An Interview with Chef Takeo Yamazaki of YOSHI

Chef Takeo Yamazaki has made YOSHI one of Monaco’s premiere dining establishments by pushing aside restaurants like Nobu, with his innovative approach to Japanese Cuisine. Yoshi’s selections of maki, nigiri, sashimi, and classic hot dishes bridge the gap between eastern and western flavors. The fruits of these efforts have resulted in YOSHI becoming the only Michelin Star Japanese restaurant in the region since 2010.

Located within the Hotel Metropole Monte Carlo, Yoshi’s exceptional cusine is complimented by a fine drink selection and a sober atmosphere. A menu of sakes and green teas were hand selected by the sommelier. YOSHI’s elegant dining room was designed by Didier Gomez and the menu of fresh local produce is served alongside a view of a Japanese-inspired garden. 

To learn more about Yoshi, we spoke with Chef Takeo on how YOSHI continues to wow their loyal following of patrons.

What is the inspiration behind YOSHI?

“My inspiration comes from my mentor Joël Robuchon who was in love with Japanese culture and gastronomy. We realised at the time that there was no great Japanese restaurant in the Côte d’Azur and we started to work on the concept of Yoshi.“

How do you balance traditional dishes while incorporating modern techniques?

“My passion is blending  traditional Japanese dishes with French delicacies. For example, adding Foie gras or caviar to an otherwise typical Japanese dish. You can use the Tataki, Agemono and tempura techniques and incorporate products that are European and make it a great plate.“

“So, I would say I use traditional techniques but with products that are not usually included in Japanese gastronomy. A great example of this is our wasabi puree which is a side dish that really pleases our guests. It’s interesting to integrate a very traditional Japanese product into a very popular dish like mashed potatoes.”

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What elements do you believe set Yoshi apart from all of the other Japanese restaurants on the Riviera? 

“YOSHI has an amazing design with a Japanese style garden so it sets the tone when you enter. It is as if you were in Japan. YOSHI is also an intimate restaurant, which allows us to cater to our guests in a very personalized way. We are the only Japanese restaurant on the French Riviera to have been awarded a Michelin star since 2010 and this star still shines since we obtained it.“

What is the greatest challenge to maintaining a menu that appeals to both Western and Eastern palates?

“It is challenging; however, when we opened YOSHI, it was more of a challenge. Nowadays our clientele is well travelled and their palates have adapted to Japanese cuisine. They would be keener now to taste a traditional dish without having to adapt it to western palates. However sour flavors and gelatinous textures are still difficult for most Europeans.“

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Have you always had a passion for European and Japanese flavours? 

“Yes, because I love to travel and find my inspirations through these moments where I go taste different restaurants around the world. It’s funny to see now that it’s common that Western dishes are reinvented into Japanese styles where Japanese ingredients get new foreign treatments and foreign ingredients get Japanese treatments, respectively.”

In a previous interview, you stated that if you were not a chef, then you would be an interior designer. With this in mind, how do you believe Yoshi’s remarkable design contributes to the overall dining experience?

“Yoshi is an experience and the design by Didier Gomez plays a big role in the contribution of our overall reputation. Visual presentation is an absolutely essential ingredient – it’s as much a part of the dining experience as the actual taste of the food.”

Images courtesy of Hotel Metropole

Michelin Starred Yoshi reopens for Lunch at the Hotel Metropole Monte Carlo

As of today, the Hotel Metropole Monte Carlo has reopened Yoshi for lunch service. The restaurant is the only Japanese eatery on the Côte d’Azur to have been awarded a Michelin star since 2010. Behind the kitchen’s helm is Chef Takeo Yamazaki, who offers patrons a fresh, healthy and modern menu with traditional flavors, adapted to Western palates. Takeo Yamazaki joined the Metropole Monte Carlo 13 years ago as the Head Chef of Yoshi and within two years received a Michelin Star for his cuisine that mixes the best of Eastern and Western flavors.

A highlight of the experience at Yoshi is the welcoming atmosphere designed by Didier Gomez, who worked extensively to marinate a selection of fine materials, such as ebony wood, stone and silks. Complementing the fine interiors of Yoshi are Japanese inspired gardens crafted by landscape architect, Jacques Messin. The garden’s design language was instituted to perfectly augment Chef Yamazaki’s simplistic, yet refined sunrise cuisine. Yoshi’s open kitchen and sushi bar allows guests to admire the artfully crafted maki, sashimi, nigiri, as well as fish or meat cooked with a teppanyaki grill. Highlights of the menu include EBI SHINJO (shrimp balls with kombu) and GHINDARA (black cod marinated for 72 hours). Yoshi’s celebrated cuisine is accompanied by fine Japanese sake, whiskies and green teas.

Yoshi’s hours are from Tuesday to Saturday, from 12:15pm to 2:00 pm and from 7:30pm to 11:00pm. To book your table at the best Japanese restaurant on the Riviera, call +377 93 15 13 13 or email yoshi@metropole.com

Get Treated Like Hawaiian Royalty at ESPACIO, Waikiki’s Enviable Resort

Situated along Honolulu’s Waikiki Beach, is ESPACIO, a five star, nine-floor resort, with just nine 2,250-square-foot multi-bedroom suites. As one of Hawaii’s most exclusive resorts, guests of ESPACIO enjoy a range of amenities including a butler service and a white glove tour of Iolani Palace, where guests can enjoy behind-the-stanchions access to collections previously closed to the public. How’s that for a royal treatment?

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The suites, which enjoy a private elevator entry, feature up to three bedrooms and three and a half baths. However, the most impressive amenity is the lack of something, neighbors, as each suite occupies a full floor. A Jacuzzi, ocean view balcony, and dry sauna are noteworthy highlights. The designer kitchens are well supplied with snacks and beverages; whereas the spa like bathrooms enjoy toiletries by BVLGARI. Last, but certainly not least, to combat the damaging effects of sunscreen on Hawaii’s coral reefs, ESPACIO provides guests with complimentary use of Shiseido’s ocean-friendly sunscreens.

To exceed cleanliness goals, ESPACIO has integrated Aqua-Aston Hospitality’s Next Level Clean program, as well as a thermal scanning system in the entry of the hotel. The installation of air filtration ventilation systems in all suites and common areas is a focal point of the cleanliness measures unique to ESPACIO.

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Guests of ESPACIO are able to take advantage of preferred reservations at the hotel’s celebrated French Japanese concept, Mugen. Here, Chef Jason Yamaguchi crafts internationally sourced ingredients into a unique eight course tasting menu. Rare ingredients, such as Sasanian osetra caviar, Chateau Uenae A5, and summer truffle jus elevate Mugen’s seasonal menu to one of the most acclaimed in all of Hawaii. Mugen’s epicurean delights are only rivaled by the restaurant’s epic beverage selection. Macallan Rare Cask Black, Appleton Estate 50 Year Old Jamaica Rum, and a collection of rare Japanese whiskies along with a 500 bottle wine collection make Mugen’s selections generous. An expert tip, for those who prefer a superior view to Mugen’s courtyard or elegant dinning room, try ESPACIO’s personal chef-prepared dinner on the hotel’s rooftop infinity pool deck.

Image credit: Aqua-Aston Hospitality, provided courtesy of Quinn PR

6 Reasons To Visit Gstaad This Summer

_{Lauenensee – Copyright: Destination Gstaad / Gstaad Saanenland Tourismus}

Although most of you probably think of the Swiss Alps as a strictly winter destination, the splendid village of Gstaad has much to offer in the summer months. This charming mountain destination has inspired many of the world’s most discerning travelers with its blend of modern and traditional Swiss culture. To learn more about this summer paradise in the Bernese Oberland, we caught up with frequent visitor, Joya Burda, who has given us a handful of irresistible reasons to visit Gstaad in the summer.

1. Events

Although relatively small, compared to many summer hotspots, Gstaad boasts three world class events in the summer. First held in Gstaad in 1898, the Swiss Open, which takes place from July 17^th through the 25^th this year, will see tennis stars compete to win this ATP tournament. Although it was not held in 2020 due to the pandemic, next month we will see the best of the best compete for close to €500,000 in prize money.  With an elevation of over 1,000 meters above sea level, the event is the highest ATP venue in Europe. Typically Gstaad hosts the glamorous Hublot Polo Gold Cup, one of Europe’s most prominent Polo events. Though, unfortunately, the event will not return until August of 2022.

For those who prefer the culture of classical music to sport, rest assured Gstaad hosts the Menuhin Festival. The cultural event, which takes place from July 16^th through September 4^th, features more than 50 classical concerts.

2. Private Clubs

If you’re fortunate enough to be friends with a member of one of Gstaad’s most elite clubs, you’ll be in for a treat. Founded more than six decades ago, the Eagle Ski Club is a private members only club best known for its renowned restaurant set within a Chalet atop Wasserngrat. The club’s views are unrivaled and its membership process makes it one of the most exclusive clubs of its kind. The Eagle Ski club is open for 3 months in the summer, and is rumored to host walking competitions. This club is old school, so if you’re lucky enough to visit, do yourself a favor and don’t take a call on the terrace, your phone may just find itself falling off the mountain.

Founded by Ernesto Bertarelli is Club de Luge, a new modern and fresh ski club located atop Eggli at an elevation of 1550 meters. The members only club enjoys a unique interior design mastered by Archer Humphryes. A drink at the bar set within the center of the chalet is a particularly enchanting experience as the views are what we’d call airliner worthy.

3. Cuisine

Located on Main Street in downtown Gstaad is a true gem, if you like traditional Swiss Cuisine, when discussing a recent visit, Joya Burda says “The Olden has finally opened up again, so we had a yummy schnitzel. That’s like the best schnitzel,” The Olden’s eclectic atmosphere is complemented by hearty cuisine, in addition to the fantastic schnitzel, the filet of sole is rather brilliant.

A spectacular outdoor dining destination is the Sonnenhof with modern French and Italian cuisine. The Sonnenhof’s terrace enjoys views of Gstaad. Joya adds “[the] Spitzhorn, that’s beautiful in the summer, because they have a really beautiful terrace.” Continuing “Arc en ciel, which is just a go to all the time, [and] the HUUS; those are like the main, I would say summer [restaurants because] they have the nicest terraces.”

4. Art

For the art connoisseur, Gstaad has much to offer. Haueser & Wirth respected for their galleries around the globe features a unique collection of modern art. When discussing art in the village, Joya states “The big art gallery, Hauser & Wirth [have] rented Gunter Sachs’ Chalet in Oberbort, and they have a by appointment art gallery there, which [is] quite unique.” But Hauser & Wirth is not the only cultural destination in Gstaad. “At the private airport in Saanen, there is [Tarmak22], which is also an art gallery.” Tarmak22 will be featuring an exhibition titled Découpage, A Labour Of Love from July 1^st through October 1^st. This show is open to public.

5. Sporting Activities

When asked about sporting activities in Gstaad, Joya enthusiastically responds “I’m a big tennis fanatic, so there is a really cool public outdoor tennis court in Saanen [that I like to visit]. No one really knows about it and the courts are super easy to rent out.” The courts, which are located near the train station, are ideal for summer use, as all the courts in Gstaad are located mainly indoors. The tennis courts can be booked by phone.

“There is a lot of hiking, and a lot of mountain biking, and a lot of mountain trails, so I really [recommend] Arnensee and Lauenensee, they are the top two [to visit].” Joya adds, “[they are great for walks, hikes, barbecues, and camping. Arnensee and Lauenensee are around [mountain] lakes and are just beautiful [trails] with different routes you can take. It’s just gorgeous to go there, they are great for their three or four hour trails.” The trails are specified for either walking or biking. Some trails in Gstaad and Saanen are now lined with unique vending machines with farm fresh treats such as cheese and cold cuts. Perfect for the hungry hiker.

Pilates and yoga workshops are held in the summer throughout Gstaad, but horseback riding with a mountain backdrop is an ideal way to spend an afternoon. Reitzentrum Gstaad, the local equestrian center is nestled between Gstaad and Saanen. Riding lessons are available in German, French, and English. If horseback riding is not your thing, the Golfclub Gstaad-Saanenland has an 18 hole golf course at 1,400 meters above sea level.

For thrill seekers,  Joya adds “you can jump off a mountain and fly. [Personally] I’ve never done it, but in chateau-d’Oex they have quite a lot of parachuting and hot air balloon [rides].” The hot air balloon rides which are perfect for a picnic or proposal are a relaxing alternative to the thrills of sky diving and paragliding from mountain tops. Lastly, “the Sports Center in Gstaad [has] outdoor beach volleyball, which is quite fun.”

6. The Parties & World Class Accomadation

Gstaad usually has some fairly remarkable summer parties, which often take place at either the Alpina or the Gstaad Palace, both are Gstaad’s premier hotels. When discussing the best parties, Joya explains “you’re either a Palace person or an Alpina person.” When asked which she personally prefers Joya admits she is a Palace person when the Gringo is open otherwise she prefers the Alpina, because “they have the best drinks menu.” The Alpina is more modern and less traditional than the Palace. For the best of both worlds visit the Alpina for drinks followed by a trip to the Gringo at the Gstaad Palace.

Although this year, there are no big parties due to the Pandemic. On special occasions the Alpina converts their cinema into an exclusive nightclub for a strict guest list only party, often with special DJs from all over Europe.

The Gstaad Palace boasts traditional old school glamour, whereas the Alpina Gstaad’s new and modern atmosphere often captures the attention of a younger crowd. However, both hotels have splendid outdoor pools open in the summer months.

Other options for places to stay include the Le Grande Bellevue with its ultra luxurious spa. If you’re traveling with a large group, we highly suggest renting a chalet in Oberbort just beneath the Palace hotel.

 

All images provided courtesy of Destination Gstaad

8 Must Try Dishes in Miami

As Covid 19 vaccines are dispersed, travel is continuing to increase and with it, culinary destinations such as Miami have prepared for a surge in visitors, expecting no less than a gastronomical wonderland. In this list, which spans Mila Miami to MR CHOW; we have assembled a guide to 8 of Miami’s most exciting dishes this Spring Summer season!

Lobster Ravioli at Ambersweet at the Confidante Miami Beach

Located within the Confidante Miami Beach, is Ambersweet, a fusion restaurant boasting a retro glamour atmosphere and exceptional culinary creations, such as the Lobster Ravioli: a delicacy crafted from ingredients the like of buttermilk, a carrot reduction, burnt orange and chervil. Ambersweet is named after the superfluous Ambersweet Orange, a hybrid of grapefruit, tangerine and sweet orange. Nearly every dish at the restaurant includes a citrus element.

Tempura Beech Mushroom at Buya Izakaya + Yakitori

Buya, which means small fire in Japanese, was founded by Chef Michael Lewis and Steven Haigh of KYU; with Buya, the pair partnered with Michael Sponaugle to create a new concept. Modeled after an Izakaya (an informal Japanese bar), the restaurant serves high quality street style dishes as well as inventive cocktails, such as a Sake Juice Box. One menu item that is a particular stand out is the Tempura Beech Mushroom, reminiscent of a “bloomin onion” the dish is a mix of crispy and crunchy, featuring an umami beech mushroom bomb at the center covered in an Asian twisted ranch. According to Buya, the dish lands on almost every table.

The Swag Burger at BurgerFi Miami

The third dish on our list, may appear to be a simple burger, yet is anything but. BurgerFi’s super spicy SWAG Burger is available for just a few more weeks. The limited time burger, ground from Wagyu-Brisket, is beloved by Martha Stewart and is said to pack heat without being painfully spicy. Candied ghost pepper bacon is the not so secret ingredient.

Lobster Crudo at MILA Miami

The all new “MediterrAsian” menu at ultra-chic MILA Miami is filled with incredible highlights. The all-star culinary team brought life to a selection of fusion cuisine with rich flavors and inventive presentations. One particular stunner at this rooftop restaurant is the Lobster Crudo, marinated in citrus juice and crafted through a traditional Japanese “Konbu-jime” technique, the Lobster is cured in seaweed and served Ceviche style to share.

Baklava French Toast at Estiatorio Ornos a Michael Mina Restaurant

Yes, you read that right, Baklava French Toast. Estiatorio Ornos a Michael Mina Restaurant’s Executive Chef, Nikolaos Georgousis has developed a fantasy worthy treat. This classic eastern Mediterranean dessert has been reinvented as a brunch favorite. Notes of cinnamon, honey, and Florida citrus awaits.

Wagyu Gunkan at Zuma Miami

Now over one decade old, the chic Miami eatery, Zuma, is defined as a modern destination and favorite among Miamians. The restaurant’s remarkable view of the Miami River offers a renowned selection of contemporary Japanese delicacies right in downtown Miami. Our favorite among the menu’s many highlights is the Gunkan, which translates to “War Boat” in English. Small boat shaped cylinders of Japanese rice are wrapped in seaweed and topped with Wagyu beef. The design is a brilliant nod to the yachts which fill Miami’s many waterways nearby.

MR CHOW NOODLES at MR CHOW Miami

Magical noodles simmer in anticipation at the renowned MR CHOW Miami. The show worthy experience at MR CHOW’s Miami establishment is truly epicurean theatre. All of the noodles at this eatery are hand pulled towards the tableside to allow guests to watch the noodle making process from beginning to end. The experience allows guests to develop an intimate connection between themselves and the cuisine. Whether Flambéing Bananas Foster or pulling Bejing-style noodles, the art of table side service has steadily, yet unfortunately declined in fine dining. This is why you should support MR CHOW’s commitment to handcrafted excellence; the experience is truly remarkable and entirely entertaining.

Watermelon Salad at Mila Miami

Last, but certainly not least, we end this list of gastronomical splendor with a familiar name. Back at Mila Miami another highlight, albeit lighter than the Lobster Crudo, is the refreshing Watermelon Salad. The refreshing summer dish is sweet and savory with the combination of watermelon and organic tomatoes. Mila Miami’s culinary team uses “modern techniques and sauces to fuse the ingredients.”

Featured Image credit: MR CHOW

_{All images provided via Quinn PR}

Residences at the St. Regis Los Cabos Are Now Available

This month Ernesto Coppel, in collaboration with Olarena Hospitality Group, announced the highly anticipated first phase of sales for The Residences at The St. Regis Los Cabos. Situated within the award winning private community of Quivira, The Residences at the St. Regis Los Cabos offer access to the impressive award-winning Jack Nicklaus Golf Course and the Quivira Golf Club. With just 74 private residences, buyers will have access to the many amenities of the highly anticipated 120-room hotel, such as concierge services, seven resort pools, three restaurants, the St. Regis Spa, fitness and wellness center, Astor ballroom with 30,000 square feet of meeting space, a children’s club, and lush art gardens and landscaped courtyards.

“The Residences at The St. Regis Los Cabos will set a new standard in handcrafted luxury and offer the opportunity to own a masterpiece of enduring legacy,” said Ruben Reachi, CEO of the project. “We are confident that this property will be highly sought-after given the great beauty of its location, distinctive architecture, and prestigious St. Regis brand.” 

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The residences designed by SB Architects are positioned at the Southern edge of the Baja Peninsula on a 33 acre property. St. Regis is making a handful of oceanfront villas and condos available as part of their phase 1 residence sales. The seven 3,000+ square foot ocean view condominiums, which include a top floor penthouse, are available from $2.8 million USD; whereas five oceanfront villas have a starting price of $9 million USD. Construction at the hotel and residences is ongoing with a projected opening date of fall 2022. The five bedroom villas enjoy over 6,800 square feet of living space with ample walls of glass and terraces, which feature infinity edge pools and private beachfront space. The interiors of the residences are the work of Hirsch Bedner Associates San Francisco and boast marble counters in kitchens and baths, as well as marble floors throughout.  

The luxurious condominiums that feature three and four bedroom layouts with generous terrace space benefit from uninterrupted views of the sea and “dramatically set against the Old Lighthouse Hill.” Outdoor kitchens and hot tubs complete the condominiums. Set above the rest is a nearly 6,000 square foot penthouse that includes four bedrooms and a private roof top oasis with swimming pool.

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“The Residences at The St. Regis are leading the way for the luxury segment on the Pacific Ocean side of Los Cabos,” said Myles Newell, Principal of Waypoint Resort Real Estate, whose firm is exclusively handling the sales and marketing of the development. “The current property market in Los Cabos is very active with an ever-growing strong demand for luxury properties. Our high-end properties, combined with the superior quality of service and stature that the St. Regis brand represents will benefit from this demand.” 

Located just 4 miles from Cabo San Lucas International Airport with private jet access, the St. Regis Los Cabos provides a luxurious combination of convenience and luxury. In our eyes, The St. Regis Los Cabos is sure to become a top holiday and 2nd home destination in Baja, California.

_{Photo credit: The Residences at St. Regis Los Cabos}

An Exciting Vacation Atop The Ski Slopes This Season | VistaJet-to-Slopes

VistaJet released a new offering for its members under the banner of their Private World Collection dubbed VistaJet-to-Slopes. This addition allows members to engage in a wonderous experience skiing down the icy cold slopes of Aspen, Colorado. Not without boasting first-class accommodations, the collection can take you to places such as Hotel Jerome, a heartwarmingly lavish destination that is sure to provide you with the perfect resting place after an exciting time on the slopes.

Recognized as one of Aspen, Colorado’s most luxurious properties, Hotel Jerome comfortably accommodates 93 guests rooms with sweeping views of the mountains and suites in the vicinity. The key points of this cozy stay, however, is four incredible skiing spots located at four of the surrounding mountains: Aspen, Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass. Those looking for some fun on the slopes can reach any of the aforementioned mountains through a lift ticket, and afterwards take a trip back in order to enjoy the hotel’s spa. VistaJet collaborates with their members to give them a stress-free journey; from taking care of check-in to ensuring the utmost in privacy to playing host by offering personal services along the way, its the little details that make the trip all the more enjoyable.

(Hotel Jerome)

Built in 1889, Hotel Jerome, which is but one of several properties under Auberge Resorts Collection’s portfolio, has been labeled a modern Aspen landmark since its founding. The hotel radiates a very special vibe stemming from its elegantly designed rooms and Western inspired décor. In addition to Hotel Jerome, the VistaJet features several other remarkable skiing oriented properties that are also included in VistaJet’s latest collection.

Another property from Auberge Resorts Collection in Telluride, the Madeline Hotel and Residences stands out in particular for skiers and travel enthusiasts, alike. The hotel is situated at the cusp of a canyon from which red rock elevates from the ground and a beautiful backdrop of the San Juan Mountains’ snow covered peaks is a sight to behold and experience with immediate access to the slopes.

(The Madeline Hotel & Residences)

More of a home away from home than a skier’s lodging, the Caldera House has become an ideal place to rest from an adventurous day of skiing the slopes of Jackson Hole, with it being placed nearby the mountain’s tram. Located within scenic national parks, this recently added skier’s hotspot offers its guest eight massive suites and a number of amenities that would rival that of a five-star hotel. The concierge will also promptly provide guests with offerings of tailor-made experiences, which can be added to their daily itinerary.

(Caldera House)

Last, but certainly not least, on this skiing adventure by VistaJet is the Collection’s L’Empyrée 1850, which is a 250 square metre duplex penthouse apartment situated in the centre of Courchevel. This skiing retreat in the form of a penthouse lays at the corner of the tree-lined Bellecôte piste, which is around a minute long walk from the hotel’s bars, restaurants, spa, and retail outlets.

Images Courtesy of: VistaJet.com

Why not work from Anguilla’s Zemi Beach House?

With Anguilla reopening hotels and resorts as of November 1^st, why not seize the opportunity to work from an Island paradise for the next year? According to CNN, “Anguilla has launched a program allowing remote workers to spend three months to a year on the island.” One resort capitalizing on this development is Zemi Beach House. The award winning resort will be offering a “home away from home” from December 14^th.

Renowned for exceptional service and a prime location in Shoal Bay on Anguilla’s North Eastern coast, Zemi Beach House allows guests to experience endless beachfront activities all while immersing themselves in native Taino History and Traditions. With 6 oceanfront acres, the resort offers a selection of rooms and suites, our favorite being the three bedroom Penthouse Suite. With over 1,500 square feet of living space and the option to connect a 4^th bedroom, the Penthouse is a perfect choice for a family looking to enjoy an extended escape.

Dining options at Zemi Beach are also rather unique and plentiful, with options that range from restaurants serving traditional island cuisine to a Rhum Room. 20 Knots is the name of Zemi Beach House’s casual beachfront restaurant; the venue is characterized by its alfresco seating and mix of Latin American and Caribbean menu items. However, for a super chic after dinner experience, we suggest you visit the Bohio Bar & Lounge named for its hut fashioned after those used by the native Taino people.

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Amenities on the property may truly be the resort’s defining highlight. The spa features a range of treatments, including holistic therapies inspired by Thai Rituals; even the treatment room is housed within a 300 year old Thai house. The resort even claims to offer the island’s only hammam. From water sports and tennis to rum tastings and three swimming pools, the resort leaves little to be desired.

Images provided courtesy of Quinn PR

AKA Launches an Urban Holiday Package

Considering out of the ordinary holiday travel ideas? With Travelocity reporting that 43% of travelers plan to stay at a hotel or short-term rental this holiday season, AKA, renowned for their collection of furnished short term residences, is launching the Holiday Traditions Package. The package is ideal for families to come together in a serviced residence with extensive opportunities for customization. The Holiday Traditions Package, which runs from Nov 20^th through just past New Year’s, includes two or more suites with options for a full floor residence at some select locations.

With a focus on “privacy, cleanliness and personal space”, AKA is offering perks such as curated holiday shopping services, the ability to privately book a cinema (at select locations), and a champagne for New Year’s Eve residents. For many of AKA’s unique perks, spaces have been redefined from conference rooms to dining rooms, lounges to family portrait studios, and cinemas as “large living rooms to revel in old holiday classics or even the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.”

From multiple suites to full floor Penthouses and Townhomes, residences at AKA are unique in their option for fully stocked gourmet kitchens and ultra-high standards of cleanliness not offered by most luxury hotels. The Holiday Traditions Package is available at AKA Central Park, AKA Times Square, and AKA Sutton Place in New York City; AKA Beverly Hills, AKA West Hollywood; AKA Rittenhouse Square and AKA University City in Philadelphia; AKA White House in Washington DC; and AKA Marylebone in London.

Images courtesy of Quinn PR

Resorts & Member’s Only Clubs Inspire Luxury Home Sales

As Luxury Real Estate sales continue to surge, resorts and exclusive Private Member’s Only clubs are inspiring second home investments around the world. Resorts and Clubs, such as Grace Bay Club in the Turks & Caicos, Exclusive Resorts spread across the globe, and Mint House in the U.S., are enjoying increased popularity despite extensive travel restrictions as a result of the pandemic. Some of these organizations are even enjoying occupancy rates of over 95% this season. One reason for the increased demand seems to stem from the ability of individuals to work remotely and enjoy residing in their very own paradise away from high-priced urban settings. In a recent interview with Mansion Global, Stephen Moroukian, head of product and proposition for Barclays Private Bank, shared “We see more of our clients looking at the French Riviera and thinking about long term requirements, being able to work remotely.”

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Image Credit: Grace Bay Resorts

In the Caribbean Island nation of the Turks & Caicos, some frequent visitors of the five-star Grace Bay Club have acquired residences at the incredibly luxurious Rock House resort to meet the needs of their regular visits to the island. According to Grace Bay Resorts, American and Canadian buyers were attracted to the island by “sunny weather, direct flights from the U.S. and Canada, and pristine beaches.” Highlights of the Rock House residences include panoramic ocean views, 600 feet of ocean frontage, and high-end construction materials that highlight the property’s understated design aesthetic.

With 75 locations around the globe, Exclusive Resorts is renowned for their vast array of sophisticated offerings of both residences and experiences in places like Kyoto, Marrakech, and St Barth’s. As a particularly noteworthy example of this second home buying trend, since 2017 Exclusive Resorts has witnessed five members acquire second homes in close proximity to club locations in “Cabo, Mexico; Scottsdale, AZ; Telluride, CO; Lake Tahoe, CA and Real del Mar, Mexico.” A similar phenomenon has been occurring in both California as well as the French Riviera, where members of exclusive golf clubs and yacht clubs have been seeking to establish permanent foot holds in places like Pebble Beach and Cannes by buying up prime properties.

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Image Credit: Mint House

Whereas Exclusive Resorts’ focus is on showcasing unique and exotic locales through multi-million dollar homes, Mint House is renowned for their collection of residential apartment complexes. A stay at Mint House boasts the amenities of a hotel combined with the conveniences of a home away from home. For those who travel to Miami, Philadelphia, or Nashville for work and stay for extended periods, Mint House is a great solution before you’re ready to commit to your next urban property purchase. Flexible lease structures, multiple bedrooms, and work spaces make Mint House a perfect temporary home for the business traveler.

For those who seek to find the perfect locale for their second, third, or fourth home, few options compare to investing in a multi-location private club membership to be introduced to and become intimately acquainted with a particular destination. Although products like VistaJet’s Private World and Richard Branson’s collection of luxury properties offer similar travel opportunities, few compare in convenience, depth and breadth of the offering by Exclusive Resorts. The vast majority of residences in the Exclusive Resort collection is owned by the club and seeks to maintain an atmosphere that combines the best of private luxury property rental and five-star hotel services. Most of all, with 90% of members having been invited by an existing member to join, Exclusive Resorts has fostered a community of like-minded individuals to create the ultimate club atmosphere.

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Image Credit: Exclusive Resorts

Unique to many of these clubs are services like The Club app, a mobile application developed by Exclusive Resorts in partnership with Bottle Rocket, a pioneer in digital experiences. Through products like this application members can connect with “service teams, plan future vacations, and enter personal travel preferences so every trip can be uniquely tailored to the Member.” Despite the challenges in travel due to the ongoing pandemic, there have been few better times to join an exclusive travel network and seek out the next gem in your luxury real estate portfolio.

Featured Image Courtesy of: Exclusive Resorts