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Monday, January 18, 2010

Four Seasons, New York: Luxury in the Center of the Big Apple

Rising over Manhattan's premier shopping and business district is the Four Seasons Hotel, a nominee for a Readers' Choice Award for Best City Hotel.Designed by I.M. Pei, the hotel features stunning views and gracious style. It is a remarkable luxury experience in one of the busiest cities of the world.
The hotel offers 368 generously-sized guest rooms, including 63 suites. Some accomodations have furnished terraces with views of Central Park or the downtown skyline. The décor is contemporary and understated, featuring the finest handcrafted furniture and English sycamore panelling. Signature facilities include Florentine marble bathrooms with a glass-enclosed shower stall, a deep soaking tub that fills in 60 seconds and a private changing area.
On the 52nd floor, the 4,300 square feet Ty Warner Penthouse, named for the owner of the hotel, was a collaboration between Ty Warner, renowned designer Peter Marino and I.M. Pei. With cantilevered glass balconies and floor-to-ceiling bay windows, the suite is set beneath 25-foot cathedral ceilings. The nine-room penthouse offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of all Manhattan, a private spa room, library, breakfast room, indoor-outdoor Zen garden and library. The suite was custom-commissioned in every detail, from semi-precious stone surfaces to fabrics woven with platinum and gold and comes equipped with a private chauffeur for unlimited travel during the guests' stay with a choice of a Rolls Royce Phantom or a Mercedes Maybach.The hotel features a full-service spa with Shiatsu, hot stone, Thai ceremony and reflexology treatments (massage, facial and hand and foot treatments) in addition to whirlpool, sauna and steam facilities. There is also a 5,000 square foot fitness facility with cardiovascular equipment; fitness and yoga trainesr are also available for hire.Nightly rates (not including taxes and service charges) start at $655 for a moderate room; suites start at $1,950 per night.Vote now for what you believe is the best of breed for each of the Winter Travel categories. Readers' Choice Awards for the Best in Winter Travel will be announced on January 31st.

Information provided by http://www.luxist.com/

Vail and Beaver Creek: Rocky Mountain High

If escaping to warmer weather isn't your optimal idea of a vacation, head west to the Rockies for a family ski trip. There, the air is clear, the powder is fresh, and the amenities are plenty. For the best of all three, try Beaver Creek and Vail – both of which are up for a Readers' Choice Award in the Best Luxury Family Winter Vacation category.
Perhaps the most famous of America's ski resort towns, Vail has its reputation for good reason. Vail Mountain, at 5,289 skiable acres, is the largest single mountain ski resort in the U.S.; the town of Vail is a luxury ski bum's dream. The area, which is reminiscent of renowned resorts such as Switzerland's St. Moritz, Italy's Cortina and Spain's Val d'Aran, it is a year-round destination for families with plenty of activities geared for all ages. Its legendary ski slopes make Vail the ultimate place to enjoy world-class skiing and snowboarding in addition to Nordic skiing, snowshoeing and ice skating. Kids ages four and under ski free; children's lift tickets start at age five and go to age 12. Nightlife includes world-class theater productions and some of the best dining in Colorado.Vail offers plenty of other activities, such as the Nature Discovery Center atop Vail Mountain. The Nature Discovery Center has provided guests with access to the wonders of the natural world in addition to a variety of environmental education and interpretive programs led by naturalists. During the winter season, Vail Ski School students visit the Discovery Center as part of the ski school's SKE-Cology program, which educates youth about mountain safety and mountain ecology. In winter and summer, naturalists lead snowshoe tours and nature hikes that explore the sub-alpine habitat atop Vail Mountain, including Nature at Night, a free nature talk held under the stars. Expert naturalists also host regular moonlit snowshoe tours, allowing guests to learn about their surroundings while snowshoeing through the White River National Forest.A few miles away, tucked away in the mountains, is neighbor Beaver Creek Village. This tony enclave offers a village-to-village ski experience with Bachelor Gulch and Arrowhead and turns into a miniature cosmopolitan center every night, playing host to live jazz concerts, Broadway-level theater, visiting symphonies, films and other attractions. Bars and taverns line the warmly lit streets. For kids, there's a four-lane tubing hill and an ice skating rink, in addition to one of the best ski schools in the country, if not the world. A great place to stay in Beaver Creek is the Park Hyatt Beaver Creek Resort and Spa. This 190-room chateau-style resort offers a full-service spa, private balconies in most rooms and an outdoor firepit complete with a daily dose of s'mores.
More intimate and removed than Beaver Creek Village, Bachelor Gulch is the perfect setting for a family-oriented ski getaway that combines privacy with authentic Rocky Mountain luxury. Bachelor Gulch is part of Beaver Creek and is one of its three Village areas. Stay at the Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch, which is a Readers' Choice Nominee for Best Ski Hotel. The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch is a kid-friendly grand lodge with luxurious accommodations situated right at the base of the Bachelor Gulch Express Lift (a high-speed quad chairlift, providing unparalleled ski-in, ski-out access).
In Vail, stay at the Sonnenalp Resort of Vail, a boutique-style hotel in the heart of the village and enjoy nightlife that includes frequent musical guest, film festivals, and always cozy eateries and watering holes. Another great place to stay in Vail is the Arrabelle at Vail Square, a RockResort property. A brand new world-class hotel, it is located the center of Vail Square, and is just steps away from the Eagle Bahn Goldola at Vail Mountain. On top of luxurious accomodations and a full-service spa, it also has a beautiful skating rink and is surrounded by shops and restaurants that are suitable for all ages. Room rates for the most luxurious hotels in the Rockies generally start around $400 per night, based on double occupancy. On the bright side, a flight to Colorado won't set you back as far as an international excursion.Vote now for what you believe is the best of breed for each of the Winter Travel categories. Readers' Choice Awards for the Best in Winter Travel will be announced on January 31st.

Information provided by http://www.luxist.com/

Rose Petals and Breakfast In Bed For Valentine's Day

If your Valentine's Day plans take you to Boston, the Fairmont Copley Plaza has a plan to help your romance along. The Fairmont Copley Plaza's Be My Valentine Package includes an overnight stay, dinner for two in the Oak Room (shown above), rose-petal turn down service and breakfast in bed. This package is available February 12-14, 2010, and rates start at $349. The Oak Room will offer a three-course prix fixe Valentine's Day menu. The prix fixe menu sets the scene for love with appetizers such as Vermont Bijou chevre on crispy crouton with baby mache, toasted pistachios and huckleberry-pomegranate vinaigrette or Jonah crab cocktail with hearts of palm, citrus segments, baby arugula and passionfruit emulsion. Tempting entrée choices include filet of local Barramundi, asparagus tips, lobster vanilla sauce and straw potatoes or petite filet Wellington style with Portobello cap and puff pastry heart, zucchini marbles, and truffle Madeira jus. And no Valentine meal is complete without dessert which finishes up with Chocolate Variations featuring praline crunch Marquise, chocolate wrapped raspberry bonbon and Kahlua espresso terrine. The prix fixe menu is available for $66 per person with a glass of Rosé sparkling wine.The Oak Bar will also offer Valentine's-inspired cocktails. The Sweetheart Martini is comprised of Hendricks's gin, Monin rose syrup, fresh lemon and grapefruit juices and a float of Rosé Champagne, served with a dish of Sweetheart™ Conversation Hearts. The Bésame (Kiss Me) is a combination of Christiania Organic Vodka, POM juice, Midori liqueur and a hint of Rosé Champagne. The Forbidden Love features Perrier Jouet topped with X-Rated Fusion Liqueur. These cocktails will be available throughout the Valentine's Day weekend.
Tags: valentines day, valentines day dinner, ValentinesDay, ValentinesDayDinner

Information provided by http://www.luxist.com/

Oceania Cruises: Elegant, Glamorous and Spacious

Oceania Cruises: Elegant, Glamorous and Spacious

Founded in 2002, Oceania Cruises, the world's only upper premium cruise line, is a nominee for a Reader's Choice Award for Best Caribbean Cruise.The company's three 684-guest ships – Regatta, Insignia and Nautica – convey guests to 300 different ports of call as part of 34 different itineraries around the world. Next year, the 1,258-guest Marina will join Oceania's fleet, complete with ten on-board dining venues, including six restaurants. All of Oceania's vessels offers arts and crafts classes, as well as lectures given before reaching port of call about its local culture and history.The Regatta , which is the flagship of the Oceania Cruises fleet, handles the company's Caribbean traffic. Built in 1998, the ship's decks are resplendent in the finest teak, custom stone and tile work while her lounges, suites and staterooms boast luxurious, neo-classical furnishings. The Regatta offers every luxury one might expect with four unique, open seating restaurants, eight lounges and bars, a world class fitness center and spa, a casino and 342 suites and staterooms, nearly 70% of which have private verandas. The ship's staff of 400 pampers up to 684 guests on every voyage; itineraries range from 10-24 days. The Regatta's Caribbean Pearls' itinerary includes stops in bustling St. John's, scenic Tortola, and the posh port of Gustavia in St. Bart. The Canyon Ranch SpaClub on board Oceania's ships offer a full range of spa treatments from body wraps and acupuncture to ayuryeda, massage and skin care.The 12-day version of Oceania's "Caribbean Pearls" cruise runs just shy of $3,000 for an ocean view room; suites can be had for just north of $6,000. As an added bonus, airfare is included in both fares for early bookers.Vote now for what you believe is the best of breed for each of the Winter Travel categories. Readers' Choice Awards for the Best in Winter Travel will be announced on January 31st.

Information provided by http://www.luxist.com/

Regent Seven Seas Cruises: The Ultimate Ultra-Luxury Vacation

Regent Seven Seas Cruises is a nominee for a Readers' Choice Award for Best Caribbean Cruise Line.Regent operates a fleet of elegantly appointed ships that visit more than 300 worldwide destinations on seven to 119-night voyages. The company is the world's only cruise line that includes award-winning service, acclaimed cuisine, premium spirits and fine wine, gratuities and sightseeing excursions in every port for the ultimate "ultra-luxury" vacation. Its fleet includes the Seven Seas Voyager and Seven Seas Mariner, both of which are all-suite, all-balcony ships accommodating 700 guests. Its ship, Seven Seas Navigator, is all-suite with 90% having balconies.With some of the highest space-per-guest rations in the cruise industry, accommodations on-board the intimate Regent Seven Seas ships are considered among the most luxurious afloat and include such requisite amenities as down comforters, fine Egyptian cotton linens, flat-screen televisions, DVD players and Wi-Fi access. Top suites have iPod music systems with Bose speakers.What really makes the Regent experience different from the other cruise lines, is that it provides the most inclusive ultra-luxury cruise experience with an incomparable array of complimentary features and services. Regent Seven Seas Cruise fares include economy class air fare, unlimited shore excursions, all fine dining options, fitness programs, complimentary beverages (including fine wines and premium spirits, beer, etc. served throughout the ships), and all shipboard gratuities. The only out-of-pocket expenses guests incur on board are for shopping or spa treatments.For 2010, Regent Seven Seas ships has partnered with world famous Canyon Ranch, the leading operator of destination health resorts, to operate state-of-the-art spa, wellness and fitness facilities on-board all three vessels. The ships' Canyon Ranch SpaClub offers the most desirable spa amenities available: massage, body and skin-care treatment rooms, a gym and weight room with cardio and weight training equipment, a juice bar, men's and women's locker rooms, thalassotherapy, sauna and steam rooms. Regent is also featuring Canyon Ranch's Spa Cuisine and Canyon Ranch-certified fitness instructors.Regent Seven Seas Cruises also has an exclusive partnership with Jean-Michel Cousteau, son of legendary ocean explorer Jacques Cousteau. Under the agreement, the renowned filmmaker, environmentalist and educator will lecture several times per year on Regent Seven Seas ships. In addition, Cousteau's Ocean Futures Society counselors will lead the line's Ambassadors of the Environment youth enrichment program on select Alaska and Caribbean cruises. The program introduces young travelers to extraordinary natural wonders and offers imaginative ways to build sustainability and conservation through direct, hands-on experience. Many of the cruises commence in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. while some launch from Barbados, Puerto Rico or Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Caribbean voyages are offered during the months of November through April. Regent's 5, 10 and 11 day long Caribbean cruises in April are aboard its 490-guest Navigator, which just underwent a complete stern-to-stern refurbishment. Regent will soon offer a 24 night Amazon cruise, round-trip from the U.S.Vote now for what you believe is the best of breed for each of the Winter Travel categories. Readers' Choice Awards for the Best in Winter Travel will be announced on January 31st.

Information provided by http://www.luxist.com/

Family Safari to Kenya with Abercrombie & Kent: An Experience of a Lifetime

For families with a thirst for adventure, a safari trip to Africa may be the ideal cure to the winter blues. Leave the planning to Abercrombie & Kent, a luxury travel company that's been at it for half a century, now nominated for a Readers' Choice Award in the Best Luxury Family Winter Vacation category.
Founded in 1962 by a British family living in East Africa, Abercrombie & Kent offers an unparalleled family safari in Kenya. The 11-day itinerary starts with a flight to Nairobi, the capital of Kenya and cultural, economic and political hub of East Africa. Once there, you'll start your journey with a visit to Daphne Sheldrick's Baby Elephant Orphanage, where keepers sometimes sleep with lonely animals at night. Proceed to the Giraffe Center, where you'll feed long-necked beauties from the palm of your hand.
Next, you'll head out into the wilds with a drive to the Sweetwaters Reserve, one of the best places to spot a rare chimpanzee or black rhino. Then delve deep into bush country with a trip to the Samburu game reserve, rife with buffalo, lion, leopard among others; meet with members of the nomadic Samburu tribe and track game, catch butterflies, or even ride a camel.
The next day, you'll spend the first of three days on the Masai Mara Game reserve, sleeping in tents near the Talek River and witnessing the vast expanse of the African savannah. Travel to a nearby village to learn about tribal culture and discover the proper way to throw a spear or light a fire with sticks. For amateur aviators, consider the optional hot air balloon safari before heading home.
Abercrombie & Kent's Kenya Family Safari is the experience of a lifetime, but these kind of memories don't come cheaply. The cost, based on double occupancy, is $5,825 per person plus airfare. For those who can afford it, there are few alternatives that can compare.Vote now for what you believe is the best of breed for each of the Winter Travel categories. Readers' Choice Awards for the Best in Winter Travel will be announced on January 31st.

Information provided by http://www.luxist.com/

Four Seasons George V: Redefining Luxury in the City of Light

Only a few short steps away from the Champs-Elysées, is the world-renowned Four Seasons Hotel George V Paris. This world-renowned hotel in the heart of Paris is a Readers' Choice Nominee for Best City Hotel.The opulent hotel's gracious lobby is beautifully decorated with an impressive collection of objets d'art; the 17th-century tapestries adorning its walls are breathtaking. The hotel has a spirit that lives on in thoroughly reborn, highly advanced spaces. The Four Seasons George V Paris redefines luxury and impeccable service in the City of Light.Rising eight stories above the city, the hotel was built in 1928. It offers 245 guest rooms with nearly one-quarter being suites. All feature unique architectural details and many feature private terraces overlooking Paris. The guest rooms are among the most spacious of all Paris hotels.The hotel is ideally situated in what is referred to as the "Golden Triangle of Paris". The River Seine is nearby as is the Arc de Triomphe and the Eiffel Tower, while some of the world's best shopping is a delightful 10 minute walk away.The spa is a peaceful respite in the heart of the bustling city. It is decorated in muted colors and 18th century prints. Considered to be the most luxurious and finest hotel spa in Paris, the spa offers a comprehensive menu of skin and body treatment rooms, a whirlpool, sauna, steam bath, massage facilities and a relaxation room. The hotel also offers an indoor swimming pool that is decorated with exquisite trompe l'oeil murals depicting the gardens of Versailles. There's also a fitness center with state-of-the-art cardiovascular equipment and strength machines.The hotel's restaurant, Le Cinq, is an elegant dining room featuring classic French culinary techniques. Just two months after its opening, Le Cinq was awarded its first star from the Michelin Guide; within the first year a second star was awarded. Michelin awards stars for excellence in food, quality, creativity, service and atmosphere.Rates at the Four Seasons George V Paris are approximately 750 euros for a moderate room, while suites start at 1,795 euros per night. Rates include taxes and service charges. Reservations can be made here.Vote now for what you believe is the best of breed for each of the Winter Travel categories. Readers' Choice Awards for the Best in Winter Travel will be announced on January 31st.

Information provided by http://www.luxist.com/

Omega Constellation Baguette Watch

Omega Constellation Baguette Watch

Funny how so recently I was discussing my perception that the new style Omega Constellation watches are the brand's flagship models for women, and now I get to discuss the Constellation line's flagship model. This uber-luxury timepiece not only proves my theory about Omega's high hopes for the Constellation watches, but is also probably one of the most (if not the most) luxurious jewelry pieces from Omega that has ever been made. Omega muses that because each diamond in the watch is hand selected and cut for the piece, if a diamond would require replacement, the process would take as long as making an entire new watch as a stone would need to be selected to make a new watch. This is the Omega Constellation Baguette watch for ladies, and I am not sure if there is going to be more than one of them (only one has been made so far). The watch is in 18k white gold and has 459 very large Wesselton diamonds all over it - from the dial to the case, and all over the bracelet. The stones have what is called an "invisible mount," which makes their settings not visible. This makes them look all put together very neatly and closely. The watch contains all baguette and trapeze cut diamonds. There is also a small mother-of-pearl disc behind the star shape on the dial. Inside the watch is an Omega Caliber 8421 automatic Co-Axial escapement mechanical movement. A lovely piece in a sick, ultra excess sort of way, the watch has over 30 carats of diamonds on it. Price? Well if you have to ask don't even bother taking out your wallet. Ariel Adams publishes the luxury watch review site aBlogtoRead.com.
Tags: Baguette, Constellation, diamonds, Omega, watch

Information provided by http://www.luxist.com/

St. Cupcake Offers Bespoke Mail Order Cupcakes - Yum!

Sometimes things that qualify as a luxury item are big and obvious; they are encrusted with diamonds, have a well known name and an expensive price tag. Other times luxury can be defined as something small that you do for yourself or a friend. A small Portland, Oregon bakery called St. Cupcake falls into this category of small personal luxuries.This local bakery has started an online delivery service for their incredibly popular cupcakes. The luxury for the consumer lies both in the incredible wide range of flavor choices and in the fact that you can have home baked taste delivered to your door without lifting a finger. The inspiration for the mail order cupcake business came to owner Jami Curl after customers themselves mentioned trying to ship her delicious baked goodies to friends to taste. Jami thought that "we could develop some packaging and a technique that would allow us to ship the cupcakes so they arrive on the recipient's door step fresh and perfect."Hence the wonderful and unique online cupcake builder was born. Customers can choose their cake flavors, their icings and their sprinkle colors creating a truly bespoke cupcake. Often this allows for even greater freedom as customers have come up with unique combinations never anticipated by the owners and not sold in the bakery. The cupcakes come in three possible package combinations of 3, 6 or 12 cupcakes. Flavors of cupcakes include the basic vanilla and chocolate as well as more esoteric flavors such as pumpkin spice, carrot and vanilla toffee. A true west coast shop there are even vegan selections for those with dietary restrictions. The buttercream frosting selections include unusual flavors such as mint and fudge while the sprinkle choices vary from standard jimmies to rainbow nonpareil and toasted coconut. It seems that the shopping ends up being as much fun as the receiving.The cupcakes arrive in an adorable kit with an icing wand and decorating tips. A perfect gift idea for a birthday or even to send to your own family when you are too busy to make home made treats for your children. A simple little luxury ranging in price from $10.00 for three cupcakes to $35.00 for a package of twelve.

Information provided by http://www.luxist.com/

Friday, January 15, 2010

The Top Ten VC Blogs (New And Improved)

The Top Ten VC Blogs (New And Improved)

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Thursday, January 14, 2010

Room Forty, A Restaurant Without Walls

Room Forty, A Restaurant Without Walls

When is a restaurant not a restaurant? When it's Room Forty, a 'restaurant without walls' that hosts winemaker dinners in alternative venues and also does private catering. They work with winemakers to create events in an undisclosed, non-restaurant environment. Each month features one winemaker and several dinners, usually one in Los Angeles and one in Orange County. February's winemaker is Russell From, owner and winemaker of Herman Story Wines. From was one of the first winemakers to work with Room Forty and makes Santa Barbara wines including Syrah and Grenache. Tickets are $150 and upon confirmation of your ticket purchase, you will receive an email with location specifics.
Tags: herman story wines, HermanStoryWines, room forty, RoomForty, wine events, WineEvents, winemaker dinner, WinemakerDinner

Information provided by http://www.luxist.com/

The Stratosphere's New $100 Thrill Ride

The Stratosphere's New $100 Thrill Ride

The Stratosphere isn't the best hotel in Las Vegas but it does offer a few key attractions including its rotating restaurant and the rides at the top of the tower. The resort's latest attraction will be SkyJump Las Vegas, a controlled freefall over the Las Vegas Strip. A $100 ticket gives thrill-seekers the chance to don a jump suit and get connected to high-speed "descender" machine and then leap off a small platform falling 855 feet at up to around 40 mph. The attraction is expected to open in April and will be the highest skyjump in the world. The entire experience from preparation to landing takes 30 minutes.The current rides include the Big Shot, which shoots passengers straight up 160 feet at 45 mph until they are 1,081 feet above the Strip, the X-Scream teeter-totter that sends passengers 27 feet over the edge of the Tower and Insanity, a spinning ride with a massive mechanical arm extending 64 feet over the edge of the Tower. The hotel has created a niche for itself with thrill rides capitalizing on its Space Needle-style tower.
Tags: las vegas, LasVegas, skyjump, skyjump las vegas, SkyjumpLasVegas, stratosphere, stratosphere tower, StratosphereTower

Information provided by http://www.luxist.com/

Is Contemporary African Art Ready to Jump?

The first decade of the new millennium was the domain of Latin America, Asia, Turkey and Russia. A robust art market emerged in the Middle East, which brought with it plenty of interest in the region's artist. But, what about Africa? The continent has been underrepresented in galleries and at auction, but it looks like collectors eager to try something new may be developing an appetite for African art.The region's offering is both large and incredibly diversified, according to a report by Artprice, and over the past 20 years, several African artists have been able to garner some attention at international art fairs and major exhibitions. Pieces have been featured sporadically, with a show at the Centre Pompidou in Paris in 1989 and anther two years later at the New Museum of Contemporary Art in New York. The Africa Remix exhibition toured from 2004 to 2007 ... and that's about it. There's been a bit more action in the auction market, with Sotheby's becoming the first major house to sell contemporary African art in June 1999, when it sent the Jean Pigozzi collection under the gavel in London. It generated less than $16,000 but still set a record. Since then, Sotheby's hasn't dedicated any London or New York sales to African art (aside from its work with South African auctioneer, Stephan Welz & Co). Bonhams has taken more of an interest in the category, holding an African art sale back in April and moving 64 percent of the lots offered.
Read more →
Tags: africa, art, art auction, art auctions, art market, ArtAuction, ArtAuctions, artist, Artists, ArtMarket, artwork, auction, auction house, auction houses, AuctionHouse, AuctionHouses, auctions, bonhams, BonhamsAuction, Christies, contemporary art, ContemporaryArt, sothebys, south africa, SouthAfrica

Information provided by http://www.luxist.com/

MB&F HM2-SV Watch Revealed

Just recently I introduced a teaser shot of the upcoming Sapphire Vision version of the MB&F HM2 watch, known as the HM2-SV. THe unique aspect of the watch is the large 3.6mm thick sapphire crystal that serves as the front plate of the watch in lieu of metal. The result is an ability to see the MB&F automatic movement that powers the double faced timepiece. Here now are full images of the watch showing the incredibly complex large sapphire crystal plate over the watch in its full glory. Just as expected you have a very clear view into much of the movement. I believe that the blue "vein" through the watch is the water-resisting sealant ring. The left dial of the watch displays the date and a moon phase indicator, while the right dial has jumping hours and a retrograde minute scale. There will only be 25 of this watch made. While this limited edition volume isn't unheard of, it is relatively low given how popular MB&F watches are in high-end watch lover circles. The issue is really the sapphire crystal. There are just so hard to make. Three out of four crystals break during the process of making them that takes 55 hours for the crystal alone (to cut). The hardest part is drilling the hopes for the screws. The back plate of the watch is in titanium, while the automatic rotor is 22k gold in its iconic battle ax shape. Pretty awesome watch from the world of avant garde high horology. Ariel Adams publishes the luxury watch review site aBlogtoRead.com.

Information provided by http://www.luxist.com/

Friday, January 08, 2010

Listen To The Sound Of Physics

The Turn Table is Back

www.designboom.com

Listen To The Sound Of Physics

Rhea Jeong korean designer made this record player that is operating with magnetic and auto-calibrating control. Don’t ask. In that little red sphere there is a needle, amplifier and speaker, and it spins around the record giving life to the music.

Information provided by www.elitealice.com

Miles Limited Edition by Waldemar Swierzy at Art.com

MILES DAVIS

www.art.com

Miles Limited Edition by Waldemar Swierzy at Art.com

Singer Michael Jackson Performing Premium Photographic Print by David Mcgough at Art.com

www.art.com

Singer Michael Jackson Performing Premium Photographic Print by David Mcgough at Art.com

Thursday, January 07, 2010

Van Cleef & Arpels Extraordinary Butterfly Watches

THE BUTTERFLY WATCHES

Van Cleef & Arpels Extraordinary Butterfly Watches

Staying on track has been the name of the game for Van Cleef & Arpels as they introduce some of their new for 2010 watches. Each of them is more artistic in nature than horological. So far no new movements or mechanically complex pieces for 2010 that I know of. Instead their new limited edition pieces are all complex in their dial creations. One series is the limited edition of 8 pieces per each of the 5 watches Ladies Extraordinary Butterfly watch series. The dials each represent the shape of butterflies does in a technique that is just like stained glass. Really amazing on a watch dial! These two images don't likely do the actual pieces justice that will be somewhat three dimensional in nature just like larger stained glass windows. Instead of glass, the watches use a special enamelling technique. The women's watch are each on the same 38mm wide 18k white gold cases with diamond studded bezels and lugs. There are more diamonds on the strap buckle. Inside the watches are Caliber 830P automatic mechanical movements. Names of the specific Lady Arpels Extraordinary Butterfly Series watches are Parvana, Vanessa, Euthalie, Kimama and Caligo. While I am not sure of the origin of the names, I could see a lepidopterist giving the names freely to individual specimens.Ariel Adams publishes the luxury watch review site aBlogtoRead.com.
Tags: butterflies, butterfly, SIHH 2010, Sihh2010, Van Cleef Arpels, VanCleefArpels, watch

Information provided by www.luxist.com

Thursday, December 31, 2009

xman16trs' recommendations at ThisNext

DRIVEN TO PUBLISH FOREVER AS WELL AS SERVE ELEGANTLY

Wednesday, December 30, 2009

How to Pour, Store and Pair Champagne

To be sure, champagne is the beverage of choice during the holidays, but do you know at what temperature it should be served? How should it be stored? What is the difference between vintage and non-vintage Champagne? Veuve Clicquot, the esteemed French winemaker, answers these questions and more.
What is the difference between a vintage and a non-vintage Champagne?By law in Champagne, France, you cannot display a year on the label of a bottle unless all the grapes which make up the Champagne in the bottle have been sources from one single harvest, in one single year. This is known as a vintage. Wine connoisseurs seek vintage champagnes; non-vintage blends are not as attractive and should never go for more than 10% over the regular current price, according to Veuve Clicquot.
Why buy a magnum?Magnums, which are twice the size of a regular bottle (750 ml), are optimal for aging wine: during the aging process, the wine is "breathing" even through the cork. Best vintagesAccording to Veuve Clicquot, the best vintages in Champagne since the turn of the 20th century, include the following years (from most recent to oldest); 1998, 1996, 1990, 1989, 1988, 1985, 1979, 1976, 1969, 1969, 1955, 1949, 1947, 1943, 1934, 1929, 1921, 1918, and 1904.Pouring temperatureThe pouring temperature of Champagne will vary depending on the kind you will be serving. Young non-vintage champagne, with no year on the label, should be poured around 8 degrees Celsius (46 degrees Fahrenheit). Mature wines, on the other hand, such as vintage Champagne, should be poured between 12 to 14 degrees Celsius (54 to 57 degrees Fahrenheit). Pairing Champagne with foodWhat can Champagne be served along with? Champagne goes well with pasta salads, sea food, oysters, shrimps, light fishes and antipasti. It also goes well with a cheese course as well as with many desserts.
How long can you keep Champagne?Veuve Clicquot says non-vintage champagne should be enjoyed upon release, but may be stored for up to two or three years. Vintage Champagne can age longer; from 10 to 25 years depending on the style of each vintage.
How to store ChampagneVeuve Clicquot recommends Champagne be stored in the same manner as any regular fine wine. It should be kept at a cool and continuous temperature, which is ideally 10 to 12 degrees Celsius (50 to 54 degrees Fahrenheit) or at most between 7 to 15 degrees Celsius (45 to 59 degrees Fahrenheit). In addition, Veuve Clicquot recommends a high humidity (over 75%), good ventilation and darkness to create the best conditions.What is the best way to open a bottle of Champagne?Remove the foil and the wire cage. Next, slowly twist the cork back and forth about a quarter of an inch, while allowing the pressure inside the bottle to force it up. Do not pull the cork out of the bottle; it should be gently released.
Tags: awards-main, awards-module, awards-promo, champagne, luxist-awards, main-pedia, veuve clicquot, VeuveClicquot, wine-pedia

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Monday, December 28, 2009

xman16trs' recommendations at ThisNext

DRIVEN TO PUBLISH FOREVER AS WELL AS SERVE ELEGANTLY

Friday, December 25, 2009

COMES WITH A CONCIERGE SERVICE

This is all you need???

NOW THIS IS A PHONE

You've made it to your suite in Via Reggio, she'll be here soon, and things are looking good: the champagne from Champagne has been chilled, the chef you flew in from Marbella is warming the first course, the Milanese alto is downstairs right now preparing to serenade, everything's here. Everything except those Australian frangipanis for the bath later on. They haven't arrived, and it's a little late to find flowers in this seaside town. Unless, that is, you have an Xperia Pureness handset and the Xperia Concierge service it comes with. Probably better thought of as a glass-and-black-plastic design statement than a phone, the Pureness touts itself almost as an anti-phone that focuses on "talk, text, time - a holiday from technology." Still, it's no counterculture brick: the display on that transparent glass screen has controls for web browsing, e-mail, and a media player.And, yes, a concierge, part of a package of Xperia services. If your phone stops working during one of your frequent jet-sets, they'll send you another one within 48 hours. And your 24-hour-a-day assistant will get you a table, a membership, a seat, or a booth by the dance floor in a host of cities around the world. As long as it is a lifestyle request both "legal and moral" -- that probably includes flowers -- it will be carried out by the Xperia Concierge team. The phone is £530 ($860 U.S.), the concierge service is free for the first 12 months, and those frangipanis your Man Friday was able to arrange, well, you can't put a price on the perfect Tuscan evening...
Tags: cellphone, concierge, mobile, pureness, sony, sony ericsson, SonyEricsson, xperia, Xperia Pureness, XperiaPureness

Information Provide by www.luxist.com

Cadillac To Reveal New Flagship and CTS-V coupe at Detroit

Next month at the Detroit Auto Show, Cadillac will be showing off two new cars, a high performance coupe and a new flagship. The new CTS-V coupe is the only publicly confirmed for production. The standard V6 powered CTS coupe debuted earlier this month at the LA Auto Show and the V adds the fabulous 556 hp supercharged V8 from the CTS-V sedan. The second car which is billed as a concept for now will likely become a production reality in 2011. Cadillac showed the flagship concept dubbed XTS to media last August after GM emerged from bankruptcy. The teaser photo above provides a look at the front corner. The rest of the car is inspired by the Sixteen concept of several years ago. The hood of the XTS is much shorter than the Sixteen which is concieved around a proposed new V16 engine. GM has not said what engine will be in the XTS although a turbocharged and direct injected V6 is much more likely given current economic realities. The XTS is expected to sport all wheel drive. [Source: Cadillac]
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Tags: cadillac, Cadillac CTS, cadillac cts coupe, Cadillac CTS-V, cadillac cts-v coupe, cadillac xts, CadillacCts, CadillacCts-v, CadillacCts-vCoupe, CadillacCtsCoupe, CadillacXts, Detroit, Detroit 2010, detroit auto show, Detroit2010, DetroitAutoShow

Miu Miu Python Boots

ITS IN THE SHOES

Miu Miu Python Boots

Miu Miu Python Boots
by Marsha Reid (RSS feed) — Dec 24th 2009 10:01AM
Typically boots are made to keep you warm and protect you from the elements. But as we've been seeing, many boots have transformed into booties with pep toe accents and various cut outs resulting in a resemblance to high heeled sandals rather than boots. We are definitely not complaining and enjoy the many unique roads that fashion seems to take all of us on, but sometimes we come across a piece that makes us stop and wonder what was the inspiration? Take for example these knee high boots by Miu Miu. There is no shortage of details here with an adornment of Swarovski crystals on the heel, cutouts along the entire boot, a cream colored toe with purple & silver accents that make it seem as though a snake is emerging from your toes. And this is all against multicolored python. It is certainly an interesting interpretation on all the trends we have seen in recent years. Whether or not these are wearable is a different issue. Price: $1720.
Tags: boots, miu miu, MiuMiu, python

Customized Rolex Watches With Black DLC

The used Rolex watch market is robust and maybe even a bit crowded. Why? Because pre-owned Rolex watches are big business given the fact that Rolex watches have such an incredible ability to retain value. Still, it is sometimes hard to justify buying an older model when new models exist. One good way to breathe life into older, good condition Rolex watches is to modify or customize them. That way you aren't one of legions of people who have the exact same Rolex watch. Rolex modification is a growing segment in the watch market with retailers offering everything from brand new Rolex watches that have been modified, to performing such modifications on used models. Many of these modifications have been around for years. Often involving the addition of extra gold or precious jewels such as diamonds to the watch. Recently such modifications have taken a less "blingy" route to offering modified Rolex models that have altered colors and materials. Opinions vary as to the desirability of modified Rolex watches - the same way people argue against the modification of luxury cars. Keep the Mercedes Benz stock, or take it to Brabus for a hot horsepower injection?Of the most popular trends in Rolex watch modding is the "all black look." Never has there been a factory black Rolex watch (to my knowledge). Thus, the market has met (assumed) demand and offering everything from high priced new Rolex watches with all sorts of black colored modifications, to doing the same to pre-owned Rolex watches. The latter being a better value than the highly limited new modified Rolex watches that are tough to get by all (except a host of celebrities who are gobbling up customized Rolex watches fast enough to make you think Rolex is suddenly shifting to making wallpaper). Producers of new stock Rolex watches can charge double or more than retail for the timepieces. Modified Rolex watches (new or used) are only as good as the work put into them. The process is harder than it seems. So look carefully, and know what you are looking for. The most popular forms of black color treatment are either PVD or DLC coatings (the latter being more modern, but not as well refined in all instances as the much more common PVD treatment) Time and Gems, an outfit located in Los Angeles offers a host of modified or otherwise custom altered Rolex watches. Time and Gems is not an authorized Rolex dealer, but instead specializes in the sale of used Rolex timepieces. They have recently got into the modded Rolex game and offer up a growing selection of DLC (and PVD) black Rolex Submariners, Sea-Dwellers, GMT Masters, Explorers, Milgausses, and more. The image above is of a Time and Gems DLC black Rolex Submariner watch (priced at $6,500). While modified pre-owned Rolex watches cost more than unmodified Rolex watches, they are arguably more interesting, and clearly involve a good deal of work. You can see black DLC Rolex watches from Time and Gems here. Ariel Adams publishes the luxury watch review site aBlogtoRead.com.

Pharos Marine Designs Hydrogen- and Diesel-Electric Orcageno Superyacht

What a Gift for The Billionaire who needs one?

Pharos Marine Designs Hydrogen- and Diesel-Electric <i>Orcageno</i> Superyacht

Friday, December 18, 2009

xman16trs' recommendations at ThisNext

DRIVEN TO PUBLISH FOREVER AS WELL AS SERVE ELEGANTLY

We here at YOUR DAY OFF

Just have to find this PURSE.

Gucci: Nobility Inspired Italian Craftsmanship
by Rigel Celeste (RSS feed) — Dec 15th 2009 11:32PM

Gucci has been nominated for the Luxist Awards in the category of Best Leathergoods Line, in addition to a nomination for Best Clothing Designer. Started by one man, Guccio Gucci, in Florence Italy in 1921 it was originally just a small leather goods and luggage shop that combined the master craftsmanship of Tuscan artisans with the refinement of English nobility. Gucci drew from his experience working in London's Savoy Hotel to grow his label that featured bags, trunks, gloves, shoes, and belts. The shop quickly began to attract sophisticated buyers from around Europe and the world.In the 1940s Gucci got creative when faced with a shortage of standard materials and came up with the iconic 'Bamboo Bag', which is still available today. Then in the 1950s the brand famous 'green-red-green' web was created, and in the 1960s Jackie Kennedy carried the Gucci shoulder bag and inspired the 'Jackie O' name the bag carries today. The brand continued to grow and prosper over the years, becoming a global force of tradition and innovation in luxury goods. In 1995 Gucci became a fully public company, which enabled it to reach even higher heights of success -- including being named 'the most desirable luxury brand in the world' in 2007. Want to learn even more about the history of this iconic luxury label? A special limited edition Gucci by Gucci is available at Gucci boutiques and offers a 450 page in-depth look into the brand's beginnings and its growth through the years, including previously unpublished product and celebrity photographs.Cast your vote for the Readers' Choice Awards at http://www.luxist.com/awards-vote/accessories-awards.

Information provided by www.luxist.com

Gucci: Nobility Inspired Italian Craftsmanship

Sears Discounts Jewelry For Holiday Season

Sears may not be the place you think of for fine jewelry but when it comes to deep discounts the popular brand is making sure it can't be beat. Sears has pared 40 to 60 percent off many of their items including diamond earrings and bracelets. The company has sent out a catalog, which is also available in an online form, that focuses on jewelry featurng 242 items available at deep discounts. Will this year be a jewelry holiday? Last year was an annus horribilis for the jewelry industry and everyone from the high-end couture brands to the department store chains was stuck with a lot of inventory and forced to make deep discounts. For jewelry brands the combination of year-end holiday pressure and frantic male shoppers is typically a win and so many brands are making the big push now hoping for a last minute boost. While Sears isn't where you might normally consider doing jewelry shopping they can be a great resources for simple pieces like gold hoops or stud earrings.[via BNET]
Tags: holiday discounts, holiday sales, HolidayDiscounts, HolidaySales, jewelry, sears

Information provided by www.luxist.com

Tips for Tipping

It is unfortunate that holiday tipping causes so many people anxiety. We all want to be generous but need help figuring out who to tip and how much or what to give.The golden rule seems to be that cash is king. That being said, a small gift demonstrating that you know people's likes and dislikes is a nice touch, usually best appreciated when given in addition to cash inside a card. Don't give liquor or chocolates unless you know it is a favorite item of the recipient. If you don't like to give cash there are now gift cards for everything under the sun including, Starbucks, Dunkin' Donuts, gas stations, local restaurants, town parking meters and more.There are people like your nanny, housekeeper, driver or dog walker that you may depend on everyday. In this instance a holiday tip more closely resembles a corporate bonus. Depending on their length of service, cash or a gift equal to one or two weeks of salary is the minimum and can be significantly more if they are a long term employee.
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Tags: gift cards, GiftCards, holiday tipping, HolidayTipping, tips

Information provided by www.luxist.com

Edmond Swiss Watches

Newer brand on the block is Edmond watches, not yet widely in the US but are available. The Swiss watch brand looks like a futuristic cousin of Panerai, and mostly shares their dimensions by having nicely sized 44mm wide steel watch cases that are also available with black or gold PVD finishes. The complex construction of the cases lend themselves well to the overall style of the brand - making for good looking masculine watches that display that sense of Swiss watch design refinement hard to find in the rest of the world. There are a number of models, but each currently shares the signature case design. It also has a special "Lock-ED" lever over the clasp to secure it similar to what you find in Panerai. With the lever locked the watches have 200 meters of water resistance. Crystals on the top and rear of the watch are sapphire. The pictured model is the Cap Horn in gold PVD and a technical looking, though pleasurable to read face. The bezel is in black PVD with goldtone screws. The overall feel of the watch is a sporty delight that is created by the cohesive rugged character of the watch that seems to borrow from a number of popular watch designs out there (while still being extremely unique in its own right). Movements in the watches are Swiss ETA 2824-2 automatics. Edmond watches are a cool newcomer that certainly deserve some wrist time. The pictured watch is priced reasonably at about $1,900. Ariel Adams publishes the luxury watch review site aBlogtoRead.com.
Tags: cap horn, CapHorn, Edmond, swiss, timepiece, watch, watch of the day, WatchOfTheDay