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Brazil is an irresistible and complex country, a melting
pot of cultures and language—Portuguese being a particularly
challenging one to grasp. That is why we would not consider a trip
there without consulting the experts at VIP
Tour Group. President
Mike Eiseman has made it his business to understand the nuances and
subtleties of Brazil and its attractions—Carnival, new year’s
eve, samba, soccer, capoeira, cachaca, music, exotic cuisine and
beautiful people, not to mention its beaches, rivers, canyons, rain
forests, jungles and waterfalls. Mike and his team know cultural
Brazil, romantic Brazil and eco-adventure Brazil like no other company
that we know of and their insightful packages to Salvador, Paraty,
Buzios, Angra, Etnia, Nannai, Txai, Ponta dos Ganchos and Pantanal are superb for both value and excellence. VIP Brazil can take you
fishing in the Amazon from a luxury yacht with a private chef or
secure the best private island getaways and yachts in Brazil’s
chic Mediterranean-like areas. Want to rent an exclusive villa in
Trancoso or Buzios? Mike’s
your man. Enjoy a culinary tour of Brazil’s best kitchens?
Samba lessons? Call VIP Tour Group. Night life? They know all the
best clubs and can get you in. Need reservations for Carnival? Here
is the resource. Mike knows all the great hotels and hoteliers in
Brazil and can assure the best accommodations. His enthusiastic guides
are top notch, with connections that allow travelers privileged looks
into places no other company can offer. Brazil is a very big country;
local knowledge is the most valuable commodity you can have here.
If you are planning a honeymoon or just want to see the best of Brazil
in a very special way for the first or even the tenth time, call
(800) 772-9188 or visit www.vipbrazil.com. Mike is also a reliable
expert on Argentina, serving as ENTREE’s go-to expert in both
Brazil and Argentina, as well as Traveler Overseas
Magazine’s
highly respected Man of Influence in these countries, www.traveleroverseas.com.
Check out his site, www.viptourargentina.com.
By traveling with Poland
Culinary Vacations, one can be sure that
a Polish experience will be culturally rich, casually elegant, and
truly unique. This company targets specially selected regions of
Poland, teaching guests about the roots of regional fare and exploring
how modern chefs are reinventing traditional dishes with contemporary
cuisine ideals. Their world-class vacations enable you to indulge
your foodie side with hands-on and demonstration-style cooking lessons
and trips to local markets, farms, and festivals. Along the way there
are also visits with Polish bakers, farmers, shop owners, and chefs
to learn the secrets—and collect the recipes-of this outstanding
culinary culture. Between gastronomic pursuits, including vodka and
beer tastings, guests can take in art, architecture, and even sights
on the UNESCO World Heritage List. To ensure relaxing and rejuvenation
each evening, stays are booked in comfortable, chic accommodations
ranging from charming hotels to genuine castles and palaces. The
enchanting Malgorzata (Sarna) Rose, a native of Poland, now living
in Montana with her American husband, personally designs each trip.
Call toll free (888) 703-8130 or visit them online at www.polandculinaryvacations.com to book a memorable culinary vacation. Space is now available for
trips running July 27-August 2 and August 10-August 16.
We have fallen under the spell of the beautiful Caribbean island
of Grenada, thanks to spectacular entrepreneur Peter
de Savary, the
legendary visionary who gave the world the magical St.
James’s
Clubs, Bovey Castle, and Skibo Castle. It isn’t often that
one man can impact the destiny of a country, but Mr. de Savary is
well on the way in warm and charming Grenada. This time he’s
laid aside his Savile Row suits and Scottish tweeds in favor of white
Caribbean linens and espadrilles and set out to transform this lovely
little spice island with strong French and British influences into
another St. Bart’s—or even better. Grenada is a sailor’s
paradise, a place for adventure, a quiet oasis blessed by calm azure
waters, soft empty beaches, contented people, and very few tourists.
Grenada is what Barbados was 50 years ago—filled with dramatic
natural resources and willing gracious Grenadians. Tourism is a recent
phenomenon with only 1500 hotel rooms currently on the island. As
we said, few men have the opportunity in their lifetime to help shape
a nation, but de Savary is intent on just this. Learning to sail
as a child on Grenada, de Savary never lost his love for the island’s
green mountains, sub tropical rainforests, plantations, waterfalls,
golden sands, and enchanting people. Besides his brilliant vision
and driving dynamism, and always being accompanied by his little
dog, Louis, and a Montecristo cigar, de Savary—like his countryman
Richard Branson—is a man of innovative action. On Grenada,
he has already transformed Mount Cinnamon Hotel into a cool, laid-back,
fun, boutique oasis with white-washed villas, stunning ocean views,
Savvys, a fine restaurant and bar, and an enchanting staff who happily
meet all guests’ demands with a smile. At Cinnamon Hill, there
is first class sailing, diving, snorkeling, spa, a divine private
beach, and secluded pool. All accommodations at Mount Cinnamon are
luxuriously spacious. Suites and villas have airy sitting rooms with
kitchen and breakfast bars and breathtaking views from the outdoor
living areas. Most of the bedrooms also have large balconies and
all provide separate dressing spaces and uniquely styled, adobe-walled
shower rooms. Designed with many thoughtful extras, all accommodation
has laundry facilities, hairdryer, BOSE sound system, cable TV, crisp
linens, and impressive artwork. Do take a look at the website, www.mountcinnamongrenada.com.
The jewel in Mr. de Savary’s Grenada crown is Port Louis, a
$500-million Mediterranean-style marina village with 300 slips for
yachts and boats up to 400 feet. Grenada’s location means that
unlike most destinations, this is a ‘year-round’ getaway,
set outside the seasonal hurricane belt. Its proximity to the Equator
ensures a temperate climate in the early 80’s (23-28 degrees
C), which, with cooling trade winds, offers very comfortable conditions.
It compares especially well with the more northern Caribbean which
can suffer from quite cold and wet weather and is within the hurricane
belt. At Port Louis there will be luxurious residential real estate,
a health spa, and wellness center. A buzzing bar and restaurant is
already the axis of social life on the island. Port Louis rises dramatically
to the south of the charming capital, St. George’s, and is
destined to become one of the world’s most charming and important
lifestyle developments. Visit www.portlouisgrenada.com for more details
on living and investment opportunities there.
What a find we came across in Costa Rica recently. Mead
Brown Costa Rica Vacation Rentals deftly manages a collection of fully-serviced,
handsomely-appointed Costa Rica luxury vacation villas and condos
that provide first-class service tailored for discerning, sophisticated
travelers. Your personalized experience begins at the lavish villas,
elegant estates and posh condominiums located in and around Playa
Herradura, at the world-class destination Los Suenos
Resort & Marina,
Playa Hermosa, Jaco, Quepos and Manuel
Antonio. Costa Rica is not
synonymous with luxury—in fact it’s been more a destination
for those whose idea of adventure includes roughing it. But now people
can have soft adventures by day and fine meals, spa services, golf,
tennis and first-class accommodations by night. Los Suenos Resort & Marina
is a family friendly destination with something for everyone. If
its 200-slip international marina, signature billfish tournament
series, challenging par-72 eco-golf course designed by Ted
Robinson, Jr. and spectacular view properties aren’t enough, find repose
at the private beach club with fountains, extensive free-form pool
and swim-up bar. The four-star Marriott Hotel offers six unique restaurants,
a 600-hundred acre rain forest preserve—like nothing in the
world—tennis court, gymnasium and the Marina
Village, including
an art gallery, cigar shop La Casa del Habano,
Arco Azul Salon and Spa, DVD rentals and Internet café. After “roughing” it
all day, find yourself at the The Terrace Lounge,
Dolce Vita Coffee and Sweets, El Galeon Restaurant and Martini Bar,
Bambu Sushi and Asian Cuisine, Lanterna Ristorante Italiano, or The
Hook Up Bar and Restaurant. If this all seems a bit “big city” stop by
Costa Brava Orchids and Flower Shop, Scotiabank,
Jimmy T’s
Provisions fine foods and meats, Los
Suenos Marine Supply Store,
clothing boutique, and National Car Rental. Los Suenos is truly Central
America’s premier destination resort and marina community.
Mead Brown’s collection includes vacation rentals in the Los
Suenos Resort & Marina communities of Veranda,
Del Mar, Bella Vista, Terraza de Marbella, Montebello, Vista Tres
Bahias and the
Eco-Golf Estates. St. Regis is building its newest resort and residences
adjacent to Los Suenos. But don’t worry, Costa Rica hasn’t
lost its adventure spirit—still a wonderland for world-class
sport fishing (65 world record catches have been landed in Costa
Rican waters), horseback riding, surfing, hiking in more than a dozen
national parks, birding (more than 850 species), zip line canopy
tours, nature walks, five active volcanoes, mountain biking, white
water river rafting (Class I to Class V), swimming, biodiversity,
ecotourism and green travel. Travelers can experience it all. Visit
Mead Brown online at www.meadbrown.com.
While not exactly the new (or probably the next) Buenos
Aires, Medellin, Colombia is edging into a renaissance, brought on by dramatic
drops in the crime that once devastated it. Thanks to an ambitious
plan executed by the current mayor that focuses on programs for its
poorest inhabitants, residents have seen both security and public
life flourish in the last three years. Joining the small but growing
band of northern tourists exploring “The City of Eternal Spring,” ENTREE
descended on a beautiful, temperate valley carved straight from the
fierce jungle. We enjoyed a short stay at Medellin’s simple,
attractively modern Four Points Sheraton, while compadres from Bogotá raved
about the more upscale Intercontinental nearby. We felt perfectly
secure, dallying for hours at the lively Colombia
Provoca food festival
in August. This annual food fest jams with friendly and stunning
upper-class minglers savoring renowned, unique local fruits, various
regional cuisines and delicacies both home-grown and imported. We
also truly treasured a trip through the personal collection that
native son Fernando Botero donated to downtown’s Museo
de Antioquia,
within a park bearing his name and plump statues. Tours through Medellin’s
improving slums by bus, subway, foot and recently introduced MetroCable
were inspiring for the dramatic, hopeful changes within. This city
also displays some very cosmopolitan tastes, especially in the trendy
restaurants and bohemian bars of the exclusive El
Poblado and Parque
Lleras neighborhoods. In El Poblado we enjoyed a wonderful, creative
gourmet meal at Herbario, its low-key, smartly designed lounge torn
straight from the streets of Soho. A wild night drinking aguardiente at Mango’s midget-packed nightclub was tempered in the morning
by a day-trip through the jade mountains of south west Antioquia,
a blessed region strewn with distant waterfalls, heaven-scraping
green cliffs, coffee orchards and traditional paisa villages and
ranches. Slowly drifting down the river after a rustic meal of sausage,
arepa and ajiaco, this slice of the Colombian countryside was as
close to paradise as any we’ve seen. Affordable, agreeable,
eye opening, under-the-radar and full of wonders both Marquezian
and natural, Medellin and the state of Antioquia are treasures for
the intrepid traveler. Herbario, Carrera 43D
10-30, Medellin, (57 4) 311-2537, www.elherbario.com; Sheraton Four
Points, Carrera 43C #6 Sur 100, (57 4) 321-8088; www.fourpoints.com. Our visit would
not have been nearly as smooth without our expert guide, Oscar
Sanchez Gomez at Turixmo, (57 4) 266-2846.
Honduras is not exactly on travelers’ lips at most cocktail
conversations. Usual references are to spectacular water sports,
whale-shark spotting and pristine beaches found in and around the
Bay Islands. ENTREE is pleased to report on an often over-looked
attraction in this delightful part of Central
America—the Mayan ruins in the Copan
Valley. Our readers have maintained an ongoing
curiosity about this Honduras site since our adventure to the Tikal ruins in Guatemala as reported in the July-August 2005 issue. Here
are the details on our recent Honduras adventure: after arriving
in San Pedro Sula (American or Taca
Airlines), head for the small,
picturesque town of Copan Ruinas, located less than a mile from the
site entrance. This quaint fairy tale village with its cobblestone
streets, friendly inhabitants and laid-back charm immediately puts
visitors in a state of total relaxation. After throwing away your
blood pressure medication, check into the classic Hotel
Marina Copan.
Let General Manager Miguel Martinez show you this delightful piece
of history, the only full service hotel in town. If you like a view
of red tile roofs with a mountain back-drop, be sure to request one
of the newly-constructed balcony rooms. For $250 nightly, you can
actually secure the Presidential Suite (be assured, similar digs
in Europe would be north of $2000). Next, head outside the property
to the Luna Jaguar Spa for a soak in natural hot springs and a world-class
massage. The countryside ride is as relaxing and enjoyable as the
destination itself. Returning to the village, stop at Xibalba’s
Cafe-Bar, located one block from the hotel and just steps from the
main square. On any given evening, the town’s movers, shakers,
tourists, dogs and occasional drunks could appear. After a cocktail,
you will be part of the scene in this intimate setting. Vicky, the
young British bartender, also serves as information central. Treat
yourself to the ruins with an English-speaking guide. The ruins are
of particular interest due to elaborate artistic qualities not found
elsewhere. Other experiences not to be missed are the Macaw
Mountain Bird Park and Nature Reserve, Museum on the Square, Enchanted
Wings butterfly garden and a tour of the Finca
Santa Isabel coffee farm.
Though you can stroll the village in 30 minutes, time spent here
seems never enough. This peaceful, crime-free little slice of utopia
constantly reminds us why the Mayans called this valley home for
centuries. For everything you need to know about this adventure and
more: www.mctours-honduras.com, www.hotelmarinacopan.com.
We met Russell Figaredo of ABC
NYC/United Limousine Guided Tours of NYC when we last booked
a limo service from JFK into Manhattan.
He had come highly recommended. There he was, waiting for us as we
entered the baggage area, all dressed up in a proper dark, nicely
tailored sharkskin suit and black hat. Russell grabbed our bags and
off we went to his very polished black Lincoln
Town Car and into
the night. Russell regaled us with stories as we sped through traffic.
He is first-rate company and somewhat of an insider to Gotham’s
secrets. Want to know where the mob hangs out? Or where someone famous
offed themselves? What building used to be on a certain street corner?
Russell has a finely-tuned sense of history and knows all. He will
happily drive you by any and all sights, continually spinning yarns
about the how and why. He has movie tours, architecture and art tours
and just-about-anything tours. But Mr. Figaredo’s biggest strength
is knowing how to get around traffic and being 100% reliable. His
connections are outstanding, too. Hire him for a night out to the
theatre or just to shop around the East Village.
You will have a true gentleman driving you. His rates are reasonable
given his exceptional quality and his cars are spotless. Call him
at (646)
996-2447 or (800) 429-5285 and
check out www.abcnyclimo.com.
Love fresh smoked salmon? A highly respected Santa
Barbara company
called the Santa Barbara Smokehouse (good friends of ours) imports
only the finest fresh Scottish salmon from pristine waters, which
they then slowly smoke over oak and apple logs from the Santa Ynez
Valley to yield a delicate, buttery smoked salmon. This is the smoked
salmon the New York Times Syndicate called “the finest in the
world.” This is a family-owned business, and owner Tim
Brown smokes his salmon in small quantities in a traditional artisinal
manner in a $4-million, state-of-the-art plant to supply some of
the world’s finest hotels and restaurants. Santa Barbara Smokehouse
salmon is thinly sliced and 100% Kosher. It is NEVER frozen. The
family sells a limited amount of their smoked salmon to the public
and ships by overnight delivery. For this reason, they would appreciate
knowing your order for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s
now so that they can serve you with their usual care. Tim is excited
to announce that this holiday season he is introducing a traditionally
smoke-roasted salmon, smoked at a much higher temperature and then
hung by rope in a traditional brick kiln. Santa Barbara Smokehouse
is the only company left in the U.S. that is still using this very
unique approach that results in a salmon that melts in your mouth,
perfect for parties and special dinners. This special side of salmon
comes attractively packaged with the rope left on the side to show
its authenticity. Please note that due to limited availability for
this very special salmon, a week’s notice is required to fulfill
an order at $99.95 a side plus $20 shipping. A regular side of mild
smoked or rich smoked salmon, approximately two pounds, is $69.95
plus $20 overnight shipping. This is the best smoked salmon we have
ever tasted. Call (805) 966-9796 to place an order.
Parting ruby-red beveled glass doors and colossal, Malbec-toned
curtains at Buenos Aires’ outrageously in-vogue Faena
Hotel + Universe is the closest ENTREE has come to sliding down the rabbit
hole to Wonderland. Adjusting our eyes through the dark-lit lobby
of imposing, red-brick columns, magical images from our strangest
steak-induced dreams seemed to thrive in every nook. When discussing
the trendy new energy of Buenos Aires, the Faena ubiquitously comes
in the same breath, a must-see poster-child for the revitalized spirit,
optimism, and non-stop nightlife that is beckoning tourists in legions.
With mega-stars and the super-foxy making second homes by the outdoor
pool, along with a state-of-the-art gym, two fine dining options,
and a very relaxing, service-oriented climate, it was nearly impossible
to tear ourselves away, even to explore the bustling port of surrounding
Puerto Madero. The Faena is fantastic and futuristic, yet still classically
sexy down to the plumbing fixtures, in Philippe
Starck-crafted rooms
that push innovative, functional interiors into the highest stratosphere
of imagination. Breakfasts of medialunas, empanadas, and farm-fresh
eggs were enjoyed at cozy El Mercado, under the watch of Evita, Borges,
and Maradona while the tango-tinged voice of Carlos Gardel soothed,
educating us on Argentina’s national obsessions through a room
packed with cultural gee-gaws. El Bistro restaurant, blinding in
pristine whites, comes ringed with unicorn heads, red Baccarat crystal
and gold-rimmed plates of elegant creativity matched with Argentina’s
best stocked wine cellar. Evenings start and never end at the tastefully
polished Library Lounge, where those who don’t get into the
breath-stealing El Cabaret show and the town’s scorching hot-ticket
nightclub, continue to mingle when not stepping by the pool for more
glimpses of Bono’s speedo. The Faena Universe expands around
Puerto Madero in a unique arts district that CEO Alan
Faena and his
charming, visionary staff are spearheading. Though we never seemed
to awake from the strange and beautiful dream that is the Faena,
we are thoroughly enchanted and await more fancy. Rooms vary from
$500 to $8000 + IVA. Visit www.faenahotelanduniverse.com.
It could well be Southern California’s
best-kept secret: Lake Arrowhead and the recently redone (in tasteful fashion, to the
tune of $18 million) Lake Arrowhead Resort and
Spa. Sequestered at
5,100 feet above sea level, in a distinctive alpine setting among
the tall pines and birch trees on what is called “The Rim of
the World,” this legendary resort—just 2-1/2 hours from
Los Angeles—has long attracted entertainment stars, business
moguls and lovers in search of the solitude of a lazy lakeside village.
Lake Arrowhead harkens back to a simpler, more innocent time when
barbecue grilled on the beach or dock together with moonlit walks
or motorboat rides combined to fill a summer’s evening. Hot
dogs are still on the fire here and kids still ride the carousel,
go fishing and head for the ice cream store for a treat while their
parents promenade around the lake, perhaps shopping in one of the
scores of intriguing shops (our favorite is Wildflowers, a blissful
flower store) that make up the village. The crown jewel of the lake
is the Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa, a soaring, timbered, fireplace-filled
refuge with mountain and lake vistas now managed by Peter
Henry,
whose reputation as the maestro of the Sonoma Mission Inn and the
Cheeca Lodge & Spa assures first-rate hotelkeeping and warm hospitality.
Mr. Henry and his young energetic staff work hard to provide a memorable
experience at this family-friendly (and pet-friendly) resort with
a notable restaurant called BIN189 serving up innovative dishes prepared
by a young, talented chef, Stewart Redhead.
A superb wine cellar is stocked with excellent California and international
wines. The resort’s 162 rooms and 11 suites have been done up in earth
tones accented by buttery leathers, deep soaking tubs and dynamic
Indian prints. The big attraction here is an 11,000-sq.-ft. full
spa, Spa of the Pines, with an array of massages, facials, and body
treatments of extraordinary quality. In addition, there is a complete
workout facility with daily aerobics, Tai Chi, Pilates, yoga and
other fitness classes. The Spa also includes a beauty salon for manicures,
pedicures and hair services. At the Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa
there is much to do: catch-and-release fishing excursions, movies,
star-gazing experiences, hikes, cooking classes, boat rides on the
resort’s comfy pontoon yacht or just lazy days by the pool
or in a hammock. There is even a Love Letters Program supervised
by the resort’s “Love Doctor” to encourage couples
to get closer in touch. And, best of all, this is a place for all
seasons: Big Bear and its ski attractions are just 30 minutes away.
We recommend a visit now to this special spot on clean, crystal-clear
Lake Arrowhead. And if you are planning a business meeting, it is
ideal for small conferences. Nearby golf on a championship course
at the country club is easily arranged. The Lake Arrowhead Resort
and Spa has a laudable green, environmentally-conscious program in
force to preserve its beautiful surroundings. This is a special place
where one’s inner batteries can be recharged while embraced
by nature and where the ever-present spirit of the Serrano Indians—who
once walked this land—can be truly felt. Visit www.laresort.com,
(800) 800-6792.
Argentina has long sat on a far corner of the world beckoning for
global interaction. Those hopes have been answered in spades as Buenos
Aires and the gorgeous open countryside that surrounds it have become
one of the hottest tourist destinations of the last few years. Bridging
the great distance is LAN airlines, without which a voyage to South
America would be inconceivable to us. Experiencing LAN’s elegant
premium business-class service, we get the best benefits of first
and business class blended together at just the right price. After
boarding, ENTREE raises our champagne flutes, selects a movie for
our 15-inch flat screen, puts our chair in full 180-degree recline,
pulls up a down comforter, and next thing we know, we’re touching
down at the airport, ready for a five-dollar steak and a glass of
Malbec. Of course, we make sure our flight attendant wakes us for
a bite from a menu that boasts fantastic wines and sometimes just
to have a chat with the charming and attentive flight attendants
serving us. LAN is one of those amazing carriers with whom flying
for nine hours is part of the fun, and we almost regret the flight
being over so quickly. Every member of the LAN Alliance—LAN
Argentina, LAN Ecuador, LAN Peru and LAN Airlines—is part of
the oneworld Alliance, the leading global alliance giving passengers
access to extraordinary services and benefits, including the ability
to earn and redeem mileage awards on all other oneworld carriers
including LAN’S frequent flyer program, LANPASS, and American
Airlines AAdvantage. Plus, mileage earned on LAN counts towards elite
status qualification, and passengers get access to the 400-plus airport
lounges worldwide offered by the alliance’s airlines for top-tier
members. LAN flies non-stop from New York and Los Angeles to Santiago,
Chile, with continuing service to Argentina and additional Argentinean
destinations. Visit www.lan.com.
Are there many among us who don’t focus on the culinary when
planning an excursion to France, Italy, or Spain? Searching out the
top chefs or the most sought-after tables can reap reward, no doubt—but
for a truly extraordinary experience, one that exceeds the usual
... consider a culinary vacation, a tour where you will shop with
your chef at a local market, cook alongside him or her, enjoy the
delicious product of your labor along with your companions, visit
vineyards for tastings of the best local wine, perhaps see how olives
are pressed into oil, or take an excursion into a medieval walled
city. Making just this sort of “dream come true” experience
a reality is The International Kitchen. Since 1994, Karen
Herbst and her talented team have researched, visited, and experienced every
one of their programs, creating dozens of cooking vacations for your
enjoyment. Recently, we had the exceptional opportunity to visit
a number of locations throughout the regions of Provence. We began
at Hostellerie Berard, in the ancient hilltop village of La
Cadière
d’Azur. We tripped through the extensive garden with Chef
Jean-Francois,
plucking and enjoying the delightful fragrance of fruits and vegetables
that would soon become part of our lunch. Through our learning to
prepare sea urchin and producing our own fromage
blanc sorbet, we
created a spectacular luncheon, enjoyed with glasses of local wine
on the sun-dappled terrace overlooking the garden and hillside. This
IS what dreams are made of. After traveling through gorgeous countryside,
it was on to Chateau de Berne and its Ecole
De Cuisine. This spectacular
spot, located on acres of landscaped property, includes its own orchard
and winery. In our elegant room, we found a chilled bottle of their
sparkling “Wild Pig” Rosé. After a tour of the
winery, we joined Chef Philippe in the kitchen to begin dinner preparation.
After wine and cocktails in the chateau parlor, we happily dined
on our efforts. Then on to the village of Velleron, in the hills
of the Vaucluse, to the incredibly quaint Hostellerie
la Grangette.
Owned by a delightful couple, you will feel like long-lost family.
Chef Brigitte conducted our vegetarian cooking class, which provided
our dinner, while her husband Jean (who had escorted us to the local
market prior to our class) made sure we enjoyed ourselves to the
fullest. In the Luberon area of Provence, we happily found ourselves
at the Relais & Chateaux Abbaye
de Sainte Croix in Salon de Provence.
A morning in the bustling kitchen with chefs Jeremy and Tony provided
specialized training in the art of foie gras preparation that will
surely set your cooking skills in a most unique category. This chic
property encourages the wish to spend contented days on this glorious
hillside. This is but a small sampling of what a culinary vacation
can be. These wonderful trips give an additional dimension and purpose
beyond the ordinary adventure. The International Kitchen has thought
of it all ... you can select an excursion that interlaces walking,
biking, painting, language instruction or even Pilates. It promises
and delivers a unique cultural experience, along with creating lifelong
memories and enduring friendships. Be it lifetime dream or a group
of friends getting together to celebrate a milestone birthday, you
will not be disappointed. Visit www.theinternationalkitchen.com and
prepare to be amazed by the glorious options that await you.
We happily met the ultimate Las Vegas insider recently. Steven
Striker, who is best known simply as “Striker,” is
larger than life, a gentleman dressed in impeccably crafted bespoke
suits who speaks softly but carries a rolodex of connections that
will knock your socks off. Striker’s company, Striker
VIP, Inc., is the pre-eminent concierge service in Las Vegas
built on rock-solid relationships and tailored for a discerning
and demanding clientele. If you want the best seats to the hottest
show, a table at an impossible-to-get-into restaurant, front-of-the-line
treatment at the best club, prime fight tickets, a stretch Hummer
or stealth Mercedes, a bodyguard or just a magnum of rare Romanee
Conti, Striker’s your man. He is subtly
elegant, professional and classy—rare attributes in a town
of noise and brass. We did some checking up on Striker, also known
as the “King of Connections:” all who have used his services,
including the YPO, some Fortune 500 companies and several professional
basketball teams, rate him as total blue-chip and a man of integrity.
No less than Matt Lauer raved about him on The
Today Show. Charming
and totally dedicated to making his clients feel truly special, Striker
is a man who truly cares. He has complete access to all Las Vegas
has to offer and is a very high-touch sort of gent who works on a
very private level. He will work to make your visit to Las Vegas
unforgettable, be you one person or a group. This is a phenomenal
gentleman offering a phenomenal service. Check out www.strikervip.com or call (702)
895-8426. Striker carries three cell phones (and a
pocket full of Cohibas); one cell number is (702)
204-9392.
Our old friend, the British entrepreneur and yachtsman Peter
de Savary, never sits still. First he gave us the glamorous St.
James’s
Clubs. Then came the glorious Carnegie
Club at Skibo Castle and his
delightful Southern Belle, The Cherokee Plantation
in South Carolina,
amongst others, but now he’s being the Brigitte Bardot of the
Caribbean and bringing the world the St. Tropez of Grenada,
Port Louis. De Savary himself admits that this is a real love
affair with the wonderfully unspoiled island. Port Louis is set to
become the ultimate maritime resort, club and village community,
and now read it here first. Spectacularly set just on the outskirts
of Grenada’s
capital, St. George’s, the village and marina enjoy truly exotic
vistas. The port offers residential and commercial ownership and
investment opportunities, which include home-sites, apartments, a
world-class marina, shops, restaurants and hotels. The first villas
and apartments will go on sale in June 2007. These are in an outpost
of Port Louis at Mount Cinnamon, located on the two miles of Grand
Anse Beach, a short drive away from the lively marina. For
those looking for an authentic West Indian plantation, celebrating
Grenada’s
hey-day as the primary spice island, head north to de Savary’s Mount Edgecombe Estate.
Hike around the plantation’s trails;
enjoy a swim hundreds of feet above the Caribbean in what has got
to be one of the most spectacular infinity pools in the world. And
that’s not all . . . 2008 will see the launch of Grenada’s
first eco-spa at Tufton Hall, the fully
restored ancient plantation home set in the heart of the tropical
rain forest. For sailors, this has got to be a must. Well known as
the America’s Cup Challenger,
de Savary’s marina is set to become the chic, international
gateway to the stunning Grenadines, with some of the most compelling
dive sites as well as pristine reefs and islands to explore. For
more information, telephone 1-473-439-0000 or visit www.portlouisgrenada.com;
e-mail info@portlouisgrenada.com. Quote ENTREE to receive your complimentary
copy of Grenada Life Magazine.
Just when we couldn’t face another seaside “getaway” assaulted
by poolside techno music, tank-topped, baseball-capped frat boys
in the dining room and screaming brats escaped from a Kid’s
Klub, our eyes were opened to Costa Rica’s private
paradise: Cabo Velas. Here, we choose
the guest list ourselves. Four breezy, tropically elegant, pastel-colored
ranchos can accommodate up to 16 friends, family or members of your
admiring entourage. Cabo Velas is about an hour’s drive on
challenging roads from the Liberia International Airport. However,
we prefer to arrive via private charter, thanks to the property’s
own airstrip. Once settled in, we spent a week swimming and playing
on five private beaches of snow-white sand and galloped polite horses
through 1700 acres of ranchland, filled with abundant wildlife, lagoons,
mangrove estuaries and tropical fruit groves. Cabo Velas has a superb,
caring staff who arranged deep sea fishing and a sunset picnic overlooking
miles of coastline. They can also snag a tee time at a championship
golf course nearby, visits to a great surf spot and excursions to
local villages. A professional botanist is standing by to lead nature
tours, while white-water rafting and hot springs are also close by.
Meals are special at Cabo Velas, with fresh and healthy cuisine focused
on fruits and vegetables grown on the property, fresh fish and locally
farmed beef. Falling asleep to the sounds of crickets and crashing
surf, we experienced that feeling we seek so often but rarely find—being
in a perfect place in harmony with nature and, perhaps more importantly,
with those whom we want to be there. Cabo Velas is a Sanctuare property,
www.sanctuare.com, (866) 612-5980. Such
a paradise does not come cheaply: the rate, including all meals,
libations, transfers and excursions, for 16 guests for four nights,
is $47,120.
ENTREE subscribers are constantly asking our staff members about
travel to Egypt in light of the present Middle East hostilities.
In order to solve this dilemma and armed with our readers’ queries
fresh in our minds, we decided to revisit this fascinating destination.
For the record, Egypt has generally enjoyed a “tourist-friendly” reputation,
and Cairo has consistently been labeled one of the safest cities
in the world. We are most pleased to report that there has probably
never been a better time to visit this land of ancient wonders. As
far as we are concerned, Egypt has gotten a “bad rap” of
late due mainly to problems in neighboring countries. We found a
remarkably peaceful society with tourist security a top priority
at all locations. Even our motor trek across the desert from Hurghada to Luxor seemed almost unnecessarily secure. Our journey included
Cairo, Giza, the Mediterranean city of Alexandria and Hurghada on
the Red Sea. The balance of our agenda was spent cruising the Nile between Luxor and Aswan (150 miles). There really are no words to
describe the remains of this ancient civilization along the banks
of this storied river dating from 3,000 B.C. The absolute highlight
of our experience was cruising and exploring the Nile
Valley with
Abercrombie and Kent aboard the luxury Sunboat
IV, a floating 5-star
piece of paradise. The luxe boat includes pool, fitness center, lounge
decks, Internet, satellite TV, premium Egyptian wines and fine cuisine.
Best of all, there were only 21 inhabitants to share these goodies.
The 150-mile journey on this small, yacht-like vessel provided a
rare combination of exploration and total relaxation. Our guide,
Hesham Mansour, a 22-year veteran with A&K, is possibly the finest
Egyptologist in the country. No hieroglyphic was left unexplained
and his enthusiastic delivery will always last in our memory bank.
A&K can also arrange complete tours tailor-made to individual
preferences. Unless you have traveled to Cairo in the past, a stop
at the Egyptian Museum is imperative. It is the world’s largest,
and our must-see recommendations include the following: Tutankhamun
Galleries, Royal Mummy Room and the mummified animals in rooms 53
and 54. While in Cairo, our hotel choices are the Cairo
Grand Hyatt close to the museum, or Le
Meridien, across from the fabulous pyramids
in Giza. An excellent guide for this area is Mohamed
Hegazey of the
Egyptian Tourist Authority. For those who have experienced Cairo
and want to head straight for the Nile, here is a suggestion: travel
from almost any European capital to one of the resort cities on the
Red Sea-Sharm el-Sheikh or Hurghada. After two or three days relaxing
and shaking off jet lag next to this glorious body of water, head
for the Nile Valley and discover the ancient attractions with renewed
energy. Abercrombiekent.com, (800) 544-7016;
Hesham Mansour, heshammans@hotmail.com; Mohamed Hegazey, mohamedhegazey@hotmail.com.
Any devotee of the late Jorge
Luis Borges, Argentina’s great
lyrical poet, will surely have harbored deep longings to visit Buenos
Aires, that lively and passionate city of tango, gauchos and grass-fed
beef. But put aside those clichés—Buenos Aires has a
unique European grace and a diverting light-hearted Latin style all
its own. Plus you will find it quite affordable due to the peso’s
devaluation. The best address you could possibly find there is the
new Palacio Duhau-Park Hyatt, a hotel of historic splendor that raises
hospitality in the “Paris of South America” to its highest
level. Located in the fashionable Recoleta shopping and residential
district, this hotel seamlessly integrates the old time glamour of
B.A. with 21st century innovative design and state-of-the-art technology.
The handsomely restored Palacio Duhau itself, built in 1934 by French
architect Leon Dourge, is one of the few remaining palaces representing
the city’s exclusive Portena aristocracy. Carefully integrated
into this grand palace is a new building called Posadas that reflects
the sleek future of Buenos Aires. An underground walkway and gallery
showcasing local and international artists plus extensive blooming,
fragrant gardens connect the two buildings. Rates for the 165 guestrooms
and suites start at $410 a night. Twenty three accommodations, including
eight suites, are in the Palace. These are our favorites. All rooms
and suites have high-speed Internet and stylish, intimate décor.
That is only the beginning. The wood-paneled Bar in the Palace has
a 300-year old Normandy oak bar, a wood-burning fireplace, comfy
brown leather wingback chairs and a terrace overlooking the gardens.
The Galleria is classic with high ceilings, crystal chandeliers,
original wood-carved doors and an exquisite star-patterned marble
floor. Adjacent is the Library for light refreshments, reading or
working. Restaurants include Les Salons with fireplace, the highest
of ceilings and an original painted boiserie. Here is the perfect
spot for tea, breakfast or light snacks. Enter the main restaurant
through the Wine Library and prepare for extraordinary cuisine and
the finest Argentinian Malbec wines. We love Gioa for modern Italian
cooking and the best views of the palacio and gardens from the terraces.
Not content with this perfection, the hotel has a unique cheese room
offering more than 45 different varieties of Argentine cheese served
by Maitre Fromagere Maria, who also brings tasty jams and chutneys
to pair with the fromages. The Palacio Duhau-Park Hyatt has an 8000-sq.
ft. spa with an 82-foot indoor heated pool and treatment rooms for
massage, etc. plus a fully-equipped gymnasium. ENTREE has never seen
such old world charm and grace married to such up-to-date bells and
whistles. And there is an educated, good looking crisply dressed
staff that delivers gracious service on a very personal scale. Who
is in charge of all this beauty, refinement and great hotelkeeping?
A handsome gentleman named Christophe Lorvo, who speaks all languages
and cuts a dashing swath through the hotel. Nothing misses his eagle
eyes. He is like a symphony conductor, orchestrating everything perfectly
for contented, discerning guests who include royalty, diplomats,
celebrities and well-heeled travelers. Visit www.buenosaires.park.hyatt.com.
We raise our Champagne glass in a hearty toast
to Eos
Airlines,
currently celebrating their first anniversary of elevating the dismal
state of flying by bringing elegance, service and style back to air
travel. Let’s face it, why shouldn’t the same standards
apply to airlines that we demand from our hotels? Well, Eos is very
good news, indeed, an airline in a class by themselves. Eos has as
its goal to redefine the flying experience and make it memorable
and enjoyable again. We are happy to say they succeed admirably.
Eos is all you could ask for: complimentary limo service (at qualifying
fares) from your home or office to the airport (you may arrive 45
minutes prior to departure with no questions asked), uniformed, polite
staff to greet your car and escort you to the check-in desk, rapid,
expedited check-in by caring employees, well-appointed lounges (Emirates at
JFK) and happy, escorted service right to the plane moments before
take off. Things only get better once onboard: Eos has carefully
rethought the way space can be allocated inside an aircraft, providing
a massive 21 square feet for each passenger. A typical 757 has more
than 200 seats. On Eos, there are just 48 seats. And what seats—the
Eos seat is more like a suite with a flat 78-inch bed, your choice
of Tempur-Pedic foam or down full-size
pillows, cashmere blanket or duvet and high-quality linens. There
is a thoughtful extra seat for visitors, oodles of extra room for
additional baggage and a clear path to the aisle. Eos dining is beyond
very special. The superbly trained attendants (carefully selected
from leading hospitality and service industries and educated at the Culinary
Institute of America)
serve dinner in three separate courses if you want to dine leisurely.
Or there is an express service for those who desire a light and quick
meal. Many passengers elect to have a full-course meal with a fine
wine at the lounge before boarding. Wines, spirits and entrees are
of haute cuisine quality. The handsome in-flight amenity kit, and
this is one to keep and reuse, is by L’Occitaine.
Bose QuietComfort Acoustic Noise Canceling headsets are provided
and the selection of first-run films, classic television, music and
video games is extensive. Eos has redefined every element of flying
and that means they treat their clients with care as guests and not
just passengers. On arrival at London’s Stansted,
there are warm smiles of greeting from the Eos staff on the ground,
expedited treatment at customs and immigration and—voila—baggage
delivered as you reach the carousel. A limousine whisks you to your
destination. This is rewarding travel, too. Eos has a generous and
innovative rewards program redeemable for travel on Eos and other
airlines, golf, spas, high-end retailers and fine hotels. All Eos
guests have access to
Quintessentially, a pre- and post-flight
concierge service, acknowledged as one of the best in the world.
We all know little things make a big difference when you fly. Eos
founder David
Spurlock, formerly
Director of Strategy at British Airways, conceived this airline for
those in search of a premium experience much like they would receive
on a private jet. If it is rest, total comfort and ultimate care
in intoxicating luxury with excellent food and drink you seek when
you fly (but without unnecessary gilt and useless trappings), book
now with Eos. Best of all, Eos fares are significantly lower than
Business Class prices on traditional carriers. Eos flys twice daily
to and from JFK and to and from convenient Stansted Airport, London.
Visit www.eosairlines.com or call (888)
357-3677.
October 2006
London is a superb hotel city, filled with places to stay that fit
all pocketbooks and tastes. We have always been drawn to the small,
elegant and detail-oriented hotel and we found all that and more
at The Egerton House Hotel in the heart of Knightsbridge. Just a
short walk from Harrods, here is a pleasantly secluded refuge of
charm and character overlooking two very pretty tree-lined garden
squares. Look for adjoining handsome red brick period townhouses
with topiary boxwood and blossoms in the windows. A roaring fire
welcomes guests in the drawing room on cool days. The Egerton has
been extensively restored and totally refurbished by the present
owners, Red Carnation, and they have done their usual signature and
extraordinary job of creating a highly refined residential atmosphere
using interesting antiques, Brussels weave carpets, Savoir beds,
fine museum-quality art and fabrics of the finest provenance. Here
you will find a wonderful, eclectic yet classical setting: original
old prints from the Illustrated London News, engravings and signed
lithographs (Braque and Picasso among them) alongside of masterful
paintings (one of parrots by Kim Brooks), an 18th-century clock hung
by a sunburst of a mirror. The mix of furniture styles and periods
from Biedermeier to Victoria adds tons of character. Orchids and
masses of fragrant fresh flowers are everywhere. The result is a
true jewel box. The hotel has an aura of understated elegance and
discreet good taste with 30 air-conditioned bedrooms on four floors,
all served by a small elevator. Each room is fully equipped, exacting
international high-tech standards with touches like flat- screen
TVs, Nano iPods and WiFi throughout. A small wood-paneled bar by
renowned Hallidays with whimsical caricatures by JAK and Sems and
staffed by one of London’s most beloved bartenders, Antonio,
serves light meals of quality. Top cuisine is served daily in a most
attractive dining room where one can be served a traditional English
or nutritious health breakfast. A solarium, sauna, Jacuzzi, and pool
await the more energetic. Arrangements on a complimentary basis can
be made at a nearby gym and health club, one of London’s best.
This jewel of a hotel has it all. General Manager Sandra
Anido keeps
it all ticking like a fine Patek Philippe aided by a staff that is
dedicated to satisfying each and every guest who walks through these
welcoming doors. A winner of ENTREE’s Golden E of Excellence
Award and a member of Preferred Boutique Hotels. Visit www.egertonhousehotel.com.
They have a sleek Bentley standing by for guests and invaluable personal
shopping contacts.
September 2006
There is something totally magical and wondrous about finding a place
of great style, elegance, comfort and beauty in a remote corner of
the world. We first felt that way when we came upon the one-and-only
Explora Lodge in Patagonia. We found another oasis of luxury in a
remote part of Argentina near the Brazil and Paraguay borders, hard
by the majestic, thundering Iguazú Falls. The all-suite Iguazú Grand
Hotel Resort & Casino is set in a majestic natural location and
offers a first class spa, South America’s most important and
glamorous casino, warm hospitality and pampering indulgence. One
can have it all here and in an enchanting setting where you’d
least expect it. Family-owned and operated with passion, here is
a resort distinguished by its classic architecture and a museum-quality
art collection where guests are spoiled by a staff of smiling, multi-lingual
personnel. Proud of its glamorous casino, a business center, two
fine restaurants, the Paradise Spa (with massage, wraps, masks and
baths), a fully equipped state-of-the-art health club (with professional
trainers) overlooking the tropical gardens, three clay tennis courts
(lit at night), and three swimming pools (one heated), the resort’s
jungle-meets-cosmopolitan atmosphere is very hard to leave. The Iguazú Grand
presents diverse evening entertainment such as musicals, live tango
dances and other performances at the Le Bistro
Theater. Playland,
the resort’s unique recreation center for children, assures
parents that the young ones will be entertained and supervised in
a happy and safe environment with outdoor activities such as volleyball,
games and art programs. Golfers have access to a fine golf club just
minutes away. In addition to the attractions within the resort, the
breathtaking waterfalls are only ten minutes away. A day trip to
the falls will complete your unforgettable experience at the Iguazú Grand
Hotel. There are 107 very spacious and attractively decorated suites.
Visit www.casinoiguazu.com, a member of Leading
Small Hotels of the World. This is the only place to stay when you visit Iguazú,
a true paradise on earth.
July-August 2006
True virtuosity in hotelkeeping is very rare. Like a perfect symphony,
it manages to harmoniously combine so many elements into one effortlessly.
Thank goodness for Summer Lodge in beautiful Dorset, a pleasant three-hour
drive from London. Here is a symphony of the most extraordinary kind.
We discovered this idyllic spot last month and couldn’t wait
to tell you about it. Imagine, first of all, England’s most
beautiful countryside. No less a writer than Thomas Hardy, who lived
here and loved it, extolled the virtues of the green Dorset hills,
the Jurassic cliffs and coast, and the glistening sea in masterpieces
like TESS of the d’URBERVILLES. And here, in Summer Lodge,
is another Wessex masterpiece. Then there is the setting for Summer
Lodge: unspoiled countryside, jet d’eau, tumbling waterfalls,
fragrant fruit trees, magical footpaths, sculptures, ancient stone
walls, Japanese bridge, lily pond, and tranquil kitchen garden. Songbirds
serenade morning and night. Set in the tiny, picturesque village
of Evershot, Summer Lodge is actually a series of carriage houses
and handsome slate-roofed Georgian townhouses that hold just 26 rooms.
And what rooms! Heavenly decorated with miles of beautiful cottons,
linens, silks, soft flannels, priceless antiques and hand made custom
designed Brussels weave carpets. For those wanting ultimate privacy,
there is a charming cottage on the prettiest street in town with
a walled garden and a Jacuzzi. But we love the rooms in the Lodge,
especially spacious Number 1, with high ceilings, large windows that
invite the soft Dorset sun, fireplace, two comfortable baths and
a four-poster bed that discreetly hides a flat-screen television.
The decor at Summer Lodge is some of the most sophisticated in the
world with rare paintings, prints and objects on the walls, luxurious
linens, considerate placement of precious tables and chairs just
as an elegant-yet-very-stylish country Marchioness might have, and
fragrant fresh flowers everywhere. Total comfort and ultimate calm
have been the objective, and the owners have succeeded brilliantly.
All of this would make for the best in English country living, only
Summer Lodge goes further with a staff of caring young people that
appears and disappears like magic, catering to every wish—no,
seemingly anticipating every guest’s wish. Need an extra down
pillow or pashmina shawl? They have it. Want to play croquet? They
will fetch the mallets. Need a partner for tennis? One will happily
play with you on Summer Lodge’s court. Swimming pool? Right
this way. Relaxing and rejuvenating spa services are organized in
a moment at the lovely spa on the property. The dapper and aristocratic
Charles Lotter is General Manager here and he orchestrates all with
exacting yet relaxed standards of superb quality. Cuisine in the
British shires has long been hit-and-miss. Mostly miss. Such is the
cost of maintaining a serious restaurant in the English countryside.
Summer Lodge leads the way with a decided culinary upturn in the
form of Steven Titman, an accomplished chef who leads a team totally
dedicated to fine dining. Concentrating on locally-grown produce
enhanced by herbs from Summer Lodge’s garden, he manages to
create haute cuisine of exquisite refinement yet of straightforward
direction. There is no precociousness here, simply the best meats,
chicken, fish and vegetables carefully prepared with love. The cooking
has been acclaimed by critics from all over the world. Supporting
Chef Steven is a cadre of bright, enthusiastic and professional sommeliers,
waiters and barmen who are eager to please in a dining room of extraordinary
beauty. Prominent among them is super-knowledgeable Master Sommelier
Eric Zwiebel, who will go deep into Summer Lodge’s caves to
find you Romanee Conti or perhaps a special bottle of South
African Bouchard Finlayson. All wines at all price levels are there at Summer
Lodge. Zwiebel’s understudy, Ben, has an enchanting way about
him, and his knowledge of wines is also impressive. One could happily
occupy themselves just lazing on the manicured grass at Summer Lodge
in a chaise lounge, or pulling on the Wellingtons they have so thoughtfully
provided for guests for a hike, but many things await outside the
walls of this country house. Dorset is steeped in history: there
is Sherborne Castle and Athelhampton
House, plus antique shops, galleries,
museums, and restaurants galore to visit. But we prefer not to leave
the cossetting of Summer Lodge and their fine people. There is a
fine afternoon tea with delicious scones and clotted cream in the
afternoon, perhaps it’s time to plan a picnic, maybe we’ll
do some watercolors in the conservatory, or simply walk down the
main street to the historic Acorn Inn, for a cold beer and a salmon
sandwich. Or drop in on the enchanting country shop on the main street,
and peruse its wonderful selection of speciality foods, wines, cards
and gifts. With its spectacular setting, elegant restaurant, breathtaking
rooms, restorative spa and so many local attractions, this is a place
you must experience. We have known few places on this planet where
all is in perfect harmony, where man and nature join in an embrace
to produce the very best experience that makes you truly love life.
This is one of those places. They have perfected the art of exceptional
hospitality here at Summer Lodge and you will be welcomed as family.
A proud member of Relais & Chateaux, visit www.summerlodgehotel.com.
May-June 2006
Sox appeal:
why do so many otherwise smartly dressed men fall victim to sartorial
amnesia when it comes to that key space between the bottom of their
trousers and the top of the shoes? We’re talking
socks here and how few gents pay proper attention to them. Maybe
it’s because there is a dearth of original, well-designed,
quality-made chaussettes out there. So let’s pop a bottle of
Champagne because a gentleman named Vivek Nagrani has
come to the rescue. Nagrani, who manages to resemble both Adrian
Brody and Andy Garcia at the same time, is a very talented 33-year-old
Indian-born, American-raised gentleman with exquisite taste. His
fanciful line of power (and powerful) socks are made by legendary
artisans in France and Italy. They are bright and colorful and wildly
patterned and now considered collector’s items by the cognoscenti.
You will not find them everywhere—only in the best stores like Fred
Segal and Stanley Korshak. We
must warn you, not every man can wear them. You’ve got to be
secure about your fashion sense. After all, pistachio and salmon
are not everyone’s colors. But, believe
us, they are heaven on the feet and at $30 a pair or $150 a dozen,
a bargain, sort of little artworks for the feet. One design even
wound up at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Los
Angeles. Nagrani’s
socks are destined to be the best-dressed insider’s secret
like Lobb shoes and Charvet ties. These socks go so well with bespoke
suits or jeans, and, rest assured, there are never more than 312
pairs made per design. To appreciate those who love these socks,
Nagrani has founded his very own 21 Club.
He celebrates your 21st pair, when added to your wardrobe, by welcoming
you to an esteemed group of gentlemen who become privy to his future
works. These members define future collections one sock at a time,
as they are invited to experience prototypes and give their suggestions.
Check out Nagrani’s
company, Ovadafut, on the web at www.vknagrani.com,
and when next getting dressed, never forget what the great architect
Mies van der Rohe said: “God is in the details.”
April 2006
A quick getaway to Puerto Vallarta was recently in order
to restore our spirits, and we found a shining jewel in Hacienda
San Angel. This small colonial-style hotel is illustrative of what
the beauty of Mexico means to us when we dream of its possibilities.
A member of the prestigious Hoteles Boutique
de Mexico, we can highly
recommend Hacienda San Angel as the best and most stylish place to
stay in the area. Located above the soaring grace of the Cathedral
of Guadalupe, the Hacienda transports visitors to a time of colonial
elegance that is rarely seen today. With stunning terraced gardens,
breathtaking ocean and city views and a staff that deeply cares,
here are five creatively restored villas with fourteen superb suites
and bedrooms exquisitely filled with museum quality 18th- and 19th-century
oil paintings, hand-carved antique furnishings, tapestries, statuary,
and colorful painted tile work. Yet, the Hacienda is very up-to-date
with state-of-the-art purified tap water, remote-controlled air-conditioning,
cable television, DVD, and in-suite phone with complimentary local
calls. Guests have access to three heated swimming pools and an oversize
Jacuzzi on the rooftop sun deck with stunning views of Banderas Bay,
a perfect spot to watch the sunset. The tranquility here makes it
easy to forget that you are just a few minutes’ stroll from
downtown Puerto Vallarta, with its beaches, shopping and lively nightlife.
Built around a romantically landscaped central courtyard with flowing
fountains, winding paths and fragrant, blooming tropical flowers,
the Hacienda has happy and polite employees that treat their visitors
as if they were honored guests in a wealthy landowner’s private
home. Indeed, the core villa on the property was a Valentine’s
Day gift from Richard Burton to his wife and has since evolved carefully
into an enchanting maze of villas, suites, gardens, dining rooms,
terraces and private areas perfect for relaxing and reflecting. The
chefs here are an inspired bunch, and the Hacienda boasts a menu
of full à la carte lunches and dinners. The Hacienda San Angel
has some of the softest imported bed linens we’ve ever slept
in and all-natural bath amenities. The charming owner Janice
Chatterton deserves spirited applause for her fine taste and hard work in turning
the Hacienda into Puerto Vallarta’s loveliest address. The
delightful concierge Rocio can assist arranging tour services and
excursions. We loved the gratis high-speed Internet access and public
phone to make complimentary calls to the U.S. Reservations for Hacienda
San Angel may be made at www.haciendasanangel.com or by emailing
info@haciendasanangel.com. Phone (415)
738-8220 from the US, or 011-52-322-222-2692 from elsewhere. Rates in high season range from $250 per night for
some of the more secluded rooms to $425 and $475 for the prime-view
spaces. Prices include Continental breakfast and snacks during cocktail
hours, often with mariachi music. Choose a room, select a suite or
rent the entire Hacienda, this is the perfect place for total relaxation
in a setting of total beauty.
February-March 2006
Who among us has not dreamed of having a magic carpet upon
which we could be whisked off to the far reaches of the globe?
Well, ENTREE has found that magic carpet. It comes in the form
of The Leading Residences of the World,
an extraordinary risk-free destination club of unparalleled
quality. We’ve seen all the destination clubs in our
day, surrounded by all the hoopla, and none compares to this.
First of all, Leading Residences is backed by Cendant
Corporation, the blue chip travel and residential real
estate company. Unlike other clubs, Leading Residences insures
their memberships with a policy written by the best in the
business. Members receive a refund of 80% of their membership
deposit if they ever decide to resign. Secondly, all memberships
are equal—there are no tiers, everyone pays the same
and has the same preferred access. What we like a lot is Leading
Residences’ rotating priority reservation system, which
assures equal access to the club’s unmatched property
portfolio. This novel system safeguards all members’ investments
and addresses high-demand periods elegantly. What is best about
this club is their meticulous standards in keeping with their
affiliation with Leading Hotels of the
World. Now, for the magic carpet: members can use stunning
residences in beach, golf and ski resort destinations and in
the world’s greatest cities including New
York, Paris and London.
We’ve been to the two spectacular houses the club has
in Cabo San Lucas and can only
pronounce them out of this world. With a membership in Leading
Residences, members can go to Gleneagles,
the South of France, Steamboat
Springs, Hotel Hana in Hawaii,
Kiawah Island, Santa Fe, and The
Grenadines. Administering all this is a superior management
team, crackerjack concierges, and a support system that features
private jets, elite rental cars, Avis
President’s Club and special perks at Leading
Hotels of the World. The price? $325,000 and annual dues of
$15,000. For this you have continuous access for thirty years...and
then you are refunded 80% of your deposit and can continue
to use the benefits each year dues are paid. This is a fantastic
opportunity for those who love to travel and want to stay in
sublime accommodations at a fraction of the purchase price.
The Leading Residences of the World is the only destination
club ENTREE endorses or will ever endorse. For more information
on exploring your passion for the finest travels this way,
visit www.lrwclub.com or
call (866)
LRW-CLUB.
January 2006
Even the most passionate of traveler must come down
to earth every once in a while and head for home. That is why ENTREE
is continually on the lookout for splendid places to live. Santa
Barbara isn’t
too bad, but we think we’ve found a better place: Monterra.
Monterra is often called “the pinnacle of the Monterey Peninsula” and
it’s true: this exclusive, private community rises high above
the bright blue Pacific Ocean and is carefully protected and preserved
for eternity. Only 168 limited-edition homes will be built at Monterra,
each on generous acreage (two to 20 acres) blessed with majestic
ancient oaks, rolling meadows, canyons and brilliant wildflowers.
Monterra is an exclusive community providing property owners a welcome
alchemy of space, privacy and sociability. It’s just a nature
walk away from home to an afternoon of fitness, fine dining or a
friendly tennis match. Just beyond the guard-gated walls of Monterra
lies the prestigious Tehama Golf Club where
a membership awaits. Monterra is a place of extraordinary quality
offering the legendary allure and lifestyle of the gorgeous Carmel
Valley. Monterra is not inexpensive: homesites start at $1,500,000.
But, make no doubt about it: the quality is there and so are people
who appreciate it. And do not forget that besides a magnificent meeting
of land, sea and sky, Monterey’s and Carmel’s much-heralded
attractions of music, shopping, restaurants, parks, golf and trails
are at your doorstep. If you would like to learn more about this
rare opportunity to own a natural and beautiful piece of California
history to call home, telephone (866) 648-9080 or visit www.monterra.com.
December 2005
Robert Hancock went scouting for a pristine, untouched stretch of
beach on Mexico’s West
Coast, and found it two hours north of Puerto
Vallarta. And he found a lot more there: a gorgeous,
coconut-producing plantation, an 1,100-acre estuary teeming with
exotic birds and a turtle camp protecting the endangered olive ridleys.
Here, along the 11-mile beach, Hancock began building stylishly designed
villas for rent to vacationers or for sale at his Playa
Las Tortugas. They’re set back double the required
distance from the beach. And the American has wholeheartedly thrown
himself into the effort to help save the olive ridleys from extinction
by supporting the Turtle Camp, which, while sponsored by the Mexican
government, depends largely on donations. When the females crawl
up the beach to lay up to 100 eggs a night, predators are right behind
them: raccoons, dogs and worst of all, locals who sell the ping-pong
ball-sized eggs to bars, where locals eat them, falsely believing
them to have aphrodesiac qualities. But staffers and volunteers from
the Turtle Camp make nightly patrols to harvest the eggs first, store
them for incubation, then release the hatchlings into the sea. Even
then, the rate of survival to maturity is eight percent, at best.
Visitors at Playa Las Tortugas can go out on nightly turtle patrols
and also help with the release of hundreds of hatchlings, or paddle
out into the estuary to watch birds like the spectacular roseate
spoonbill as it flies over on flaming red wings. Villas can be rented
from $195 a night. Oceanview homes start at $275,000. Telephone (800)
320-7769 or visit www.playalastortugas.com.
November
2005
For Champagne aficionados, there’s nothing like the bubbly magic brewed
in the chalky hills of northeast France. Otherwise, you’re going to be
drinking mere sparkling wine produced elsewhere in the world—and don’t
call it Champagne. The French are very particular about this, saying that if
it isn’t produced in the highly regulated region of Champagne, you can’t
call it that. ENTREE visited Champagne for the annual September harvest, where
bunches of Chardonnay, pinot noir and pinot meunier grapes were hand-picked by
a small army of workers, using nearly as much care with each cluster as though
they were handling a newborn baby. We found tourists swarming to the vineyards
as well, following the Route of Champagne between Reims and Epernay, visiting
the famous houses, tasting the bubbly and prowling the vast network of cool cellars
where the each precious bottle sleeps until its time is right. A word of caution:
Do your homework first. Some Champagne houses are not open to the public and
others are closed on weekends. Reims and Epernay are only slightly over an hour
by train from Paris, allowing for a day trip. But to really taste the region,
it’s best to drive or hire a car. Moet & Chandon
(www.moet.com), the
mega-producer, offers an excellent tour, as well as a pricey gift shop. In its
Epernay courtyard you’ll find a statue honoring Dom Perignon, the Benedictine
monk who, contrary to popular legend, did not “invent” Champagne
but did years of diligent work to help perfect the blending and intricate production
of the most famous wine in the world. If one is to drink well, one must eat well
too. One Champenois citadel dedicated to fine food as well as Champagne is the
Royal Champagne, F-51160 Champillon, RN 51, Bellevue,. telephone 33-03-26-52-87-11,
www.royalchampagne.com, a Relais & Chateaux hotel. Its restaurant boasts
a Michelin star, thanks to its young chef, Philippe
Augé. At night the
elegant dining room and guest rooms offer a spectacular view of the lights of
Epernay below, like bright gems flung from on high. ENTREE, however, dropped
our bags at Hostellerie La Briqueterie, 4 Route
de Sézanne, 51530 Vinay,
Epernay, telephone 33-03-26-59-99-99. (www.labriqueterie.fr.), a charming country
inn a few miles outside Epernay with a heated indoor pool and fine dining room.
For more information, contact the Office of Champagne USA, Washington DC, (www.champagne.us).
October 2005
Forget Prada binges. Forget dining at Grand Vefour.
Forget yachting in Croatia. The biggest trend in international
travel seems
to have
sprung from a less material source, Dan Brown’s novel,
The Da Vinci Code. International travelers are coming to Europe
in
droves to follow in the gumshoes of the art world detective who
cracked
the mysteries of the Mona Lisa. While Da Vinci Code tours are
the rage, ENTREE loves the style, artistry and sense of cool Geneva's unparalleled
Hotel d'Angleterre (since 1872) has blended into their Looking
for Mona Lisa package. A two-night minimum stay
in the pristine confines of the d’Angleterre’s grand
quarters includes an indulgent daily breakfast buffet, sauna
and gym access
and a make-up session with Clarins to look your loveliest while sitting
with Swiss portrait artist Dominique Cornaglia.
Master of a wide range of mediums from oils and acrylics to watercolor
and pencil,
Cornaglia will paint a classic portrait of each guest with all
the romance and precision of a Renaissance master. Mona Lisa
guests will
also receive a Da Vinci cocktail in the sexy confines of the
hotel’s
classic Leopard Lounge,
purring over a potentially lethal combination of Tequila, Campari,
Cointreau and lemon. We’re not sure Mona
Lisa herself knocked back a lot of tequila, but still we adore you,
Mona. The Looking for Mona Lisa package starts at $1,070, depending
on accommodations and choice of medium used in your portrait, and
is one of very few to leave you with such a permanent, personal keepsake.
Who knows? In 600 years, crazed tourists might be cramming into The
Louvre to wonder what was on your mind. Let’s hope it wasn’t
leaving the door unlocked back home. Geneva’s elegant five-star
luxury Hotel d’Angleterre is found in the heart of the
city, romantically perched over Lake Geneva. The hotel is legendary
for
high-profile guests and perfectly-managed grandeur. For more
information or reservations, please visit www.dangleterrehotel.com or call +41
(0) 22 906 5555.
September 2005
One of West Hollywood’s best-kept secrets: The Tower
Bar, the
snazzy new restaurant in the landmark Argyle Hotel, currently being
renovated by the talented owner, Jeff Klein. Wunderkind Piero
Morovich is in the kitchen, the gracious Dimitri
Dimitrov is at the maitre
d’ stand, and the distinguished Page Cavanaugh lovingly tickles
the 88s. The Tower Bar, 8358 West Sunset Blvd., (323) 654-7100. Almost
forgot to name drop: we saw the lithe and lovely Nicole Kidman, here
sitting under the photo of Zazu Pitts.
July-August 2005
The Pierre has been one of New
York’s finest hotels for over
70 years. Some things never change. The Pierre is now a Taj
Hotel.
Fifth Avenue at its door, Central Park just across the avenue, The
Pierre, with its neoclassic spire and distinctive copper roof, has
been a landmark among New York landmarks since 1930. And even more
of a landmark is the effortless grace that, along with ever-attentive
service, has made The Pierre New York a home away from home for international
travelers. We know and respect Taj Hotels greatly, not only because
the elegant hotelier Raymond Bickson confidently
heads the company with great professionalism. Established in 1903,
Taj Hotels Resorts
and Palaces is one of Asia’s largest and finest group of
hotels, with 56 hotels in 39 locations across India with an additional
17
international hotels in the Maldives, Mauritius, Malaysia,
Seychelles, U.K., Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Africa and the Middle
East. As treasured
historical landmarks, Taj Hotels have become destinations in themselves.
They share a mutual culture, which places a premium on distinctive
service while retaining the unique appeal of each hotel. This can
be seen clearly throughout the Taj Palace hotels in India where
the group understands the importance of protecting the heritage
of the
properties, while offering unrivaled luxury. This knowledge will
only help them to become conscientious guardians of The Pierre’s
legacy, as the Taj guides it into the future. Taj Hotels Resorts
and Palaces will ensure that The Pierre continues to symbolize
uncompromised luxury, not only in New York, but also around the
world. For more
information and instant online reservations at The Pierre visit www.tajhotels.com/Pierre.
Or call (212) 838-8000. News flash: the gracious General Manager
of The Lowell Hotel in New
York, Heiko Kuenstle, has been selected
to run The Pierre. This is a stroke of genius: the gracious Mr. Kuenstle
is one of the best in the business, a razor-sharp General Manager
with a great sense of style.
May-June
2005
There was a time when ENTREE considered the French the
world’s
greatest hoteliers with the best hotels. That was in the 1980s.
They
still have some spectacular men and women running some breath-taking
hotels like the Four Seasons George
V, Crillon, Plaza-Athenee and Bristol in
Paris. In the ’90s
we gravitated to England and
fell in love with London hotels and the talented professionals
who orchestrate them.
London still has world class properties like The
Lanesborough, Milestone and
The Dorchester and
we are looking for terrific things from Claridge’s,
The Connaught and The
Berkeley now that they are rebranded as the Maybourne
Hotel Group.
But this
is the 21st century, and the news is we have just returned from
India and can
pronounce Indian hospitality without peer on the planet. We were
in the loving
hands of Taj Hotels and Oberoi on
this trip. India is
a land steeped with noble heritage, picturesque with exquisite
architecture, imbued with
a heroic and
romantic past. Every step in India is a walk through history.
This is a land of
pomp and pageantry, of dust and dung, of marigolds and monsoons,
love and
valor, snow—a place where sand, smoke, ash, and blinding
colors all coalesce in
an ineffable sweetness. The people will open their hearts and
minds to you. You
must see India and see it with Taj Hotels and Oberoi. We’ll
say more about
India in future issues. For now, hold this image of a vast country
of endless
gods, swamis, jungle, desert, oasis, elephants, Bollywood, crushing
poverty and
untold wealth, a place we hold a deep love for, thanks to the
men and women of
Taj and Oberoi who, in their graceful, thoughtful and sincere
fashion, made us feel
both at home and like maharajahs. India is all of our history,
India is the past,
present and future. Go now, go while you are young, or if you
are old. Go if you
are bored or if you are excited by life. India has the capability
to dissolve your
notions of what it means to be alive. Start by visiting www.tajhotels.com and www.oberoihotels.com.
Fly Malaysia Airlines to
India, www.malaysiaairlines.com.
April 2005
It
is rare when a new hotel knocks our socks off. But ZaZa in Dallas did
just that. We thought we had seen it all. But dramatic and intimate ZaZa
trumps most. ZaZa is the hottest hotel in the country—a four-storey
sunny yellow chateau filled with surprises at each and every turn. We have
always defined great Dallas hotels by the standards of The Mansion and
Crescent. We still do. But they must make room now for ZaZa, a banquet for
the senses with a style that blends together urban Dallas at its best with sexy
Mediterranean elegance. ZaZa is sensual and full of fun—a compelling escape—with
impeccable attention to detail. But ZaZa is not a great hotel just on the surface.
Beneath the “Phantom of the Opera meets South of France villa” décor
is a commitment to outstanding hotel keeping, thanks to the eagle eye direction
of General Manager Matt Greene and his splendid young and well-groomed
staff. True credit for ZaZa’s electricity must be given to owner Charlie
Givens,
the creative genius behind the hotel. Nothing seems a problem for ZaZa’s
happy
employees who always are at the ready to gracefully meet any challenge. There
are 145 guest rooms that are rich in color and texture, yet state-of-the-art
equipped. Thirteen large and extravagant concept suites, each with experiential
differences, like the Out of Africa Suite, the Far East Suite and the Bohemia
Suite, allow guests to revel in another world. Our personal favorite is the ZaZa
Suite, 1500 square feet of well-bred calm with jaw-dropping views of the
skyline, imported antiques, full kitchen, large balcony and whirlpool bathtub.
ZaZa’s Dragonfly Restaurant and Lounge attracts Dallas’s prettiest
women and
dashing men each evening. Created in collaboration with well known chef
Stephan Pyles, the restaurant crisply serves exquisite Mediterranean cuisine
with Asian influences in an atmosphere of whimsy, with energetic music and
romantic lighting. We guarantee you’ll see Prada bags and Stetson hats,
Tiffany
baubles and Tony Lama boots. ZaZa is all about playfulness and a sense of
humor. It is also the ideal place for business meetings. But after work, a pool
awaits, as does the 4000-square-foot ZaSpa for relaxing massages, pedicures and
facials. It is almost as if Mr. Greene, his owners and staff took a close look
at
every aspect of the hotel experience and agreed to evolve it to a higher, more
creative level. Hence, the bikini underwear for sale in the candlelit lobby and
washable transfer tattoos for all. Everywhere one turns there is inspiration:
Helmut Newton photos, Frette linens, snack-stock pantries on each floor. To
sum it up, ZaZa is trendy, ZaZa is wildly popular, ZaZa is excellently located,
ZaZa is chic. More than that, ZaZa, underneath all the cool, is a hard-working
hotel, anticipating your every need and every bit the masterpiece of fine hospitality
as any Four Seasons or Ritz-Carlton. Hotel ZaZa, 2332 Leonard Street,
Dallas, (214) 468-8399, www.hotelzaza.com. As we went to press, we learned of
ZaZa’s seven new ultra-luxury suites—The Magnificent Seven—decadent
villas
with private access, endless extras, gourmet kitchens, rainforest showers,
oversized beds, 42-inch plasma screen televisions, sky-high ceilings, reserved
parking, Whirlpool spas, advanced music systems—and stylish comfort of
the
highest level. Need we go on? Who could resist a suite named “Crouching
Tiger” or “Red Shoes” or “Dangerous Beauty”? Not
us, surely.
February-March 2005
One of our favorite spas is surely the esteemed Golden Door in
Escondido, California, north of San Diego. The happy weeks at this
destination spa run from Sunday to Sunday. Most weeks are for
women only and limited to 40, with a large, caring staff and lovely
Japanese gardens for atmosphere. Hiking and every type of aerobics
are offered,
as well as a full schedule of yoga and Tai Chi. All guests are given
a personal
trainer to help them achieve their goals. One of the best parts is
the daily
routine of massages in your room, with facials and nail care in the
beauty
compound. The Golden Door is not resting on its laurels, and has
started
upgrades galore. They are replacing the 1960s parquet flooring with
bamboo and
re-doing all the bathrooms and draperies, making the rooms (all of
which open
onto courtyards) even more charming for relaxation. The newest addition
is a
small pool house with a very warm pool, built above the Japanese
gardens for
in-water massages. We didn’t try this but we heard many rave
reviews. At The
Door, one makes new friendships, hears interesting evening lectures
and experi-
ences valuable cooking classes to stay healthy. How great is it that,
along with mind, body and spiritual renewal, personal laundry is
done and sweats are
provided. Pack your troubles and shoes and find all the peace of
mind you
could hope for in one week. Reward yourself: Golden Door weeks are
$6500, all
included, except for a few à la carte services. P.O.
Box 463077, Escondido, CA
92046, (800) 424-0777; www.goldendoor.com.
January 2005
The Mosaic Hotel is
just what all of us are looking for: a well-run, attractive hotel in Beverly
Hills that will not require mortgaging the Bentley.
Located in the heart of Beverly Hills, steps from Rodeo Drive,
this 47-room
gem has style and ambiance and is an oasis of elegance, warmth
and peerless service in a very calm and private setting. All
rooms and suites have free DSL, two phones, CD player and luscious
robes. There is an efficient concierge, fitness center and outdoor
heated pool at The Mosaic. Best of all, a full-service restaurant
serves excellent food with an international flair, and the small
bar off the dining room buzzes with smart and attractive locals,
especially the young Creative Artists crowd. Rich
Wood is the chef performing all the magic in the kitchen. Brendan
Carlin
is the friendly General Manager who directs his eager
staff with true talent. Rooms start at $242. The Mosaic is at 125
S. Spalding Drive, (310) 278-0303.
Blakes was London’s first
boutique hotel and we recently decided to go back to see how it has
matured. The good news is that
it still remains among the best of chic London nests. It is an elegant,
seductive and, some say, pleasantly decadent hotel with design elements
from the East, Europe and England. The talented Anouska
Hempel assembled
Blakes’ exotic and mysterious atmosphere from her far-flung
travels, and a more romantic setting would be hard to find. Rooms
are richly done up and imaginative. Blakes has a seriously dramatic
restaurant with inspired cooking. It is hard to capture the essence
of Blakes, but if you can imagine old Vuitton trunks, orange salmon
sashimi, exotic fans made of Brazilian bird feathers, black lacquer
trays, slipper orchids, a white gravel courtyard and a can-do-anything
concierge, you’ll begin to understand this highly polished
gem. Room rates begin at about $290. Oh, and there is oxygen in
the mini-bars. Blakes, 33 Roland Gardens, telephone 020-737-06701.
November-December
2004
A total transformation has occurred at the
manor house in the Dorset village
of Evershot, England.
Originally built circa 1788, writer Thomas
Hardy was the architect when it was extended
in 1893. In recent years the home was turned into a hotel with
a perfectly ghastly interior that rendered its Relais & Châteaux membership
a mystery. The R&C membership not only continues—it
finally makes sense. Using her finest creative instincts, hotelier
Bea Tollman has carefully restored the formerly mundane guest
house into Summer Lodge Country
House Hotel, Restaurant and Spa. Surrounded
by beautiful countryside, this wonderfully enhanced Georgian
manor is now a unique addition to Mrs. Tollman’s collection
of Red Carnation Hotels.
Under the watchful eye of General Manager Charles
Lötter, Summer Lodge is running very smoothly—an
elegant getaway, a unique business retreat with state-of-the-art
facilities and a renowned address for fine dining. The friendly
staff caters beautifully to all, ensuring that guests enjoy
the country house lifestyle. Even the young are treated kindly
as adults. The teddy bear in each unique bedroom, however,
is for both young and older alike—a welcoming and amusing
touch. Summer Lodge has the coziest of duvet-covered beds,
which ensure a blissful night’s sleep. Accommodations
are sophisticated yet warm and comfortable. The extensive accessories
in the baths and bedrooms, the fabrics and overall décor
are of lush quality, all of them selected with the talented
eye of Mrs. Tollman. The dining room offers food that can rarely
be faulted. Taste and presentation are superb. Local guests
hold celebrations by feasting here while others hail from all
parts of the continent and beyond. The ambiance influences
the behavior of any child present. We were charmed to see that
backs were straightened, voices lowered. One young but very
grown-up fellow quietly enjoyed a game of “I Spy With
My Little Eye” with his family while awaiting his chocolate
soufflé. This dining room hums with the quiet conversations
of families and the whispers of couples on romantic anniversary
getaways—or were they lovers’ trysts? Or, after
an intense day in the Lodge’s high-tech conference room,
business executives can also enjoy the excellent wine list
and relax over epicurean delights. Executive Chef Steve
Titman should be most proud of his following
of all ages, nationalities and vocations. Mrs. Tollman’s
horticultural flair is in evidence everywhere. Displays of
boxwood topiary line the driveway, and orchids abound throughout
the residential and public areas. Her love of dogs is also
clearly shown in the clubby bar: very Ralph Lauren, with antique
canine paintings on all available walls. The family dogs—two
unusually long long-haired dachshunds—can be seen cavorting
around the grounds or shadowing their mistress during her frequent
personal visits to this relaxing haven. Now that the spa is
about to open and the new conservatory to cover the heated
swimming pool is almost complete, we wonder how one can be
tempted away to visit all the scenic delights Dorset has to
offer. Summer Lodge,
telephone 011 44 1935 48 2000,
visit www.summerlodgehotel.com.
October
2004
The bustling streets of Taipei are in turns rewarding and overwhelming, with
thousands of mopeds screaming in every direction, street markets teeming with
fun seekers, and flavors both tasty and strange coming from every direction.
The Grand Formosa Regent Taipei is its best hotel, offering comfortable sanctuary
and indulgent luxury in a prime neighborhood. When foreign leaders and international
stars like Elton John and Michael Jordan land in Taipei, the Grand Formosa
is their first stop. They are whisked through the sexy glass and marble lobby
to plush and restorative rooms. The 19th floor Tai Pan Residences and Club
redefine hotel luxury with rooms that resemble executive offices filled with
business technology and first-class amenities to help weary travelers stay
in touch with their homeland and their sanity. From giant flatscreen TVs to
a pillow menu to the wide city views that include a glimpse of Taipei 101 (currently
the world’s tallest building), The Tai Pan Residences are seductive and
complete, with butler service; a massive, fully stocked lounge overseen by
attentive, friendly concierges; meeting rooms and the same delicious Chinese
and Western food found in the Grand Formosa’s cherished and acclaimed
restaurants that include Robin’s Grill for steaks and the elegant Lan
Ting for Shanghai cuisine. The Grand Formosa also boasts the gorgeous Wellspring
Spa for traditional Swedish, Thai and Balinese massage therapies, as well as
the latest in beauty trends on the floor beneath a rooftop pool. A great basement
gym is popular with local members and is available almost 24 hours a day for
guests. The Grand Formosa sits atop some of the world’s best shopping,
and has plans to construct a fashion center, strengthening its position as
the premier stop for jewelry and couture in Taiwan. Completing the perfect
experience at the Grand Formosa are the vigilant and friendly staff, who are
always charming in a genuine way and never intrusive or obsequious. The Grand
Formosa Regent is another gem in the Four Seasons crown, head and shoulders
above any other hotel in Taipei, a city of thousands of hotels catering to
business and tourist needs. General Manager Rudy Scherb has entered our pantheon
of great Four Seasons managers. The Grand Formosa Regent
Taipei can be reached
at 886-2-2523-8000. Visit www.grandformosa.com.tw. Room rates range from $147-$2363.
September
2004
The reports are true, there is currently no nightlife neighborhood as bustling
and glamorous as the Meat Packing District on the far West Side of New
York around 14th Street. We saw the streets teeming with groups of good-looking,
sharply-dressed partygoers having a ball among the numerous hip nightclubs,
bars, restaurants and lounges to be found amid its charming streets. In many
ways, the Meat Packing District obliterates the grungy scenes of the East Village
and Lower East Side, allowing New Yorkers the chance to be dapper and elegant
again. The area’s best place to stay and usually the best place to go
is The Hotel Gansevoort. The Gansevoort resembles the eternally cool beachside
hotels of Miami with a sexy, glass, color-changing façade and unlimited
style. The rooms are spacious and chic, but retain the intimacy of the best
boutiques. Flat-screen TVs, dark wood, granite balconies, sleek bathrooms,
featherbeds and comfortable, ergonomic furnishings are the standards among
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