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The real adventure

L’Hotel de Mr. Gautier

Resulting from a combination of the classic Saharan adventure with the utmost in luxury living and dining, L’Hotel de Mr. Gautier is a new concept in desert exploration and discovery. The wonders of Saharan Egypt and Libya have proven to capture the imagination of wanderers since time immemorial. Yet to experience them, you long had to be in for a very rough journey, indeed. With L’Hotel de Mr. Gautier comfort and style accompanies you on your expedition allowing for fantastic cuisine, refreshing sleep in luxurious quarters, and travelling in comfort and style. Discover the stark beauty of the desert landscape, awe–inspiring geological curiosities and the archaeological treasures dating to the origins of civilization. The exceptional organization and professional guides of these tours organized by Harmattan Tour Operator will be the perfect introduction to cultural, spiritual and emotional aspects of the Sahara.

Car manufacturers you’ve never heard of

Farbio Sports Cars

Nationality:	United Kingdom
Founded:	2004
Model line–up:	Farbio GTS and SuperCharged GTS
Product description:	The route followed when developing the Farbio range was clearly defined: a powerful engine, high–tech space framed steel chassis and carbon fibre body, race inspired seating, racing brakes, advanced aerodynamics incorporating a flat underfloor with rear diffuser, all these ingredients combined with a beautifully styled body. Add an exceptionally spacious and refined interior and excellent all round visibility to obtain a Farbio GTS.
Current price: (excl. tax and ex factory)	€75,000 for the GTS €90,000 for the SuperCharged GTS
Annual production:	60 cars in 2008, 160 cars in 2009
Waiting list:	8 months
Company founder:	Chris Marsh
Childhood hero:	Jim Clark
Founder’s favourite car:	Farbio GTS
Would love to own:	Marcos LM600 race car that Chris drove at Lemans in 1995
Website:	www.farbiosportscars.com

Private Islands & Villas

Cayo Espanto

This four acre resort island off Belize’s Ambregris Caye offers a new level of privacy to those couples looking to revel in each other’s company and leave the rest of the world behind. The resort offers no public areas, with most of your stay taking place in your finely appointed villa. Each guest is assigned a butler who will impress with an almost mind reader’s ability to discreetly anticipate and address your needs. Your personal chef will drop by and help you select your meals before he serves them to you en suite or in your romantic torch–lit garden. For exploration, the secluded patches of dreamy beaches perfectly fit the bill. In room spa treatments including deep tissue massage, facials and fresh coconut and coffee scrubs will leave your muscles feeling like putty and your skin feeling like silk. Refreshing dips in your private pool complete a relaxing day with the object of your affection. Overwater bungalow prices starting from €625 per night.

Website: www.aprivateisland.com

Great Mercury Island

Cradled in the vast expanse and seclusion of the Pacific Ocean, lies Great Mercury Island. Here is found an exclusive island experience on a truly grand scale. The island’s 5,000 sprawling acres are covered with lush pine forests and criss–crossed with hiking trails. Within this unparalleled wonderland are two stunning homes able to accommodate up to 16 guests. Each of the two superb villas sits atop rolling hillsides with panoramic views just a stone’s throw from beautiful white sand beaches and the limitless sea beyond. Accessed by private helicopter, just a 25 minute ride from Auckland New Zealand, holidays on the island are defined by the guests’ relationship with the sea. With a range of water activities from kayaking, wind–surfing, water skiing, snorkeling and fishing, a truly island holiday awaits you. Per villa €5,150 per day or, for exclusive use of the island, for a group of 6 or less, cost approximately €12,500 daily.

Website: www.seasonz.co.nz

Cruising & Yachting

Kite Sailing Kitano Yacht

As unlikely as it was 100 years ago to predict what today’s pleasure boats would look like — with their roller–reefing, stainless–and–plastic hulls, bristling with antennas, solar panels and water makers — it has been equally difficult to predict what the boat designers of the future will bring us. The first hints can be found in Stefanie Krucke’s breathtaking design concept, the Kite Sailing Kitano Yacht. This innovative new design benefits from fantastic technological breakthroughs and superb individual vision. The kite uses a much smaller surface area than a normal sail but because it operates at a much higher altitude, it takes advantage of stronger wind speeds than traditional sailing vessels and can achieve much higher speeds on the water. It also is equipped with a hydraulically operated centerboard which allows for sailing in shallow water and littorals without risk. This award–winning design can accommodate up to 8 passengers in sumptuous, eco–friendly luxury comfort.

Website: www.princessofstyle.net

Shadow Marine

The first manufacturer in the world to specialize in mega–yacht support vessels, Shadow Marine, with its quality craftsmanship and pioneering vision, has been a welcome beacon for the discerning yachtsman since its inception. Proving that elegance and utility are not mutually exclusive concepts in large pleasure craft is the new Allure Class of custom–designed private and commercial vessels. Shadow Marine has recently expanded its vision to include this new hybrid vessel which combines the elegance, grace, and comfort of conventional yacht designs with the utility and flexibility intrinsic to the Shadow boat concept. With hull designs ranging up to 240’ and full customization, available options are limited only to your imagination. Versatility, elegance, luxury, utility and seaworthiness — who says you can’t have it all?

Website: www.shadowmarine.com

Aviation

Lufthansa further strengthens premium product with all–business Indian route.

Lufthansa plans a new all–business service to India, operating between Frankfurt and the city of Pune. The route will be flown by Swiss premium–class charter specialist PrivatAir which will use Airbus A319 aircraft configured with 48 seats. Pune will be served six times per week from July 1^st, bringing to seven the number of Indian destinations on Lufthansa’s network. PrivatAir already provides all–business flights on other Lufthansa routes including services to Newark, Chicago and Dubai. Furthermore, Lufthansa will be expanding its private jet capacity to compete against charter companies and retain first–class passengers. Lufthansa is acquiring two CJ3s and XLS+ adding to a previous order for four of the CJ1+. Scheduled for delivery between March 2008 and mid–2009 they will operate in the Lufthansa private jet fleet which provides point–to–point flights among 1,000 destinations in Europe and Russia.

Marrakech to welcome business aviation

Morocco’s Marrrakech Menara Airport is planning a dedicated business aviation terminal up and running in 2009. The airport is also aiming to attract business aviation companies – none of which currently have facilities at the airport. Business aviation aircraft will use the same runway as the commercial airliners, but have an independent building and security processes.

India’s Deccan plans to purchase 15 business aircraft in expansion

Deccan Charters, which will soon be divested from India’s Deccan Aviation, plans a spending spree of approximately 15 business aircraft to establish itself as a leading provider of corporate aviation in the country. The company is close to confirming a deal for a Hawker 400XP, and is assessing aircraft made by Hawker, Cessna and Bombardier for its fleet. It is also eyeing a number of single–engine and twin–engine helicopters to use for tourism and to ferry VIPs within India. Many in the Asian business aviation business industry believe India has the potential for the highest growth in the region because of its booming economy and large number of multi–millionaires. The country’s woeful infrastructure and constant delays in scheduled air services mean helicopters and private aircraft are emerging as a viable way for executives to travel around.

Hotels & Resorts

Anahita

The island paradise of Mauritius, washed by the sparkling blue waters of the Indian Ocean is the home to the privileged estates of Anahita. These 70 luxury residences have been carefully designed to blend in harmony with the surrounding landscape and benefit from the soothing sea breezes. With breathtaking views across a sheltered lagoon, majestic mountain peaks and lush vegetation, these elegant island retreats will lavish your senses. In addition to being a true sportsman’s paradise with access to an 18 hole championship golf course designed by Ernie Els, fishing adventures, trekking in the pristine forests and quad and mountain biking, guests can enjoy a full complement of country club amenities including, in–room massage treatments, fitness center, and professionally–managed crèche.

Town House Galleria

This intimate and exclusive 7 stars boutique hotel found in the heart of Milan has the distinction and honour of being the only hotel located in the historical ‘Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II’ built in 1876. Uniquely preserved artwork and craftsmanship is stylistically melded with discreet yet opulent furnishings to reflect the history, charm and style of one of the world’s true fashion capitals. With such attentions to detail as hand painted vaulted ceilings, en suite Italian coffee machines and a selection of the most sought–after contemporary literature, the Town House Galleria assures even the most distinguished travellers will have a truly memorable stay. The Restaurante La Sinfonia offers the utmost in classic Italian dining with an eye toward uniquely new culinary twists, all accompanied by an extensive choice of the finest wines.

Moonlight Head Private Lodge

An oasis on the midpoint of the Great Ocean Road in coastal Victoria, Moonlight Head Private Lodge is a combination of privacy, tranquility and luxury set harmoniously in a serene natural setting. This all–inclusive retreat hidden among tracts of mature Eucalypts which make up the Australian bush, offers unmatched, almost hedonistic levels of comfort and variety. With leisure activities including trekking or motor biking in the Outback, sightseeing by helicopter, fishing, golfing, whalewatching and scuba diving and much more, the lodge offers something to grab the imagination of almost everyone. For those just wishing to relax and rejuvenate, there is always the option of being pampered with a range of treatments designed to soothe and soften. Meals are led by the desires of the guests with the chefs creating a dining experience to tempt each and every individual palate.

Hotel Bellevue Syrene

On the most picturesque promontory of Old Sorrento, overlooking the Mediterranean’s magnificent Gulf of Napoli, sits the beautiful Hotel Bellevue Syrene. This former 18^th century villa has recently been renovated into a dazzling 5–star haven high above the seas. With architectural influences such as fish pools and nymphaeas harking back to the days of the Romans, this historic hotel pays homage to former glory while enveloping its guests in modern accoutrements. Old World terraces give postcard–perfect views of the great Mount Vesuvius whose fury doomed the flourishing Pompeiians so many generations ago, while relaxing steam bath and massage rooms evoke ancient excess amid modern luxury. Guests may also enjoy fantastic cuisine which offers a rich selection of dishes with an emphasis on preparation to the finest local culinary tradition.

Gadgets & Wannahaves

Napshell

For years researchers have been convinced of the positive therapeutic effects of the “power nap”. NASA research has found that short naps, especially after meals, increase concentration, creativity and improve reaction time. One city in Saxony has found that since the introduction of power–napping into the daily schedule, the general health of its employees has improved, resulting in fewer days lost to employee absence and increased productivity. Finally, a product has arrived that is scientifically designed to allow people to gain maximum health benefits from the endeavour — the Napshell. Created with an eye toward extensive studies of human movements, the Napshell facilitates a relaxing sleep position that helps to relieve stress on the back and spine and promotes overall health. Also incorporated into the design are visual and acoustic elements that promote relaxation and comfort. The Napshell can be easily fitted into most offices and corridors and can be customized to fit individual needs.

Website: www.napshell.com

Gresso Phones

A new entry into the luxury mobile phone market, Russian based Gresso Avantgarde introduces its Black Aura Collection. This line is comprised of two phones made from rare African Blackwood with titanium and gold finishings, and a third made entirely of pink gold. They rate among the most expensive mobile phones in the world — a must have for the elite shopper who has it all. The Blackwood editions are singularly unique models, hand–crafted from the wood of one of the heartiest and most exotic trees found on earth, some as old as 200 years. All mobile phones are equipped with the features that today’s consumers demand including, MS Outlook, Pocket MSN, EMS/MMS/SMS, Bluetooth and PC synchronization. Prices are safely in the “jaw–dropping” zone starting at €5000.

Website: www.gresso.com

Palm Marine Submarines

Mankind’s fascination with the sea has inspired some of its greatest achievements. Exploring her depths and mysteries has consumed the imaginations of some of our greatest thinkers since before documented history. Now a pioneering submarine company, Palm Marine, has a line of new personal submersibles that allow universal access to the underwater world. The clean lines and optional Kevlar–reinforced construction ensure a safe smooth ride for up to 10 passengers. Palm Marine offers a selection of subs with depth ratings to 650 meters and options such as a low signature coating to reduce radar detection and a sophisticated 360 degree sonar system to alert you to submerged objects and help you plan and execute your dives. These technologically advanced, cutting edge vessels come with a step–by–step factory training program which extends to all captain and crew.

Website: www.palmmarine.ae

Your Inside Partner

Outback Encounter

The famed Australian Outback is a place as formidable, diverse and intimidating as any on Earth. With secrets and mysteries revealed only to its indigenous Aboriginal people dating back millennia and a wide range of magnificent flora and fauna that has evolved in isolation for millions of years, this biological dreamland is a place of magical complexity and stunning geographical Wonderment. For those interested in seeing firsthand one of the last truly unknown territories on the planet, Outback Encounter will take you there and ensure a memorable, worry–free experience. This one–of–a–kind company specializes in providing customized itineraries focusing on private and often unknown jewels of the wilderness and outback regions of the country. Choose from destinations such as coastal fishing camps, island hideaways, country retreats, flying safaris, reef and river cruises and a range of other outback adventures. Whatever your Australian fantasy, Outback Encounter will take you there in style.

Lifestyle Planner

Fractional Life Expo

Never before has the art of conspicuous consumption been easier. The Fractional Life Expo to be held at the prestigious Broadgate Events Venue in the heart of London from the 28^th — 30^th of April will be dedicated to showcasing the products and advantages of fractional ownership. In the world of the modern high–end investor and purchaser, time demands don’t allow for the full benefit of many luxuries such as exclusive vacation properties, private aviation or signature supercars. Today more people are turning to fractional ownership of these products, allowing for wider access, a chance for capital appreciation such as with property, shared asset depreciation as is the case with motor vehicles, and a lesser environmental impact which is fast becoming a prime motivator. The event will offer a broad range of goods and services all under one roof and allow you to speak face–to–face with a multitude of fractional operators. The Fractional Life Expo — dedicated to everything fractional.

Website: www.fractionallifeexpo.com

A Perfect Gift

The Private Collection — Edition 2008

The latest arrival in the series of luxurious coffee table books has again experienced a staggering success ever since its public launches in Cannes and Monte–Carlo earlier this year. Once more reported to be the most stunningly beautiful of inspiring travel books, the Private Collection – Edition 2008 is now available through the elite XO Private corporate partner network of private banks and other luxury lifestyle providers. Alternatively, should you not be a privileged client of one of them, you can now order your own, personal copy of the portfolio on the XO Private website. Don’t wait any longer and order your copy now or surprise a friend with a fabulous and most original gift!