By Valery Lopez • Jun 28th, 2010 • Category: News & Noteworthy
Celebrating 150 years of beauty, creativity and quality, Macallan is honoring renowned glassmaker and jewelry designer René Lalique by bottling and auctioning off a unique 64-year-old single malt whisky in a specially made decanter.
The one-of-a-kind decanter made by Lalique, features the ‘lost wax’ procedure, which has not been used for at least 80 years. The contents of the decanter also represent the oldest Macallan whisky to ever be released by the distillery in over 186 years. The spirit features tastes of blood oranges, rosin, treacle and walnuts, cocoa chocolate, and peat smoke–a balance and depth of aromas which are often sought but rarely achieved.
The decanter is currently on a world tour where samples of the 64-year-old Macallan whisky are being auctioned in each city, along with two exquisite Lalique crystal pieces. The world tour will come to an end when the final full auction takes place at Sotheby’s in New York on November 15th, 2010.
The price is yet to be determined, but it is expected to surpass the price of the second oldest Macallan–60 years–sold to a Korean buyer in 2005 for $75,000. All proceeds will benefit “Water,” the charity that has funded 2,300 fresh water projects and brought potable water to millions of people in developing nations.
http://www.themacallan.com
~Affluent Page
Monday, June 28, 2010
The Best Suite East of Vegas
By Ethan Ampel • Jun 25th, 2010 • Category: News & Noteworthy
If you’re looking for the second-most expensive hotel suite in the country, check out the penthouse at the Four Seasons Hotel in New York. This luxurious suite definitely lives up to its $35,000-per-night rate. The sky-top palace covers the entire top floor of the hotel (4,300 square feet,) requires 850 light bulbs to keep the nine rooms properly lit and has 25- foot ceilings.
The suite also comes with a twenty-four-hour on-call butler, 360-degree views of the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building and the Statue of Liberty, a full bathroom made entirely of marble, and a guest powder room. The master bedroom’s Thai canopy bed is threaded in gold and sits only a short distance from the ultimate in relaxation-a private spa room and a bathtub with a chromatherapy option. Finally, to cap off the experience, guests are provided with a personal trainer/therapist and a driver for unlimited travel in their choice of a Mercedes Maybach or a Rolls-Royce Phantom.
~Affluent Page
[Four Seasons]
If you’re looking for the second-most expensive hotel suite in the country, check out the penthouse at the Four Seasons Hotel in New York. This luxurious suite definitely lives up to its $35,000-per-night rate. The sky-top palace covers the entire top floor of the hotel (4,300 square feet,) requires 850 light bulbs to keep the nine rooms properly lit and has 25- foot ceilings.
The suite also comes with a twenty-four-hour on-call butler, 360-degree views of the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building and the Statue of Liberty, a full bathroom made entirely of marble, and a guest powder room. The master bedroom’s Thai canopy bed is threaded in gold and sits only a short distance from the ultimate in relaxation-a private spa room and a bathtub with a chromatherapy option. Finally, to cap off the experience, guests are provided with a personal trainer/therapist and a driver for unlimited travel in their choice of a Mercedes Maybach or a Rolls-Royce Phantom.
~Affluent Page
[Four Seasons]
Mercedes’ New E-Cell: Electricity in Motion
By Andrew Seagrave • Jun 25th, 2010 • Category: Automobile, News & Noteworthy
Mercedes is taking the SLS AMG gasoline-powered Gullwing coupe to the next level. The E-Cell, Mercedes’ latest contribution to the “green” movement, is a lithium-ion battery powered rocket loaded with four engines that sit near each wheel and produce 526 horsepower while cranking out 649 pound-feet of torque. On a good day, the Mercedes prototype can do 0 to 60 in under 4 seconds, roughly the time it takes to roll down your window.
AMG engineers swapped out the old model’s wishbone suspension with multilink front suspension and gave the car ceramic composite brakes that help recharge the batteries every time the driver decelerates–which hopefully won’t be too often. Inside, you’ll find a sleek and sporty cockpit trimmed in black-and-white leather and Alcantara. Who doesn’t love Alcantara? The dashboard features a new center stack with a 10-inch touch screen monitor that controls navigation, climate and audio systems so that you can give the road your undivided attention.
According to the fine folks at Mercedes, the SLS AMG E-Cell price tag is expected to exceed the $183,000 gas-powered model, and should be available by 2013.
For updates and additional information, go to www.mbusa.com
~Affluent Page
Mercedes is taking the SLS AMG gasoline-powered Gullwing coupe to the next level. The E-Cell, Mercedes’ latest contribution to the “green” movement, is a lithium-ion battery powered rocket loaded with four engines that sit near each wheel and produce 526 horsepower while cranking out 649 pound-feet of torque. On a good day, the Mercedes prototype can do 0 to 60 in under 4 seconds, roughly the time it takes to roll down your window.
AMG engineers swapped out the old model’s wishbone suspension with multilink front suspension and gave the car ceramic composite brakes that help recharge the batteries every time the driver decelerates–which hopefully won’t be too often. Inside, you’ll find a sleek and sporty cockpit trimmed in black-and-white leather and Alcantara. Who doesn’t love Alcantara? The dashboard features a new center stack with a 10-inch touch screen monitor that controls navigation, climate and audio systems so that you can give the road your undivided attention.
According to the fine folks at Mercedes, the SLS AMG E-Cell price tag is expected to exceed the $183,000 gas-powered model, and should be available by 2013.
For updates and additional information, go to www.mbusa.com
~Affluent Page
Range Rover and OverFinch Partner with Holland & Holland to Offer Luxury Off-Roader
By Andrew Seagrave • Jun 24th, 2010 • Category: Automobile, News & Noteworthy
If you really know how to enjoy all aspects of your life, Range Rover, Overfinch and Holland & Holland have just the ticket. The three have joined together to create a $180,000 all-purpose sport utility vehicle designed to cater to the discerning off-roader who likes to get rough in style. Only 100 of these high-end land marauders were produced, so before you decide to add this hard-core machine to your car entourage, you better be up for the challenge.
With a blown 503-horse power gasoline-V8 (or diesel TD-V8) under the hood, a spacious backseat console/fridge, and a liquor cabinet (filled with an assortment of liquor courtesy of Range Rover), it’s clear that this ride was conceived with the affluent outdoor man in mind. In addition to the rugged body, custom interior and unique exterior trim, Range Rover has partnered with Holland & Holland to include two custom-made firearms built to match the vehicle’s trim and cabinetry, a hand-crafted gun cabinet, and luggage compartments for additional guns and ammunition.
See more of Land Rover’s collection at http://www.landrover.com
~Affluent Page
If you really know how to enjoy all aspects of your life, Range Rover, Overfinch and Holland & Holland have just the ticket. The three have joined together to create a $180,000 all-purpose sport utility vehicle designed to cater to the discerning off-roader who likes to get rough in style. Only 100 of these high-end land marauders were produced, so before you decide to add this hard-core machine to your car entourage, you better be up for the challenge.
With a blown 503-horse power gasoline-V8 (or diesel TD-V8) under the hood, a spacious backseat console/fridge, and a liquor cabinet (filled with an assortment of liquor courtesy of Range Rover), it’s clear that this ride was conceived with the affluent outdoor man in mind. In addition to the rugged body, custom interior and unique exterior trim, Range Rover has partnered with Holland & Holland to include two custom-made firearms built to match the vehicle’s trim and cabinetry, a hand-crafted gun cabinet, and luggage compartments for additional guns and ammunition.
See more of Land Rover’s collection at http://www.landrover.com
~Affluent Page
Embraer’s Phenom 300 Embarks on a 40-City Tour
By Andrew Seagrave • Jun 24th, 2010 • Category: Aviation, News & Noteworthy, Travel
“We are extremely excited to travel the country and show people first-hand, a plane that integrates exceptional performance and spacious comfort at a fraction of the cost you would expect to pay for an aircraft of its caliber,” says Heublein. Some of the Phenom’s features include a spacious, lightweight cabin built to accommodate up to 7 passengers, the latest in advanced safety equipment, and a surprising $1,400 per hour rate, which creates an average saving of 25%.
For more info on tour dates, locations, and RSVP information visit http://www.flightoptions.com/phenom-tour.html
~Affluent Page
Flight Options, a leading aircraft fractional ownership company boldly claims that its newest aircraft, the Phenom 300, literally “renders the competition obsolete”. ”The Phenom 300 must be seen to truly understand how it exceeds every other jet aircraft in its class,” says Jay Heublein, Vice President of Sales and Marketing.
Currently, the Flight Options team is on the road dazzling audiences with the 300’s unequaled performance and operational efficiency. The tour, expected to last until mid-July, plans to hit such major cities as New York, Dallas, Chicago, and Las Vegas.“We are extremely excited to travel the country and show people first-hand, a plane that integrates exceptional performance and spacious comfort at a fraction of the cost you would expect to pay for an aircraft of its caliber,” says Heublein. Some of the Phenom’s features include a spacious, lightweight cabin built to accommodate up to 7 passengers, the latest in advanced safety equipment, and a surprising $1,400 per hour rate, which creates an average saving of 25%.
For more info on tour dates, locations, and RSVP information visit http://www.flightoptions.com/phenom-tour.html
~Affluent Page
Maximilian Büsser & Friends HM4 “Thunderbolt” Watch Coming July 7th
By Andrew Seagrave • Jun 24th, 2010 • Category: Horology, News & Noteworthy
Maximilian Büsser & Friends are known for producing some of the most radical horological machines on the market. In just a few weeks, they’ll be releasing their newest and most intriguing timepiece yet, the Horological Machine Number 4, otherwise known as the ”Thunderbolt.”
At first glance, when you look at this exclusive image of the HMN4, you won’t quite know what to think. But after a more intense look, you’ll slowly recognize and be shocked to find out that the design was inspired by the A-10 Warthog, a classic military plane used by the United States Air Force in the 1970’s. Amazingly this watch has been under development for 3 years and is made up of an unprecedented 311 pieces. This dream watch, which was specifically designed for Max Busser, founder of MB&F, will have two crowns–one for winding the watch and the other for adjusting the time.
Though we won’t see the full watch in all its glory–or know its price–until July 7th, it’s clear that much like their timepieces, ”MB&F has once again used their synergy to become much greater than the sum of their parts”. Stay tuned for updates.
~Affluent Page
MB&F
Maximilian Büsser & Friends are known for producing some of the most radical horological machines on the market. In just a few weeks, they’ll be releasing their newest and most intriguing timepiece yet, the Horological Machine Number 4, otherwise known as the ”Thunderbolt.”
At first glance, when you look at this exclusive image of the HMN4, you won’t quite know what to think. But after a more intense look, you’ll slowly recognize and be shocked to find out that the design was inspired by the A-10 Warthog, a classic military plane used by the United States Air Force in the 1970’s. Amazingly this watch has been under development for 3 years and is made up of an unprecedented 311 pieces. This dream watch, which was specifically designed for Max Busser, founder of MB&F, will have two crowns–one for winding the watch and the other for adjusting the time.
Though we won’t see the full watch in all its glory–or know its price–until July 7th, it’s clear that much like their timepieces, ”MB&F has once again used their synergy to become much greater than the sum of their parts”. Stay tuned for updates.
~Affluent Page
MB&F
London Art Auction Expected to be Most Valuable Ever
By Valery Lopez • Jun 23rd, 2010 • Category: News & Noteworthy
A once in a lifetime opportunity to own a piece of history has just arrived. On behalf of the Andrew Lloyd Webber Foundation, Christie’s department of Impressionist & Modern Art in London will host an auction featuring 63 of the world’s most famous works of art. Among those, Pablo Picasso’s Blue Period “Portrait of Angel Fernandez de Soto” (Absinthe Drinker) 1903, and Claude Monet’s “Nympheas” are both expected to sell for almost $60 million. According to Christie’s officials, “this is the most valuable art auction to ever take place in London.” The head of impressionist and modern art at Christie’s, Giovanna Bert, says that there has been a fierce international demand for “the rarest and best art in the world.”
In all, the entire collection of art being auctioned is expected to fetch between $240 and $340 million. Pieces by Klimt, Van Gogh, and Matisse are also being auctioned off. The proceeds will benefit arts, culture and heritage in Britain.
~Affluent Page
A once in a lifetime opportunity to own a piece of history has just arrived. On behalf of the Andrew Lloyd Webber Foundation, Christie’s department of Impressionist & Modern Art in London will host an auction featuring 63 of the world’s most famous works of art. Among those, Pablo Picasso’s Blue Period “Portrait of Angel Fernandez de Soto” (Absinthe Drinker) 1903, and Claude Monet’s “Nympheas” are both expected to sell for almost $60 million. According to Christie’s officials, “this is the most valuable art auction to ever take place in London.” The head of impressionist and modern art at Christie’s, Giovanna Bert, says that there has been a fierce international demand for “the rarest and best art in the world.”
In all, the entire collection of art being auctioned is expected to fetch between $240 and $340 million. Pieces by Klimt, Van Gogh, and Matisse are also being auctioned off. The proceeds will benefit arts, culture and heritage in Britain.
~Affluent Page
Amels 171 ‘Bel Abri’: Available Now for Charter
By Ethan Ampel • Jun 23rd, 2010 • Category: News & Noteworthy, Yachting
Luxury car aficionados want vehicles that are supreme in speed and style. It follows then, that they would want the same in a water vehicle. The brand new ‘171 Bel Abri’ from Amels delivers on all luxury fronts. In fact, when her designer, Tim Heywood, began mapping out the specs for the 171, he drew inspiration from the posh Italian sports cars of the early twentieth century–specifically the 1930’s. As Heywood describes it, the Bel Abri has an almost androgynous, “athletically feminine look.” While sleek and slim, she contains a luxurious twenty-meter sun deck with a Jacuzzi–giving the appearance of one seventy meters larger–and an owner’s suite that emphasizes outdoor living.
Many yachts take five full days to be approved for charter, but the 171 passed her sea trial in just one. The crew facilities, one of the vessel’s highlights, are outfitted with state-of-the-art equipment and sport a unique design that gives the staff unfettered access to the guests. At its core, the essence of the Bel Abri is high quality, speed, and a competitive starting charter price of $338,885 (275,000 euros) per week.
~Affluent Page
[Amels Holland]
Luxury car aficionados want vehicles that are supreme in speed and style. It follows then, that they would want the same in a water vehicle. The brand new ‘171 Bel Abri’ from Amels delivers on all luxury fronts. In fact, when her designer, Tim Heywood, began mapping out the specs for the 171, he drew inspiration from the posh Italian sports cars of the early twentieth century–specifically the 1930’s. As Heywood describes it, the Bel Abri has an almost androgynous, “athletically feminine look.” While sleek and slim, she contains a luxurious twenty-meter sun deck with a Jacuzzi–giving the appearance of one seventy meters larger–and an owner’s suite that emphasizes outdoor living.
Many yachts take five full days to be approved for charter, but the 171 passed her sea trial in just one. The crew facilities, one of the vessel’s highlights, are outfitted with state-of-the-art equipment and sport a unique design that gives the staff unfettered access to the guests. At its core, the essence of the Bel Abri is high quality, speed, and a competitive starting charter price of $338,885 (275,000 euros) per week.
~Affluent Page
[Amels Holland]
Urwerk Releases the CC1 Black Cobra
By timbaysinger • Jun 21st, 2010 • Category: Horology, News & Noteworthy
Urwerk recently unleashed the “Black Cobra,” the newest model (only 25 are being released) of the CC1 series. The latest incarnation of the UR-CC1, which featured a grey-gold case, has changed to a steely black. Urwerk achieved this artistic transformation by treating the grey gold with Aluminum Titane Nitride (AlTiN).
In an innovative twist on traditional watch face design, the Black Cobra scraps the conventional analog visage. Instead, Urwerk shows the time on two separate horizontal lines–one for the hour and the other for the minute. The seconds, located near the top of the face, are displayed both linearly and digitally–a world first. The bright yellow green of the numbers contrasts vividly with the black surface, giving it a “glow-in-the-dark look.”
This dynamic watch features a toothed rack that is visible through a side display panel and transfers energy from the movement to the minute cylinder. At exactly 60 minutes, the rack drops, causing the opposite end to fall and trigger the retrograde mechanism. The energy in turn, is released by the retrograde mechanism, recovered, and used to power the rotation of the jumping hour cylinder.
Price is expected to exceed $100,000.
-Affluent Page
[Urwerk]
Urwerk recently unleashed the “Black Cobra,” the newest model (only 25 are being released) of the CC1 series. The latest incarnation of the UR-CC1, which featured a grey-gold case, has changed to a steely black. Urwerk achieved this artistic transformation by treating the grey gold with Aluminum Titane Nitride (AlTiN).
In an innovative twist on traditional watch face design, the Black Cobra scraps the conventional analog visage. Instead, Urwerk shows the time on two separate horizontal lines–one for the hour and the other for the minute. The seconds, located near the top of the face, are displayed both linearly and digitally–a world first. The bright yellow green of the numbers contrasts vividly with the black surface, giving it a “glow-in-the-dark look.”
This dynamic watch features a toothed rack that is visible through a side display panel and transfers energy from the movement to the minute cylinder. At exactly 60 minutes, the rack drops, causing the opposite end to fall and trigger the retrograde mechanism. The energy in turn, is released by the retrograde mechanism, recovered, and used to power the rotation of the jumping hour cylinder.
Price is expected to exceed $100,000.
-Affluent Page
[Urwerk]
Monday, June 21, 2010
Authentic 1952 Vincent Rapide on Sale at Bonhams for Estimated $100,000
By Tim Baysinger • Jun 17th, 2010 • Category: Automobile, News & Noteworthy
An original 1952 Vincent Rapide in Chinese Red leads the list of entries for Bonham’s upcoming auction of motorcycles in January.
Having been untouched for almost fifty years, this famous model comes from Fresno, Calif. where it was originally sold by a local Fresno Indian dealer. Estimated to sell between $85,000 and $100,000, the machine only has 8,500 miles on it, and features matching numbers and the classic black California license plate. Only 11,036 Vincent motorbikes were ever produced, and of those, just 2,758 Rapide’s were made during 1948-1955. Named the “Series C” version, the Rapide has a top speed of 110 to 115 mph, and was considered the standard model of Vincent’s Black Shadow.
Taking place in the Imperial Palace and Hotel on the Las Vegas strip, the “Bonham’s Las Vegas Motorcycle Auction” is expected to showcase more than 200 motorbikes that will span every era. The auction will begin on the 6th in the afternoon.
-Affluent Page
An original 1952 Vincent Rapide in Chinese Red leads the list of entries for Bonham’s upcoming auction of motorcycles in January.
Having been untouched for almost fifty years, this famous model comes from Fresno, Calif. where it was originally sold by a local Fresno Indian dealer. Estimated to sell between $85,000 and $100,000, the machine only has 8,500 miles on it, and features matching numbers and the classic black California license plate. Only 11,036 Vincent motorbikes were ever produced, and of those, just 2,758 Rapide’s were made during 1948-1955. Named the “Series C” version, the Rapide has a top speed of 110 to 115 mph, and was considered the standard model of Vincent’s Black Shadow.
Taking place in the Imperial Palace and Hotel on the Las Vegas strip, the “Bonham’s Las Vegas Motorcycle Auction” is expected to showcase more than 200 motorbikes that will span every era. The auction will begin on the 6th in the afternoon.
-Affluent Page
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
RoMa Yacht Put on Sale for €59.5 Million
By Tim Baysinger • Jun 14th, 2010 • Category: News & Noteworthy, Yachting
Recently-completed luxury yacht RoMa has been officially put on sale through brokerage firms Edmiston Company and Merle Wood.
Completed in January by Viareggio Superyachts, this 61.8-meter ship features a steel hull and aluminum superstructure. The two 2,680 hp CAT 3516 B, 2000 kW engines provide a cruising speed of 14 knots. Espen Oeino lent their services for the naval architecture. With an 11-meter beam, RoMa’s spacious interior has enough room to sleep 12 guests and up to 18 crew members.
RoMa’s interior is a collaboration between Newcruise and Germany’s Gehr. Along with a full size master suits on the main deck, there are four guest cabins that include a VIP suite that is located on the bridge deck. Aside from the accommodations, this superyacht also features a gym, Jacuzzi, cinema, game room and a large pool.
RoMa is for sale through Merle Wood’s website, and has an asking price of €59.5 million.
-Affluent Page
http://www.affluentpageluxuryindex.com/
Recently-completed luxury yacht RoMa has been officially put on sale through brokerage firms Edmiston Company and Merle Wood.
Completed in January by Viareggio Superyachts, this 61.8-meter ship features a steel hull and aluminum superstructure. The two 2,680 hp CAT 3516 B, 2000 kW engines provide a cruising speed of 14 knots. Espen Oeino lent their services for the naval architecture. With an 11-meter beam, RoMa’s spacious interior has enough room to sleep 12 guests and up to 18 crew members.
RoMa’s interior is a collaboration between Newcruise and Germany’s Gehr. Along with a full size master suits on the main deck, there are four guest cabins that include a VIP suite that is located on the bridge deck. Aside from the accommodations, this superyacht also features a gym, Jacuzzi, cinema, game room and a large pool.
RoMa is for sale through Merle Wood’s website, and has an asking price of €59.5 million.
-Affluent Page
http://www.affluentpageluxuryindex.com/
Four Seasons Hangzhou at West Lake to Open Late This Summer
By Dana O'Keefe • Jun 10th, 2010 • Category: News & Noteworthy, Travel
Hangzhou, China was once dubbed the “City of Heaven” by Marco Polo, and at the end of this summer it will also be home to the the Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at West Lake. The hotel is just 45 minutes from the Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport, and will be a mere 38 minutes from Shanghai when construction on the long awaited Shanghai-Hangzhou Maglev Train is completed in October.
The Maglev, with its amazingly comfortable VIP cars, will utilize magnetic levitation and reach speeds of approximately 280 miles per hour, while providing excellent views of some of China’s most beautiful landscapes. This new method of transportation conveniently links the two cities for the traveler who prioritizes the destination above a lengthy journey.
Upon arrival, the Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at West Lake immediately offers a unique experience by synthesizing traditional Chinese architecture with the most modern technologies and luxurious amenities. The Hotel features 81 guestrooms, including 7 suites and 3 residential villas. Decorated in the traditional Jiang Nan style, the grounds are composed of several pagoda-like buildings lining a series of lagoons and streams. The pristine walkways wind through 9 acres of bamboo groves and are the perfect way to explore the hotel grounds and admire the ornate architecture, which blends seamlessly into the surrounding environment.
Guests can choose from an executive suite, a premier room, and a deluxe room with or without a terrace. The Lake, Lagoon and Lotus Suites all exceed 1300 square feet and feature some of the best scenic views in the hotel. The Presidential Villa and the Garden Villa are each 10,000 square feet, and come complete with three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a private garden and swimming pool.
Jin Sha, the Four Season’s main restaurant, features classic Shanghainese and Cantonese dishes that can be enjoyed in the chic dining room, bustling bar, or in one of Jin Sha’s eleven private dining pavilions. Featuring both indoor and outdoor space, these elegant, secluded pavilions are open to parties of 6-16 people, and are perfect for intimate dinner parties, or important business meetings. The West Lake Bistro, also known as WLB, is the other in-house restaurant. Serving both Asian and Western cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the bistro is a more casual dining option and offers round-the-clock in-room service.
The Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at West Lake is also equipped with two contemporary lounges, spacious conference rooms, and an extravagant ballroom.. The Lobby Lounge, located next to the reception area, offers a traditional afternoon tea service daily and provides a welcoming place to meet or just relax. The Bar, often referred to as the heart of the hotel’s social scene, serves premium quality liqueur and champagne in a modern space with a vibrant atmosphere. The Willow, Maple, and Pine conference rooms blend business like décor with breathtaking views and time-honored Chinese design, making them ideal for meetings and seminars. Combined, the conference spaces offer over 5,500 square feet and feature everything from state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment to readily available worldwide courier services. The sophisticated 3,444 square foot ballroom has its own lush carpeted foyer, an inviting terrace overlooking the garden lagoon, and traditional crystal chandeliers. The Spa offers treatments aptly described as “traditional rituals,” all of which are over two hours long and designed to engage the senses. There is a particular emphasis on smell and all treatments utilize aromatherapy. The Emperor’s bath ritual is a modern twist on the ancient tradition of herbal bathing, complete with full-body exfoliation, steam, and hot stone massage. The spa also offers treatments inspired by The Pursuit of Pleasures in the Course of the Seasons, the masterpiece created for Emperor Qianlong by his court painter Chen Mei. Guests can enjoy the water lily and peony spring rites, the jade and lotus summer rites, moon and chrysanthemum autumn rites, and lantern and plum-blossom winter rites. Each are designed for maximum comfort and relaxation during the appropriate season.
Hangzhou’s most prominent attractions are located only moments from the Four Seasons. West Lake, most often described by visitors as “enchanting,” features a sprawling 1500-acre Chinese garden, and is surrounded on three sides by mountain landscape. The other side of the lake faces the skyline of the city, where you can shop in the Hubin or Wulin districts for famous Chinese and international brands. Qing He Fang Street is most famous for its ancient shops and abundance of local cuisine. The Lingyin Temple, one of China’s largest and most affluent Buddhist temples is located only moments from the hotel, and is home to many famous cliff-side stone carvings and towering pagodas. The China Silk Museum, the Museum of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and one of China’s six ancient towns, Wuzhen, are also popular destinations in close proximity. For more recreational options, the city of Hangzhou also has a Jack Nicklaus designed golf course and a tennis stadium.
The Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at West Lake is currently accepting reservations for arrival dates beginning October 1st, 2010. Rooms start at $400 a night and vary depending on requested amenities.
-Affluent Page
http://www.affluentpageluxuryindex.com/
Hangzhou, China was once dubbed the “City of Heaven” by Marco Polo, and at the end of this summer it will also be home to the the Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at West Lake. The hotel is just 45 minutes from the Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport, and will be a mere 38 minutes from Shanghai when construction on the long awaited Shanghai-Hangzhou Maglev Train is completed in October.
The Maglev, with its amazingly comfortable VIP cars, will utilize magnetic levitation and reach speeds of approximately 280 miles per hour, while providing excellent views of some of China’s most beautiful landscapes. This new method of transportation conveniently links the two cities for the traveler who prioritizes the destination above a lengthy journey.
Upon arrival, the Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at West Lake immediately offers a unique experience by synthesizing traditional Chinese architecture with the most modern technologies and luxurious amenities. The Hotel features 81 guestrooms, including 7 suites and 3 residential villas. Decorated in the traditional Jiang Nan style, the grounds are composed of several pagoda-like buildings lining a series of lagoons and streams. The pristine walkways wind through 9 acres of bamboo groves and are the perfect way to explore the hotel grounds and admire the ornate architecture, which blends seamlessly into the surrounding environment.
Guests can choose from an executive suite, a premier room, and a deluxe room with or without a terrace. The Lake, Lagoon and Lotus Suites all exceed 1300 square feet and feature some of the best scenic views in the hotel. The Presidential Villa and the Garden Villa are each 10,000 square feet, and come complete with three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a private garden and swimming pool.
Jin Sha, the Four Season’s main restaurant, features classic Shanghainese and Cantonese dishes that can be enjoyed in the chic dining room, bustling bar, or in one of Jin Sha’s eleven private dining pavilions. Featuring both indoor and outdoor space, these elegant, secluded pavilions are open to parties of 6-16 people, and are perfect for intimate dinner parties, or important business meetings. The West Lake Bistro, also known as WLB, is the other in-house restaurant. Serving both Asian and Western cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the bistro is a more casual dining option and offers round-the-clock in-room service.
The Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at West Lake is also equipped with two contemporary lounges, spacious conference rooms, and an extravagant ballroom.. The Lobby Lounge, located next to the reception area, offers a traditional afternoon tea service daily and provides a welcoming place to meet or just relax. The Bar, often referred to as the heart of the hotel’s social scene, serves premium quality liqueur and champagne in a modern space with a vibrant atmosphere. The Willow, Maple, and Pine conference rooms blend business like décor with breathtaking views and time-honored Chinese design, making them ideal for meetings and seminars. Combined, the conference spaces offer over 5,500 square feet and feature everything from state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment to readily available worldwide courier services. The sophisticated 3,444 square foot ballroom has its own lush carpeted foyer, an inviting terrace overlooking the garden lagoon, and traditional crystal chandeliers. The Spa offers treatments aptly described as “traditional rituals,” all of which are over two hours long and designed to engage the senses. There is a particular emphasis on smell and all treatments utilize aromatherapy. The Emperor’s bath ritual is a modern twist on the ancient tradition of herbal bathing, complete with full-body exfoliation, steam, and hot stone massage. The spa also offers treatments inspired by The Pursuit of Pleasures in the Course of the Seasons, the masterpiece created for Emperor Qianlong by his court painter Chen Mei. Guests can enjoy the water lily and peony spring rites, the jade and lotus summer rites, moon and chrysanthemum autumn rites, and lantern and plum-blossom winter rites. Each are designed for maximum comfort and relaxation during the appropriate season.
Hangzhou’s most prominent attractions are located only moments from the Four Seasons. West Lake, most often described by visitors as “enchanting,” features a sprawling 1500-acre Chinese garden, and is surrounded on three sides by mountain landscape. The other side of the lake faces the skyline of the city, where you can shop in the Hubin or Wulin districts for famous Chinese and international brands. Qing He Fang Street is most famous for its ancient shops and abundance of local cuisine. The Lingyin Temple, one of China’s largest and most affluent Buddhist temples is located only moments from the hotel, and is home to many famous cliff-side stone carvings and towering pagodas. The China Silk Museum, the Museum of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and one of China’s six ancient towns, Wuzhen, are also popular destinations in close proximity. For more recreational options, the city of Hangzhou also has a Jack Nicklaus designed golf course and a tennis stadium.
The Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at West Lake is currently accepting reservations for arrival dates beginning October 1st, 2010. Rooms start at $400 a night and vary depending on requested amenities.
-Affluent Page
http://www.affluentpageluxuryindex.com/
W Hotels Announce 2013 UAE Debut
By Alex Neely • Jun 9th, 2010 • Category: News & Noteworthy, Travel
In an effort to bolster the revitalization surrounding the waterfront of Al Bateen Wharf, the hotel industry innovator – W Hotels Worldwide – has announced the 2013 debut in United Arab Emirates.
Formerly convoluted with mud huts, the United Arab Emirates has been under constant rejuvenation since 1971, when they officially gained their independence. Today, UAE continues their redevelopment through the construction of the 54,000 square meters, Al Bateen Wharf. Designed in a San Francisco-style Fisherman’s Marina, the Al Bateen Wharf has recently become the exclusive destination of the future.
Rising high above the marina, W Abu Dhabi will be integrate a multi-component development, including high-end retail stores, restaurants and residences, all while presenting stunning views of the open sea.
The hotel, itself, will feature an estimated 350 “stylish” guest rooms, which include the 25 suites and two “Extreme Wow” suites (W’s interpretation of a Presidential Suite) designed in traditional W Hotel opulence. Each room will provide guests with W Hotel’s signature bed – a feather-top mattress, 350 thread-count cotton sheets, and goose down comforter.
In addition, guests will have the opportunity to indulge in a signature spa with 12 treatment rooms, three restaurants, a lounge, and a rooftop night club. As in past W Hotels, W Abu Dhabi will also provide the exclusive signature Living Room experience (“W’s transformation of the traditional lobby”), five elegant WET pools and SWEAT (“W’s state-of-the-art fitness center”).
While W Abu Dhabi promises to “fulfill lavish desires” inside the hotel, their “Whatever/Whenever” program offers unique exclusivity, “from an adventurous desert safari to exploring the Arabian Gulf on a private yacht.
Although the Al Bateen district is regarded as the oldest occupied area of the UAE capital, W Hotels is guaranteed to fuse heritage and tradition with vivid innovation.
~Affluent Page
http://www.affluentpageluxuryindex.com/
In an effort to bolster the revitalization surrounding the waterfront of Al Bateen Wharf, the hotel industry innovator – W Hotels Worldwide – has announced the 2013 debut in United Arab Emirates.
Formerly convoluted with mud huts, the United Arab Emirates has been under constant rejuvenation since 1971, when they officially gained their independence. Today, UAE continues their redevelopment through the construction of the 54,000 square meters, Al Bateen Wharf. Designed in a San Francisco-style Fisherman’s Marina, the Al Bateen Wharf has recently become the exclusive destination of the future.
Rising high above the marina, W Abu Dhabi will be integrate a multi-component development, including high-end retail stores, restaurants and residences, all while presenting stunning views of the open sea.
The hotel, itself, will feature an estimated 350 “stylish” guest rooms, which include the 25 suites and two “Extreme Wow” suites (W’s interpretation of a Presidential Suite) designed in traditional W Hotel opulence. Each room will provide guests with W Hotel’s signature bed – a feather-top mattress, 350 thread-count cotton sheets, and goose down comforter.
In addition, guests will have the opportunity to indulge in a signature spa with 12 treatment rooms, three restaurants, a lounge, and a rooftop night club. As in past W Hotels, W Abu Dhabi will also provide the exclusive signature Living Room experience (“W’s transformation of the traditional lobby”), five elegant WET pools and SWEAT (“W’s state-of-the-art fitness center”).
While W Abu Dhabi promises to “fulfill lavish desires” inside the hotel, their “Whatever/Whenever” program offers unique exclusivity, “from an adventurous desert safari to exploring the Arabian Gulf on a private yacht.
Although the Al Bateen district is regarded as the oldest occupied area of the UAE capital, W Hotels is guaranteed to fuse heritage and tradition with vivid innovation.
~Affluent Page
http://www.affluentpageluxuryindex.com/
Yves Klein Painting to Sell at Sotheby’s for an Estimated £6.5 Million
By Michelle Grosberg • Jun 9th, 2010 • Category: News & Noteworthy
In the recent months, the world has witnessed a number of unbelievable contemporary art sales. From the record breaking $32.6 million Andy Warhol Self-Portrait (1986) to the $12 million Yves Klein’s ANT 93, Le Buffle (1960-1961), there is no doubt that contemporary art has become a precious international commodity.
At 7 p.m. on June 28th, auctioneers, collectors and buyers will gather together at Sotheby’s Contemporary Art Evening Auction to view and bid on pieces from some of the most influential artists of the 20th century. Leading the lot will be Yves Klein’s stunning RE 49 (1961), valued at an estimated rate of £6.5 million.
The iconic blue shade made famous by Klein engulfs the canvas and transcends the two-dimensional surface, both literally and figuratively. The RE 49 (1961), which measures 48.5 by 38.5 inches, also features pebbles and natural sponges pasted down on the canvas below the surface of dried paint. The actual equipment and apparatus’ used to create the work has been embalmed, or mummified, within the piece, as though to mold together “subject” and “object,”, creating a single entity.
Also being featured at Sotheby’s Contemporary Art Evening Auction is Andy Warhol’s. Camouflage Self-Portrait (1986). Created a mere year before his untimely death, Camouflage Self-Portrait (1986) portrays a close up of the artist’s face against a stark black background. As though floating in an eerie abyss, Warhol’s face is the eye-catching focal point of the piece, as it is highlighted with bright shades of pink, orange, blue and yellow in the cliché camouflage print. The 40 by 40 inch silkscreen is estimated to sell at £ 2.5 million.
Other highlights of the evening sale include Lucio Fantana’s Concetto Spanziale, La Fine Di Dio (1963), Gerhard Richter’s Neger (1964) and Frank Auerbach’s Mornington Crescent-Summer Morning (1991). (Pictured)
-Affluent Page
http://www.affluentpageluxuryindex.com/
In the recent months, the world has witnessed a number of unbelievable contemporary art sales. From the record breaking $32.6 million Andy Warhol Self-Portrait (1986) to the $12 million Yves Klein’s ANT 93, Le Buffle (1960-1961), there is no doubt that contemporary art has become a precious international commodity.
At 7 p.m. on June 28th, auctioneers, collectors and buyers will gather together at Sotheby’s Contemporary Art Evening Auction to view and bid on pieces from some of the most influential artists of the 20th century. Leading the lot will be Yves Klein’s stunning RE 49 (1961), valued at an estimated rate of £6.5 million.
The iconic blue shade made famous by Klein engulfs the canvas and transcends the two-dimensional surface, both literally and figuratively. The RE 49 (1961), which measures 48.5 by 38.5 inches, also features pebbles and natural sponges pasted down on the canvas below the surface of dried paint. The actual equipment and apparatus’ used to create the work has been embalmed, or mummified, within the piece, as though to mold together “subject” and “object,”, creating a single entity.
Also being featured at Sotheby’s Contemporary Art Evening Auction is Andy Warhol’s. Camouflage Self-Portrait (1986). Created a mere year before his untimely death, Camouflage Self-Portrait (1986) portrays a close up of the artist’s face against a stark black background. As though floating in an eerie abyss, Warhol’s face is the eye-catching focal point of the piece, as it is highlighted with bright shades of pink, orange, blue and yellow in the cliché camouflage print. The 40 by 40 inch silkscreen is estimated to sell at £ 2.5 million.
Other highlights of the evening sale include Lucio Fantana’s Concetto Spanziale, La Fine Di Dio (1963), Gerhard Richter’s Neger (1964) and Frank Auerbach’s Mornington Crescent-Summer Morning (1991). (Pictured)
-Affluent Page
http://www.affluentpageluxuryindex.com/
Van Cleef & Arpels to Unveil Jules Verne Inspired Jewelry Collection at Paris Haute Couture
By Michelle Grosberg • Jun 8th, 2010 • Category: Jewelry, News & Noteworthy
Van Cleef & Arpels, will be unveiling their most recent collection of high jewelry this July at Paris Haute Couture.
The collection, entitled “Les Voyages Extraordinaires,” is the latest in a long line of incredibly creative masterpieces. Van Cleef & Arpels has a history of producing sophisticated high jewelry inspired by mystical narratives and enchanting images. Past collections include “Midsummer Night’s Dream,” which features elegant pieces such as the “Folie des Pres Solitaire,” a ring with white gold, diamonds, yellow sapphires and a yellow cushion sapphire boasting 9.79 carats.
The Les Voyages Extraordinaires collection, inspired by the work of the legendary author Jules Verne, will be on display at Paris Haute Couture from July 5th to July 8th, and make its official debut on September 15th, at the XXV Paris Biennale des Antiquities.
Van Cleef & Arpels, will be unveiling their most recent collection of high jewelry this July at Paris Haute Couture.
The collection, entitled “Les Voyages Extraordinaires,” is the latest in a long line of incredibly creative masterpieces. Van Cleef & Arpels has a history of producing sophisticated high jewelry inspired by mystical narratives and enchanting images. Past collections include “Midsummer Night’s Dream,” which features elegant pieces such as the “Folie des Pres Solitaire,” a ring with white gold, diamonds, yellow sapphires and a yellow cushion sapphire boasting 9.79 carats.
The Les Voyages Extraordinaires collection, inspired by the work of the legendary author Jules Verne, will be on display at Paris Haute Couture from July 5th to July 8th, and make its official debut on September 15th, at the XXV Paris Biennale des Antiquities.
-Affluent Page
Established and Sons Offers the Iconic “Aqua Table” for £19,500
Equally unique and modern in appearance, the Aqua Table is one of the most sought after products in the Established and Sons furniture collection. Created by world-renowned designer, Zaha Hadid, the limited-edition Aqua Table has a retail price of £19,500.
While fulfilling its intended functions as a dining or conference table, the product can truly be perceived as a fine art sculpture. Although stoic by nature, its innovative design eludes the perception of motion. Using silicon for a surface and laminated polyurothene resin for its body, Hadid’s Aqua Table, which measures 4000 mm by 750 mm, makes a bold and powerful statement.
The fluid-like fashion of the piece has caused international excitement and caught the attention and appeal of numerous high art establishments and collectors. In fact, Phillips de Pury’s Auction House sold one of the two edition prototypes for $269.000. The piece was also sold for $150,000 at the Guggenheim International Gala Auction.
For further information or purchasing inquiries, contact Established and Sons at +44 (0)20 7608 0990 or email at info@establishedandsons.com.
-Affluent Page
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