10 most Interesting Facts About The USA

10 Interesting Facts About The USA

10. 80% of the land in the state of Nevada is owned by the government.

The US government owns a significant portion of the land area in the US state of Nevada - 80% of it, to be exact. These lands are reserved for wildlife refuges, forests, wilderness areas, monuments, national parks, and lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management. The state's public lands range from vast deserts, deserted mining towns to isolated ranches, mountain ranges and more.

9. 100 acres of pizza are served in the United States every day!

In the US, pizza surpasses burgers as the nation's favorite fast food. According to the pizza industry trade organization in the US, about 100 acres of pizza is served every day. According to a survey done by the American Customer Satisfaction Index, Americans tend to be more satisfied by pizza than by burgers.

8. Its flag was designed by a high school student.

The current US flag features 50 stars and was designed by Robert G. Heft. Heft initially created the American flag in 1958 as the school project during his junior year in high school. Heft scored a B- in his project but was promised by Stanley Pratt, his teacher, that his grade would be reconsidered if the United States Congress was to accept the design for the flag. Heft's design was not only chosen but also adopted by the 1959 presidential proclamation.

7. Its capital was originally New York City.

Unusual as it sounds, New York was the first capital city of the US. New York City served as the nation's capital city for five years between 1785 and 1790. The city played a significant role in the establishment of a new government following the defeat of the British and the Treaty of Paris which ended the war.

6. The United States uses 18% of the world's energy.

According to the 2014 energy consumption statistics, the world total energy consumption was 539 quadrillion British Thermal Units (Btu) and the US consumed approximatelyy 98 quadrillion Btu. The amount is equivalent to about 18% of the world total energy consumption. The country's energy consumption is considered extraordinary.

5. There is no official language.

In practice, the national language of the United States is English. However, at the federal level, there is no official language, although some laws such as the US naturalization requirements institutionalize English as the language. While English is mainly spoken throughout the US, Spanish is the second most common language in the country which also happens to be the most widely taught second language.

4. At some point, 1 out of every 8 Americans will work for McDonald's.

McDonald's is among the largest employers in the country. It is believed that 1 out of every 8 Americans have been employed or will be employed at McDonald's at some point, according to the Fast Food Nation. Unsurprisingly, due to these odds, McDonald's has employed a good number of celebrities as well before they were famous.

3. Alaska has, by far, the longest coastline of any state.

The US state of Alaska has the longest coastline compared to any other state in the country. The Alaskan coastline stretches for 6,640 miles. Alaska has a shoreline of approximately 33,904 miles including islands. Together with bays, inlets, islands and sounds, the Alaskan tidal shoreline stretches for 47, 300 miles.

2. The United States invented the internet.

The history of the internet dates back to the 1950s when electronic computers were being developed. During the early 1960s, the US Department of Defense granted contracts for packet network systems. ARPANET was the first switching network to be developed.

1. It has the biggest economy in the world.

The United States has the largest economy in the world. The nation's economy accounts for about 25% of the world's nominal GDP. The economy in the US is attributed to the country's large population, high average incomes, a relatively young population, moderate unemployment, technological innovation, and a high consumer spending.

Thugs of Hindostan.looking back on how Aamir Khan's

Thugs of Hindostan

Diwali hasn’t been particularly lucky for Aamir Khan. He has had three releases on the festival so far – Andaz Apna Apna, Raja Hindustani and Secret Superstar. Only one of these was a proper box-office hit.

With Thugs of Hindostan, Aamir Khan is all ready to set off fireworks at the box-office this Diwali. The mega action entertainer, also starring Amitabh Bachchan, Katrina Kaif and Fatima Sana Shaikh in the lead roles, has astounding buzz surrounding its release and there is no doubt that the film will open with phenonemal numbers – most film trade analysts across the country have predicted an opening of Rs 50 crore for the Vijay Krishna Acharya directorial.

But if you go back in the past, Diwali hasn’t been particularly lucky for Aamir. The superstar has had three releases on the festival so far – Andaz Apna Apna (1994), Raja Hindustani(1996) and Secret Superstar (2017).

While Andaz Apna Apna, with lifetime collection of Rs 5.29 crore, was a box-office flop, Raja Hindustani, with total earnings of Rs 43.14 crore, was an all-time blockbuster. Secret Superstar, that did not have Aamir at the center of the story and featured him in an extended cameo appearance, went on to amass Rs 62.63 crore. Its box-office performance was termed above average by the trade pundits.

With Thugs of Hindostan, however, the dynamics are different. It is releasing in times when Aamir is considered a hit machine at the box-office. Most of his movies released in the recent years have become box-office blockbusters. In fact, it is Aamir who holds the record of having the highest-grossing Hindi film ever, Dangal, that made a staggering Rs 387 crore in its lifetime run. (Box office: Will Thugs of Hindostan dethrone Krrish 3 to become the biggest Diwali success ever?)

Actor Aamir Khan is widely referred to as a perfectionist who goes to all extremes to deliver committed performances. And what makes him worthy of such a title is his unbreakable series of hit films which he has delivered in the last eighteen years, with not a single miss. The last time Aamir failed to deliver a superhit was in 2000, when his film Mela tanked at the box office and made the female lead Twinkle Khanna bid adieu to acting. He still dominates the list of the highest-grossing Bollywood stars, ahead of Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan, with his latest big releases, Dangal and PK claiming the top slots. Talking about the effort that goes into his roles, the actor has pushed his limits to achieve his dream time and again.

It was no joke for a 44-year-old to play an 18-year old in 3 Idiots but Aamir pulled it off better than a youngster could. From learning swimming for the 2012 film Talaash to picking up Haryanvi for Dangal and Bhojpuri for PK, the actor continues to acquire new skills with every project. The actor didn’t blink at all (literally) while playing an alien in PK and can be seen talking and eating with his eyes wide open. Aamir, however, continues to feel insecure and is afraid of losing his creative abilities one day, according to an interview with Anupama Chopra and Rajeev Masand on the radio show Take 1.

The actor left his fans bewildered when he displayed a permanent nose-piercing while working on his 2018 Diwali release, Thugs of Hindostan. He is no Zayn Malik, but simply an Indian male actor who didn’t mind going the distance for a role. The actor plays Firangi Mallah in the film – a thug with no ethics, ready to lick the feet of the one who pays.

During the making of Dangal, Aamir had opted to shoot as the middle aged Mahavir Phogat first, in order to have a purpose for losing the weight later to play the younger version. The actor left his fans worried with his hefty look as he walked around with a towel to deal with the sweating. Though he had a ball while gorging on street food to gain the weight, the actor could be seen panting while shooting the wrestling scenes as the extra kilos slowed him down. The bigger cause for concern was his weight fluctuation from a middle-aged retired wrestler standing at 97 kilos with 38% body fat to an active wrestler in his twenties. The actor himself confessed that this was a risk which could have cost him much more than just the film’s collections. He managed to lose it all within five months to play the younger version and flaunted six pack abs by reducing his body fat to just 9.67%.

At the age of 47, the father of three trained in tap dancing under Australian dance choreographer Dein Perry for the film Dhoom 3. An Irish dance form that takes several years to master, the actor nailed a manageable version in just a month. Aamir’s two-and-a-half minute intense tap number speaks for itself in Dhoom 3 and can leave you in awe every time you watch it.

Zero will be released at the 2 November

Zero Trailer Release Is Shah Rukh Khan's Birthday Surprise For Fans

Shah Rukh Khan has a birthday surprised 

lined-up for his fans and it's the best thing ever! The much-awaited trailer of Shah Rukh Khan's December release Zero will be unveiled on the superstar's birthday in a big fat event. On Friday, the trailer of Zero will be released at the IMAX in Mumbai's Wadala, tweeted trade analyst Taran Adarsh. "Shah Rukh Khan and Aanand L Rai will launch Zero trailer at IMAX Wadala [Mumbai] on SRK's birthday [2 Nov]," he tweeted. In his tweet, Mr Adarsh added that the makers are recreating a Meerut like-setting as part of the film is set in the city: "The makers are recreating Meerut at the venue, since a portion of the film is filmed in Meerut," he tweeted

Meanwhile, some industry insiders have already enjoyed a special screening of the Zerotrailer, which includes Taran Adarsh, who tweeted a review of it: "Watched Zero trailer [3.13 minutes]... Get ready to be surprised big time... SRK, Anushka, Katrina - the characters will catch you unawares... Aanand L Rai is synonymous with emotional films and there's a strong undercurrent of emotions on display here," he wrote.

In it not unknown that Shah Rukh Khan co-stars with Katrina Kaif and Anushka Sharma in the Aanand L Rai-directed movie. While Shah Rukh has been cast as Bauua Singh - a vertically chShah Rukh Khan's Mumbai residence Mannat is already being prepped with lights for the superstar's birthday. Thousands of fans gather outside Mannat to catch a glimpse of the actor on his birthday. This is what he tweeted on Wednesday:allenged character - it is speculated that Katrina may be seen as an alcoholic star while Anushka will portray a genius scientist. Salman Khan also has a cameo in Zero, a glimpse of which was in the Eid-special teaser of the film.

Meanwhile, Zero will also release in China, which is known to have a huge audience for Aamir Khan's films.

Inside Robert Redford's NZ Paradise While Filming Disney's Pete's Dragon

A short helicopter flight west from Tapanui is a place called Paradise, so it's no surprise that Mr. Redford elected to enjoy a luxury escape here with his family:

• The best way to reach a luxury resort in Paradise is by air, and Redford and family were transferred to Wyuna House by Glacier Southern Lakes Helicopters who also filmed the aerial sequences for Disney's Pete's Dragon. Their scenic flight took in the wider Southern Lakes region across jagged peaks, mountain glaciers and Milford Sound's dramatic waterfalls;


• Immersed in a landscape that has captured the eye of many filmmakers, Wyuna Houseis a luxury villa set in a private natural reserve. Perched above the northern end of Lake Wakatipu, the schist and timber lodge has been designed to blend harmoniously into its beautiful alpine setting;


• Just across the road from Wyuna House, the Redford family dined at New Zealand's celebrated Blanket Bay Lodge. The 13-room lodge has panoramic lake views and an award-winning kitchen– both of which have helped gain many awards, including being named as the 'World's Ultimate Escape' by the UK Sunday Times Magazine;


• The region is one of New Zealand's most popular destinations for hikers and nature lovers, with more than 19 day walks to explore. The Redford family went on several local trails including the Diamond Creek walk.

Quintessentially Offers Members Unique Experience to Meet Pope Francis

In-line with the growing trend of experiential luxury among affluent consumers, the award winning concierge and lifestyle management service is going above and beyond, even offering its Members a chance to meet the Pope. 

On August 31st, 2016, a special meeting with Pope Francis himself has been arranged for Members, right before his address in St Peter's Square during the Killerspin World UnPlugNPlay Festival at the Vatican. Time with the world leader also includes a private tour of the Vatican and Sistine Chapel followed by cocktails and dinner at the Connect21 Ping Pong Diplomacy event. The unique program will be followed by a luxury stay at the world class, Forte Village Resort in Sardinia. 

“Experiential consumption is continuing to grow among the wealthy set and we are seeing more and more requests from our HNW Members that go beyond just owning a luxury product,” said Aaron Simpson, Co-Founder & Group Executive Chairman, Quintessentially Group. “This affluent group want to experience something different while still enjoying it in the utmost luxury way, so our unique connections and unrivalled insider knowledge put us in the best position to deliver this,” he continued. 

Additional examples of unique experiences that Quintessentially has arranged include exclusive access to the 2016 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show as well as one of the world's most prestigious super car events – the Run to Monaco 2016. A pop-up dining series with celebrity chefs in Hong Kong is also available as well as on-going adventure and once-in-a lifetime travel opportunities - including trips to Iceland to enjoy glacier hiking and volcano visits, scenic floatplane flights over icebergs in Alaska, and desert island hideaways in the Maldives to name a few. 

Giving Members both the gift of time and access, a Quintessentially Lifestyle Membership paves the way to privileges that money simply can't buy. No request is too big or too small for the company's team of lifestyle specialists enabling everything from everyday needs to life's defining moments.

Visit website: www.quintessentially.com

New York's Iconic Russian Tea Room Wows Guests

Each year more than 60 million travelers visit New York City to see such iconic landmarks as the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, Times Square, Central Park or hundreds of other attractions. Visitors should add the Russian Tea Room to this list.

For over 80 years the Russian Tea Room has been a favorite respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. One of the world's most celebrated restaurants, the tea room is a fixture of celebrity and style, making it a unique New York event venue. Located at W. 57th Street near the southern tip of Central Park, the restaurant’s location serves as a magnet for scores of tourists and locals alike.

Known worldwide for its eye popping ambiance, its radiant décor is dominated by red leather banquets, a 24-carat gold ceiling, striking bronze samovars and priceless works of art that adorn the walls. The Russian Tea Room is more than a setting for tea. It is a New York City experience that never falls to amaze and impress from the moment you arrive until your last sip of tea.

Afternoon tea at the Russian Tea Room is an idyllic way to socialize – and perhaps spot a few celebrities -- before attending a Broadway play. Since being founded in 1927 by the Russian Imperial Ballet, the Russian Tea Room has been an exclusive enclave where actors, writers and politicians gather. Closed in 2002 for renovation and a makeover, it reopened in 2006 to much fanfare.

As you walk through the antique revolving doors, let your imagination wander and you can see Dustin Hoffman sitting in the booth where they filmed “Tootsie” or you can hear Madonna conserving with patrons from the coat room where she worked before finding fame. The cast of “Gossip Girl” filmed a scene sipping martinis and included several of the staff as extras.

Nowhere throughout a city that features renowned restaurants around every corner will you find such attentive, yet non-discreet service. Waiters dressed in double-breasted black coats with tails and gold buttons are at your beckon call should you desire another serving of piping hot tea or an extra buttery scone that was prepared in-house earlier in the day.

The Afternoon Tea menu features a brisk English breakfast, Indian black tea, a delicate Formosa Oolong, and Rooibos Chai, which is a South African Red Bush with Indian spices. Scrumptious sandwiches and Blinis are offered, such as caviar, Siberian Osetra, Russian Osetra, Hackleback and Paddlefish. Guests can choose from a variety of decadent desserts, including assorted seasonal scones, petits fours and a red velvet cupcake with luscious cream cheese icing that is so rich it deserves its own tax bracket.

Although widely recognized as one of the most exquisite tea rooms in the world, the Russian Tea Room also features extensive menus for brunch, lunch and dinner. Brunch patrons can indulge themselves on an assortment of pastries, a smoked salmon platter, a truffle quiche with bacon, leeks, black truffle and cheese and a caviar omelette. Lunch includes a traditional Tea Room Red Borscht with pickled red beets, seasonal vegetables and dill in a short rib and bacon broth, served with a braised beef pirozhok or boiled potato. Dinner is to be savored with such offerings as a delectable lobster salad appetizer with butter poached lobster with morel mushrooms, white and green asparagus, frisee and black truffle vinaigrette. Follow this with a Kulebiaka entrée of salmon with slow cooked onions, mushrooms and vegetables wrapped in pastry, served with Brussels sprouts, peas, fava beans and baby leeks. This being the Russian Tea Room, no visit would be complete without sampling one of the 40 varieties of vodka that are available.

New York City bursts at the seams with history and grandeur for tourists who crowd the city virtually every day of the year. The Russian Tea Room is an historical gem that provides a serene, genteel atmosphere for anyone desiring a slice of refinement.

Four Seasons Hotel Singapore Unveils Renovated Suites

Four Seasons Hotel Singapore has completed its recent room renewal program with the revelation of its crowning jewels – The Suite Collection.

Together with the rest of the guest rooms and suites, the renovation began in early July 2018, led by the interior designers Hirsch Bedner Associates, who led the renovations of the Jiang-Nan Chun restaurant in 2016 and the opening of the Hotel in 1994.

Comprising four distinctive residences – the Royal Suite, Governor Suite, Ambassador Suite and the Presidential Suite – the suites artfully unfurl Singapore’s legacy through thoughtful use of key motifs, textures and color palettes to create intentional, ambient design that portrays and acknowledges Singapore as a dynamic, cosmopolitan nation with a storied history.

Royal Suite (1,615 sq. ft.)
Located on the 18th floor, the Royal Suite is inspired by the tropical splendor of nearby Singapore Botanic Gardens, a lush UNESCO World Heritage Site. The newly added chic open pantry and unique sofa seating unites living and dining space and is ideal for casual entertaining. Cloaked in neutrals, black and verdant green, and dressed in cane and linen textures, with local palm, fruit and animal motifs in artworks and accessories, the new décor reflects a relaxed and vibrant ambience.

Governor Suite (1,798 sq. ft.

In the surrounds of hand-picked, book lined walls of the privileged, agreements were oft sealed with a simple gentlemen’s handshake and a toast of brandy and a glass of whiskey. Ensconced in exclusivity on the top guest room floor of Four Seasons Hotel Singapore and generously sized, the Governor Suite features pear wood millwork offset with stylish contemporary furnishings in smoky light grey, dark wood detailing and amber tones for a smart, stately ambience with a panoramic boulevard view.

Ambassador Suite (1,798 sq. ft.)
As colorful and rich as the intricate designs of the kamchen pottery featured in-suite, the Peranakan culture is a unique heritage that blossomed since the 15th Century as a result of inter-marriages between the local Straits community with non-Straits descendants, when Singapore was a major trading port. This cultivated a beautiful cross-cultural appreciation in Singapore, evident through distinctive art styles, fashion, language and recipes. Accented with existing Straits Chinese elements through chic modern furniture in a turquoise, grey and dusty rose scheme, the suite is located on the 19th floor and exudes a unique grace and charm.

Presidential Suite (2,131 sq. ft.)
Evoking the journey of Singapore from colonial outpost to a modern nation, the largest suite at the Four Seasons Hotel Singapore - the Presidential Suite - is eloquently showcased through contrasts of black and white, symbolic of old news footage and photos, with accents of gold, symbolic of its hopes and prosperity. Inspired by the grand colonial houses that are till today, still standing proud on the island, the suite located on the 19th floor offers a breath-taking view of the city skyline and is appointed with sleek contemporary furniture in a black, white and persimmon scheme that complements the existing pear wood millwork and black marble floor.

The Room Renewal Programme

With a total of 255 guest rooms inclusive of these four themed suites, the wide range of accommodation options are crafted to welcome the Hotel’s clientele. From families to business travelers, guests will be immersed in sophisticated comfort and plush interiors. All rooms and suites also boast large floor-to-ceiling windows providing sweeping views of the city and surrounding greenery, brightening up the rooms with plenty of natural light. Just steps from the city’s shopping and commercial heart, the Hotel provides convenient access to the Central Business District and main tourist attractions.

In addition to the Hotel’s exquisitely renovated rooms, guests can unwind with an ultimate in restorative experiences in the Four Seasons Spa, featuring treatments such as the Néroli & Orchidée, a rejuvenating scrub and massage performed by one of the Hotel’s skilled therapists. This treatment and range of lotions, massage oils and scrubs can only be found at our spa, in Singapore.

The dining options at the Hotel include the One Michelin-Starred Jiang-Nan Chun, renovated in 2016 and led by Chinese Executive Chef Tim Lam. An experience at this fine-dining restaurant indulges the senses in the beauty of Jiang Nan, the paradise-like region of southern China, through elegant interiors, evocative furnishings and authentic Cantonese cuisine. Using only the freshest ingredients with an emphasis on classic culinary techniques, signatures at the restaurant include Mesquite Wood-roasted Peking Duck served with Caviar, double-boiled soups and intricate, handcrafted dim sum.

Western and Asian cuisine, including popular Singaporean favorites take center stage at One-Ninety Restaurant in an open dining concept, complete with a theatre kitchen and chef’s table. Watch the chefs weave their culinary magic with à la minute preparations over apple wood fired grills, a brick pizza oven and tandoor oven.

Take a cocktail journey or indulge in artisanal spirits at the One-Ninety Bar within its stylish lounge interior or on the resort-style alfresco Terazza amidst lush foliage as head bartender, Joseph Haywood concocts fascinating cocktails and classics that impress.

The Hotel also boasts an array of leisure facilities for business travelers, families and couples alike. Guests are invited to lounge by the rooftop pool on the 20th floor offering panoramic views of the skyline, or hone their skills on one of the four indoor and outdoor tennis courts, a unique distinction of the hotel as well as a 24-hour fitness center.

For meetings and conferences, Four Seasons Hotel Singapore has over 1,500sqm of thoughtfully designed meeting space, all of which recently underwent a refurbishment in 2016. The Ballroom features picturesque arched windows with plenty of natural light, and two penthouse function rooms on the 20th floor offer expansive views of the city, along with individual private patios – a spectacular setting for meetings and events.

To experience the Four Seasons Hotel Singapore, visit the website to book online or call (65) 6734 1110.

For New Yorkers, the renovation is perfectly timed to Singapore Airlines’ recently launched non-stop service between Singapore and New York.

Seattle’s Most Iconic Hotel, The Edgewater Unveils Festive Fall Experiences

The Edgewater, the iconic Noble House Hotel located on the Seattle waterfront, is offering its new festive experiences, the Game On! package and the Free Falling package, in celebration of fall and this year’s football season.   In addition, the hotel’s award-winning restaurant, Six Seven will also be offering a decadent pre-fixe Thanksgiving Day dinner for those guests who want to spend the day out of the kitchen.  Just voted one of Seattle’s best hotels by Condé Nast Traveler’s 2018 Readers’ Choice Awards, The Edgewater offers the quintessential Seattle experience designed to embrace every season.

With football season in full swing, the hotel’s Game On! package invites guests to the spirited experience that includes upscale overnight accommodations in either a city-side or water-side room to cheer on their team in luxurious fashion, overnight valet parking for one vehicle, choice of two appetizers and two libations in Six Seven Lounge for guests’ tailgating needs, and a delicious breakfast or brunch for two in Six Seven Restaurant with unobstructed views of Elliott Bay and the Olympic Mountains.  The Game On! package is valid through December 30, 2018.

The Free Falling package invites guests of The Edgewater to experience the wonder of autumn in Seattle.  After a day of exploring the city in the brisk fall weather, guests can retreat back to their rooms and cozy up by their own in-room fireplace.  In addition to luxurious overnight accommodations, the Free Falling package includes lodge breakfast for two in Six Seven, a waived amenity fee, and $25 hotel credit towards whatever is desired by the guest during the stay.  The Free Falling package is available and valid for travel through November 30, 2018.

Six Seven’s Thanksgiving Day pre-fixe menu will feature seasonal and traditional dishes such as Foraged Mushroom Risotto, Butternut Squash & Apple Bisque, Roasted Turkey, Pumpkin Pie, and much more. The complete menu can be found here, http://www.noblehousemenus.com/67_thanksgiving.pdf.  The festive dishes will be served exclusively on Thanksgiving Day, November 22nd from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., for $80 per adult.

Looking for a winter getaway the whole family will love?

For some, the mere thought of chasing away winter blues by spending a week sailing on a private yacht is a mini-vacation in itself. But for a family, the idea of bringing children on a yacht sometimes gives parents pause. What if they get bored and pace the decks? What if they need to be constantly supervised?

Oceanscape Yachts tackles the question: Is a trip on a luxury yacht really a family holiday for all ages?

Well, that really depends on whether you can see your children enjoying swimming with dolphins or snorkeling over colorful reefs teeming with life.

It depends  if your kids might like wakeboarding, racing about on jet skis or being pulled behind the yacht’s tender in an inflatable banana, screaming their heads off.

It depends on whether they might have fun following a treasure hunt set up on the yacht, quad biking on a Greek island, or jumping off the yacht into the sparkling sea.

It depends if you think your children might like catching fish from the swim platform at night, dangling their feet in the water and seeing the fish swim about in the yacht’s glowing underwater lights.

If they’d enjoy midnight swims and picnics on the beach, or chatting to the captain on the bridge as he drives the yacht through the darkness to the next exciting destination.

Or maybe you can see your kids spending lazy evenings in front of the yacht’s giant televisions in the sky lounge, eating popcorn and watching movies; the whole family enjoying their time together.

It depends on whether you think they’d like seeing new places- kayaking through icebergs in Alaska, scuba diving in Australia, watching celebrities on the red carpet in France. Exploring shipwrecks in Malta and underwater caves in Italy, or watching whales in New Zealand and  giant turtles in the Galapagos.

Not all kids are active, and that’s fine too- the yacht’s cabins are spacious and the yacht has every entertainment system and comforts there ready for them. (We all know that sometimes no amount of cajoling can get the kids away from the TV or Playstation, no matter what manner of adventure awaits outside.)

Babies and toddlers are in an extremely safe environment too- safety is the prime concern on all yachts, at all times, with all guests. The high crew to guest ratio on luxury yachts ensures that someone will always be watching any kids on deck or in the water. Yachting is a very safe pastime for children of all ages.

So is a yacht charter really a holiday for families of all ages? The answer is yes, absolutely. A luxury yacht charter affords kids a mix of adventure, excitement, relaxation and new experiences—all in a very safe and tremendously comfortable environment.

If you can imagine your family enjoying a vacation like that, then OceanScape Yachts would like to give you $500 toward your first trip. Just sign up for a free membership and you’ll receive a voucher for $500 worth of the food and drinks your family loves.

Of course, there are a few things that are helpful to know about taking your children on a yacht in order to prepare them (and you) for the holiday of a lifetime.

For your first yachting holiday, try to decide on an itinerary where there are not long passages between destinations. Some active kids may get bored if they can’t swim and run about for long periods, so pick a destination where there are lots of islands or destinations in short cruises from each other. OceanScape Yachts can advise of some great child-friendly itineraries.

Luxury yachts have sophisticated entertainment systems. Find out which movies and games are on board- the yacht will have a list they can send through. You can generally make requests for the yacht to purchase certain materials (at a cost to you), or bring your own. Yachts all have wifi now, but do be aware that it is generally slower than on land, and can be very slow in remote cruising regions. If your family does a lot of streaming and has high internet usage, then make sure to enquire about download speeds before chartering to avoid sullen teenagers!

Be aware that crew are there to supervise your children and entertain them to some extent, but are not employed as babysitters. If you have young children, some yacht charter contracts will insist you bring a nanny or carer with you to ensure that the crew are not pulled away from their busy schedule. It is reasonable to expect that the deck crew will spend all available hours with your children doing watersports, as that is part of the service, while normally a treasure hunt and a few activities are factored into the stewardess’ schedule. However, it’s not normally acceptable to go out to dinner ashore each evening, leaving your children in the crew’s care. Find out from your Member Ambassador  and captain what is considered acceptable when it comes to childcare responsibilities.

They will also be able to suggest great activities for your kids in the local area—use them to tailor the best possible experiences for your children.

The most wonderful thing about a family yacht charter on a luxury superyacht is the memories you’ll create together. The yacht, captain and crew are all there to provide your family with the most extraordinary experience of your life, no matter your age.

OceanScape Yachts is the world’s first vacation club dedicated to bringing the unparalleled experience of yachting to families just like yours. If you’re looking for a vacation your whole family will love this winter, stop by and claim your $500 voucher.

Sip & Savor the Fall Season at Mountain Shadows, Scottsdale

Mountain Shadows will be hosting an October and November Sunday Supper Club at Hearth ’61 with flavorful fall pairings.

Join Executive Chef Charles Wiley on October 21st for Sunday Supper Club, where he will collaborate with Revelry Vintners, a boutique winery creating elegant wines that reflect the viticulture & dynamic quality of Washington State's Columbia Valley. The simply delightful evening of sipping and savoring begins at 6 p.m.

Next on the winery tour is Van Duzer Vineyards on November 18. Specializing in Pinot Noir, Van Duzer is a family-owned and thoughtful winemaking destination.

Malts and Masalas at Armani Hotel Dubai

Since April 2018, Dubai has held the new world record for the most expensive whisky ever sold: Two magnificent bottles of The Macallan 1926 Scotch for $1.2 million.  Who would have thought that Dubai was home to some of the finest whiskies… and that they could complement some of the world’s finest Indian cuisine so well?

Armani Hotel Dubai is delighted to introduce its new Malts and Masalas dining experience, a must for whisky and fine dining aficionados.

From the four corners of Scotland to India’s valleys, mountains and oceans, experience the ultimate pairing of the finest blended Scotch with an exciting menu of authentic, tongue tingling dishes at award-winning Armani/Amal.  Take a sensory journey across India with our three-course Saffron menu, which features a choice of five starters, selection of five sharing main course dishes and favorite final indulgence from a trio of desserts.

An evening of exceptional regional flavors is guaranteed, paired with a different iconic hand-selected blend for each course.

Malts and Masalas at Armani/Amal, Armani Hotel Dubai is available between 15 October - 20 December 2018 from 7pm - 11pm daily.  Malts and Masalas costs AED 690 (approx. £141) per person with pairing beverages.  Rooms at Armani Hotel Dubai start from 2,200 AED per room per night (approx. £464) subject to 10% municipality fee and 10% service charge.  The rate is also subject to tourism Dirham fee of AED 20 per room per night. 

For more information and to book: www.armanihoteldubai.com; 00971 4888 3666

Unique Culinary Experiences at Small Luxury Hotels of the World

To coincide with the release of Small Luxury Hotels of the World’s new cookbook, SLH has identified some of the best culinary experiences at its member hotels including out-of-this-world dining locations, memorable sensory experiences, creative menus and rare ingredients for your consideration.

Pop-up Restaurant on a Sandbank at Baros Maldives, Male, Maldives
www.slh.com/baros

The novel concept of dining in a pop up restaurant takes on a new dimension at Baros Maldives with a pop up restaurant located on a secluded sandbank outside the resort’s lagoon in the Indian Ocean. Guests are taken to the sandbank by boat to be greeted with a glass of champagne in time to watch a magnificent sunset. Seven chefs are on hand to prepare guests’ choices from the a la carte menu of a Maldivian, Mediterranean or Tandoori Seafood Platter for two, or a Mixed Grill Platter of Foie Gras, Beef, Lamb and Chicken. There is also a Salad Bar and a Sushi and Sashimi Station.

Full Moon Themed Dinners at Columbia Beach Resort - Limassol, Cyprus
www.slh.com/columbiapissouri

Nestled on Pissouri Bay, Columbia Beach Resort hosts a series of themed Full Moon dinners on the beach every summer. From Vintage Moon, Pink Moon, Harvest Moon to Sturgeon Moon, the resort’s chef, Ioannis Giakoumidis creates a delectable multi-course menu reflective of the one-night-only theme with matching décor and music.

Mood Dining Menus at Milhaidoo Island Maldives - Baa Atoll, Maldives
www.slh.com/milaidhoo

At Milaidhoo Island Maldives, the resort offers five different curated mood dining menus paired with wellness treatments including special baths, meditation and spa treatments to transport guests into a state of Zen. Called ‘Deep Sleep’, ‘Getting into the Milaidhoo Mood’, ‘Sunrise Awakening’, ‘Curious Adventures’ and ‘Sunset Chill’, each menu is offered at a specific location on the island, which has been designed to change a person’s mood. The most popular option to date is the ‘Deep Sleep’ mood, which addresses both physical and mental hurdles that prevent a good night’s sleep. It begins with a peaceful spa treatment followed by a light dinner served in the guest’s villa with a menu designed to encourage sleep. After the dinner, Milaidhoo’s resident yogi leads the guests in a private moonlight meditation session on the deck of their villa to calm and slow the mind. The evening ends with a scented candlelit bath as the drop in body temperature after a bath triggers the body’s need to sleep.

Plant-based Dining at Ovolo Woolloomooloo, Sydney, Australia
www.slh.com/ovolo

Opened in March 2018 by vegan chef Matthew Kenney, Alibi at Ovolo Woolloomoloo is Sydney´s first plant-based restaurant featuring dishes such as kimchi dumplings with sesame and ginger, heirloom tomato and zucchini lasagna with pistachio pesto and hibiscus strawberry cheesecake. The cocktail menu includes an Enchanted Forest cocktail that took the Alibi bar team eight months to create involving an infusion of fresh Portobello mushrooms and absinthe foam made from green apples.

Dinner in the Sahara Desert at Dar Ahlam, Ouarzazate, Morocco
www.slh.com/darahlam

Dar Ahlam in Ouarzazate can customise and serve meals to guests choosing from a selection of distinct, private settings to ensure they never dine in the same place twice and no meal is ever the same. One of the settings available to guests is an intimate candlelit dinner for two in the Sahara Desert where guests can watch the beautiful scenery and the canopy of stars surrounding them from atop a sand dune. Meals are curated from 450 gourmet recipes created by the likes of Frédérick Grasser-Hermé, Philippe Conticini, Frédéric Eyrier, Cédric Nieuvarts and Thierry Alix, with desserts by the incomparable Pierre Hermé. Guests are led to dinner by their waiters and a path of lanterns dotted along the sand before joining their table located next to a roaring fire pit. After dinner, guests can sleep in a canvas tent featuring African reed mats, Berber cushions and vintage camp decor, plus an en-suite bathroom with toilet, mirror and sink.

A Taste of Ancient Greece at Archipelagos, Mykonos, Greece
www.slh.com/archipelagos

Guests at the Archipelagos can experience a true taste of mythological Greece with the restaurant´s Gastrosophy degustation menu (six to nine courses) created by Chef Dimitris Papadimitriou where ancient ingredients such as Vrasto cheese, Centaurea (form of artichoke), Crithmum (sea fennel) and Crocus Sativus (an ancient spice valued for its aphrodisiac properties) are blended into modern recipes. Each dish is paired with exceptional wines made from ancient Greek varieties to ensure guests are transported back in time.

Dinner in an Archaeological Site at Relais San Lorenzo, Bergamo, Italy
www.slh.com/sanlorenzo

Housed in the oldest part of Relais San Lorenzo, the hotel’s Hostaria restaurant is located within an archaeological site of Roman and Medieval origins dating from 300BC, including walls and wells from the Middle Ages. The historical building provides a pleasant contrast to Chef Antonio Cuomo’s modern cuisine which is well-rooted in the traditional flavours of the Bergamo tradition and includes specialty dishes such as homemade ravioli prepared with melted butter, salvia and crispy bacon.

Bespoke Menus at Foxhill Manor, Farncombe Estate, United Kingdom
www.slh.com/foxhill

Foxhill Manor´s motto is “whatever you fancy, wherever you fancy it”. Guests are greeted by Michelin-starred chef Matt Weedon on arrival so they can provide him with exact details on how they want their meal to be cooked even down to how they want their vegetables sliced. They can also access the cellar to select their own wine and enjoy their meal anywhere from the bath to the cinema room. Guests are also encouraged to pop in the kitchen at any time to ask the head chef to rustle up a bespoke menu for them.

Maya Inspired Cooking Classes at Ka’ana Resort, San Ignacio, Belize
www.slh.com/kaanabelize

Guests at Ka’ana Resort in San Ignacio, Belize, can learn to prepare classic Maya dishes like tamales, corn tortillas and caldo using the forgon, an authentic Maya stove. Classes are followed by a Maya-themed dinner hosted in an authentic Belizean kitchen.

Luxury Cruise with Private Chef at Hulbert House, Queenstown, New Zealand
www.slh.com/hulbert

Available to guests at Hulbert House in New Zealand, the ‘Milford Sound Luxury Day Cruise’ brings travellers into the heart of Fiordland by helicopter before they board a luxurious cruise with on-deck hot-tubs where they can enjoy a delightful seafood lunch prepared by a private chef with crayfish, blue cod, bluff oysters. After lunch, guests can use the ROV to view the unique underwater creatures of the fiord or enjoy some kayaking to get up close to the many waterfalls pouring off the towering sea cliffs.

Avocado-Mania at Casa Velas, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
www.slh.com/casavelas/

Casa Velas in Mexico is celebrating all thing avocado with a month-long festival (1st September -30th September 2018) capitalising on the flavour and nutritional value of this famed fruit with new menu items and avocado-inspired cocktails. Guests can order avocado smoothies and avocado popsicles near the pool area or enjoy a special menu of avocado topped pizzas and sashimi, avocado gazpacho, avocado burgers and delicious macaroons filled with avocado cream. An avocado specialist is even on-hand to share the fruit’s history and deep tradition as well as teach on-site classes on how best to incorporate avocado in recipes at home. While the festival experience is slated for September, guests who come through Dec. 31 can still indulge in special avocado dishes and cocktails on request.

Vegetal Lunch at Les Sources de Caudalie, Bordeaux, France
www.slh.com/caudalie

Once per month, guests at Les Sources de Caudalie can enjoy a guided walk through the forest with arborist José Le Piez and musician Patricia Chatelain who use meditation techniques such as Shinrin –Yoku (Japanese style therapy known as tree hugging) to help visitors connect with nature. The immersive experience is followed by a vegetal lunch at the hotel’s ROUGE restaurant featuring dishes made of local flowers and plants including nettle soup with wild daisy and strawberry gazpacho with Immortelle flower ice cream.

Japanese Sweets at The Tokyo Station Hotel, Tokyo, Japan
www.slh.com/tokyostation

The Tokyo Station Hotel houses the Café and Shop Toraya Tokyo part of the Toraya brand which is a famous Japanese confectionery dating back from the 16th century. Guests can purchase Wagashi (artistic Japanese confections made of azuki bean paste) with hotel original designed package from the shop or indulge in a full menu of Japanese desserts in the cafe including the Earl Grey Manju, a steamed bun containing Earl Grey tea or the Pear Caramel Yokan, a thick and jellied dessert made of red azuki beans, homemade caramel and brandy-accented pear compote. Guests with a sweet tooth will love the Chilled Bean Soup sweetened with wasambon sugar and topped with shiratama dumplings or the Azuki & Cacao Fondant combining smooth azuki bean paste and chocolate, with hints of cinnamon and port wine.

Visit a Fjord Farm at Storfjord Hotel, Skodje, Norway
www.slh.com/storfjord

Guests staying at the Storfjord Hotel can enjoy panoramic views of Storfjorden, one of the largest fjords in Norway and the Sunnmore Alps combining majestic mountains, alpine rock formations and lakes swarming with fish. They can also visit a local fjord farm where they’ll be able to taste food which has been hunted, fished and harvested from the surrounding woods and mountains and prepared using traditional techniques. The visit also includes a lesson in traditional Norwegian baking taking place in the farm’s old bakery where guests can try their hands at making Norwegian flatbread, Nonsvik Lefse (potato pancake) or traditional Water Kringle (butter-layered pastries).

Picnic in The Park with Private Butler at DUKES London, London, United Kingdom
www.slh.com/dukeslondon

Guests at DUKES London can enjoy a picnic served by a butler at nearby Green Park or St James Park with a picnic basket curated by Michelin-starred chef Nigel Mendham and packed with traditional treats including sweet potato scotch eggs with goat’s cheese and caramelised onion, baked avocado quiche with cashew blue cheese, artisan cheese paired with scrummy chutneys and lemon posset with roasted hazelnut granola. There is also a children’s menu for little ones including pigs in blankets, homemade crisps and a gluttonous strawberry trifle.

Breakfast of Champions at Casas Del XVI, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
www.slh.com/casasdelxvi

Exclusive to guests at Casas del XVI, Polo fans can enjoy breakfast in the hotel’s restaurant “Casa Del Arbol” in company of the polo team La Bienvenida. After feasting on cinnamon, chocolate-chip and banana pancakes, they can enjoy a private polo lesson at the wonderful Sierra Prieta Polo Club. La Bienvenida is a Dominican polo team founded in 2012, which has achieved national and international recognition. In 2018, it won the national polo tournament of the Dominican Republic, becoming the number one team in the country.

Picnic in the Snow at Kristiania Lech, Lech Am Arlberg, Austria
www.slh.com/kristiania

The Kristiania Lech Hotel offers curated gourmet experiences such as a romantic picnic in the snow arranged by a ski valet. An Arabian-style rug adorned with soft colorful pillows, romantic candles and warm fur blankets is set up in the snowy field near the hotel so guests can enjoy Austrian delicacies, light snacks and Champagne am

Cox & Kings Reveals Details of Luxury Small Group Journeys

Fresh off announcing the launch of its new Luxury Small Group Journeys, Cox & Kings, the world's most enduring luxury travel brand, is excited to share highlights from these six new itineraries. Carefully crafted by the company's Destination Specialists and designed specifically with the U.S. luxury traveler in mind, these new tours, with guaranteed departures, offer the same immersive experiences, exclusive access, and high service standards for which the company is known.

Journey highlights to these initial six luxury group destinations - Peru, Morocco, Japan, China, South Africa and India - are detailed below. This is only a preview of destinations to come, as 2019 will see new product launches in Europe, Southeast Asia, South America and beyond, including departures scheduled through 2020:

• Explore the treasures of Peru on the Land of the Incas group journey. This nine-day itinerary includes tours of Lima and Machu Picchu, unique dining experiences such as an alfresco lunchoverlooking the breathtaking Huaypo Lagoon, and learning to cook a traditional Peruvian dish from Andean locals. Travelers will also see the picturesque salt flats of Maras and ride aboard the luxurious Belmond Hiram Bingham train, en route to Machu Picchu. Departure dates from December 2018 through October 2019. Prices begin at $5,295 per person.
• Perfect for culture and history buffs, the Majestic Morocco group journey takes in the country's major cities of Rabat, Fez, Casablanca and Marrakesh. Travelers explore historic and exquisite architectural landmarks, from Roman ruins to palaces, mosques, and riads built by sultans. During this nine-day itinerary, travelers will stroll through vibrant medinas, visit the country's oldest wine estate for an intimate tasting, and enjoy immersive experiences, such as a traditional tea ceremony and baking bread with a local family. Departure dates from December 2018 through October 2019. Prices begin at $6,995 per person.

• Take in the beauty of Japan during the Traditions and Temples group journey, highlighting the country's stunning landscapes, classic architecture and time-honored way of life. For 10 days, travelers will engage in Japanese traditions and culture by savoring the cuisine of local chefs and interacting with interesting locals, from artisans to sumo wrestlers. They will also have the unique opportunity to experience the art of sushi making and a stroll through stunning bamboo gardens. Departure dates from March 2019 through October 2019. Prices begin at $11,395 per person.

• The 13-day Grand Circuit of China group journey brings travelers to modern China and showcases the history of this ancient culture. From city to countryside, guests explore Beijing's Forbidden City and old alleys, the Great Wall of China and the Terracotta Warriors in Xian before heading to Chengdu to see playful pandas. Then it's off to bucolic Guilin and Yangzhou, offering stunning mountain vistas before the journey's end in cosmopolitan Shanghai. Travelers can live like a local with a private tai chi lesson from a master in Beijing and a sail down the Li River in a traditional wooden sampan. Departure dates from April 2019 through October 2019. Prices begin at $6,795 per person.

• Nature lovers can immerse themselves in the wonders of South Africa during the Wildlife and Wine 13-day group journey. Travelers will start with a tour of scenic Cape Town and the Cape Peninsula before savoring wines and gourmet cuisine in the heart of the Cape Winelands. A modern history lesson awaits in Johannesburg, with a tour of Soweto, the Apartheid Museum and vibrant neighborhood of Maboneng. Guests will then head off on a luxury safari with expert tracker guides to seek the "Big 5." The journey will end with a visit to the stunning Victoria Falls. Departure dates from January 2019 through October 2019. Prices begin at $11,595 per person.

• Cox & Kings traces its 260-year-old roots back to India, so the Iconic India group journey takes in the country's culture, cuisine, cities, celebrated monuments, and varied landscapes like none other. Over an incredible 15 days, travelers will stay in magnificent royal palaces and iconic hotels, enjoy a spiritual awakening of the mind, body and soul by the Ganges in Benares, and partake in a walking tour of cosmopolitan Mumbai. Along the way, guests are immersed in the culture with experiences such as high tea in the home of an Indian family and a visit with a traditional jeweler to view the private collection of artifacts from the royal house of the Mughals. Departure dates from January 2019 through March 2020. Prices begin at $7,275 per person.

As an extra option for clients, all journeys will are bookable online, a first for Cox & Kings, The Americas and a rarity among luxury tour providers. Group sizes will be kept small to foster intimate local encounters, with an average of just 18 guests and a maximum of 24 per departure.