Mark Udell still remembers the persistence it took. In 1976, as a young man working in his parents’ small Glen Cove jewellery store, he spent two years calling Rolex, determined to carry the iconic brand. “They kind of blew me off at first,” he recalls, a grin in his voice. “But I didn’t stop. Finally, Bob Reynolds came out to meet me and said, ‘You are so persistent, we’re going to sell you the line.’ I was over the moon.” That first Rolex? A modest gold Day-Date President. Retail price: $2,700. “I said to my dad, ‘How are we going to sell a watch for $2,700?’” Udell laughs. “He said, ‘We have no choice.’ By that evening, a local doctor saw the watch in the window, and it was sold.” Today, a similar model, 40mm Everose gold with a green dial, retails for $47,500, and that’s before factoring in the secondary market premium. Fast-forward nearly 50 years, and Udell’s vision has scaled magnificently. London Jewellers has just unveiled its newest Rolex boutique in East Hampton, a sprawling 4,800-square-foot space at 28 Newton Lane, on prime real estate Udell once leased to Chanel. It is the company’s second standalone Rolex boutique, joining Short Hills, New Jersey, alongside the Rolex showroom in Manhasset, New York. Since opening two weeks ago, lines have regularly stretched down the block. The boutique itself is an exercise in quiet grandeur. Housed in the historic Odd Fellows Hall, built in 1897 by architect Joseph Greenleaf Thorp, the grey cedar-shingled building with crisp white trim sits amid manicured lawns, towering evergreens, and pristine hydrangeas. Inside, brown leather couches beckon, Rolex-green velvet chairs gleam under the soft light, and chevron-style parquet floors reflect the subtle shimmer of Verpi Alpi marble with fluted patterns that echo the brand’s iconic bezels. Even the custom lighting pays homage to the Cyclops date window, a nod to Rolex’s meticulous design philosophy. Every corner of the boutique is curated for both spectacle and intimacy. On the ground floor, gleaming vitrives display the hottest GMT-Master IIs, pastel Oyster Perpetuals, and rare gold Deepsea models. Upstairs, clients can linger at a bar serving London Jewellers’ signature watermelon margarita or negotiate access to the coveted Daytona collection in a private VIP salon. Outside, a tranquil patio with firepit and hydrangea-framed tables offers the perfect backdrop for mingling. Udell has noticed a new wave of international clients, including Europeans seeking the safety and serenity of the Hamptons. “If you come out here, you can walk around with anything,” he says, noting the town’s swift and attentive police force. “We had a false alarm last week; they were here in two minutes.” The boutique has already become a magnet for the discerning and famous. Mark Wahlberg, John Mayer, and Andy Cohen have reportedly visited, reinforcing that even celebrities must navigate the Crown’s world with care. “Time is luxury,” quips store manager Maria Triburgo, blending a wink with sage advice as staff encourage patrons to savour both the watches and the experience. From a small mom-and-pop shop to one of the East Coast’s most spectacular Rolex destinations, London Jewellers has proven that persistence and an eye for elegance never go out of style. In East Hampton, luxury isn’t just on display; it’s lived.

Rolls-Royce first unveiled the Phantom in 1925, and a century later, the marque is still crafting its ultimate expression of automotive luxury. The latest generation, the Phantom VIII, debuted in 2017, and to mark this milestone, Rolls-Royce staged an audacious tribute: placing one in a swimming pool. The scene was Tinside Lido, the historic Art Deco public pool in Plymouth, England. Built in 1935 and famously photographed with the Beatles in 1967 during the filming of Magical Mystery Tour , the Lido has its own storied past. After years of disrepair, it was restored and reopened in 2005, making it a fitting backdrop for the Phantom’s centenary celebration. To bring the stunt to life, Rolls-Royce used a retired Phantom VIII prototype destined for recycling. The car was first loaded onto a boat, steered poolside, and then lifted by crane onto a platform floating in the water, creating the striking illusion that the car was peacefully floating, as effortlessly as a human might. Photographers and videographers were on hand to immortalise the scene, ensuring that this tribute would endure, and perhaps even outlast the myths that inspired it. The inspiration? A legendary, if apocryphal, story from 1972. Keith Moon, the drummer of the Who, is said to have driven a Rolls-Royce into a Holiday Inn pool in Flint, Michigan. In reality, the vehicle was probably a Lincoln Continental that rolled in due to a handbrake mishap, or, more likely, there was no car at all, just the chaos of a rock star-fuelled night involving fire extinguishers, a food fight, and general mayhem. As Moon’s biography recounts, the night ended only when police arrived with guns drawn. For generations, the myth mattered more than the fact. It cemented the Phantom as a symbol not only of refined luxury but of audacious, larger-than-life personalities. Rolls-Royce embraced this legend, echoing the brand’s longstanding connection to music and celebrity. “From the Golden Age of Hollywood to the rise of hip-hop, over the last 100 years, music artists have used Phantom to project their identity and challenge convention,” said Chris Brownridge, CEO of Rolls-Royce. “Their motor cars often became icons in their own right, with a lasting place in the history of modern music. This enduring connection reminds us that Rolls-Royce and the extraordinary people who are part of the marque’s story are united by one ambition: to make their presence felt.” The Phantom has long been a favourite among the world’s elite. John Lennon famously commissioned a yellow Phantom V adorned with psychedelic flowers and swirls, now on display at the Royal BC Museum in Victoria, Canada. Elton John’s white Phantom VI, purchased impulsively en route to a Manchester concert in 1973, was later customised with black paintwork, a luxurious leather interior, tinted windows, a television, a video player, a fax machine, and a bespoke audio system so powerful that the rear windscreen needed reinforcement. Other luminaries, from Marlene Dietrich to Elvis Presley and Liberace, have similarly embraced the marque, often with their own flair. For its 100th anniversary, Rolls-Royce has celebrated not just a car, but a century of culture, legend, and personality, reminding the world that the Phantom has always been more than transportation; it is a statement, a spectacle, and above all, an enduring icon.

When an invitation to the VIP launch of The Henley Hideaway Oasis  landed in my inbox, I knew this was a summer evening not to be missed. Nestled along the Thames in the picturesque market town of Henley-on-Thames, The Relais Henley has long been a favourite for travellers seeking boutique charm in one of England’s most idyllic settings. This year, the hotel has raised the bar, unveiling a newly transformed courtyard that promises to become one of the hottest alfresco destinations in Oxfordshire. We arrived on a golden July evening, the light dancing off the river just metres from the hotel’s front door. The Relais Henley is perfectly placed for iconic local events such as Henley Royal Regatta and Henley Festival — just a short stroll from the water yet tucked away enough to feel like a peaceful retreat. Inside, the design pays homage to the golden age of travel, with a refined Art Deco style. Polished wood, geometric detailing, and deep jewel tones create an atmosphere that is both glamorous and warmly inviting. The evening’s celebrations were all about the new courtyard — The Henley Hideaway Oasis . Stepping outside was like slipping into another world. Gone were the crisp, nautical notes of the Thames; in their place, the warmth and vibrancy of Morocco. Rich terracotta walls glowed under the lantern light, low-slung seating was heaped with patterned cushions, and clusters of palms softened the space. The design struck a beautiful balance: exotic enough to transport you, yet still rooted in the sophistication that defines The Relais Henley. The scent of sizzling barbecue drifted through the courtyard as guests mingled with seasonal cocktails in hand. The evening’s menu had been curated by award-winning chef Dominic Chapman, who brought his signature flair to a series of summer dishes. Chargrilled meats, spiced vegetable skewers, fresh salads, and fragrant marinades gave a subtle nod to North African flavours while championing the best of British produce. As the live music began and glasses clinked in the sunset, it was clear the Hideaway Oasis was more than just a courtyard — it was a stage for unforgettable moments. After an evening of food, music, and conversation, retreating upstairs to my room was a pleasure. The accommodation at The Relais Henley is designed with the same attention to detail that defines its public spaces. My room looked out over the rooftops towards the river, with plush furnishings and a palette of deep blues and creams that felt restful yet refined. The bed was the kind you sink into, with crisp linens and perfectly plump pillows that almost guaranteed a deep sleep. Morning at The Relais Henley is an unhurried affair. Breakfast was served in the art-deco style dining room, offering everything from pastries and fresh fruit to a full English made to order. Sitting with coffee in hand, watching the town slowly come to life, I couldn’t help but reflect on how well the hotel bridges two worlds: the lively energy of Henley’s social calendar and the calm retreat of a luxury riverside escape. The new Henley Hideaway Oasis feels like a natural extension of that philosophy. By day, it’s an inviting spot for lunch in the sun or an afternoon cocktail; by night, it transforms into a lantern-lit lounge perfect for intimate gatherings. Its launch marks an exciting new chapter for The Relais Henley — one that blends its timeless riverside charm with a fresh, cosmopolitan flair. Whether you’re in town for the Regatta, the Festival, or simply seeking a weekend escape, The Relais Henley offers more than just a place to stay. It’s a destination that captures the spirit of Henley itself: elegant, sociable, and impossible to forget. With the Moroccan-inspired courtyard now part of its offering, this riverside gem has cemented its place as one of the most stylish stays in the region. https://therelaishenley.com/

Quiet mornings. Gentle breezes. Serene sunsets. These aren’t just poetic descriptions—they form the soul of Alo Yoga’s latest vision: the ‘Luxury Is Wellness’ Autumn–Winter 2025 campaign, helmed by their longtime muse, Kendall Jenner. Los Angeles–based premium fashion label Alo Yoga reaffirms its ethos with a refined collaboration: Kendall Jenner returns as the face of the ‘Luxury Is Wellness’ campaign. Filmed at the otherworldly Amangiri resort in Utah, the imagery captures a fusion of stillness and vitality—Jenner riding through sweeping desert canyons, poised in mindful motion, always calm, always elevated. In Jenner’s own words: “Alo’s philosophy around wellness truly reflects how I try to live: being intentional and taking care of myself from the inside out… the small rituals that keep me grounded” — a sentiment that echoes through every movement and fabric choice of this campaign. The Core Collection: Ten Essentials, Timeless Aesthetic At the heart of the launch is the Core Collection — ten elevated staples handpicked by Jenner, curated to embody Alo Yoga’s studio-to-street ethos. Think clean lines, versatile silhouettes, performance fabrics, and a muted palette of sophisticated neutrals. Standout pieces include: Airbrush One-and-Done Onesie — sculpted yet effortless, it promises one-step polish from mat to café. Aspire Tank + 5" Airbrush High-Waist Biker Short — minimal, sleek, foundational pieces that can anchor any look. Airlift Intrigue Bra + 5" Airlift Energy Short + Alo Runner sneaker — designed for elevated athleticism, with sculpting support and cushioned function. Additional selections, such as the Dreamscape Button-Down, complete the blend of functional polish and relaxed luxury. Amangiri’s sculptural beauty is more than a backdrop—it’s a character in this narrative. A place of dramatic canyons, evocative silence, and natural purity, it channels the quiet luxury at the heart of the campaign. Jenner moves with calm intensity, creating a visual dialogue between the land and her form. This campaign transcends conventional style. It's an invitation: luxury as wellness, curated simplicity, and calming presence in a hurried world. It celebrates slow rhythms, intentional ritual, and the elegance of everyday movement. As Alo declares: “True luxury is found in the moments that ground us, restore us, and bring us back to ourselves.” Rather than a one-off reveal, the campaign unfolds over time. Beginning with the Core Collection drop, new chapters—featuring fresh colours and styles—will emerge throughout October 2025, keeping the narrative alive and its followers engaged. Founded in 2007 by Danny Harris and Marco DeGeorge in Los Angeles, Alo Yoga has grown into a premium brand with global reach. Its name—derived from “air, land, and ocean”—suggests a connection to natural harmony. Celebrity endorsements, including Kendall Jenner, Hailey Bieber, and Bella Hadid, propelled its rise. Campaign Timeline at a Glance Date / Phase Details Now Campaign launch featuring Jenner at Amangiri for the Core Collection. October 2025 Successive drops revealing new colorways, styles, and narrative layers. https://www.aloyoga.com/

There’s a quiet power to Prada’s new Fall/Winter 2025 campaign. No grandstanding, no spectacle—just slow-motion swagger and cinematic clarity. Shot by Oliver Hadlee Pearch and directed on film by Frank Lebon, the campaign is titled “Prada Motion Pictures”  and it stars none other than Kendall Jenner, fronting a cast of Prada muses including Julia Nobis, Loli Bahia and Sora Choi. This isn’t the first time Jenner has lent her feline poise and sultry stare to the Italian house, but this season she’s part of something larger—a visual study in movement, collectivity and understated drama. Forget the glossy stills. This is fashion caught mid-step. The models glide in slow-motion across the frame, trench coats and tailored jackets swaying with a pulse. Prada isn’t just showcasing clothes here—it’s selling the sensation of motion, of energy, of being part of something in motion. And as always, it does so with artful precision. Tailoring, But Make It Emotional The styling is classic Prada: clean lines, muted tones, and silhouettes that feel at once structured and nonchalant. Crisp poplin shirting meets oversized wool outerwear; distressed skirts peek beneath fluid coats; glossy leather boots and sculptural handbags add polish to every look. Colours stay grounded—think charcoal, camel, black—with the occasional jolt of bubblegum pink or retro floral to remind you Prada doesn’t do dull. But what makes this campaign land is its intimacy. In the hands of creative directors Miuccia Prada and Raf Simons, fashion becomes a shared experience—not something static, but something lived. The slow-motion strut becomes a metaphor for the pace of modern life: deliberate, self-aware, but still moving forward. Kendall, Recast Jenner, too, feels reimagined. Stripped of red-carpet flash, she appears more grounded—part of a wider narrative rather than the star of her own show. Her walk is assured, not aggressive. Her presence, magnetic but not overplayed. It’s a reminder that luxury now means restraint, not excess. A Campaign for Now In a saturated world of digital noise, Prada Motion Pictures  feels like a breath of cool, considered air. It’s a campaign that doesn’t shout to be noticed. It draws you in—slowly, surely, stylishly. It’s no accident that this moment feels cinematic. The real luxury today? Having the space to move at your own pace.

This summer, Dior and Harrods have teamed up to create the ultimate luxury shopping fantasy—one that fuses heritage, theatre, and style in the most spectacular way. From now until 27 August 2025, the Dior “Lucky” pop-up is open inside Harrods, inviting visitors into a whimsical, charm-filled world of couture, customisation and couture mystique. The relationship between Dior and Harrods dates back nearly 70 years. What began as a shared appreciation for craftsmanship and elegance has evolved into a series of spellbinding collaborations—and this season’s pop-up may be their most enchanting yet. The entire experience is inspired by Christian Dior’s fascination with luck, superstition and charms. Think star motifs, four-leaf clovers, bees, tarot cards and zodiac signs—all elegantly woven into the collection, décor, and activations throughout the space. It’s more than retail—it’s a spellbinding fashion experience. The space itself is breathtaking: oversized tarot cards, pastel installations and celestial motifs transform Harrods into an immersive fairytale. Every corner is Instagram gold, with magic in every mirror and luxury in every detail. The pop-up offers exclusive access to Dior’s Lucky Collection —a curated line of handbags, accessories and leather goods embellished with charms and symbols of fortune. Even more enticing is the customisation station, where visitors can personalise their Dior Book Tote or Lady Dior with embroidered initials, star signs and shimmering gold tags. On select days, you’ll even find an in-house fortune-teller ready to read your cards—adding a layer of mysticism that elevates this from a shopping trip to a storybook moment. Why It’s a Must-Visit If you only visit one luxury installation in London this summer, make it this one. The Dior pop-up at Harrods offers: Exclusive pieces  you won’t find anywhere else Made-to-order customisation , adding true personal luxury A heritage-rich experience  with storytelling at its heart Retail theatre and innovation , with AR, fortune readings and more A visual wonderland  for content creators and style lovers alike Whether you’re in the market for a new handbag, a one-of-a-kind keepsake or a dose of couture fantasy, Dior’s Lucky pop-up is the place to be. The Dior Lucky Pop-Up is open at Harrods from now until 27 August 2025. Don’t miss your moment. For more luxury news, fashion features and exclusive experiences, stay tuned to The Life of Luxury.

If anyone knows where the stars are summering this year, it’s DeuxMoi . The Instagram gossip account turned cultural oracle has partnered with Trainline to spill the tea on where Hollywood’s elite are vacationing across Europe—and how you can follow in their (designer) footsteps without hopping on a private jet. Forget long-haul flights or flashy chauffeurs. From the French Riviera to the sun-drenched Amalfi Coast, this is a whistle-stop tour of the chicest celebrity-approved destinations, all accessible by train. Whether you're craving countryside calm like David Beckham or fashion capital flair à la Zendaya, here’s how to travel Europe like a star—just without the paparazzi. The Cotswolds, UK Spotted: David and Victoria Beckham, Will Poulter, Rupert Friend Only 90 minutes outside of London, this picture-perfect pocket of English countryside is a favourite with stars seeking serenity. Think thatched cottages, antique markets, and pubs with roaring fires—even in summer. Get there:  London Paddington to Moreton-in-Marsh (1.5 hours) Paris, France Spotted: Zoë Kravitz, Doechii, Theo James, Charlotte Le Bon Paris needs no introduction—but its celebrity fan club keeps growing. Between Fashion Week, Michelin-starred restaurants and quietly cool hotel stays, the City of Light remains a timeless playground for the rich and famous. Get there:  London (2h 15m), Marseille (3+ hours) Cannes, France Spotted: Pedro Pascal, Gabrielle Union, Austin Butler, Bella Hadid Long after the film festival wraps, Cannes continues to lure A-listers to its glittering coastline. From private yachts to poolside champagne, it’s luxury on full display. Get there:  From Marseille (just over 2 hours) or Nice (under 1 hour) Barcelona, Spain Spotted: Rosalia, Madelyn Cline, Lorde, Charli XCX Barcelona mixes beach life with creative cool, attracting musicians, artists and stylish jet-setters alike. The Gothic Quarter is a maze of moody wine bars and vintage finds, while the city’s rooftop scene is made for stargazing—of both kinds. Get there:  From Madrid (under 3 hours) or Málaga (6.5 hours) Madrid, Spain Spotted: Kylian Mbappé, Penélope Cruz, Javier Bardem, Josh Hutcherson, Dua Lipa This Spanish capital has a distinctly cinematic pull. Whether it's tapas at dusk or sultry flamenco shows, Madrid brings drama and elegance in equal measure. Get there:  From Seville (under 3 hours) or Barcelona (under 3 hours) Andalusia, Spain Spotted: Lena Headey, Gwendoline Christie, Keanu Reeves, Antonio Banderas, Robert De Niro Between the Game of Thrones backdrops in Seville and the star-studded beaches of Marbella, Andalusia is a sun-soaked siren call. Expect whitewashed villages, Moorish palaces, and the kind of relaxed glamour money can’t always buy. Get there:  To Seville from Madrid (2.5 hours) or Barcelona (6+ hours); to Málaga (closest to Marbella) from Madrid (under 3 hours) Rome, Italy Spotted: Sebastian Stan, Nina Dobrev, Harry Styles Whether tossing a coin in the Trevi Fountain or dining al fresco in Trastevere, the Eternal City is steeped in romance and star power. Don’t be surprised if you spot a celeb mid-scooter ride past the Colosseum. Get there:  From Florence (1h), Milan (3h), Naples (1h) Milan, Italy Spotted: Zendaya, Donatella Versace, Ben Affleck, Jessica Chastain Fashion capital, design hub, and Aperol-sipping heaven—Milan is more than just catwalks. It's a favourite for stars dropping in for Fashion Week or hiding out in lavish suites off Via Montenapoleone. Get there:  From Rome (1h), Florence (1.5h), Venice (4h), Paris (7h) Lake Como, Italy Spotted: Taylor Swift, Margaret Qualley, Leighton Meester and Adam Brody Lake Como’s cinematic beauty is the stuff of romance novels—and celebrity getaways. Expect luxury villas, quiet cobblestone towns, and the occasional George Clooney sighting. Get there:  From Milan (40 minutes) or Florence (under 3 hours) Amalfi Coast, Italy Spotted: Jennifer Lopez, Doja Cat, Joseph Quinn, The Kardashians Equal parts dramatic and dreamy, the Amalfi Coast is a no-filter-needed escape. Celebs dock their yachts in Positano, but rail travellers can still soak up the same magic without the megayacht. Get there:  From Salerno (under 1h) or Naples (just over 1h) to Vietri sul Mare-Amalfi https://www.thetrainline.com/

London’s most spirited seafood showdown returns this September as Bentley’s Oyster Bar & Grill revives its much-loved London Oyster Championships, an unmissable event set to take over Swallow Street on Friday 19th September 2025. Now in its second year under the Bentley’s name and celebrating 20 years of Chef Richard Corrigan’s leadership, the event promises a shell-cracking spectacle of speed, style, and sustainability. Backed by luxury English sparkling wine house Nyetimber and leading hospitality platform SevenRooms, the Championships continue to honour the great British oyster — and the people who know how to serve them best. Two Heats. One Ultimate Champion. Kicking off at 1pm, the Speed Shucking round will test the nerve and knife skills of the UK’s finest shuckers across four heats and a high-stakes final. The winner not only earns bragging rights, but also an all-expenses-paid trip to represent England at the World Championships in Galway, chasing the title of English Oyster Opening Champion — an honour Bentley’s own Federico Fiorillo claimed in 2023. Expect tight timing and expert judging, with an esteemed panel led by Christ Leftwich and David Jarrad of the Shellfish Association of Great Britain, joined by previous master shucker Nicki Holmyard. At 3pm, following live music and oyster-fuelled refreshment on the terrace, comes the Best Dressed contest. This round sees top chefs unleash their culinary creativity, designing oyster dressings that dazzle in both flavour and flair. Returning victor Tom Brown (Pearly Queen) will compete alongside talents from Noisy Oyster, Camille, Fallow, Applebees, and Prawn on the Lawn. The winning oyster will earn a coveted spot on the Bentley’s menu for one month. Judging this gourmet catwalk? An all-star panel featuring chef and restaurateur Anna Haugh, Saturday Kitchen host Matt Tebbutt, Bake Off icon Prue Leith, and wine critic Hannah Crosbie. A Celebration with Purpose With beloved chef and broadcaster Gizzi Erskine hosting the day, guests can expect an afternoon rich in charm, culinary drama, and insights into the world of oysters. More than just a competition, the event supports the Blue Marine Foundation, raising awareness around sustainable seafood practices and marine biodiversity. All oyster shells from the day will be collected and returned to Essex Estuaries to support vital oyster restoration efforts. How to Attend Tickets are £55 per person and include unlimited native rock oysters, two drinks, a sustainability-led goody bag, and access to the exclusive after party. Oyster lovers, seafood connoisseurs and curious foodies alike are urged to secure their spot now — places are limited and expected to sell out fast. 📍 11–15 Swallow Street, London W1B 4DG🔗 www.londonoysterchampionships.com 📸 @bentleysoysterbar | @chefcorrigan | @londonoysterchampionship

There’s no quiet time of year as a Luxury PA but if there was, August would certainly not be it. It’s a month that combines school holidays, with peak summer travel, and the mass exodus of many European residents from sweltering cities to cooler coastal and rural regions. We often think of the high and ultra-high net worth as being established businessmen and women, but more and more it’s the next generation - the founders, the 20 something’s who took a chance and built an empire, and those who have made social media their bread and butter. They see a gap in their schedule and want to fill it in the most luxurious way. And in 2025, the choice of what to do and where to go is vast. But it really is all about Europe this summer. Nothing is off limits and everything is highly tailored and personalised to each traveller’s needs and wants. As a Personal Private PA to the high-net-worth, my clients expect luxury combined with ease every step of the way, and below are a few examples of what they’re booking for August. While hotels certainly have their place in the world of luxury travel, this summer private villas have been top of the agenda for the world’s wealthy. Think Ibiza, Italy, Greece, and Portugal. Places with guaranteed sunshine, a mix of beach, city, and nature, and the option to arrive discreetly and be catered for in a truly personalised way. Despite the difference in client demographic, those who have been in touch about villa bookings have all requested the same thing – a self-contained space with everything they, and their family, need within the four walls. Minimum; a chef, driver, gym, pool, private outdoor living space, and strong WiFi. Luxury trains are also becoming increasingly popular as a way to experience slow, purposeful travel. A trend we’re seeing a lot of this year and one I don’t see going anywhere for a while. These trains lend themselves perfectly to those who are looking to celebrate a milestone in opulent surroundings and be home by bedtime, as well as others looking to experience uninterrupted timeless glamour for a few extra days. Hop on-board the British Pullman for a journey throughout the Kent countryside or, for those needing some extended R&R, there’s the option of travelling across Europe on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express with menus created by Michelin Star Chef Jean Imbert and Grand Suites so decadent you’ll never want to leave. When clients are hoping for a quick last-minute getaway, due to the ease in getting there, Paris is always one of my suggestions. And two icons that top the list are Le Meurice and Hôtel Plaza Athénée, both of which are part of the Dorchester Collection. French hospitality is second to none (not to mention the bread, the pastries, the butter, the wine, the cheese) and at both properties nothing is too much of an ask. Clients with a little extra time often decide to pair their trip with a few days in Antibes staying at Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc or The Maybourne Riviera overlooking Monaco. As the end of summer approaches there’s still time to pack your bags for some well- deserved relaxation abroad. But before you get your suitcase from the attic, keep in mind these suggestions to ensure you get the most out of your time and trip. Don’t waste time researching destinations, flights and hotels. Get a PA to do it for you. They’re in the know and have the contacts. Sit back and wait for them to come to you with an itinerary and flight options. They’ll even anticipate needs you didn’t know you had. Plan ahead as much as possible, but for the times when you can’t, book accommodation with a last-minute cancellation policy so you won’t be caught out if plans change from one day to the next. And always book direct. If you book through a third-party website and your trip cancels, it’s impossible to speak to someone to get it sorted. If you want to get away but everywhere is booked, go to France. A hotel, a villa, an Airbnb, it doesn’t matter. Much of the country’s population up and leave during the month of August meaning availability for travellers is often high. Be flexible, especially if you’re keen on experiencing Belmond’s trains. Unlike planes and regular trains, routes only run on certain days and months, so if your dates are rock solid and can’t be moved, you may need to look at an alternative option. Sarah is the Founder of LANE, an exclusive personal private PA consultancy offering a multitasking, perfectionist assistant on demand to the high and ultra-high net worth. www.lane.london  / @laneoflondon

As summer sunsets grow earlier and evenings stretch longer, Le Creuset has announced a new star to brighten the season: Nuit , the brand’s deepest, most dramatic blue to date. Inspired by the mystery and elegance of the night sky, Nuit is not just another shade of blue. This luxurious, velvety hue glides from near-black to a true, rich blue in a subtle ombré effect — a sophisticated colourway designed to anchor every autumnal ritual. Whether it’s the backdrop for a decadent dinner party, moody tablescapes, or the comforting vessel for your evening cup, Nuit invites warmth and connection as the days grow darker. Available across Le Creuset’s iconic enamelled Cast Iron collection and refined stoneware, Nuit promises to make a statement in any kitchen. The new line features the brand’s signature chrome knob, shimmering like a star against the deep blue finish. For those who love to play with colour, Nuit pairs beautifully with Shell Pink or Volcanic, offering a daring palette that adds vibrancy and life to the home. Marianna Spiliotopoulos, Head of Marketing at Le Creuset, shares: “We’re super excited to launch Nuit, our most dramatic blue yet. At Le Creuset, we are trendsetters in colourful cookware, and we love to lean into striking colours. With Nuit, we pay homage to the essence of the night, when the sky darkens and celebrations take place. Here, whether it be a party or a shared meal together, we want people to use Nuit to create new memories.” More than just a colour, Nuit embodies the mood of late summer and early autumn — dark, captivating, and inviting deeper conversation around the table. And with Le Creuset’s lifetime guarantee on all cookware, this unique shade can be cherished and enjoyed for years to come. Nuit is available now in all Le Creuset boutiques and online. https://www.lecreuset.co.uk/en_GB/c/shop-by-colour/nuit

What if your journey to the Indian Ocean didn’t begin with a long-haul flight and a dash to the resort, but instead unfolded as a curated, two-part experience — city sparkle first, then barefoot bliss? JA Resorts & Hotels has quietly launched one of this summer’s most seductive luxury travel pairings: book seven nights at their ultra-exclusive JA Manafaru in the Maldives or JA Enchanted Island Resort in the Seychelles, and they’ll gift you a complimentary two-night stay in Dubai. Yes, really. This is the luxury layover — reimagined. Part One: Your Dubai Prelude Before you’ve even dipped a toe into the Indian Ocean, Dubai greets you with a little glamour of its own. And with a choice of three very different stays, your mood can set the tone. Feel like easing in by the beach? JA Ocean View Hotel in Jumeirah Beach Residence gives you floor-to-ceiling views of the Gulf and direct access to one of Dubai’s buzziest waterfronts. Prefer a wellness reset or early tee time? JA Lake View Hotel, nestled within a 128-acre resort, offers golf, horseback riding, and a serene start to your journey . Or, if you’re the kind of traveller who likes a slower pace and a morning hike in the mountains, JA Hatta Fort Hotel delivers seclusion and wild beauty — just 90 minutes from the city. You’ll get breakfast included, and two nights to press pause before your next chapter begins. Part Two: Island Time, Redefined Then comes the main event. In the Maldives, JA Manafaru offers that castaway fantasy with a cultured edge — think water villas, manta ray sightings, and all-inclusive gourmet dining in the northernmost atoll of the archipelago. It’s private, untouched, and utterly postcard-worthy. Meanwhile, over in the Seychelles, JA Enchanted Island Resort offers something even rarer: the chance to fully take over an entire private island (11 villas, two lodge rooms) if you wish. There’s kitesurfing, yes — but also helicopter tours, catamaran dinners, and total privacy in one of the world’s most protected marine reserves. Why Now? 2025 is already being dubbed the year of the long getaway , with more luxury travellers opting to extend their stays and experience multiple destinations in one trip. But it’s rare to find a package that blends city, sea, and service with this much fluidity — and with complimentary nights in a destination like Dubai, it feels like the kind of elevated travel decision you’d only hear whispered about by someone in-the-know. Now you’re in the know. JA Manafaru  from £700 per night JA Enchanted Island Resort  from £750 per night Two-night Dubai stay complimentary with seven-night booking. Explore more: www.jaresortshotels.com

British jeweller Monica Vinader has launched its latest collection, meet Nomade -- an ultra-bold new line that draws inspiration from the natural world and the free spirit of exploration. Sculptural and tactile, the pieces are designed to be worn every day, with a focus on timeless design and considered craftsmanship, as in keeping with this British brand.  Founded in 2008 from a converted forge in Norfolk, the brand was built on Monica Vinader’s belief that fine jewellery shouldn’t be kept for special occasions. Her pieces perfectly balance the classic and the contemporary, refinement and relaxation; after all, these pieces have been designed and made to be lived in, and loved. Over the past 15 years, the brand has grown into a global name, recognised for its modern aesthetic and strong ethical principles, and as such, all the collections are now made using 100% recycled precious metals, with full traceability from source to finished piece. Nomade continues this direction, with pieces that are crafted from recycled 18ct gold vermeil, reflecting the brand’s ongoing commitment to sustainable production. Drawing influence from dramatic wind-sculpted dunes, rock formations and clay ridges, the collection showcases natural forms.  Expect smooth metal finishes that are set against the softness of pearls that creates an interesting contrast, with a line that is made up of sculptural hoops, huggies, and drop earrings, along with fluid pendant necklaces, layering chains, and pearl-accented styles. You'll also find statement cuffs, curved bangles, and soft-link bracelets, plus chunky rings and stackable bands with organic, asymmetrical shapes. Every piece is designed to feel relaxed and wearable, with flowing lines and a polished finish that's a signature of Monica Vinader.