Luxury Link Lifestyle

SPRING 2014SPAINS E N S ATI O N A LSPAIN’S GALAXY OFMICHELIN STARSSPANISH STYLE GUIDE FROMCARNETDEMODE.COMONE PERFECT WEEK INMADRID, BARCELONA ANDBASQUE COUNTRYALSOSEVEN ROOFTOP HOTELBARS WE LOVEIN THE SPOTLIGHT: ROUNDHILL HOTEL AND VILLAS 1LUXURY LINK LIFESTYLE

PRESIDENT’S Above: Toledo at sunrise LINK Left: Ramales de la Victoria, Cantabria DEAR FRIENDS,H2 LUXURY LINK LIFESTYLE

IN THIS ISSUE04: What’s New at Luxury LinkRound-the-clock Concierge availability,exclusive tours in exotic destinations, thechance to win a luxe golf retreat in Curaçao andan inspiring love story highlight what’s new withthe world’s leading luxury travel website.10: Seven Extraordinary RooftopBarsAcross the globe, few things are universal… butone of them is reverence for an al frescococktail! From London to Bangkok to Moroccoand beyond, find out where you can enjoy afavorite beverage shaken or stirred, under thesun or stars.15: Luxury Link Connection: RoundHill Hotel and VillasInsights from the managing director of this five-star resort in Montego Bay, Jamaica, as well as aLuxury Link traveler just back from her vacationexperience.20: Under the Michelin StarsSpain’s Celebrated Culinary Scene28: Carnetdemode.com’s SpanishStyle Diary36: One Perfect Week in Madrid,Barcelona and Basque Country 3 LUXURY LINK LIFESTYLE

WHAT’S NEW AT LUXURY LINK? On Valentine’s Day, we announced the winner of our #LoveAndLuxury photo contest... .. and there couldn’t have been a more deserving recipient. Karen L. of New Jersey submitted a collage of her son’s surprise proposal while on leave from the Navy in Japan. The photo garnered over 300 Facebook likes, and with it a $500 Luxury Link gift certificate that Mat and Krystin will use towards their upcoming honeymoon! Flat roFulnadt,rsoquunadr,es,qrouuanred,Frboloaurtndrdeodubnoadnrdd, esldqounaagnrdeso,lorconiauglnisdcoobcnioasrldiceodnasnd lon • 24 Soc•i2a4l IScocnisailnIctoontaslin to•ta2l4 Social Ic•oPnasciknI•tnoPctalaucldkeIsncludes • Pack • Full Ed• iFtuablllEeditable • Full Editable Ai xA1iAI Filex1 AI File Ai Eps • Organ•izOerdgaLnaiyzeerds Layers • Organized LaEypesrs xE1pEsPS Filxe1 EPS File Social-ize with Us! Round FRlaotund Flat Round Flat Use #luxurylink when you post vacation photos on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram... Square FSlaqtuare Flat Square Flat We’ll re-post the best images!4 LUXURY LINK LIFESTYLE

Keep an eye out for our next incredible sweepstakes opportunity starting April 7. Thistime, Luxury Link has partnered with Tasting Table to send one lucky winner and a guest to Santa Barbara Beach& Golf Resort in Curaçao, including airfare. EXOTIC TOUR ITINERARIES Luxury Link has partnered touring in impeccable with a high-end tour oper- style, explore exotic des- ator to craft six incredible tinations like Sri Lanka or itineraries exclusive to our get up close and personal site, some in destinations with more wildlife than offered for the first time you can imagine on an to our travelers. While East African air safari.luxurylink.com/exotictoursREACH US ANYTIME!Our travel concierge experts are now available to assist you 24 hours aday, seven days a week at 877-372-5877. Your next extraordinary vacationexperience is a phone call away, morning, noon or (middle of the) night… Our sister site Vacationist has partnered 5 with Uber – Everyone’s Private Driver – for a limited-time offer. Vacationist mem- LUXURY LINK LIFESTYLE bers will receive up to $20 towards their first ride with Uber when they tell friends about the site via Facebook, Twitter or email. New members will also get $20 to spend on their first Uber ride upon joining Vacationist.com!

ESC APE T H E EV ERY DAY...6 LUXURY LINK LIFESTYLE

With more than 1,000 luxury vacation experiencesin over 80 countries, you’re sure to find the perfect escape. *Chedi Club Tanah Gajah, Bali 7 LUXURY LINK LIFESTYLE

ISTP’SAINWEEK... here at Luxury Link, and we’re celebratingthe vibrancy of the Iberian Peninsula withseveral exciting events. Statue of Charles III, Puerto Del Sol, Madrid Now through Friday, April 4, when you book a vacation experience at an incredible Spanish hotel or resort, receive a 10% credit in your Luxury Link account towards a future stay at any of our 700 partners worldwide!LIVE SPAIN TRAVEL CHAT Need some inspiration and Clockwise from top: Wednesday, April 2 advice for your holiday in The Cyrstal Palace, Madrid Spain? Join us Wednesday, with ALFONSO MARTINEZ FISCHER April 2 at 2 p.m. ET, for a Roman Gold Mines live chat with Spanish travel Virgen del Pilar and Ebro River, Aragon, Spain industry executive Alfonso Martínez Fischer. He’ll join us Cala Macarelleta, Minorca, Spain from Madrid to answer your questions about the sights, sounds, tastes and spirit of Spain. RSVP HERE and let Alfonso help plan your next Spanish getaway.8 LUXURY LINK LIFESTYLE

AT A LOCATION: Far southwest corner ofGLANCE Europe, sharing the Iberian Peninsula with Portugal TIME ZONE: Central European Time (One hour ahead of London, six ahead of New York) CURRENCY: Euro (€ ) AIR TRANSPORTATION: Transcontinental flights typically arrive in either Madrid (MAD) or Barcelona (BCN), with Malaga (AGP) on the Costa del Sol an emerging international gateway. The national carrier of Spain is Iberia, while a dizzying array of European low-cost airlines fly to Spain. Visit kayak.com. ON THE GROUND: Renfe (renfe.es) is Spain’s national rail service, with connections to nearly every corner of the country. Trains designated as “AVE” are high-speed lines. BEST TIME TO VISIT: Late spring and early fall are ideal to ensure pleasant temperatures and manageable crowds. The southern Costa del Sol and Andalucia stay warm much of the year (very hot in summer), while the northern coast – including Basque Country – sees cooler climes and more rain. Madrid and Barcelona have chilly winters and hot summers, particularly so in the capital. Note that Spaniards and other Europeans descend upon the country’s beaches en masse in July and August. LUXURY LINK IN SPAIN: At press time, Luxury Link offers vacation experiences at 21 five-star and boutique properties across the country. EXPLORE THE COLLECTION HERE. 9 LUXURY LINK LIFESTYLE

SEVENEXTRAORDINARY ROOFTOP BARS Across the globe, few things are universal… but one of them is reverence for an al fresco cocktail! Rooftop bars are an integral concept at many of our Luxury Link partner hotels, and we’ve highlighted some of the finest properties worldwide that relish in serving you a favorite beverage shaken or stirred, under the sun or stars… 1 ME MADRID REINA VICTORIA Madrid Simply called The Roof, you know exactly where you are while enjoying a sumptuous cocktail at ME Madrid Reina Victoria’s open-air bar in the heart of the Spanish capital. Accessible by private elevator, the bar itself is embedded in a broken stone wall. 10 LUXURY LINK LIFESTYLE

2 New YorkGANSEVOORT MEATPACKING NYC After a long winter, spring has arrived in New York City, and with it the revelry will be flowing nightly at Plunge Bar + Lounge atop Gansevoort Meatpacking NYC. The 360-degree view of the Manhattan skyline is free to all bar patrons, but the calming pool is open only to hotel guests.3 After dining at the Michelin-starred on-site All’Oro Restaurant, saunter upstairs to the intimate Roof Garden at The First Luxury Hotel Roma. The Eternal City bursts to life after nightfall, with monuments like St. Peter’s Basilica and Coliseum gloriously illuminated before your eyes. THE FIRST LUXURY ART HOTEL Rome 11 LUXURY LINK LIFESTYLE

Proclaimed by the New York Times as “the most stunning rooftop bar you’ll ever see”, SkyBar – high atop lebua at State Tower – is a movie star, featuring prominently in the climactic scene of Hangover Part II. Sixty-three stories above Bangkok, gaze at the twinkling lights and Chao Praya River that winds through this bustling Asian metropolis. LEBUA AT STATE TOWER 4 Bangkok12 LUXURY LINK LIFESTYLE

5 Try not to eavesdrop on “Inside the Beltway” gossip as you lounge at the only open-air rooftop bar on Capitol Hill. If you have a little too much nighttime fun at the Liaison, decompress and re-center yourself the following morning at the hotel’s complimentary poolside yoga classes every day. THE LIAISON CAPITOL HILL Washington, D.C.6 Imbibing in Morocco is done discreetly, and you won’t find more serene surroundings to do so than at Fès’ Palais Amani. Its rooftop bar looks down onto the riad’s spectacular garden, or outward towards the city’s vibrant medina. Our insiders tell us Chef Abdou’s mojito served at sunset is an absolute must. PALAIS AMANI Fès, Morocco 13 LUXURY LINK LIFESTYLE

7 London ME LONDON Don’t have time to visit all of London’s legendary landmarks? Soak them up in one incredible panoramic view from the 10th floor perch a ME London’s chic Radio Rooftop Bar, overlooking London Eye, Trafalgar Square, London Bridge, Covent Garden and St. Paul’s Cathedral .14 LUXURY LINK LIFESTYLE

For 17 years, Luxury Link has been driven by a mission to inspire apassion for travel by connecting people with the world’s most extraordinary hotels, resorts and vacation experiences. Hear from Josef Forstmayr, Managing Director of Jamaica’sRound Hill Hotel and Villas, and traveler Jill Stelluto-Hall, who visited this five-star re- sort in Montego Bay with her husband in January, 2014. Yet another Luxury Link connection...LUXURY LINK: LUXURY LINK:What makes Round Hill Hotel and Villas a What made Round Hill Hotel and Villas aunique experience for guests? special vacation experience for you? Hotelier Traveler JOSEF FORSTMAYR: JILL STELLUTO-HALL: The lush and tropical gardens, private The intimacy of the resort. The staff villas in the privacy of the 110 acres pen- insula and the warm Jamaican hospitali- tended to every need and anticipated ty create a unique experience for all our visitors. Round Hill is the quintessential our needs. For example: One of the life- Jamaican resort… We define luxury as guards, David, climbed a palm tree to cut down coconuts for my husband and me since I had never had a fresh coconut. 15 cLoUnXUtiRnYuLeIdNKoLnIFpEaSgTYeL1E7

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having the ability to be in an outdoor One of the other staff members camesetting with indoor furnishings, from around to the rooms and hand-deliveredthe luxurious sofas to the covered ve- Jamaican rum to our doorstep as a wel-randahs. come gift. Every day there was compli- mentary high tea where all the guests LL) Can you explain what makes Ja- gathered in one of the restaurants for teamaica appealing to travelers as a vacation des- sandwiches, desserts and fresh-brewedtination? tea. This became a daily highlight for us. JF) Jamaica offers the most sen-suous environment, from the tropical LL) Please explain why you chosemountains, the white san- Jamaica for your vacation?dy beaches and the mostbeautiful people. The JSH) Wonderful place tomusic, the food and the visit in the winter and onlygeneral vibe create the a couple hours from wheresexiest destination in the we live in Charlotte, NorthWestern hemisphere. Carolina. LL) Are there any LL) Talk about some“must-try” dishes or drinks of the best dishes you savoredat the property that guests while at Round Hill Hotelshould order? and Villas? JF) Stewart’s fa- JSH) Grilled octopusmous Round Hill Special with vegetable quinoa wasrum punch will put you my favorite lunch dish. Thein the “proper mood”. octopus was grilled to per-Meanwhile our organic fection, soft and melted ingardens provide some of your mouth, accompaniedthe most delicious fresh by the grilled vegetablegarden greens and herbs. Our executive quinoa (came straightchef Martin Maginley has developed a from their organic garden)farm-to-table dining experience which topped with fresh basil.is now all the rage in Jamaica. The beach grill night had a va- LL) What are the three things aboutyour property that guests may not know? riety of fabulous dishes to choose from; JF) 1 – The name Round Hillgoes back to the time when the British my favorite was the grilled lobster. They set up the beach draped with white ta- ble cloths on 20 tables or so surround- ed with tiki torches. The spread was ex- tensive from cold dishes to a huge grill where they were grilling fresh lobsters and steaks to a dessert table. One of the 17 LUXURY LINK LIFESTYLE

took over from the Spanish in 1655. It sous chefs’ specialties was bananas fosterwas always part of a landmark sugar and cherries jubilee.cane, coconut and pineapple plantation. 2 – The wife of our founder John Pring- LL) Describe the service that youle was one of the most famous fashionmodels of her time; Liz Benn appeared experienced at the property.on the cover of Time magazine in 1953.3 - On the top of Round Hill is the original JSH) The service was top notch;wall of Round Hill Fort, which used to be this was part of the allure for choosingpart of the protective fortifications for the Round Hill. All the reviews suggested“Baya de Manteca” (i.e., Bay of Pig’s Lard). Round Hill’s service was impeccable, and they did not disappoint. The staff learned our names immediately, and we felt as if we were a guest at a friend or family’s home - not at a resort.It later became Montego Bay. LL) What advice do “The service was top They went out of theiryou have for guests who are notch; this was part of way to please you andstaying at your hotel? the allure for JF) Try to be a bit choosing Round Hill...” nobody ever said “no” toadventurous and explore us for anything. We espe-the beautiful interior cially enjoyed the manag-countryside of Jamaica, from Mayfield er’s reception, where we met a few of the other guests and the managers of the property over cocktails and appetizers.Falls to the Safari on the Black River on LL) What were some of your favoriteour unspoiled South Coast. activities to do both on and off the property? LL) What is the best time to travelto Jamaica? JSH) We visited the spa. It was JF) Jamaica has the BEST weath- housed in an 18th century plantationer of any part of the world; never too house and had two Swedish massages.hot, never too cold, never too wet and We also enjoyed the walking trails that circled the property and took us past Ralph Lauren’s home with spectacular views of the ocean.never too dry. Naturally, when North LL) What advice do you have forAmerica and Europe are in the grips of other guests who are staying at Round Hill?winter, from November until May, Ja- JSH) Stay as long as you can!maica’s climate is fantastic. Round Hill is a five-star resort… Enjoy the royal treatment! Luxury Link offers four to seven-night vacation experiences at Round Hill Hotel & Spa – for either two or four guests – at rates up to 44% off other travel sites. luxurylink.com/roundhill18 LUXURY LINK LIFESTYLE

24/7 CONCIERGEOur new 24-hour free Concierge service is designed to help you craft the perfect vacation experience, day or night. Speak to a free travel expert and find your next getaway today. (877) 372-5877 19 LUXURY LINK LIFESTYLE

S-pa-in-’sUnder the Michelin Stars GouRmet D_ining SceneByDamonM.Banks20 LUXURY LINK LIFESTYLE

pain experienced a record year for tourism in 2013 with more than 60.5Smillion foreign visitors, and one of the main reasons it’s “trending” is the burgeoning culinary scene that continues to gain more attention internationally. And for good reason...The sophistication of Spanish cuisine and the delectable duplicated. Fruits are plentiful year-around, withdishes being created by its world-class chefs has several favorites during the spring and summerresulted in numerous awards, including a galaxy of being peaches, melons, figs and apricots. HamMichelin stars shining above the Iberian Peninsula. is ubiquitous in any Spanish city or town, with the delicacy of the acorn-fed Iberian pigs (jamón ibéri-The tapas craze is a quintessentially Spanish notion co de bellota) being world-renowned. Finally, thethat has become a global phenomenon, and the bar creamy elegance of the famed Manchego cheesecontinues to rise as chefs experiment with innovative, comes from a sheep of the same name in the regionintense flavors packed into every of La Mancha.dish. From Singapore, to Hong Spanish cuisine Spain is also home to anKong and at home in the Unit- remains a reference abundance of remarkableed States, a growing number of wines – being the third largestSpanish restaurants are making in the kitchensthemselves known. all over the world producer of wine in the world – as well as the tourist-favor-“Spanish cuisine remains a ite sangria that is a delicatereference in kitchens all over the world,” explains combination of wine, brandy, sweetener and freshChef Óscar Velasco of Santceloni Madrid. “This makes fruit. ¡Buen provecho!our kitchen very rich and solid, which generates ex-pectations to many people in the world who are willing While there are delicacies specific to each regionto come to Spain to experience the real thing.” of this diverse country, Madrid, Barcelona and the Basque Country provide dynamic destinationsLooking beyond the tapas concept of eating, the complete with fascinating people, places and ac-Spanish diet leans heavily upon the Mediterranean tivities, along with sensational dining experiences.way of life with fresh seafood, olive oil and vegetables,and it’s simply delicious. Traditional dishes likepaella are often served internationally, but rarely 21 LUXURY LINK LIFESTYLE

madrid While there are more than After the unfortunate passing of Santamaría, 3,000 places to eat in Madrid, it’s Velasco has continued to develop a menu each season with a clear multicultural emphasis thatstill amazing to see the number of Michelin stars distributed throughout represents the cultures that have converged in Madrid.the Spanish capital. Chefs developing menus and restaurants at this “Santceloni is an elegant and stylish dininglevel are the very reason Spanish cuisine continues to expand globally, experience with great harmony,” described Velasco. The entire team collaborates eachbecoming more appreciated by an international audience. night to continue the traditions and standards established by Chef Santamaría, as they “re-There are many culinary excursions are waiting to be explored spect raw materials, give importance to localthroughout the entire city, making a centrally-located hotel imperative produce and use techniques in the kitchento experiencing the true Madrid. Hesperia Madrid is at the center service, while maintaining authenticity as theof the action providing a sophisticated and chic place to call home standard.”while visiting this exciting city. Not just a stylish hotel for visitors, butalso an ideal meeting place for locals, Hesperia Madrid offers a unique Striving to delight both locals and international tourists, Velasco’s all-time favorite dish is his selection of restaurants and Segovia-style roast suckling pig (from the region bars to satisfy almost any where he was raised), and a seasonal favorite is desire. the restaurant’s famous artichoke, celeriac and black truffle with ham and rye juice. When only the best will do, the ultimate culinary des- tination when in Madrid is Santceloni – the shining Michelin star of Hesperia Madrid. The history of this restaurant is almost as stimulating as the food served by Chef Óscar Velasco and his team each night. Opened in 2001 with SantiSantamaría leading the way as one of the country’s most famouschefs and owner of Can Fabes, Santceloni earned its first Michelinstar within a year, followed by a second in 2003. Since then, therestaurant continues to wow guests each night with beautifullyinventive cuisine.22 LUXURY LINK LIFESTYLE

WHEN IN MADRID, feel the pulse of the city SANTCELONI at Hesperia Madrid Paseo de la Castellana, 57like a local by visiting one of the buzzing destinations where it’s Tel: +34 912 10 88 40all about seeing and being seen. Or, slip away to enjoy a quiet cof-fee with a decadent dessert. Two local favorites are Ramsesand Café de Oriente, which both offer a variety of dining anddrink options. At the end of the night when only the trendiestplace will do, The Roof at ME Madrid is a must-visit while sa-voring the fresh night air and rooftop views. RAMSES Plaza de Independencia, 4 Tel: +34 914 35 16 66CAFÉ DE ORIENTEPlaza de Oriente, 2Tel: +34 915 41 39 74 THE ROOF at ME Madrid Plaza de Santa Ana, 14 Tel: +34 917 01 60 20 23 LUXURY LINK LIFESTYLE

BarcelonaAs the second-largest city in Spain and capital of the semi-autonomous Catalonia painstakinglyregion – also serving as one of Europe’s principle seaports – Barcelona is a culinary fresh anddelight any time of the year. Catalan cuisine obviously has a rich history withthe availability of foreign foods arriving on its shore combined with the rich local eclectic menusingredients from the mountains and sea. Spring and summer launches an exciting dazzlevigor to the culinary scene in Barcelona; bringing together the traditional dishes with guests each the modern and experiential tech- night niques, but all based on the Mediter- ranean ideals of fresh and local. After taking in Barcelona’s architectural wonders like Gaudi’s Modernist mas- terpieces and the Gran Teatre del Liceu by day, at night an exquisite culinary experience awaits your dis- covery at Dos Cielos, the pride of the Meliá Barcelona Sky. Many view Dos Cielos as being twice as good as its competi- tors by bringing twice the star power to the menu with Michelin star-rated chefs who just happen to be brothers, Sergio and Javier Torres. Their painstakingly fresh and eclectic menus dazzle guests each night, while maintaining the traditions that have made Barcelona a leading gastronomic destination in Europe. Situated on the 24th floor, Dos Cielos diners find themselves mesmerized by tan- talizing views of the Mediterranean, the mountains and the impressive Barcelona cityscape. The brothers’ imaginative haute cuisine — together with an attentive team and breathtaking views — have earned the restaurant a Michelin star, and was voted Best Restaurant of the Year by the Catalan Academy of Gastronomy. Their love for local ingredients has also lead to the brothers cultivating an impressive organic herb garden on the roof of the hotel and a new sister restaurant, DO2, in the lower level of the hotel where they use the freshest Mediterranean ingredients to create home- style comfort food for guests.24 LUXURY LINK LIFESTYLE

MIRABÉCarrer de Manuel Arnús, 2Tel: +34 934 34 00 35 DOS CIELOS at Meliá Barcelona Sky Carrer de Pere IV, 272-286 Tel: +34 933 67 20 50 LA BOQUERIA MARKET Rambla, 91 Tel: +34 933 18 25 84MUSEU NACIONAL D’ART DE CATALUNYAPalau Nacional, Parc de Montjuïc, s/nTel: +34 936 22 03 60 Typical Barcelona-style dining and drinking is done out- side whenever possible, and two favorite terrace destinations are Mirabé for an extensive cocktail menu (after 7:00 p.m.) and a splendid view from the balcony at the end of the Avenida Tibadabo. Meanwhile, the Terrace at Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya boasts a view that delivers the true essence of Barcelona. Perusing La Boqueria Market is an essential experience for any foodie, with an amazing selection of Iberian ham, cheese, seafood and more for sale behind its large iron gates. Here, you shop among — and learn from — the locals. 25 LUXURY LINK LIFESTYLE

basqueFood is at the heart of thecountrySpanish culture, and thisproves truer than ever whenexperiencing the culinary lifestyle of the northeastern Basque Coun-try. From the celebrated chef, to the family on the farm, to the fisher-man’s family along the coast, natives of Basque Country eat, breatheand live food. To further prove this point, Basque Country boasts themost Michelin starred restaurants per capita in the world. A stylish hotel option when visiting as “one of the best cuisines he’s experienced in this region is the Silken Gran Do- his life.” mine Bilbao, sitting opposite the Guggenheim Museum and an ar- For a unique Spanish wine excursion a few hours tistic masterpiece in its own right. south of Bilbao, Comenge Winery is located The feeling of creativity here is in Curiel de Duero, where guests can walk the simply inspiring. There are sev- grounds, enjoy wine tasting courses, savor spe- eral special dining opportunities cialty gastronomic events or take part in work- at the hotel for those not wanting shops and equestrian activities. The team here to leave the property. Under the creates very intimate bespoke experiences, and guidance of Chef Martín Berasate- have the ability to teach the art of winemaking to gui, with seven Michelin stars to his wine experts and novices alike. name, options include DOMA and the more casual, yet very chic Le “Wine has always been an fundamental part of Café Metropol. our gastronomy and culture,” explained Álvaro Comenge, Sales Manager of Comenge Winery. Tucked amongst the exhibits and “Different indigenous varietals have existed for instillations of the Frank Gehry-de- several thousand years but it was during the time signed Guggenheim Museum Bil- of the Roman Empire that the production was in- bao, works of culinary art await at Nerua (Avda. Abandoibarra, 48009; tensified in order to provide all the empire with Tel: +34 944 00 04 30). Chef Josean Alija is a maestro both in the the precious beverage produced in what is today kitchen and with a variety of other creative projects done outside the Spain.” walls of Nerua. Characterized as a purist in terms of aromas, textures and flavors, Alija continues to push the envelope to also appeal to the avant-garde style. Paul Bocusse, the famous French chef best known for his nouvelle cuisine, has identified Alija’s inventive menus26 LUXURY LINK LIFESTYLE

NERUA Av Abandoibarra, 2 Tel: +34 944 00 04 30 SILKEN GRAN DOMINE BILBAO Alameda de Mazarredo, 61 Tel: +34 944 25 33 00BODEGA COMENGE (COMENGE WINERY)Camino del Castillo s/n 47346 Curiel del Duero, ValladolidTel: +34 983 88 03 63The Future of Spanish Gastronomy ABOUT THE AUTHOR Damon M. Banks’ involvement onFollowing several years of questionable economic times for the country, multiple levels within the travel,both the numbers of tourists and chefs earning Michelin stars continue to hospitality, business and lifestylerise. “The economic situation in our country has affected everyday life, and industries allow him to provideof course the cuisine too, but a firm commitment from the customers to a unique perspective as an editorialquality remains firm,” added Chef Óscar Velasco of Santceloni Madrid. contributor, freelance journalist and industry expert to a variety ofWhile Spanish flavors continue to radiate globally, there will be an increased international print publications, onlinedemand by foodies of the world to visit Spain and experience this complex media and news outlets.cuisine for themselves. Spain has a wealth of attractions and activities to DamonBanks.comoffer tourists, but at its core is a reverence for food as an artform that willpermeate the experience of every visitor. 27 LUXURY LINK LIFESTYLE

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carnetdemode.comSpanish Style Diary(and handbook for keeping it fashionable in spain) Carnetdemode.com, Europe’s premier on- line curated fashion destination presents a special handbook for keeping it fashion- able in Spain. Established as a worldwide talent hunter, carnetdemode.com presents a unique collection of over 200 exclusive designers and offers more than 10,000 statement fashion pieces in ready to wear, couture, jewelry, handbags, shoes and ac- cessories for women and men. Be inspired by carnetdemode.com 29 LUXURY LINK LIFESTYLE

what to wear in MADRID=by=======carnetdemode.com =======================Dress codes in Madrid rangefrom hippy to sophisticated. The“Pijo’s” (“posh” in Spanish) dresswith complete sophistication.At the other end, there’s the hippy style (usually -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------flaunted by 20 and 30-somethings), which is morerelaxed and bohemian. For a more colorful BOHEMIAN LOOK, wearA WELL-FITTED To get the PIJO LOOK, carry A LONG FLOWING MAXI DRESS, COTTON DRESS AND SKIRT, STRAPPY SANDALS, LOTS OF CRISP SHIRTS, A SMART JACKET, ACCESSORIES AND A JUTE BAG. A CLUTCH AND A GORGEOUS The great thing is that you’ll find these two oppositePAIR OF LEATHER HEELS. groups happily rubbing shoulders in many bars. shop the PIJO LOOK at carnetdemode.com shop the BOHEMIAN LOOK on carnetdemode.com30 LUXURY LINK LIFESTYLE

what to wear in The Catalans care about their appearance and are generally not too casual, keeping it classic is the key. Light colors, summers dresses or skirts paired withbarcelona==========================by carnetdemode.com sandals is the perfect look from day to night in summer.A BIG BAG TO CARRY YOUR ESSENTIALS (which should include ashawl for when it gets chilly) with a good strap and zipper should keep you safe from snatchers.The church is an integral part of Spanish life and wearing shorts or being scantily-dressed whilst visiting Barcelona’scathedrals will not be appreciated, so save that (and your swimwear) for the beach!A COMFORTABLE PAIR OF FLAT SANDALS OR SHOESFor walking the cobblestoned streets, get . Espadrilles aregreat, and you’ll notice that Spanish espadrilles (alpargatas) have a much lower platform.DON’T FORGET A PAIR OF SUNGLASSESFinally, and get a lovely Spanish fan; not only is it a stylish accessory, it’llkeep you cool in the summer heat!shop the BARCELONA LOOK on carnetdemode.com 31 LUXURY LINK LIFESTYLE

what toBASQUE COUNTRYwear in---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------b-y-ca-rn-e-td-em-o-d-e.-co-m---------------------TRENCH COATThe first piece to pack in your suitcase should be a since rains are common in the Basque area.Apair of JEANS OR LEGGINGS, A BLOUSE, COMFORTABLE SHOES AND A NICE SLING BAG would be a great look while visting the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao.SWIM AND RESORT WEAROn the other hand, stock up on in San Sebastian, as this resort towns boasts of one of thebest in-city beaches in Europe, Playa de la Concha.bilbao san sebastiAn ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- shop the BILBAO LOOK at carnetdemode.com shop the SAN SEBASTIAN LOOK on carnetdemode.com32 LUXURY LINK LIFESTYLE

DESIGNER FOCUS- Before hitting the commercial brands for your shopping, check out carnetdemode.com for local emerging Spanish designers to get a better feel of “Made in Spain” designs. LOTOCOHO discover LOTOCOHO on carnetdemode.com MadridL·T·C·H· is made up by Anna Tomich Hockensmith (London-born designer whogrew up in Texas) and Jorge López Conde (architect from Spain). By translatinglandscapes and signs into Unique Jewellery, they have created a collectionnamed “Ergonomic Territories” which reconstructs the relationship betweenthe landscape and the body. Using materials like gold, silver, wood, bronze,brass, stainless steel and plastic polyamide, the pair creates unique rings,brooches, bracelets, necklaces, toques and masks. SAVEÉN Barcelona Inspired by a passion for traveling and discovering new expertly-crafted ex- otic pieces, at Saveén you’ll find beautifully-made high quality exotic leather products that have the touch of uniqueness that only comes from handmade goods. Available only in limited quantities, these bags are the perfect piece ifdiscover SAVEÉN on you are looking for quality and exclusivity. Moreover, all the products are dyedcarnetdemode.com according to eco-friendly procedures. 33 LUXURY LINK LIFESTYLE

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With its vibrant, historic cities in close proximity to each other, and efficient transportation options connecting them, Spain is an ideal country to visit on a one-week, multi-stop vacation. Here’s our ideal itinerary to capture the spirit of Spain, with some hotel recommendations to match.36 LUXURY LINK LIFESTYLE

HOTEL RITZ by Belmond MADRID As Spain’s main international hub, most visits start and/or end in the capital cityfor classic baroque opulence just a stone’s throw of Madrid. Perhaps no other European city (yes, even Paris) boasts afrom the Prado greater collection of world-class art than Madrid, most housed in its three grand museums. Many first-time visitors start at Museo del Pra-GRAN MELIA FENIX do, displaying about 1,300 works created between the 12th and early 19th centuries by renowned artists including Francisco de Goya, Diegofor a modern, vibrant-chic vibe in the trendy Velázquez and Titian. You could easily spend an entire day wanderingSalamanca neighborhood. the Prado’s cavernous halls, but also beckoning is the adjacent Parque del Retiro, where Madrileños come to play, picnic and simply stroll. On another day, choose between the other two members of Madrid’s Golden Triangle of Art: Museo Reina Sofía primarily highlights Spain’s 20th-century masters like Salvador Dali and Pablo Picasso, while the Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza fills in the gaps of its sister galleries with Renaissance pieces from across Europe, plus impressionist and expres- sionist paintings from the latter 20th century. Madrid is also the perfect training ground for that most Spanish of din- ing traditions, the tapas crawl. Saunter between lively bars in the com- pact city center, sipping the best tempranillos of the Rioja region and choosing from the inventive small plates on the menu (or sometimes on display). Octopus and salt cod-based dishes are popular, along with seemingly infinite varieties of ham. 37 LUXURY LINK LIFESTYLE

BARCELONA If Madrid is all about art, CLARIS HOTEL then Barcelona is all aboutarchitecture. Whisk from the capital to the Mediterranean coast in un- stylish, huge junior suites with Italian marble andder three hours via the AVE high-speed rail line and begin your tour of the latest tech gadgetry, lying steps from fabulousAntoni Gaudí’s Modernist wonders from the late 1800’s: the imposing shopping on Passeig de Gràciaandstill-unfinishedLaSagradaFamiliacathedral,thebeguiling-yet-re-laxing Parc Güell overlooking the entire city and the out-of-this world THE LEVEL AT MELIALa Pedrera (which may hold special appeal for Star Wars fans). BARCELONA SKYGaudi’s contributions to the Barcelona cityscape are actually fairly re- an architectural wonder in its own right, with itscent, as this is an ancient city with the Romans arriving in the first cen- sleek 24-story tower emphasizing right anglestury BC. That history is most evident in the maze-like narrow streets overlooking one of the city’s best beaches.of the Gothic Quarter, which empties onto the famous pedestrianthoroughfare Las Ramblas. Amble past street performers to Barcelo-na’s port and beaches, or take an aerial tramway to the top of Montjuic,home to a 17th-century castle and some fabulous museums includingone dedicated exclusively to the works of Joan Miró.As you may have gathered, Barcelona is a city for walkers, and all thatexploring is bound to work up an appetite. Paella is everywhere, butmake sure you’re indulging in the authentic, slow-cooked variety that’ssometimes elusive. Ask your hotel concierge for recommendations, andobserve the golden rule of avoiding any restaurant “proudly” advertis-ing photos of its paella.38 LUXURY LINK LIFESTYLE

BASQUE After spending the start of the COUNTRY week exploring two of Europe’s most celebrated cities, end your Spanish holiday in the country’s beautiful and verdant northeastern reaches. The semi-autonomous Basque Country – Pais Vasco in Spanish or Euskadi in Basque – is accessible via a short one-hour flight from Barcelona, or scenic eight- hour train journey for those on a more relaxed itinerary. Visitors will want to focus on two areas: funky, art-loving Bilbao, and the relaxed seaside resort city of San Sebastian.SILKEN GRAN DOMINE Bilbao burst onto the international arts scene in 1997 with the open-BILBAO ing of the Frank Gehry-designed Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, which dominates much of the cityscape along the Nervión River. Inside thisadjacent to the Guggenheim and an art gallery in undulating titanium behemoth you’ll find works by influential modern artists, plus large-scale art installations. Then make your way to Bil-its own right, home to a 90-foot sculpture in its bao’s atmospheric Casco Viejo (Old Town) to shop at independent bou- tiques and mingle with gregarious locals at any number of bars. Try thesky-lit atrium. local cider, poured dramatically by bartenders in a high arc to ensure maximum fizzyness… and flavor!An hour’s drive east, prepare to have your jaw drop and stomach rumble in San Sebastian. Centered aroundcrescent-shaped Playa de la Concha and flanked by two towering hills ripe for hiking, it’s nearly impossibleto take a bad photo anywhere in the city. Bounce between the beach and streets of the nearby Parte Viejawhere tapas (or pinxtos, as the Basques call them) are an elevated artform. However, don’t completely fillup on these bite-sized morsels of perfection, since San Sebastian is also home to more Michelin stars persquare meter than anywhere else on Earth… with three legendary restaurants holding the highest three-star honor: Arzak, Akelarre and Berasategui. 39 LUXURY LINK LIFESTYLE

Publisher: Luxury Link Travel Group Executive Editor: Benjamin Cariou Editor-in-Chief: Ben Alkaly Managing Editor: Zoe Bo-Linn Copy Editor: Sara Chapman Creative Director: Matthew Cogswell Contributors: Diane McDavitt, Justin Cross, Damon M. Banks, Josh Sciortino40 *The Alhambra, Granada, Spain LUXURY LINK LIFESTYLE