Lifestyle

Art & Design, In own affaires, Lifestyle, Polo News

The new issues of POLO+10 German and POLO+10 WORLD will go to press in just 4 weeks

9. March 2022

POLO+10 offers the best opportunity to present your business to the niche market of the global polo community and their luxury lifestyle living fans and followers.

Contact POLO+10 now to explore the options of sharing about your high-end lifestyle serving products and offers, your club insights or tournaments to the exclusive polo market. With POLO+10 you can flexibly combine print and digital media advertising to maximize your reach. Deadline for print advertisements is April 4^th, 2022.

The covers of the next POLO+10 issues are dedicated to Adolfo Cambiaso and Barto Castagnola.

Check out the front cover of the next German POLO+10 issue: Barto Castagnola arriving at La Natividad’s palenque, celebrating after winning their semi-final game against RS Murus Sanctus and securing a place in the Argentine Open HSBC final, December 2021.

Adolfo Cambiaso himself is shown on the cover of POLO+10 WORLD. Iconic player of La Dolfina, smiling at someone in the audience while changing poneys mid-field during the Argentine Open HSBC, December 2021.

Many thanks to Wendy Falourd who shot both covers © wfldphotography

As always, we will share the latest news from the international polo community: a review of the most important events, new polo formats in the USA, new impulses in Africa, interviews, personalities, opinions and interesting lifestyle and travel topics.

Do not miss out: Subscribe to POLO+10 WORLD for Spring and Autumn 2022 here: subscription@poloplus10.com

All media data for corporate publishing and PR can be found at

Download Media Kit POLO+10

POLO+10 offers the best opportunity to present your business to the niche market of the global polo community and their luxury lifestyle living fans and followers. Contact POLO+10 now to…

Lifestyle, Personalities & Clubs, Polo News

Wendy Falourd: Polo, Lifestyle and Travel Photography

7. March 2022

“Photography has always been one of the most powerful means of expression and transmission, and I feel proud to be able to use it in my own way to tell my life experiences.”

Tell us a bit about yourself ?
I was born in the South-West of France, near Bordeaux. Then in 2004, for my dad’s work, we moved to Long Island, New York, until 2009. Those few years were life-changing as they allowed me to learn a new language at an early age and to meet many people from many different cultures. I am sure that this is what triggered my love for travel.

How long have you been around horses ?
I’ve been in the equestrian world since I was born. My mom used to ride cross country competitions when she was younger, and my dad used to be a racehorse trainer. Horses have always been a family affair.

I used to ride in show jumping until 2016 when I switched to polo. I have been fond of this world ever since.

Have you always wanted to become an equestrian photographer ?
Not at all. Initially, I wanted to dedicate my career to events and communication. After five years of post-graduate degrees and many professional experiences in high-end firms like Peretti Communications (PR agency) in London and several at Hermès in Paris, I was sure it was the path I wanted to follow.

How did photography became your new career ?
I started photography as a hobby by taking photos of my friends in show jumping competitions. Then, when I started playing polo in 2016, I also switched to polo photography. As previously mentioned, my career projects didn’t initially include photography. However, as I finished my studies in April 2020, COVID had started, and it became almost impossible to find a job in events. That is when I decided to start taking photos professionally and create my company, WF Unlimited,
in September 2020.

How would you describe your photography and where do you see it heading ?
I consider my photos to be more lifestyle than sports-oriented. I love to take action shots during a game, but my main objective is to find those unique moments on and off the field. Getting to capture emotions from the players and from the horses themselves is one of the highlights of my job. Indeed, I truly identify myself to Destin Sparks’ quote, “Photography is the Story I Fail to Put Into Words”, as the emotions that I get to immortalize are the root of my stories.

As previously said, I love to travel around the world. During my two trips to Patagonia, Argentina, I got the opportunity to photograph the life of Argentine gauchos working with their cattle. At that moment, I realized how much I loved photographing these authentic people in their environment. I feel proud to have had the ability to capture their dedication to their work and share their life story with an international community.

That is why my wish for the upcoming years is to travel around the world, discover more cultures and try to honor their lifestyles with my photography.

As Steve McCurry said:
« I can’t imagine a better life than travelling and photographing ».

Portrait of Wendy Falourd, covered in dust,
after having followed gauchos up the mountains
with their cattle in Mamuil Malal, Patagonia,
December 2021.

Photos by Wendy Falourd

@wfldphotography

“Photography has always been one of the most powerful means of expression and transmission, and I feel proud to be able to use it in my own way to tell…

Lifestyle, Polo News, Travel & Food

150 years of Villa d’Este – bravo bellezza! The legend at Lake Como celebrates its birthday

18. February 2022

Glamorous personalities, influential politicians and illustrious people – the guest list of Villa d’Este is long and 2022 will be a birthday season full of surprises

On March 3 it will be hoisted – the flag in front of Villa d’Este. This traditional ceremony heralds the 150th season of the luxury hotel on Lake Como. For 150 years now, discerning travelers and gourmets, royals, jet set and legendary Hollywood stars have resided here. They can choose between the Cardinal Building, once built as a summer residence for Cardinal Tolomeo Gallio, the Queen’s Pavilion, named after Caroline of Brunswick, Princess of Wales and Queen of England and four private villas spread across the extensive estate. Three of them – Villa Cima, Villa Malakoff and Villa Garrovo – are ideal for families and friends and the Mosaic House is the romantic hideaway for couples. To celebrate its grand anniversary, the luxury hotel will be open for the first time over the Christmas season until January 2023. For more information, visit:

www.villadeste.com

© Villa d‘Este

Villa d’Este is a place that has always captivated travelers. Once the noble summer residence of Cardinal Tolomeo Gallio, the stately home is now a legend. In 1873, a group of Milanese businessmen bought the property and turned it into what it remains today: one of the most extraordinary luxury hotels in the world. Not only the location directly on the lake, but also the special atmosphere of the magnificent, ten-hectare park, which extends to the water, make the five-star hotel so special. The guest list is also legendary, from George Clooney, Robert de Niro, Naomi Campbell to Madonna, John Legend, Lady Gaga or Alfred Hitchcock – they all already went through the revolving door to happiness at Lake Como.

In the 150th season of Villa d’Este, guests can expect, in addition to the big birthday party on June 28, 2022, a mix of events, exhibitions and culinary highlights. Since 1873, the luxury hotel has been considered the chosen destination for distinguished events of. Once again, annual events known far beyond the country’s borders will take place, including the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este (May 2022, 2022), Villa d’Este Style one lake one car (May 1, 2022), Villa d’Este Style Vintage Yachting (June 12, 2022), Villa d’Este Style Electric Yachting (September 17, 2022) and grand gala dinners (July 4 and August 15, 2022). All of them are dedicated to the 150 years and are a tribute to the traditions as well as the historical anecdotes of the hotel.

© Villa d‘Este

That is also reflected in the menu. During this special season, Chef Michele Zambanini will create special menus featuring traditional dishes from 150 years of Villa d’Este. He personally harvests the ingredients, often early in the morning, in the hotel’s own kitchen garden. A small green paradise that many call the garden with the most beautiful view of Lake Como. Instead of eccentric creations, he relies on understatement in perfection: he spoils his guests with classic, authentic Italian dishes and thus remains true to his credo “authenticity instead of extravagance”. As delicate as the food is, as unparalleled is the panorama that guests enjoy in the restaurant La Veranda. The evening is perfectly rounded off with a refreshing signature cocktail. Five in number have been created especially for the anniversary season, each one dedicated to a famous owner of Villa d’Este.

Tradition and innovation have always defined the character of Villa d’Este. When guests arrive, they will find three charging stations for electric cars in the garage of the historic palace and a charging station for electric boats on the shore. In an exhibition organized especially for the anniversary season, travelers discover the historical roots of Villa d’Este from today’s perspective: “Then and Now” is the motto of the exhibition, which is spread over several stations throughout the luxury hotel and features pictures and notes steeped in history. Historical anecdotes are also promised by the themed evenings in collaboration with the Teatro Sociale di Como, which will take place on April 14 and September 22, 2022 and where culture lovers will spend an interactive evening with the actors. After numerous highlights throughout the year, the icon is pleased to welcome visitors for the first time also during Christmas season and for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve on Lake Como. And for those who also want to experience a piece of 150 years of Villa d’Este at home, a limited collection of noble accessories and travel companions can be found in the on-site store as well as in the online boutique of the luxury hotel.

© Villa d‘Este

About Villa d’Este

Villa d’Este, which belongs to The Leading Hotels of the World, houses 152 rooms and luxury suites as well as four noble private villas and is located directly on the shores of Lake Como, which with its impressive landscape is considered the most beautiful lake in Italy and stands for a lot of glamour. The legendary residence impresses not only with its extraordinary atmosphere and listed architecture, but also with its extensive park, the famous Nymphaeum with its numerous fountains and water features, and the floating pool on the lake. Villa d’Este is about 40 minutes by car from Milan Malpensa airport. For more information, visit.

www.villadeste.com

Glamorous personalities, influential politicians and illustrious people – the guest list of Villa d’Este is long and 2022 will be a birthday season full of surprises On March 3 it…

Art & Design, Lifestyle, Polo News

Gianfranco Brignone (1926-2022)

17. January 2022

It is with profound sadness that the Brignone family announces the passing of Gianfranco Brignone founder of Careyes, at the age of 95 years surrounded by his loving family.

We honour his vision, creativity, passion and perseverance which allowed for Careyes to develop into one of the most important architectural wonders of the pacific coast, resonating for all times to come: the true Magic of Careyes!

He is survived by his children Emanuela, Giorgio and Filippo and the younger generation who will in unison honour respectfully his legacy.

Born in 1926 in Turin (Italy) and one-time banker, Gianfranco flew over the jagged cliffs and jungle hills of Careyes on the Pacific Coast of Jalisco in 1968, and immediately decided to make this unique place his own personal frontier and utopia. Careyes was blessed to meet Gianfranco and he was, in return, exceptionally privileged to discover Careyes.

Deploying some of the world’s most talented and imaginative architects beginning with Marco Aldaco, Alberto Mazzoni, Diego Villaseñor and Jean-Claude Galibert — together with summoning skilled local artisans — in harmony enthusiastically embraced and realized his vision with the pivotal obsession that the landscape is essential and to be preserved: ‘I am not an Architect, but a framer of Nature’.

He developed many important architectural landmarks such as the houses Mi Ojo, Tigre del Mar with its Casa del 3000, together with the mirroring houses Sol de Oriente and Occidente amongst many others, always designing without any straight lines, as they don’t exist in the environment and utilizing mathematical measurements based on the number twenty-seven.

`I have given my life for my dreams and my dreams have given me life.` — GFB

‚One eye to see and one to feel’ he once said and, on this hue, he designed and built beautiful land interventions such as the Ojo de Venado, Arbol de Corazón, and Copa del Sol of which images have circulated all over the world as a result of their strength and vibrancy.

For over 50 years, Gianfranco has closely guarded and preserved the 15km of coastline and beaches of Careyes, which encompasses a wild, virtually uninhabited area, stretching along the Pacific shoreline, and includes about 2000 hectares of jungle, mangroves and cliffs.

Together with the Careyes Foundation established to catalyse innovative programs in education, sports, ecology, and the arts to improve the well-being of local communities along the South Pacific coast of Mexico. The Sea Turtle Protection & Conservation Center was opened in 1983 releasing over 1.9 million new-born sea turtles safely into the ocean.

Careyes has now become one of the rare sustainable and socially responsible communities in Mexico counting more than 42 different nationalities and 287 Caballeros y Damas del Sol.

In September of 2006, he was honoured the “Orden Mexicana del Águila Azteca” from Mexican President Vicente Fox, the highest achievement for a foreigner in recognition his work over the years.

Copyright © 2022 Costa Careyes, All rights reserved.

It is with profound sadness that the Brignone family announces the passing of Gianfranco Brignone founder of Careyes, at the age of 95 years surrounded by his loving family. We…

Lifestyle, Polo News, Real Estate

Vladi Private Islands sells the largest private island in the continental USA

13. January 2022

Vladi Private Islands is pleased to announce the sale of a very special property at the beginning of the year: Galloo Island – the largest private island in the continental United States and one of the most beautiful islands in North America – was sold in December 2021 through Vladi Private Islands, Hamburg.

Located in Lake Ontario in the state of New York, the island has an area of 8 km², the same size as the island of Venice. It features a private airstrip, two beaches, spacious houses, its own harbour with farmland and a forest area with wonderful wildlife.

Galloo Island is very sheltered and resembles a small kingdom of its own, which is also ideal for a self-sufficient lifestyle. Boat trips are possible to Niagara Falls on one side or through the 1000 Islands River via Singer Castle Island to the ocean on the other. The mainland and the town of Watertown with its various amenities are only a few minutes away by boat.

As island brokers in Hamburg, we have been active in this field for 50 years and are proud to have sold this unique property in cooperation with our local colleague Cathy Garlock to an American private individual.

[ngg src=”galleries” ids=”1215″ display=”basic_thumbnail” thumbnail_crop=”0″]©Vladi Private Islands / www.vladi-private-islands.de

Vladi Private Islands is pleased to announce the sale of a very special property at the beginning of the year: Galloo Island – the largest private island in the continental…

Europe, In own affaires, Lifestyle, Polo News

6 tips animal physiotherapist and -osteopath Julia Greb…

7. January 2022

…how to improve your horse’s health in everyday life!

Many horse riders only think about how to improve their horse´s health when it is already suffering from injuries and diseases. Julia Greb explains that horse owners would be much better advised to act proactively and contribute something to the health of their horse every day. Julia speaks from her own experience as a physiotherapist and osteopath for horses. She knows the aspects that owners have to consider in order to have a healthy horse by their side for many years. In this article the horse expert reveals six tips horse owners should follow every day in order to keep their animal in good shape for as long as
possible.

Tip 1: Cleaning as a massage

What many horse owners do not know is cleaning the horse is not just about removing superficial dirt. It also has important animal health benefits. With a rubber curl you can achieve a massage effect by doing circular movements and thus improve the blood circulation in the horse’s muscles.

Tip 2: Mental training

Horses enjoy games and intellectual challenges as much as humans do. The mental work not only improves the horse’s attention, but also its physical perception, as Julia Greb knows from her years of work with the animals. Pylons and poles are a great way to change things up and improve a horse’s coordination.

Tip 3: Pay attention to the diet

When it comes to nutrition, not all horses are the same. A horse that is ridden little or irregularly has a different energy requirement than a high-performance horse. Accordingly, you should adapt the basic and additional feed to the training and figure of your horse, says Julia. Otherwise, a long-term “malnutrition” of the animal can lead to serious health problems.

Tip 4: Keep moving

Regardless of whether you own a younger or an older horse – movement keeps them mobile and mentally fit. Regular exercise should therefore take place at any age. Even if the horse’s first steps may be difficult at an old age, a walk is good and important for health and does not harm the animal.

Tip 5: Daily figure check

As Julia Greb knows, obesity and the associated consequences are becoming more and more common. Obesity can also result in various metabolic diseases. If you have an easy-to-feed horse, it makes sense to ration the feed into several small portions. At the same time you should make sure that the animal gets enough exercise.

Tip 6: Fresh air and grazing times

Fresh air in the pasture is not only good for a horse’s physical health, but also has a positive effect on the animal’s psyche. Therefore it’s not just your horse’s lungs and the immune system that will thank you in the long run.

©Julia Greb

About Julia Greb:

Julia Greb helps horse owners to improve their horse’s health and has made it her business to provide clients with intensive one-on-one coachings. Thanks to more than ten years of experience as an animal physiotherapist and osteopath, she knows horses’ particularities perfectly and can foresee which steps have to be followed in order for them to become healthier.

…how to improve your horse’s health in everyday life! Many horse riders only think about how to improve their horse´s health when it is already suffering from injuries and diseases.…

Instagram, Lifestyle, Personalities & Clubs, Polo News, Travel & Food

“Privacy is our USP.”

7. December 2021

Timeless luxury on the Indian Ocean: The „Maradiva Villa Resort & Spa“ on Mauritius stands up to even the highest demands. A conversation with „Maradiva“ CEO Sanjiv Ramdanee about hotel highlights, breakfast in the afternoon, polo plans and new markets.

“EVERYONE FEEL WELCOME ON MAURITIUS, ANY TIME.”

Interview with Sanjiv Ramdanee, CEO of „Maradiva Villas Resort & Spa“, Mauritius

Mr. Ramdanee, what makes Mauritius so special for you?
The island is one of the places in the world that exudes a very special magic. A magic that every guest should simply experience for themselves. In addition, the Mauritians are known for their hospitality and warm-heartedness. Here everyone feels warmly welcome at any time. This fact also makes every visit so unique.

You were born in Mauritius and your family is the fith generation to live There. What do you appreciate and like most about your home country to this day?
Definitely the great diversity of landscapes and the Mauritian culture. We have a microclimate here and that‘s why, for example, the region in the south is completely different from the one in the north. Every region offers its beautiful attraction and nature. And I would also mention the harmony among people.

You are the CEO of the „Maradiva Villa Resort & Spa“. Why is your hotel one of the best on the island?
I don‘t like to praise the „Maradiva“ myself – but judging by the very positive feedback from our guests, we seem to be doing quite well. (laughs)

For example?
Let me describe it this way. When it comes to the concept of luxury in the hotel sector, two factors are particularly essential in my eyes: space and temporal independence. And that‘s why we offer our guests a particularly large amount of space. Our Luxury Suite Pool Villas and Beachfront Suite Pool Villas are 163 square metres, Exclusive Suite Pool Villas are 220 square metres and Presidential Suite Pool Villas are 345 square metres. To note also that all our villas (65 in total) have a
private pool.

What can you offer vacationers with particularly high demands?
For them we have the Luxury Suite Pool Villa or the Presidential Suite Pool Villa with a size of 345 square meters and a 56 square meter infinty pool in the portfolio. Whatever the size of the villas, privacy is our USP.

You want your guests to feel almost exactly like they are at home?
Exactly! With us, everything is designed to be extremely spacious and airy – regardless of whether it‘s about the bathroom, bedroom or the walk-in closet in XL format. And the concept runs through the entire hotel complex. We offer only 65 villas on 27 hectares. So if you are a guest going to the beach, spa area or restaurant, it will almost always remain familiar quiet and private. And it will almost never happen that anything is overbooked or guests will have to wait for a certain offer.

And what is it about the luxury factor of time?
We offer a full service in case you don‘t want to leave your villa for a day. You feel like enjoying your breakfast only at two o‘clock in the afternoon? No problem! You can book a massage in your villa or a private dinner. We can fulfill almost any wish, whenever you want. There are no fixed time slots, where sometimes in other hotels certain services are offered. No one has to worry about missing out on anything with us. You alone determine the program! And this is very relaxing!

A very special gem is the spa area, right?
Yes, the spa alone is 1200 square meters and we offer many new and innovative treatments there. The fitness area offers the same amount of space.

What kind of guest mix is visiting the „Maradiva“?
Our guests come mainly from European countries like England, France, Germany or Switzerland. But we also have guests from the Gulf States, Russia, China or South Korea.

At the beginning of 2020, you officially announced that you wanted to hold a polo tournament in Mauritius. Then the pandemic intervened… Are your plans still going ahead?
We quickly realized that it would not be possible to organize a complete tournament. For this, it would be essential to fly about 200 polo ponies to Mauritius, which would then have to be quarantined. But that would be too complicated and costly. That‘s why, for the first attempt last year, we actually considered the compromise of organizing polo show matches over a period of two to three days. This would be logistically not so difficult and expensive to manage and still a good opportunity to present this sport to the Mauritians and their guests. But then the pandemic stroke and we had to postpone.

Would you like to make Mauritius even more attractive for guests in the future?
Absolutely! Together with the MTPA, it‘s an important goal to keep offering visitors activities and attractions that they won’t find in other similar destinations.

“WE FULFILL ALMOST EVERY WISH YOU HAVE, WHENEVER YOU HAVE IT.”

“SAFETY IS THE NEW LUXURY.”

Interview with Arvind Bundhun, Director of the „Mauritius Tourism Promotion Agency“ (MTPA)

Which part of Mauritius or which place do you like the most?
This is like choosing a favorite child… But if I had to choose, I would say hiking up Le Morne Peak, a spectacular mountain overlooking an ocean that has as many shades of blue as you can imagine. It‘s so peaceful, and you have a breathtaking view of the interior and the water. Le Morne is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a great source of pride for Mauritanians. Also, Bel Ombre on the south coast is a beautiful place where I love to spend time.

What else should guests visiting Mauritius for the first time definitely not miss?
The Chamarel rum distillery is a must, as is the nearby panoramic restaurant „Le Chamarel.“ A fascinating insight into the rich history of Mauritius is offered by the museum „L‘Aventure du Sucre“, a former sugar factory, where exhibits about the cultivation of sugar cane are displayed – by the way, the most important crop on Mauritius and a key factor for the economic development of the country. And if they dare to make an early start, they should definitely go swimming with our dolphins.

As head of MTPA, what strategy are you pursuing to maintain or even expand Mauritius‘ status as a high-end tourist destination?
We always work with an eye to the future. The pandemic was a real shock to global tourism and will have a lasting impact on people‘s travel behavior. We therefore believe that safety is the new luxury. Consumers are choosing vacation destinations like Mauritius that have responded robustly to the pandemic; places they can be sure will stay open and won‘t be red-listed in their home countries.

Does the pandemic also present opportunities?
The pause in global tourism caused by Corona has certainly been an occasion for the industry to reflect on some of its unsustainable practices, and the fresh start now provides a good opportunity for a fresh start. Mauritius has long been a regional leader in sustainable tourism. We are determined to step up these efforts immediately and quickly. This is the duty of the tourism industry to our planet. But we also expect this to become a commercial necessity as more and more consumers prioritize sustainability in their lifestyle choices.

How would you describe the collaboration between you and Sanjiv Ramdanee?
We both grew up in the tourism industry and share the same vision of positioning Mauritius as a luxury destination.

“WE ALWAYS WORK WITH AN EYE TO THE FUTURE.”

Interview by POLO+10 / Alexander Nebe

Timeless luxury on the Indian Ocean: The „Maradiva Villa Resort & Spa“ on Mauritius stands up to even the highest demands. A conversation with „Maradiva“ CEO Sanjiv Ramdanee about hotel…

Lifestyle, Polo News, Travel & Food

Six Senses Lisbon to Open in the 17th-century Palácio Lavra and Adjacent Palácio das Pedrosas, Expanding the Brand’s Urban Collection

19. November 2021

By Bettina Faust,

BANGKOK – November 18, 2021 – To translate the Six Senses vision of reconnection into an urban environment, the brand looks for iconic landmarks in some of the world’s most breathtaking downtown addresses and then weaves wellness, sustainable design, bespoke hospitality, and community into the guest experience. Following Istanbul, and with upcoming properties in Rome, New York, London, and Bangkok, Six Senses is now celebrating its entry into the heart of Lisbon. This also adds a second prime destination to its Portuguese portfolio after Six Senses Douro Valley in the heart of the country’s wine region.

Authenticity in the City

As is true with all of the brand’s urban properties, Six Senses Lisbon has been designed with outstanding craftsmanship, comfort, natural materials, and light in mind to ensure both an epicenter and an escape, with spacious seclusion on the inside and seamless access to the city on the doorstep. This time, the heritage buildings are the converted 17th-century Palácio Lavra and the remarkable Palácio de Pedrosas. The latter was built in 1764 for an Italian merchant and then later sold to the Portuguese postal service. Adjacent to the famous Elevator do Lavra funicular railway, Six Senses Lisbon is close to all the city’s cultural highlights including the Coliseu Theater, Politeama Theater and, for fashionistas, the emblematic Liberdade Avenue is just a few meters away.

Once open, Six Senses Lisbon will offer 114 guest rooms within the two buildings. The Palácio de Pedrosas is a journey through time with pieces acquired by the original merchant still in situ, along with classic and modern art, book collections, antique rugs, maps, and handmade textile sculptures. The vibe is contemporary and fresh, juxtaposed with exposed classic architecture and traditional Portuguese furniture. The generous room proportions, large windows and doors, and high ceilings give the hotel a breezy and contemporary flow. The suites feature separate fitted kitchens and outdoor terraces with a dining area and comfy sofas, perfect for a relaxing escape at the end of a busy day spent shopping or visiting the city’s attractions.

The ground floor of the Palácio Lavra has the aesthetic of an artist’s atelier, complete with carved wooden counters and handmade tapestries. Rooms are decorated in warm and earthy tones to envelop guests in comfort, with traditional Portuguese touches such as hand-painted ceramics.

In the main communal areas, the soaring ceilings, playful candelabras, exotic frescos, striking sculptural features, and lush artisanal palette add to the friendly elegance of the space. The design is sharp and the plants are soft, to keep guests connected to nature even when dressed in Donatella.

Six Senses Lisbon is also blessed with unique outdoor spaces including a rooftop terrace with views over the city and a private central garden featuring vine-covered glass atriums, cozy corners, and communal seating with Portuguese fabrics and natural fibers. Separated from the chaos of the city, guests could be forgiven for closing their eyes and believing they can hear waves lapping on the shore.

“What emerges from our latest urban project is not just a collection of individual hotel rooms but a vibrant community and mutual enjoyment of the rooftop bar, library, boutique, Earth Lab, and lounge areas,” says Six Senses Chief Executive Officer Neil Jacobs. “The offering includes differentiated service standards too, with a dedicated on-site team and personal Guest Experience Makers, private catering, in-room spa treatments and catered event planning.”

Culinary Culture

The joy of good food permeates all aspects of Portuguese life, emphasizing simple ingredients that are lovingly and impeccably prepared. The main street restaurant will be guided by the Eat With Six Senses philosophy, where flavors are fresh, and ingredients are seasonal and wholesome. There will also be a specialty organic restaurant in the pretty courtyard, a lively lounge bar, a relaxed greenhouse bar, and an all-day coffee bar.

Spa Journeys

The 1,000 square-meter Six Senses Spa will blend signature therapies and wellness programs for guests and locals alike. Along with eight treatment rooms, there will be indoor and outdoor wet areas, a fitness center, a dance studio, and a yoga pavilion set up for aerial yoga. The tinctures and detox mocktails brewed at the Juice Bar work their magic on the inside while the natural botanicals blended at the Alchemy Bar take 10 years off the outside.

Emotion in Motion

To bring its urban vision to life, Six Senses collaborates with innovative experts in architecture, sustainable engineering, design, hospitality, and development, in this case, Key International and ARD Investment and Development, who together bring over 30 years of experience in global investments and developments. Their expertise focuses on real estate projects that improve customers’ lifestyles through forward-thinking considerations for everyday life, work, convenience, entertainment, and leisure.

“It is a great responsibility for us to restore these magnificent and unique properties in Lisbon,” says Jaime Ardid, Partner at ARD Investment and Development. “We are fortunate and grateful for this opportunity to bring the essence of the two palácios back to life, joining forces with the professional Six Senses team. We’re focusing all our energies on giving Lisbon a cultural landmark the local community can feel proud of and that shines bright for our international guests.”

Six Senses Lisbon is set to open in 2025.

About Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas

Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas manages 19 hotels and resorts and 27 spas in 19 countries under the brand names Six Senses, Evason and Six Senses Spas, and has signed a further 34 properties into the development pipeline. Six Senses is part of the IHG Hotels & Resorts family.

Six Senses Hotels and Resorts: a leadership commitment to community, sustainability, emotional hospitality, wellness and design, infused with a touch of quirkiness. Whether an exquisite island resort, mountain retreat or urban hotel, the vision remains the same: to reawaken people’s senses so they feel the purpose behind their travels and ultimately reconnect with themselves, others and the world around them.

Six Senses Spas: a wide range of holistic wellness, rejuvenation and beauty treatments administered under the guidance of expert therapists in all resorts as well as at 8 additional standalone spas. The high-tech and high-touch approach guides guests on their personal path to well-being, taking them as deep as they want to go.

Six Senses Residences: indulgent living as nature intended, providing all the unique amenities of a resort life community, while retaining the intimacy and personal touches of a beautifully-appointed private villa or apartment. Each is an appreciating long-term investment to be cherished for generations to come with immediate benefits including fine dining, pioneering wellness programming and exclusive status at other resorts worldwide.

Evason: a strong value focus with a vast array of personal guest experiences that the whole family will love, while sharing the Six Senses philosophy of uncompromised social and environmental responsibility.

www.faustconcept.com

By Bettina Faust, BANGKOK – November 18, 2021 – To translate the Six Senses vision of reconnection into an urban environment, the brand looks for iconic landmarks in some of…

Lifestyle, Polo News, Travel & Food

A Breathtaking Expedition, An Adventure Rich in Emotions

15. November 2021

Leading one hundred and thirty-three riders and horses from the gates of the spectacular Wadi Rum desert to the mythical Nabataean lost city of Petra is the crazy and daring bet that Bady Kebir, Benoît Perrier, and their Gallops of Jordan team have just accomplished. Two hundred kilometers on horseback in the desert, eighteen nations represented among the participating riders, more than one hundred and sixty horses, a team of twenty people from France (management, doctors, veterinarians, endurance technicians, media) and with eighty Jordanians recruited locally for supervising and supporting the race. An extraordinary amount of a preparation went into making the Gallops of Jordan an incredible success!

After the Gallops of Oman, Morocco, and India, Bady Kebir and Benoît Perrier have succeeded in their fourth challenge to amaze riders from various horizons with breathtaking desert landscapes. A project which has been in the works since 2019 but postponed from 2020 to 2021 because of Covid. The objective of the Gallops is to discover spectacular sites through an endurance and orienteering race where the well-being of the horses is the absolute priority. Every Gallops edition carefully selects horses locally and their well-being is monitored constantly and extensively throughout the race.

With Absolute Respect of the Horses

Her Royal Highness Princess Alia bint Al Hussein of Jordan, President of the Royal Jordanian Equestrian Federation, who was immediately won over by the Gallops project, opened the doors to her equestrian clubs. “We had visited practically every equestrian site in Jordan – a good fifteen at least – where there were horses potentially capable of carrying out this endurance trek. After extensive examinations and checks, we selected one hundred and sixty out over two hundred horses which were presented to us. Once the horses were selected, we signed contracts with the owners requiring them to train their horses for endurance racing for two months before the event,” explained Bady Kebir. All the horses arrived safely and in good health at the finish line thanks to the extensive and rigorous surveillance of the four veterinarians who monitored the health and well-being of the horses. In every Gallops event, inseparable pairs have been formed between rider and horse to the point of not being able to be separated from each other. Three competitors are in the process of acquiring and importing their Jordanian horses to be reunited together in their new forever home.

Strong Emotions

Whilst the finish line in front of the temple of Petra made famous by Indiana Jones was the crowning moment of the Gallops of Jordan, the five days of the adventure were marked by unforgettable moments. The highlights include the Gallops’ famous and legendary White Party in the desert in the spectacular setting of red and ochre rock formations sculpted by time where the competitors danced under the stars, and the majestic Gala Closing Ceremony in the sumptuous setting of Little Petra with members of the Jordanian Royal Family and foreign Ambassadors of the participating Nations present.

On a human level, everyone was extremely moved and inspired by the lesson of courage and optimism shown by Belgian rider Émeline Parmentier, a victim of a car accident who had both legs amputated at 23 years old. Her dream was to participate in the Gallops and reach the finish line in Petra. Goal achieved: „I set myself a pretty huge challenge, I wanted to prove to myself that I could do it. I have also done it for other people who may experience the same difficulties as me, to prove to them that anything is possible and help them realize their dreams too.“ Courageous and inspiring!

Another emotional moment: the arrival at Petra of Her Royal Highness, the young Jordanian Princess Jalila bint Ali, niece of His Royal Highness King Abdullah II of Jordan, discovered that her father, His Royal Highness Prince Ali bin Hussein, returning from a diplomatic trip in Europe, surprised her at the finish line. Her Royal Highness Princess Jalila, 16, is an endurance enthusiast and trains hard with the goal of competing for her country in international competitions. She arrived without difficulty, surrounded by her trainer, Jehad Shhaltough, at the end of the 200-kilometer race! Other participants struggled a bit more to arrive at the finish line, but all the teams successfully crossed the finish line. The participants are already asking the Gallops organization where the next edition of the “Gallops” will be taking place! Bady Kebir, who is currently recovering from all the hard work and energy deployed from this magnificent edition, has told us that the next edition might be held in Egypt, Saudi Arabia, or Patagonia. Even before the participants had arrived back home, there is already a list of participants signed up for the next Gallops adventure no matter where the next location will be. The Gallops of Jordan was fully booked several months in advance and had a long waiting list. Participants are advised to book very early in order to secure a place on this extraordinary adventure of a lifetime.

Competition Results:
1st BLUE GHALLAH (France) – 2nd QUAZANE (France) – 3rd Royal Calvary of Oman (Oman)

Participating Nations:
Afghanistan, Germany, Argentina, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Spain, United States, France, Ireland, Italy, Jordan, Lebanon, Morocco, Oman, Sweden, Switzerland, Netherlands.

Base Camp: Bait Ali
The start of the race was at the Bait Ali Lodge Camp where the teams stayed for the two days preceding the race. At the gateway to the sublime desert of Wadi Rum, this establishment is an oasis in a desert with rooms and tents furnished with comfortable beds of a superior quality far beyond your standard desert camp. Surrounded by a Bedouin-style enclosure, it is equipped with a superb swimming pool and an excellent restaurant with a bar serving magnificent Jordanian wine. Bait Ali overflows with desert lifestyle and architecture, which is an excellent starting point to discover the Wadi Rum desert on foot, horseback or by car (the staff of Bait Ali, in particular Mohammed, will organize these desert treks for you). In true Lawrence of Arabia style, you should hop on board the famous Hejaz Railway train for an exhilarating and historical reconstruction of the Arab Revolt led by Lawrence of Arabia against the Ottoman Empire. (www.baitali.com)

Photo: R&B Presse / P. Renauldon

Leading one hundred and thirty-three riders and horses from the gates of the spectacular Wadi Rum desert to the mythical Nabataean lost city of Petra is the crazy and daring…

In own affaires, Lifestyle, Polo News

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