick on the spoiler, emphasizing the hard stop of the Kamm tail. It looks vicious, in the best way. And if Reichman wants any further proof of concept, he can collect all the jaws dropping on the pavements of Olbia as our cavalcade rolls past. For all that it’s a machine built for power and dominion, Aston’s new place in the market relies on something more. As well as frightening Fiat Pandas on the overtake, Vanquish’s status as a super-GT hinges on its ability to cosset you through the long haul, too. It’s a car that’s got to feel as tender as it does terrifying. Gilt-edge luxury in the interior now comes as standard in next-gen models, with superior leathers, a signature balance of hard keys and tactile buttons on the center console — this has been lowered in Vanquish to push out the diaphragm of the cabin — state-of-the-art (and sizeable) infotainment systems, and the Bowers & Wilkins stereo. The drive comfort has been keyed up as well, with increased underbody bracing and Bilstein DTX Dampers affording both stability and suppleness, plus an all-new corner braking provision in the ABS, allowing a fluid economy of brake pedaling in hours of gentle twists. As was the intention, Aston Martin’s 2024 Vanquish isn’t the revival of a legend; it’s the reincarnation. It presents another turning point for the brand, into an era where supercars have to demonstrate so much more than speed. Vanquish isn’t just a beast, but a world to inhabit and an expression of power, luxury and identity. astonmartin.com

DISCOVER

elite traveler WINTER 2024/25 64

Yachts by Miriam Cain

SUPER SUITES The most important person on a yacht is the owner, and the most important room on the yacht is their suite. Miriam Cain looks at the yachts taking owner’s suites to new levels Prior to the last decade or so, the owner’s suite was similar to the other guest cabins, albeit slightly larger. These days, with yachts becoming larger and larger, the amount of real estate these suites occupy has also expanded — in some cases an entire deck is now devoted to the owner’s suite. Robert Drontmann, sales director at Heesen Yachts, explains: “This trend is largely driven by the fact that more owners are choosing to spend extended periods on board. Many are now working from their yachts for the whole summer, thanks to improved satellite communications and the rise of hybrid working models. As a result, it has become essential for owners that they have a combination of social and private spaces.” One of the most talked about yachts on the charter market today is the 2023 Friere-built Renaissance . Despite her colossal length of 367.5 ft, the designers at Bannenberg & Rowell still managed to create spaces that feel intimate and private. This includes the dedicated owner’s deck featuring a palatial stateroom with forward-facing views and access to a private deck with a Jacuzzi and lounging areas. The owner’s deck also has a private salon, o ffi ceand alfresco dining on the aft deck. Another example of a superb master suite can be found aboard the brand-new, 400.3-ft Kismet . The master suite is not just an owner’s deck but spans two levels. “The dedicated suite includes a master stateroom, complete with a huge skylight and fi replace, his and hers bathrooms, his and hers dressing rooms, and a beauty salon,” says Liz Cox, partner at Cecil Wright. “A private Jacuzzi and sunbathing area are located forward, while a staircase leads to the master o ffi ce, where panoramic views encourage productivity but are also a welcome distraction.”

This image and below Kismet will be cruising the Caribbean this winter season, followed by a summer in the Mediterranean. From €3m (approx $3.3m) per week, cecilwright.com

Fromright Renaissance will be cruising the Caribbean this winter season and the Mediterranean in summer 2025. From $3.5m per week, burgessyachts.com

Photos Blueiprod

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