For The New Breed Of Luxury Traveler
Tokyo Calling Our Best Of The Best - Luxury Hotels In Shibuya
The Ama Divers Of Ise Shima Lunch With the Mermaid Divers Of Japan
Underneath The Cottonwood Tree A Luxury Villa Hotel Experience in Ocho Rios
LOOK WAY UP! Our Exclusive NYC Supplement Inside
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Canada - Mainland China - Fiji - France - Hong Kong - India - Indonesia - Japan - Malaysia - Mauritius -Mongolia - Myan
nmar - Philippines - Qatar - Maldives - Singapore -Sri Lanka - Oman - Taiwan- Thailand -Turkey - United Arab Emirates - United Kingdom
New Jetsetters GLOSS Magazine
GLOSS Features In This Issue
12 Above and Beyond At The Andaz Toranomon Hills In mid-2014 the Andaz Toranomon Hills was the “New Kid on the Block” on the Tokyo luxury hotel scene. With the solid reputation of the upscale Andaz “lifestyle” brand behind them, it didn’t take long for both loyal guests and curious newcomers to fall in love with this striking Tokyo hotel. Reviewers raved about both the style and character of the design, with the 51st-floor Andaz Lounge receiving high praise
14 Exploring The Latest Luxury Travel Trends Despite the increase in worldwide terrorist attacks, the demand for luxury travel experiences continues to grow, and with this demand, fierce competition for the attention of the wealthy and their travel dollars. From Michelin-Star restaurants to rooftop helicopter transfers and private spa services for pampered pets, there seems to be no end to the lengths that luxury hotel brands are willing to go to retain loyal customers and win new clients.
22 The Ama Divers Of Isa Shima Japan I remember thinking they looked rather fragile as they stood there, like grandmothers patiently waiting for their grandchildren to get off the school bus, kind, patient, weathered faces sketched with warm smiles. My initial impression of fragility could not possibly have been more wrong. Let me tell you why these are some of the least fragile ladies you will ever meet.
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Drinking In Chianti - A Visit To Castello Di Spaltenna
26 Meet You At The Dorchester The Mayfair District in London is known around the world as one of the most distinguished neighbourhoods in the world. Some of the most elite luxury brands reside in Mayfair, where one can visit Bond Street Tailors for a custom-fitted suit before heading over for some exquisite sweets or a famously decadent hamper from Fortnum and Mason, known as “the most luxurious department store in the world”. If this isn’t enough, stroll past Chanel, Dolce Gabbana, Jimmy Choo, Louis Vuitton and Tiffany & Co. just a few of the swanky brands that call Mayfair District home.
30 Introducing Japan’s Latest Luxury Train We thought the bullet train between Tokyo and Nagano was fast, efficient and supercomfortable. Little did we know that East Japan Railway has been working hard on taking the already highly acclaimed Japanese mode of transit to a whole new level of luxury with the introduction of the spectacular Shiki-Shima train. They call it “Train Suite Shiki-Shima” and if just the catchy name makes you sit up and take notice, listen to what’s in store for lucky passengers. Let’s just say that luxury train travel has now reached new heights In Japan.
New Jetsetters GLOSS Magazine
36 The Rooftops Of New York City New York City s well known for 5 star hotels, Broadway, Central Park and glamorous 5th Avenue shops, but we have one more reason for you to visit the Big Apple – the amazing selection of rooftop lounges and bars. On a recent visit to Gotham we investigated six trendy Manhattan hot-spots to see what was up (so to speak) with these popular watering holes and to do a little research on the ambiance, location and liquid offerings available at each.
40 A Passion For Fashion With “Style Room” New York
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The stretch limo rolls to a smooth stop right in front of you and your best friends. You step inside, sinking into a sinfully soft leather seat. A bottle of champagne is chilling on ice, tempting your tastebuds with the promise of tiny tasty bubbles. Raising your champagne glass high in the air, smiles and laughter coincide with the tinkle of a toast. It could be to health, or it could be to happiness – or both. I first meet Karen at an address she has texted to me this morning – a secret location in the Garment District of New York City.
Lupaia, A Country Estate In The Heart Of Tuscany
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Never Just Stay “Stay Inspired”
The Luxury Of Boutique Hotels
The view beyond the 8-metre high, wall-to-wall windows of Bar TwentyEight at the Conrad Tokyo is nothing to trifle with. These are some serious windows, and this high up in the sky a stunning vista is pretty much assured, no matter what time of day or night. In fact, it is almost impossible not to stop on your way through the 28th floor reception lobby just to unleash your inner eagle and grab an eyeful of beauty. And so it was that only three days into our stay at the Conrad Tokyo we already had a “usual table” …
Boutique hotels have been around for a long time. Many believe the concept originated in the 1980’s, in cities like London, New York, and San Francisco, where land and building costs were extremely high. The concept of building smaller, more intimate and thus more unique (and expensive) accommodations became desirable. Fast forward 35 years and the Boutique Hotel Experience has become the “Luxury” Boutique Hotel experience. It’s all about uniqueness, aesthetics, atmosphere…
44 Romancing Central Park With Central Park Sightseeing The rays of a late morning New York City sun warmed my face and shoulders as I sank into the cushy red velvet seat of the carriage. Our host’s furry ears twitched as he shuffled impatiently, anxious to depart. Oh, by the way, it was not our driver who had the furry white ears – it was Oscar. The horse.
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In Conversation With: Chef Conroy Arnold
From the hidden gem of “Christopher's Restaurant at Hermosa Cove Villa Hotel in Ocho Rios we sit down with one of Jamaica's inspiring new chefs.
New Jetsetters GLOSS Magazine
51 Perspectives
More Gloss
Get The Scoop
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Underneath The Cottonwood Tree At Hermosa Cove Villa Hotel
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An Evening Of Food And Wine In Florence With Walks Of Italy
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Michael Caines’ New Countryside Retreat Is Open For Business!
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Dining In Port Antonio Your Table Is Waiting
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Paradise Found In Mayakoba
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Barefoot And Bohemian Isla Holbox
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The Ancient Theatrical Art of “Noh” with Luxurique, Japan
Capturing The ILTM Phenomenon
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The “Suite Life” Vancouver’s Loden Hotel
Sereno Hotels Opens It’s Newest Luxury Property On Lake Como
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Discover Your Six Senses In Bhutan
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Air Canada Adds Vancouver To Frankfurt Direct Flights
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It’s Free Never Just Stay - “Stay Inspired” At The Conrad Tokyo
“Underneath It All” Exploring Geejam - Port Antonio
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New Jetsetters Gloss Produced and Published By Clever Penguin Media Vancouver, Canada Reproduction in whole or in part is not permitted without written authorization of the publisher. This magazine contains general and specific information, but does not constitute expert advice. The publisher and authors do not accept any liability whatsoever in respect to any action taken by readers in reliance on the recommendations set out in this magazine. Without limiting the effect of the previous provision, newjetsetters.com is not liable to you for any indirect, consequential, punitive, or special damages. Newjetsetters.com and New Jetsetters GLOSS Magazine offer a great platform for luxury brands to connect with a highly engaged, global audience from countries such as the USA, Canada, Europe and Asia to mention just a few. We also interact daily with over 30,000 active followers through our social media platforms. These include: Facebook, Google+, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram and YouTube. We are currently rated in the top 10 percent of “Influencers” on Klout.
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Editorial Coverage : We take our Brand relationships very seriously. If you invite New Jetsetters to experience your product or service and we deem it will be of interest to our readership, we will share the experience with our audience in the form of a Feature Article (Perspectives), or as a Highlight Article (Gloss) on newjetsetters.com. These articles are published with accompanying HD photography, and for the Gloss articles, a short NJS produced HD Video that is embedded into the article and is also featured on New Jetsetters YouTube channel. All articles include multiple links and include full social media promotion. Chosen luxury content will be featured in our New Jetsetters GLOSS Magazine, published quarterly and hosted on ISSUU. Press Trips: Please note that New Jetsetters seldom do group press trips. As the ” Press” line continues to blur between bloggers, journalists and “Travel Influencers”, our focus is on the personal luxury travel experience and, in most cases, group events do not fall into this category. If you represent a client who would consider a private press trip, do feel free to contact us. Live Social Media Coverage: New Jetsetters include live Social Media coverage of all hosted events and stays on all of our six social media platforms, in real time and include pre-and post-promotion. Currently this service is included at no charge.
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New Jetsetters was founded as a labour of love to provide resources to those we consider “The New Breed of Luxury Traveler”. As publishers of New Jetsetters Gloss Magazine we have been travelling and writing about unique and luxury travel for over twenty years. We are not travel agents, nor are we travel brokers disguised as a review site, and we don’t sell “any” products. Newjetsetters.com is completely “advertisement free” and offers you news, features and intimate Reviews called “High Gloss” featuring places we’ve personally visited and encourage you to see. New Jetsetters GLOSS 9
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On The Cover
As this beautiful issue of New Jetsetters Gloss goes to publication there continues to be sadness, drama and disaster happening throughout the world. For those of us who travel frequently, friends, acquaintances and partners are often caught up in the madness. Right now Hurricane Irma is battering her way through the delicate, islands of the Caribbean, destroying airports, buildings, homes and businesses that many have spent their lives building, and most tragically, taking lives. We feel sad that we cannot be there to help those we have forged relationships with, anxious that we cannot even find out how they are. We feel guilty having to cancel trips planned to those afflicted areas. All we can do is support all the disaster relief funds we can, and vow to return as soon as they are back on their feet, to help renew the life-blood of tourism that these islands exist on. Our prayers go out to the people of the Caribbean, especially St. Martin/Saint Maarten, St. Barth and Anguilla, three islands terribly damaged by Irma, where we have so many dear friends. Stay strong. We promise to never forget all the wonders we have experienced with you, and pledge to return and spread the word that you are back and better than ever when you are ready for us. We are launching a new Twitter Hashtag campaign for all Caribbean lovers so no-one will forget. #WeWillReturn We invite our readers to join us. We are proud to say that this Issue of New Jetsetters Gloss is our biggest and, dare we say, best ever. Think of our Table of Contents as the Menu from a Michelin-Star Restaurant. Our Amuse Bouche selections cleanse your travel palate: fresh views 51 floors up at the Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills Lounge, a luscious taste of World Luxury Travel Trends, and a savoury sampling of Chef Michael Caines’ Countryside Retreat in Devon UK. Appetizers include a deep dive into Japanese Food and Culture as we meet and eat with the Legendary Women Ama Divers of Ise Shima, the sophisticated taste of the “Dorchester London” in Mayfair District, and a gold-dusted Japanese Luxury Train dish, the “Train Suite Shiki-Shima”. Thirsty yet? Take a moment to sip a tall, cool glass of Bar 28, stirred with stunning views, at the Conrad Tokyo. Then sample New York with our toothsome trio of canapés: explore the sexy Rooftops of NYC, do some personal shopping with glamorous “Style Room NYC” Owner Karen Parker O’Brien, and last but not least, sample a sweet side-dish as we explore Central Park with Central Park Sightseeing and Oscar the horse, one of the happiest, healthiest horses I’ve ever met. Next? Our Entrees include Hermosa Cove, a rich, flavourful Jamaican “Villa Hotel” which comes swimming in personality and colour; (as a delicious side dish we recommend the Conversation with their Executive Chef Conroy Arnold). In the mood for Italian? Try our Food and Wine Experiences with Walks of Italy as we stroll the historic Oltrarno neighbourhood of Florence to sample delicious local cuisine. We also offer two epic “Large Plates” - “Drinking in Chianti” explores the gorgeous Castello di Spaltenna and the truly heavenly “Lupaia, A Country Estate in Tuscany”. To finish, tempting desserts include “The Suite Life” (luxury at Vancouver’s Loden Hotel), an exotic concoction called “Six Senses Bhutan” and an experimental option that may just pique your tastebuds from Japan called the Theatrical Art of Noh. Bon Appetite, my travelling friends - and remember - travel often, and travel well!
Deborah Thompson
NEW JETSETTERS GLOSS MAGAZINE
I hope you enjoy issue 17 of New Jetsetters GLOSS luxury Travel Magazine. If you're looking for more luxury travel inspiration please visit newjetsetters.com and connect with New Jetsetters across our social media platforms. In the next issue of GLOSS - the latest in luxury travel news and stories plus - Budapest, Prague, Munich, St. Barbados, Salzburg, Laguna Beach and much, much more.
The Roof Top Bar on the 52nd Floor
Above and Beyond At The Andaz Toranomon Hills In mid-2014 the Andaz Toranomon Hills was the “New Kid on the Block” on the Tokyo luxury hotel scene. With the solid reputation of the upscale Andaz “lifestyle” brand behind them, it didn’t take long for both loyal guests and curious newcomers to fall in love with this striking Tokyo hotel. Reviewers raved about both the style and character of the design, with the 51st-floor Andaz Lounge receiving high praise for the celebration of traditional Japanese aesthetics and clean, contemporary design, with appreciative nods to the oversized bonsai trees, floating wooden sculptures, and high ceilings.
The Andaz Tavern
The AO Spa and Club
New Jetsetters was very fortunate to spend two evenings enjoying the striking Andaz Toranomon Hills tower during our Tokyo visit, and we have to say that we certainly understand why this gorgeous property has made a definitive place for itself at the top of the luxury hotel scene. “Andaz”, which means “Personal Style” in Hindi, represents a new, warmer philosophy of customer service that proudly touts an “unscripted style”. An example of this is evident in their uniquely designed Reception Lobby, where hosts with tablets greet guests as they disembark the elevators, processing their check-in wherever it happens to feel right – at one of the many lounge tables in the living-room style lobby or in the guest room itself. The hotel offers 164 rooms, of which eight are specialty suites – and they do mean “special”. We were very fortunate to tour one of their intoxicating corner suites and we can describe it as jaw-dropping. Offering guests just about everything they could imagine, the “Sky-Suites” enjoy floor-to-ceiling windows framing
Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills is located between Tokyo Tower and the Imperial Palace, with easy access to the Ginza shopping district, Tokyo Station and various cultural attractions. Meaning “personal style” in Hindi, Andaz is deeply rooted in local culture and history. unique flavours and savoury sensations difficult to even describe. The only distraction? The stunning views from the floor-to-ceiling glass windows that encompass the Imperial Palace and a sparkling city skyline. Also notable is the experience from the tower’s apex on the 52nd floor. Andaz offers guests and visitors an unprecedented rooftop experience with breathtaking views from their rooftop bar and the city’s unique “highest stand-alone” wedding chapel. We were thrilled to end our stay in Japan here, at a rooftop party fit for a king (actually, an emperor in this case!). Here we found a foodie paradise of wonderful Japanese fare complete with free flowing cocktails and premium champagne spread out between three
Andaz Sky Suite
180-degree views of Tokyo Bay and Tokyo Tower. In keeping with tradition, the bath area is a stunning retreat with the customary round, deep-soaking tub that the Japanese are so fond of. With a sticker price of 1,000,000 Yen per night, we can all acknowledge that luxury in Tokyo is not for the faint of heart – but bear in mind that Wi-Fi, local calls, snacks, and non-alcoholic beverages are complimentary for all registered guests. Next to the warm and inviting Andaz Lounge on the 51st floor is the main dining venue, Andaz Tavern. Chef Gregor Streun’s menu serves refined European provincial cuisine cooked with unique Japanese produce and ingredients. We were hosted by the Andaz management team to a delightful multi-course private dining experience that tempted our taste buds with a range of visually stunning dishes, unfolding levels of The Gardens At The Sanctuary At Camelback Mountain
unique venues. An indoor centrepiece attracted the bulk of the crowd; here we found aromatic cooking stations steaming and sizzling with delicious Japanese food intermingled with cultural displays of traditional Japanese arts, from a beautiful young girl playing a haunting melody on a traditional Japanese three-stringed “Koto”, to young men displaying their fine-painting skills on ceramics and cloth. A partially protected open-air roof terrace overlooked the spectacular Tokyo skyline, while a separate open-air terrace invited social conversations under cozy heaters, and extra space to connect with new friends and future business associates. We really enjoyed the “Baibu” or vibe of the Andaz Toranomon Hills. Creating a very competitive Tokyo luxury hotel experience while embracing and enhancing the Andaz lifestyle brand is no small feat, but GM Ross Cooper pulls it off with style. New Jetsetters GLOSS 13
The Latest
Luxury Travel Trends Despite the increase in worldwide terrorist attacks, the demand for luxury hotels continues to grow, and with this demand, fierce competition for the attention of the wealthy and their travel dollars. By R J Gordon
Elements Restaurant
From Michelin-Star restaurants to rooftop helicopter transfers and private spa services for your dog, there seems to be no end to the lengths the top luxury hotel brands are willing to go to to retain loyal customers and win new clients. One thing has been clear to us for a number of years. Today’s luxury travellers are not just looking for a “place to stay”. They want to connect personally, on a grand scale, with a property and its environment. The world’s best hotels, like the Four Seasons in Istanbul, are continuing to respond to this trend with “Guest The Jade Bar Experience Concierges” and “Brand Experience Managers” to guide and assist their customers from the very moment they arrive.. Here are some trends that are exciting and inspiring us in the world of luxury travel.
Spa Suite
The Pool At The Sanctuary
New Jetsetters GLOSS
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Dynamic Cultural Itineraries LUXURY TRAVEL TRENDS
As much as relaxing around a pool all day for a week or two may sound appealing, if you are like us, what you really long for is to experience and explore your new environment. Recognizing this desire, 5 Star Hotels such as Six Senses Resorts are creating bespoke itineraries that will take you out into the community and introduce you to new friends, unique cuisine and cultural experiences – which at the same time supports and encourages the local people and businesses. This is without doubt one of the fastest growing trends, and we are big fans of this concept.
Private Jets and Charters LUXURY TRAVEL TRENDS
Our good friends at Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts were the first hotel group to unveil its very own branded private jet last year. Guests travel in comfort with flat beds and are lavished with Bulgari amenities and Champagne while jetting from resort to resort, taking in some of the world’s most amazing sights along the way. Four Seasons was also the first to offer private cruises in the Maldives with their luxury 128-foot catamaran “Explorer”. In a similar vein, Aman Resorts is partnering with “Frontiers International Travel” to provide bespoke jet tours of Asia.
Michelin Star Room Service LUXURY TRAVEL TRENDS
Fabulous food experiences are inextricably entwined with luxury, so for years now, 5 Star Hotels around the world have been offering guests some of the best Michelin Star dining venues right on their premises. Taking this gastronomic option one step further, however, the latest trend finds luxury properties offering guests the opportunity to enjoy Michelin Starred cuisine right in their room. “Costes Downtown”, a restaurant at the Prestige Hotel in Budapest, was recently awarded their first Michelin star. It now offers a full in-room menu for guests unable to secure a table at their restaurant.
Luxury travellers are open-minded and adventurous about their accommodation choices. While “Brand Loyalty” is still one of the most important factors in their decision making, they tend to be more flexible depending on their destination of choice. Small boutique hotels and private accommodations have become more and more popular.
Tailored Wardrobes LUXURY TRAVEL TRENDS
Forget about dragging those heavy suitcases full of creased clothing around next time you travel to London! Imagine checking into a hotel and flinging open the closet doors to find an entire rack of clothes, all in your size, for you to wear for the duration of your stay (and beyond if desired)! Yes, this is actually happening. Hotels such as the “W Hotel” in London are starting to team up with fashion brands to sponsor “in-room wardrobes” for guests. Clothing and accessories will be customized to suit the personal taste of guests based on their online shopping habits, size and local weather conditions. And yes, you can purchase them to take home if you like.
Luxury Vehicles LUXURY TRAVEL TRENDS
Most luxury hotels have been providing guests with a complimentary chauffeur town car service within a certain radius for years. But now, leading-edge brands such as the Mandarin Oriental in Munich and the Fairmont Miramar Hotel in Santa Monica are going a step further by providing guests the option of tooling around town in some of the most exotic luxury cars in the industry. We are talking luxury at it’s finest. At Dubai’s Burj Al Arab, for example, you can hire an Aston Martin, Ferrari or a Lamborghini for the ultimate in an eye-popping and stylish drive.
In House Recording Studios LUXURY TRAVEL TRENDS
Up until recently you might have been lucky to find a karaoke machine in your penthouse, but now some hotels are building entire recording studios for both amateurs and professional artists on tour. The Eden Roc in St Barth (French West Indies) continues to fine-tune their guest experiences with “Villa Rockstar” where guests can record their own souvenir soundtrack during time spent in the Caribbean. “Geejam“, a special boutique hideaway in Jamaica, has one of the leading residential recording complexes in the Caribbean. You can rent out the studio to record an album. Pop by our website for a full review of this amazing property.
Luxury travel is not always about spending money on the “best of the best”. It means different things to different people. For example, younger travellers are concerned less with opulence and pampering and more with authenticity and “truly local experiences” while the older generation focuses more on “Brand Identification, Loyalty and Trust”. New Jetsetters GLOSS 17
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Michael Caines’ New English Countryside Retreat Is Open For Business!
A new “foodie” haven has officially arrived in the UK with the opening of Lympstone Manor in East Devon. Celebrated British “Chef-turned-Hotelier” Michael Caines (not to be confused with British Actor Michael Caine) who earned two Michelin stars during his renowned tenure at Gidleigh Park Manor, has spent the last year re-imaging a Georgian mansion and turning it into a contemporary boutique retreat that celebrates the environment and, of course, food. Overlooking a breathtaking expanse of the River Exe Estuary that runs through the sprawling 28 acre estate, Lympstone Manor is situated on a rise that allows for picturesque views of the countryside. Inside the Manor, architect Rud Sawers and London-based design firm Meraki worked with Chef Caines to successfully celebrate and project the beauty of the estate’s surroundings, revealing sleek, serene interiors that have transformed the once-opulent manor into a modern estate fit for discerning (New Jetsetters) guests. General Enquiries INFO@LYMPSTONEMANOR.CO.UK Telephone: 01395 202040 Room Reservations RESERVATIONS@LYMPSTONEMANOR.CO.UK Telephone: 01395 202040
Crystal Cruises takes delivery of its first VIP jetliner
After it was built in Boeing’s Everett factory, this plane spent two years at Moses Lake to perfect a jaw-dropping customized interior. Stone veneer and marble accents designed by Greenpoint Technologies of Kirkland were installed under contract by a team from Aviation Technical Services, the Everett-based airplane maintenance firm. To celebrate it’s maiden flight a group of wealthy Asians departed from Hong Kong on the lavishly appointed Boeing 777 for a nine-day tour with stops at luxury hotels in Nairobi, Kenya and Tahiti.
Do you love theater and the performing arts? Planning a visit to Japan in the near future? If so, we’d like to introduce you to “Luxurique”, an international hospitality management company based in Japan that specializes in providing VIP visitors with access to some of the most incredible “once in a lifetime” events, places and people. Now, for the first time ever, Luxurique has secured the honour of introducing “Noh Theatre” to the cultured tastes of international visitors. Luxurique is inviting clients to a very exclusive “Noh” performance at The Kanze Nogakudo (Kanze Noh Theatre) in Tokyo’s famous Ginza District. The Kanze Noh Theatre is owned by Kiyokazu Kanze, a descendant of the father and son pair “Kan’ami and Zeami”, credited for perfecting the ancient form of narrative dance-theater in the 14th century. Celebrated Grand Masters of the Kanze Noh School will be starring in the production. An added bonus – the performance will be simultaneously translated into English for visitors. Noh is spiritual in concept, with themes revolving around life and the after-life. Notably, there is no attempt to create an illusion of reality, as is the key component of Western theatre. Noh performance is based on “total regulation of external expressions and control of every detail” and the art form is handed down through generations, from fathers to sons, with complex techniques training actors to be “in the right place at the right time, doing the right thing”, becoming so familiar with the role that they can “perform unthinkingly and thereby become one with it”. Depending on the story being enacted, performers have masks covering the upper parts of their face; if masks are not used, actors are required to keep their faces completely expressionless. Should anything go wrong during a performance, a stage attendant will come forward to assist; they will openly produce props, straighten out folds in the actor’s costume or even prompt the actor if he forgets his lines. None of this is perceived as disruptive because this form of theatre does not call for a suspension of disbelief. “Art is created openly and immediately; the audience is a part of the reality of the creation”. If this does not sound fascinating enough, true to Luxurique’s claim of being able to provide visitors with one-of-a-kind opportunities, Noh experts will be introduced to visitors before the performance to enrich their knowledge and experience. Afterwards, a private Gala Dinner will be held at the Hotel Okura, hosted by non-other than Mr. Kanze, with a menu created and prepared by Michelin starred chef, Mr. Yosuke Suga (originally the ‘Iron Chef’ from L’Atelier Joel.
Experience the Ancient Theatrical Art of “Noh” with Luxurique, Japan
Air Canada Adds Vancouver To Frankfurt Direst Flights For any frequent traveller, finding a direct flight to many of the world’s most desirable destinations is like discovering the Holy Grail. If you come from the West Coast of Canada, it is usually quite a rarity. That’s why we were so excited and pleased to see Air Canada make the strategic decision to add some world-class cities to their direct flight offerings from Vancouver. So far, we’ve been able to take advantage of three of these routes - and best of all, we’ve been able to experience them in Business Class and, in my view, on the ultimate plane, the gorgeous new Dreamliner 787.
Sereno Hotels Opens It’s Newest Luxury Property On Lake Como We’re excited to share the big news coming out of Lago Di Como these days, where the rich and famous of the world head to bask on terraces overlooking the deep blue lake waters. “Il Sereno”, sister property to one of our favorite St. Barth getaways, is opening it’s doors very soon and will be the first new hotel located on world famous Lake Como in decades. Designed by famed Milan-based architect and designer Patricia Urquiola, the hotel features 30 over-sized suites, all with their own furnished terraces and prized lake views.
In 2015 we were thrilled to fly from Vancouver to Shanghai direct when Air Canada’s launched this route on one of their first Dreamliner’s. I loved it so much I wrote an article called “The Science of Dreams”, so called because of the technological advances in aviation that have resulted in a flight experience that is vastly superior to any other in the world today. Made with a lightweight composite material, the Dreamliner features a sophisticated electrical system that replaces pneumatics and heavy hydraulics, making this plane lighter and more fuel efficient. This also means it is able to fly at much higher altitudes than other aircraft, at an average of 43,000 feet instead of 37,00 to 38,000 feet, thus making it possible to fly faster, cover longer distances and even avoid more turbulent weather at lower elevations.
Situated on a sunny promontory next to the village of Torno and surrounded by peaceful views of Lake Como’s natural beauty, lush gardens and idyllic small towns, Il Sereno’s location stretches approximately 450 feet along the lake’s eastern shore. Sereno Hotels partnered with Patricia Urquiola and her team to design a contemporary hotel with understated décor – a sharp contrast to the classical designs of other properties that can be found around Lake Como. Enchanting hidden passageways meander alongside lush gardens, encouraging guests to take relaxing strolls on the property or perhaps take a scenic walk to the historic Villa Pliniana located nearby. At the centre of the hotel’s main garden sits a 60-foot, lakefront freshwater infinity pool surrounded by a wide sun-deck and bar where guests can relax on loungers or enjoy light bites and a seductive libation. An icy Bellini or Camparinette, anyone? Adjacent to the pool is a small beach that offers guests direct and convenient access to the lake. With Lake Como known as a destination favoured by discerning celebrities such as George Clooney, Madonna, Donatella Versace and Sir Richard Branson, Le Sereno Lago Di Como certainly sounds like it will be the new place to “see and be seen” – definitely a New Jetsetters kind of place!
ILTM in Cannes is the flagship of ILTM’s Luxury Travel showcases. It’s where the world meets the world! Experience the absolute best in class and do more business in a week than is possible in many months. More contacts, more opportunities, more insights and more markets than anywhere else. New Jetsetters will see you there!
We followed up this fabulous experience with another from Vancouver-Tokyo in 2017, and most recently, Vancouver to Frankfurt, serving to remind us of exactly why we love flying Air Canada Business Class. Excellent Champagne is pouring from the moment you settle into your super-comfortable personal “pod”, you are able to sample some excellent cuisine by non-other than Canadian Celebrity Chef David Hawksworth, with excellent wine pairings harmonized by Véronique Rivest, one of the most respected Sommeliers in Canada and abroad. Also, the Dreamliner’s “Smooth Ride Technology” allows the plane to sense upcoming turbulence and deploy wing flaps to reduce it, so you can sleep even better on your two metre long, lie-flat seat. Not into catching some zzz’s? Your own 18” flat-screen TV will provide you with all the entertainment you need with copious movies, games, TV shows and even podcasts at your fingertips. Of note, although occasionally hit-and-miss, most of the cabin crew were extremely professional and attentive, something that really makes a difference in a flight experience. With a focused view towards strategic global expansion, 2017 has seen Air Canada launching new international services nation-wide. Direct service from Vancouver-Taipei, Vancouver-Nagoya, Vancouver-Frankfurt, Vancouver-London Gatwick, and Vancouver-Melbourne. We proudly work with and support our national carrier, so stay tuned to see where Air Canada will go next by book-marking newjetsetters.com and following us on all our Social Media platforms.
The Ama Divers Of Ise Shima, Japan I saw them through the bus window as we pulled into the courtyard, the late February sun shining down on them like a spotlight, illuminating the small group of women. They were dressed similarly – four women in white, long-sleeve cotton tops, with white scarves enfolding their heads and necks, and long printed skirts – The famous Ama of the Shima Peninsula.
By Deborah Thompson
d ra Pa is e u Fo nd By Deborah Thompson
NEW JETSETTERS GLOSS MAGAZINE
I remember thinking they looked rather fragile as they stood there… like grandmothers patiently waiting for their grandchildren to get off the school bus, patient, weathered faces sketched with warm smiles. My initial impression of fragility could not possibly have been more wrong. Let me tell you why these are some of the least fragile ladies you will ever meet and why I left this experience feeling completely awed, empowered and inspired. “Ama” means “Fisher Woman” in Japanese, but that hardly describes what these women truly are. The Ama Divers are all women who free-dive, without the benefit of equipment except for goggles and an “Isonomi”, a chisel, to pry shellfish from the rocky bottom of the ocean. They are one of the most beloved cultural treasures of Japan, and are the family bread-winners in this Prefecture, carrying on a family tradition that goes back 3,000 years, a proud way of life passed down from grandmother to daughter to granddaughter. The Ama used to dive naked, with only a loincloth until after the 2nd World War, when the cultural mores of the world began to shift, pressuring them to cover up. This was when the term “Mermaids” was often used when describing them. Not wanting to offend the world at large, white cotton outfits took the place of loincloths, and nowadays many of the Ama still wear these. Others have embraced the modern (and warmer), rubber wet-suits. All of them, though, still use only goggles and chisels as their equipment. The noble profession of the Ama Diver is on the decline, though. As you might expect, the number of young women choosing the harsh life of the Ama are fast diminishing, many of them not wanting to support
a family by diving up to four hours every day, rain or shine, with only one day off during the week to relax. The average age of an Ama today is 65 years old. It is a way of life that will most likely die with the next generation, as the world continues to change around us and the effect of climate-change continues to impact the bounty of the sea. But at this moment in time, these women are magnificent to me.
The “50 Second Challenge” Holding their breath for up to 50 seconds (often called the “50 second challenge”) they search for a valuable Japanese staple food, Abalone, as well as Sea Urchins (a special treat), Sea Cucumbers, sweet Spiny Lobster, and enormous Turban Snails before heading back up to the surface. There they deposit their treasures in a “Tanpo”, a ring-float with a net that allows them to rest between dives. While resting, the Ama are famous for the “Isobue” or “Sea Whistle”, a distinctive and plaintive breathing method that mitigates damage to their lungs while diving. Various types of seaweed, another important staple of the Japanese diet, are also harvested by the Ama.
There are two different types of Ama – “Funado Divers” work with a boatman (Tomai) who monitors her dive via a rope tied to her waist, waiting to receive the treasures she collects. The other is the “Kachido Ama” who dive alone, either swimming from shore to their favourite site or taking a boat with other Kachido Ama as a group. I was honoured to meet two Kachido Ama who would be hosting my group in their hut, Hashami Kimiyo and Tomomo Nakashimi. Hamashi was the first to greet me. Her face was beautiful, with rosy cheeks and bright eyes. I was astounded to find out she had been diving for 50 years, holding her breath for 50 seconds at a time. She said she is an Ama because her mother was one, and simply because she “loves the sea”.Tomomo was next, and would be my personal host in the Ama Hut, cooking for us the very shellfish she had just caught that morning. She looked to be the youngest of the group and had a wide, shy smile and gentle voice. With the help of an interpreter, I was astonished to find out she had been diving for 30 years, having started when she was just a teenager, and could hold her breath for 40 seconds. In answer to my question as to why she chose to be an Ama she also said simply: “I love the sea”.
The Ama Hut Experience We were ushered into the cozy warmth of an Ama Hut, a collective “living room” if you will, where two “Kamado” (charcoal fire-pits) radiated a warming bubble of heat. Each pit was surrounded by cozy cushions. I followed the example of Tomomi as she kneeled down, tucking her legs under her. Our place-settings were set before us; a wooden tray with a ceramic plate, chopsticks, a bowl for Miso Soup (Japanese Dashi stock) with Sea Lettuce, and a thick white cotton glove just like the one Tomomi was wearing on her hands for cooking. This was in case any of our dishes were still hot when they handed them to us. I watched Tomami artfully arrange the first course of our meal over the hot embers, the colorful “Appagai” or “goshikigai” meaning “Five-Coloured Shell”, a special product of Shima City. The large sea shells fit their description well, each displaying a variation of mottled brown, tan and green, but each uniquely distinguished with a beautiful, almost neonlike lip of bright orange or purple. As she rearranged the shells on the grill to make way for the next delicacies, large shellfish called “Turban Snails”, I couldn’t get over the fact that just a few hours ago this grandmother was free-diving deep below the surface of the cold Pacific Ocean, holding her breath for 40 seconds to gather this food.
This is truly as close to the currently popular “farm to table” concept as you can get, only you would have to say “from ocean to kamado” in this case. Our small plates were gradually loaded up as we explored the different taste sensations of a traditional Shima meal, I was so excited when the small Spiny Lobster tail was placed before me – my favourite. The flesh was soft, tender and so sweet I felt I could eat about six of them without stopping. Next came a meaty slice of Abalone – registered as a brand of Mie. A charming, traditional Shima City legend says “an expectant woman has children with clear eyes” by eating it. A bowl of freshly cooked sweet rice with “Hijiki”, a seaweed harvested in the Ise-Shima area, and a bowl of the delicious Miso Soup mentioned earlier rounded out this filling and very delicious meal.
Continued on page 112
“Meet You At The Dorchester�
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The Dorchester Hotel London
The Mayfair District in London is known around the world as one of the most distinguished and elegant neighbourhoods in the world. Some of the most elite luxury brands reside in Mayfair, where one can visit Bond Street Tailors for a custom-fitted suit before heading over for some exquisite sweets or a famously decadent hamper from Fortnum and Mason, known as “the most luxurious department store in the world”. If this isn’t enough, stroll past Chanel, Dolce Gabbana, Jimmy Choo, Louis Vuitton and Tiffany & Co. just a few of the swanky brands that call Mayfair home. Small wonder, then, that we should find one of the world’s most recognized luxury hospitality brands, The Dorchester London, located here in Mayfair.
The Dorchester Lobby
The Promenade Restaurant
The Dorchester Bar
Overlooking one of London’s most beautiful green spaces, the Dorchester offers guests serene views of Hyde Park and the glimmering evening lights of the Mayfair streets. Prime location is also part of The Dorchester’s appeal, providing easy access to some of London’s most desirable places to visit – walk to Buckingham Palace, West End Theatres, the Royal Albert Hall and the National Gallery, to name just a few. You may simply prefer to linger inside the elegant interior, where a gorgeous lobby is festooned with grand floral arrangements that complement the deep apricot and malachite hues of the walls, drapes and Rococo style furniture. Plush floral carpets absorb the sound of Chanel boots and Fendi heels, bestowing a hushed intimacy not normally found in a hotel lobby; intricate gold crown moulding's add to the sumptuous palatial feel, as do pillars clad in gleaming Rojo Alicante marble from Spain. Let’s start with the fact that this hotel has consistently been ranked as one of the world’s most famous hotels since it first opened in 1931. Sir Robert McAlpine, who purchased the property in 1929, imagined creating a luxury hotel that would “rank as the finest in Europe”. No doubt he would be pleased to know that his creation has remained just that. Architect William Curtis Green, who would go on to receive the Royal Gold Medal in Architecture, was hired to bring “The Dorchester” to glorious life and he did so with great passion, assembling the bones of what would become one of London’s most iconic landmarks. Next, Oliver Ford, Interior Decorator for the Queen Mother’s residences, was brought on board to flesh out the vast public areas, bringing rich colours, distinctive fabrics and furniture and adding beautiful flower displays, polishing every last detail until The Dorchester achieved it’s destiny. New Jetsetters GLOSS
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UNIQUE ROOM We were treated to an absolutely gorgeous Dorchester Suite with a view over Hyde Park and the streets of Mayfair District. We were ushered into Suites 101/102 – meaning we had an immense space to call our own. Upon entering, a large foyer opened up on the left to a spectacular, cool white marble bathroom with an amazingly deep soaker tub. Our large bedroom offered a charming alcove window seat, perfect for gazing out at the fancy cars in the parking lot and Hyde Park across the boulevard. This room whispered of beautiful dreams; walls papered in tones of cinnamon and cocoa matched the upholstery, throw pillows and creamy golden silk window treatments. Mirrored doors opened to ample closets with more than enough room for hanging suits (and gowns if necessary). A beautiful antique cupboard supported a flatscreen TV for those unwilling to give up the real world for a few days. The King bed was comfortable and dressed with fine custom-made Irish linens; a pleasure to collapse into after a hot bath in the supersoaker tub. One could easily get used to this sort of life.
Dorchester Suite Living room
Dorchester Suite Bedroom
Back at the foyer, another entrance lead to a living room/dining room complete with a mantled fireplace. This room spoke of quiet comfort, with two golden velvet sofas decorated with throw pillows, and upholstered chairs that matched the wallpaper print in the bedroom. Three large windows draped with sheers and valances lent just enough formality to make this room comfortably elegant. A dining area large enough to comfortably seat six people graced one end of the living room; a writing desk complete with every convenience necessary sat at the other end. Stunning Marble Bathroom
NOTEWORTHY DINING AND BAR The Dorchester London Hotel has an embarrassment of riches when it comes to dining options. With five exquisite venues, one of which boasts three Michelin stars, you will no doubt want to experience each one. We can comment on only two of them; a small breakfast in The Promenade and a wondrous dinner at The Grill, where Alain Ducasse celebrates contemporary French cuisine. This restaurant visually retains its 1940’s influence while at the same time featuring some impressive modern touches such as the “Table Lumière”, lit by 4500 fibre optic lights and surrounded by a thin white curtain which allows guests to maintain privacy, yet still have a view out into the restaurant. Continued on page 113
EVERYTHING YOU DREAMED OF. Welcome to a new flying experience onboard Air Canada’s Boeing 787 Dreamliner airplane.
787 ROUTES Air Canada is pleased to offer a growing list of select flights and routes served by our fleet of Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft.
We thought the bullet train between Tokyo and Nagano was fast, efficient and super comfortable. Little did we know that East Japan Railway has been working hard on taking the already highly acclaimed Japanese mode of transit to a whole new level of luxury with the introduction of the spectacular Shiki-Shima train. By C Griffin
New Jetsetters GLOSS 31
They call it “Train Suite Shiki-Shima” and if just the catchy name makes you sit up and take notice, listen to what’s in store for lucky passengers. Let’s just say that luxury train travel has now reached new heights. The brand new Shiki-Shima (meaning “Island of Four Seasons”) is quite the marvel of design and comfort. The exterior of the train is an elegant mix of contemporary Japanese design and artisan craftsmanship. Designed by Ken Okuyama, a Japanese industrial designer (and the only non-Italian to have designed a Ferrari), a unique combination of wood and washi paper was used in the interiors, adding interest and texture, and blending the cosmopolitan feel with a respectful nod to “Hahanaru Shizen” (Mother Nature) creating a modern yet tranquil ambiance. The forest-themed lounge has curved goldmetal “branches” lining the interior walls, a black piano, a modern glass fireplace (using steam for safety) and eye-catching Herringbone parquet wood flooring. The elegant restaurant car – complete with half-moon shaped tables, artisan lacquer ware and custom designed cutlery – is home to a French-inspired menu using seasonal ingredients derived from local flavours and products grown in the landscapes found along the train route.
The mouth-watering menu has been created by Katsuhiro Nakamura, the first Japanese Chef to receive a Michelin star. There are two observatory cars at either end of the train that offer raised seating areas with curved walls, futuristic cut-out windows, white leather seating and a grassgreen carpet, all designed to make you feel like you are immersed in the lush surroundings. Accommodations consist of suites, deluxe suites and the best of the best, the “ShikiShima Suite” a designer 2-floor space with a private onsen bath and heated kotatsu (a sunken, heated wooden table) to keep travellers warm as they speed through the landscape. This suite also boasts a Japanese cypress bathtub. The 10 exclusive designer cars come with a steep price. A 3-night, 4-day journey through Japan costs 950,000 yen (about $8000) per person but despite the hefty price-tag there is clearly a market for such a luxury as the train is already sold out until March 2018. The Train Suite Shiki-Shima will have its own dedicated “platform” at Ueno Station in Tokyo. If you have a yen for luxury train travel in Japan and the Shiki-Shima doesn’t fit the bill, the new Twilight Express Mizukaze, a 10-car deluxe sleeper train covering western Japan, launches in June.
Street Life In Istanbul
The Hagia Sophia
The Basilica Cistern
The Four Seasons Sultanahmet
Romance In Central Park + The Luxury Of Boutique Hotels
LOOK WAY UP! Our Exclusive NYC Supplement
A Passion For Fashion + The Rooftops Of New York City
LOOK WAY UP! The Rooftops Of New York City
New York is well known for 5 star hotels, Broadway, Central Park and glamorous 5th Avenue shops, but we have one more reason for you to visit the Big Apple – the amazing selection of rooftop lounges and bars. On a recent visit to Gotham we investigated 6 trendy Manhattan hotspots to see what was up (so to speak) with these popular watering holes. Also, a little research on the ambiance, location and liquid offerings available was necessary, just so we could recommend one (or two) that may be right for you. We hope you appreciate our sacrifice.
Bookmarks Lounge – 14th Floor, The Library Hotel Located just a block from the NYC Public Library, Bookmarks Lounge continues the dedicated theme of The Library Hotel in which it is located, providing a warm, comfortably casual environment. The outside terrace area is on the small side, but the space is well utilized with seating areas and a couple of high-top tables. There are also three cozy indoor rooms that enhance the intimate experience. As a party of two we were not able to make a reservation, but if you arrive early, shortly after 4:00 PM, you should be able to nab a good spot to relax. Service was top notch; you are greeted by a smiling hostess as the elevator door slides open, then escorted to a seating area of your choice. Drinks arrived promptly but we have to add here that they just barely passed the classic Martini test (too heavy on the vermouth) and the iconic
“twist” consisted of a chunky slice of lemon peel – a personal pet peeve of mine). Bookmarks offered a limited appetizer menu, but the small plates arrived fast and were very tasty. Overall we enjoyed the environment and friendly service. It offers a nice clubby feel, perfect for after work or pre-dinner cocktails, but it’s not the place to choose for a New York skyline view.
Refinery Rooftop – Top of the Refinery Hotel I have mixed feeling about the Refinery Rooftop. It has a central location on West 38th Street and boasts three large, distinct sections; an indoor area, an outdoor terrace, and an indoor-outdoor patio with a retractable glass roof. The space is very nicely finished in wood and brick befitting the history of the building, but I can’t decide if it’s supposed to be an upmarket lounge, a trendy Manhattan bar, or a casual restaurant. We were told they didn’t take reservations for parties of two so we decided to drop in mid-afternoon and give it a try. It was busy, but we managed to get a table “for 1 hour only” because it was reserved for a party arriving later. Drink service was friendly but very slow and inconsistent due to the fact that three servers were busy entertaining a kid’s baseball team who looked very out of place alongside women in cocktail dresses and men in suits. It had more of a Denny’s vibe than that of a New York Lounge. Unfortunately there was no time for us to sample food. The party next to us tried to order snacks but were told they wouldn’t have time to eat because their table was also reserved and they would have to leave shortly. We left, unimpressed, hoping to give it a second try later that evening. We asked our concierge to phone them and see if we could get in. He tried multiple times but the phone just rang and was never answered. You decide.
Spyglass Rooftop Bar – 22nd floor of the Archer Hotel I liked the Archer hotel. It’s a funky, warm and friendly spot not far from the Refinery Hotel that offers a completely different vibe. Twenty two floors up you’ll find the Spyglass Rooftop Bar which consists of two outdoor terraces and a long narrow indoor bar. It is certainly the place to go if you’re looking for a fantastic view of the Empire State building. How’s the ambiance? Imagine a Las Vegas ultra-lounge but with good drinks and service.
Bookmarks Lounge
Refinery Rooftop
Spyglass Rooftop Bar
As warm weather rolls in, Gothamites gear up for seasonal activities, including outdoor dining, spring art shows and enjoying cocktails with a view at the city's best rooftop bars. From trendy hot spots at some of the best hotels in NYC to low-key first-date hideaways, raise a glass to the best rooftop bars in Gotham.
Salon De Ning
We had a table reservation outside on the patio but unfortunately New York weather did not cooperate, with heavy rain and a serious thunder and lightning show pushing us inside to the bar. Nonetheless, service was very good and they passed the martini test with flying colours, complete with a perfect lime twist. Snacks and shares were also very good. Try the roasted mushroom flatbread with Maitake & Oyster Mushrooms and gruyere cheese. It was a great spot to chill and enjoy a couple of cocktails with a great view, but get there early as it filled up to bursting within an hour of our arrival. Hint – keep yourBookmarks eyes open for the old telescope Jimmy Stewart Lounge looked through in the classic Alfred Hitchcock movie “Rear Window”.
Salon De Ning – Top of the Peninsula Hotel
Skylark Lounge
Bar Sixty Five
With a great location just off 5th Avenue, and the prestigious Peninsula Hotel name behind it, we were really looking forward to the “Salon De Ning”. What a disappointment. The large rooftop space features two outdoor terraces complemented by an intimate interior bar, but the design and finish were minimal and the ambiance is best described as pretentious. Filled with restless bankers, hedge fund managers and their “partners”, it was a far cry from the refined “Peninsula” atmosphere we have experienced and enjoyed many times on our Asia travels. With no hostess in sight we wandered until finally being approached by a server. We were told we could sit at the communal lounger until a table became available. When one did, a new arrival simply walked out and sat at it after we’d been waiting for an hour. Service ranged from slow to non-existent, with incorrect cocktails delivered and empty glasses left on our table. Needless to say, we did not bother to even try any of the small plates. I am very seldom critical of the places we visit, choosing instead to move on without comment, but in this case I must check the “Major Disappointment” box. In our opinion, this place is not worthy of your time or money.
Skylark Lounge – 30 Stories Up in the Heart of Times Square We discovered very early in the process that there are simply too many unique rooftop venues in NYC to cover in a single article so we focused on Mid Town Manhattan with the intention of getting a taste and feel for the vibe in a select number of venues. We apologize if we missed your favorite watering hole.
The Skylark can best be described as a classicallystyled cocktail lounge with panoramic views of the Hudson River, Hudson Yards and Times Square. Entering through a small door off the street you find yourself in a very dark corridor that appears to be in an abandoned warehouse.
You then find yourself being whisked up in an elevator to the rooftop; just the beginning of the Skylark experience. We had been able to secure a rare table reservation and enjoyed a nice indoor view of Times Square with very comfortable furnishings in the “Living Room”. The outdoor terrace was more of a free flowing, standing room only area, with views of the Empire State Building and the twinkling NYC skyline. Service was fast and efficient and the cocktails creatively inspired. Hint – try the lobster rolls and chicken tacos. If you are looking for a warm, inviting atmosphere with room to move and mingle, this just might be the bar for you.
Bar 65 – 65th Floor of 30 Rockefeller Plaza Bar 65 at the Rainbow Room is well known as New York City’s highest outdoor terrace bar, but the stunning indoor space is also wonderful. Delicious bistro bites and a truly wonderful, curated cocktail menu is offered. Service was top notch from the moment we arrived at the Rockefeller Plaza Mezzanine and were shuttled up the private elevator, and escorted to our reserved, outdoor terrace table. The ambiance was refined and comfortable, chill soundtracks set a sexy tone, and I have to say that the outdoor terrace views from Central Park to the Manhattan skyline are jaw dropping.
YOTEL New York's 7,000 sqft Terrace
LOOK WAY UP! A Passion For Fashion: “Style Room” New York
The stretch limo rolls to a smooth stop – right in front of you and your best friends. You step inside, sinking into a sinfully soft leather seat. A bottle of champagne is chilling on ice, tempting your tastebuds with the promise of tiny bubbles. Raising your champagne glass high in the air, smiles and laughter coincide with the tinkle of a toast. It could be to health, or it could be to happiness – or both.
Perhaps you are toasting to a future of more fabulous birthdays, or to a bittersweet last trip with friends as a single girl. Or, it could simply be “Here’s To a Fabulous Day of SHOPPING”! What makes it extra special? Well, let’s just say “it’s not just anywhere” – and it’s “not just with anyone”. It’s in New York City. With your best friends. In the company of a New York fashion industry expert who will be taking you to some of the most amazing, trendy small designers the world has not heard of…. Yet! Karen Parker O’Brien is the indisputable Queen of Bespoke Shopping, and I had the chance to see why so many ladies from so many different walks of life choose to spend anywhere from a half day all the way up to five days in a row shopping with the President and Owner of Style Room NYC Shopping Tour Experiences on her “Behind Locked Doors” tour. I first meet Karen at an address she has texted to me this morning – a secret location in the Garment District of New York City. I have arrived a little early and am waiting under the watchful eye of the building concierge when she comes through the revolving lobby door. With her tall, lean frame, perfect skin, and dressed in a classic, floor length “little black dress”, Karen could have just stepped
off the catwalk, her warm smile and laughing eyes make me feel like I’m meeting a trusted friend, despite the fact we have never even met before. Our first secret designer is located in this building, and before the elevator doors close we are already chatting like two school girls; I’m anxious to know more about this savvy business woman and how she came to be President and Founder of this unique service, and she is anxious to introduce me to the jewelry designer we are on our way to see. I am forbidden to share the names or locations of the designers we visit; Karen works closely with her contacts and brings clients into their studio’s and workshops – in return, clients are treated to a sizable discount – from 40 to 65% off the listed price. It’s a win-win situation for all involved – Karen is able to attract a loyal clientele who appreciate exposure to exciting new designers, their fresh creations and the heavily discounted rate; the designers are able to meet a new and appreciative customer base who may become loyal clients and who otherwise might never find them in the saturated shopping mecca of New York City. As we arrive at the small studio, we are greeted with warm enthusiasm and invited to sit for awhile to cool
New Jetsetters GLOSS 41
down from the heat and humidity of the Manhattan streets. As we re-hydrate with bottled water we begin browsing through the glittering collection of jewelry that adorns the wall, I ask Karen to tell me a little about her background. The animated President of “Style Room NYC Shopping Tour Experiences” hails from the North Shore of Long Island, NY, where, she explained, “becoming involved in the fashion industry at some point in life is pretty well a given”. Surprisingly, she credits her father, an Engineer, for starting her on this unique career in the industry. How so, you might ask? According to Karen, the moment she picked up a pair of needle-nosed pliers from his work desk and started fashioning bracelets for her friends in the 9th grade, her passion for style was born. Trips with her mother to New York City’s “Bead District” inspired her even further, and soon she was filling tackle boxes with beautiful beads and semiprecious stones for her designs. Then she began soliciting shops to sell her creations, learning the wholesale side of the business. By the end of high school, Karen had two jewelry companies to her name and was employing other students and friends as manufacturers and salespeople. After studying Business at Hofstra University, Karen began working with small designers from around
the world, bringing their unique collections to the attention of Department Stores such as Barney’s and Bergdorf Goodman. Forging relationships on both sides of the runway, Karen was provided with a unique view of how to deal with designers, manufacturers, salespeople and customers alike – a perfect springboard from which Karen could leap into the glamorous world of Private Shopping. At this point, she knew she didn’t want to own a store or be a salesperson – “I never wanted to wait for the client to come to me” she explained., “I wanted to always find the client and make the connection myself”. Finding success working with small designers, Karen realized the next natural step was to start her own company – one which would draw on her skills and experience. Style Room NYC was born, offering bespoke shopping experiences and joining clients with the perfect designers and styles for their tastes. How has she found such success? A few weeks before I met Karen she touched base with me a number of times to find out my dress size, my preferences, whether I would like to see active wear, formal or casual lines. Wow! It didn’t stop there. Continued on page 114
mayakoba.com
divine and right From its inception, Mayakoba was conceived as a resort development like no other. The design was to follow the contours of the existing geography . . . to enhance, not replace, the natural environment . . . Architects were joined by biologists, geologists and engineers to map out a way to find separate but connected locations for the planned development. The result was a Master Planned retreat which now welcomes visitors and residents from the four corners of the Earth to a triumph of conservation.
Banyan Tree Mayakoba | Rosewood Mayakoba | Fairmont Mayakoba | Andaz Mayakoba | El Camaleon golf course | The OHL Classic at Mayakoba
LOOK WAY UP!
Romance in the Park: A Carriage Ride with Central Park Sightseeing
The rays of a late morning New York City sun warmed my face and shoulders as I sank into the cushy red velvet seat of the carriage. The walk from our hotel in mid-Manhattan to Central Park had taken us along some of the busiest streets, dodging masses of rushing bodies and exposing our eardrums to the relentless honking of yellow taxi cabs. The frenetic pace and uniquely pungent smells of the city streets had left my nerves rattled and my body tense. The soft cushions felt like absolute heaven. In front of me I could see two furry white ears sticking up above the red flowers that decorated our cab. Oscar shuffled impatiently, seeming to be anxious to depart. Oh, by the way, it was not our driver who had furry white ears – it was Oscar. The horse. By Deborah M. Thompson
We settled back, looking forward to the 50 minute horse and carriage ride. Central Park unfolded in layers of emerald and moss green on our right side, an oasis of calm, a stark contrast to the hectic downtown core and glimmering skyscrapers on our left. At approximately 800 acres, Central Park is said to be the most visited park in the U.S.; statistics show it hosted 40 million people in 2013. Visitors come for a plethora of reasons, to see where the locations from their favorite movies were filmed, to find welcome relief from the hot sun, to revel in the sense of peace with every leaf waving in the breeze. As John, our driver, settled onto his perch he adjusted his jaunty cap and peered back at us with smiling eyes, describing his typical route and asking us if we had anything in particular we wanted to see on our 50-minute tour of Central Park. Hearing that we trusted him to show us the best of the park seemed to make John very happy. As he urged Oscar into a gentle walk, he told us with enthusiasm about the route we would take through Central Park West, encompassing sections of “The Great Lawn”, “The Mall”, “Strawberry Fields” and “Sheep Meadow”, culminating at the entrance to “Tavern on The Green” a historic, iconic NYC landmark where we would be having lunch on the famous outdoor terrace. I’d never been on a horse and carriage-ride; to tell
The Huangpu River, which divides the bustling city of Shanghai between East and West, is known as “Mother River”. It winds its way in a languorous fashion, undulating with the currents like a long, golden-green tail from a Chinese Dragon Dance, a sparkling backdrop for the thousands of vessels that ply the length of this 71 mile long and 1/4 mile wide waterway. It is on the Pudong side that we discover two classic, uniquely different 5 star hotels.
the truth, I had often thought about how fun and romantic it must be, but always worried that the horses might somehow be abused. I never want to participate in any activity that would cause an animal to be harmed or abused. For this reason, the day before we planned on taking the horse and carriage tour we’d come for a look at them, lined up along the roadway beside Central Park. The Central Park Sightseeing horses all looked very well groomed and cared for. There were water buckets for hydration and some had pails of food nearby. Before climbing in, I’d taken a close look at Oscar for any signs of possible distress. He just stared back at me with his huge, long-lashed brown eyes, nuzzling my hand as I stroked his soft nose and muzzle. I decided to trust the positive vibes Oscar was sending out! Before we headed into the park, Oscar stopped to have a good, long drink from a big bucket of fresh water, a ritual observed before every tour, apparently. I could see how much John cared about Oscar. He explained to me that he owned Oscar as well as another horse; each one would spend a month or two on the Central Park tour, then it would be sent back to his farm in Pennsylvania for a couple of months of some R&R and TLC. So off we went, the slow pace of the horse perfect for relaxing and enjoying the park. By Deborah Thompson
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LOOK WAY UP! Boutique Bliss In New York And Beyond
The “Luxury” of Boutique Hotels It’s all about uniqueness, aesthetics, atmosphere, and a higher level of service that many of todays larger properties struggle to deliver. Two of the first boutique hotels in the world opened their doors to the public in 1981: The Blakes Hotel in South Kensington, London, and the Bedford in Union Square, San Francisco. But the real “Boutique Experience” seems to have begun when American entrepreneurs and business partners Ian Schrager and Steve Rubell opened Morgan’s Hotel in New York in 1984. As Co-Founders of 70’s era worldfamous Studio 54, Schrager and Rubell had their fingers firmly on the pulse of popular culture. When they decided to turn their attention to hotels, the “Boutique Hotel Experience” was begun. Suddenly the hotel lobby became a new kind of gathering place and “cheap chic”affordable luxury was offered in a stylish and sophisticated environment. Fast forward 35 years and the Boutique Hotel Experience has become the “Luxury” Boutique Hotel experience. The concept has clearly gathered momentum, evolving in many different and wonderful directions, but they all seem to share some common traits.
A sense of intimacy and utilization of a “concept design property” distinguishes them from larger, branded hotels, the smaller size allowing guests to access ultra-personalized service. Accommodations are usually unique and stunning; no “cookie-cutter” rooms allowed. Décor plays a major role as well; with just the right amount of individuality combined with high quality materials and designer furnishings. Quirky touches are often used to create a memorable visual experience that will reconnect the guest with the property long after they have stayed there. Bespoke amenities are always a part of the experience such as a pillow menu, top of the line linens and designer toiletries. The latest technology has also become a staple of the boutique hotel experience and goes well beyond a traditional iPod docking station. Think personal in-suite tablets, smart TV’s, and in some cases, cell phones to keep the guest in touch with Concierge and Front Desk personnel at all times.
Social spaces such as living rooms, libraries or an intimate cocktail lounge are another important feature of many boutique hotels, but it seems the most important defining characteristic is the emphasis on connecting guests with the culture, history and authenticity of the destination and its people. These qualities have now become de rigeur, not only for luxury boutique hotels but now also for the vast majority of traditional 5 star luxury properties. The true common denominator? Be it ultra-modern, classic, historic or themed, all luxury boutique hotels have their own unique and special way of connecting with their guests by making them feel special and pampered, and by surpassing their expectations. Boutique hotels have been around for a long time. Many believe the concept originated in the 1980’s in cities like London, New York, and San Francisco, where land and building costs were extremely high. The concept of building smaller, more intimate and thus more unique accommodations became desirable.
La Chèvre d’Or
Ashford Castle
The magnificent five star Ashford Castle is set in 350 acres on the picturesque shores of Lough Corrib. Dating back to 1228, the castle now enters a new chapter in its history as a member of The Red Carnation Hotel Collection. With 83 spectacular rooms, suites and a Lakeside Cottage to choose from, guests will enjoy a wealth of activities and plenty of thoughtful touches as well as acclaimed Irish hospitality on a grand scale. Each of the rooms, suites and the Cottage at Ashford Castle represent traditional elegance and finesse. Following extensive refurbishment, rooms and suites have been individually and lovingly redesigned, combining the castle’s original features with the latest modern luxuries. Chef Philippe Farineau adds finesse and style to the dishes offered in the four main dining rooms – whether it’s fine dining in the grandeur of the George V Dining Room, casual dining in the comfortable setting of Cullen’s at the Cottage or some informal fare at The Dungeon. Upholding a tradition dating back to 1868, guests may also indulge in a delicious Afternoon Tea served in The Connaught Room with magnificent views across the gardens and Lough Corrib.
Miramonti Boutique Hotel
Located in the medieval village of Eza on a cliff between Monaco and Nice high above the Mediterranean, La Chèvre d’Or offers guests a charming stroll along cobblestone paths that lead to individually decorated rooms, most with majestic views of the sea far below. Hungry guests can savour the great classics of French gastronomy as well as Mediterranean specialties in one of their four restaurants, where delicious cuisine and fine wines are enhanced by the sky-high stunning views. “Les Remparts” serves Mediterranean dishes on a terrace with views over the bay to St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. After the meal, guests can wander the cobblestone streets of the medieval cliff-side village after the day-trippers have departed, taking in the glorious panorama of sea and sky. The ‘La Chèvre d’Or’ gourmet restaurant (2 Michelin® Stars) is a gastronome’s dream, with Executive Chef Ronan Karvarrec revealing a magical, finely nuanced blend of flavours and fragrances with each dish. With his modern kitchens housed in medieval buildings, Chef offers carefully selected local ingredients that balance exquisitely complex textures and Mediterranean flavours. The “Bar du Chateau” is a cozy and unique place to meet.
Nestled between majestic snow-capped mountains and emerald forests, Miramonti Boutique Hotel is in a magical setting. Spacious and cosy, contemporary and traditional, it’s perfect for a snowy sojourn or summertime escape. With an interior design incorporating a serene combination of rich wood and creamy whites and an exterior boasting peaked gables that echo the snowy mountains that surround it, this is a hotel that connects itself and guests with its natural surroundings. Unwind in the spa with steam baths and saunas that seem carved from the rocks. Indulge in a spot of fine dining with a 360-degree Alpine vista. Or, hire the hotel’s classic Alfa Romeo and zip off into the countryside.
Grand Case, St. Martin
Le Sirenuse
Sophia Luxury Suites
Le Sirenuse opened in 1951 when four Neapolitan siblings, the Marchesi Aldo, Paolo, Anna and Franco Sersale, turned their summer house in Positano into a charming hotel overlooking the bay of Positano. Today the 58-room Luxury Boutique Resort is considered one of Italy’s leading seaside luxury hotels, though it still retains the intimate, cultured atmosphere of a private home. The Michelin-starred “La Sponda Restaurant” serves delicious Mediterranean cuisine with a menu based on fresh local ingredients and inspired by the great culinary traditions of Naples and the Amalfi Coast. Elegantly reflecting Positano’s dolce vita, La Sponda is illuminated in the evening by four hundred candles that create an unforgettable atmosphere. Their Champagne & Oyster Bar enjoys breathtaking views over the tiered hillsides of Positano. Weather permitting, it is open from May to mid-October, offering sumptuous furnishings and a resident DJ spinning seductive tunes
The Sophia Luxury Suites are located on one of the world’s most beautiful islands, Santorini, Greece. Perched above the famous Caldera, this hotel boasts breathtaking views and sumptuous sunsets. The luxury suites have been beautifully renovated, providing privacy and luxury and exuding intimacy and romance. The majority of the rooms and suites feature either indoor or outdoor hot tubs; two exclusive suites hide a stunning, indoor heated pool. The three Sophia Honeymoon Suites provide all modern amenities and conveniences to ensure an experience of absolute luxury in fabulous surroundings. The privileged location of the Honeymoon Suites provides a magical view of the Caldera, while the stylish interiors carefully marry design with magical vistas. The spacious terrace and the comfortable lounging areas invite romantic journeys of love and tranquility. The Suites offer a king size bed, luxurious amenities, rain shower, an interior plunge pool and an exterior Jacuzzi.
The Geejam Collection
The Library Hotel
Geejam Hotel has it all – a blending of all the creature comforts of home with the vibrancy of authentic Jamaican culture. Nestled amongst the wild beauty of a tropical forest, this intimate property boasts a handful of Deluxe Cabins, one Suite, and three spacious villas nestled into the surrounding countryside. One of it’s most unique features is the state-ofthe-art Recording Studio. A “Healing Spa” adds to the allure, as do the private swimming pools at each Villa, a Gym and the popular “Bushbar” restaurant, turning out new twists on typical Jamaican cuisine. The result is an exclusive gem of a property that merges with the natural beauty of the surroundings. Nominated by the Jamaican Press as one of the “top ten most fascinating places to hang out,” the Bushbar sits at the edge of the rainforest with day views of the aquamarine ocean. The overall allure of Geejam is their mantra of a grassroots approach to relaxation, restoration and reinvention.
The Library Hotel concept is inspired by the Dewey Decimal system. Each of the 10 floors honour one of the 10 categories of the Dewey Decimal System, and each of the 60 rooms are uniquely adorned with a collection of books and art exploring a distinctive topic within the category it belongs to. Guests are invited to unwind from their urban adventures by enjoying the quiet exploration of over 6,000 books. Every evening the 14th Floor transforms its “Writer’s Den and Poetry Garden” terrace into “Bookmarks Lounge”, an intimate rooftop bar offering literary-inspired cocktails with city views. The Library Hotel’s Reading Room, located on the second floor, is available to guests 24 hours a day, offering magnificent views of Madison Avenue and Library Way and features hundreds of books for browsing. With a selection of complimentary teas, coffee, cappuccino, espresso, cafe au lait alongside trays of cookies and fruits, this is the perfect place to relax.
A WORLD OF SOPHISTICATED BEAUTY
ARMANI Hotel Dubai
Armanihotels.com dubai@armanihotels.com
By Deborah Thompson
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Never Just Stay Stay Inspired
The CONRAD Tokyo The view beyond the 8-meter high, wall-to-wall windows of Bar Twenty-Eight at the Conrad Tokyo is nothing to be trifled with. These are some serious windows, and this high up in the sky a stunning vista is pretty much assured no matter what time of day or night you visit. In fact, it is almost impossible not to stop on your way through the 28th floor reception lobby just to unleash your inner eagle and grab an eyeful of beauty. And so it was that only three days into our stay at the Conrad Tokyo we already had a “usual table� at Bar Twenty-Eight, a cozy spot overlooking the emerald beauty of Hamarikyu Gardens far below and the shimmering blue of Tokyo Bay stretching out beyond the city limits.
WHAT'S SO GREAT ABOUT IT The sun had just set, leaving wisps of pink clouds tethered to the tops of skyscrapers and Tokyo Bay suffused with a dusting of rose. Block by block, twinkling lights took over the cityscape, the bustling concrete jungle slowly morphing into a sparkling black velvet canvas. We sank into the comfortable chairs with muffled sighs, happy to be off our feet for the first time in many hours. It had occurred to us earlier in the day that perhaps the Conrad Tokyo was just a little too perfectly located to some of Tokyo’s most interesting areas and upmarket shopping districts – specifically the glittering high-fashion district of Ginza, stuffed to overflowing with the flagship stores of just about every luxury brand known to man – and more. But that’s another story. We didn’t need to consult a menu to know what we wanted, but something remarkable happened as our smiling server approached. “Would you like your “usual” tonight?” she asked. The shocked expression on both of our faces must have been very amusing because she laughed and said: “Two very dry, cold martini’s – one with Vodka and olives, and one with Gin and a twist”. “Perfect!” we gasped. She laughed again and added: “and will you be having our delicious Seaweed French Fries again tonight?” If I could have raised my eyebrows any higher they would have disappeared into my scalp. Our third night at the hotel and she knew what we fancied? As we nodded speechlessly, she added “It’s lovely to see you again Mr. and Mrs. Thompson”. Well that just about did me in.
The Conrad Tokyo Exterior
The Conrad Lobby
Bar Twenty Eight
RECEPTION AND SERVICE From being escorted to our room after check-in, providing a briefing on room amenities, luggage arriving within moments of entering the room, everyone performed their duties with pride and warmth. There was even staff posted in the lobby to observe guests coming – to greet them with a smile and see if they needed assistance with finding their way – and for those departing, rushing to call the elevator before you could extend your arm to push the button yourself. From Reception to Room Service, Restaurant Staff to Bartenders, every person we encountered was faultless in ensuring we were happy and comfortable during our stay. New Jetsetters GLOSS
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Sometimes it is difficult to get excited about travelling to a large city and staying at a big-city hotel. No matter where it is, travellers often find uninspired accommodations, noisy rooms, perfunctory staff, and “cookie cutter” restaurants and lounges. We have sometimes returned home after a city trip feeling disappointed, unsure of what “sense of place” we were able to identify, and occasionally almost relieved to be home. We’re very happy to say this was not the case after our recent stay at The Conrad Tokyo.
DESIGN AND AMBIENCE
A One Bedroom Suite
Collage Restaurant
The Famous Conrad Bears
The design of the Conrad Tokyo is contemporary without being cold, understated without being boring, and elegant without being opulent. It is also filled to the brim with the latest technology. Even a visit to the lobby restroom will find you staring in some confusion at the dizzying choice of activities you might wish to engage in while you are in the toilet. The little pictures associated with each option did little to clarify exactly what each button did – I’m afraid I’ve never been an accomplished “visual instruction” decipherer. I have to admit to feeling actually quite stupid, trying to figure out just which button would just initiate the flushing mechanism, terrified I would press the wrong button and either water or hot air would start shooting into the air, or I would perhaps somehow get sucked down into the toilet itself. The Conrad Tokyo lobby is on the 28th floor. Many of the world’s big city hotels are choosing this model, establishing themselves in multipurpose buildings on the higher floors, cohabiting with retail units and/or luxury residences. Aside from the fact that we sometimes find these “interior hotels” a little more challenging to find, we quite like the concept. Generally, rooms at the tops of these towers have spectacular views, there is no traffic or street noise, and one really has the feeling of being “tucked away” in the clouds. Amazingly, the lobby design here is at once vast, yet not impersonal by any means. A large bank of check-in counters meant that we never saw long line-ups for people checking in or out. We rarely had to wait even two minutes to speak with someone at the front desk. The aforementioned “Bar Twenty-Eight” features a long, low gas fireplace on one side, giving the super-modern design of the bar a warm and welcoming ambiance, especially at night. Continued on page 116
AN OASIS OF GLAMOUR AND GRANDEUR AN ENCHANTING “RESORT WITHIN A RESORT”
THE CANYON SUITES AT THE PHOENICIAN 6000 East Camelback Road, Scottsdale, AZ USA 85251 480 941 8200 Contact Us | LuxuryCollection.com
An Evening Of Food And Wine In Florence A Walks of Italy Experience
“Food is a central activity of mankind and one of the single most significant trademarks of a culture�. Mark Kurlansky - New York Times Best Selling, James A. Beard Award-Winning Author
When we heard that Walks of Italy were launching a gastronomic “Dine Around Florence” Tour, we couldn’t wait to sign up. After trusting Walks of Italy in past vacations to show us the very best of Rome and Venice, we knew this was going to be an evening to remember, and a food experience was something we’d never done before. I was curious, though, how we would feel about a “Dine Around” experience. We wouldn’t be looking at works of art or learning about important historical personalities. Would it be interesting enough? It turns out that sampling authentic local cuisine in the beating culinary heart of Italy’s Oltrarno neighbourhood and sharing smiles, food and drink with friendly locals is truly a fabulous experience.
We had booked three tours with Walks of Italy on this trip and we’d had a fabulous afternoon in the company of “Ismael” who introduced us to the history and background of Michelangelo’s “David” and the wonders of the Duomo. As we gathered in the square for the Florence Food Tour we were pleased to see we were going to once again be in his company. We were accompanied by a family with three teenaged kids who initially looked a little bored and unhappy to be on this tour, but soon got into the spirit as Ismael’s enthusiasm caught on and the eating started. Knowing we were going to be spending our evening munching on some of the best local food one can get in Florence, we hadn’t eaten much during the day. My tummy was grumbling with hunger as we made our way over the beautiful “Ponte Vecchio”, an ancient “closed” stone bridge. As one of the oldest bridges in the world, in medieval times it was lined with butcher shops and tanners. One can only imagine what this beautiful river must have looked and smelled like at that time. Indeed, my imagination can’t be far from the truth because, in 1593 “Duke Ferdinand I” decided he’d had enough of the garbage and foul smells, and ruled that only goldsmiths and jewellers would have permission to hold shops on Ponte Vecchio, which is still the case to this day. As we stopped to take some photographs of boats bobbing on the current of the Arno River as it flowed under the bridge, Ismael pointed out the Vasari Corridor, a walkway built above the bridge at the order of Cosimo I de' Medici in the 16th century. Named after Giorgio Vasari who built it, the purpose of this private corridor was to allow the reigning members of the Medici family to safely access the stunning Palazzo Vecchio from the Palazzo Pitti without fear of assault or having to mix with the peons. The interior of the Vasari Corridor was (and reportedly still is) filled with the Medici Family’s personal treasures, from paintings done by the Masters to objets d’art and priceless sculptures. Just over the bridge, Ismael introduced us to the “Oltrarno” neighbourhood. Here we started at a tiny bar, or “Enoteca” called “Fiaschetteria”, sitting outside on their small terrace. Soon we were being plied with an assortment of delicious cheeses, including some excellent Pecorino from Pienza (made with sheep milk), cold cuts, and a sampling of Tuscan Bruschetta accompanied by a variety of local olive oils and balsamic vinegars. A healthy tasting of Italian
wines was also part of the experience, as we sampled not only some excellent Chianti Classico but also a Super Tuscan and a tasty white wine from San Gimignano made from the Vernaccia grape. Ismael expertly guided us through the variety of tastes, explaining how and why the key ingredients used in many classic Italian meals differ in taste and presentation so much from one end of Italy to the other. “The gentle art of gastronomy is a friendly one. It hurdles the language barrier, makes friends among civilized people and warms the heart.” Samuel Chamberlain- American Soldier, Painter, and Author
From Fiaschetteria, Ismael guided us along Oltrarno’s bustling side-streets, our small group blending easily with the locals so we did not feel like we were being intrusive. As we strolled past charming local shops selling everything from glittering chandeliers to enormous Pinocchio figures, Ismael shared his stories and some history of the area, pointing out the latest Italian fashions, cheese and olive oil shops, antique furniture shops and anything you could possibly think of. Our next stop was a small Deli where a high-top table was reserved for our group, loaded with plates of cold meats, cheeses, honey, and delicious bread with olive-oil and, of course, more excellent wine. Here Ismael helped me to choose a number of specialty honeys from bees that feed from specific areas of Italy. I chose a “Miele Di Marruca” only produced in the area of Maremma in Tuscany where the bees feed on a shrub growing spontaneously in the Mediterranean scrub. Another one I found is Dolcezze dell’Amiata, where bees feed on succulent flowers that grow in Mount Amiata, an extinct volcano that produced one of the largest lava domes in the region. Like wine, honey can have a stunning variety of flavours, smooth and sweet or wild and intense, depending on what the bees feed on. Gorgeous bottles of Olive Oil are also for sale, and you won’t want to miss purchasing at least one or two bottles to remind you of your time in Tuscany when you get home. Ismael shared many interesting stories and facts with us as we strolled the neighbourhoods of Oltrarno, surprising us by taking us down a nondescript street called “Via Maggio”. He pointed up above our heads, and we all craned our necks to see what he was pointing at.
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To my surprise, there halfway up the wall was a very familiar face. It was the world-renowned visage of the Mona Lisa smiling down at us. As Ismael explained, Monalisa Gherardini was born into a family that, although once wealthy, found themselves eventually facing a significant step down in fortune. With the Gherardini glory fading, her father moved the family into a converted wool shop on a “squalid street” in a working class neighbourhood where Monalisa was born. Who could possibly have ever predicted that this baby girl, born in the humblest neighbourhood in a small village in Italy would one day become one of the most recognized faces in the world, even hundreds of years later! The small plaque below her sculpted portrait tells the story of “Monalisa Gherardini” with great pride. Eventually her father moved the family to rented rooms off Via Ghibellina, nearer to her grandparents, strangely, just steps away from Ser Piero da Vinci, father of Leonardo, the renowned artist who would one day make her face so famous. Our third stop was at a local restaurant called “Toscanella Osteria Firenze”, specializing in the famous Bistecca Alla Fiorentina. The open kitchen concept means patrons can watch the huge slabs of Porterhouse Steak being simply prepared with herbs, salt and pepper, and thrown onto a live flame, sizzling before their very eyes. Mere moments later it is briefly flipped and served very red and juicy, in the Tuscan way. Portions are huge, so splitting one is often recommended. Sitting together with our new friends at a long, wooden table, we enjoyed the conviviality of the atmosphere as we passed bowls of fresh vegetables, potatoes and, of course, wine, back and forth, feeling like we were actually part of a community as the restaurant quickly filled to the brim with large groups of families and friends. It was a great experience. “This magical, marvellous food on our plate, this sustenance we absorb, has a story to tell. It has a journey” Samuel Chamberlain- American Farmer, Lecturer and Author, Known as “America’s Most Famous Farmer”
To finish our Walks of Italy Food Tour off with true Italian flair, Ismael then took us to a Gelateria where we could order scoops of our favourite flavours. We lingered outside the Gelateria, revelling in the soft, rose glow of the setting sun, and between licks, mmmmmm’s and smacking our lips contentedly, we finished off
conversations and exchanged email addresses with people who were absolute strangers just a few hours ago. What a wonderful way to end our trip to Tuscany, with a truly fabulous experience combining food, fun and new friends. When you go to Italy, be sure to check out Walks of Italy’s wide choice of tour offerings. Walks of Italy offers over 70 services in cities across the world and recently expanded to include New York and Istanbul, Turkey. After six wonderfully unique experiences in Rome, Florence and New York, New Jetsetters highly recommend Walks of Italy’s small group adventures.
Paradise In Mayakoba Mexico’s Mayan Riviera, or “Riviera Maya” stretches in extraordinary splendour from the once-sleepy seaside town of Puerto Morelos all the way down the northwest coastline of the Yucatan Peninsula, ending somewhere near Tulum, where translucent aqua waves roll in to deposit tiny seashells and renew the beaches with stunning white sand and seaweed. By Deborah M. Thompson
The Banyan Tree Mayakoba
A stunning Spa Pool Villa At The Banyan Tree Mayakoba
This blindingly beautiful part of the Yucatan is, for better or worse, now known worldwide for having some of the most luxurious properties and all-inclusive hotels on this planet, and has become a hot-spot for today’s dedicated luxury travel addicts.
The Stunning Banyan Tree Lobby
Many of these admitted luxury experience aficionados, however, are now beginning to realize the importance of protecting our environment and showing respect for the health and well being of the fragile non-human species that live on this planet with us. New Jetsetters share in this ethos; as such we were thrilled to discover a very special place that makes us believe that there is hope for a successful marriage between environment and tourism. It is called “Mayakoba”. Tucked in amongst the mangroves and rain forest canopy of Mexico’s Riviera Maya, Mayakoba (meaning “Village Over Water”) is an intimate, master-planned, luxury resort development. With 148 acres of protected mangroves, freshwater lagoons, pristine rainforest and a treasure trove of endemic wildlife and marine species, it would be easy to imagine it as the original Garden of Eden.
A Terrace Residence
Just inside the perimeter of this Eden you will find a paradise of another kind – the absolutely exquisite “Banyan Tree Mayakoba“. 120 superb, private villas nestle amongst the lush jungle terrain, each with their own generously sized private pool (most heated), Jacuzzi, and separate “entertainment room” with flat-screen TVs, dining area and mini-bar. Thoughtfully designed wall to wall sliding doors provide a seamless merging of indoor/outdoor space. The design of each villa immerses guests in a cocoon of intimacy, with the only sounds coming from the trees and bushes as quarrelling parrots visit by day and big-eyed cicadas and adorably tiny tree-frogs sing their hearts out as the sun sets each night. WHAT’S SO GREAT ABOUT IT
Luxury Pool Villa Bedroom
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Like many of the best luxury properties we’ve visited throughout the world, much of the appeal of the Banyan Tree lies in its ability to make you feel like you are one of only a chosen few guests on the property. The drive to your private villa (there are 120 on site, but you will think yours is the only one for miles around) in your almostsilent golf cart takes you past profusely flowering bougainvillea, hibiscus and frangipani. A warm
The Banyan Tree In The Mayakoba Development
breeze blows as you enter through your private villa gate and a sense of peace and calm descends upon you. There is nothing to hear but the chirps and calls of thousands of birds echoing through the six-mile canopy of trees that dip their leaves in the aqua-blue canals that snake through Mayakoba. This vast emerald umbrella shelters hundreds of species of tropical birds, butterflies, frogs and lizards, and beneath the sparkling surface of the canals a rich diversity of marine life thrives, feeding the appetites of Cormorants, Egrets and Pelicans. AN AMAZING ARRIVAL Being greeted at the ridiculously busy airport in Cancun by a driver holding a sign with your name upon it is a great way to begin a trip. There is no time wasted wandering around the airport, unsure of where to find the taxi or bus stand. All you have to do is get through immigration and security, and wait for your driver to find you (or find them first!) and then join in a friendly chat as you are guided to your executive car. You will pass others who are running to make sure they get a seat on a bus, trying to dodge aggressive porters (shudder) or waiting for shared drives outside in the hot, humid sun. We have to say this is quite an addictive part of luxury travel. The drive from the Cancun Airport to the Banyan Tree Mayakoba is only about 40 minutes.
After your driver checks you through the requisite Mexican security gate you will be very close to paradise, as a narrow, winding road threads its way through lush jungle vegetation, ending in front of the elegant, airy Banyan Tree lobby. There is nothing nicer than having someone waiting to greet you as your driver opens your door and hands you over to your smiling host. “Pili� was the name of our sweet Banyan Tree guest services host; she escorted us immediately to the check-in desk and offered us cool towels and a complimentary Banyan Tree cocktail to sip on as the formalities were conducted. Soon we were seated in a golf-cart, with Pili accompanying us to our Pool Spa Villa for orientation. UNIQUE ROOM Opening the gate to your own private Spa Pool Villa at Banyan Tree is really quite breathtaking. The architectural layout feels spacious yet cozy at the same time, with the large, private pool being the decadent centrepiece of each villa. Wrapping around the bedroom in an L-shape, with a Jacuzzi tub nestled up at the side of the pool, it is perfect for a relaxing soak before bed. The Spa Villas have a staircase to the left of your entry gate, leading up to a large terrace with two massage tables, an outdoor shower and some
comfortable built-in loungers, tables and an outdoor mini-bar to make it a very appealing place to spend time. Below the spa terrace your bedroom is a sweet, serene space – what makes it even more amazing is slipping out of your massive, super-comfy king-size bed, opening your sliding glass door and sinking into your own floating paradise (au-natural if you like). The en-suite bathrooms are some of the largest we’ve seen in our travels. Most villas provide a small private garden area off the bathroom, boasting a deep soaker tub and a wall of candles that can be lit at night to create an outrageously romantic ambiance. Large rain showers are also part of the dream-bathroom experience; some villas offer these inside only; others have the outdoor shower option as well. Back in your bedroom, you can also gaze out at your landscaped garden terrace over to your separate living room, designed to bring the outdoors in (or the indoors out, whichever way you’d like to view it). Open the wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling doors, mix your favourite drink at your bar and relax on your comfortable sofa to take in a movie or the latest news on your flat-screen TV (but what a waste that would be – you’re in paradise after all!). To be quite honest, we never even turned the TV on while we were in Mayakoba.
NOTEWORTHY DINING AND BAR La Copa One of our favorite places to chill out and simply inhale the beauty of the Mayan tropics, “La Copa” is the Banyan Tree’s indoor/outdoor lounge. Simply making your way to the bar, down the gorgeous open-air walkways filled with Mayan artwork is enough to lower that blood pressure as you breathe a little deeper, open your eyes a little wider, and feel those muscles start to loosen up. On one side, a selection of Mayan art hangs on dark honeyed walls, on the other the sun glimmers off the meandering canals, enriching the hallways with dancing, golden light. The indoor/outdoor area of La Copa is cool and cozy, with a long bar and stools, and groupings of comfortable wicker lounge chairs and low tables. The arrangement takes advantage of beautiful property views and funnels any breeze sweeping throughThethe Mayakoba right through Banyan Tree In The Mayakoba Development the lounge area. The expansive outdoor area of La Copa offers intimate love-seat like arrangements surrounded by white canvas sail-like shades and more wood, wicker and immense candles that give it a sexy Vegas-style appeal. By day you can take advantage of the Continued on page 118
The Beach Pool At The Banyan Tree Mayakoba
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For The Lucky Few Paradise Has Been Perfected At Grand Case Saint Martin
In Conversation With Chef Conroy Arnold
Recently I was very lucky to be able to sit down for a chat with Chef Conroy Arnold, Executive Chef at the charming Christopher’s Restaurant at Hermosa Cove Villa Hotel, Ocho Rios, Jamaica. Far from the frenzied and frantic atmosphere of Jamaica’s all-inclusive properties further down the coast, with their buffet tables groaning under the weight of mundane salads and boring burgers, Christopher’s is a real gem for those of us who treasure quality over quantity and want to experience the real food of Jamaica in a stunning, oceanside location. Please enjoy this new instalment in New Jetsetters Notable Chef Interviews series. Christopher’s is the best kept secret in all of Jamaica; sweet and sexy at the same time, tables overlook the tiny crescent beaches of Hermosa Cove with their picturesque book-end pavilions. The awesome talent of Chef Conroy Arnold is the icing on the cake as you dive into his creative menu overlooking a gently lapping turquoise sea. Fondly known to everyone as “The Stuttering Chef” he credits his mother with having the patience and love to work with him on his childhood speech impediment, encouraging him to work through it by singing and listening carefully to others as they spoke, trying to emulate them. Importantly, though, she wanted Conroy to be able to have a profession that would not rely on him having to do a lot of speaking. Soon he was spending time in the kitchen with her, learning important cooking techniques and how to season meat and fish with spices and herbs as they talked about life. What a special and amazing mother.
Chef Conroy With New Jetsetters
NEW JETSETTERS GLOSS MAGAZINE
Chef Arnold’s adventures in life started early when he left Jamaica with his parents as a young boy of 11, arriving in the Bronx in New York City in the dead of winter. Despite not only the shock to his system with the harsh winter temperatures and the difference in culture, Chef Arnold was able to see his new home as a great opportunity. When he returned to his childhood stomping grounds years later, he brought with him a Degree in Political Science and the title of Chef from the Culinary Institute of America. Importantly, he also had three impressive years of working at world-famous NOBU restaurant in Manhattan tucked under his belt, an incredible experience he credits as giving him his “food philosophy” and which helped to turn him into the charismatic, notable Chef that he is today. I must say that rarely have I felt such a zen-like, relaxing vibe emanating from a Chef! Perhaps his serene and amenable demeanour comes from his undoubtedly free-spirited childhood, growing up in the small Jamaican town of “Wait a Bit”, where rivers wind through lush, green hillsides and the rich soil produces a staggering bounty of fruits and vegetables. As a child he would run to collect firewood for his grandmother who cooked over a fire in the back yard of the family home. No doubt the freshness of the ingredients chopped, sautéed and stirred by his cherished grandmother made an impact on Chef Arnold because the words “fresh” “clean flavors” and “natural ingredients” were a recurring theme during our pleasant interview and shone. It is not hard to see that Chef Arnold truly loves his native land, and he has some very interesting plans in the works to help shine a spotlight on the culinary richness of Jamaica. This spotlight will focus not only the astounding, natural produce one finds at every breathtaking curve, but will also encompass the important cooking methods, recipes and wisdom handed down from generations of African descendants that have made Jamaica their home for hundreds of years. With his intent gaze and shy smile, Chef Conroy revealed himself to me as a man with a hunger for knowledge and a thirst to discover the culinary roots of his beloved Jamaica.
NJS: It’s such a pleasure to sit down and chat with you, Chef. A while back I read an article about you where you talked about how you got your interest in cooking through your grandmother and mother. Let’s begin with where you grew up and got your inspiration for cooking.
Christopher’s Restaurant At Stunning Hermosa Cove Villa Hotel
Chef Arnold: I grew up in Trelawny, Jamaica, in a little town called Wait-a-Bit, up in the hills. NJS: I love that name! Chef Arnold: Yes – It’s really a nice place. Then in 1983 we moved to the Bronx in New York. NJS: Oh my goodness. How did you find that? Chef Arnold: It was good – but a little bit of shock-treatment! was in the winter time on top of it all.
It
NJS: I can’t imagine! It’s one thing to grow up with those temperatures, but when you move from a place like this! St. Jean Chef Arnold: Well, Beach I actually really enjoyed it. We went back and forth every year, coming back home just to keep in touch.
An Ocho Rios Hidden Gem
On the other side of Eden Rock, a beautiful small cove is home toNJS: the posh Club. There is no lack of with your grandmother? So, Nikki whatBeach are your earliest memories water sports at St. Jean she Beach, and there arereally a Wasactivities there something prepared that inspired you? few excellent restaurants where noshing and having a Chef Arnold: She would do a lot of baking. Also, she would chilled glass of Rose wine isusually “de rigeur”.
make this amazing pudding. She would be sitting on a stool in the backyard, stirring away at a pot. She’d let me put my finger in it to have a taste. So that was my first impression. NJS: So at that young age you got to experience the texture, the taste of food made from scratch from fresh ingredients. You have that pleasurable memory stowed away in your brain. Chef Arnold: Yes, that was interesting to me. NJS: I think being a Chef is a “calling”, as are a handful of other professions. Do you? Chef Arnold: Yes, it’s not one of those jobs that you just “sign up for” (laughter).
Ocean Front Dining At Christopher’s
NJS: I think it’s something you probably find a passion for, usually as a child. Do you make any dishes currently that are nostalgic – something that you grew up with? Chef Arnold: No, I’ve really moved on and tried to embrace my own philosophy – what I have learned along the way, and what I like to do. I like braising meats, for instance, but I didn’t know or understand that kind of technique back then. Now I do and I embrace it. Right now I think, for me, the idea of being a Chef is the importance of being a real “hands-on” cook. I want to make my dishes with passion, I want to have fresh ingredients and just “make it happen”. That’s how I see myself. I just like to cook and my goal is to become a “Curator” of my culinary culture. NJS: Interesting. It seems like many of the Chefs we read about these days have actually divorced themselves from the actual art of cooking. Is that something you see as well? Chef Arnold: Well, more and more we have the older generations of Chefs that are burning out. As a professional Chef you really have to pace yourself. In the big cities the pace will burn you out. That’s why I sort of “ran away” from the cities. Even small places will burn you out because you have to maintain a certain mental standard in what you do. I remember I’d go home exhausted, drink some whisky and go to bed! That’s why I am approaching this job as I do. The owners here are amazing, and they are a big part of my makeup. I’ve been here five years; usually I’m gone in about a year. But this place works for me. NJS: We are certainly enjoying the food here, we are in love with your smoked ribs and your delicious Chicken Spring Rolls. What’s your favourite “go-to” dish. Your favourite thing to prepare? Continued on page 121
Chef Conroy At Work
Drinking In Chianti It was a classically gorgeous Bahamas day; cloudless A Visit To skies and a blazing sun reflecting off the white, sandy ocean floor, giving the water that incredibly translucent, looking-glass quality that one can only find in the Bahamas.
Castello Di Spaltenna A butterfly seems to hang suspended on the gentle breeze, a flash of yellow bright against the silver leaves of olive trees. Beyond the small olive grove beneath my terrace, a majestic view of the Chianti Hills unfolds and presents a canvas of greens in every shade imaginable. Lime-green folds of vineyards march in precise rows alongside compact, silver-green clouds of olive orchards. Tall, elegant Italian Cypress trees, the super models of the tree world, dot the hillsides like exclamation marks, as if exalting the beauty of their surroundings. As I take in the vista before me I can literally feel the tension draining from my body. My breathing deepens; I can feel my pulse slowing. This is better than any hot Yoga class I’ve ever taken.
By Deborah Thompson By Deborah M. Thompson
INTRODUCTION I have a favourite quote from Francis Maye’s iconic book “Under the Tuscan Sun”. If you haven’t read it and you enjoy reading about beautiful places and people who have the courage to leave behind everything and everyone they know and love to experience an alternate life, I encourage you to do so. I remember tucking the simple yet powerful images this author conjured up into tidy, sealed vials in the back of my mind, filled with words instead of drops of a favourite perfume, waiting to be unsealed and enjoyed at a moment’s notice. It was only as I stood on the stone terrace of Castello di Spaltenna and looked out over the grand vista before me that I could really grasp those images and make them my own. She said: “Sometimes the valley below is like a bowl filled up with fog. I can see hard green figs on two trees and pears on a tree just below me. A fine crop coming in. May summer last a hundred years.” All I can hear is the sound of the birds; magpies calling to each other, tiny wrens chirping, and the occasional clatter of plates from La Terrazzo Restaurant as guests indulge in an al fresco breakfast in paradise. Beyond the cultivated emerald lawns and sloping vineyards of the Castello di Spaltenna, the stony walls of medieval castles and walled hamlets dot the hilltops, defining the very essence of Tuscany. Whether you are a oenophile or simply want to experience the elegance of the Italian countryside, Castello di Spaltenna has something for everyone, except water parks or theme rides. This is the heart of the Chianti-Classico wine-growing area, and the
Canyon Suite Interior
drive from Florence to the Castello is simply enchanting (after you exit the toll highway, that is). The road meanders through forests and glades, along the edges of plummeting, verdant valleys, past silvery olive groves and through wine-estates with family names that most Italian-wine lovers will instantly recognize from the labels of wine-bottles back home. Castillon del Bosco, Biondi-Santi, Capanelle, Badia in Coltibuono, Castelli Banfi, each gloriously accessible by turning up a dusty, winding road, surrounded by hectares of tender, twisting, bright-green grapevines. And so it is the case when you turn off the main highway that meanders through the sleepy hamlet of Gaiole (pronounced “Guy-o-lay”) and onto the small road leading up, past the entrance to the sleepy, walled village of Vertine, before arriving at the gravel driveway that welcomes you to Castello di Spaltenna.
THE PROPERTY, RESTAURANTS AND SURROUNDINGS The sight that greets visitors to Spaltenna is one that will not be forgotten. It could not possibly be more serene; sculptures of women in quiet contemplation by acclaimed London-turned-Italian artist Mathew Spender adorn manicured lawns, roses nod on the soft wind blowing through the Chianti countryside. Even the parish doves seem to whisper as they coo, looking down from their perches in the ancient bell-tower which dates back to 1,000 AD; a peek inside the beautifully maintained adjoining Roman“Pieve” (a medieval church) only adds to the feeling that you have stepped back centuries in time.
View of Basilica di Santa Maria Della Salute
One of Castello Di Spalteena’s Pools
Castello Di Spalteena Grounds
Beautiful Spalteena Lounge
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As is the case with most of the abandoned monasteries, hilltop castles and stone-walled hamlets in Italy, there is serious history here, and you can feel it in your bones. In its first incarnation it was a castle; original brickwork, wrought iron details and an ancient well still survive. In 1049 AD “Peter Peter” donated his castle and court to the monastery of Coltibuono, historically linking what is now Castello di Spaltenna to the exquisite, tiny community of Vertine, one of the rare walled villages that has remained untouched by destruction over so many violent centuries. But more on this later. We were here to experience a Terrace Suite, The Gritti Palace Epicurean School and after a bellman greeted us at our car and relieved us of our luggage, we made our way down the flower-rimmed pathway to find Reception. As Steve handled the details I drifted off to explore the surroundings. Wandering the property is like being immersed in a historical novel; stone arches lead to steep staircases and rough, stone-hewn passages with tiny doorways (people really were small in medieval times!). Everywhere you look there are nooks and crannies, and yet more steps that ascend up, up, up to who knows where. Look out any Club del Doge Restaurant anywhere on the property, and you are window, gifted with a breathtaking view of green hills, nodding flowers, swaying cypress trees and the flash of Magpie wings as they soar on the wind. Adjacent to the Reception Lobby I could see the large courtyard that turns into the beautiful Restaurant “Pievano” with Michelin Star Chef Vincenzo Guarino at the helm. During the day the courtyard looks deceptively plain, but at night, lit up with candles and the tables dressed with white linens, glittering silverware and fine china, it becomes a gastronomes fairyland. As the moon slowly rises, sophisticated dishes such as Chefs “Homemade Tortellini stuffed The Gritti Palace Lobby with Buffalo Ricotta Cheese and Baby Spinach” New Jetsetters GLOSS
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are offered, or “Raw Beef Tartar with Creamy Pecorino Cheese from Pienza" (the village is just down the road!) with Vinsanto Jus and a “Savini Selection” Black Truffle. I spied a stone stairway off the courtyard and of course, had to see what was down there. Through a set of doors I found “La Terraza” and “L’Osteria” Restaurant located in a uniquely beautiful part of the grounds. The Wine Cellar is tucked into the far end of the room, with Spaltenna’s 500 bottle selection of fine wines guarded by a wrought iron gate, the bottles glinting in the darkness, teasing and daring you to have a taste. L’Osteria, open from 7:30 PM to 10:00 PM is at once cozy yet spacious and cool; the warm brick walls and vaulted ceiling are rustic and charming, with dozens of wines displayed on shelves running the length of the room. The tile floor, recessed lighting and yes, even a knight in shining armour lends to the appeal. Today, though, the broad, sweeping terrace off L’Osteria was alive with guests having lunch, most speaking in hushed tones as they gazed out over Spaltenna’s Sangiovese vineyards and the green, rolling hills of Chianti.
Terrace Suite Living Room
The Peggy Guggenheim Suite Living Room
Terrace View
River Wing Lobby
La Terrazza, open only from 12:30 to 2:30 serves up an excellent selection of Tuscan and international favourites, from Marinated BySalmon Deborah Thompson Salad with Pineapple and Guacamole to Ravioli Stuffed “Pappa al Pomodoro” with Cheese and Pepper sauce to the famous “Bistecca alla Fiorentina”. Yum. La Terrazza, just off L’Osteria and yes, located on a grand terrace, is where a hearty breakfast is offered. American Coffee, Cappuccinos, Espresso, all manner of coffee and tea are available to help you wake up before you make your selection from groaning buffet tables.
The Peggy Guggenheim Suite Bedroom
A Spa with a View
Fresh fruits, Greek yogurt, a fabulous assortment of local cheeses, as well as cold cuts, fresh loaves of Italian bread and plenty of croissants and sweet cakes tempt the tummy. From La Terrazza, you can walk down the sloping, manicured lawn to the large swimming pool for a dip, or just sit on one of the loungers and soak in the spectacular, serene view. For cooler or rainy days, an indoor swimming pool is located just a few metres away, as is the hotel Spa which I did not have time to explore. I decided I’d better continue my exploring later and made my way back to the lobby. As we were escorted to our Terrace Suite we walked down a long, airy corridor flanked by a beautiful atrium, a relatively new addition to the resort. Filled with comfortable sofas, flowers, and coffee-table books, it looked like a very inviting refuge from either the heat (or the rain should there be any)!
OUR TERRACE SUITE We are big fans of having an outdoor terrace, patio or balcony when we travel, so we were thrilled with our Terrace Suite. The small living room was furnished with a sofa and a mini-bar (which was replenished daily, alcohol included, in our package). A small fireplace, added a touch of charm, as did the oriental throw rug. The sofa and drapes were a deep red, adding a welcome splash of colour. The best part was the sweet patio off the living room. Big enough for two comfy chairs and a small table, the view of the olive orchard and then out over the Chianti hills was sublime. Evenings saw us sitting out with a bottle of fabulous wine, toasting to a beautiful day, and staring out over the valley, mesmerized by the magic of our surroundings.
View of Basilica di Santa Maria Della Salute
Our bedroom, though once again small, was of ample size with a comfortable King bed and soft linens to help you fall asleep, although after a full day of exploring, breathing deeply of the fresh Tuscan air and enjoying wonderful food and wine, sleep will come swiftly and sweetly nonetheless. High, beamed ceilings added an airy touch. Once again, large windows that swung open wide to let in the breeze and fully enjoy the spectacular view were the highlight of this bedroom. A large armoire/closet was just off the bathroom with a decent amount of hangers, and of course a safety deposit box. The Gritti Palace Epicurean School Every morning I would wake up to the sound of the doves cooing, wrens peeping in the olive grove, and a vista of green valleys and blue skies alive with the dipping and darting of swallows and magpies. Church bells rang out, the harshness swallowed by the folds of the wide, green valleys and hills. At that first moment of wakefulness I could believe that this was still a castle, that perhaps if I got out of bed and looked out the window I would see horses thundering by on the hillside road connecting the castles and settlements. Club del Doge Restaurant Then, as I would stumble in that half-dream state to the bathroom, my imagination would take a quantum leap forward as the spectacular marble bathroom brought me back to the rather wonderful reality of modern life. A gleaming state-of-the-art rain shower with enough knobs and dials to stump Einstein had a sound system and a choice of coloured LED lights. Rock out American Idol style bathed in your favourite colour as you adjust dials to get just the right spray. The bathroom also features a bidet, beautiful double-sink marble vanity and my favourite bathroom amenity, a magnifying mirror. Some of the other suites also have whirlpool tubs. The Gritti Palace Lobby Continued Continued on on page page 121 99
Capturing The ILTM Phenomenon at ILTM Americas In June of 2015 I was fortunate enough to be invited to one of the most exclusive and important luxury travel events in the world, the International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM) Asia in Shanghai. It was a week I will never forget for many and varied reasons. One reason, of course, was the fact that I was in one of the most fascinating cities in the world, but that aside, being part of an ILTM luxury travel event as invited media was a highlight of my travels. Fast forward to fall of 2016 and lo and behold, I found myself somewhat magically taking part in another edition of the ILTM portfolio, ILTM Americas, and this time as invited VIP media. Better yet, I was quite intimately acquainted with the host location this time. This was the fifth year ILTM was partnering with the Fairmont Hotel in the exquisite Mayakoba development in the Yucatan Peninsula. An insulated microcosm of the Riviera Maya, Mayakoba is an ecologically protected “Garden of Eden” comprising 148 acres of protected mangroves, miles of freshwater lagoons and canals, and a pristine rain forest that surrounds four exclusive luxury properties. As the host hotel, the gorgeous Fairmont Mayakoba was once again the epicentre for hundreds of discerning ILTM guests.
The Fairmont Peace Hotel On The Bund
“ILTM is a “by invitation only” event that brings together hundreds of global travel buyers to meet and do business with an unrivalled collection of international, luxury travel providers, be they properties or luxury experience experts.
The Jasmine Lounge
The Fairmont Mayakoba - Home to ILTM Americas
The next four days would be filled with solid sales possibilities, networking and relationship building on a grand scale. Endorsing a strict “by invitation only” doctrine, ILTM connects the very best movers and shakers in the luxury field, giving Exhibitors access to vetted Buyers from across the globe who are keen on finding the shiniest pearls in the ocean of luxury travel to offer their discriminating clients. ILTM Americas 2016 boasted a record 300 Exhibitors from 49 countries lined up to show off their very best properties, and a matching 300 buyers from North America, with ILTM facilitating up to 60 one-on-one, personal meetings between each buyer and exhibitor. For attendees, that is a lot of face-to-face meetings with influential people in the luxury travel universe that one may otherwise never have the privilege to meet. The Banyan Tree was happy to make room for overflow guests at their exquisite all-pool villas, where we were guests, and the brand new Andaz Mayakoba made a flashy and coquettish appearance to wow the media, despite not yet being open to the public (more on the Andaz teaser in a separate article).
As media, watching the networking taking place and the strong connections being forged on this grand stage was rather mind blowing.
I had pretty high expectations after attending the ILTM Asia – and I’m happy to say I was not disappointed. Continued on Page 122
The “Suite” Life Vancouver’s Loden Hotel
Occasionally
New Jetsetters like to head to downtown Vancouver for some glitzy nightlife, mouth-watering gastronomy and world-class shopping on Robson and Granville Streets. The glamour of a big city is something we enjoy on occasion, and Vancouver has plenty of this, not to mention the sheer beauty of our ocean-side city, with boats bobbing on sapphire blue waters against a backdrop of snow-topped mountains. That being said, we also value peace, quiet and a tranquil vibe during our stays, and that’s not always easy to find at a downtown hotel. We’re happy to say that we found the perfect place for those who want a little bit of everything! Come check out The Loden Hotel on Melville Street with us! Location: The Loden Hotel is in an absolutely wonderful location in downtown Vancouver on the edge of a very plush neighbourhood called Coal Harbour. Having lived in Coal Harbour for many years (not far from The Loden), we can tell you that everything Vancouver has to offer is easily accessible from their Melville Street location.
It has the beauty of being on one of the “quiet streets” in the big city, with the majority of traffic using the major thoroughfares that slice directly through the downtown core. Melville Street gets mainly light, local traffic; once you are up in your suite, it is actually possible to feel like you’re tucked away in a park somewhere, especially when you see the views from the huge windows. Looking for some action? Love shopping for fashion? Just a few easy-walking blocks up the street and you are at the intersection of Burrard and West Georgia – where some of the world’s top luxury brands have opened their doors, and just another few blocks from that, you have world-famous Granville Street, with all the shopping, dining and entertainment you could want at your fingertips. If it’s a rainy day, you can amuse yourself at the Pacific Centre Mall that stretches above and underground for blocks, with all the big department stores and fashion designers you could wish for. Once your wallet is empty, there are lots of other ways to spend some quality time. Needing some tranquility and inspiration? Put on your walking shoes or grab one of the Loden’s
free bikes and head in the other direction. In a block or two you will reach the beginning of the stunning “Stanley Park Seawall”, a waterfront promenade that stretches from Canada Place (very close by) all the way into and around Stanley Park and onward to English Bay and the foot of the Granville Street and Burrard St. Bridges, then zigzags into the funky warehouse district of Yaletown. Walking or biking the seawall you’ll pass by multi-million dollar condo towers that touch the sky, world-class waterfront restaurants, and then along the emerald fringes of Stanley Park you’ll cross paths with inquisitive squirrels and chipmunks, honking Canada Geese, elegant Great-Blue Herons, saucy racoons, shy turtles and even curious skunks peeking out from the flowering shrubs and gardens. Linger on a park-bench along one of the many oceanfront parks, where locals cavort with their dogs, fly kites and have picnics. It’s a beautiful way to spend the day. Love seaplanes? In Coal Harbour you can watch the seaplanes take off and land throughout the day, shuttling passengers to and from Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands. Depending on your pace, you will need an entire morning or afternoon to explore just the portion of the seawall from The Loden and around the
perimeter of Stanley Park. Optimally, leave an entire day free for exploring all the nooks and crannies, giving you time for some great snacks to keep your energy going. Reception and Service: Upon our arrival at The Loden, greetings from the Valet were prompt and friendly. We were whisked into the lobby and introduced to all the staff that we came into contact with, a nice way of adding that personal touch to the experience. As we had only very light hand-luggage, we had no opportunity to evaluate luggage handling, but I’m fairly sure it would have been exemplary. We were quickly and professionally checked in, with warm smiles, which I always really appreciate. During all our interactions with staff we were addressed by name and every time we visited the lobby, staff asked if they could help us with anything to make our visit even better. I loved that! We were advised about how to access the free in-room WIFI – available everywhere on the property.
The Loden is one of Vancouver’s top pet-friendly hotels Continued on page 123
Discovering Your Six Senses In The Pristine Kingdom Of Bhutan By Steve Thompson
Perched high in the Himalayas, Bhutan is a unique country both culturally and environmentally. It also just happens to be the world’s last remaining Buddhist Kingdom. Its mysterious, age-old culture remained untainted by the outside worldByuntil the 1950's Deborah Thompson when the first real international visitors arrived on the scene.
Swan Lake
The Indoor Bar and Lounge
Today, Bhutan’s pristine environment, with its high rugged mountains and deep valleys, is fast becoming known as one of the premiere destination getaways for adventurous travellers. With a tremendously rich, protected ecosystem, Bhutan offers access to ten amazing National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries. Protecting the ecosystem is just one of the reasons why we are so excited that Six Senses Hotels, Resorts & Spas is opening a property in Bhutan. It has designed a project that is actually five individual satellite resorts in five separate locations, but all under the umbrella of one all-encompassing name: Six Senses Bhutan. Today, travel has become all about “experiences” and Six Senses will offer guests five unique “experiences” crafted into one enchanted journey through the Kingdom. With a total of just 82 guest suites and villas distributed between five intimate lodges, guests will experience the heritage and hospitality of Thimphu, Punakha, Bumthang, Gangtey and Paro in the colourful Kingdom known as “The Happiest Place on Earth” (move over, Disneyland).
Each location will be identified by a specific and appropriate theme, so that as guests move between them they experience a journey through all their senses. Guests will begin in the capital of Thimphu, where the lodgings were designed to reflect Bhutan’s unique culture. Interiors are modern, with clean lines, an abundance of rich wood paneling, whitewashing and natural stone. Beautiful cultural items, handcrafted objects and intricate weavings invite guests to experience the beauty of a traditional Bhutan home. Old, wood is re-purposed into tables and benches, while handcrafted, rust-coloured brick is used for structures. Second stop is Punakha, a rural region of lush, fertile land where terraces have been created and the architecture designed to evoke the feel of a traditional farmhouse. Interiors feature “mud bricks” in the bathrooms and mason jars cleverly employed as light fittings as the community would once have used. Woven bamboo walls and bamboo and rattan decor add texture and visual interest.
The next stop is Bumthang, where Six Senses have imaginatively created a “forest within a forest”. Accommodations are set within a woodland, with expansive windows that welcome the outdoors to be a part of the stunning interior experience. Recycled old wood is used for furnishings such as lamp bases and occasional tables, while uncluttered interiors create a visual feast with patterned timber walls and warm, recycled wooden floors. The fourth gem on Six Senses Bhutan’s journey is Gangtey. While maintaining the uncluttered lines and natural feel, beautifully weathered timber floors and accented walls have been introduced. Comfortable armchairs and footstools invite guests to relax, occasional tabletops and unique “bottle lights” have been incorporated to add character. A feature of the Gangtey Chalet is a unique bird-watching bridge, surely something every ornithologist will love.
Continued on page 125
Underneath The Cottonwood Tree At Hermosa Cove Villa Hotel Hermosa Cove pulls together all the best features of staying in a private villa - think lots of space, a warm, homey feel, your own fully equipped kitchen - with all the advantages of staying in a hotel - a great restaurant on site, maid and room service, an immense property to explore with gorgeous pools and two wonderful bars. It really is the best of both worlds. By Deborah M. Thompson
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The “Suite” Life Vancouver’s Loden Hotel
One Of Three Terraced Pools At Hermosa Cove
There
are thousands of luxury hotels on this planet, many of them located in some of the most spectacular areas on earth. Usually they are dubbed “Five-Star” properties, some of them belong to special groups like “The Luxury Collection” or “Small Luxury Hotels”. We’ve been fortunate to explore many of them. Most of them live up to your expectations; when you leave you feel privileged that you’ve been there, but you also feel satisfied with that one experience. You are ready to go on to the next. There are only a handful of hotels and resorts, out of the hundreds we’ve visited, that make us long to return the very moment we exit the property. Places that are so special that, even as we reach the airport for that flight home, we’re trying to figure out how soon we could return, how long we’d like to stay (forever!!) and when we can arrange it. Hermosa Cove Villa Hotel is one of those special places. There are many ingredients that go into a recipe for success – whether for an award-winning meal or, in this case, the perfect tropical getaway. If you have read any of our other property reviews
you’ll know that we believe “excellence is found Barbados in the details” - small things thatBottom setBay,certain hotels apart from others. Secondly, as we mentioned in the first paragraph, we find that Hermosa Cove has perfectly captured the very most important “detail”. The amazing staff. You can have a gorgeous property with the finest linens, sparkling chandeliers in every room, and a view to die for – but if staff members are rude or even just indifferent, this is what guests are going to remember after they leave. This is what they will tell friends and family about – or share on Social Media for the world to see. And believe me, those guests won’t be sorry to leave – they’ll be glad to get away from the negativity that poisons even the most amazing place. When staff members are warm and helpful, professional and positive, guests feed off the vibes, making the experience intensely enjoyable and memorable. This fabulous vibe is what every visitor will find at Hermosa Cove Villa Hotel. Charming, hands-on owners, Deb and Clayton Korver are a big part of the positive energy pf
Hermosa Cove. To begin with, they long ago recognized the need to have amazing staff, and they have truly outdone themselves in hiring the right people (as I will remark on later in the review). Their love for Jamaica and the Jamaican people and culture shines brightly, and their passion for creating a unique and beautiful property to share with guests seems limitless. Having an accomplished wood-carving artist as an owner has certainly helped Hermosa Cove to establish its very own unique identity, so different from other accommodations on the island. Clayton and Deb have done an amazing job – respectfully and quite tenderly carving out 12 acres of verdant, waterfront jungle without destroying the beauty that defines this lush Ocho Rios landscape. Villas and even a “tree house” are designed to blend with the towering trees and delicate flowers alike, combining the comfort of a luxury hotel experience with full access to the gorgeous environment surrounding it. Clayton, a humble and endearing artist, is constantly at work on the property, scavenging drift-wood for his incredible wood sculptures and supervising young men who are learning the trades as they help him to build his next project – right now a three-story villa overlooking a sweet, white sand cove.
Calabash House Two Level Villa
Calabash House Living Room
Private Villa Plunge Pool
They are also finishing off an impressive, fullsize tree-house overlooking the tiered pools.. Deb can often be found in the Reception area or strolling the grounds making sure everything is well, but if she is not, her Admin staff will look after you with such a care that you will feel like family after just a few hours. Wendy and Kamika in the front office make you feel welcome every time you walk through the door, and even Elvis, the bellboy, captures your heart from the moment he escorts you to your villa, his quiet laugh telling you that he loves this place and yes, even his job. This could be said for every employee we met during our week at Hermosa Cove. Hermosa Cove Villa Hotel offers all the necessary services for a truly luxurious experience, from the moment they arrange for pickup from either the airport or another hotel, to the check-in and orientation to the property, to arranging special outings with trusted contacts in Jamaica. The private villas are outstanding in the sense that they have everything you need, from fully equipped kitchens and homey interior décor in large living rooms, flat-screen TVs and lovely, spacious outdoor terraces for breakfast beside your own pool or in sweet little dining nooks amongst the flowers. Deb and Clayton have traveled the world, collecting beautiful art and treasures; making for a warm, eclectic and interesting décor experience for villa guests. There are NO “cookie-cutter” villas here. Each is unique. Service and staff are exemplary. If you want anything, or desire something special, all you have to do is ask. Parrots chatter in the treetops in the morning, bananaquits flutter and finches peep amongst the brightly coloured Hibiscus, and hummingbirds buzz by on their way to their next sweet-treat – a drink from one of the numerous hummingbird feeders in the “Hummingbird Garden”. The wind blows through the trees, in particular an enormous and gorgeous Cottonwood, its expansive above-ground root system and immense trunk hosting a multitude of Epiphytes – plants such as orchids which live in harmony with their host-trees. At night the concerts begin as the sun sets on the edge of the sea – an orchestra of big-eyed cicada’s and tiny tree frogs as small as your little finger sing together, in a melody as old as the night sky that brings forth their beautiful chorus Hermosa Cove arranged to have us picked-up from another hotel where we were staying for
our first week in Jamaica. Our driver, Rashaun, arrived early and was waiting for us with his big smile just outside the entrance of our villa in Port Antonio, ready to keep us occupied for the 1 ½ hour drive to Hermosa Cove in Ocho Rios. Rashaun is one of the loveliest and most entertaining people I have ever met. Full of great stories, information and laughter, Rashaun made the time fly by as he pointed out areas of interest and regaled us with tales of his childhood in Jamaica. When I remarked that I hadn’t had coconut from a roadside stand yet, he insisted I had to have one, and pulled over at the next roadside stand, getting out to make sure I chose a good one! (It was delicious) We were truly sorry to say goodbye to him as we pulled into the long, meandering driveway leading to the elegant wrought iron gates of Hermosa Cove. As we pulled up into the circular drive we told him we would be asking for him to drive us back to the airport in Kingston when we left. I believe he is often requested by guests. Before long we were being greeted by the lovely Wendy, Operations Manager and escorted into the sweet Reception Lounge. A cooling cocktail was a delicious way to start relaxing and settling in; Wendy pointed out dozens of novels, magazines and some excellent birding books and even some quality binoculars to take back to our villa. A special binder had been made up by Hermosa Cove, with photo’s and information on the individual species of birds that have been sighted on the property. I was impressed. After information had been exchanged we were introduced to the next wonderful staff member, Elvis, the adorable bellboy. As he walked us through the Villa I was impressed with his kind nature and the trouble he took to make sure he showed us everything he thought we might need to know – turning on the television, showing us the coffee maker, and taking us upstairs to the lovely bedroom to show us how the air conditioning and fans worked before bringing up our heavy suitcases. He also made sure to tell us he was there for us whenever we needed him, for anything at all – and I actually believe he meant it. Soon we were alone, staring down at our beautiful little pool, listening to birds chirping in the trees and casting our gaze out across the velvety green landscape of lush foliage, blossoms, and in the near distance, the turquoise ocean on the horizon. We knew it was going to be an amazing week ahead. Continued on page 125
Christopher’s Restaurant
Villa Bedroom
Living Room
The Ultimate Caribbean View
Dining In Your Table Is Waiting
Each month thousands of visitors flock to Negril, Ocho Rios and Montego Bay for a little sun and fun, but to really find the “irie� you have to put some effort into your travels. The most authentic part of Jamaica is overlooked by the all-inclusive crowd. Put some wild and wonderful into your visit and head for Port Antonio in the parish of Portland.
Just about every avid traveler has heard of “Viking River” Cruise Line; television commercials show the long, sleek riverboats floating serenely down some of Europe’s most picturesque cities and towns, and elegant passengers strolling along flower-filled streets on small, escorted tours… By Deborah Thompson
Located on the wild, windswept side of the island and crammed with natural beauty, this is a part of Jamaica that has been forgotten in time. Never fear, all the traditional Caribbean treasures are available, of course, from powdery white beaches and private coves to hidden waterfalls, but it also has a few attractions you just can’t get elsewhere else on the island. River rafting on the Rio Grande would be one, and tucking into a heaping plate of Jerk Chicken with rice and peas at a “Jerk Pit” in Boston Bay (where this dish was born) would be another.
Luxury accommodations in and around Port Antonio are limited to private villa rentals and a couple of truly unique resorts, but the dining scene is much more diverse. From a Bushbar hidden in the trees at Geejam Hotel to an ocean-front Jazz Bar and Supper Club at the re-imagined 5 star Trident Hotel, there’s a little something for everyone. Whether you find your way here along the meandering coast from Ocho Rios or tackle the hair-raising ride through the Blue Mountains from Kingston, here are a few places to enjoy a little “fine dining” Portland style.
Viking Star christening In Bergan Norway
The Geejam Hotel is perhaps known best for its in-house recording studio and the famous recording artists that have hidden away and recorded their award winning albums there. Literally nestled in the heart of the bush, Geejam’s seven double rooms consist of three deluxe cabins, one suite, and three self-contained villas. Plans are in the works for future villas as well. Geejam is also home to the much acclaimed Bushbar restaurant. The intimate Bushbar offers a fully covered terrace with a comfortable, laid back vibe and views to die for. Featuring savoury Jamaican and Asian-influenced dishes, it offers a great wine and cocktail list. It you’re lucky you just might catch the “Jolly Boys” a local Mento institution, performing. Service at the Bushbar is warm, friendly and very efficient. Personal tip – try the Geejam Screechy lobster and a side of festival. Oh, yum.
If you are interested in learning more about Jamaican cuisine (or just love yummy food pics) check out our favorite Jamaican Chef, Conroy Arnold on his Instagram. @Stutteringchef travels throughout Jamaica, exploring culture and food from his home base at Christopher’s Restaurant at Hermosa Cove Villa Hotel, Ocho Rios where he presents gorgeous, authentic and delicious dishes for lucky guests.
Not far from Geejam, set on a hilltop between the majestic Blue Mountains and the Caribbean Sea, Hotel Mockingbird Hill is Jamaica’s top Eco Boutique Hotel. It is also home to Mille Fleurs Restaurant, a peaceful spot where you can enjoy spectacular vistas of Port Antonio and the Caribbean Sea while enjoying authentic and creative cuisine. The focus is on highlighting local and seasonal high quality produce, with their daily changing menu offering a selection of seafood, meat and vegetarian options. This is ‘Slow Food’ at its best. We were fortunate to be able to sit down for a delicious vegetarian lunch on one of their “Meatless Mondays” with our host, co-owner Shireen Aga. We were honoured to be seated up high on “The Perch”, a special high-dining spot with cool breezes and panoramic ocean and Blue Mountain views. The excellent food tastes even better when you are immersed in such a spectacular natural environment. Personal tip – try the mango watermelon salad, and N.B. If you’re not staying at the hotel, make a reservation in advance.
Canadian billionaire Michael Lee Chin purchased and completely rebuilt the Trident Hotel property a few years ago and it has since become the “go to” spot for the rich and famous in Port Antonio. We enjoyed a wonderful evening at Mike’s Supper Club and returned the next day for a tour of the property, where we met Mr. Lee Chin and his son Paul over lunch It’s difficult to define the Supper Club. I mean, what are the chances of finding an upscale jazz speakeasy with fine dining on the north east coast of Jamaica? Well, pretty good actually. Did I mention their 1917 Ferrari-Red Steinway baby grand piano? The menu is bold and interesting, with Chef creating dishes that are an unlikely fusion of hearty Jamaican and delicate Japanese flavors. The desserts are delightful, the martinis are ice cold and the jazz could not have been better. Mike’s Supper Club is a great way to spend an evening or two when visiting Port Antonio. Personal Tip: “Dress to the Nines” for a dinner here – it’s a swanky, sexy room and you want to look like you belong there!
If you are looking for a truly authentic Port Antonio dining experience, look no further than Wilkes Cuisine (technically Wilkes Cuisine Seafood Restaurant & Bar) on the main road (Folly) just east of Port Antonio. Don’t be fooled by the exterior because, to be honest, it could use a “lick of paint”. Owner Chef Nigel Thompson decided to bring his cooking passion back to the people of Port Antonio after graduating from the (C.I.A) Culinary Institute of America. When he’s not hanging out at Wilkes, Chef Nigel serves as a personal Chef for many local and visiting international celebrities such as Tom Cruise, Amy Winehouse, Scarlet Johansson, Drake, Rihanna, Alicia Keys, Baby Face, John Legend and more. The restaurant offers a small, simply decorated room overlooking east harbour and features traditional Jamaican cooking, including pepper pot soup, curried shrimp, and lobster when available. Prices are reasonable and the isMontenegro efficient. We were happy to spend part of a very rainy Port Antonio night talking with Chef Viking Star service at port in Kotor, Nigel. Personal Tip – Try one of his Jamaican “Run Down” dishes – very delicious! New Jetsetters GLOSS
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Discover Isla Holbox and the Barefoot, Bohemian CasaSandra By Deborah M. Thompson
“18 rooms plus 1 Luxury Villa and every one of your views is a mirror of paradise”
As luxury travel writers, our success is measured by the new discoveries and unique places we find around the globe to share with our New Jetsetters audience. This year we attended the International Luxury Travel Market (“ILTM”) Americas, held in the glorious part of Mexico called “Mayakoba” on the Riviera Maya. This annual four day event showcases some of the most stunning properties and luxury experiences in the world, bringing them to the attention of a distinguished group of VIP media and travel agents. We were excited to find out about “CasaSandra Boutique Hotel” on the small, stunning “Isla Holbox” off the coast of the Riviera Maya. We think it is one of those “special places” and we are here to share the news. The secret is out! Most visitors to the Mayan Riviera are familiar with its two well-known islands: Isla Mujeres or “Isla” – The “Island of Woman” and Cozumel. “Isla” is a little slice of heaven for those wanting to get away from the fast paced action and all-inclusive environs of Cancun; Cozumel, on the other hand, combines a little bit of small-town Mexico with a taste of Cancun nightlife and some of the best scuba diving and snorkelling in the world. But wait! New Jetsetters want you to know that there is an
amazing third option, where relaxation and communing with nature are the focus, where not having plans …. any plans at all, is considered a good thing. Isla Holbox (Holbox Island) is located 60 km north of Cancun, situated within Mexico’s largest ecological reserve, “Yum Balam” which covers more than 380,000 hectares of protected areas. It’s an ideal spot if you’re looking for a little “wildlife” experience; on land the endangered cat species such as the jaguar, ocelot, and margay make this area their home, the turquoise ocean harbours majestic Whale Sharks, Pink Dolphins and giant Manta Rays to thrill scuba divers and snorkelers. There are even orchid and butterfly farms, and shrines dedicated to massive, 1,000 year-old trees. If birding is your passion, more than 546 bird species in 74 different families are native to the region, with at least 120 known types of birds migrating through the island of Holbox each year.
Isla Holbox is where you’ll find our latest discovery, the wonderfully unique 18-room CasaSandra Hotel. Designed by Cuban-born owner and artist Sandra Pérez, CasaSandra feels more like a private villa than a hotel. Comprised of five individual buildings, each residence is filled with one-of-a-kind pieces of local art. Outside, a collection of palapas sprawl out upon the powdery white sand beach, only feet away from the azure water’s edge. You won’t find a better place to day dream anywhere! If you’re not in the mood for a beach, you can head over to the lovely pool and sink into a lounger with a Piña Colada and a good book. Feeling a little achy or have a few knots in your back? Alma, their spa, is waiting when you need a hot stone massage or a facial. CasaSandra is what we call a “carry-on” luggage destination. Sunglasses, shorts, a T-shirt and swim suit and you’re ready to go. New Jetsetters GLOSS 99
Lupaia, A Country Estate In The Heart Of Tuscany By Deborah M. Thompson
I am floating on a cloud of silky softness, relaxed beyond my wildest dreams. The king bed is a cloud beneath me, every muscle in my body feeling as light as dandelion fluff. A soft breeze blows through windows flung wide to a Tuscan landscape that rolls out like a patchwork quilt, valleys of khaki and emerald green, hills of ochre and cinnamon. I inhale deeply, picking out delicate notes of fresh earth, meadow flowers and ripe fruit. My eyes want to close in bliss, but I can’t bear to miss one second of this experience. My eyes linger upon the medieval walled village of Montepulciano on the horizon, adding a sublime, somewhat surreal touch to this experience. Here and there, ancient farmhouse estates and monasteries poke through the undulating hills; tall Italian Cypress trees lining their gravel access roads, crisscrossing the landscape like small rocky seams that sew the quilt together.
approach worthy of any five-star property we’ve endorsed. Here, they oversee five ancient farmhouse buildings that have been uncompromisingly re-imagined into adorable suites, each one as unique as the individual building structures would permit, all with either a terrace or yard, all with spectacular views of the vast and rolling Tuscan countryside and the walled medieval villages of Montepulciano and Montefollonico presiding over them.
All I can hear is the pleasant chirping of tiny birds flitting from silver tipped olive trees to the fully fruited cherry tree below. The distant sound of a car door slamming, however, brings me back to earth, reminding me that I am, incredibly, NOT dreaming. At Lupaia, dreams become reality. An airline ticket to Italy, a rental car programmed with the coordinates for “Località Lupaia, 74, 53049 Torrita di Siena”, and an adventurous spirit are all that you will need.
The Montepulciano Suite, so named because of the stunning view of that very medieval town through the large bedroom windows, is a study in the art of meditation. Once upon a time it was actually a schoolhouse, but one would never really know that now. High, vaulted ceilings, terra-cotta tiled floors, and walls the color of aged parchment blend seamlessly, with touches of mocha, creamy ivory and toast. Classic floral prints decorate the walls, jute drapes and a throw-rug complete the large, airy space, with aureate wall sconces adding a touch of honeyed-light at night. Large windows open wide on each side to make this suite extra bright and welcoming, perfect for taking advantage of the cooling, earth and blossom scented breeze that blows through the Tuscan hills and valleys. A large, flat-screen TV sits on an antique sideboard, but as usual, we never even turned it on. An air conditioner was perfect for cooling down the suite on the particularly warm afternoons and evenings.
The Timeless Romance of Lupaia It is difficult for me to write about this endearing Tuscan property without waxing poetic; the collective beauty of the property and the surroundings, the character and romantic ambiance of the accommodations, and yes, even the loveliness of the staff make it quite the effort to write with any kind of detachment. To add to the charm of Lupaia, it sits upon a foundation laid over 1,000 years ago; imbuing this rambling farmhouse estate with an almost palpable essence of romance. The lovely Austrian couple who are now the owners of this property, Heidi and Christopher Mueller, have found their true calling in life as proprietors of Lupaia, running the elegant hotel with a personal
Spellbinding Suites We were captivated by the Montepulciano Suite, our home for five days, just long enough to seduce us with its magnificent views, charming interior decor, and splendid private terrace overlooking the wide-open Tuscan landscape and the pretty lawn lounge area (perfect for a preor post-dinner drink or coffee in the mornings).
The lovely bathroom in the Montepulciano Suite boasts an enormous, claw-foot Victorian bathtub perfect for soaking sore muscles after a day of exploring medieval villages. A window above a pedestal sink opens wide; from here you can hear the
An Entrance To Paradise
A Lounging Area At Lupaia
Pino The Barn Cat
Lupaia’s Open Kitchen
The Montepulciano Suite
Lupaia’s Restaurant And Dining Terrace
The Terrace Of The Montepulciano Suite
Lupaia’s Pool With A View
Living Room Of The Montepulciano Suite
chirping of tiny birds in the foliage outside the window, and if you shift your gaze to the horizon, the magical vision of Montefollonico perched on the hilltop is a beautiful sight. A large shower with excellent water-pressure completes this dreamy bathroom. The bedroom is simple and serene; it offers plenty of storage for your clothes in a large antique wardrobe. The king size bed is perfect for sweet dreams - with eyes closed or open. Windows are screened, so leave the windows open all night and fall asleep with the vision of Montepulciano twinkling in the distance. We felt very lucky to find ourselves at Lupaia during a full moon. As we watched, an immense and perfect deep-golden orb slowly climbed up into the sky over the medieval village, casting an enchanting orange glow over the domes and spires of the village, a vision that prompted us to open a bottle of champagne and raise a toast, spellbound and silent. This will forever be a cherished memory. The Beating Heart of Lupaia Lupaia claims a large parcel of land in “Torrita di Siena”, complete with its very own olive orchard from which they produce their own organic “Lupiai 1622” Olive Oil, and I understand that getting the organic designation is quite a feat, so congrats to Heidi and Christopher for achieving this. We have brought some home but cannot bring ourselves to open the beautiful bottle yet. The main building, also referred to as the mansion, is home to the reception desk where you will find the lovely Christina or Francesca, one of whom will welcome you upon arrival and check you into your suite. From here you will see into the immense living/dining room and open kitchen, the “beating heart” of Lupaia that extends a warm embrace to all guests. The decor is both eclectic and yet traditional; hardwood floors with tapestried throw rugs, an enormous fireplace dominated by an immense wooden mantle holds masses of flickering candles. Large, rugged tables invite guests to seek refuge from either the heat or cold, as the case may be.
Antique mirrors reflect the glow of brass and copper from the open-air kitchen which has a unique floor to ceiling red and white checkerboard tile wall. Here you will find the huge center-island that is the setting for the gorgeous country breakfast offered to guests every morning. More about this later! Through the back of the kitchen and living room lies the Lupaia Terrace. An intimate space, with plenty of tables, some tucked away here and there for those who cherish romance (even at breakfast!). Tables are set and ready for you when your hunger pangs strike. As Chef Andrea slices, dices, sautés and whips up some delicious Tuscan cuisine, Chef Waiter Marco hovers like a hummingbird, flitting from table to table and chirping out his greetings to guests with the easy air of a man who loves his job. His good-natured and casual demeanor truly complements the low-key vibe of this resort; his open smile and ability to welcome newcomers in a way that makes them feel instantly at home is quite a gift that owners Heidi and Christopher truly appreciate. Marco has passed his hosting style along to the other staff; Jas and Renata who work at both the breakfast and dinner service are also kind and attentive. We also loved the presence of Lupaia’s barn cat, “Pino” out on the terrace. We became very fond of this little gray cat as the days went by (truth to tell, we would have loved to bring him home with us). Quiet moments on the terrace became extra special when Pino would come by and, at my invitation hop up onto my lap for some serious cuddling and napping. A Day at Lupaia Start your day by waking up slowly to the chirping of the birds and the sight of a yellow sun slowly making its way across the Val d’Orcia, the rays touching the emerald and khaki greens of the hillsides with gold. Perhaps you will choose to head straight down to the breakfast terrace, where Marco will extend a warm greeting and seat you at a table of your choice. Wake up with freshly ground coffee (a latte or cappuccino perhaps?) and some freshly squeezed orange juice. Continued on page 130
“Underneath It All� Exploring Geejam Port Antonio
Port Antonio has a primordial, untouched quality that makes you feel like you are Eve (or Adam, as it may be) waking up on that first day in the Garden of Eden (before all the bad stuff happens).
Pampered Privacy In Port Antonio Jamaica
INTRODUCTION Port Antonio, on the wildly lush North Eastern coast of Jamaica, is hands-down the most unique and stunning Parish in Jamaica. I can say this with authority because as a frequent visitor to Jamaica (six times) I have been able to explore much of it, from the long, white beaches and rocky cliffs of Negril to the sandy coves and tranquil waters of Ocho Rios, the waterfalls of Montego Bay, and the vibrant floral beauty of St. Anne’s Parish. If you’ve never heard of Port Antonio before, I wouldn’t be surprised. There was a brief, but glorious period of high-end tourism from the 1940s to the 1960's when mega-glam Hollywood leading man Errol Flynn accidentally washed ashore on his yacht and became immediately smitten with the romance of the landscape. His decision to “stay awhile”, far from the bright lights and pesky gossipmongers in America introduced a new chapter in the small, sleepy banana-port town. Soon movie stars were arriving by the yacht full to spend time at Flynn’s estate and indulge in a hedonistic lifestyle they would never even be able to think of back home. Flynn was the first to introduce the concept of rafts floating down the gorgeous Rio Grand filled not with bananas as they were intended, but with celebrities and millionaires. Fast forward to a new breed of celebrities who have discovered this new-age hideaway, this time courtesy of one Jon Baker, a once-upona-time punk-loving Brit who cut his savvy businessman-teeth as the head of Gee Street record label in London. After working for years representing hip-hop artists and other pop music heavy-hitters such as Queen Latifah,
Geejam’s Private Beach
Drums and Base View
Drums and Base Suite Canyon Suite Interior
feeling a need to retreat and rejuvenate, John purchased a parcel of land in the San San district of Port Antonio, stretching along the foothills of the John Crow and Blue Mountains. He purchased it sight-unseen. It seems like the man has good instincts. We were honoured to stay at two of Geejam’s best accommodations, the sprawling Panorama Villa, once the main vacation home for Audrey Hepburn and her family “back in the day”, and then a few days in a suite called “Drum and Bass” with a gorgeous Philippe Starck bathroom and views to die for. It was wonderfully soundproofed as well, considering this unit has the GeeJam Recording Studio right above it. . Apart from Drum and Bass, the property offers three other cottages, Ska, Rock Steady and Mento, each just a little bit different. While we didn’t get to experience cabins other than Drum and Bass as the property was
fully occupied, we could see them nestled in amongst the trees and vegetation, each with their own charm. A villa called Sanwood is directly associated with the property and offers a private swimming pool. If the Villa is not rented out, the pool is made available to other guests. The property is rounded out by a beautiful spa which we did not see (located right above the recording studio) and an air-conditioned gym with weights and the usual equipment necessary to those who don’t want to put their fitness on hold.
UNDERNEATH IT ALL View of Basilica di Santa Maria Della Salute
The Bushbar One of Castello Di Spalteena’s Pools
GeeJam’s Recording Studio
Visit newjetsetters.com for our video feature
Geejam is comprised of the main resort, a collection of cozy cabins that offer privacy and something that has been called “shabby chic” by some; we prefer to say it has an unpretentious luxury for those who like barefoot charm, and three private villas. The on-site world-class recording studio has been, and remains, a magnet for recording artists such as Harry Styles, Gwen Stefani, Katy Perry, Alicia Keys, John Legend, Drake, Queen Latifah, even Amy Winehouse. There is no doubt that this place holds a certain mystical magic and underthe-radar appeal for the world-weary. The most recent private villas, called Cocosan and The Gritti Palace Epicurean School Panorama. are a few minutes drive further up the road from the nucleus of Geejam, but if you’re staying at one of them a driver is always at your fingertips for the quick ride down for a meal or a massage (or to record a song or two). Panorama Villa is a retreat in the purest sense of the word. Surrounded on all sides by incredible views, you can stand on the expansive lawn beside the swimming pool and feel your blood pressure take a healthy dip as you inhale the pure, blossom-scented air. Pick a direction – any direction and be prepared to see what earth once must have looked like Club del Doge Restaurant when it was still young. The picturesque peaks of the John Crow and Blue Mountains command the horizon as you gaze, but as you turn full-circle, the surreal view of the Caribbean ocean reveals striations of aqua, turquoise & green. Glance to either side and the panoply of vegetation takes over. The flowing, split-tails of the Doctor Hummingbird appear as you gaze at bougainvillea and hydrangea; palm trees clatter on the warm wind. Never mind that you have at your disposal a supremely wonderful staff that will be at your discrete beck and call while you are on site (“we’re The Gritti Palace Lobby here to look after you! All you have to do is relax and enjoy”).
Panorama Villa is a sprawling Caribbean retreat, nicely separated for families or groups of friends. The massive kitchen could easily host a cooking-show, with a gorgeous, marble countertop island that easily seats 5, a gas grill, stainless steel sink and a separate bar sink built into the island. Plenty of cupboards house all the necessary items to make even a prolonged stay a distinct pleasure. You don’t have to touch anything in the kitchen unless you want to, though! Your staff will get you anything you desire. No worries, mon.
AN AMAZING ARRIVAL We had arranged for a car and driver to pick us up at the Kingston Airport; we never feel ready to tackle the sometimes terrifying, rambling two and one half hour drive from Kingston Airport through the Blue Mountains on our own. The drive, though, is astoundingly beautiful, and if you can get past the fact that your car seems to cling precariously to the sides of mountains at times, and dismiss the frequent tooting of the car horn by your driver, you will really enjoy the ride. River Wing Lobby
In the hands of a good driver you will be vastly entertained. Most of the Jamaican drivers we’ve encountered are born storytellers and will fill your ears with their tales and laughter, By though Deborahit Thompson may take some time to understand their Jamaican patois. One thing is for sure; you will not be bored during the journey! Our arrival at Geejam was problem-free; Villa Guest Services Agent Floyd Speid met our car just outside the main property, welcoming us to paradise and telling us how much we were going to love our stay at Panorama Villa. As we drove further up the winding road it felt like with warm smiles.
Beautiful Frenchman’s Cove
The Peggy Guggenheim Suite Bedroom
Geejam Beach
we had taken a detour into the centre of the Garden of Eden. Flowering bushes surrounded us, birds chirped, swooped and sang, and we even had some wandering goats stare curiously at us as they snacked on the prolific vegetation lining the road. Soon we stopped outside a gate, and a few words incomprehensible words shouted at the intercom gained us entrance to the driveway. Ahead, a spacious parking area bordered the villa entrance – charmingly created by sculpting trees to form a living arch. Before we could even think of opening the doors ourselves our “staff” were there, greeting us by name with warm smiles. Two staff would be on-site during the day at all times to help us with whatever we wanted or needed, and at night a security man would check regularly on the property and make sure all was well. Soon we were being escorted through the various rooms of the Panorama Villa, and yes, we were impressed!
PANORAMA VILLA An airy, sophisticated ambiance embraced the master bedroom, with billowy sheers and a sexy, cigar-themed print in tobacco tones lending a Miami-chic vibe to the room. Large windows and wooden shutters gave you the choice of as much light (or privacy) as you wanted, also giving you the option of allowing a tropical breeze to blow through the room if temperatures were tolerable. The large (very large!) King bed was supercomfortable and the tiled floor was sensuously cool to the toes. Also, a huge bathroom has an enormous stand-alone shower and a separate deep-soaker tub (in case relaxing by your pool all day stresses you out.)
View of Basilica di Santa Maria Della Salute
Patio doors led to your own private section of the huge yard overlooking the forested slopes, with the grand turquoise horizon inspiring deep, relaxing breaths and a sigh of appreciation for the natural world.
Panorama Villa
Panorama Villa Living Room
With four enormous bedrooms complete with their very own bathrooms, this design is also perfect for couples with children or friends but value private time to relax on their own outside without having to be rude. Early morning and late afternoon were perfect times to sit in the chairs with a glass of wine or a Red Stripe, The Gritti Palace Epicurean School watching the sun reflecting off the ocean at just the perfect angle, and catching glimpses of birds and butterflies flitting from branch to branch. If you are searching for a state of Zen, you will find it here. Should you have your own car while staying here, there is an enormous private courtyard/parking lot outside your beautiful treed-arch entrance.
UNIQUE AND OVER THE TOP SERVICE Being greeted by your “staff� is quite a treat, especially when they are as welcoming and Club del Doge Restaurant lovely as Deidre and Lloyd. Various other property staff were also there to say hello and acquaint themselves with us, including the Security Guard, Morrie, and two members of his VIP security team, guard-dogs Tequila and Misty. If I told you one was huge and looked a tiny bit frightening and the other looked like an adorable dust mop, which name do you think belonged to which? Well of course Misty was the guard dog. Misty was so lovable I think she would probably lick an intruder to death, however I would not want to be the person putting that to the test while trespassing in the middle of the night. The Gritti Palace Lobby A Pool With a View At Panorama Villa
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The Ama Divers Of Ise Shima, Japan Continued from page 25
Curious, I asked the interpreter if Tomomo could tell us why they wore white cotton clothing when they dived, and why the Ama were all women. I also asked why they still held to these traditional methods of harvesting shellfish when today’s technology would make the job so much easier and faster. The white cotton, Tomomo explained, was worn because they believe it makes them harder to see by the dangerous sharks that live in this part of the ocean. (That gave me a chill of terror). The Ama are all women, she explained, because it is believed that the higher fat content and design of a female makes them more suited to free-diving in the cold Pacific ocean. Her answer regarding holding on to the traditional harvesting methods, however, really impressed me, not only with the Ama in general, but with the Japanese culture in its entirety.
Out of respect for the ocean” our translator replied, speaking for Tomomo. Further discussion revealed that the Ama and indeed their communities understand the risks of over-fishing, of taking too much, and most of all, not respecting the sea and the creatures that provide sustenance for the people of Japan. Even governments, the institutions that in many cases are only too quick to promote the rape of a country’s natural resources, are on board with the philosophy of “respect”. Abalone smaller than 10.6 cm must not be taken, a rule strictly obeyed by the Ama. They also will not take turban snails, sea urchins or sea cucumbers that are under size. Even the harvest of seaweed is restricted because it is the food source for the abalone and turban snails. Harvest is restricted to specific seasons, number of days and location. Marine preserves are honoured. In an age where “environmental protection” and
“ecological preservation” are tossed around by governments in an effort to appear responsible, it seems Japan has been doing this with honesty and dedication all along. How “Chado” (The Way of Tea) is mirrored in Japanese Communities Having been a guest at a formal Japanese Tea Ceremony earlier in the week, I saw the cardinal philosophy of “Chado” being meticulously demonstrated right in front of me in the Ama Hut. “The Way of Tea” Beverly Hills Hotel Lobby is defined as a tradition of social communion, art, design and spirituality, all woven together to enrich a simple and sincere exchange of refreshment between guest and host. It occurred to me, as we sat together enjoying simple, beautiful and artfully prepared food, learning about the Ama culture and hearing about their spiritual beliefs, that the Chado philosophy was not confined to having tea. The essential “Four Principles of Tea” as defined by Chado are echoed even out here in the simple wooden Ama Huts that dot the meandering Pacific coastline of Japan. “Wa”, “Kei”, “Sei” and “Jaku” (Harmony, Respect, Purity and Tranquility respectively) are held near and dear to the heart of the Ama. Their lifelong dedication and practice of these beliefs, combined with integrity and perseverance, make them a truly awesome group of women. Even the most confident North American woman will feel inspired by the Ama and will step back on board the bus feeling somehow even more empowered and motivated. I know I did! Thank you to the Japanese National Tourism Organization and Hiromi Koboyashi for allowing us the opportunity to meet the Ama and experience a beautiful luncheon with them in the Ama Huts. It was a Japanese cultural experience I will never forget. NEW JETSETTERS GLOSS MAGAZINE
Meet You At The Dorchester Continued from page 28
The China Tang China Tang is a gorgeous restaurant with a rather unique interior design that evokes the ambiance of an elegant British drawing room fused with the calming zen of Chinese interior design. Dark woods and rich red fabrics adorn the walls, private rooms boast opulent upholstery and traditional Asian prints. We enjoyed dinner there last year and had an excellent experience. While we did not have time to sample the ”Spatisserie”, located in the heart of the award-winning Dorchester Spa, I
love their ethos “A little of what you love is good for you”. They promise light lunches and luxury afternoon tea in an elegant setting, offering “delicate, bite-size cakes, biscuits and pastries, savoury nibbles, and champagne and spa cocktails”. Wish I’d had time to sample this! The Promenade The Promenade sprawls out behind the main lobby, a wide, inviting swathe of tangerine drapes, mint green settees and ottomans. Button-tucked booths are dressed in delicious ochre and malachite fabrics that invite you to sink into their comfortable depths and enjoy a famous Dorchester Afternoon Tea. This is another event which we only wish we’d been able to stay long enough to enjoy. If you are ever in London and have the chance, don’t miss it. Apparently “The Tea” is served by waiters dressed in English-style Long Coats, proffering a staggering assortment of teas, and of course all the essentials of a tea served in London at one of the most famous hotels in the world. Fingers sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, pastry trays and a selection of freshly made patisseries – but this is not all that that an “Afternoon Tea at the Dorchester” has to offer! There are many different kinds of Tea events to take in!
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There is the aforementioned “Traditional Afternoon Tea” which features Head Pastry Chef David Girard’s beautiful “Artisanal Flowering Tea’ palate cleanser and a new season of beautiful, delicate pastries, and then there is the “Champagne Afternoon Tea”. Choose between Laurent-Perrier NV Champagne, Laurent-Perrier Cuvée Rosé Champagne or a glass of Dom Pérignon Vintage Champagne for a special occasion. Those with children will not want to miss the “Sleeping Beauty Afternoon Tea” (unfortunately only available on specific dates, so
check those out before heading there for this event). There’s also the famous annual “October Half Term Children’s Afternoon Tea” with a performance by English National Ballet School’s young dancers. Then there is the “Christmas Carols Afternoon Tea” and the “Festive Afternoon Tea”, and should all these NOT be enough to choose from, the one I am particularly fascinated with is the “Chocolate Indulgence” Afternoon Tea. The Chocolate Indulgence features a hot chocolate trolley where guests create a tailormade blend from not 5, not 10, but 12 different chocolates to create a truly memorable indulgence. The Grill We were thrilled to be able to have a late dinner at The Grill, which has apparently been recently re-envisioned and quite a departure from the previous look. We were almost the only guests in the restaurant because of our late flight arrival; we were treated like royalty. Our table in the corner of the room gave us an excellent view of the strikingly ornate Murano glass chandelier; unfortunately because I was jet-lagged and running on fumes, I have only a vague recollection of the details of the room itself. I do recall thinking that I had perhaps been shrunk, Alice in Wonderland style, to the size of a chocolate and awakened inside a box of Toffifee. This may have been because of the buttery-caramel leather chairs, the hazelnut and chocolate coloured walls and the creamy nougat and butterscotch tones of glimmering wall panels, with the gilded goldmirrored ceiling reflecting and surrounding you in all these warm, delicious colours. Designed to pivot from day to night, the wall panels, our server was proud to tell us, cleverly create an inviting atmosphere whether guests are enjoying a business lunch with friends by day or a romantic tete-a-tete by night. The menu, created by Alain Ducasse protégé Christophe Marleix had a number of appealing items, though because of the late hour we felt a heavy meal would not be the best idea. I did, however, enjoy a rich and creamy Blue Lobster chowder and was blown away by my dessert, a Sicilian Pistachio/Salted Caramel Soufflé. We also sampled a simply gorgeous “Essentially Chocolate” Sphere studded with delicious hazelnuts. Of course The Grill has had more than it’s fair share of celebrities and notable world citizens throughout its illustrious history; just in the last New Jetsetters GLOSS 113
decade, prominent guests have included Dr. Mandela, Woody Allen, Barbra Streisand, Diana Ross, Glenn Close, Karl Lagerfeld, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Sharon Stone and many, many more. As they like to say: “Glamorous patronage of The Dorchester is only part of the legend.” Ever since I was a child and heard the nursery rhyme “Pussycat, Pussycat Where Have You Been?” the possibility of “I’ve been to London to Visit the Queen” has had a magical appeal to me. So, while I may not have actually been able to visit Queen Elizabeth herself, I do feel like I’ve been able to meet a true London celebrity and yes, even a “Royal” – The Dorchester London. There are reasons why a hotel achieves a “Five Star” status – and I believe The Dorchester London goes above and beyond even what is expected of this classification.
Iconic hotels like The Dorchester can feel proud that they have continued a history of appreciating guests and maintaining a discriminating level of luxury throughout the years. NEW JETSETTERS GLOSS MAGAZINE
A Passion For Fashion: With Style Room New York Continued from page 42
DidBeverly I Hills prefer bright colours, or was I more Hotel Lobby conservative? Did I prefer prints or solids? Would I like to see clothing and jewelry designs, or just one or the other? I was already impressed with her service and I hadn’t even left for New York yet!
FINAL THOUGHTS From the moment you step from your executive car and are greeted by the professional and smiling bellmen, from the warm greeting by name at the Reception Desk, the swift and courteous delivery of your luggage to your room, and finding a small gift ready and waiting inside the door of your gorgeously prepared suite, you feel not only warmly welcomed but “special”. Of course, The Dorchester has to be one of the world’s most lauded Five-Star hotels and has maintained this status for generations. Every nook and cranny of this hotel reflects an uncompromising level of care and attention to detail, every staff member reflects a commitment to not only guest satisfaction, but to surpass expectations. For example, as we were being shown around our suite, I exclaimed over the lovely bathtub in the gleaming, white marble bathroom. The bellman proudly explained that the Dorchester London is famous for having the “deepest bathtubs in London” and asked me if I was a bath aficionado. As I am particularly fond of a long, comfortable soak I was enthusiastic with my “Yes!” A little later there was a polite knock on our door. The bellman had sent over two exquisite vials of beautifully packaged, signature Dorchester Bath Oils for me. This sort of attention to detail, this ability to please a guest with some unexpected action or response, is what makes a hotel truly luxurious. As we have said so many times, it is the staff who will make memories of a hotel sublime, just average or downright terrible. These are the experiences that guests will rave about to friends and family, write about on Social Media, and remember for future vacation plans. Great staff are almost always the reason that people want to return again and again to a specific hotel.
As we chatted in the jewelry store I eyed the beautiful designs displayed along the far wall. Each item was very unique and I knew I would be going home with something beautiful. Karen helped me choose a number of different designs; I took my time trying different necklaces on until I found “the perfect one”. I knew this would be the piece that would link me forever to my fabulous visit to New York City. As Karen states: “I provide access to a shopping experience that people can’t find on their own. “Behind Locked Doors” brings new designers and new clients together in a unique setting – their workshops. Seeing them working in their studios, watching them at the cutting table, designing their patterns, that’s where the appreciation begins. When clients wear their purchases back home, there is always a fun story to recount, and it also instantly connects the client to the designer and where they were were when they bought the item – a great memory”. As I was taking an abbreviated tour due to the short length of my stay in NYC, we walked to our next destination, just a few blocks away. To my
surprise, Karen had already been in touch with the designers and they had put an entire rack of pre-selected items in my size and colour preference aside for me. They did an amazing job of customizing the selection. I instantly found two items that I really loved – both of them unique and not something I had seen in the big department stores earlier in the week. With the discount that Karen is able to obtain for her clients, the purchases were an excellent value and the craftsmanship absolutely beautiful. I also got to meet all the staff and look at bolts of fabrics that were going to be part of the upcoming fall lineup. I have never been into sewing, but seeing the sketches hung on the wall, and the steps necessary to design a garment was absolutely fascinating. After watching them at work at the cutting table I felt a whole new appreciation for the fashion industry. Although I was alone for my Personal Shopping Tour, I could well imagine how much fun a group would have in these circumstances. From bestfriend or mother-daughter birthday outings to bachelorette parties looking to bond before that special wedding day, Karen’s shopping tours are perfect for just about any occasion. Karen also hosts larger groups and works with luxury brands such as prestige car dealerships who reward their staff with NYC Style Room Shopping Experiences as incentives. Interestingly, she often has men as clients; they contact her looking for help finding something special to surprise their wives, girlfriends or partners with. From corporate lawyers who want a business suit with “a bit of an edge” to wealthy socialites from Dubai who purchase six evening ball gowns, Karen sometimes books five days in a row. Even the wives of the New York Mets and the Pittsburgh Pirates have taken advantage of Karen’s bespoke services for large groups, and from the smiles on their faces and the sunshine yellow “Style Room NYC” shopping bags in their hands it is obvious they enjoyed the experience very much. Ladies, this is simply a “must-do” on your next (or first!) trip to New York City. Men, this is something you need to know about when you want to seriously impress the love of your life with a special surprise. New York is known the world over for setting trends in fashion and beauty and is home to some very talented fashion designers and style mavens. Owner/President of Style Room NYC Shopping Experiences Karen Parker O’Brien knows just about all of them. Her innovative “Behind Locked Doors” shopping tours is truly a delightful take on shopping in NYC .
Karen Parker O’Brien is President of Style Room NYC Shopping Tour Experiences. visit: www.styleroom.com NEW JETSETTERS GLOSS MAGAZINE
Romance in the Park: A Carriage Ride with Central Park Sightseeing Continued from page 47
Often referred to as an “urbanized Eden”, Central Park is 843 acres of rolling lawns and meadows, lakes, pathways, ponds, statues and fountains. Our 50-minute ride was simply perfect to give us an idea of the scope of this world-renowned park and see some of the highlights. John knew many of the hidden locations for some of the world’s most popular movies, from Spiderman 3 with Toby Maguire to “A Night at the Museum” and of course, “When Harry Met Sally” and “Home Alone” to mention a few. Many Beatles fans come here of course, to pay respect to their beloved John Lennon whose unforgettable song “Strawberry Fields Forever” is celebrated in Central Park, directly across the street from the stunning, Victorian-era “Dakota” building where he was fatally shot back in 1980. We passed the star-shaped “Imagine” Memorial, glimpsing the “International Garden of Peace” as it is sometimes called, where people milled about, sitting on park benches and picnicking on the warm grass. John stopped frequently for photos, or to simply allow us to have a look around, something we really appreciated. This has always been one of our pet peeves with group tours – not being able to stop when you want, or being forced to sit and wait for others. The only one really calling the shots was Oscar, as he let us know when he wanted to stop for a long drink before he would continue on.
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We trundled on, passing the Great Lawn where softball groups hold the field on weekends and the sweet sounds of music float on a summer breeze on special evenings. As we passed the breathtaking, milky blue-green Reservoir John stopped for a few minutes so we could take a good look at this scenic area. Across the wide expanse he pointed out two striking buildings on the horizon, which he informed us were the “San Remo” Towers, home to countless celebrities from all walks of life since the time they were built. Bono, Dustin Hoffman, Demi Moore, Steve Jobs…. The list goes on and on. Recognized as one of the most iconic buildings in New York City, the prestige associated with living at this address is considerable. Looking at the twin towers which gaze out over the lush expanse of Central Park, we could only imagine what they must be like inside. All too soon, we neared our final destination: the famous Tavern on the Green Restaurant. Built in 1870, this gorgeous and iconic restaurant was renovated in 2013 after its popularity dropped off due to the need for an update. It has a rather unusual and fascinating history that many people don’t even know about. Originally it was known as “The Sheepfold”. Bordering the vast green expanse of lawn called “Sheep Meadow”, Tavern on the Green was once the cozy sleeping quarters for herds of pedigreed sheep that grazed by day in the 15-acre meadow, now a designated “quiet green space” for picnickers, book readers and daydreamers. Tavern on the Green was featured in the 1980 version of “Ghostbusters”, “Wall Street” and “New York, I Love You”. This restaurant has been a favourite in the past and is once again becoming popular for many celebrities who love the rustic-chic atmosphere. Looking back on our week in NYC, the afternoon spent with Central Park Sightseeing was one of our favourite activities. Clopping along the long stretches of The Mall, swaying softly in our cushy carriage, surrounded by towering trees and flowering bushes, our blood pressure dropped, our sense of well-being swelled and life simply felt good. Watching fellow nature-lovers cycling, walking and running, dogs playing and rolling in the thick grass, and squirrels peering down from their perches on the limbs of enormous trees, we joined in with our fellow humans (and horses of course) enjoying the natural beauty of this manmade Urban Eden.
Central Park Sightseeing is a multi-level service provider in New York City offering a full range of services including bike rentals, bike tours, carriage tours, pedicab tours, walking tours and much more. New Jetsetters was fortunate to experience their “Carriage and Tavern On The Green” package. NEW JETSETTERS GLOSS MAGAZINE
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All the restaurants are clustered at the far end of the lobby floor, conveniently arranged in sections that can be closed off until the time they open. Restaurants Although time did not permit us to dine at the Conrad Tokyo except for breakfast and lunch, we have to say those experiences were quite good. Each morning we would glide down from our room in the elevator to “Cerise”. We would be greeted immediately by Bridge one OfofSighs theCellsmany, many staff on hand, and seated in the contemporary restaurant which at this time of day is set up with buffet-style stations overflowing with some fabulous choices. All the usual yummies were present, including, of course, typical Japanese breakfast fare. We appreciated the fact that we could also choose a-la-carte if desired for those mornings you just want to sit and be served. If you can score a table at the back of the restaurant, which is harder to do than expected, you can enjoy some beautiful downtown Tokyo views.
Accommodations Our King Bay Room was lovely. Very spacious at 516 sq. ft., we loved the “open concept” of the beautiful bathroom/bedroom space featuring a glass partition with electronic blinds. Depending on your mood or the circumstances, you can raise
the blinds to provide privacy while bathing, or allow for an airy and panoramic bathing experience in the freestanding deep-soaker tub (complete with your own yellow rubber ducky). A large shower stall and the water closet were each in private cubicles, and double white marble sinks and a stylish circular mirror with outstanding lighting for makeup made this one of the nicest standard room bathrooms we’ve ever had. We also loved the amenities – Aromatherapy Associates “Balance” has always been one of our favorite luxury brands. All amenities, including toothbrush and toothpaste and loofah were replenished daily. We loved the delicate, e-sumi art across the wall behind the king bed. E-sumi is a 2,000 year old Swan Lake art-form of Japanese brush painting that is spiritually rooted in Zen Buddhism, and the delicate cherry-blossom design breathes serenity and whispers of sweet-dreams. The bed was supremely comfortable and afforded a beautiful view both in the morning and at night. Speaking Bar Longhi of night, turn-down service was excellent, providing fresh water, a sweet or two, and on your first night, a pair of adorable Conrad teddy-bears to make you smile in delight. We also greatly enjoyed the wall-to-wall window seat with pillows, the perfect place to enjoy one of the treats left in your room during the day and enjoy the view. Our favourite in-room treat was a selection of Japanese sweets presented in the form of sushi! Delicious and very creative! The Little Extras As I have stated so many times before, it is usually the “little extra’s” that a brand dishes out that can make the difference between a “pretty good” experience and “an absolutely amazing experience” that a guest will talk about forever and will never forget. We loved that there were simply so many staff on site who could answer any questions and often would go out of their way to assist you when they absolutely didn’t have too. For instance, my first morning at Cerise I needed to find my way to the ladies room. The host at the entrance to the restaurant insisted on leading me directly there rather than just telling me where to go. We also love that there was never a wait at the front desk to chat with anyone, and we really were impressed when our request to have a very late checkout was met with “of course!” rather than the usual response that they might be able to squeeze out an extra half hour or an hour at the most. With a mid-evening flight, we were not looking forward to having to be out of our room and stuck without a place to freshen up for the rest
of the day. They allowed us to stay until 4 PM when we needed to leave for the airport. Although we didn’t have time to take advantage of the Conrad Tokyo’s “Curated Experience List”, the next time we most definitely will give it a whirl. They have come up with 1, 3 and 5-hour itineraries for guests who want to see the very best of their destination without wasting time trying to figure out which highlights are important. Put together by Peter Jon Lindberg, Conrad’s “Director of Inspiration” (God I love that title!), Peter was Executive Editor at Condé Nast Traveler, Editorat-Large at Saveur Magazine and Travel + Leisure and Managing Editor of the Let’s Go guidebook series before joining Conrad Hotels. Peter has a lot of expertise when it comes to inspired travel and next time we’re in Tokyo and staying at the Conrad, we’ll give one of these itineraries a try out to see what we think! Final Thoughts Sometimes it is difficult to get excited about travelling to a large city, and staying at a big-city hotel. This can often mean uninspired accommodations, noisy rooms, perfunctory staff, and “cookie cutter” restaurants and lounges. We have sometimes returned home after a “city trip” feeling disappointed, unsure of what “sense of place” we were able to identify and almost relieved to be home. We’re very happy to say this was not the case after our recent stay at The Conrad Tokyo. From the moment we arrived at the Conrad Tokyo to the moment we left, we felt like we were somewhere special, we felt the true spirit of Japan surrounding us, reflected in the décor, the ambiance and the hotel staff. Well done, Conrad Tokyo. We can’t wait to return one day.
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Paradise In Mayakoba Continued from page 66
gorgeous view out over the lush greenery, as butterflies waft by to visit flowering bushes and plants and small, colourful birds dart in and amongst leaves and branches. At night, the sexy lounge vibe ramps up as candles are lit and the canvas of a starlit sky opens up above you. Bar service is fabulous and they have a decent bar menu to keep you happy if you are feeling peckish. Saffron Restaurant An amazing meal can be had at the gorgeous “Saffron” restaurant, serving exquisitely crafted Thai cuisine on a floating platform out over the water. If it is a little too warm or if you are mosquito bait, there is an elegant, air conditioned dining room. Either choice is guaranteed to offer a stunning and memorable meal experience. If the view of the water reflecting the glitter of stars and the glow of the moon isn’t enough to impress you, the culinary perfection of Thai Chef Renu Homsombat’s creations certainly will. If you’re feeling the urge to impress your partner even further, ask restaurant staff about the possibility of taking part in an authentic Chinese Lantern ceremony to end the beautiful evening with a special wish. As you and your loved one hold the delicate paper lantern, staff will light the flame inside it and tell you to make a wish, and as the lantern takes on a life of it’s own and floats up and away, it seems almost possible that your wish could come true.
Tomahawk Den If you’ve never had a Tomahawk Steak before, this would be the place to try one. Aside from the visual extravagance of having your server carve the steak from the immense bone table side, the freshly grilled and seasoned meat is barbecued mouth-wateringly tender and delicious. It is not
cheap, but you are getting some of the best food available in the Mayakoba and the surroundings are simply beautiful. It’s highly recommended and located inside the Oriente restaurant. Tamarind and Oriente While we only had breakfast at Tamarind and Oriente, both experiences were excellent. The buffet is excellent with plenty of quality choices and one can have made-to-order omelettes and egg dishes. Service was a little slow and disorganized Tamarind, but every table seemed Beverly Hills Hotel at Lobby to be occupied and it was very busy for the servers. Once again, the interior was aesthetically pleasing and open to the breeze coming through the property, so quite a pleasant experience. Sands Your prettier than usual Beach Bar, service is excellent and a light breeze seems to be continuously coming in off the ocean. Staff will transport you to the beach on a golf cart from the lobby or your Villa, or you can take the little boat from the courtyard if you prefer – both are a fabulous way to take in the expansive property. A chilled bottle of Rose and an order of Fajitas are the perfect accompaniment to the views of the turquoise ocean and white, sandy beach. Best of all, you can jump into the pool or the warm ocean waves to cool off when the heat becomes a little too much. In Villa Dining is also an attractive choice for meals – you may order anything you like from their menu and just sit by the pool or in your indoor/outdoor dining room and relax as they bring the food to you. For the ultimate in-villa dinner experience, call and request a private barbecue. That evening, your Mayakoba Chefs will be on site to prepare a fabulous dinner to your liking, using the freshest ingredients and featuring the “catch of the day” if you so desire. All you have to do is lay back on your lounger or have a dip in the hot tub as your meal is being prepared. Book a unique “Tapas Cruise” where small bites are served as you drift through the picturesque canals of the Mayakoba, but the most romantic option for couples in love would be cruising on board the Banyan Tree’s very own traditional “Trajinera Boat” called “The Goddess Ixchel”. Relax and enjoy an amazing breakfast or romantic dinner cruise, with international cuisine cooked to order and presented to you as you float beneath a clear, starry sky and listen to a melodic soundtrack provided by tree-frogs and cicadas.
Amazing Activities Feel like discovering more of the beauty of the Mayakoba? Take the Hotel’s own cozy little shuttle boat which glides quietly into the very heart of the Banyan Tree, the interior courtyard, on a posted schedule. You can simply stay on the boat for the round trip, catching glimpses of gleaming cormorants grooming themselves on bridges, and the occasional exotic roseate spoonbill peering down into the water, hoping to catch sight of his next meal. If you’re incredibly lucky you may see the stunning “Motmot” perched in splendour high in a tree. Of course there are also the turtles, crabs, iguanas and occasional small crocodile to keep you enthralled. On the golf course you may see small groups of racoon-like Coatimundi cavorting, or more rarely, a fat boar-like Agouti snuffling amongst the greens. Have the boat drop you off at one of the other properties – the Fairmont, the Rosewood or the newly opened Andaz – where you can have a drink on the terrace or join them for lunch for a change of scenery. Catch the boat on its next circle through – and if you’re lucky, you’ll have Mayakoba environmental expert Daniela Lara on your boat. She’ll point out and identify the types of plants, trees and flowers, educate you about the marine life in the Mayakoba, and can answer pretty much any questions you may have about the ecology of the Riviera Maya! If romance should be on your mind, indulge in some of the Banyan Tree’s signature Villa offerings. Imagine your partner’s surprise coming Bridge Of Sighs Cells back from a star-lit dinner overlooking the lagoon to find rose-petals and flickering candles lighting a path to a bottle of champagne-on-ice. Your large outdoor soaker-tub will be prepared with fragrant oils and fluffy bath towels. Of course your candlewall would be aglow for that extra “wow”. Notable Spa For the ultimate indulgence for two, a visit to “The Rainforest” is highly recommended. This state-ofthe-art “Hydrothermal Experience” at the Banyan Tree Spa will be something to remember forever as you walk through the enchanting “Rain Walk” before succumbing to the hypnotically soothing atmosphere of the “Aroma Steam Chamber”. See their complete list of amazing treatments.
ensure the fragile ecosystem would be protected and respected as much as humanly possible – a noble endeavour that has truly paid off, not only for guests lucky enough to spend time in this “lost world”, but especially for the flora and fauna that have called the Mayakoba their home for millennia. The Mayakoba now thrives; the complex chain of lagoons and canals, lush jungle and healthy mangroves function in tandem with these four hotels that recognize the importance of keeping them healthy and clean. Even deer, boar and other creatures such as Opossum, Coatimundi, and Agouti who had fled during construction are now returning, not only a delight for the guests, but also necessary for the health of the fragile ecosystem. The success of Mayakoba is in no small part due to the complex planning put into the development by the architects. The onus to keep this exquisite area as pristine and healthy as possible now lies with The Banyan Tree Mayakoba and the other three properties that have made this area their home. I believe they will continue to live up to that promise! NEW JETSETTERS GLOSS MAGAZINE
In Conversation With Chef Conroy Arnold Continued from page 69
Chef Arnold: I am not really that much of a “menu” person. I don’t have favorite go-to things. If you call on me, give me the ingredients, I’ll come up with something, be creative. I’ll just “make it happen”. NJS: What’s your favorite thing to eat?
Final Thoughts The Mayakoba area was treated with kid gloves during the planning and construction phases to
Chef Arnold: It’s simple food, like an orange, or some pasta with tomato sauce. New Jetsetters GLOSS 119
NJS: Interesting. Is it because it’s “comfort food” for you? Chef Arnold: Yes, it’s like comfort food to me. You know, I don’t really like to go to a restaurant and sit there. I think it’s because I have expectations. Then I end up not being happy. I’d rather go out and grab some granola and yogurt with some fresh fruit. NJS: I understand you like to do a lot of smoking of meats. Chef Arnold: Yeah, bacon – we make our own bacon. I think it’s because the owners here at Hermosa Cove are originally from Iowa and they smoke a lot of meats. These days you have to have a well-rounded menu, and I think more and more we push toward an “artisan style” approach to our menu – so our own bacon, our own ribs, our own sauces. When you practice this and try to embrace that philosophy it makes for an interesting menu. NJS: We had the ribs last night and they were excellent. The sauce was amazing. Chef Arnold: Yeah, our tomato sauce is smoked, that’s what makes it unique. That’s my “retirement project” (laughter). At Hermosa Cove, we pay attention to what we do. Last night we had a lot of people here, but even if we have only four people we put out the same quality of food as if we have 30 people. The biggest challenge is to do the meal just as well, but fast, for all those people. NJS: Yes, it’s one thing to be able to take all the time in the world but to do quality food fast . Chef Arnold: Yeah, you have to push each other. NJS: How did you find it working at NOBU in New York? Was there lots of pressure there? Chef Arnold: I worked with a French Chef and yes, he was really pushing me, but NOBU was great. A lot of the Chefs I’ve worked with push hard – but I like that. I don’t like soft Chefs. By the time I reached NOBU, I had the mindset as a young cook to be competitive. It was professional but it was also competitive. NOBU was a stepping stone as to how I look at food and flavour. That understanding was also key to me in how I think about presentation. We were like machines back then. We weren’t “thinkers”. It was like “Yes, Chef. Yes, Chef! Yes Chef!”
NJS: You just followed the orders. Chef Arnold: Yes. Now being here for five years I have been able to apply what I learned about consistency. You need to have five things on the menu, and you need to make those five things consistently well. So that’s what it’s about, contrasted with what you’d like to do. It’s about turning out a consistent dish. That’s what makes Macdonald's and Burger King rich (laughter). NJS: Yes I suppose. People know what to expect when goLobby there. They don’t want surprises! Beverlythey Hills Hotel Chef Arnold: Yes that’s right. One of the things I like about NOBU is that its not a TV Brand. It’s more a “style” and I think more and more people are catching on to this. A lot of it is about having integrity. NJS: Yes – when we are travelling we see the celebrity Chefs, Michelin Star Chefs, who have sold out to the “airport restaurant” chain idea. Chef Arnold: Yes. They no longer have control over the quality. Great Chefs like Thomas Keller – it’s important that they don’t sell out. It’s all about how much can you manage and how many pairs of shoes can you wear at once. Great Chefs like Thomas Keller, Jean-Georges Vongeritchen, Alain Ducasse – those are style Chefs, they are not commercialized Chefs. This is what separates great Chefs from the rest – it’s their style. For me, culture is what inspires me. I could not survive outside of this arena. I have such a love and appreciation for what Jamaica represents. That’s the direction I’m moving in as a person. I want to curate the food. I can cook it and I can talk about it, but at the end of the day what I want to become is a “reporter” of the food. I plan to start travelling through Jamaica and do a sort of “Anthony Bourdain” style show. We plan to visit all the neighbourhoods, document the food, the recipes. There is nobody else in Jamaica doing this. There is also nobody in Jamaica who can tell you where you should go to eat! I feel like there’s a need for this. I also want to be a curator of the Art of Jamaica as well. NJS: Your future vision is to bring the food and art of Jamaica to the attention of the world. This would be fascinating. You also have a website in the works that our New Jetsetters audience would probably love to visit. You’ll have to let us know when it’s ready to share. Chef Arnold: Yes it should be ready by June or July of 2017. We will be touring and interviewing
throughout Jamaica, so I hope to have some good, sharp interviews on the website. It will be tied to the concept of what we are doing here at Hermosa Cove. NJS: I know that Deb and Clayton Korver, the owners here, love your passion for the culinary arts and your unwavering commitment to local cuisine. It must be incredible for you to be able to pick your own fresh herbs, fruits and vegetables that will go into your dishes. It truly is the popular, healthy “farm to table” philosophy that is all the rage throughout the world. Chef Arnold: I’m looking forward to driving through Jamaica, listening to the stories of the great Chefs out there, learning and reporting on their techniques and the ingredients and produce of Jamaica that they are using. I want to put a spotlight on the food and Chefs of Jamaica.
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NJS: Chef, I wish you all the very best . I’m really looking forward to following your progress on your project and seeing what the rest of Jamaica has cooking! Best of luck to you and thank you for taking the time to sit with me for this interview. Follow Chef Arnold on Instagram @stutteringchef and find out more about Hermosa Cove, Christopher's Restaurant and Chef Conroy at www.hermosacove.com NEW JETSETTERS GLOSS MAGAZINE
Drinking In Chianti - A Visit To Castello Di Spaltenna Continued from page 75
With 37 distinctly different rooms and suites ranging from Classic to Deluxe and Superior, guests can choose from the more affordable rooms
scattered around the main castle in buildings that were once stables or work buildings, or choose a Junior Suite or Terrace Suite which have more sweeping views of the property and offer romantic extras such as a fireplace or outdoor patio with a Jacuzzi. All the accommodations have been beautifully furnished; antique armoires and oriental rugs add softness and colour, beamed ceilings and hardwood floors add warmth, and rich fabrics adorn the beds and windows. Personal Suggestions We are always careful with our recommendations of properties for our New Jetsetters audience, and will only review those which we feel would meet the higher standards and expectations of luxury travel lovers. Although this is not a 5 Star property with butlers or private pools, this resort offers luxury of a different kind - tranquility, authenticity and a fabulous location close to some of the most beautiful parts of Tuscany. I think I’ve shown how tranquil and authentic it is - now for why we think the location is so wonderful. We fell in love with Vertine, an enchantingly beautiful medieval village that escaped destruction over the centuries of violence that plagued Europe. You can drive there in about two minutes from Castello di Spaltenna, or walk there in about five minutes. Through the small arched entrance, past emerald masses of vines climbing ancient stone walls you will find a tiny community where time has stopped. The adorable “La Vineria di Vertine” where you can have an excellent light lunch on is right inside the entrance, with a pretty patio and small but interesting menu. Choose from a variety of Chianti wines and enjoy visits from curious village cats, a wonderful way to spend an afternoon. The charming Church of San Bartolomeo is also worth a visit,. The small town of Gaiole is at the bottom of Spaltenna’s driveway. Evenings find families strolling, arms linked with elderly grandmothers as they take in the quiet streets. A pretty pedestrianonly area contains shops and a number of charming restaurants and, of course, gelaterias. This is a fabulous way to integrate with the local community and see their traditional way of life. Boys kick soccer balls, little girls sing as they ride tricycles, elderly men sit outside shops, occasionally yelling a greeting or waving a cane as brief conversations float on the air.
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There are so many beautiful places within an easy drive from Castello di Spaltenna that it would take an entire book to go through them all. We would highly recommend driving up to Brolio Castle, ancestral home of the Ricasoli family. Driving up to the castle is like going through a National Park, thick with towering trees and bushes. We had a nice meal at Osteria del Castello, where you can dine on a wooden deck and listen to the wind blow through the pines, or sit inside the pretty restaurant. We also recommend booking a free tour of the Capannelle Winery, approximately a 10 minute drive from the hotel. Here you will be taken on an excellent (free) tour of the winery during which you will learn about the complexities of working with the Sangiovese grape and see each step in the life of a grape from the vine to the bottle. I have to say I gained so much respect for the amount of work that goes into making a bottle of wine that now, as I sip a glass of deep ruby Chianti I picture what this nectar has gone through and enjoy each and every drop. Final Thoughts The magic of Tuscany lies in having the freedom to drive the narrow, twisting roads, where branches of Scarlet Oaks and Sweet Chestnut trees form living tunnels, and hairpin turns reveal such glorious views of lush forests, marching vineyards and stone-walled fortresses that it is hard to keep your eyes on the road. To truly experience Tuscany you really must rent a car and explore; take your time and turn up that gravel, pot-holed road that seems never to end. It will end, and when it does you will find something ancient, something enchanting, something you will remember for the rest of your life. NEW JETSETTERS GLOSS MAGAZINE
On Day 1, as a member of the VIP Media, badge hung prominently around my neck, I flitted and floated about the lobby of the gorgeous Fairmont Mayakoba, watching with interest as guests unfolded themselves from executive cars and limousines, then paused for group selfies with the impressively costumed Mayan Chiefs at the entrance. Ecstatic greetings hung on the humid air as colleagues and friends converged in this one, tiny, gorgeous part of the world. Of note, I found it somewhat discombobulating that the Fairmont lobby never once looked like the same place twice over those four days. I would be terribly confused as I navigated from the Press Room to the Exhibition Floor to suddenly find a pop-up restaurant, a Food Truck station, a trendy martini lounge and even a Vegas-esque Cirque-du-Soleil style stage depending on the time of day or night, right where the lobby used to be. I eventually Bridge Of Sighs Cells learned to add extra time to my schedule so that I could figure out where the lobby was, as it was a continually morphing point of navigation. Perhaps by being somewhat of a “newbie” in the world of ILTM events I can reveal a somewhat fresh perspective on the sheer genius of this Luxury Travel Networking extravaganza. The International Luxury Travel Market, organized and operated with style by Reed Travel Exhibitions, is widely recognized among luxury travel experts as “the pinnacle of luxury travel markets” and it’s easy to see why. There are now six glorious events that bring the “crème de la crème” of luxury travel experts together in unparalleled settings all over the world. From Japan in February to Cape Town and Latin America in April, to Shanghai in June and Mayakoba Mexico in September, the sixth event ends the year with a flourish in Cannes, France – their Flagship market and jewel in the ILTM crown. This year has sealed ILTMs reputation for premium networking, with opportunities for buyers and sellers to really connect and bond during extravagant evening festivities that include acrobatic Cirque du Soleil style productions, yacht and catamaran parties, and high-tech sound and light theatricals over the sprawling Fairmont property pools. The opening event, held in the two-tiered Fairmont Lobby (at least I think it was the lobby!) saw sexy trapeze artists swinging from the ceiling as curiously beautiful men circulated
through the enthralled crowd on stilts, pouring champagne and offering delicate, ambrosial tidbits, both savoury and sweet. The following two days offered so many absolutely fascinating press talks to attend that my head has still not stopped spinning. Back to back press events were held like clockwork over two days – exhausting yes, but the ultimate reward – being among the first to learn about incredible new hotels that had either recently opened or were set to open in the near future. For example, how could one’s curiosity not be piqued by the thought of staying in an intimate, 12-room hotel called the “Hotel Splendide Royal” in Paris?
We also enjoyed a private in-villa gastronomic dinner for the media coordinated by award-winning Chef Juan Pablo Loza and the team at Rosewood Mayakoba. Served to the accompaniment of a fabulous Mariachi band and endless bubbly and tequila, the evening was designed to highlight their stunning new villa selections. International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM) is a portfolio of global, regional and specialist luxury travel events. Alongside the global flagship event in Cannes, ILTM NEW JETSETTERS GLOSS MAGAZINE
The Suite Life - Vancouver’s Loden Hotel Swan Lake
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Ambiance
Bar Longhi
How about new life being breathed into an iconic New York City building (with an interesting history of its own) after decades of being abandoned? “The Beekman” opened in August in the Big Apple’s City Hall district, the original site of “Temple Court”, built in 1883, home to 200 whitecollar businesses from accountants, lawyers, publishers and press agents. Charmingly, each of the nine floors features an original “floor drop” section, where the floor was able to swing open to allow for a safe to be pulled up by rope (before three elevators were installed in later years) The Beekman is fully expected to become “New York City’s Next Iconic Hotel”. I hope to make it there in 2017 to find out exactly what makes it so special! Also of interest is the new kid on the Miami Beach “block” – the 206 room Nobu Hotel, part of the legendary Eden Rock brand and the Oberoi Al Zorah in Dubai, which boasts 247 acres of forest for exploring the bio diversity of the region. All this being said – and I’ve said a LOT – I haven’t even touched on some of the wonderful evening festivities such as a night sailing aboard a catamaran with a non-stop flow of champagne and delicious hors d’ouvres and an astonishing surprise- a light show from the soon to open Andaz property.
With only 77 room and suites, this hotel has a nice, intimate atmosphere. The lobby is small, with an appealing residential feel. The warm, calming tones of chocolate, ivory and caramel and generous use of dark wood and striated marble make this a lobby you actually like to linger in. Cozy sofas invite you to sit, even if just for a moment, and the use of table-lamps and a candlelit fireplace add an appealing glow. A small alcove off the lobby houses a fabulous little self-serve coffee bar serving Nespresso and TWG Tea from 3:00 AM to 10:00 AM, they also offer “Electra-Townie” bikes (complimentary) so that you can explore more of the city and the seawall. They also offer something that many healthconscious New Jetsetters will love – as an extension to the “BeFit Gym” on the premises, The Loden can provide expert guides to accompany you on treks to explore the beautiful Lower Mainland area, or show you some of the most spectacular biking trails, all designed with fitness in mind and customized to your level of fitness. They call it “WanderFIT” and we think it’s a fabulous option for active guests. The Loden “prides itself in the personal touches, high-end amenities, and being a central, quiet place to escape and unwind”. We think they have good reason to be proud. Restaurants Regrettably, we did not have time to have a meal at Tableau Bar Bistro, Loden’s award-winning neighbourhood bar-bistro, which is accessed directly from the hotel lobby. New Jetsetters GLOSS
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Tableau offers traditional French Bistro classics such as French Onion Soup, Steak and Frites, and Moules Frites, but also have a few surprises on their menu such as Wild Boar, Elk Ragout and Squash and Leek Risotto. This is also a great place to sample some of British Columbia’s great local draft beer selections and award winning wines, as well as international selections. Of course, there are any number of amazing restaurants within comfortable walking distance, from some fabulous ocean-side places like Cardero’s (situated right out over the water in Coal Harbour) to an amazing modern Japanese Restaurant called Hapa Izakaya, or Coast Restaurant which offers the tastiest, freshest BC seafood. Don’t want to walk? No worries, you can hitch a complimentary ride in The Loden’s own “London Style Cab” to visit places further afar like the energetic Gastown area, or the funky warehouse-style neighbourhood of Yaletown. Accommodations We quite loved our Park Vista Room. It was bright, with a creamy base-tone that popped due to appealing citrus accents, and floor to ceiling windows that allows guests to appreciate the stunning view of Stanley Park, peek-a-boo glimpses of the North Shore Mountains, and the serene vista of Coal Harbour Marina. Our kingsize bed was superbly comfortable, with great fluffy pillows (important to me!). There was also a flat screen television that you could watch from bed (as usual, we did not even turn it on) an in-ceiling sound system and very importantly, high-speed Internet access. I appreciated the ample drawer and closet space, quality hangers, a cozy bathrobe and slippers.
My only disappointment was the “Molten Brown” toiletries – not my favourite brand. Little Extras The Loden offers a number of “little extras” which, although we did not take advantage of, are something many New Jetsetters will really appreciate. The first we’ve seen, The Loden offers some serious relief for allergy-sufferers. An “allergy-friendly floor” guarantees no feathers and no pet allergens will make their way into your suite, helping you breathe easier and sleep comfortably Beverly Hills Hotel Lobby For those who are committed to helping out the planet by being energy-efficient and aware, The Loden provides electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles with complimentary high powered Tesla connectors, a J1772 ChargePoint connector and NEMA 14-50 outlet within their gated, climate controlled parkade. Electric Vehicle drivers can monitor their preferred mobile app while connected with Loden’s complimentary WiFi. Valet parking benefits are offered for battery electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid vehicles while staying or dining at Loden. The Loden is pet-friendly; we always like it when a hotel brand acknowledges the importance of fur-babies. We see a stay with our rescued Norwegian Cat in the near future! Best of all, they actually cater to your furry children as they would any other guest, ensuring they have sweet dreams on their own plush, luxurious beds, food dishes, and for the canine guests, freshly baked biscuits. Mom and dad get a dog-walking map, the latest issue of Modern Dog Magazine, and a clean-up kit. As mentioned earlier in the article, The Loden provides complimentary downtown shuttles in their trippy London styled cab. We didn’t use it this time, but certainly will on a future stay. “Experience Assistants” are delighted to help you with your requirements when you arrive. Final Thoughts
The bathroom was gorgeous, finished with artisan Emperador marble. The tub was nice and deep for some quality soak-time, and there was a separate shower stall and plenty of soft, snuggly towels.
It is surprisingly hard to find a really good downtown hotel that can meet the needs of travellers looking not just for bright lights and entertainment, but also a place to chill-out, kick back and enjoy nature. From the moment we arrived and were greeted with a welcoming smile to the moment we reluctantly checked out we felt welcome, relaxed and happy to be there. We wished we could have had a few more days to fully enjoy the experience – hopefully we’ll be heading
there again for our next stay in downtown Vancouver. With a prime location and a dedication to excellent service, The Loden meets the needs of the sophisticated traveller with grace and style. Thank you Loden! Find the Loden at 1177 Melville Street Vancouver, British Columbia Canada V6E 0A3 Toll-free 1 877 225 6336 For reservations check out their website or contact reservations@theloden.com NEW JETSETTERS GLOSS MAGAZINE
Discovering Your Six Senses In The Pristine Kingdom Of Bhutan
are the best for families or groups as they sleep six comfortably with two to three bedrooms and larger pools (Nutmeg, Ginger and Pimento).
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Crafted from local stone, the bridge is enclosed with expansive timber-framed windows to enable guests to get close enough to easily observe their feathered friends. The fifth stop is Paro. It is the site of old stone ruins, the ambiance of which has been playfully brought to the interiors, with hewn stone walls and working fireplaces contrasting with mid-tone vertical timbers sourced from renewable supplies. Innovative “community-gathering spots” enable guests to share tales of the journey with fellow travellers in the warmth of an open fire. As big fans of Six Senses we can’t wait to share this experience with our fellow New Jetsetters. Add Six Senses Bhutan to your bucket list; it will open in early 2018. For more information on Six Senses Hotels Resorts – mail@sixsenses.com Park Ventures Ecoplex, 9th Floor, 57 Wireless Road, Lumpini, Patumwan, Bangkok 10330 Thailand
We were thrilled with Calabash House – a darling two-story Villa with everything we could want or need. We loved that each “house” is selfcontained and quite private – we had two exterior gates that we could lock for complete privacy in our yard when we just wanted to relax. The kitchen and living room were just perfect for the two of us, we loved the coffee maker and our fresh supply of Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee, and we had the fridge stocked with some of our favourite items (requested by email before we left home). In the fridge we had milk, butter, strawberry jam, orange juice, sparkling water and even some cookies and treats, and a fresh loaf of crusty bread. We could walk out directly through lovely French doors to our pool terrace – large and inviting with two loungers and even a small table and chairs if we wanted to have breakfast by the pool. At the side of the kitchen/living room was a door, leading directly to an adorable little outdoor dining nook, perfect for a romantic evening meal or breakfast/ brunch. A hammock was tucked into a shady spot near the pool as well.
NEW JETSETTERS GLOSS MAGAZINE
Underneath The Cottonwood Tree At Hermosa Cove Villa Hotel Continued from page 91
The Villas Hermosa Cove has three different types of lovely accommodations to appeal to all different types of guests. The smaller “Villas” include Coconut (suitable for disabled access and the only villa with no pool), Breadfruit and Mango, to the “Houses” which have King size beds and are perfect for couples (Calalloo, Scotch Bonnet and Calabash), and then to the larger units called “Halls” which
An exterior stairway off the kitchen led up to the beautiful bedroom with wraparound balcony; what a great way to look out over the property and catch sight of birds in the trees! Each night I would sit out at the small table with my favourite book and just listen to the sound of the waves at Christopher’s Beach and the hypnotic buzzing and chirping of the night creatures. Our private little pool would be sparkling and a swim before sleep is always wonderful to get you thoroughly relaxed. The bedroom was a very nice size, the bed extremely comfortable, and we had extra blankets and pillows, which I like. The bathroom was very large, with double sinks, cupboards and shelves for cosmetics and jewellery. New Jetsetters GLOSS 125
There were plenty of thick and thirsty towels for when you emerge from your huge rain shower. Locally sourced amenities were quite lovely, although not a brand name many would recognize (Natural Mystic) the product was quite good and smelled divine with a heavenly lemon grass base. We also had a large, walk-in closet so we each had our own section, along with a place to store our luggage, which we always appreciate so you are not stumbling around suitcases all the time. Christopher's Being such a small and intimate property, Hermosa Cove has only one restaurant, but it is an absolute gem. Of note, you can also choose to eat at the Broken Rudder Bar overlooking the white sandy beach near the pools. The main restaurant, “Christopher’s” is named after Christopher Columbus of course, and is beautifully situated overlooking the small, sandy cove bookended by two piers, each of which boasts a pretty, thatched palapa. If you are lucky, you can score one of the 10 or so tables on the L-shaped outdoor terrace that frames Christopher’s Beach, but plenty more tables can be found inside the cosy, dark wood interior, under gently rotating fans. An upstairs area is also open at times to accommodate more people, and the view from upstairs out over the beach, sky and ocean is so beautiful. Part of what makes Christopher’s so special is the Executive Chef, Conroy Arnold. With a shy smile and gentle nature, Chef Conroy is a constant presence in the kitchen and on the grounds, collecting herbs and spices from his personal on-site garden, and visiting with impressed patrons.
brought solid training and experience gained from earning a degree from State University of New York (SUNY) and from the Culinary Institute of America. He brought with him the undeniable skills earned from working at some of the best restaurants in the world, the most impressive being three years with New York’s famed three Michelin Star Restaurant – Nobu. While you will have to wait to read a more comprehensive review of Chef’s rising career in my forthcoming interview with him, you should know that he was named “Chef on the Beverly Hills HotelRise” Lobby at the 2014 Table Talk Awards, one of the Caribbean’s most anticipated food events, and most recently has won TripAdvisor’s coveted 2016 “Certificate of Excellence”. Let’s just say that we have not stopped longing for his simply amazing Chicken Spring Rolls (so addictive it’s not even funny) and he makes one of the best Butter Lobster tails I’ve ever had (and I’ve had many). I was very tempted to have the Curried Lobster which is also one of his specials, but I just loved the Butter Lobster too much and couldn’t bear not to have it. If you like to watch food being prepared, part of the kitchen is open and you can see Chef striding to and fro, lifting pot lids to stir, inhaling the essence of his creations, whisking in mysterious ingredients like a chemist at work on a special potion. Perhaps he should be called “Wizard”, because he certainly manages to make some magical dishes. Working in tandem with Mom Kid, with whom he has a special relationship, Chef Arnold is both a teacher and a student, as Mom Kid has a lifetime of traditional Jamaican cooking techniques and recipes to share with this always eager to learn Chef. Besides having such a rock solid Chef at the helm, Christopher’s Restaurant offers some of the most wonderful staff to make you feel welcome. I met Gracie-Anne on the very fist day we arrived and knew I would love her immediately. Each day when we would head down to indulge in our included breakfast, I would look forward to seeing Gracie-Anne and see her shy smile. Some people just touch your heart even if you don’t know them, and she and Chef Conroy are in that happy category for me.
Chef Arnold Conroy is, simply put, a gem, and Hermosa Cove owners Deb and Clayton Korver hit gold when they landed him for their intimate resort. Chef Conroy brought with him not only his exquisite and artistic skills in the kitchen, he also
So if the magical meals prepared by Chef Conroy and the heart-warming smiles from Gracie-Anne aren’t enough to make your meals at Hermosa Cove perfect, the killer view certainly will, as you watch the ebb and flow of turquoise waves.
The Broken Rudder Bar And Grill With a million-dollar view, and only steps from the stunning trifecta of cascading swimming pools, the Broken Rudder Bar and Grill is a truly sweet place to spend an afternoon. Beautifully decorated with Clayton’s gleaming wood carvings, the bar serves excellent cocktails and of course Red Stripe beer. You can also enjoy the full menu from Christopher’s if you’re feeling hungry and don’t want to have to go back to your room to dress more appropriately for the restaurant. A lower deck has a large table for group dining and there is also a BBQ for Hermosa Cove cook-out nights. The view, as mentioned, is gorgeous, overlooking the pretty little white sand beach, turquoise waters, and another pier with a palapa – perfect for relaxing after lunch. Swinging chairs in some of the pavilions are a fabulous way to kick back and really feel like you’re on a vacation! The Spa and Yoga Pavilion Regrettably, we did not indulge in a spa treatment or yoga at Hermosa Cove. At the top of the “tower” there is a beautiful rooftop spa area where you can book massages or watch the sun rise as you start the day with some yoga before heading down to Christopher’s for breakfast. Just let Wendy at the front desk know what treatment you’d like and when, and she will arrange it all for you. With the birds singing in the trees and a warm Jamaican breeze blowing in off the ocean, you know your aching muscles will feel brand new before the massage is even over. Final Thoughts Fat pelicans spiral down to scoop wriggling masses of tiny fish into their large beaks, and frigate birds spiral high above on thermal currents. The twin piers with their gazebos add a delightful touch, and you will no doubt want to go for a stroll to sit inside one of them at least a few times a day, definitely at sunset and then at night when the moon splashes a glow across the ocean. If you want something truly magical, ask Wendy in the front office, or catch Gracie-Anne when she isn’t hurrying to take an order, and ask to book a romantic dinner at one of the Palapa’s. It will be an evening you won’t soon forget. Especially if there is a full moon, a light breeze blowing the fresh, cool air onto your hot skin, and the sound of the waves lapping up to greet the sandy beach like a lost lover. For a small fee, the staff will even decorate a palapa for you, for a birthday or anniversary that you will never forget.
Ocho Rios is one of our favorite destinations. With one of the best microclimates on the island. There are not many places we long to return to, but Hermosa Cove is certainly one of them. It is in a great, central location for most of Jamaica’s top attractions, it has beautiful accommodations and it has a wonderful restaurant. The property is astounding, you can be as active or as laid-back as you like – and the swimming pools are warm enough to swim in (a big plus in my books). The white sand beaches, while small, are adorable and kept spotless. Best of all? You guessed it. The staff and the owners, Deb and Clayton, are some of the best people you will ever meet. When you find owners who love their staff, and vice-versa, you have one amazing hotel, and Hermosa Cove is exactly that. New Jetsetters GLOSS 127
“Underneath It All” Exploring Geejam Port Antonio Continued from page 111
Floyd, Deidre and Lloyd made sure our suitcases were in our room right away and offered to help with the unpacking. Orientation of the various switches for fans, air-conditioning and lights were explained, as was the remote control for the TV (we have yet to watch or even turn a TV on while we are on vacation!). Hans, a “multimedia guru” appeared to make sure we knew how to use the various technology at the Villa and to make sure it was all functioning properly. At 4,000 square feet, there was a lot of real estate, but the other bedrooms with their own bathrooms take up a lot of the square footage. We really just wanted and needed to see the main gallery/living area and the kitchen – this is where we would be hanging out most of the time! The Geejam Collection is comprised of the Geejam Hotel and three private villas, Sanwood, Cocosan and Panorama. We sipped on some cold Red Stripe Beer as Deidre showed us how to use the Espresso Machine and showed us the fully stocked fridge and the snacks in the large bowl on the kitchen counter. It was really nice to have everything you needed right there, already waiting for you when you arrived. A few bottles of red and white wine, some milk, bread, soda’s, some crackers, nuts, cookies and chips were amongst the goodies that were available to us, as was a great selection of Nespresso coffee and tea – all included in the rental price of the villa. We loved that the living room, referred to as the “Media Lounge” and the outdoor “Gallery” was an expansive, breezy place to chill out. Wall-to-wall sliding doors in the living area meant you could pretty much be right on the pool deck while enjoying the comfortable sectional sofas. It was truly an indoor-outdoor sort of room and it was a pleasure to listen to the state-of-the-art stereo or watch the immense flat-screen TV with your shimmering, private pool beckoning. Outdoor loungers always had fresh towels on them, and the patio set was perfect for al fresco breakfasts in the fresh mountain air accompanied by the relaxing chirps of various birds. We also enjoyed lunch here when we didn’t feel like dressing to go down to Bushbar. With ½ acre of beautiful vegetation surrounding you, this is a place that will make you feel reborn.
Noteworthy Dining Bushbar is located about a five minute drive down the meandering road, and though we never had an issue with getting a table, it is very small and in busy season is very popular, so I would recommend requesting reservations be made, depending on the time of year you visit. The infamous Bush Bar has seen all kinds of celebrities at its tables over the years – with Geejam being home to a state-of-the-art Recording Studio, music industry megastars flock here to work, play and relax all at the same time. The Bush Bar is cozy, yet airy and fresh – it’s sort of like being in a plush tree-house with all sorts of wonderful alcohol and food at your fingertips. Choose your own little spot and claim it as yours during your stay. You will soon come to love the daily routine of making your way to BushBar where you will be warmly greeted with honest smiles and escorted to your intimate table. Settling in, you will cast your eyes far over the horizon where the sun can be seen reflecting off the Caribbean Sea. Trident Castle, far below to shimmer like a Bridge Of Sighsseems Cells mirage in the distance. On either side, a pair of three-hundred year-old Fig Trees squat in massive splendour, gorgeous specimens that have trunks large enough to park a car in Moss hangs from outstretched limbs and epiphytes clinging to every nook and cranny. I would not have been surprised to see or hear a yodeling Tarzan come swinging by, one hand outstretched to grab a drink.
The menu is not large, but has something for just about everyone. Also, you can ask the Chef Akim to make you something special if you don’t see a particular item that you want. I fell in love with the lobster I had on the first night, and when it wasn’t listed on the menu a subsequent night I said I was
sad not to be able to have it again. Well guess what? Chef Akim came by and said I could have it ANYWAYS…. No problem at all. How absolutely divine. And, guess what? I had it again the next night. Another favourite of mine was the steak with Festival (the Jamaican version of addictive semisweet fried dough). All the food we had was excellent. Bar service was also top-notch with some great cocktails made by Jessie-Ann, sporting a gorgeous smile, and cold, dry martini’s – James Bond style, of course!
Swan Lake
Bar Longhi
Special dishes include a spicy lobster pasta, grilled mahi-mahi and of course, the grilled lobster that I became addicted to. Breakfast al fresco is a fabulous way to start your day in paradise, with freshly baked bread, flaky croissants and fruit and vegetables just picked from the Geejam gardens. Of course the Jamaican staples of Ackee and Salt Cod, plantains and steamed dumplings are there for when you really want a taste of Jamaica. If you’re lucky and you’re there on a Friday night, you’ll not want to miss the legendary “Jolly Boys” – a mainstay of the Jamaican music scene since the 1960’s and an island favorite. Although they are definitely not “boys” any more, they still perform some of the best roots-reggae songs and you will not want to miss a performance by them. Other nights there may be an accomplished DJ laying tracks, with the ambient sound system taking the sexy-lounge factor to the next level. Sit in the lounge and relax on their comfy cushions, or step down a level for a game of pool under the mossy limbs of the Fig Tree. Amazing Activities There are almost too many things to see and do in this part of Jamaica. One of our favourite activities has always been picnicking at stunning Frenchman’s Cove, just a five-minute drive from
GeeJam (and some people apparently walk to it). A stunning swathe of white sand and turquoise waters, it is the perfect place to have a picnic and just relax. You should also visit Boston Bay to experience the original home of the Jerk method of cooking. Pay a visit to one of the Jerk Shacks located in Boston Bay for a true taste of this true Jamaican favourite. Spend an afternoon at Geejam’s Private Beach. Ask the hotel to pack you a picnic lunch, add some Red Stripe beer to your knapsack and walk down (and down and down) to Geejam’s private beach, just across the road from the property via a dedicated staircase. It has a number of pretty palapa’s and lots of very private nooks and crannies to claim for your own. At certain times they have a bartender present if there are sufficient guests to warrant it. Spend the afternoon listening to the waves and going for gloriously warm dips in the ocean, there are also a few kayaks available if you would like to go for a paddle in paradise. Perfect! There are numerous waterfall sites in the area, “Scatter”, “Reich” and “Somerset”, or you can also head out for the day to do some Rafting on the Rio Grande River (highly recommended (Read about rafting the Rio Grand in “Perspectives” on newjetsetters.com). Hire a driver for a day to take you up into the Blue Mountains to buy some Blue Mountain Coffee from one of the local villages. Photographer? Bring your camera – the scenery is so gorgeous it will take your breath away. Final Thoughts We’ve always felt it a shame that all-inclusive’s have become the normal way for tourists to experience Jamaica. Inside these gated communities, visitors receive neat, tidy doses of Jamaican culture. Indeed many guests do not even leave the compounds to interact with the locals and experience the true “irie”of the locals. I couldn’t recommend Geejam, Port Antonio more highly. See the real Jamaica in all its glory. Eat at an authentic Jerk Pit. Experience the real rootsreggae and jump into the waves of a turquoise ocean alongside the locals and their children. We have no doubt it will be an endearing and unforgettable experience for you. New Jetsetters GLOSS
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Lupaia, A Country Estate In The Heart Of Tuscany Continued from page 105
When you’re ready, make your way to the groaning buffet table. Would you like scrambled eggs this morning? The omelets are delicious - perhaps with bacon or ham? Just let Andrea or one of the smiling ladies know as you choose from freshly baked country bread, baguettes, flaky croissants, banana breads and lemon loafs, cold-cuts, muffins, pies, local cheeses and copious assortment of home-made jams and jellies. Poolside Perfection Later, set out down the gravel pathway, past the breakfast terrace, and find yourself overlooking the beautiful pool area. An uncompromisingly gorgeous view looks out over rolling hillsides towards the town of Montefollonico, yet another medieval hilltop town. A few steps down and through a gate you will find the pool; large rocks have been incorporated into the pool itself, making it feel like you are swimming in a natural lake or quarry. An enormous park-like area surrounds the pool, plenty of loungers are available, and we loved that we could relocate under a tree or shaded gazebo to seek either privacy or shade. Hammocks are an extra-nice touch. A telephone is located at the entrance and connects directly to the kitchen should you feel the need for a bottle of wine and/or a delicious snack while sunbathing. Joel, the pool attendant, will be by every now and then to refresh towels or tidy the area. His big smile and friendly hello makes you feel warmly welcomed.
If you feel like stretching your legs a little, Lupaia has a lot of fantastic viewpoints on their property. There are numerous spots to just stop and stare at the views and absorb the beauty of your surroundings. An emerald landscape morphs from rolling hills to orderly vineyards to the occasional silver burst of olive trees and marching rows of elegant Italian Cypress trees. The Cypress trees usually line the gravel roads that lead to other rambling brick farmhouse estates. The icing on this rich, visual cake Beverly Hills Hotel Lobby is the medieval hilltop town of Montepulciano meandering along the promontory, the spires, towers and domes of the ancient “chiesa” presenting dark silhouettes against a pure blue sky. It is especially stunning at sunset as the lowering sun sets the ancient bricks afire with tones of cinnamon, and copper. By now you will be ready for a refreshing shower or bath before having a pre-dinner drink on your terrace, perhaps in the company of Pino, if you are “cat people”. Earlier in the day, usually around breakfast time, Marco or one of the other staff will inquire as to whether you will be staying for dinner at Lupaia. The reason is that they try to prepare only enough for a certain amount of people, and the menu changes every day according to what is fresh and available to Chef. We would highly recommend eating at Lupaia. The food is fabulous, service is excellent and the setting is hard to beat, especially if you ask to be seated in the private BBQ alcove at the far side of the dining terrace. This is an excellent spot to have a very romantic dinner, shielded from other guests and with a stunning view of the valley and Montefollonico on the horizon. Soon you will be yawning and feel so relaxed and at peace that you can hardly keep your eyes open, just enough time to have a nightcap either in the pretty little outdoor lounge near reception or on your terrace. Then sleep beckons and you simply collapse on your comfortable bed, with only a small window of time to stare at the moon rising over the ancient village on the horizon. A Romantic Picnic Experience
The next day we chose Pienza, home of “Pecorino�, the most delicious cheese you will ever taste. This town has a small-town feel, with enough charming restaurants, tiny lounges and coffee shops to keep you enthralled for at least a week! Next on our list was Montichiello, similar in feel to Pienza and charming in its own right. We also spent one day exploring Montalcino, taking part in a personal vineyard tour and tasting with one of the best Wineries in Tuscany, home of the Castiglion del Bosco in Montalcino. We decided to enjoy the Picnic Lunch experience offered by Lupaia (at extra charge). I have to admit I am very fond of picnics! We chose to have it on the grass overlooking the pool, under the delicate fronds of a weeping willow tree, and chose to have it for dinner! Chefs kitchen did Lupaia proud while packing the picnic hamper: Fresh sweet strawberries, justplucked cherries, a number of hard and soft cheeses, prosciutto and a selection of sandwiches, warm chicken wraps, sweet melon, fruit salad, and of course, a bottle of Champagne on ice made it all perfect. We had the entire pool area to ourselves, and had requested the picnic to be timed with the setting of the sun over Montifollonico, which was absolutely mesmerizing. Nothing but the sound of the soft wind sighing through the weeping fig tree-fronds, the peeping of tiny birds, and of course, the tiny pinging sound of the Champagne bubbles. It was an unforgettable evening. Location and What to Do Lupaia is perfectly located for exploring some of the most amazing sights and the best vineyards in Tuscany. We set our sights on exploring one medieval village per day, with the idea that if we found a perfect little restaurant with the right ambiance, we could then return for dinner. It was the perfect plan because during the day we could assess how difficult or easy the drive was, where to locate the best parking, and how to walk to our destination with ease. First we explored Montepulciano, enjoying the ambiance, shopping and energy of this lovely hilltop town.
Each village was within easy driving distance from Lupaia, making for an enjoyable day trip with enough time to go back and freshen up before heading out again for dinner if desired. Our agenda for exploring the Tuscan countryside and villages was easily accomplished at a relaxed pace. I have to think that even the most hardboiled pragmatist would have to agree that there is something magical about Lupaia. From the moment Bruno meets you in the parking lot, speaking Italian at a million miles a minute and making grand sweeping gestures with his hands, smiling with his eyes, you will feel the charm. You will feel it again when Francesca greets you in reception and escorts you to your beautiful suite, and you feel like you have come home. You will feel this in the morning, when Marco remembers that you like a Cappuccino before you even think of looking at food, and again later when Heidi and Christopher stop by to say hello and see how you are doing. You will feel it when Joel knows which lounger you prefer, and rushes to set up the umbrella at the best angle for you, and later in the day, when you sit on your terrace and listen to Bruno talk to the cherry tree as he picks the delicate fruit that will be in the desert on the terrace later that evening, glancing up at you with a merry smile and a friendly wave. You will feel it the most when the time comes that you must leave, when Heidi and Christopher and whatever staff may be around gather to say goodbye, and you sadly New Jetsetters GLOSS 131
Beverly Hills Hotel Lobby
get into your car and watch your beautiful home-away-from-home recede in your rearview mirror, promising yourself and each other that you will find a way to come back one day. It’s not easy, but it does mean that you have had an experience that every traveler out there would be thrilled to have. You’ve had moments of wonder and moments of sublime happiness. You’ve explored and learned and loved, and met new friends along the way. You’ve had amazing experiences that enrich your heart and soul for the rest of your life. Lupaia is the embodiment of what every traveler wants from a destination, and we are so happy we were able to experience it for ourselves. Who knows whether or not we might be able to return, but until then, I shall continue to dream of the full moon rising over Montepulciano. Lupaia is situated on the hills of Val d’Orcia, from where it is possible to enjoy of a wonderful panoramic view of Montepulciano and the surrounding countryside. The arrival is an experience in itself. It leads you through a 2.5 km unpaved road along olive groves and vineyards. More information on Lupaia can be found at www.lupaia.com If you go to Italy, you owe it to yourself to have a Lupaia experience. NEW JETSETTERS GLOSS MAGAZINE
Castiglion del Bosco -Località Castiglion del Bosco- Phone: +39 0577 1913750- Email: wine@castigliondelbosco.com
ROSSO -DI MONTALCINO * BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO * CAMPO DEL DRAGO * MILLECENTO * ZODIAC – LIMITED EDITION
The fifth biggest producer of Brunello di Montalcino, the historic winery at Castiglion del Bosco was a founding member of the Consorzio del Vino Brunello di Montalcino.