Les Sables Roses by Louis Vuitton | Celebrating the Beauty of the Middle East

Les Sables Roses is Louis Vuitton’s latest addition to their line of exceptional fragrances. The perfume’s name which translates to ‘the pink sands’ was developed to pay homage to Middle Eastern scents.

Master Perfumer Jacques Cavallier Belletrud drew on thousand of years of Middle Eastern history to develop a scent that is thoroughly unique, yet pays homage to the region’s beauty and perfume making saga.

With respect to the desert’s majestic nature, Louis Vuitton has stated that the scent of Les Sables Roses is meant to awaken “the spellbinding moment in time at daybreak when the first rays of sunlight bathe the landscape in a shade of rose that blends dunes and sky. Between night and day, shadow and light, cold and heat, this instant reconciles contrasts.”

With notes of rose, oud, and ambergris, this perfume is genuinely reminiscent of both Arab and Persian fragrance making. This extraordinary contrast was accomplished through the use of outstanding earthly substances, namley, Ambergis, one of the rarest substances on the planet, which is employed to enhance the composition of the rose’s freshness and the oud’s woody aroma.

A time honored Middle Eastern tradition is the concept of layering different fragrances, in this respect Les Sables Roses does not disappoint. One unique opportunity is combining this scent with Louis Vuitton’s Ombre Nomade fragrance. All said, the finished product goes beyond the sum of the perfume’s ingredients and also the talent of Master Perfumer Jacques Cavallier Belletrud, to create a fragrance that is truly awe inspiring and quite essentially magical.

Image Credit: © Louis Vuitton courtesy of LVMH

scUber: Taking Rideshares Down Under(water)

In the most recent evolution of transportation technology, San Francisco based Uber Technologies has launched their latest innovation titled “scUber,” in which users can explore the Great Barrier Reef via the world’s first private submarine ridesharing service. With this new underwater opportunity, travelers visiting Queensland, Australia can now experience an hour-long submarine ride for two, as well as other amenities like scenic helicopter rides for the price of $3,000 AUD (roughly $2,060 USD).

Looking forward beyond the typical mode of automobile transportation, Uber has added marine travel to their ever growing list of creative ridesharing and transportation services, along with UberCopter in France and UberBoat in Croatia and India.

This scUber experience will be offered in Queensland, Australia from May 27 to June 18, 2019 for what Uber describes as a “once-in-a-lifetime experience [that] will provide riders with an unfiltered view of an extraordinary underwater world, rich and diverse in marine life.” Stretching across 2,300 kilometers (or about 1,430 miles), the Reef accounts for 10% of all coral reefs on Earth and is home to a diverse multitude of sea life like whales, sharks, manta rays, and turtles just to name a few. With the international prestige the Great Barrier Reef has, this recent development in aquatic adventures has ushered in an era of increased accessibility for tourists to safely visit the Reef, while also supporting efforts to preserve it.

As climate change continues to pose more threats to the survival of the Reef, the complex ecosystem that it holds is in danger of becoming extinct. Functioning as a source of sanctuary and nourishment for both humans and sea creatures alike, the death of the Great Barrier Reef could greatly impact the local Australian sea life, as well as standing as a precursor image for future extinctions of other natural wonders of the world. Because the Great Barrier Reef is more than just a fun tourist attraction, Uber has made sure that its presence there in Australia is more beneficial than detrimental to its conservation process.

In addition to the funds being generated through scUber users, Uber has donated another $100,000 AUD (about $70,000 USD) to Citizens of the Great Barrier Reef, an organization dedicated entirely to preserving the Reef and creating discourse on sustainability in general. The submarines used in this scUber experience will also be working to gather data for coral reef research on aquatic conservation.

Although scUber is primarily an experience for daring tourists to engage with, its creation is making great strides in maintaining essential parts of our ecosystem that would otherwise be left to fend for itself. Now, users will be able to enjoy their vacations while simultaneously contributing to important research and issues of environmental sustainability through an immersive aquatic adventure.

Images courtesy of: Tourism and Events Queensland

A Prized 1958 Ferrari 250 GT TdF Berlinetta to be offered at Gooding & Company’s 16th Pebble Beach Auction

Coming up this August, during famed Monterey Car Week, auction house Gooding & Company will be offering a wide selection of highly coveted automotive treasures at their 16th Pebble Beach sale to date. The 2019 sale is scheduled for August 16 and 17, 2019.

The auction house, which is well regarded for its designation as the official auction house of the annual Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, will be offering several stunning, classic Ferraris along with other sought after marques. Three particular standouts are a 1965 Jaguar E Type Series I 4.2 litre Roadster, a 1939 Alfa Romeo Tipo 256 Coupe, and our personal favourite the 1958 Ferrari 250 GT Tour de France Berlinetta.

This year’s crown jewel is undeniably the 1958 Ferrari 250 GT Tour de France Berlinetta. And this year’s example will be the second such to be offered by Gooding & Company’s Pebble Beach auction in the past two years. In 2018 a stunning dark grey example achieved a sale price of $6.6 million USD. That particular 250 GT TdF Berlinetta was cherished by noted Ferrari collector, Fred Peters for over half a century. One of just 78 produced, this year’s example features stunning two tone light grey and red paint work. Stepping into the interior an appropriate grey leather motif is prominent along with a set of special ‘Heuer stopwatches’ mounted in the dashboard. Like its younger sister, the Fred Peters’ owned chassis number 0905 GT, this year’s Chassis 0903 GT is just one of only 36 single-louver TdF Berlinettas constructed.

With a unique racing pedigree that includes ownership by racing drivers Sture Nottorp and later Kjell Lundberg, Chasis 0903 GT is sure to stand out to passionate northern European collectors. After making its way across the pond to the United States, the current owner had the vehicle rejuvenated in a ‘concours-quality’ restoration. With accolades accumulated at the 2013 Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este and the 2013 Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance, enthusiasts and collectors alike can be assured of this vehicle’s immaculate condition. An estimate of $5,500,000 – $6,000,000 USD has been announced, however, we will be unsurprised if this year’s TdF breaks a couple records.

“We are thrilled to offer this selection of beautiful Ferraris coming from dedicated, long-term owners,” says David Gooding, President and Founder of Gooding & Company. “This offering of exceptional cars speaks to our commitment to deliver the very finest cars to auction and is what makes our Pebble Beach Auctions so thrilling and unforgettable.”

Additional stand out offerings include a 1972 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona (Estimate: $750,000 – $850,000 USD) with under 21,000 miles original miles; and a 1967 Ferrari 330 GTS (Estimate: $2,000,000 – $2,400,000 USD), which is one of just 99 examples produced.

Featured Image Credit: All images copyright and courtesy of Gooding & Company. Photos by Brian Henniker

Rolls Royce Introduces an All-new Epicurean Experience

When an automotive enthusiast share a gourmand passion for champagne, among other epicurean delicacies, then one never can go wrong with a champagne chest. And that is certainly the case when introducing the Champagne Chest by the House of Rolls Royce. In what marks the latest addition to the name’s accessory portfolio, the Rolls-Royce Bespoke Design Collective had created the new Champagne Chest to suit the most luxurious of outings. The epicurean accessory can complement any setting, be it on the deck of a superyacht or on the terrace of your quiet abode.

The concept of the Champagne Chest is set to not only appear aesthetically pleasing, but also serves as a phenomenal element for setting an amicable mood that would be a great assistance in strengthening familial bonds and entertaining business associates. The design reflects Rolls Royce’s long-standing heritage of genius craftsmanship and intricate care to detail. The chassis, for example, is forged from a combination of machined aluminium and carbon fibre that is encased in Natural Grain black leather adorned alongside the Spirit of Ecstasy which is then defined by Tudor Oak Wood, all being materials used in crafting their cars.

“The Champagne Chest by Rolls-Royce Motor Cars is a contemporary and sociable addition to the Accessories Collection. The approach is that of designing a Rolls-Royce motor car; the finest materials are married with pinnacle engineering to provide an experience like no other. The Champagne Chest is crafted for those that seek a heightened sense of occasion in an elegant, entertaining manner and offers the irresistible allure of gadgetry.” Gavin Hartley, Head of Bespoke Design, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars.

With but a push of a button the chest grandly opens as a beautiful display of immaculate 4-person Champagne sets reveals itself. The outer lid serves as a multipurpose application when doubling as a Tudor Oak Wood serving tray with a laser-cut stainless steel inlay. Furthermore, Hidden underneath the fine, lacquered Tudor Oak table is four cotton napkins sporting the ‘RR’ ensignia.

To provide those seeking a genuine epicurean experience, two hammocks bedecked in ‘Hotspur Red’ Rolls Royce leather extend from either side of the Chest automatically to hold some of their favorites: be it champagne, caviar, canapés, among other gourmet specialities. The Chest also offers Thermal Champagne Coolers, made out of black anodised aluminium and carbon fibre, that exposes the ‘RR’ ensignia and guarantees the champagne stays at just the right temperature.

Future owners can choose a caviar configuration that includes two thermal caviar caissons, which offer approximately 30g tin, as well as two blini caissons. It is an unstoppable combination to have when paired with a chilling, yet refreshing glass of champagne. Additionally, Two Mother-of-Pearl spoons with handles of anodised aluminium are sheltered above the hammock, which was added to prevent lessening the tasteful flavor of the caviar. Lastly, three porcelain bowls stored in a matching thermal capsule is an option when partaking in more than one type of champagne.

Not confined by the shackles of the automotive world, the Accessory Collection transcends the word ‘luxury lifestyle’ as each piece mirrors the same quality and innovativeness Rolls Royce owners’ have come to expect from the Marque. You can purchase the Rolls Royce Champagne Chest through the Rolls Royce dealerships worldwide. The price for owning this unique Rolls Royce accessory begins at £37,000, not including the local taxes.

Images Courtesy of: Rolls-RoyceMotorCars.com

Feadship’s 93 Metre Masterpiece: Motor Yacht Lady S

Lady S is one of the most remarkable yachts launched by Feadship in recent years. After five years of design and construction, the 93 metre masterpiece is now characterized by her significant beam of 14.1 metres and unique balconies and wing stations. Lady S has undeniably ushered in a new generation of design language and luxury amenities.

Michael Leach Design worked closely with Lady S’s owner to achieve a modern, elegant, and ageless exterior. Feadship has described the Reymond Langton designed interior as reminiscent of a “beautiful and contemporary jewelry box”.  Searching the Earth for the most extraordinary materials, the owners and their Burgess Yachts’ selected team were uncompromising in their commitment to exceptional quality and craftsmanship.

During the launch of Lady S, the owners were quoted as saying “We want to thank Feadship director Jan-Bart Verkuyl and everyone at Feadship for taking us on an amazing journey.”

Stand out amenities aboard Lady S include four VIP staterooms with 8K televisions, a fully certified helipad, a two level IMAX cinema, and sports facilities that cater to the owner’s family’s diverse interests. Lady S offers her owner and guests the ability to play basketball, golf, volleyball, and even soccer.

Lady S is rumored to be owned by American businessman Daniel Snyder who is best known as the owner of the Washington Redskins. It was often stated that Mr. Snyder owned the former 68 metre Lady S, which was sold by Burgess last year.

Images courtesy of: Feadship

THE HENNESSEY VENOM F5 ROADSTER

Texas based Hennessey Special Vehicles has begun production of the 300+ mile per hour Venom F5 coupe. However, for those automotive enthusiasts that prefer an open air experience, some exciting news may be on the horizon. Hennessey has begun building a hard top roadster prototype which is scheduled to enter the testing phase before the year is up.

With uncompromising performance in mind, the Venom F5 Roadster prototype is set to be made from an ‘all-new, light-weight carbon fiber tub’ to enhance structural soundness. And a newly realized carbon fibre chassis crafted in the United Kingdom by Delta Motorsport will also insure additional strength and uncompromising performance.

Well, I’m sure many of you are wondering when exactly can we potentially expect the Venom F5 Roadster to enter production. Based on what we know from Hennessey’s latest announcement; the company will consider offering the Roadster to their discerning clientele after deliveries commence for the coupe early next year. This will likely mean that the Roadster would potentially enter production in 2021; as the company’s 36,000 square foot workshop will be highly focused on constructing coupes all through most of 2020.

The $1.6 million USD Venom F5 coupe is limited to just 24 examples. Hennessey has stated that if the F5 Roadster enters production that the model would be limited to 24 units like the coupe, however, the roadster’s price will be more expensive than the F5 coupe.

For more information please visit: Hennessey Specialty Vehicles

Images courtesy of: Hennessey Specialty Vehicles

4 Extravagant Yacht Charter Destinations for Summer 2019

Famed Yacht Broker & Charter agent, Camper & Nicholsons has assembled an offering of brilliant and uncompromisingly unique charter destinations for the summer of 2019. The list of hard to reach destinations is sure to bring out the explorer in any of us! From a list consisting of over 200 extraordinary itineraries. In this article we’ve identified four destinations that you and your guests are sure to enjoy.

Featured charter yachts for the summer of 2019 include the 216 foot motor yacht Okto with its sharp distinctive lines, 20 foot long infinity pool, spa, and gym. Another favorable offering is the 134 foot Ocean Emerald designed by the famed Sir Norman Foster.

Diving enthusiasts will love this Archipelago of 1,500 small islands in Indonesia. Raja Ampat, which translates to ‘Four Kings’ in English, is one of the true gems of Indonesia. Waigeo, Salawati, Batanta, Misool are the four main islands or ‘kings’ which gave birth to the Archipelago’s namesake.

The sample 11 day itinerary by Camper and Nicholsons begins on the originally dutch settled island of Missol, renowned for its fabulous reef diving opportunities. Highlights of diving near Missol include the opportunity to enjoy seldom scene reefs consisting of an abundance of untouched sea fans and soft corals. Following the departure from Missol, you and your guests may enjoy diving around the other three main islands.

The Raja Ampat is often praised for its abundance of sea life including healthy coral reefs and Wobbegong sharks. At the Otdima Reef, divers can spot schools of Plectorhinchus which often gather around coral heads. Diving near the island of Cape Kri, divers can often spot over 350 species of fish in an hour and a half dive. Last, but certainly not least, Giant Manta Rays are sometimes spotted at the submerged seamount known as Blue Magic.

Exploring the last frontier by yacht is a truly remarkable experience. And that is why the charter experts at Camper and Nicholsons have put together a one week itinerary for exploring Alaska.

You and your guests will begin your exploration of the Alaskan wilderness by boarding your yacht in Juneau. What is the first activity? You may say. You will be able to choose between an exhilarating hike to the top of Mount Roberts or a helicopter tour to the Mendenhall Glacier. As one would expect, glaciers are a prominent part of this Alaskan charter experience. Travelers will be treated to a view of both the South and North Sawyer glaciers, the disintegrating Dawes Glacier, and the abundant wildlife which includes humpback whales.

For the kayaking enthusiast, a journey to Red Bluff Bay allows for up close observation of bears as they attempt to catch a salmon diner. Red Bluff Bay is a prime destination for catching shrimp and Dungeness crab. Your freshly caught crab can be delicately prepared as exceptional sushi by your chef. As for those craving a spa day, enjoy a day soaking in the nine hot springs at Baranof. Finally, take a journey through Chatham Strait, which allows for a stop to feast on delicious cinnamon rolls and enjoy breathtaking hikes in Tenakee Springs.

This charter begins in Albania and shortly makes its way to Greece. Soak up the sun in the eastern Mediterranean as you visit Corfu, Meganisi and Ithaka; as well as 6 other islands over a period of ten days. As pictured above, private turquoise coves are a standout characteristic of this charter itinerary. This charter will offer you and your guests the very best of Greece
from secluded beaches and turquoise bays to ancient temples ruins.

The white sand beaches on the small island of Antipaxos are truly some of the best on earth and are equally complemented by warm Greek hospitality and extraordinary culinary delights. Waverunners, Sailing Dingies, Jet Skis, and water skiing are all spectacular ways to spend an afternoon during your charter. A day trip to Lefkada allows for the history enthusiast to visit ancient ruins including the 500 year old Lëkurësi Castle and Forty Saints Monastery.

Nature lovers will be consumed by the natural beauty of Norway during this 14 day charter. Wildlife, dramatic landscapes, and awe inspiring icebergs are the epitome of Svalbard, an archipelago between Norway and the North Pole.

Svalbard gives visitors 24 hours of sunshine during the summer months. You and your guests will have the privilege of spotting polar bears, Svalbard reindeer and Arctic foxes all across the chain of islands. Claiming the title of the most northern inhabited locale on earth, Svalbard is characterized by glaciers, snowy peaks, and seemingly endless ice-fields.

The charter experts at Camper and Nicholsons advise that you begin your holiday by discovering the diverse terrain of Europe’s final frontier. The following few days will be occupied by a cruise through the breathtaking Norwegian fjords along the Finnmark coast. Visiting the Svaerholdtklubben Bird Colony is a highlight of this journey. Unique rock formations are plentiful and the sacred sea cliff named Finnkjerkja is a cannot miss. The islands of Troms County allow for you and your guests to enjoy a myriad amount of outdoor activities including kayaking, hiking, and fishing. However, our favorite thing about the thousands of islands that make up Troms County is the unpolluted air and wealth of flora and fauna. Unique species that call Troms County home include Otters, Sea Eagles, Lynx, and
Harbor Porpoises.

Images courtesy of: Camper & Nicholsons

The 11th Annual The Quail Motorcycle Gathering

On May 4th over three thousand motorcycle enthusiast gathered at the Peninsula Hotel’s Quail Lodge & Golf Club. The event at hand can only be described as one of the most spectacular gatherings of unique motorcycles, enthusiasts, and delicious cuisine. Of course, the event we are referring to is The Quail Motorcycle Gathering, a sister event to the beloved Motorsports Gathering, which occurs during Monterey Car Week.

The highlight of the event was a 1969 Honda CB750 Sandcast owned by Sam Roberts, which took home the “Best of Show” award at the 11th Annual The Quail Motorcycle Gathering. Collectors, designers, and racers took part in the awards ceremony where they judged 350+ entrants, which competed for coveted titles.

The event’s 11th incarnation was characterized by an enormous and wide spread collection of antique bikes that were recognized for their unique historical and cultural contributions. Classes were divided into many different categories including American, British, Italian, Other European, Japanese, Competition On-Road, Competition Off Road, Antique, Custom/Modified, and Extraordinary Bicycles and Scooters.

Spectators were able to peruse through lineups of motorcycles on the golf course in a park like setting. Standout amenities at the event were plentiful with the inclusion of live music, wine, lifestyle vendors, and an epicurean selection of fine cuisine crafted by talented chefs.

For more information please visit: Peninsula Signature Events

Image Credit: Paulo Rosas courtesy of: Peninsula Signature Events via Kahn Media

Summer Living Room Inspiration

With the summer season at our doorstep, we’ve taken a moment to assemble a collection of some of our favorite chic living rooms that just ooze elegant, summertime vibes by bringing the outdoors in.

277 Fifth Avenue – New York, New York

Manhattan’s highly desirable 277 Fifth Avenue is located at the intersection of the city’s east, west, uptown, and downtown. Famed ONE57 interior designer, Jeffrey Beers’ latest masterpiece offers buyers a selection of plush residences featuring a signature interior palette consisting of Italian marble, white oak floors, and bespoke walnut vanities. A sizable portion of 277 Fifth Avenue’s units include elegant living rooms with floor to ceiling windows, which let in extraordinary views of the outdoors including the Hudson and East River.

Image Credit: Three Marks

Rock House – Turks and Caicos Islands

The ‘minimal-yet-warm living areas’ are a defining characteristic of the condos at Rock House resort located in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Residences at the resort have been envisioned by Shawn Henderson, who is well regarded for his AD100 designation. Locally sourced limestone is used to craft the walls of the residences along with a simple collection of unstated materials, such as lightly washed wood. However, the pièce de résistance of the residences are the living rooms with their floor to ceiling glass walls that open up to terraces with panoramic, tropical views of ‘Providenciales’ crystal-clear blue waters’.

Image Credit: Grace Bay Resorts

Alaia Belize – San Pedro, Belize

The oceanfront villas at Alaia Belize, which are currently under development, will be built to showcase the culture of outdoor living in Belize. A seamless connection to the outdoors offers residents the ability to enjoy San Pedro’s most glorious natural characteristics.

Brought to life by eco-luxury designer Debora Aguiar, Oceanfront Villa living rooms, as pictured above, offer their residents direct access to the beach and sea. In line with the designers environmental consciousness, Alaia residences will be made from re-purposed wood and local rustic marbles and stones.

Image Credit: Alaia Belize

Residence 2646 (Troon Pacific) – San Francisco, California

Residence 2646 is the brainchild of Troon Pacific, the masterminds behind the stunning Residence 950, currently the most expensive listing in San Francisco. The living room at 2646 flows directly into a garden via an easily concealed sliding glass wall. The garden, which features a ‘sunken outdoor lounge’ is a truly harmonious example of blending indoor and outdoor space in an urban environment.

Troon Pacific made good use of the residences design by incorporating sustainable design features, such as solar panels and LEED Platinum pre-certification. Balconies are plenty throughout the residence and the use of glass railings and walls is equally abundant.

Image Credit: Troon Pacific

Turnberry Ocean Club – Sunny Isles Beach, Florida

Turnberry Ocean Club’s 154 residences are located in Sunny Isles Beach, a 35 minute drive north of Miami Beach. Situated directly off of Collins Avenue, the Turnberry Ocean Club is located on prime ‘Millionaire’s Row’. All residences boast living rooms with floor to ceiling windows, allowing residents to absorb the best sunrises and sunsets that Florida has to offer. All condos are equipped with an outdoor kitchen on their ocean facing terraces.

Residences are available for purchase with asking prices ranging from $3.9 million to $35 million USD.

Image Credit: Courtesy of Turnberry Ocean Club

Featured Image Credit: Troon Pacific courtesy of Quinn PR

Gulfstream G650ER And G500 Acquire Accolades

It has been announced that Gulfstream’s design team was shortlisted for two International Yacht & Aviation Awards. The ultralong-range Gulfstream G650ER’s interior design was shortlisted for the Private Jet Design award, while the ultra-modern Gulfstream G500 was shortlisted for the Private Jet Design Concept award. The cutting-edge Gulfstream G600 and flagship G650ER acquired The International Yacht & Aviation Awards for Private Jet Design in 2018 and 2017, respectively.

With an emphasis towards comfort and functionality, the innovative Gulfstream-designed seats on both the G500 and G600 have placed it in the Product category in 2018 for The International Yacht & Aviation Award. On the other hand, the interior of the G650ER, which is a combination of tranquility and elegance, was prominently highlighted in this year’s Private Jet Design category. The G650ER was selected for the fact that it honors Gulfstream’s over 60-year heritage by joining groundbreaking design elements with state-of-the-art technological features.

The G650ER’s design is simply remarkable as it bridges design with outstanding performance capabilities as well as an ambient cabin space with meticulously selected textures and finishes motivated by rich design style. The cabin offers passengers a serene yet hearty ambience through the use of 100 percent fresh air, low cabin altitude and panoramic windows.

Gulfstream G650ER

Gulfstream, a subsidiary of General Dynamics, commits themselves to the designing, developing, manufacturing, marketing, servicing and supporting of the world’s most leading-edge business jets. That said, it is no wonder that several aircrafts from their fleet were selected for The International Yacht & Aviation Awards. Gulfstream’s current fleet comprises of the G280, the G550, the G500, the G600, the G650 and the G650ER.

Gulfstream conceptualized an interior layout that mirrors the technologically advanced and superior performanced G500 for the Private Jet Design Concept category. This Velocity concept translates from the speed of life on terrain to the highly accelerated Gulfstream speed above the clouds. Taking inspiration from high-concept racing, the Velocity G500 showcases an interior and exterior visage that corresponds with the performance capabilities that Gulfstream is known for.

Winners of The International Yacht & Aviation Awards are chosen through popular vote. Ballots, however, can be cast anytime from April 24th to May 22nd.

For more information visit: Gulfstream.com