Autumn 2023 We’re also pleased to be sharing our Tastes of the World feature, which includes some outstanding food and beverage businesses, from a baker of fresh, delicious bread, to a charming Americana beach bar, to a divine Vietnamese restaurant. Each serves up glorious tastes and smells that will certainly bring you joy and comfort. LUX life M A G A Z I N E Featuring: Tastes of the World
Rebecca Scotland, Editor Phone:+44 (0) 203 970 0037 Website: www.lux-review.com Editors Letter Hello and welcome to the Autumn 2023 issue of LUXlife! September has come back around, meaning it must be time to return to school and for summer to draw to a close. I don’t know about you, but I enjoy the autumn season; seeing the leaves change from green to orange, wrapping up cosy in jumpers and scarves, enjoying the taste of pumpkin spice in my lattes and desserts, and knowing Halloween is right around the corner. In this issue, the LUXlife team are excited to be celebrating an array of luxury businesses who are here to make your autumn one to remember. Whether you’re looking to escape to the Salzburg Mountains, get lost in the art hotel of Nadir Afonso, delve into a wine experience in Santorini, or escape the hustle and bustle for the French countryside, there are a number of delightful and memorable experiences for you to relish in. We’re also pleased to be sharing our Tastes of the World feature, which includes some outstanding food and beverage businesses, from a baker of fresh, delicious bread, to a charming Americana beach bar, to a divine Vietnamese restaurant. Each serves up glorious tastes and smells that will certainly bring you joy and comfort. I hope that you enjoy this issue of LUXlife magazine and that you have a wonderful autumn. In the meantime, I look forward to welcoming you back again soon for our November issue.
4. News - Adanola Partners with Stephanie Shepherd to Launch an Elevated Capsule Collection - L'Oréal Dermatological Beauty Division Teams Up with Ubitus for Metaverse Showroom Autumn Issue 6. The Garden Venue: Best Wedding & Event Hotel 2023 - Johannesburg 8. Bringing Sustainability to Luxury Interiors 9. A Perfect Retreat in the Salzburg Mountains 10. Boticas Hotel ART & SPA: Best Art Hotel 2023 - Portugal 11. Kusudalweni Safari Lodge & Spa: Best Luxury Safari Lodge 2023 - Greater Kruger 12. Stunning Scandinavian Interior Design Solutions 13. Abbaye De Villeneuve: Most Outstanding Countryside Heritage Hotel 2023 - France 14. OMMIJ: Best Ayahuasca Retreat 2023 – Spain 16. Creating Beautiful and Timeless Interiors 17. Brighton College Al Ain: Best Early Years School 2023 – UAE & Best British Prep School 2023 – UAE 18. ineo Pharma GmbH: Most Innovative Dietary Supplements Manufacturer 2023 - DACH Contents 19. Brighton College Abu Dhabi: British School of the Year – UAE 20. Two worlds under one thatch: A Spanish interior designer living in a 400-year-old English cottage 21. Stunning Innovation Through Interior Design and Architecture 22. Dunwood Hall Estate: Most Elegant Wedding Venue 2023 - Staffordshire Tastes of the World 25. The Smart Secrets of Sourdough 26. Fancy a Taste of True Americana? 27. Award-Winning Vietnamese Cuisine Delivers Sensational Tastes 28. Santo Wines: Authentic Taste of Santorini 30. Authentic Japanese Sushi at Sushi Take 31. Paprika Restaurant: Bringing Hungary to Your Plate 32. Seafood Excellence: Veldon's Seafarer 33. Elevating Saigon's Culinary Scene with French- style Seafood Excellence 34. Embracing Tradition and Reaping Success 36. Exploring Maggie's: A Mediterranean Culinary Paradise
Adanola, the high quality activewear and wardrobe essentials brand, and Stephanie Suganami, tastemaker and executive also known as Steph Shep, have teamed up to create a capsule collection complete with elevated everyday apparel. Adanola x Steph Shep was designed for waking up, working out, running errands, hanging out, and Adanola Partners with Stephanie Shepherd to Launch an Elevated Capsule Collection The collection is a combination of movement and everyday life – for the health of it! everything in between, to fill the gaps that Steph felt she had in her active, everyday wardrobe. "After the brand first developed a relationship with Steph in 2017 - we're now so excited to be partnering with her on a full collection that fits the needs of an active lifestyle," states Hyrum Cook, CEO and Founder of Adanola. "Steph had great ideas and this capsule brings an even more elevated flare to our high quality product range." "I'm really excited to release this collaboration with Adanola," states Stephanie Suganami, "I feel grateful to have created a line with a brand that understands my everyday needs while still prioritizing fashion and function. This capsule is truly an accumulation of classic staples reimagined and my dream pieces come to life!" The Adanola x Steph Shep collection features ultimate sets of bras, tops, and leggings in deep blue, black, and brown colorways, outerwear like down coats and kimono jackets, as well as matching sweats with a subtle print of the Adanola logo shown among LA's palm tree skyline. An assortment of classic tops, bottoms, and trendy accessories are also featured in the collection. Pricing ranges from £10.99-£89.99 ($14-$115). Adanola is designed to be as versatile as your lifestyle. Adanola's mission is to create high quality activewear and wardrobe essentials accessible to everybody. Every piece is designed to make you feel like your very best self, whatever you're doing. The Adanola x Steph Shep collection offers elevated everyday pieces fit for various lifestyles and occasions – it's everybody's everyday uniform.
Autumn 2023 | 5 Ubitus K.K. (hereinafter Ubitus) teams up with L'Oréal Dermatological Beauty Division to launch Perfect Skin Expo, a metaverse showroom, from August 30th to September 30th of 2023 in Taiwan. Engaging Virtual Shopping Being the leader in the beauty industry, L'Oréal Dermatological Beauty Division continues to offer the best products and shopping experience through innovations. Perfect Skin Expo is one such endeavor, leveraging metaverse with a distinct virtual showroom to exhibit and offer products from L'Oréal Dermatological Beauty Division. Aiming to fulfill a wide range of customer needs, L'Oréal Dermatological Beauty Division brings together La Roche-Posay, CeraVe, VICHY, and SkinCeuticals, L'Oréal Dermatological Beauty Division Teams Up with Ubitus for Metaverse Showroom each catering to specific beauty purposes. La Roche-Posay is known for soothing sensitive skin, CeraVe specializes in restoring and maintaining skin barrier, VICHY commits to the quest for skin health in anti-aging, and SkinCeuticals specializes in antioxidants. Each showroom has a unique and vivid design theme that matches the respective brand's image. Customers can seamlessly navigate to each showroom, explore products of interest, and make purchases through links to Taiwan's main e-Commerce platforms, momo and Shopee. Metaverse Complements Physical Retail The convenience of shopping anywhere and anytime, the vast product information at fingertips, the various picture, video, and 3-D presentation formats, all make the metaverse showroom an attractive alternative to in-store shopping. To make this metaverse shopping as vivid and real as possible, Ubitus helps L'Oréal Dermatological Beauty Division to offer such shopping experiences through its cloud gaming technology, including ray-tracing with minimal latency. This interactive technology enhances customers' satisfaction while shopping online. Wesley Kuo, CEO of Ubitus, stated: "This collaboration with L'Oreal Dermatological Beauty Division shows that high-tech and beauty can join and create something exciting. We look forward to bringing more interesting technology to further enhance L'Oréal Dermatological Beauty Division's brand's customer shopping experience."
6 | LUXlife Magazine pread over 8 acres of exquisite gardens, with 13 venues ready to host weddings, events, and guests from all over, The Garden Venue is a multi-award-winning events venue that’s renowned for the natural elegance that’s on display. Spanning from its cantilevering decks and stunning pavilions, to its serene koi pond, this event space boasts a level of personality that makes it an undeniable stand-out within the region. It’s for this reason that The Garden Venue is now widely recognised as one of the most beautiful venues in Gauteng. Whether individuals are looking to plan a corporate event, party, or are simply seeking out a stay in a modernised, luxurious hotel, The Garden Venue has everything anyone could need to indulge in the perfect environment. However, The Garden Venue truly shines when it’s hosting its renowned weddings. Having successfully accommodated plenty of stunning wedding services over the years since its inception, The Garden Venue has gained an immense amount of praise for the potential that it presents. Its expansive gardens allow for an event unlike any other, and with four outdoor chapels to choose from, The Garden Venue leaves couples spoilt for choice. No matter what part of the grounds in which couples choose to hold their wedding ceremony, The Garden Venue promises spectacular views, all as a result of its exquisitely landscaped surroundings. Each venue is laden with grandeur, allowing for a stunning spectacle that’s nothing short of timeless. As such, it presents a perfect union between nature and man – something that truly serves to enhance the overall atmosphere of the space. There isn’t a single inch of The Garden Venue that isn’t a delight to behold. This, partnered with its picturesque nature, establishes it as one of Johannesburg’s crowning jewels. As previously mentioned, The Garden Venue has multiple options for couples looking for their perfect wedding venue. With four outdoor chapels, and an additional wedding venue, The Garden Venue hosts five spaces to choose from, each with varying capacity limits. Capable of hosting the most guests, with numbers reaching 450, The Garden Arena Hall is a true vision to behold. With cascading water features, tropical plants, and an extensive stretch of greenery, The Garden Arena Hall’s lawn, chapel and bar come together to create the perfect setting for any wedding. Its magnificence is ideal for grand weddings, where spectacle truly is everything. However, if couples are looking for a more whimsical atmosphere, The Garden Venue’s Forest Banquet Hall, punctuated by the Forest Piazza and Lily Pond Forest Chapel, is brilliantly suited to the task. Guests will watch from the banks of lily pond as the couple walk the length of the suspended bridge leading to the chapel. It imbues the space with a magical aura that will radiate throughout the Best Wedding & Event Hotel 2023 - Johannesburg Johannesburg is renowned for its beauty. Colloquially dubbed ‘The City of Gold’, it’s widely recognised as a stunning destination fit for any venture – particularly weddings. Enter The Garden Venue, one of South Africa’s most enticing wedding venues. Complete with a selection of wedding venues, an on-site hotel, and luscious views as far as the eye can see, The Garden Venue has become a hotspot for couples looking to tie the knot. Below, we explore its immaculate wedding venues, and how their unique qualities make The Garden Venue truly special. S
Autumn 2023 | 7 duration of the event – from start to finish. And with surrounding palms and abundant foliage, it brings a more enclosed feel to any wedding proceeding. One of The Garden Venue’s most unique chapels, however, is its hidden Elephant Hall venue. Composed of The Elephant Hall, The Elephant Boma, and The Koi Pond Pavilion, this venue ensures that couples can indulge in a wedding that truly embodies the meaning of intimacy. Nestled within the gorgeous fauna, this chapel rests on one of the venue’s glittering ponds. Despite its more sheltered nature, however, couples will still remain the centre of attention, with guests seated either side of the bridge extending towards the chapel. As such, they’ll have the best angle as the couple take their first steps down the aisle. Finally, sharing the Lawn Terrace Chapel is The Olive Tree Hide and The Peacock Room. Peacocks are a staple of The Garden Venue’s boutique hotel gardens, and guests will be able to appreciate these stunning creatures in all of their majesty as the Lawn Terrace Chapel hosts a smaller wedding ceremony. Its modern contemporary architecture serves as a stark contrast to the thatched style that is typically seen throughout The Garden Venue, presenting an appreciation for both the natural and everyday world. This venue exhibits perfect harmony, making it a must for the more condensed wedding services. The Garden Venue truly has thought of everything when it comes to hosting weddings. From its immaculate venues, to its comprehensive catering services, it has every means to craft a day that no guest will forget. It thrives in shaping days that will last forever in the minds of those that experience them, whether this is a result of the splendour of the location, or thanks to the unique nature of each individual venue. Creativity is in abundance at The Garden Venue, which quite clearly manifests through its astounding spaces. There’s a breath of fresh air at every angle, allowing The Garden Venue to lean into the natural world it finds itself surrounded by. We’re beyond proud to present The Garden Venue with the title of Best Wedding & Event Hotel 2023 – Johannesburg. There isn’t a single facility that isn’t bursting with character, providing guests with a unique insight into how beautiful South Africa truly is. It’s proud of its heritage -something that really shines through the architecture, services, and dedication that it has towards its craft. The Garden Venue has earned its reputation through its incredible eye for beauty, and we’re sure that it’ll continue to serve as the go-to location for any wedding, event, or hotel excursion. Contact Details Contact: Sinawo Dubayi Company: The Garden Venue Web Address: https://thegardenvenue.co.za/
8 | LUXlife Magazine Bringing Sustainability to Luxury Interiors One of the first vegan, luxury interior design studios in the UK to specialise specifically in creating sustainable homes, Tusk & Willow Interiors is taking a healthier approach to residential design, focused on optimising physical and mental health benefits. We find out more from Director, Shani Castle following Tusk & Willow Interiors gaining recognition as Most Sustainable Interior Design Studio 2023 – UK. Tusk & Willow Interiors officially broke onto the luxury interior design scene in early 2023 with a clear vision: that all homes could be designed to a luxury standard without the need for animalderived materials or furniture and finishes that had been manufactured using toxic chemicals. Shani tells us more about the firm and why she believes that everyone deserves to come home to a sustainable sanctuary. The concern surrounding climate change and the need for sustainability in businesses has risen to the forefront in recent years, both in and outside of the interior design sector. However, so few designers focus exclusively on vegan, sustainable design, so Tusk & Willow Interiors was established to offer a luxury option that did just that. The goal is for its clients to achieve optimal health by using innovative methods and the latest cutting-edge eco-technology to purify the living environment and reduce waste – all while implementing its signature, sustainable luxury design concepts. “We use luxury vegan materials that optimise overall health and create unique, timeless spaces that will last for generations,” Shani elaborates. “Every client and project is unique and it is important that our approach to interior design reflects the individuality of both those things.” Shani continues to tell us that collaborating on a Tusk & Willow Interiors design project should feel like an experience in itself, as the client is so much at the heart of the design process. In her own words, the business is more than a luxury interior designer with environmental values – it positions itself loosely as a (healthy) lifestyle designer, and achieves optimal quality of life through its design methods and sourcing. “I want our clients to feel like they can have anything they want. They deserve that. We’ll go above and beyond to create a luxurious home for them that acts as their own personal brand of sanctuary. It’s a privilege to be able to do that for someone.” Recently, the innovative company was delighted to be recognised in the Leading Designers Awards and rewarded with the title of Most Sustainable Interior Design Studio 2023 – UK. Now, Shani shares what the focus will be over the next few years. “This is still a fresh business with a modern take and a niche that I truly love and believe in,” she enthuses. “The plan is to continue to create luxury homes that give back more than they take.” “We want to become industry leaders in our niche and set the standard for what we do.” With its powerful brand message about the impact of unsustainable design and environmentally tailored approach, any home designed by Tusk & Willow Interiors is set to be truly unique. Contact: Shani Castle Company: Tusk & Willow Interiors Web Address: www.tuskandwillowinteriors.co.uk Jun23173 “Many people do not realise the extent to which their mental and physical health is being affected by their surroundings. Our clients deserve to feel the benefits of purified air and be able to come home to a space they feel their best selves in. Anyone looking to feel on top of their game would thrive in a space designed by Tusk & Willow.”
Autumn 2023 | 9 The Hotel Stadt Wien is a family run hotel, currently being overseen by 4th generation incumbents. It is located in the town of Zell am See in Austria, on Lake Zell, south of the city of Salzburg. Having recently been announced as the Best High-End Family-Run Hotel - Western Austria, we thought it high time to take a closer look at this alpine style home from home. A Perfect Retreat in the Salzburg Mountains Winter in the Salzburg region provides many opportunities for unforgettable experiences such as skiing, ice skating, snowboarding, tobogganing, or winter hiking trips. The snow transforms the landscape into a vision of white splendour, glittering and sparkling whenever the sun shines across it. Sports enthusiasts can look forward to lots of fun, with numerous opportunities to sample some of the very best ski slopes in Salzburg, such as Kitzsteinhorn, the Maiskogel, and the Schmittenhöhe itself. After an energy expending day on the slopes, what better way is there to re-invigorate than in Hotel Stadt Wien.’s own spa. This oasis of calm and relaxation offers a range of services for visitors, including massage, reflexology, saunas, steam baths, and a heated outdoor pool. There’s even a family sauna room featuring a panoramic views of the Schmittenhöhe “Relax in the sauna area or treat yourself to a soothing massage. After a relaxing session in the sauna, the crystal-clear Salzburg mountain air invigorates all your senses. In the heated outdoor pool, all water rats will get their money's worth, and you can relax your body in our beautiful relaxation rooms.” The rooms and suites offered at Hotel Stadt Wien. are designed to enhance holidays, with relaxation kept firmly in mind. All the spacious family suites, and cozy double rooms, promise modern living details combined with the alpine charm of Salzburg’s authentic culture. The hotel has told us it has a full digitalisation renovation on the cards, with Smart TVs on order, and a new booking system due featuring AI technology that will innovate and improve efficiency. The dedicated team at the hotel strive to provide a welcoming atmosphere where visitors feel at home throughout their stay. It’s staff are extremely loyal, and delight in seeing many visitors return year after year. Hosts Christine and Klaus Kerbl run the hotel with love, dedication, and commitment. They strongly believe in guest-orientated and attentive service, which is why close proximity to visitors is very important to them. They invite their valued guests to “take a bit of the genuine Austrian hospitality back home with you, where you will look back in happiness at the most wonderful time of your year.” The effect is striking, as can easily be gleaned from the terrific customer reviews Hotel Stadt Wien. is inundated with. For example, recent visitor Joseph Colannino took the time to write, “This is by far the best hotel we've ever stayed in. The food was incredible every day, and always different each night. The pool and spa area was a perfect way to unwind after every days adventure around Zell Am See.” Fellow traveller Günter Ott simply says, “The wonderful days in the Hotel Stadt Wien. will remain in our memories for a long time. A big compliment to Christine and Klaus as well as the entire team. I recommend the location without reservation. Everything was perfect all around.” This fantastic hotel offers a range of packages customers can take advantage of. So, what are you waiting for? Get that dream holiday in the Alps booked toot suite! Company: Hotel Stadt Wien. Web Address: www.hotel-stadt-wien.com Contact Name: Christine & Klaus Kerbl he magnificent 4-star Hotel Stadt Wien is an alpine paradise surrounded by breathtaking mountains. It welcomes visitors any time of the year, from Winter through to Summer, to enjoy adventures in the Salzburgerland region. The lakeside location of Zell am See offers a peaceful haven, in the midst of the Kitzbühel Alps, and has long been a favoured destination of European aristocracy. The family-run hotel promotes a wonderful, caring atmosphere that caters superbly for all age groups. There’s a children and youth group offering a full range of activities. For example, youngsters can visit Schmidolin’s trail and experience an unforgettable “Baptism of Fire on the Schmittenhöhe”, helping the little dragon Schmidolin learn how to spit fire. There’s also an opportunity to take part in a fabulous downhill course riding e-bikes from the mountain station. Afterwards, there’s a fantastic return trip by cable car, allowing for stunning views of the glorious mountain vistas. T Aug23062
10 | LUXlife Magazine ituated in Trás-os-Montes, Boticas Hotel Art & Spa is a four-star, luxury hotel that holds one purpose – to pay homage to Nadir Afonso’s contemporary art, all whilst providing guests with an elegant escape from day-to-day life. Whether visitors from across the world are looking to learn more about the brilliance of Afonso’s work, or local guests are seeking a break away from the mundane, Boticas Hotel Art & Spa is on-hand to provide unrivalled relaxation opportunities. From its immaculate rooms to its carefully crafted spa facilities, it has every amenity available to whisk individuals away to a world of art and rejuvenation. Following its inception in 2014, Boticas Hotel Art & Spa has rapidly accumulated a fantastic reputation based on its top-quality services and Best Art Hotel 2023 - Portugal Nadir Afonso was a Portuguese painter who, when compiling stunning geometric and abstract works, took Portugal by storm. Now, his legacy lies with the art that he accumulated throughout the years. Devoted to reminding individuals, local or otherwise, of the painter’s eye for the world’s undiscovered beauty, Boticas Hotel Art & Spa came to be. Join us as we explore how this contemporary hotel honours the late painter, all whilst offering a luxurious experience to each and every guest. experiences. This, married with its close proximity to the Nadir Afonso Arts Centre, sets it apart as a wholly unique entity, the likes of which having never been replicated since. There’s an unwavering sense of love for the works of the late painter, architect, and philosopher, and it’s one that flourishes throughout the entirety of the hotel. Boticas Hotel Art & Spa truly has something for everyone, which has no doubt contributed towards its immense popularity. Despite its devotion to luxury, however, Boticas Hotel Art & Spa’s elegance manages to strike the perfect balance between refined beauty and a homely atmosphere. As such, guests often remark on how comfortable they feel when enjoying their time at the hotel, whether this is a result of the beautiful artwork, the attentive staff, the local people, or the surrounding culture. Boticas Hotel Art & Spa finds itself in a unique position, allowing it to combine modernity with the natural landscapes around it to forge an truly enchanting environment. In addition to the homely feel that guests can experience from the comfort of their hotel rooms, Boticas Hotel Art & Spa also enhances the getaway experience through the myriad of facilities that are available for individuals to enjoy. One such standout section of the hotel is its rooftop swimming pool and bar. This, partnered with its Spa & Health Club, makes for a truly unforgettable relaxation retreat for a whole manner of individuals. Boticas Hotel Art & Spa stands as a testament to the notion that it’s entirely possible to create wistful environments crafted to recharge even the weariest of guests, all whilst capturing the rich heritage of one of Portugal’s most famous artists. It truly is unique in this sense, and it’s this astounding balance that serves to encourage a sense of wonder. Combine this with its dedication to fantastic service, and a commitment to its local community, and you’ve got a hotel that understands how to remain humble whilst offering a wholly luxurious getaway opportunity. We’re excited to present Boticas Hotel Art & Spa with the title of Best Art Hotel 2023 – Portugal. It accomplishes a feat that no other hotel within the area has – delivering an elegant escape from everyday life, all whilst honouring the work of an incredibly beloved artist. And, as it approaches its tenth year of excellence, Boticas Hotel Art & Spa will no doubt continue to dedicate its all to ensuring that guests can enjoy the getaway of a lifetime. Contact: Manuela Pais Company: Boticas Hotel ART & SPA Web Address: https://www.boticashotel.com/en/ S Jul23495
Best Luxury Safari Lodge 2023 - Greater Kruger It’s one thing to treat yourself to a relaxing getaway. But what if you were looking for a little more adventure, whilst still having the option to unwind each and every day? This is exactly what Kusudalweni Safari Lodge & Spa offers to its guests. With a collection of luxury spa treatments, combined with the chance for individuals to partake in one-of-a-kind safari experiences, this five-star lodge has managed to earn its place as Greater Kruger’s most rejuvenating safari lodge. Nestled within the heart of the African Lowveld, Kusudalweni Safari Lodge & Spa is the perfect place for any manner of guests to enjoy an escape to the beautiful landscapes of Greater Kruger. With lush woodland, expansive savannahs, and a variety of wildlife and bird species surrounding the lodge, Kusudalweni Safari Lodge & Spa offers a connection with nature that truly puts it on the map. It holds an immense love for the world around it, and guests are invited to share this passion in a once-in-alifetime safari excursion. What makes Kusudalweni Safari Lodge & Spa truly unique is, not only its setting, but its exclusivity. In order to deliver the highest level of quality service to its guests, Kusudalweni Safari Lodge & Spa consists of four suites, one of which being a two-bedroom family suite, with a maximum occupancy of ten guests at one time. As such, Kusudalweni Safari Lodge & Spa manages to adopt a far more personalised approach – from packages to guest service, it’s able to tailor a perfect experience for each individual visiting the safari. Too add to its exclusive nature, Kusudalweni Safari Lodge & Spa has ensured that its rooms are completely private and secluded, each equipped with enclosed jacuzzi plunge pools just waiting for guests to revel in. All of this culminates in a lodge that’s able to maximise relaxation to an incredibly effective degree. As such, guests can expect a comfort unlike any other, whether it’s a result of the quiet, quaint nature of its lodges, or its range of in-room spa treatments. Carried out by professional spa therapists, these treatments present guests with the epitome of everything that Kusudalweni Safari Lodge & Spa stands for – a private, guest-centered retreat where individuals can indulge in unapologetic relaxation. In addition to its stellar collection of facilities, Kusudalweni Safari Lodge & Spa also offers a wide variety of safari activities for guests to partake in. Be it its excursions to discover the abundance of local wildlife, or its charitysupported rhino horn trimming operations, Kusudalweni Safari Lodge & Spa has every means to combine a relaxing getaway with exciting adventure to help guests create lifelong memories. By supporting Kusudalweni Safari Lodge & Spa, not only are individuals able to help themselves to a serving of rest and rejuvenation, but they’ll also be contributing towards the preservation of Greater Kruger’s ecology. Kusudalweni Safari Lodge & Spa has truly considered every variable when it comes to crafting the perfect experience. From engaging with Rhino Revolution, a local charity who’s determined to protect rhinos from poaching, to providing individuals with samples of Africa’s best food and beverages, there are a myriad of chances for guests to engage with the world around them. It encourages an immense connection with its surroundings, and is eager to present the beauty of Greater Kruger to individuals from all walks of life. The result is an award-winning lodge that has long since earned its spot among the greats. No lodge within Greater Kruger is more deserving of the title of Best Luxury Safari Lodge 2023 - Greater Kruger than Kusudalweni Safari Lodge & Spa. It has gained a perfect understanding of, not only the local wildlife that it is so undeniably committed to protecting, but how to unite it with carefully crafted facilities in order to deliver an experience unlike any other. Guests from across the globe can witness everything that the area has to offer, and it's all thanks to Kusudalweni Safari Lodge & Spa. Jul23395 Contact: Samantha Bennett Company: Kusudalweni Safari Lodge & Spa Web Address: https://kusudalweni.co.za/
12 | LUXlife Magazine Stunning Scandinavian Interior Design Solutions Gudbjørg Simonsen AS is an interior design studio that follows a proud Scandinavian tradition of elegance and passion throughout its holistic ethos. It has recently been recognised as the Most Innovative Interior Design Studio 2023 – Norway, following which we felt it was a perfect time to find out a little more about its work process. Gudbjørg Simonsen is an independent interior architect in Norway, with a wealth of experience in creating stunning and functional homes. She concentrates her focus on holistic designs and effective space management, to translate her clients' desires into reality. Gudbjørg brings a unique blend of Scandinavian influence, style, and emotion to each project, to fashion distinct and exceptional homes for her clientele. Since the very inception of her company, Gudbjørg Simonsen AS, her core values of passion and competence have remained steadfast. This is what drives her commitment to unique home design, whereby the transformation of ordinary spaces into something extraordinary offers each a unique aura that celebrates the Scandinavian interior and design mindset. Gudbjørg recognises that her passion for, and understanding of, the impact our surroundings have on our individual wellbeing is something that stands her apart in the design world. Her environments are projects that go beyond aesthetics, to create spaces that prioritise the evocation of positive energy. By deeply comprehending the significance of our surroundings, she is able to foster designs that profoundly resonate with clients. This ability, to create environments that truly connect with people on an emotional level, and contribute to their happiness and satisfaction, is truly Gudbjørg’s unique selling point. A recent project Gudbjørg has worked on involved an apartment sited on the top floor of a historic building in Stavanger. In this case, the property sat alongside serene open parkland, immediately triggering Gudbjørg’s design sensibilities to kick into gear. With this in mind, she endeavoured to create an interior in perfect harmony with the surrounding natural environment, whilst providing a warm, homely sanctuary for her client. She set about this by drawing inspiration from the ever-changing weather and enchanting views outside the apartment, which she sought to encapsulate within the design. The introduction of a floorto-ceiling window acted as a bridge between the interior and exterior, and allowed the client to immerse themselves in the beauty of their surroundings. “Whether it's witnessing the dramatic storms of the North Sea or basking in the warm hues of the autumn sun, these natural phenomena influenced my design decisions and added a touch of dynamism to the space.” The apartment also reflected the client’s desire for an open and inviting interior, ideal for entertaining friends and family. To achieve this, Gudbjørg strategically positioned the interior to offer captivating views, and create a sense of expansiveness. She ensured there were no objects obstructing the windows, to encourage maximum natural light to permeate the whole space. Furthermore, to evoke feelings of warmth and tranquillity a neutral colour palette was adopted, with timber used to enhance the organic and natural feel. Sophisticated accents of Italian marble and stone added a luxurious touch, and fulfilled the client’s desire to include reminders of his overseas travels. The pièce de résistance of this project was the main open living space, organised around a grand fireplace. This captivating focal point created a cozy and inviting environment where occupants can gather, share stories, and create lasting memories. Such careful attention to detail is a clear marker for Gudbjørg Simonsen AS as a business that cares deeply, and uses design in a way that evokes emotions and enhances wellbeing. Gudbjørg truly hopes to enrich the lives of her clients with her amazing design philosophy. As for the future, she has already set a number of business goals to help innovate within the design industry, whilst always staying true to her personal ethos. She has a desire to further deepen her understanding concerning the way our surroundings influence our emotional state. By exploring research and staying abreast of the latest studies in environmental psychology, She hopes to be able to create more spaces that truly resonate with the human experience, and realise clients’ dreams and aspirations. Gudbjørg’s holistic approach to design truly embraces the concept of ‘the whole is greater than the sum of its parts’, and proves that harmonious spaces really can seamlessly integrate architecture, interior design, and clients’ desires. Company: Gudbjørg Simonsen AS Web Address: www.gudbjorgsimonsen.com Contact Name: Gudbjørg Simonsen Jun23645
Autumn 2023 | 13 Founded in the 13th century by Cistercian monks, Abbaye De Villeneuve has since become a countryside hotel that’s fully immersed in the beauty of Nantes. Its peaceful, rural location presents guests with the chance to indulge in an understated elegance, all whilst experiencing everything that the French countryside has to offer. We delve into how Abbaye De Villeneuve consistently accumulates the favour of tourists, couples, and families alike through its tasteful, intimate atmosphere. Most Outstanding Countryside Heritage Hotel 2023 - France the definition of luxury, all whilst maintaining an understated nature that allows guests to feel right at home. Comfort is paramount for this majestic hotel, and it’s the pursuit of this cosy intimacy that has allowed Abbaye De Villeneuve to garner such a fabulous reputation. Each detail has been carefully considered with guests in mind, all to concoct an atmosphere that embodies what a relaxing getaway should feel like. Truly, Abbaye De Villeneuve is a hotel that is about the experience. It centres itself around its location and heritage, and is more than eager to express its love for both to its guests. This, mingled with its desire to support local communities through sourcing produce from the surrounding area, transforms Abbaye De Villeneuve into a unique entity unlike any other hotel within France. In addition, Abbaye De Villeneuve is tirelessly working to maintain its elegance, all whilst doing its best to protect the environment. Selflessness and a pride for its origins is what defines Abbaye De Villeneuve, and it’s clear to see throughout every inch of the hotel. Preserving the history of a building that was founded centuries ago is no easy feat. And yet, Abbaye De Villeneuve has been able to do the impossible – not only has it refined the structure to forge the perfect French countryside getaway, but it’s done so whilst keeping its legacy intact. The result is a hotel that guests simply can’t say no to. There’s a brilliance and nuance on display here that sets Abbaye De Villeneuve apart as a must-visit to any who find themselves interested in French history. We believe that no hotel is more deserving of the title of Most Outstanding Countryside Heritage Hotel 2023 – France than Abbaye De Villeneuve. Contact: Thierry Kremper Company: Abbaye De Villeneuve Web Address: https://abbayedevilleneuve.com/en/ oasting comfortable hotel rooms, recreation activities, and Michelin star dining experiences, Abbaye De Villeneuve is a hotel that manages to strike the balance between innovation and the preservation of its legacy. In modernising a building that was founded centuries ago, it now represents how to tastefully adapt a crucial piece of history, all whilst staying connected to its roots. This is what makes Abbaye De Villeneuve so special – its rich history enhances the experience of any guest, no matter the age, which ultimately transforms it into a simply unforgettable experience. Partner this with the quaint surroundings, and you’ve got a hotel that seeks to deliver the highest level of relaxation possible. Tranquillity is essential, and its team will do everything in its power to ensure that its guests are content at all times. Its services are nothing short of exceptional, and promote an unapologetic passion for creating a friendly environment in which all feel welcome and comfortable. The hospitality on display from Abbaye De Villeneuve is second to none within France, and with such a steadfast commitment to quality, it’s continuously innovating in the hopes of forging even more opportunities for guests to relish in. That isn’t to say, however, that Abbaye De Villeneuve doesn’t already have a plethora of facilities for guests to enjoy. Whether this takes the form of its weekly yoga classes, through which participants can truly unwind and free themselves of their daily stresses, or manifests through the tours that guests can partake in in order to gain a deeper appreciation for the surrounding area, it manages to deliver to an uncontested standard. Luxury is so commonly sought after nowadays, and Abbaye De Villeneuve has mastered the art of combining said luxury with simplicity to concoct a truly perfect environment for its guests. Abbaye De Villeneuve has been crafted with a focus on elegance, married with a sense of calm. The result is what we see today – a hotel that’s both irrefutably filled with refined amenities that represent B Jun23456
Jun22596 14 | LUXlife Magazine Best Ayahuasca Retreat 2023 – Spain Ayahuasca has been used for thousands of years but can still offer the modern world a way of healing trauma and exploring our connection to the self and each other. OMMIJ is the number one center for ayahuasca and plant medicine in the world. It is a healing hub with open arms to anyone wishing to embark on a deeply meaningful spiritual journey. Here we learn more about OMMIJ, and its Founder Ramon Geurts, as it wins a tremendous title in the Resorts and Retreats Awards 2023. Ayahuasca is a tea usually made from the leaves of the Psychotria viridis shrub with stalks of the Banisteriopsis caapi vine in water. Traditionally made by a shaman or experienced healer, Ayahuasca is a sacred drink created to be used for spiritual and religious ceremonies. With deep cultural roots, ayahuasca has been used for centuries by ancient Amazonian tribes and many other people in various parts of the world through to this very day. Many believe that ayahuasca is a healer of trauma, whether that be present pain or the type that has lingered for years, or even generations – and OMMIJ is a collective of believers who strive to bring the magic of ayahuasca to the world. “OMMIJ originates from the Dutch words “om” and “mij”, meaning “to/ about” and “me”. We believe that the majority of psychologic illnesses like depression and anxiety are caused by traumatic events, which most people faced in their childhood, and which led to a separation between that person’s self and its emotions, feelings, and body.” As many of us feel, the connection with ourselves is of utmost importance. We move through our daily lives wanting to progress in some way or another, whether that’s through our connections with others, career, movement on projects, or simply finding more peace within ourselves. We live in a demanding world full of responsibilities
Autumn 2023 | 15 and potential stresses that can make us feel as though we have lost our way and our connection to what makes us who we are. However, with OMMIJ, we can find our way back home, back to the person we truly are. OMMIJ’s healing guidance helps us to sing our truths again – and make connections that will stand the test of time. OMMIJ was founded in 2011 as a Healing Center in the Netherlands and, over time, it has become home for thousands of people from around the globe. Everyone who visits OMMIJ has one thing in common, they are searching for a source of deep healing and awakening within themselves. This awakening is an empowering rebirth of divine timing. OMMIJ’s retreat in Spain offers ayahuasca and San Pedro ceremonies alongside Kambo, yoga, meditation, ecstatic dance, visionary painting, immersion in nature, sharing circles, and so much more. By experiencing the retreat as a group, this collective oneness brings us closer to ourselves and the people which surround us, resulting in a network of spiritually awakened individuals sharing moments that they will never forget. OMMIJ has been the world's number one provider of ayahuasca ceremonies since 2011. It has been organizing multi-day plant medicine retreats in the glorious south of Spain, so that more people can have access to the healing medicine they need to experience their awakening for themselves – without having to travel to the distant Amazon. Back in 2011, OMMIJ’s Founder, Ramon Geurts, and his spiritual brother René, took the plunge to create something incredible. They created the healing hub that has helped thousands of people to this day. René left OMMIJ five years ago to start a new career in his center Acsauhaya, and Ramon’s mission remained – to keep working with OMMIJ well in to the future. This is when Ramon, and his wife Klaudia, decided to set up their retreats and Be Free Retreat Centers, and moved to Spain. From this moment, Ramon was free to follow his own heart, and able to share his best intentions with the world. His love and dedication was poured into the “work of OMMIJ” and, today, Ramon, Klaudia, and his team have now received the title of Best Ayahuasca Retreat 2023 – Spain. Ramon knew that plant medicine could ultimately unlock the secret power within everyone, without having to visit a shaman in the far away Amazon, and he understands that all we need to heal is already within ourselves – we just need to be able to access that divine power. This is exactly where plant medicine comes in. Here plant medicine, such as ayahuasca, is the facilitator for our inner healing and spiritual work. Our experience of it can help us to open up our minds to the power of nature, and this overwhelmingly powerful medicine allows us to speak inwards and find out who we truly are, what we feel we are missing, then find our truth, healing, and exceptional freedom. Ramon knew that what we all needed was within us to begin with, but he also knew that, for many, what we needed was buried so deep beneath years of trauma and pain. By pushing his plant medicine knowledge into the world, Ramon grew a team of more than 42 people in the Netherlands and, since 2018, Spain. He has seen OMMIJ run healing journeys for over 40,000 people in more than 76 countries in the world – with 20 new ayahuasca centers established by people who were trained at OMMIJ. These loving spaces are filled with individuals who wish to open their minds and their hearts, connect with one another, and explore the self so that they too can experiences oneness, happiness, and pure bliss. For people wishing to find their true selves, rid themselves of limiting beliefs, and take back the control over their lives and overcome depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, and more, OMMIJ is the space for true transformation. With over 1,000 five-star ratings and over 40,000 happy participants, OMMIJ has touched people’s lives in a way that nothing else has. Suzanna Marks said, “I believe that the profound insights and healings that I have experienced and observed here at OMMIJ could not have come about in any other way. I was a sceptic. Now I am a believer. Plant medicine is powerful and sacred and receives the greatest respect at OMMIJ.” Daria Norris commented, “I have been to many retreats around the world in my life. But as a solo female traveler, OMMIJ's retreat in Spain is the only choice in the world where you can feel safe and at ease.” Andreas Becksmith also shared, “I can't express how grateful I am for everyone who helped me change my life. From the location, the food, the amenities, and the guides, my stay was beyond amazing! I went in alone and came out with a whole new loving family!” The individuals that visit OMMIJ have trusted the process, put their wellbeing in the hands of the team, and come out the other side of such a significant spiritual experience with more than a glow, they have a new way of life. The OMMIJ community is a tribe of wonderful beings who all share the same sentiment, they wish to evolve their consciousness, experience deep universal love, and heal themselves so that they too can help to heal the rest of the world. A final word from the team at OMMIJ: “We feel deep gratitude for having helped so many people through our therapeutic ceremonies heal from various illnesses and finally live a more self-determined, authentic and healthy life. For those people, OMMIJ has become their tribe: a loving and caring community of free souls and openminded people where everyone can express their feelings, open their hearts, share meaningful learnings, get inspiration and support, but also celebrate life and enjoy a good laugh. Coming to a ceremony at OMMIJ means coming home.” With its existing retreats in the Netherlands and Spain, and daily ceremonies in Doetinchem, Holland, OMMIJ has built a huge following. Its tribe constantly expands, many revisit, and OMMIJ is truly proud to be a part of such a powerful movement. This life changing holiday is more than a just a dream come true, it is a gateway into a new, transformative lifestyle that leaves us feeling complete with a sense of deep belonging. If you’re someone who wants to experience a full transformation to overcome obstacles and feel at one with yourself, and your surroundings, OMMIJ’s Spanish retreat is the perfect getaway for you. Feel free to visit its website today for more information. Due to the extreme and constant growth of the number of participants, OMMIJ is open to discuss the possibilities of entering into a partnership with interested resort/retreat entrepreneurs around the world. If you’re interested, please reach out to OMMIJ. Contact: Ramon Geurts Company: OMMIJ Web Address: www.om-mij.nl/en
16 | LUXlife Magazine s luxury holiday home designers, Sophie & Boo LLP creates schemes with simple, timeless style for both private clients and developers. By applying its prowess in crafting wistful environments in which holiday-goers can spend their time away from home, it’s managed to coalesce a collection of holiday homes, each brimming with personality. Its designs aren’t just practical – they perfectly unite comfort and style in order to produce some of the most breath-taking interiors throughout the UK. In addition, Sophie & Boo LLP works closely with local craftspeople and builders, all to guarantee a uniqueness that’s overseen by the brilliant minds behind the design. Creating Beautiful and Timeless Interiors It takes a true eye for style for one to craft a stunning retreat for holiday-goers. You have to be able to create a home away from home, all whilst encouraging the feeling of rest and relaxation. Combining these elements is essential, but can prove somewhat difficult. Thankfully, Norfolk-based Sophie & Boo LLP, winner of the title of Best Luxury Holiday Home Design Firm 2023 - East Anglia, has every tool at its disposal to design interiors that’ll stand the test of time. Below, we venture into how Sophie & Boo LLP has amassed an expansive portfolio of luxurious holiday home interiors. Attention to detail is a core aspect of Sophie & Boo LLP’s design process. It truly understands what it takes to develop a luxurious space for its clients, and has gone above and beyond time and time again in order to deliver schemes and concepts that perfectly encapsulate everything that a holiday home should be. From its work on Apple Tree Cottage in Burham Market – a homely, pristine retreat location – to its development of Norfolk Farmhouse – a rustic escape from the modern world - Sophie & Boo LLP has proven that it has an eye for the intricacies of holiday home design. If clients opt to work with Sophie & Boo LLP, they can expect an unwavering dedication to crafting the best interiors possible, each suited perfectly to whatever the brief may detail. It draws on the expertise of its founder, Sophie, to forge full interior, lighting, kitchen, and bathroom designs that are capable of moulding a space into something truly special. Partner this with its eagerness to see its schemes come to life, and you’ve got an interior designer that truly holds an immense amount of passion for its craft. No matter the scale, Sophie & Boo LLP will apply a consistent level of excellence to achieve every party’s desired outcome. From single rooms to full property design, Sophie & Boo LLP covers a variety of areas. It works alongside clients to understand their vision, and has a mastery over creating concept images and full detail designs. Once everything has been approved, Sophie & Boo LLP will eagerly oversee the execution of the project. It takes great pleasure in watching its designs manifest into luxurious holiday homes that are set to be enjoyed by individuals from all over. From sourcing furniture and accessories, to forging unique pieces that add a wholly individual flair to a property, Sophie & Boo LLP pursues the partnership between innovation and luxury. Sophie & Boo LLP truly is a holiday home interior designer that has made its mark on the industry. Not only has it accumulated a proven track record of designing homely, timeless properties for private clients, but it’s demonstrated a constant dedication to capturing their vision, no matter how outlandish. Its pursuit of luxury interiors is never ending, resulting in a design firm that is able to produce masterpieces again and again. The holiday home sphere has never been outfitted with so much style, and we’re sure that Sophie & Boo LLP will continue to represent what it means to be the Best Luxury Holiday Home Design Firm 2023 - East Anglia. Contact: Sophie Allsopp Company: Sophie & Boo LLP Web Address: https://www.sophieandboo.co.uk/ A Jun23162
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