Search Results

Italian design studio InMind Design  has lifted the curtain on Interstellar  — a dramatic new 49.9-metre superyacht concept that fuses futuristic aesthetics with explorer yacht functionality. With sharp black-and-white lines and a streamlined aft deck, Interstellar  is a bold statement in motion — inspired by sports yachts, but built with long-range adventure in mind. “The owner I imagine for Interstellar  is someone with an artistic eye — someone who sees design as a cultural expression,” explains studio founder Lorenzo Squadrito. “They’re not looking to blend in. They want a yacht that represents creativity, identity and vision.” At the heart of that vision is Interstellar ’s sweeping aft deck — a multi-tiered experience space featuring a relaxed outdoor dining area, sleek sunlounging zones, and a show-stopping infinity pool. Below, a generous beach club unfolds to reveal 270-degree views via folding bulwarks, paired with a hidden tender lift and smart storage solutions for life at sea. One of the standout features is the main-deck VIP suite — a futuristic, light-filled retreat framed by curved, floor-to-ceiling windows. With mirrors on both port and starboard sides, the space feels expansive and architectural, with a layout that places uninterrupted views centre stage. Elsewhere, guests will find formal alfresco dining for 14 on the upper deck, a plant-dressed sundeck lounge, and a full gym designed for serious workouts — complete with treadmills and free weights. Even the tender has been carefully considered, custom-designed in harmony with the mothership’s sculptural lines. “With Interstellar , we set out to create something iconic yet timeless — a silhouette that feels just as relevant in the past as it might in the future,” says Squadrito. “It’s bold, fluid and truly evergreen.” Key specs include a beam of 9.5 metres and a 2.3-metre draft, with propulsion delivered by twin CAT engines. Full performance details are yet to be disclosed, but the concept’s form hints at impressive range and versatility. For visionaries seeking a yacht that’s as expressive as it is engineered — Interstellar  might just be the next frontier. https://www.studioinmind.com/

From heritage mansions to skyline-skimming penthouses, these London homes are redefining luxury living – one swim at a time . Lidos may be having a renaissance, but in true luxury circles, there’s no greater indulgence than stepping into your own private pool. No battling for sunbeds. No awkward lane etiquette. Just serene, uninterrupted dips in surroundings that rival five-star spas. Whether tucked away in leafy Hampstead or soaring above Southbank, these exquisite London properties come with exclusive swimming pools and world-class wellness offerings – proving that luxury, quite literally, runs deep. Knightsbridge Street, Knightsbridge, SW7 A Georgian townhouse with a 21st-century heartbeat. Behind its classic façade lies a home reimagined for lavish modern living, complete with a private cinema, spa, gym, and a show-stopping swimming pool that transforms into a dance floor. With five bedrooms, five bathrooms, two balconies, and a garden, it’s a masterclass in marrying heritage with hedonism. Guide price: £13,950,000 | sothebysrealty.co.uk Walton House Residences, Pont Street, SW1X A Knightsbridge trophy address if ever there was one. Comprising four palatial apartments, including a 6,700+ sq ft Grand Apartment, this residence is the epitome of multigenerational grandeur. Expect regal entertaining rooms, a 13-metre indoor pool, private leisure zones, and architectural brilliance by MDesign London. Guide price: £54,000,000 | knightfrank.co.uk | savills.com Hampstead Manor, Kidderpore Avenue, NW3 Discreet luxury meets serene community living in this four-floor residence nestled within Hampstead Manor. Residents enjoy use of a sleek spa, gym, pool, concierge, and lush gardens. Inside, the home offers generous proportions, en suite bedrooms, a private terrace, and chic open-plan living. Guide price: £3,500,000 | johndwood.co.uk Seven, Southbank Place, SE1 A riverside masterpiece with uninterrupted views of London’s most iconic landmarks. Residents here enjoy access to a 17,000 sq ft private health club with a 25m pool, steam rooms, spa suites, gym, beauty studio and more — all by wellness specialists Educated Body. The apartment itself features expansive interiors, floor-to-ceiling glass and luxurious tonal finishes. Guide price: £3.85 million | southbank-place.com Garway Road, Notting Hill, W2 A detached period dream house that ticks every lifestyle box — from private pool to home cinema. Located moments from Westbourne Grove, this six-bedroom, 9,500+ sq ft residence offers grand interiors, artistic touches, leafy gardens and EV-ready off-street parking. Guide price: £17,950,000 | struttandparker.com 6 Tregunter Road, Chelsea, SW10 In the heart of the Boltons Conservation Area lies this meticulously restored seven-bedroom home. Boasting a 10-metre indoor pool, cinema, gym and a show garden by Chelsea Flower Show gold medallist Luciano Giubbilei, it’s a haven of style and tranquillity behind one of Chelsea’s most desirable addresses. Guide price: £30,000,000 | struttandparker.com Sky Villas, Battersea Power Station, SW11 Set between the iconic chimneys of Battersea Power Station, the Sky Villas redefine vertical living. With 360° skyline views, private rooftop terraces and access to “The Spring” – a private leisure club with a lap pool, sauna, wellness suites and more – these homes are futuristic luxury at its finest. Prices from £6,950,000 | batterseapowerstation.co.uk

The Victoria and Albert Museum Package at The Clermont, Charing Cross. What’s not to love? Not only can you experience the rich culture of London, no less in the hub of the West End, but enjoy a complimentary ticket to a paid exhibition at the Victoria and Albert Museum, allowing you to explore world-class art, design, and history. Of course, I chose a coveted ticket to the Cartier exhibition; a treasure trove of timeless beauty, curated by Helen Molesworth and Rachel Garrahan. Much of the exhibition explores the relationship between the British royal family and the Parisian jeweller, and includes spectacular pieces lent by King Charles and other private collectors. Be bedazzled by more than 350 objects, from jewels to gemstones, watches to clocks and precious unseen drawings. And the ultimate finale – a darkened room dedicated to tiaras dating from the 1900s to the present day. After a morning of admiration at the V&A and a spot of mooching around South Kensington, my tired feet couldn’t wait to enjoy the comfort of my room at The Clermont Charing Cross. Even though the grand building has balconies overlooking the main station concourse, you can’t hear the rhythmic rumblings of trains arriving at their destination, let alone a whistle or hoot. This historic building, which opened in 1865 is built to last. The rooms are modern with crisp white linens and mod cons, yet the stunning Victorian architecture is seen throughout the building, think tall ceilings and period features. The impressive grand staircase that runs through the centre of the hotel is an influencer’s dream - there’s even an iconic London red phone box at the bottom. Furthermore, each step appears wider than a modern staircase because each step is evenly spaced so that guests of the 1860s wouldn’t have to watch their footing as they descended. Arriving at the bottom step with one’s head held high was considered the only proper way to make one’s entrance. Genius! The V&A package includes breakfast the next morning; a mix of self-service and à la carte options. Service was immaculate, coffee was fresh and poached eggs, served to perfection. If you’re looking to be within walking distance to Trafalgar Square, able to saunter to the latest West End production, or able let your hair down in Soho without having to catch a train home, this is it. The location is oh-so central. Do remember, all good things must come to an end – as does this package. So do book in before 30th of June 2025. https://www.theclermont.co.uk/charing-cross/special-offers/victoria-and-albert-museum-package

In the rarefied world of fine jewellery, a quiet revolution is taking hold, and at its centre stands Astrea London, the rising lab-grown diamond house capturing global attention. Founded in 2023, the brand is now solely led by Nathalie Morrison, an award-winning entrepreneur celebrated for her ability to blend innovation with luxury. With a background spanning both the fine jewellery and business worlds, Morrison brings a sharp commercial vision and deep commitment to ethical evolution in the industry. With boutiques in prestigious locations such as the Fairmont Windsor Park and Villa La Coste in Provence, Astrea is far more than a jewellery label—it’s a philosophy. One rooted in intelligent luxury, where provenance matters just as much as polish. “We’re not just disrupting the diamond industry,” says Morrison. “We’re evolving it. This is more than a trend—it’s a revolution. And it can’t be stopped.” Once dismissed as ‘synthetic’, lab-grown diamonds have rapidly emerged as the future of fine jewellery. With the market expanding from $1 billion in 2016 to over $23 billion by 2023, consumers are increasingly seeking beauty that aligns with their values—transparency, traceability, and sustainability. “The illusion was never the diamond,” Morrison adds. “It was the belief that mined luxury would remain unquestioned.” A Personal Milestone, A Brand Reborn Now the sole shareholder of Astrea London, Morrison sees this new chapter as a turning point. “I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved. Taking full ownership has brought clarity and focus as we scale Astrea globally, without ever compromising on craftsmanship or conscience.” The Intelligent Diamond At the heart of Astrea’s vision lies what Morrison calls The Intelligent Diamond —jewellery created through the intersection of science, ethics, and design. Every Astrea creation is crafted using only IGI- or GIA-certified lab-grown diamonds graded D, E or F—the highest colour grades—combined with technically precise settings and modern silhouettes. From sculptural solitaires to architectural earrings and the house’s standout L’Amour and Eternal collections, the designs are as compelling as the values behind them. In a time where conscious consumerism is no longer niche but necessary, Astrea London is poised to lead the charge. With Morrison at the helm, the brand represents a new ideal: luxury not just as opulence, but as integrity. Beauty not just as brilliance, but as intelligence. Visit astrealondon.com

I’ve always been a sucker for old houses with creaky floorboards, thick stone walls and fireplaces that tell stories. But pair that history with copper roll-top baths, an outdoor pool and a glasshouse restaurant, and I’m officially obsessed. So when I heard whispers of the Nirvana Collection’s latest opening, West Court Retreat in Berkshire, I packed my weekender bag with indecent speed. Nestled within 20 acres of landscaped countryside, this Grade II-listed 17th-century manor house is what you get when a classic English estate receives a thoroughly modern, thoroughly luxurious upgrade. From the moment I pulled into the gravel drive, I felt like I was stepping onto the set of a period drama. The difference here is that the rooms come with Dyson hairdryers, the staff deliver digestifs to your velvet armchair, and there is a complimentary Bentley transfer ready to take you to Nirvana Spa, their sister property just ten minutes away. Suites with Stories The hotel has just 49 rooms, thoughtfully divided between the original Manor House and the newer Officers’ Wing. I stayed in The Carlyle Suite, where original exposed beams and a freestanding copper tub struck a beautiful balance between heritage and indulgence. The suite had its own private living room overlooking the manicured lawn, and the space felt intimate and full of character, with a strong sense of identity. The bathroom was the undisputed star of the show. Victorian-style porcelain tiles, a gleaming copper tub, a sparkling rainfall shower and a new vanity unit came together to create a luxurious space that felt both restorative and indulgent. It was the kind of sanctuary that made it very tempting to stay in, robe on, for the entire evening. That said, the living room didn’t quite deliver the same wow factor as the bathroom. The vintage furniture had character, but paired with the older carpet and more neutral tones, the space felt a little flat. A few warmer design touches - perhaps a richer rug, ambient lighting or updated textures, could really elevate the space and bring it in line with the rest of the suite’s thoughtful style. Dining Worth the Detour Dinner that evening was at The Dining Room, the hotel’s main restaurant, where locally sourced ingredients are given a beautifully seasonal twist. I started with a garlic spinach soup, followed by melt-in-your-mouth butternut squash gnocchi, and finished with strawberry sorbet. But for meat-eaters, there are lots of options too! Later, I wandered into The Devil’s Highway Bar. Named after the Roman road that runs beneath the property, it is an intimate, dimly lit spot with plush interiors and a menu of classic cocktails. Although I would have loved a few more cocktail options on the list. It is a beautifully designed space that could really sing with a slightly larger menu of signature drinks. Quiet Luxury and Stillness The next morning, coffee in hand, I found myself on the garden patio watching the mist lift across the lawns. There is something magical about the silence here. It wraps around you like a cashmere throw and invites you to slow down. I could have gone to the gym or booked a treatment, but instead I opted for a dip in the newly built outdoor pool followed by a long lounge in the sunshine. No regrets. The spa experience, though, is not to be missed. Guests staying at West Court Retreat can enjoy complimentary Bentley transfers to Nirvana Spa, the UK’s leading pure water retreat. From fire and ice therapies to restorative floatation experiences, the spa is designed to recalibrate every part of you. Countryside Calm West Court Retreat is perfectly placed for weekenders. It is within easy reach of Ascot, Windsor, London and Reading, but still feels blissfully remote. I took a long walk through the surrounding countryside after breakfast and passed just one fellow guest, a woman strolling with her dachshund. Yes, pets are welcome here too! The hotel is stylish, but never showy. Calm, but never dull. The staff are warm, the interiors are thoughtful, and the details really do matter. https://nirvanacollection.co.uk/west-court-retreat/

For the first time since the MICHELIN Guide arrived in the region, two Dubai restaurants have earned the coveted Three MICHELIN Stars, setting a new global standard in fine dining. In a defining moment for Dubai’s gastronomic ascent, Trèsind Studio and FZN by Björn Frantzén have made history as the first restaurants in the UAE to be awarded Three MICHELIN Stars. The announcement, made during the glittering fourth edition of the MICHELIN Guide Dubai Ceremony at Address Sky View, marks a breakthrough both for the city and for global fine dining. Trèsind Studio: A World-First for Indian Cuisine Trèsind Studio’s elevation is more than just a local triumph—it’s a global milestone. In earning Three MICHELIN Stars, it becomes the first Indian restaurant in the world to receive the Guide’s highest honour. This recognition positions Indian cuisine firmly at the top of the fine dining echelon and affirms Chef Himanshu Saini as one of the most imaginative culinary voices of our time. An immersive and intimate experience, Trèsind Studio redefines Indian fine dining with a multi-sensory tasting menu that draws from the country’s many regions. But this is no traditional homage—the dishes are reimagined with precision, artistry, and emotion, often looking like abstract art, and always delivering layered, powerful flavours. Whether it's the reinterpretation of chaat with micro-herbs or the dramatic theatrics of smoke and spice, each course surprises while honouring deep-rooted culinary heritage. Chef Saini’s promotion to Three Stars after four appearances in the Guide reflects not just consistency, but a relentless pursuit of excellence. His work is bold, expressive and unmistakably personal, combining childhood nostalgia with modern technique and storytelling. FZN by Björn Frantzén: Nordic Precision Meets Asian Elegance Also newly anointed with Three MICHELIN Stars is FZN, the Dubai outpost of Björn Frantzén, the renowned Swedish chef whose Stockholm flagship already holds the same accolade. Open for just one year, FZN’s debut into the MICHELIN Guide at the top tier is a feat few restaurants worldwide have ever achieved. Located in the heart of Dubai, FZN blends the meticulous minimalism of Scandinavian cooking with vibrant Asian influences and exceptional ingredients—from pristine seafood to umami-rich broths. Dishes feel architectural in form and explosive in flavour, each element plated with scientific accuracy and emotional intelligence. FZN’s menu celebrates seasonality, purity, and theatre, delivered by a team with flawless choreography. From the lacquered duck with yuzu kosho to a deceptively simple cloudberry tart, the experience is one of depth, harmony, and rare technical mastery. Björn Frantzén’s arrival in the Middle East has proved transformative. With FZN, he has not only transplanted his philosophy but reinterpreted it through the lens of Dubai’s cosmopolitan flair. A Turning Point for Dubai These Two Three-Star announcements signal a new era for the region. As Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guide, put it: “Dubai embraces a rich tapestry of flavours that reflect the world’s gastronomic passions. Trèsind Studio’s historic achievement and FZN’s debut prove that the city is not just catching up—it is setting the pace.” As Dubai now boasts 2 Three-Star, 3 Two-Star, and 14 One-Star restaurants in the MICHELIN Guide 2025, it cements itself as a serious contender on the global culinary stage, offering food lovers an ext raordinary range of experiences—rooted in heritage, fuelled by ambition, and executed at world-class levels.

For those who live well, travel is not a luxury. It is a rhythm of life. But even the most seasoned travellers can find the process increasingly transactional, reduced to dropdown menus, influencer lists and crowded concierge inboxes. This is exactly the kind of fatigue Nota Bene Global was built to solve. Founded by travel and real estate advisor Anthony Lassman, Nota Bene is a private, membership-based service for those who prefer to move through the world quietly and exceptionally. It does not operate like a concierge or travel agency. Instead, it offers something rarer: strategic, culturally-informed curation that comes from experience, not algorithms. And in a world that claims everything is bespoke, Nota Bene actually is. From Normandy to Rome: What Travel Looks Like with Nota Bene Two recent concepts shared by the team offer a glimpse into what membership unlocks. The Patriot’s Journey, for example, is an 11-day itinerary through Paris, Normandy and Versailles, designed not just to visit but to understand. From private viewings at Les Invalides and sunset dinners at the Eiffel Tower, to flying in a DC3 over Omaha Beach with military commentary, it is a lesson in history, beauty and emotional immersion. Elevated, seamless, and never performative. Meanwhile, the Rome Concept leans into intimacy and access. There are hidden frescoes in private palazzi. After-hours storytelling among the works of Caravaggio and Bernini. A slow lunch near the Borghese Gardens, followed by shopping on Via del Babuino. Less about what you see, more about how you see it. Across both, the attention to detail is striking. There is no checklist. No template. Just a team that travels relentlessly, knows who to call, and curates with purpose. Image of Anthony Lassman Beyond the Trip: Real Estate with Integrity Nota Bene does not stop at travel. Its real estate division provides strategic advice and access to super-prime property in some of the world’s most desirable locations. London, Paris, the French Riviera, New York, the Hamptons and St Barths are all within scope. This is not a brokerage service. Nota Bene represents buyers only, offering confidential guidance based on long-standing relationships and deep local knowledge. Properties are often sourced privately, before they reach the market. In that sense, the real estate offering reflects the same values as the travel service: integrity, clarity, and focus. The Final Piece: Luggage, Curated The last addition to the Nota Bene offering is luggage. Overseen by Elaine Lassman, this arm of the brand sources rare and beautiful travel pieces, offers packing guidance for different itineraries, and manages storage and delivery for clients who move often and expect their belongings to keep pace. It is a thoughtful touch. One that recognises luxury is often defined not by big gestures, but by small, well-executed details. Why It Works There is no shortage of options in the luxury travel world. What makes Nota Bene Global different is the way it simplifies choice. Clients are not given a menu of five-star hotels. They are offered the right suite, in the right location, at the right time. It might be a jazz season in Provence. A quiet anniversary in Kyoto. A summer villa in Mustique found before it was ever listed. This is not travel planning. It is private advisory, shaped by knowledge and trust. To enquire about Nota Bene Global membership or its private real estate guidance, visit notabeneglobal.com  and notabenerealestate.com .

In London’s golden postcode of SW1, where embassies line leafy boulevards and some of the world’s most powerful people call home, rarely does a property with both stature and soul come to market. But tucked away on Chapel Street, just moments from the hallowed grounds of Belgrave Square, a rare six-floor freehold townhouse is being offered by United Kingdom Sotheby’s International Realty—and it is the very definition of discreet luxury. Priced at £9,500,000 , this end-of-terrace home is a masterclass in elegant proportion, practical family living, and classical grandeur. A sanctuary in one of the capital’s most exclusive enclaves, the property combines quintessential Belgravia architecture with the comforts of modern luxury living, from air conditioning and centralised heating to a home sauna and private garden terrace. A Family Home with Grandeur What sets this townhouse apart is its rare ability to blend scale with serenity. Spanning over six floors, the house offers six generous bedrooms, including a spectacular principal suite that takes up the entire second floor. With its own Jacuzzi bathroom, lounge space, and vast windows, the suite offers a private escape akin to the penthouse of a five-star hotel. On the third floor, you’ll find another bedroom suite with a dedicated walk-in wardrobe—ideal for a fashion-forward teenager or as a private guest wing. Two further bedroom suites occupy the fourth floor, each flooded with light and finished in a timeless, neutral palette. But this isn’t just a house to sleep in—it’s a house made for living. Three beautifully appointed reception rooms span the first three floors, some with private balconies overlooking quiet mews and manicured gardens, offering the perfect setting for everything from champagne soirées to intimate family gatherings. Living Across Six Floors The ground floor kitchen is both functional and welcoming. Large enough to accommodate a full dining suite, it opens out onto a rear balcony perfect for al fresco breakfasts. Meanwhile, the lower ground floor reveals a hidden gem: not only is there a second kitchen—ideal for staff or seamless entertaining—but also a sauna, utility space, cloakroom, and an ensuite bedroom with private patio access. Whether used for live-in help, extended family, or guests who value privacy, this level is entirely self-contained. At the very top of the house, a peaceful study opens directly onto the terrace, offering a rare moment of quiet and inspiration in the heart of the city. It’s easy to imagine this room being used to pen a novel, take Zoom calls in peace, or simply sip espresso as the morning light floods the space. Belgravia: London's Most Prestigious Village Located just a short walk from the boutiques of Motcomb Street, Hyde Park’s green expanses, and the elite private members’ clubs of Mayfair, Chapel Street enjoys the rare duality of discretion and proximity. Belgravia’s garden squares, historic architecture, and diplomatic air make it one of the few places in the world where privacy and prestige go hand in hand. This property’s freehold status only adds to its desirability—a prized rarity in central London, where most homes are leasehold and subject to restrictive terms. For families seeking a long-term London base or international buyers desiring a turnkey pied-à-terre with soul, this is a purchase that balances emotional appeal with intelligent investment. In a market increasingly crowded with flashy new builds and glass-box penthouses, this six-floor townhouse is a reminder of what timeless London luxury truly looks like. It’s not just about square footage or postcode—it’s about how a home feels. And this one feels like your own private Belgravia estate. To arrange a private viewing or to find out more, visit 👉 Chapel Street Listing – United Kingdom Sotheby’s International Realty

As images of the Pope’s glittering £500,000 ring circulate online, reactions have ranged from awe to outrage. Dubbed the “Fisherman’s Ring,” this ornate gold band is not only a striking symbol of papal authority but also a masterclass in craftsmanship. Now, a New York-based jeweller is offering rare insight into what makes this controversial piece so uniquely valuable — and so symbolically profound. Phil Grosso, lead designer at Amore Fine Jewelry , describes the Fisherman’s Ring as “a living piece of history that transcends its material worth.” Far more than an extravagant accessory, the ring carries centuries of tradition — and is handcrafted with techniques worthy of museum-quality heirlooms. “The Fisherman's Ring is as much a religious emblem of papal authority as it is a masterpiece of jewellery design,” Grosso explains. “Traditionally cast in 18k or even 24k gold, the ring bears a hand-engraved depiction of Saint Peter casting his net — a reference to the Pope’s role as successor to Saint Peter, the ‘fisher of men.’” What elevates the ring beyond the realm of ordinary fine jewellery is its artisanal construction. Using the ancient lost-wax casting method and finished with painstaking hand-engraving, each ring is completely unique. The lettering and papal seal, which historically served to authenticate official documents, require a level of precision that only master engravers can achieve. While earlier iterations of the ring were modest and more functional in design, modern versions — such as the current Pope Leo XIV’s — are far more elaborate. Featuring high-purity gold, intricate filigree, enamel detailing, and even inset gemstones, today’s papal rings reflect both artistic evolution and deep spiritual symbolism. “These features, combined with the invaluable spiritual and historical significance, readily tip the monetary worth into the hundreds of thousands,” Grosso adds. Perhaps the most fascinating detail? The ring is destroyed upon the death of a pope, a tradition intended to prevent forgery and mark the end of a papal era. “That imbues each design with a rare, almost transient nature — something virtually unprecedented in the world of fine jewellery,” Grosso notes. As debates rage over wealth and religious symbolism, one thing is clear: the Fisherman’s Ring is far more than an opulent accessory. It's a testament to faith, craftsmanship, and the enduring power of tradition — a piece that quite literally carries the weight of history on its finger.

It’s 2pm on a Tuesday, and I’m lying on a warm marble slab beneath the domed ceiling of a hammam, while a middle-aged Turkish woman pours generous bucketfuls of foamy water over my legs and chest. Part ritual, part performance, the experience is both otherworldly and oddly grounding. With expert precision, she scrubs, massages and exfoliates, removing layers of Istanbul that have clung to my skin like memory. She gestures toward the residue being washed away - perhaps remnants of Karaköy’s famous fish wraps - and mutters, “Look. Dirty,” with a mix of amusement and pride. Whether she's astonished that a 30-year-old woman has never exfoliated behind her ears, or simply pleased with her work, I’ll never know. But my skin feels new – baby-soft – and I leave the room smelling like a Diptyque boutique in full bloom. This deeply traditional ritual takes place in the basement spa of the Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus, a restored 19th-century Ottoman palace perched on the edge of the iconic strait. Once a retreat for the Sultan’s inner circle, the property was reimagined by the Four Seasons in 2008, joining its sister site in Sultanahmet (a former prison turned five-star hotel) as one of the city’s most prestigious addresses. It features hammam experiences for females, males, and couples, along with nine treatment rooms, a steam room, sauna, hot tub, and both an indoor pool with an underwater sound system and an outdoor heated pool that opens seasonally in May. There’s also a gym offering one-to-one personal training sessions as well as group classes for those inclined. Treatments include infrared therapy and oxygenation facials. I opt for the real McCoy: a 45-minute Traditional Turkish Hammam (£166), a historic Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman cleansing practice that purifies and massages the body, now enhanced by all-natural Sodashi and Biologique Recherche products. The treatment room reflects this rich history, with a marble göbektaşı (heating platform) at its centre, blue mosaics, ornate tas (water bowls), and an Ottoman-style lantern that transports you back to the days of old Constantinople. Nazar amulets (evil eyes) are also dotted around the room to ward off bad spirits. To round off my experience, the Hammam gently washes my hair, which feels surprisingly more intimate than the body scrub, and I'm wrapped in a peshtemal (a traditional wrap in place of a robe). A smoothie shot follows, and I'm sent on my way to enjoy post-treatment treats, including dried apricots and free access to a Dyson hairdryer. Smug in my newly refreshed skin, I head to my fourth-floor suite—one of 25 at the 170-room property. The balcony overlooks the Bosphorus Bridge, the New Mosque, and the shores of Asia. The room oozes old-school charm and quiet luxury, with a wooden writing desk, tan récamier, king-sized bed, and freestanding bath. Thoughtful touches like slippers placed next to the bed at night, along with a handwritten note forecasting the next day’s weather, truly set this place apart. It’s easy to see why José Mourinho and Sarah Jessica Parker chose to stay here. That evening, I dined at Ocakbaşı, a pop-up restaurant on the terrace specialising in charcoal-cooked kebabs and mezze. I begin with complimentary bread, cheese, and pickles—every vegetarian's dream—before ordering a selection of starters, including spicy dried chilli, condensed yoghurt, garlic dip, and stuffed mushrooms with kashar cheese. For the main, I try the vegetarian Manti (Turkish dumplings), paired with a mocktail inspired by famous works of art like The Mona Lisa  and Klimt’s The Kiss . On-site, there are two other restaurants: Yali, a Mediterranean eatery serving Turkish pide (oval-shaped flatbread topped with meat and cheese), and Aqua, perfect for seafood lovers with dishes like grilled rock sea bass and 30-day aged beef chops. The breakfast spread is exceptional, with an extensive olive bar and bakery featuring cards that detail the Turkish regions the food hails from. The showstopper, though, is the giant red lobster with the face of Salvador Dalí, hanging over the fruit station. Nearby, you'll find the tulip-filled Yıldız Park, one of Istanbul’s largest public parks, as well as the National Palaces Painting Museum, which showcases paintings of Ottoman palaces from the 19th and early 20th centuries. Or, for something a little livelier, head west to Istiklal Street in Kadikoy for live music and a guaranteed hangover. But fear not—I've got a hammam for that.

An elegant three-bedroom apartment priced at €5.490.000 million has just come onto the market in one of Madrid’s most exclusive areas. Listed with Spain Sotheby’s International Realty, this remarkable home offers sophisticated living just steps from the famed Retiro Park. Located in the heart of the prestigious Recoletos neighbourhood, the apartment showcases a timeless design by Ana Escribano in collaboration with Madrid’s FH2L Studio. Impeccable craftsmanship and high-end finishes define the interiors, complemented by iconic design pieces including a Noguchi coffee table by Isamu Noguchi for Vitra, a Pacha lounge chair by Pierre Paulin for Gubi, and a sculpture by Rafael Amorós from Orellana Arte. The kitchen is a showpiece in itself, fitted with top-of-the-line Gaggenau appliances and a built-in wine cellar — a dream for culinary enthusiasts and entertainers alike. Each of the three principal bedrooms benefits from a luxurious en-suite bathroom, while a separate service bedroom with its own bathroom adds functionality and privacy. Sunlight floods the expansive living room through three large street-facing windows, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere enhanced by rich wooden flooring. Bathrooms, meanwhile, are finished in premium natural stone for a spa-like touch. Modern convenience is assured with an advanced underfloor heating and cooling system, offering personalised climate control across each room. Combining prestigious city living with refined comfort, this exceptional apartment offers an unparalleled opportunity in Madrid’s golden mile. For further details, visit Spain Sotheby’s International Realty .

The 2025 Met Gala, themed "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style" , was a celebration of dandyism and Black excellence, delivering one of the most memorable red carpets in years. But as fashion lovers fawned over the custom looks and bold silhouettes, a different conversation began swirling online— where were the usual Met Gala icons? From fashion disruptors to Met Gala royalty, several stars who regularly dominate the steps of the Met were nowhere to be seen this year. Here are the most notable absences and what we know about why they didn't attend. Wisdom Kaye (formerly known as Lil Nas X) One of the internet's biggest style stars—formerly Lil Nas X and now going by Wisdom Kaye—was noticeably absent. He addressed his no-show on Twitter, writing: “I was not invited to the Met. I know you guys want to see me there, so just letting you all know.” The tweet quickly went viral, with fans expressing disappointment, especially given how aligned his bold fashion aesthetic is with this year’s theme. Timothée Chalamet Despite dating Kylie Jenner—who did attend—Timothée skipped the gala altogether. Instead, he was spotted enjoying the New York Knicks playoff game and even shared moments from the court-side action on his Instagram stories. A surprising choice, considering his fashion-forward reputation. Justin Bieber Justin Bieber also chose a sports night over a style night, staying home to watch the Toronto Maple Leafs' playoff win while wife Hailey Bieber walked the Met steps solo in a sleek blazer dress. He celebrated the win with fans on Instagram, fully immersed in hockey season. Blake Lively & Ryan Reynolds Met Gala veterans and couple goals, Blake and Ryan were both missing in action this year. Their absence raised eyebrows, especially as Blake’s custom gowns have consistently become the event’s most talked-about moments. According to reports, the pair opted out quietly amid a wave of privacy around a legal matter involving Lively’s It Ends With Us  co-star. Lady Gaga Gaga’s over-the-top Met Gala moments are part of the event’s legend, but the superstar was absent due to scheduling conflicts with her "Mayhem Ball Tour." She was performing in Rio the night of the Gala and has upcoming tour dates across Asia. Kris Jenner & Corey Gamble While daughters Kim and Kylie walked the carpet, matriarch Kris Jenner and Corey Gamble were notably absent this year without explanation. The Kardashians’ Met Gala appearances have long been a family affair, with Kris always arriving early to watch her girls walk the carpet, making Kris’s no-show especially surprising. Ariana Grande The pop icon and Wicked  star sat this year out, despite fan anticipation. With her busy filming and music schedule, it’s speculated Ariana skipped the event to avoid overexposure ahead of major promo work later this year. Sarah Jessica Parker A Met Gala muse known for embracing the theme to the fullest, Sarah Jessica Parker’s absence was deeply felt. The Sex and the City  star has attended nearly every year, making this one of the more unexpected dropouts. Emily Ratajkowski & Kaia Gerber Two of the Met’s go-to it-girls, Emily and Kaia were both missing from the carpet. No public reasons have been shared, but it hasn’t stopped fans from wondering what looks they might’ve pulled off under this year’s theme. Jennifer Lopez Jennifer Lopez, a frequent Met Gala attendee, skipped this year's event. She is currently filming the romantic comedy "Office Romance" and shared a workout photo on Instagram on the day of the gala, suggesting she was in Los Angeles. LeBron James Despite being named an honorary co-chair for the 2025 Met Gala, LeBron James did not attend due to a knee injury sustained during the NBA playoffs. He announced his absence on social media, expressing regret for missing the event. Naomi Campbell Supermodel Naomi Campbell was notably absent. She shared on Instagram that she was honoured to be invited but could not attend, citing personal reasons. She expressed support for the event's theme and paid tribute to her late friend, André Leon Talley. Billie Eilish Billie Eilish missed the gala due to her ongoing "Hit Me Hard and Soft" world tour. On the night of the Met Gala, she performed in Amsterdam, which conflicted with the event's schedule. SZA Singer SZA was absent as she was on her Grand National Tour with Kendrick Lamar, performing in Philadelphia on the night of the gala As much as the Met Gala is about what people wore, it’s also about who didn’t  show up. Whether due to scheduling conflicts, lack of invitation, or personal preference, the 2025 event left room for speculation and conversation. One thing is clear—absence only fuels anticipation for next year’s return.