Michelle-Marie Heinemann Scaglia and Silvio Scaglia
QUATTROPASSI AL PESCATORE is an authentic expression of the Mediterranean Sea against the background of the powerful Sardinian landscape.
Quattro Passi al Pescatore
The only restaurant pieds dans l’eau on the Costa Smeralda, the restaurant offers sophisticated service and elegant design elements with unique fabrics and materials. For the first time, the menu was designed in collaboration with two Michelin Star Quattropassi restaurants and is inspired by Mediterranean cuisine, highlighting fresh and local ingredients.
Quattro Passi al Pescatore
Sensational Seafood at the Waterfront
A Porto Cervo institution for seafood lovers, Quattro Passi Al Pescatore offers a menu of inspired Sardinian cuisine in a stunning waterfront venue at the heart of the Vecchio Molo.
Quattro Passi al Pescatore
Quattro Passi Al Pescatore, attached to the Cervo Hotel, was the first restaurant to be built on the Costa Smeralda, back in the 1960s, and today offers one of the most exciting local seafood menus in an exclusive waterside location.
Quattro Passi al Pescatore
Formerly known as Il Pescatore, the restaurant has recently been completely renovated and redesigned, with a contemporary rustic look and a new menu created by two Michelin-Star chef Antonio Mellino. With views over the turquoise harbour and yachts bobbing in the sea beyond.
Michelle-Marie Heinemann Scaglia and Silvio Scaglia
Conveniently located just a short tender ride from the marina, Quattro Passi Al Pescatore is an ideal choice.
Address: Costa Smeralda, 07020 Porto Cervo, Italy Phone: +39 0789 931624
As the name suggests, AcroYoga is a fun fusion of yoga and acrobatics. Although some records indicate that AcroYoga was being practiced as far back as 1938, it has only truly started to gain traction at the turn of the millennium.
Michelle-Marie Heinemann Scaglia and Silvio Scaglia
There are six benefits of AcroYoga:
#1: Improves balance
One of the fundamental elements of the AcroYoga practice is balance. Whether you are practicing poses that involve flying, or simply relying on each other to create a beautiful shape together, both require balance.
Michelle-Marie Heinemann Scaglia and Silvio Scaglia
#2: Strengthens core
Whether you are the base holding another person up in the air, or the flyer trying to balance yourself while performing an intricate pose, both would not be possible without core stability. The beauty of AcroYoga is that it engages and strengthens the entire core and back in a functional way, as opposed to only building vanity muscles.
Michelle-Marie Heinemann Scaglia and Silvio Scaglia
#3: Increases flexibility
Many AcroYoga poses require active and passive flexibility. In flyers, the target is often hip mobility or backbends, whereas the base can work on their hip flexors and shoulders.
#4: Stability and coordination
Even regular yoga can be disorienting, especially if it involves being upside down. In addition to manipulating your body into the right position, those who practice AcroYoga have to rely on another person (or people) for balance and support. Although it presents a great challenge, it also results in better spatial awareness, stability, and physical coordination.
Michelle-Marie Heinemann Scaglia and Silvio Scaglia
#5: Improves communication skills
It is extremely important to have a clear line of communication with your AcroYoga partner, as well as the spotter if you have one. Communication is what allows you to practice safely and efficiently. The more you practice, the more you will learn to clearly communicate your needs and boundaries, a skill that can be extremely useful on and off the yoga mat.
#6: Builds trust
Every person involved in AcroYoga practice has to work closely with others. In order for the practice to be fruitful and enjoyable, it is important to establish trust between all participants, including the spotter. It’s incredibly fun!!
Michelle-Marie Heinemann Scaglia and Silvio Scaglia
When a new designer somehow manages to change the aesthetic scene of an entire event, it’s a pretty safe bet they’re the next big thing. Such was the case with this year’s Whitney Art Party, with Alexandra O’Neill giving the crowd a much needed ‘Kira Kira’ shine, dressing everyone from Hilary Rhoda to Ashley Graham in her line Markarian’s latest collection of dream, prêt-à-party dresses.Fresh off a November launch on The Platform, Moda Operandi’s new incubator for emerging designers, Markarian’s is a “feminine and ethereal” look – one pretty piece after another that will have you making an occasion out of just about anything. As one who clearly practices what she preaches, Alexandra’s Greenwich Village home is just as well styled as the designer herself. We caught up with Ali at her divinely decorated downtown abode to get the skinny on everything from her must-shop stores to that one piece every woman should have in her closet.
How did you find yourself in the design world?
My grandmother, GiGi, lived with my family growing up and taught me how to sew at a very young age. I fell in love with making clothing when I was 10 and always knew this is what I wanted to do. GiGi still helps me with tricky patterns and structure now.
What’s your favorite occasion to dress for?
I will take any excuse to dress up a little and love getting dressed for the holidays. My grandparents throw a party at their home on Christmas Eve every year that our whole family gets decked out for. My Great Aunt Beth has worn this incredible gold velvet floor length skirt for the past 30 years that is beautiful. The party is so festive and puts you into such wonderful holiday spirits.
What’s your everyday go-to look?
Light washed Levi’s, a t-shirt, and a vintage jacket.
What are some of your most loved labels or stores?
I am a vintage hound. My favorite vintage store in the city is Edith Machinist in the LES. I also find such incredible treasures at the Manhattan Vintage show every time it happens. Other stores I love are Antony Todd home, the Apartment by the Line, and the well curated collections and events at the Moda Operandi Madison store.
What’s the one piece every woman should have in her closet?
A knock out dress that she always feels beautiful in no matter where she’s going or what she is doing.
Would your ideal night be going out or staying in?
I love having people over to my apartment for dinner parties or movie night, everyone feels at home there. I do also love to go out dancing every now and then though…
What was your favorite part of designing your apartment?
I loved scrolling through all of the listings on 1st dibs.
Summer has finally sprung upon us. Though you may prefer to escape the hustle and bustle in favor of the crisp air near the Aegean Sea, spending summer in the city is truly magical, especially since you can, literally, find a taste of Mediterranean serenity without having to island hop. If you can’t afford an exotic adventure to Greece or Coastal Italy, you can, at least, take your taste buds on vacation.
Cafe Medi
Serving up dishes inspired by the traditional coastal fare of Spain, Italy, and France, Cafe Medi is not only a go-to for delicious and unique Mediterranean, but also for an amazing ‘gram. The beautiful space boasts an airy atmosphere, complete with high ceilings and stunning murals on the walls. Come summer, there’s also outdoor terrace seating – perfect for pretending you’re catching a seaside breeze.
Located on the Upper East Side, Yefsi highlights charm and sophistication in their authentic meals, focusing on appetizer meze dishes. Enjoy a plate of grilled octopus with a chilled Retsina white wine in this dimly lit restaurant. Date night, anyone?
Craving seafood? This upscale eatery on Madison Avenue emanates a “villa vibe” with extended outdoor seating available, displaying fresh whole fish from the Aegean upon entrance.
The Greek Tribeca offers a cozy escape, where creative dishes and natural vines and greenery capture the spotlight, as if you were sitting in an outdoor taverna in Mykonos on a hot summer night.
Named after the volcanic island featuring pristine clear-blue water, Milos is an NYC favorite. Its sleek interior truly brings out the contrasting colors native to Greece and sharpens the focus on the incredible seafood.
Just a quick drive down the West Side Highway transports you to the beauty of Greece as you stumble upon Ousia, a recently opened restaurant on 57th and 11th. Conveniently located next to the Landmark movie theater, enjoy a bite of their hummus and pita, maybe some cocktails and a spanakopita, after a show.
Walking down the grey and white cobblestones, you will immediately feel as if you’ve stepped foot into a local taverna in Santorini, greeted with white walls and blue straw chairs. If you’re looking for something more laid-back but as equally delicious as an upscale restaurant, journey to Souvlaki GR for their famous bifteki sandwich or a few souvlaki skewers. Sit back, relax, and breathe in the fresh air of Greece while situated in the middle of the Lower East Side.
Tired of Greek food? Hop on over to the Amalfi coast for this Italian-Mediterranean fusion restaurant situated just beneath The High Line. The glassed-in, jewel box of a space creates the perfect atmosphere to munch on some seafood and pasta after a day of roaming around Chelsea.
A small, intimate setting with colorful plates for curious palates awaits New Yorkers on Macdougal street. Shuka offers Mediterranean fare, creative cocktails, and a trendy clientele. Enjoy shawarma, shakshuka, and other small plates as you wine and dine while seeing and being seen.
Whether you’re looking for adventure on the steppes or a hammock steps from the ocean, here are the best trips to take this summer.
June 21 marks the first day of summer in the Northern Hemisphere, and vacation season is in full swing—with plenty of destinations to choose from, no matter your style or speed. To make decision time go as smooth as that beach side sangria, take a look at our list of 2018’s best summer trips.
BORNEO
If you love pygmy elephants, glow-in-the-dark mushrooms, floating markets, secret gardens hidden in caves, and the rehabilitation of endangered orangutans—then Borneo is the summer trip for you. After a day of spelunking in Borneo’s Gunung Mulu National Park, visitors can stick around to observe the “Bat Exodus,” as over three million bats swoop into the fading sky from Deer Cave, the largest cave chamber on the planet. Borneo is also the place to spot Irrawaddy dolphins, proboscis monkeys, soft-shelled turtles, clouded leopards, the world’s longest insect, and 15,000 species of plants—including carnivorous pitcher plants; the famous corpse flower; and monster flowers, the largest known blossoms on the planet.
Cloud forest covers the mountains in Malaysia, on Borneo. Several countries—Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei—make up the island’s territory.
ICELAND
Iceland is so much more than a quirky layover or winter Northern Lightssite. From May through June the midnight sun provides plenty of daylight hours for soaking in thermal pools, hiking on glaciers in Skaftafell National Park, and sidestepping tide-washed icebergs on black-sand Diamond Beach. In Iceland, mosquitoes don’t exist; the temperature hasn’t gone above 87°F since 1939; and the tap water, filtered underground through ancient lava fields, is some of the purest drinking water in the world. Spend the afternoon beside bubbling mudpots, the black basalt falls of Svartifoss,the magic mossy cascades of Skógafoss … and you’ll see exactly why most Icelanders still believe in elves.
Skógafoss is one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls.
ILHA GRANDE
Brazil’s Ilha Grande may only be a 15-minute boat ride from Jacareí (or a roughly hour-long ferry from Rio), but its 106 quiet beaches, musical rainforests, and car-free streets feel a world away. Most of the island is protected within Ilha Grande State Park, meaning the jungle hikes to Parnaioca and Lopes Mendes Beach offer sightings of many endangered tropical species, including maned sloths, brown howler monkeys, and the red-browed amazon parrot. Stay in a breezy pousada, drink passionfruit caipirinhas lagoon-side, or visit one of the island’s over 30 restaurants for a bowl of traditional shrimp moqueca—a bright stew of fresh seafood steeped in coconut milk and palm oil.
PHOTOGRAPH BY LUCIA TERUI, YOUR SHOT
SOUTHERN INDONESIA
Strung between the islands of Sumatra and Timor-Leste, the Indonesian islands of Bali, Java, and Nusa Tenggara are ripe with coffee farms, Buddhist temple ruins, Komodo dragons, and coral reefs. Sway to the sounds of a bamboo instrument orchestra, learn the art forms of rattan weaving and batik in Java, or bike through lime-green rice terraces in Bali. Visit color changing lakes in the mountains of Nusa Tenggara. And when you need to catch your breath, head to the Bogor Botanical Garden, a world-renowned center for tropical botany with 13,983 different kinds of trees and plants, including 500 species of orchid.
Clouds skirt Mount Bromo, an active volcano in Java, Indonesia.
LEBANON
The Spaniards argue that crème brûlée is just a French version of crema catalana. Welsh historians claim Arthur Guinness smuggled his famous stout recipe from a Welsh tavern to Dublin. And Lebanon … Lebanon wants their hummus back. Often overlooked as a culinary destination, Lebanon crafts the ideal summer mezze table in an equally ideal temperate climate. Stroll open air markets in Byblos, one of the world’s oldest cities. Cool off at the Baatara Gorge Waterfall. Then settle in beneath the cedars for a feast of local wine, tabbouleh, tiny rounds of hot sesame pita, baba ghanoush sprinkled with pomegranate seeds, and plates of herb-y cheese, all drizzled in bright swoops of local olive oil.
Lebanon is an overlooked culinary destination.
MASAI MARA
There are few African safari lands that get as up-close-and-personal as Masai Mara, an expansive and fenceless preserved savannah that stretches between Kenya and Tanzania. The region is home to a dream team of wildlife including lions, cheetahs, zebras, elephants, giraffes, gazelles, rhinos, leopards, and baboons. July through September is the best time to visit, when two million wildebeest bravely storm across crocodile-clogged rivers and grassy plains on their annual migration to the Serengeti. Witness the tension by safari car or on horseback, sail over hippos in a hot air balloon, visit a local Maasai community, then snorkel off that savannah sand in the coral reefs off of Kenya’s peaceful Diani Beach.
Late summer to early fall is the best time to see Masai Mara’s famous wildebeest migration.
MONGOLIA
Medical anthropologist and National Geographic explorer, Carroll Dunham, and her family have spent sixteen blue-sky summers living among nomadic tribes in Mongolia—one of the least population-dense, and most hospitable, countries in the world. And while Dunham loves camping in a traditional ger, watching archery displays at local Naadam festivals, and horseback riding through wild poppies—she says the main reason her family returns is for the people. “No one can sing from the depths of their being and bellies like the Mongols,” she writes. Landlocked Mongolia is known for its 1,000-foot-high singing dunes, crystal clear rivers, cool summer nights, ancient dinosaur fossils, bad cell service, exquisite cashmere, Buddhist lamas, and golden mountains. One spirited horseback ride through these green steppes and we’re sure you’ll be throat singing too.
Wild horses graze on a Mongolian plateau. National Geographic offers an expedition that allows visitors to explore the country on horseback with local experts.
PAPUA NEW GUINEA
May marks the end of the rainy season in Papua New Guinea, making summer the best, and least slippery, season for hiking the Kokoda Track—a historic 60-mile mountain trek along waterfalls, rope bridges, and vibrant villages. Further north, in Mount Hagen, more than 70 tribal groups gather every August for the Sing-Sing Festival, a joyful celebration of ancestral song and dance with lizard-skin drums, swishing grass skirts, conch-shell necklaces and stunning feather headdresses. A dream destination for snorkeling, diving, and birding, PNG claims over 600 islands, 800 native languages, and almost all 43 unbelievably colorful species of birds-of-paradise, including the stunning, neon-blue-feathered Vogelkop, just identified this year by ornithologist Edwin Scholes and National Geographic photographer Tim Laman.
Papua New Guinea is famous for its biodiversity, both on land and at sea.
PERU
Peru enjoys its dry season from May through October, meaning clear skies and sun are likely for Inti Raymi, one of the biggest festivals in South America. Every year, the climax of the festival falls on June 24: Hundreds of dancers in handwoven ponchos descend on Cusco to sing, burn fires, and call upon the Sun God in a stunning day-long ritual that has been performed since the early Incan empire. If crowds in the thousands-plus unnerve you, an August trip to similar, smaller festivals in Wiracochapamp and Huamachuco promise firework displays, fewer tourists, and equally colorful turco and campesino performances.
Peru’s traditional Inti Raymi festival climaxes on June 24.
YOSEMITE
This year California’s Yosemite National Park will complete a four-year-long ecological restoration of the Mariposa Grove. On June 15, the magnificent stand of over 500 giant sequoias will reopen with restored hydrology, accessible shuttles and trails, and better-protected habitats for both the trees and their resident weasel-like Pacific fishers. Yosemite’s towering Sequoiadendron giganteumcan survive for thousands of years—thanks in part to their virtually fireproof bark and naturally insect-resistant tannins. The largest trees by volume on Earth, some sequoias measure up to 154 feet in diameter. After a day of tree-gawking, opt for a May Lake picnic at the base of Mount Hoffmann, or take a hike along Yosemite’s 11.5-mile Valley Loop Trail for gigantic views of El Capitan, Yosemite Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Cathedral Rocks. Yosemite is the perfect summer place to get outside and feel oh-so-gloriously small in the most delightful way.
Iconic views—like this vista of Bridal Veil Falls—make Yosemite one of America’s most beloved national parks.
For those who call the concrete jungle home, transporting themselves from Manhattan to Montauk every weekend is enough of a struggle. For most, the commotion to get to the ocean consists of the following: sitting on the Long Island Expressway in bumper-to-bumper traffic, catching the last Hampton Jitney or earliest LIRR, and last but not least, micro-managing the splitting of an Uber bill amongst friends (oh, and the not-so-casual barrage of texts to those past-due on their amount owed).
Now picture the endless Goyard duffle bags slipping off your arm, overflowing with practically an entire summer’s worth of clothing for one weekend. We’re all guilty of committing this clearly unnecessary crime, and end up using around 15% of the total baggage we lug like weightlifters to and from the Hamptons.
But now you can cast your worries (and baggage) aside, because there’s a new service in town. Local entrepreneur, Danielle Candela, has created the solution to solve every weekender’s first class, first world problems. Her company, Tote Taxi, will transport your bags, golf clubs, bicycle, designer duffles, and more all across the island. Plus, the service has teamed up with BLADE to offer door-to-door pickup, and eliminate the issue of weight restrictions on your flight.
With plans to expand, Tote Taxi currently offers service from Manhattan on Thursday, Friday, or Saturday, and from Montauk to New York on Sunday and Monday.
Book a bag and check out the service HERE. Believe us, it’s tote-ally perfect.
It’s long been known that the mind and body are closely connected. For example, if you’re feeling stressed, then getting out for a good walk should help to relax you. It’s even better if you combine a walk with a catch up with a friend or family member. You’ll be getting physical exercise, boosting your emotional well-being and reconnecting with others at the same time. Yet if you live in a big city such as London, it can be hard to find suitable places where you can escape the crowds. That’s why we’re sharing our favorite quiet places in London to rest and relax, to inspire you to go outdoors more.
Quiet Places in London Centre
Hyde Park
As it’s the largest of the London Royal Parks, you’ll easily find a quiet place within Hyde Park’s 42 hectares. This Grade I listed park has many peaceful areas as well as famous landmarks such as the Princess Diana Memorial Fountain, Speakers Corner and the Serpentine Gallery. The Serenity statue is located on the south side of the Serpentine and is one of many beautiful sculptures in the park. For senior citizens, there’s an outdoor playground situated within the Bowls and Tennis Centre, open from 9 am to 9 pm, April to September and 10 am to 4 pm, October to March. The Rose Garden is one of the most beautiful places in London, especially at the beginning of Summer when the roses are blooming. You can find it at the South East corner of Hyde Park, near Hyde Park Corner. There’s a lovely pergola, as well as two fountains – the Boy and Dolphin and the statue of Diana the Huntress. Another tranquil spot is the Round Pond, a seven acre lake near Kensington Palace.
St James’s Park
Of all the relaxing places in London, St James’s Park is particularly well known thanks to its central location near Buckingham Palace. Spread over 23 hectares, it’s home to many birds including pelicans. The first pelicans were presented as a gift from the Russian Ambassador in 1664 and today there are over 40 of them. Watch them being fed fish next to Duck Island Cottage every day between 2.30 and 3 pm. If you’re lucky, you might also spot some green parakeets in the park. There’s a charming cafe in the park with lovely lake views.
North London
Regent’s Canal Walk
There are many great things to do in Kings Cross, with Camley Street Natural Park being a real revelation. You’d never guess you were a few minutes away from a busy railway station. This former coal drop for the railways is now a tranquil inner city oasis where you can spot bats, frogs, kingfishers and many more species. The park is temporarily closed while a new visitor centre is constructed. Nearby you have one of the best canal walks in London. The Regent’s Canal Walk stretches for 9 miles, from Limehouse to Paddington. The towpath was completed in 1820 and the section between Camden Lock and Kings Cross is particularly pleasant. Kings Cross itself has changed a lot in recent years and it’s now a popular dining and shopping destination.
The Secret Garden
For a panoramic view of London, go for a walk up Primrose Hill, which stands 213 feet high. From here, walk down the hill to Regent’s Park and the secret garden…Whilst Regent’s Park is a beautiful place in its own right, few visitors realize that there’s a secret London garden located just off the Inner Circle. It is one of the best hidden gems of London and is guaranteed to surprise your walking companions. St John’s Lodge itself is a private residence, however the gardens are open to the public. The centrepiece is a Grade II listed statue of a boy and a mermaid, Hylas and the Nymph.
South London
Battersea Park
With a fantastic location overlooking the River Thames, Battersea Park is spread over 83 hectares. It has many quiet spots in which to walk and meditate. The London Peace Pagoda was a gift from the Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist Order in 1984. A floating lantern ceremony takes place here in August each year, to commemorate the anniversary of the Nagasaki atomic bomb. The pagoda is looked after by Reverend Gyoro Nagase, a Buddhist monk who lives in the park. If you’re in need of refreshments, Pear Tree Cafe is a great place to eat by the lakeside.
Greenwich Park
Being besides water is always relaxing and Greenwich Park is no exception. This place is also brimming with history, being one of only UNESCO World Heritage Sites in London. There’s so much to see in the park, from the National Maritime Museum to the Royal Observatory and the iconic Meridian Line. Admire the longest herbaceous border in London at over 200 metres, situated in front of Queen’s House. If you visit on a Sunday, make sure to see the Queen’s Orchard, open from 1 am to 4 pm and accessed via Creed Place Gate. The Flower Garden is also not be missed, with its deer viewing points and huge cedar trees.
East London
Victoria Park
London’s oldest public park is also one of its largest, with 86 hectares of land to enjoy. Victoria Park has been popular with Londoner for over 170 years and parts of it are Grade II listed. There’s a Chinese pagoda overlooking one of the two lakes and the Pavilion Cafe is a good choice for refreshments. The Victoria Park Memoryscape Trail is a clever initiative enabling park visitors to learn about the park. You can download the whole trail or particular tracks or print off the Memoryscape Trail map. The whole walking route takes about 1 and a half hours.
West London
Chelsea Physic Garden
Dating from 1673, the Chelsea Physic Garden is one of the oldest botanical gardens in Britain. It’s also one of the most peaceful places in London. The name refers to the science of healing and it was originally established as the Apothecaries’ Garden. There are over 5,000 varieties of plants with healing and medicinal properties here. The Tangerine Dream Cafe overlooks the main lawn and is a lovely place in which to enjoy lunch or afternoon tea. Chelsea Physic Garden is open from 11 am to 6 pm, with the cafe closing at 5 pm, from 30 March to 2 November and an entrance fee applies. After visiting the garden, take a stroll along Chelsea Embankment to admire the view of Chelsea Bridge.
Kyoto Garden
Holland Park is one of the most picturesque of the capital’s parks. Within its 22 hectares, Kyoto Garden is a little slice of zen in London. The garden was donated by Kyoto Chamber of Commerce in 1992. Ever since, it’s been a popular spot for visitors and also for wildlife. You’ll often see herons basking by the pond, eyeing the koi carp! There are actually 2 Japanese gardens in Holland Park, with the other one being the Fukushima Memorial Garden. The park is open every day from 7 am and closes at dusk.
The Thames Path
Undoubtedly one of the best river walks in London, the Thames Path is a National Trail footpath stretching for 180 miles. It begins at the Thames Flood Barrier in Woolwich and goes all the way to Gloucestershire. One of the most scenic sections of the Thames Path is from Hampton Court to Staines. You’ll pass the iconic Hampton Court Palace before walking past houseboats and water reservoirs.
We hope you’ve enjoyed these suggestions of places to relax in London. We are firm believers in the power of walking to improve your mental and physical well-being.
Old Fashioned Mom Magazine hosted a VIP Soiree at The Skylark.
This intimate gathering included, Sabrina Baldieri, Lauren Lawrence, Alessandra Emanuel, Joy Marks, Elizabeth Washer, Laura Bounin and Michelle-Marie Heinemann.
The Septet celebrated the OFM lifestyle brand at The Skylark which provided the most fantastic views of the City.
Set thirty stories up in the heart of Times Square South, The Skylark delivers a classically-styled cocktail lounge with expansive panoramic views of the Hudson River, Hudson Yards, Times Square, The Empire State Building, and the best of Midtown Manhattan.
With its multi-level indoor spaces, open-air rooftop terrace and warm furnishings — designed by Meyer Davis Studio — The Skylark is a truly all-season destination. In cooler months, guests can enjoy breathtaking city views from the main lounge’s floor-to-ceiling windows. Warmer days deliver an experience that flows naturally between the indoor and outdoor spaces.
Drinks and food at The Skylark are as distinctive as the space itself. The exclusive mixologist’s cocktail menu is based on classic inspirations that are rendered using only the freshest ingredients. The light fare options include a variety of small plates – perfect for an after-work or evening bite.
I throughly enjoyed several of these Harvest Cobbler’s handcrafted by master mixologist Johnny Swet. It includes; Titos Vodka, Marilde Pear Liquor, Pear and Rosemary.
The Skylark was developed by hospitality veteran David Rabin together with Jim Kirsch and Alison Awerbuch of Abigail Kirsch.
I fell for Procida as soon as I saw the view from the Terra Murata. A tangle of houses painted in pink, yellow, blue and green tumbled towards Marina Corricella, the sun setting behind it and lighting up the sky in a blaze of orange and pink. Small fishing boats were dotted in the water—the fishermen use the lavishly bright buildings to find their way home.
I wondered how I’d never heard of this gorgeous island. Procida is the smallest island in the Bay of Naples and despite its location just a 40 minute hydrofoil ride from Naples it receives nowhere near as many foreign visitors as the neighbouring islands of Capri and Ischia. Procida seems to want to keep its secret to itself, although it’s popular with napoletani looking for a summer escape from the steaming, chaotic city.
The tiny island is only 4 square kilometres and we walked everywhere—to the black sand beaches that ring the island, almost empty during the week and bustling with families on weekends; and through the winding narrow streets in the centre, the high walls hiding cube shaped houses and lush gardens. Paintwork is faded and crumbling, doors are ancient and rusted, and the streets are enlivened with pink bougainvillea and tiny white jasmine, their scent accompanying us on our strolls. Lemon groves are squeezed into every available space.
Terra Murata is the highest point on the island and the oldest village—the fortress walls were built as protection from invaders in the 15th century. We wandered the medieval streets and visited the rather quirky and crumbling church the Abbazia di San Michele which has excellent views from its terrace.
Procida’s highlight is Marina Corricella, the colourful fishing village that’s built into the rock leading to the sea. The 17th century settlement is traffic-free and can only be reached by stairs in passageways through the houses. Along the waterfront there are piles of fishing nets and patio restaurants where you can enjoy a meal with a view of the Terra Murata and bobbing fishing boats.
Pacific Ocean views, pool parties and more, these 3 unique properties attract Hollywood’s elite time and time again.
You already expect comfort, convenience and chic interiors from a luxury retreat. But here are several properties that go above and beyond to satisfy even your most indulgent whims.
Stone Manor, Malibu, California
Known for its “Red Carpet Treatment” of guests, Stone Manor has a 25-year-long reputation among the elite of Hollywood. It’s been enjoyed by Academy Award winners, revered rock stars and prime-time television producers. But you don’t have to be a celebrity to feel like one.
“We want people to feel like a star in their own lives,” says Aime Lindsay, the owner. This means vetting the staff and every recommended experience. “A wonderful vacation doesn’t happen by accident, and you won’t get a do-over. It takes a team of people to put together a world-class celebration and vacation.”
We recommend booking Stone Manor for any occasion, but if you’re celebrating something special, tell your concierge and the staff will make it just perfect. Whether you want to have elegant cocktails with a few friends near the waterfall and pool, or you prefer a DJ’d dance party on the lawn looking out toward the Pacific Ocean, no request is too small, or too large. If you can, schedule your stay over the full moon, when the magic of the moonlight reflects off the water for miles.
Villa Contea, Tuscany, Italy
Located in the picturesque Val d’Orcia area of Tuscany, this magnificent country villa is among the rolling hills and vineyards that were the setting for the Oscar winning movie The English Patient and which provided the breathtaking panoramic countryside scenes fromGladiator. This is the kind of retreat that people dream of experiencing all of their lives. And Villa Contea is devoted to making sure that every detail of that dream comes true.
Three acres of manicured lawns, orchards, and groves make a paradise for relaxing travelers. A private chef can be arranged to provide authentic Italian meals made with local produce from Tuscan farm estates, and accompanied by wine from nearby vineyards. Several decadent spas and challenging golf courses are within an hour’s drive, as well as sightseeing opportunities in Montalcino Pitigliano, and Lake Bolsena.
If you go, we recommend asking the concierge to arrange a private, VIP tour of a vineyard in the heart of this world-renowned wine country. Cooking classes and truffle hunts are another great favorite among guests. Most of all, we recommend seeing as much of the countryside as possible, whether by Vespa, Ferrari, or hot air balloon. Whatever you dream of doing and seeing in the Italian countryside, Villa Contea is the ideal place to make it happen.
Casa Ramon, Playa Dominical, Costa Rica
Surrounded by rich, tropical vegetation along the Pacific coastline of Costa Rica is a home unlike any you’ve ever experienced. Perched on a lush mountainside with vast oceanic views, it is often visited by friendly wildlife including Capuchin monkeys, toucans, parrots, and the occasional sloth. Since its opening Ramon has been a favorite retreat of celebrity guests from around the world. This is the ultimate luxe getaway: plenty to do, but no pressure to do it.
Casa Ramon is, of course, a luxurious home with every comfort provided. Unique arrangements of fresh tropical flowers are displayed in each room, daily maid service ensures everything remains meticulously clean, and special arrangements can be made to satisfy even the smallest of whims. Whether you are interested in a hot stone massage in the private spa, or an original epicurean adventure with the chef, or even you would like fireworks to celebrate a special occasion, just ask your concierge!
While there is no shortage of adrenaline-pumping activities such as waterfall hikes in the mountains, zipline tours in the rainforest canopy, or horseback rides along the beach, we suggest you take every moment you can to practice the true meaning of the word “leisure”. Spend a quiet afternoon in a hammock with a margarita and a good book, or enjoy a candlelit dinner at sunset. It is the perfect place to reconnect both with nature and your loved ones.
“We want people to feel like a star in their own lives,” says Aime Lindsay, the owner. This means vetting the staff and every recommended experience. “A wonderful vacation doesn’t happen by accident, and you won’t get a do-over. It takes a team of people to put together a world-class celebration and vacation.”
Three acres of manicured lawns, orchards, and groves make a paradise for relaxing travelers. A private chef can be arranged to provide authentic Italian meals made with local produce from Tuscan farm estates, and accompanied by wine from nearby vineyards. Several decadent spas and challenging golf courses are within an hour’s drive, as well as sightseeing opportunities in Montalcino Pitigliano, and Lake Bolsena.
Casa Ramon is, of course, a luxurious home with every comfort provided. Unique arrangements of fresh tropical flowers are displayed in each room, daily maid service ensures everything remains meticulously clean, and special arrangements can be made to satisfy even the smallest of whims. Whether you are interested in a hot stone massage in the private spa, or an original epicurean adventure with the chef, or even you would like fireworks to celebrate a special occasion, just ask your concierge!
