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May always feels like London loosening up a little. The evenings stretch longer, plans become more spontaneous, and suddenly the city feels hungry again, not just for dinner, but for somewhere new to talk about. It is also when the restaurant scene begins to hit its early-summer stride, with terraces, lighter menus and openings that feel designed for that first glass of something cold after work. This week’s arrivals are a particularly strong mix: big-name chefs, reimagined neighbourhood institutions, fire-led counter dining and one of Chelsea’s most loved seafood names expanding into something bigger. From Exmouth Market to East Dulwich, Shoreditch and Pavilion Road, these are the London restaurants worth having on your radar now. Vesper, Exmouth Market Jackson Boxer follows the success of Dove with Vesper, a new Exmouth Market restaurant that feels perfectly timed for longer evenings in the city. Taking over a double-fronted corner site, the restaurant is named after the evening star and brings together a bar, candlelit dining room and terrace, the kind of London room that feels made for late dinners and one-more-drink decisions. The menu has Boxer’s signature mix of elegance, instinct and appetite: oyster with green apple and Chartreuse, croquette Arnold Bennett, raw beef and smoked pepper tostada, chicken liver agnolotti, grilled prawns with green garlic, roast chicken with bread sauce and salted lemon, and chocolate porter cake. Designer Jermaine Gallacher is behind the interiors, so expect character, warmth and atmosphere rather than anything too polished. With Boxer at the helm, Vesper already feels like one of the month’s most quietly exciting arrivals. Opening: 26 May Where: 8-10 Exmouth Market, London EC1R 4QA The Victory, East Dulwich On Lordship Lane, The Victory brings new life to the former Franklins site, with Jamie Younger of The Begging Bowl behind the relaunch. In the kitchen, Seán Breen, formerly of Noble Rot, leads a British ingredient-led menu with a French bistro edge. Expect the kind of food that feels both familiar and elevated: steak tartare, Cornish crab, roast chicken and larger sharing dishes designed for long, easy tables. The drinks list leans into martinis, while the setting offers a more polished take on the classic London pub. It is the sort of opening that should quickly settle into the neighbourhood, not by shouting, but by becoming the place locals quietly want to return to. Opening: 26 May Where: 157 Lordship Lane, London SE22 8HX Appalachia, Shoreditch Taking over the former Counter 71 site in Shoreditch, Appalachia is one of the week’s more distinctive openings, an intimate counter-dining restaurant inspired by the mountainous Appalachian region of the US. Leading the kitchen is Alistair Borer, formerly of Smoking Goat, whose fire-led cooking gives the concept real edge. Dishes include smoked eel devilled eggs, BBQ quail with blue cheese slaw and country-fried rabbit with chorizo gravy, bold, smoky, deeply flavoured food that feels built for the room. The drinks programme comes from Fraser Stancombe, formerly of Three Sheets Soho, with cocktails including a Banana Pudding Sazerac and Kentucky 75. With its tight counter format and characterful menu, Appalachia looks set to give one of Shoreditch’s best restaurant spaces a very exciting new chapter. Opening: 27 May Where: 71 Nile Street, Shoreditch, London N1 7RD Website: appalachia.co.uk The Sea, The Sea, Chelsea Chelsea favourite The Sea expands on Pavilion Road this week with a new bistro and fish shop opposite its original outpost. Upstairs, the 40-cover bistro will be led by head chef Nick Marsden, with a focus on ethically sourced seafood direct from low-impact fishing vessels. The menu is a serious love letter to British coastal produce: smoked eel consommé, pickled Fowey mussels, cuttlefish with pickled salsify, skate wing with Trombetta courgette, grilled half Cornish lobster with Vin Jaune sabayon and whole plaice for sharing. Downstairs, the new fish shop adds dry-ageing cabinets, oyster shucking, a seaweed counter, lunch boxes and oven-ready seafood dishes, making it as much a destination for home cooks as for diners. There is also a 28-cover terrace, which may well make this one of Chelsea’s loveliest alfresco tables as summer arrives. For a brand already known for treating seafood with real seriousness, this feels less like an expansion and more like a natural evolution. Opening: 29 May Where: 243 Pavilion Road, London SW1X 0AW Website: theseathesea.net

In Paradise Valley, Arizona, luxury is often measured in mountain views, architectural pedigree and resort-style living. But at 5531 E Mockingbird Lane, the definition stretches a little further. This is not simply a home with impressive entertaining space. It is a private playground on a cinematic scale. Listed for $40 million with Local Luxury, an affiliate of Christie’s International Real Estate, the estate is currently being presented as the most expensive property on the market in Paradise Valley. Set across nearly two acres with sweeping views of Mummy Mountain, the residence spans more than 20,000 sq ft, with an additional 6,000 sq ft of garage space designed to house up to 18 cars. Designed by Candelaria Design and built by Arcadia Custom Builders, with recently completed phase two interiors by Katie Bowe Design, the property has been created with entertaining at its heart. Every detail feels considered for a lifestyle where privacy, comfort and spectacle exist side by side. The headline feature is impossible to ignore: an indoor go-kart track. Rare even by ultra-prime real estate standards, it gives the home a sense of playful extravagance that immediately sets it apart from the more traditional language of luxury estates. This is a residence designed not only to impress, but to be enjoyed. Inside, the scale continues. The lower level features 10 ft ceilings, a lounge and bar, theatre, salon and spa, sauna, massage room, shooting range, safe room, and dedicated indoor recreation spaces, including the go-kart track and children’s playground. It is less a basement than a private leisure complex. The main residence balances this sense of spectacle with polished design. White oak floors, rift oak cabinetry, Sierra Pacific windows and doors, a chef’s kitchen, prep kitchen and butler’s pantry create a refined domestic backdrop. Dual 432-bottle wine walls add another layer of entertaining appeal, while Control4 automation, whole-home audio, gated entry and cameras bring a sense of ease and security. Accommodation is equally generous, with eight bedrooms, seven full bathrooms and four powder rooms. Beyond the main house, a detached guest house offers dual suites, a full kitchen and laundry, while a separate studio casita provides further flexibility for visitors, staff or extended stays. Outside, the estate becomes a desert resort. The grounds feature a resort-style pool and spa, a sprawling lawn and a ramada with a full outdoor kitchen, pizza oven, grill, smoker, bar and misting system. It is designed for long afternoons, large gatherings and the kind of indoor-outdoor living that defines the most desirable homes in Arizona. Yet what makes Mockingbird Lane compelling is not simply its list of amenities, but the way they combine. This is a home for collectors, hosts, families and those who want their private residence to feel as considered as a five-star retreat. It has the architectural credentials, the location and the scale, but it also has personality. At $40 million, this Paradise Valley estate is not just one of Arizona’s most notable listings. It is a bold reminder that, at the very top of the property market, luxury is no longer just about square footage or finishes. It is about creating a world of your own.

There are few automotive moments capable of shifting the atmosphere quite like the arrival of a new Ferrari. But the unveiling of the Ferrari Luce feels different. This is not simply another chapter in Maranello’s performance story. It is the moment the Prancing Horse steps, deliberately and dramatically, into its electric future. Revealed in Rome, the city where Ferrari’s racing legend first began with the 125 S in 1947, the Luce marks a new kind of milestone for the Italian marque. It is Ferrari’s first all-electric car, its first five-seater, and perhaps most provocatively, a four-door model created not to follow expectation, but to challenge it. With 1,035 hp, four electric motors and a projected 0–62 mph time of just 2.5 seconds, the Luce is no quiet concession to the age of electrification. It is a statement of intent. Powered by a 122 kWh battery and offering an estimated range of around 329 miles, the car combines zero-emissions motoring with the kind of performance figures that ensure it remains unmistakably Ferrari. Yet it is the design that may prove most divisive. Where many expected something closer to an electric Purosangue, the Luce arrives with a shape dictated by aerodynamic ambition. Its silhouette is sleeker, stranger and more future-facing than Ferrari traditionalists might anticipate, shaped through thousands of computational simulations and hundreds of hours of wind-tunnel testing. The result is a car that feels less like a familiar Ferrari reimagined with batteries, and more like a new design language altogether. Created in collaboration with LoveFrom, the design studio led by Sir Jony Ive and Marc Newson, the Luce brings a product-design sensibility to the Ferrari world. It is restrained in places, radical in others, and entirely unwilling to be nostalgic for nostalgia’s sake. Inside, however, the Luce may be at its most compelling. Rather than leaning fully into the screen-heavy world that often defines electric vehicles, Ferrari has pursued something more tactile. The cabin balances digital precision with physical engagement, using machined aluminium controls, glass buttons and an inventive “multigraph” display that can transform between functions while retaining the drama of mechanical movement. It is a reminder that luxury, at its most meaningful, is not simply about speed or technology. It is about feeling. The weight of a switch. The curve of a surface. The sense that every detail has been considered not only for efficiency, but for emotion. Ferrari has also been careful not to abandon theatre entirely. The Luce features a powertrain-derived soundtrack, available when desired, designed to preserve some of the visceral connection that has long defined the marque. It is not an imitation of the past, but an attempt to create a new kind of Ferrari sensation for an electric age. Starting from €550,000 in Italy, the Luce is far from an entry point into the brand. Instead, it sits as a bold halo for Ferrari’s next phase: a luxury performance car designed for those who want the badge, the speed and the drama, but also the practicality of five seats and the quiet confidence of electric power. Whether Ferrari purists embrace it immediately remains to be seen. The Luce is unlikely to stir the same instant poster-car desire as an F80 or an 849 Testarossa. But perhaps that is not the point. This is a Ferrari designed not for the mythology of the past, but for the next generation of Ferraristi, the children who may first experience Maranello magic from the back seat of an electric grand tourer. For a brand built on sound, speed and combustion, the Luce is a daring act of reinvention. Its silence may be its most provocative feature. And for Ferrari, that silence might just be the loudest statement it has made in decades.

The Masters has always been more than a tournament. It’s a moment. A shift. The kind that lingers long after the final putt drops. As Rory McIlroy secured his latest victory at Augusta, the world didn’t just watch, it imagined. Golden-hour tee times. Perfectly manicured greens. The quiet thrill of stepping onto a course where the greats have played. But today’s luxury golfer isn’t chasing just a round. They’re seeking something far more immersive, destinations where championship play meets exceptional living. Where the fairway is only the beginning. From South Africa’s rising golf powerhouse to Lake Como’s timeless elegance, these are the stays redefining what a golf escape looks like now. Steyn City Hotel by Saxon, Johannesburg A new name, but already impossible to ignore. Set within one of Johannesburg’s most ambitious lifestyle estates, Steyn City Hotel by Saxon has rapidly positioned itself on the global stage, not just as a hotel, but as a serious contender in elite golf. At its centre lies an 18-hole championship course designed by Jack Nicklaus, a name synonymous with the sport’s highest standards. Recently hosting LIV Golf’s first African tournament, the course has already welcomed icons including Dustin Johnson and Jon Rahm, with its return confirmed for 2027. Yet what sets Steyn City apart is its lifestyle-led approach. Beyond the fairways, a 300-metre lagoon, cycling trails and rooftop pool culture create something closer to a private members’ enclave than a traditional golf resort. This is modern golf, social, design-led, and unapologetically global. Evian Resort, France There are few places in Europe where golf feels this cinematic. Overlooking Lake Geneva and framed by the Alps, Evian Resort is home to The Amundi Evian Championship, the only women’s Major held in continental Europe. The course itself is as technical as it is beautiful, with dramatic elevation shifts and immaculate greens that demand precision at every turn. But the real luxury here lies in contrast, the intensity of play balanced by the calm of one of France’s most refined resort settings. Think Michelin-starred dining, a world-class spa, and mornings that begin with mist rolling across the lake. Royal Mansour Tamuda Bay, Morocco Opened in 2024, Royal Mansour Tamuda Bay feels less like a hotel and more like a private coastal sanctuary. Set along Morocco’s Mediterranean shoreline, the property pairs sea-view villas with access to Cabo Negro Golf Course, an 18-hole layout positioned between mountains and ocean, where each swing comes with a shifting natural backdrop. But this is golf at its most elevated. Private transfers, curated retreat experiences and personalised butler service redefine the rhythm of a golf trip, while dining by three Michelin-starred chefs, including Quique Dacosta, ensures evenings rival the days. Add in Morocco’s first medical-aesthetic Medi-Spa, and the result is something entirely new: a golf retreat designed around restoration as much as play. Adare Manor, Ireland Few places capture the grandeur of golf quite like Adare Manor. Set across 840 acres in County Limerick, this neo-Gothic estate is preparing to host Ryder Cup 2027, a defining moment that cements its place among the world’s elite courses. Redesigned by Tom Fazio, the course blends technical precision with natural beauty, weaving through rolling parkland and along the River Maigue. Every detail, from turf quality to hole design, reflects a meticulous pursuit of perfection. Off the course, the experience becomes unmistakably Irish, falconry, fine dining, and interiors that feel both historic and deeply indulgent. This is golf with heritage, and presence. Hotel Quinta do Lago, Algarve For those who measure a golf trip in variety, Quinta do Lago delivers in threes. Part of Leading Hotels of the World, its set within the protected landscape of the Ria Formosa, the resort offers access to three championship courses, South, North and Laranjal, each with its own identity. The South Course remains the headline act, having hosted multiple Portuguese Opens, while Laranjal, carved from former orange groves, offers a more tranquil yet equally strategic round. Here, golf is seamlessly woven into the Algarve lifestyle, sun-drenched, expansive, and always just steps from the sea. Camiral, Costa Brava At Camiral, golf is only part of the story. Home to the renowned Stadium Course, consistently ranked among Europe’s best, the resort has built its reputation on championship-level play. Designed by Neil Coles and Ángel Gallardo, the course has hosted multiple European Tour events and remains one of Spain’s most respected layouts. But what elevates Camiral is its holistic approach. Recovery-focused wellness, contemporary Catalan dining and design-led accommodation create a destination that speaks to a new kind of golfer, one equally invested in performance and wellbeing. Grand Hotel Tremezzo, Lake Como For those who believe golf should come with a view, this is the ultimate expression. Perched on the shores of Lake Como, Grand Hotel Tremezzo has been a pillar of Italian hospitality for over a century. Its Art Nouveau façade and lakeside setting offer a sense of timeless glamour, the kind that doesn’t need reinvention. Nearby, the historic Menaggio & Cadenabbia Golf Club, founded in 1907, provides a course defined by precision, tradition and breathtaking scenery. Here, the rhythm is slower. Mornings on the lake. Afternoons on the fairway. Evenings that stretch long into golden light.

For over a century, Orient Express has been synonymous with the golden age of travel, where the journey itself was as indulgent as the destination. Now, the legendary name has taken to the seas with its most ambitious project yet: the launch of Corinthian, the world’s largest sailing yacht. At an extraordinary 722 feet in length, this record-breaking vessel has officially set sail from Saint-Nazaire, bound for the glittering coastline of the French Riviera, marking the beginning of a new chapter in ultra-luxury travel. Where Innovation Meets Elegance A decade in the making, Corinthian is as much a feat of engineering as it is a floating masterpiece. Built by Chantiers de l’Atlantique, the yacht introduces a groundbreaking SolidSail propulsion system, an innovation that sets a new benchmark for sustainability at sea. Three towering masts, each rising to approximately 328 feet, support over 16,000 square feet of rigid sails. Capable of rotating 360 degrees, they harness wind power with remarkable efficiency, allowing the yacht to glide through the water with minimal environmental impact. During sea trials, Corinthian achieved 12 knots under sail alone, an unprecedented milestone for a vessel of this scale. The hybrid propulsion system is equally forward-thinking, powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG) to significantly reduce emissions, while retaining the capability for traditional engine support when required. The result is a seamless blend of performance, innovation, and environmental consciousness. The Spirit of the Golden Age, Reimagined Step inside, and Corinthian reveals a world that pays homage to the romance of historic travel—reinterpreted through a contemporary lens. Under the creative direction of Maxime d’Angeac, the interiors echo the opulence of classic ocean liners and the iconic Orient Express trains, with a distinctly modern refinement. Nearly 2,000 French artisans and ateliers have contributed to the project, ensuring every detail reflects the highest level of craftsmanship. Across four expansive decks, just 54 suites create an atmosphere of exclusivity rarely found at sea. Ranging from 485 to an impressive 2,476 square feet, each suite features panoramic windows or private terraces, alongside rich materials including leather, wood veneers, and marble. Every guest is assigned a dedicated butler, an understated yet essential detail in the world of true luxury. Dining, Design, and Destination Corinthian is not simply a yacht, it is a fully realised lifestyle experience. Onboard, five restaurants and a collection of private dining spaces are curated by Michelin-starred chef Yannick Alléno, offering a culinary journey that rivals the finest establishments on land. Eight bars—including an Art Deco-inspired speakeasy and a Parisian cabaret, bring a sense of theatre and glamour to evenings at sea. A Guerlain spa, a swimming pool, and a private marina complete the offering, ensuring every moment onboard is designed around indulgence, relaxation, and discovery. The Journey Ahead From May through October, Corinthian will chart a course across the Mediterranean and Adriatic, before crossing the Atlantic for a winter season in the Caribbean. Looking ahead, an expanded collection of itineraries spanning Northern Europe and the eastern Mediterranean is already planned for 2027. As her sister ship, Olympian, prepares to join the fleet next year, it’s clear this is only the beginning. With Corinthian, Orient Express has not simply entered the world of yachting—it has redefined it.

In a world where heritage brands are increasingly stepping into the realm of high luxury, Jack Daniel’s has made its boldest move yet. The Tennessee distillery, long synonymous with timeless Americana, has unveiled a $600 limited-edition whiskey that signals a decisive shift from accessible icon to collector-grade craftsmanship. Created in collaboration with McLaren Racing, the Halo MK1 Tennessee Whiskey is not merely a co-branded release; it is a reimagining of what Jack Daniel’s can be at its most elevated. A New Chapter for an Icon Since partnering with McLaren in 2022, Jack Daniel’s has explored the intersection of whiskey and Formula 1 through a series of design-led releases. Until now, those editions have leaned into aesthetic, reinterpreting the brand’s signature Old No. 7 through McLaren-inspired packaging and subtle tweaks in proof. Halo MK1 changes that narrative entirely. Bottled at a striking 117.4 proof (58.7% ABV), this is one of the most powerful expressions the distillery has released in recent years. Yet strength alone is not the story, it is the detail behind the liquid that sets this apart. Built on the brand’s classic mashbill—80% corn, 8% rye, and 12% malted barley—the whiskey undergoes the traditional Lincoln County Process, filtered through 10 feet of sugar maple charcoal. But it is the maturation that defines Halo MK1. The barrels themselves are crafted from staves aged in the open air for an extended period before toasting, a technique designed to soften tannins and create a more refined, layered profile. According to Master Distiller Chris Fletcher, the result is a whiskey that balances intensity with elegance, offering notes of maple sweetness, ripe fruit, toasted oak, caramel, dark chocolate, and warming spice. Designed with Performance in Mind True to its Formula 1 counterpart, Halo MK1 has been engineered with the same obsessive attention to detail seen on the track. The bottle is a departure from anything Jack Daniel’s has produced before, incorporating alloy metal, micro-suede finishes, and carbon fibre detailing inspired by McLaren’s supercars. It is tactile, architectural, and unmistakably modern, transforming the whiskey into an object of design as much as a spirit to be savoured. Beyond the Bottle At $600, Halo MK1 stands as the most premium and limited global release in Jack Daniel’s history, a price point that firmly positions it within the luxury spirits space rather than the traditional whiskey market. But this is less about price, and more about positioning. In aligning with McLaren Racing, Jack Daniel’s taps into a shared language of precision, innovation, and performance, values that resonate with a new generation of collectors who seek more than heritage alone. They want story, craftsmanship, and a sense of rarity that extends beyond the liquid. A Statement of Intent Halo MK1 is not just a limited release it is a signal. A signal that legacy brands can evolve without losing their identity. That whiskey can sit comfortably alongside high-performance engineering. And that the definition of luxury continues to expand, driven by collaboration, design, and ambition. For collectors, it is a moment worth noting. For Jack Daniel’s, it may well be the beginning of an entirely new chapter.

Perched high above Los Angeles, where the skyline melts into the Pacific horizon, a new contender has quietly entered the race to become the most expensive home ever sold in the United States. Tucked within the ultra-exclusive enclave of Bel Air, this extraordinary $400 million estate is not simply a residence, it is a statement of scale, ambition, and uncompromising luxury. Spanning eight acres of prime land overlooking the prestigious Bel-Air Country Club, the property offers uninterrupted views across downtown Los Angeles and the Pacific Ocean beyond. Completed in 2018 after more than a decade in development, the Mediterranean Revival megamansion was brought to life by renowned architect and designer Peter Marino, alongside Peter McCoy of McCoy Construction. The result is nothing short of monumental: a 70,000-square-foot estate comprising 39 bedrooms, 50 bathrooms, and nine additional powder rooms. At its heart lies a 50,000-square-foot primary residence designed for both grand-scale entertaining and private retreat. Multiple formal and informal living spaces unfold beneath coffered ceilings and full-height windows, while dual kitchens, one commercial-grade, one family-focused, are supported by eight butler and service pantries, ensuring seamless hospitality at every level. Yet it is the lifestyle offering that truly sets this estate apart. Wellness is reimagined as a fully immersive experience, with a private spa featuring separate men’s and women’s facilities, a hammam, hot and cold plunge pools, and dedicated massage suites. A Moroccan-inspired indoor pool, state-of-the-art gym, Pilates studio, and even an on-site beauty salon transform the home into a self-contained sanctuary. For moments of leisure, a private cinema and multiple entertainment lounges provide the perfect backdrop for both intimate evenings and lavish gatherings. Beyond the main residence, a 30,000-square-foot guesthouse delivers an equally elevated experience, complete with its own kitchen, gym, and outdoor pool, offering guests privacy without compromise. The grounds are equally compelling. A mosaic-tiled swimming pool is framed by tiered water features and a striking Balloon Dog sculpture by Jeff Koons, while a tennis court, alfresco dining pavilion, and pizza oven create a resort-like atmosphere designed for both relaxation and celebration. Discretion and security are woven throughout, with a dedicated gatehouse, safe rooms, subterranean garage, and even a private X-ray facility, an ultra-rare addition that underscores the estate’s commitment to complete autonomy. The property, owned by an entity linked to Qatar’s ruling Al Thani family, was developed at a cost exceeding $350 million. Annual property taxes alone are said to surpass $1.4 million. Its ambitious $400 million price tag places it firmly in record-breaking territory, surpassing recent listings in Aspen and Miami, and aiming to eclipse the $238 million benchmark set by Ken Griffin for a New York penthouse. In a market where luxury is constantly being redefined, this Bel Air estate doesn’t just compete, it sets a new standard.

For the past two years, the beauty world has been firmly under the spell of glazed doughnut nails, that high-shine, pearlescent finish made iconic by Hailey Bieber. Minimal, polished, and effortlessly cool, it became the manicure of choice for those who wanted impact without intricacy. But as with all trends, evolution is inevitable. Enter cat eye nails, a more dimensional, light-catching take on nail design that feels both futuristic and quietly luxurious. Less obvious than chrome, yet far more mesmerising, it’s the manicure insiders are now requesting. What Are Cat Eye Nails? Unlike the smooth, reflective finish of chrome, cat eye nails create a three-dimensional illusion, as though light is moving beneath the surface of the nail itself. The effect is achieved using magnetic polish infused with fine metal particles. While the polish is still wet, a magnet is held close to the nail, drawing those particles into soft lines, waves, or a central glow. The result? A shifting, almost velvet-like sheen that changes with every movement of your hand. Think of it as the manicure equivalent of silk catching the light, subtle, but impossible to ignore. Why They Feel So Elevated What makes cat eye nails stand out isn’t just the technique, it’s their versatility. They can feel rich and moody when layered over deep blacks or burgundies, creating a gemstone-like depth. Or, when paired with sheer nudes and jelly tones, they take on a softer, more diffused glow, perfect for those who still want that understated, ‘clean girl’ aesthetic but with a modern twist. It’s this balance, between statement and subtlety, that makes them feel inherently more luxury than trend-led. How to Get the Look at Home While the finish looks intricate, the process is surprisingly accessible: Start with your base Choose a darker shade for a more dramatic, jewel-like effect, or opt for a sheer nude for something softer and more wearable. Work one nail at a time Apply a slightly thicker layer of magnetic polish, focusing on one finger at a time to ensure the particles remain responsive. Use the magnet Hold it just above the nail for around 10–15 seconds. Keep it still for a defined line, or move it gently around the edges to create that trending ‘velvet’ glow. Seal the finish Lock everything in with a high-shine top coat to enhance the depth and longevity.

In South Africa, wellness doesn’t begin with a spa menu, it begins with space. Space to breathe, to slow, to reconnect. Here, wellbeing is shaped not by schedules or structured programmes, but by open landscapes, quiet rituals, and the gentle rhythm of life lived closer to nature. From the wild stillness of private reserves to the cultivated calm of the Cape Winelands, this is a more instinctive, grounded approach to luxury. For those seeking something deeper than a traditional retreat, these four destinations offer a more meaningful kind of escape, where wellness is not something you book, but something you feel. Singita Ebony Lodge, Sabi Sand Set along the banks of the Sand River, Singita Ebony Lodge is where conservation and quiet luxury exist in perfect harmony. With access to 45,000 acres of private reserve, this is safari at its most intimate, where sightings of lion and leopard are part of the everyday, and elephants wander past your private plunge pool as you watch from the stillness of your suite. But it’s the unspoken details that define the experience here. Time between game drives is deliberately left open, encouraging a slower pace. A barefoot sound bath in a dry riverbed replaces traditional spa rituals, while evenings unfold under vast, star-filled skies, accompanied by the soft rhythm of traditional song. It’s not wellness as you know it, it’s something far more instinctive. Babylonstoren, Franschhoek Valley At Babylonstoren, wellness is rooted, quite literally, in the land. Set beneath the dramatic Simonsberg mountains, this working farm estate invites guests into a slower, more intentional way of living. Mornings begin with garden walks among espaliered fruit trees and vegetable plots, while afternoons drift between the bamboo-shaded Garden Spa and long, produce-led lunches sourced entirely from the estate. The spa itself feels alive, woven into its surroundings with treatments that draw on both ancient ritual and modern science. But it’s the simplicity of it all that resonates most: the quiet joy of fresh bread, local honeycomb, and sunlight filtering through vines. This is wellness stripped back to its essence. Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel, Cape Town An icon of Cape Town since 1899, Mount Nelson, affectionately known as The Pink Lady, offers a different kind of retreat: one rooted in heritage, elegance, and quiet restoration. Beyond its palm-fringed pool and famed afternoon tea lies the Librisa Spa, set across three restored Victorian houses within a fragrant herb garden. Treatments here draw on African traditions, from rhythmic wood massages to bespoke scrubs blended using botanicals grown on-site. There’s a sense of calm that settles almost instantly—a feeling that lingers long after you leave. It’s not just about relaxation; it’s about returning to yourself, in a setting that feels both timeless and deeply personal. &Beyond Phinda Forest Lodge, KwaZulu-Natal Hidden within one of the world’s rarest ecosystems, Phinda Forest Lodge offers a form of wellness that feels almost elemental. Surrounded by ancient sand forest, of which less than 5,000 acres remain globally, the lodge invites guests into a space where nature dictates the pace. Days are shaped by the contrast between the thrill of safari and the stillness that follows, with spa treatments rooted in African botanical knowledge and traditional healing practices. Here, wellness is a transition. From movement to stillness. From noise to quiet. From the outside world back to something more grounded.

For decades, the rhythm of the superyacht world has been predictable: summers along the Mediterranean, winters in the Caribbean, and a standing reservation at Monaco as the industry’s unofficial capital. But in 2026, that narrative is shifting, and fast. According to the Knight Frank Wealth Report 2026, global superyacht sales surged by 70% in 2025, reaching $8.5 billion. It marks the strongest performance since the post-pandemic boom, with American buyers driving up to half of all transactions. And at the ultra-high end, bigger is still unequivocally better; sales of yachts over 70 metres jumped 60% year-on-year. So, after spending an average of $16.6 million on a new vessel, the question is no longer if you’ll cruise, but where. The concept of a single home port is quietly dissolving. Today’s ultra-high-net-worth individuals are living increasingly global lives, splitting time between multiple residences, financial hubs, and lifestyle destinations. Naturally, their yachts are following suit. Where once the map was fixed, it is now fluid. And the most exciting anchor points are no longer the most obvious. The Middle East: From Stopover to Power Player The Gulf is no longer just a refuelling stop, it’s positioning itself as a global yachting powerhouse. Cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi are rapidly evolving into full-scale lifestyle destinations, where finance, luxury living, and marine infrastructure intersect. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Red Sea developments, including Amaala, are betting on something even bigger: the creation of an entirely new luxury coastline. With its strategic location bridging Europe and Asia, the region offers not just convenience, but a compelling new centre of gravity. Asia: The Quiet Contenders Further east, the most exciting opportunities are emerging in places long overlooked by the yachting elite. Japan is quietly transforming into a serious contender, investing in marina infrastructure and easing regulations to welcome foreign superyachts. It’s a destination where cultural richness meets underexplored cruising routes, an increasingly rare combination. Then there’s Indonesia. With over 17,000 islands and some of the world’s most pristine dive sites, the potential is undeniable. Should charter laws evolve and infrastructure expand, it could become one of the most significant players in the next decade. India: A New Buyer Powerhouse One of the most telling shifts isn’t geographical, it’s demographic. India’s rapidly growing wealthy class is entering the superyacht market in increasing numbers. Yet, rather than basing vessels domestically, many are choosing to dock in more established ecosystems—particularly the Mediterranean and Middle East. It’s a reminder that while ambition is global, infrastructure still dictates movement. And right now, the smartest owners are positioning themselves where both align. The Mediterranean: Still Reigning...For Now Despite the rise of new contenders, the Mediterranean remains the industry’s anchor. From Monaco to the Amalfi Coast and the French Riviera, its appeal is as enduring as ever, defined by world-class marinas, seamless service, and an unrivalled social calendar. For American and European owners, it remains the natural starting point. Increasingly, Indian buyers are joining the summer circuit too, further cementing its global pull. But even legacy destinations are evolving. As new regions rise, the Mediterranean is no longer the only stage, it’s simply the most established one.

In a city where real estate and cinema often intertwine, few properties blur the line quite like this one. The Manhattan penthouse that once played home to Jordan Belfort, portrayed by Leonardo DiCaprio in The Wolf of Wall Street, has returned to the market, offering buyers the rare chance to own a piece of modern film history. Set within The Milan on East 55th Street in New York City, the three-bedroom residence is now listed for just under $5 million, a notable reduction from its initial $6.95 million asking price in 2024. Spanning approximately 2,700 square feet, the penthouse delivers exactly what you would expect from a Manhattan aerie of this calibre: floor-to-ceiling glass, dual private terraces, and sweeping skyline views that stretch towards the East River. The open-plan living space is both expansive and versatile, designed to accommodate everything from intimate evenings to larger-scale entertaining, very much in keeping with its on-screen legacy. One terrace, however, holds particular notoriety. Fans of the film will recognise it as the setting for one of its more intense moments, where Belfort’s associates attempt to extract a confession by dangling a colleague over the edge. It’s a detail that adds an undeniably dramatic edge to an otherwise polished and understated home. Off-screen, the apartment’s story is more measured. Owned by businessman Bert E. Brodsky since 2015, the property has primarily served as a pied-à-terre rather than a full-time residence. During filming, director Martin Scorsese reportedly used the space with minimal disruption—Brodsky even briefly crossed paths with the cast mid-production. Beyond its role in The Wolf of Wall Street, the building itself has quietly built a reputation on screen. Gossip Girl fans may recognise its exterior as the residence of Serena van der Woodsen, while it has also featured in The Good Wife and Blue Bloods, cementing its place as one of Manhattan’s most camera-ready addresses. While the real Jordan Belfort was known for sprawling Long Island estates at the height of his career, this Midtown penthouse offers a more refined interpretation of that lifestyle. The primary suite sits on a corner, wrapped in glass and complete with a fireplace and generous storage, while the overall design leans towards clean lines and contemporary elegance rather than overt opulence. It’s a reminder that luxury today is less about excess and more about experience, light, space, location, and a story worth telling. For buyers, this is more than just a Manhattan penthouse. It’s a cultural artefact—one that bridges Hollywood storytelling with real-world luxury living. And at just under $5 million, it represents a rare opportunity to own a property that is as recognisable on screen as it is desirable off it. Because in a city like New York, square footage matters—but provenance? That’s priceless.

A historic riverside home in St George’s Square blends Victorian grandeur with modern luxury — all in one of London’s most cinematic neighbourhoods In London, location is everything, but in Pimlico’s St George’s Square, it comes with a story. Just moments from the streets featured in Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason, as well as scenes from The Crown and The Night Manager, this £10 million townhouse offers more than just prime real estate. It’s a rare chance to own a home at the intersection of London's history, culture and cinematic legacy. A Piece of Riverside Heritage Set within the elegant terraces of St George’s Square, one of London’s most historic garden squares, the Grade II-listed property dates back to 1843. Notably, it was the first residential square in the capital to open directly onto the River Thames, giving it a distinctive riverside connection that still defines its appeal today. Over the decades, the square has attracted a remarkable roster of residents, including Bram Stoker and Walter Wingfield, cementing its place among London’s most culturally rich addresses. And that sense of prestige hasn’t faded. Pimlico itself has long drawn members of the British elite, from Winston Churchill, who lived nearby, to Princess Diana, who worked in the area before her royal life began. Reimagined for Modern Living Behind its classic white stucco façade lies a home that has been entirely redefined for contemporary living. Spanning over 6,500 square feet across six floors, the property has undergone a meticulous three-year renovation, stripped back to brick and rebuilt to the highest specification. The result is a seamless blend of period character and modern precision. Grand proportions remain at the heart of the home. In the drawing room, soaring four-metre ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with natural light, framing leafy views across the square. Original features, from ornate cornicing to working fireplaces, have been carefully preserved, while chevron flooring and intelligent lighting systems introduce a more modern rhythm. Elsewhere, six bedrooms and six bathrooms offer refined private spaces, while a self-contained studio apartment on the top floor provides flexibility for guests or staff. A lift connects all principal floors, and underfloor heating and air conditioning run throughout, subtle luxuries that elevate everyday living without disrupting the home’s historic integrity. A Cinematic London Address Part of what makes this home so compelling is its setting. St George’s Square is not just architecturally significant, it’s visually iconic. The surrounding streets have become a backdrop for some of Britain’s most recognisable productions, lending the area a quiet familiarity that feels both nostalgic and distinctly London. It’s easy to imagine stepping out onto these streets and into a scene, whether it’s a moment of romantic comedy chaos à la Bridget Jones , or the polished drama of The Crown . Timeless, Yet Entirely Turnkey In a market where true turnkey heritage homes are increasingly rare, this property stands apart. It offers the scale, history and architectural beauty of a classic London townhouse, paired with the comfort, efficiency and design sensibility expected of modern luxury living. At £10 million, it isn’t just a home, it’s a statement address, rooted in the past yet designed for how we live now. https://alexandermain.co/project-reapit/st-georges-square-amn260025