Category Archives: Private Islands

THE GRENADINES - Seahorse Villa is the new, ultimate dream villa destination at the luxury, adult-oriented Palm Island Resort & Spa in The Grenadines. A fabulously positioned and totally private retreat spread over 4,000 square feet that marries divine furnishings and amenities with a simple, pared down vibe.

With sweeping views over the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea to Petit Martinique in the distance, the villa interiors have been beautifully crafted using local and recycled whitewashed woods cleverly accessorized to produce a stunning effect. Step outside and the generous space guarantees blissful lounging and secluded beachfront living.

The villa opens to a spacious hallway with locally crafted, chunky wooden furniture, set against a cool backdrop of whitewashed reclaimed wood with splashes of bold royal blues provided by the furnishings and tile work. Large wicker pendant shades set in high vaulted ceilings send out warming ambient glows. Clever details are all around. Everything feels in harmony with the interior palette mirroring the mesmerizing allure of the Caribbean colors beyond.

The standalone features in the generous sized kitchen are the breakfast bar and shelving made from salvaged ship masts, reclaimed from a shipwreck, and allowed to dry out before being artfully recycled. A homage to a bygone era of piracy. The breakfast bar is cleverly positioned to allow guests to eat breakfast whilst gazing out to the beckoning sea beyond. There are all the essentials too, a double door fridge with icemaker, a four-burner stove, a double sink, a stainless-steel dishwasher, coffee and espresso makers, toaster, full sets of cutlery, crockery, and glassware.

The spacious living and dining areas embrace the same tones and style and are perfect for guests looking to spend some evening downtime. With an elegant dining table and chairs, comfy sofas and a large screen television with a sound system and the internet. Opening the sliding doors onto the veranda allows easy options for that sunset cocktail or dining under the stars.

The two bedrooms, both with ensuite bathrooms, are similarly prepped for comfort. Super-king size beds with dramatic headboards made from recycled plastic rugs are the focal point, with other features including ceiling fans, TVs, huge walk-in closets with a small desk, a makeup table, and in- room safe. The best bit? Guests can lie back in bed and soak up those glorious ocean views through capacious sliding glass doors. Beyond the bedrooms, tiled bathrooms come with double basins, plush robes and sarongs and large walk-in showers with handsome handmade Mexican clay tiles. A stable door ingeniously allows a view of the ocean and for guests to walk out through or back in via an outdoor shower.

Guests can relax in the white picket fenced private garden with a draped day bed, sun loungers or the shadier veranda, their own private beach with those turquoise waters and white sand beyond. And as much as the villa is designed for fun and comfort, its also eminently practical. Complete with a fully equipped laundry room with plenty of storage space whilst the reflective paint on the villas exterior keeps the building cool and reduces electricity consumption - making it a beautifully arranged refuge where form magnificently meets function.

Palm Island is an adult-oriented all-inclusive resort and spa on a 135-acre private island in the Caribbeans Grenadine islands, credited with one of the finest spas in the area. Accessible only by private launch, guests enjoy genuine heartwarming hospitality, with a choice of five exquisite white sand beaches, blissfully warm turquoise waters, impressive palm trees and a lush verdant interior.

With a choice of dining in either of the two restaurants, the elegant Royal Palm and the more relaxed Sunset, or more laid-back eating and drinking in the bars and beachside, and options for secluded picnics or romantic dinners. Accommodations include stylish and supremely comfortable lodgings from Palm View rooms with garden or pool views to Beachfront rooms, to large and elegant Loft rooms and Suites. With a host of activities from a full gym to snorkeling, kayaking, Hobie cats and more, and music from local reggae bands plus the Managers weekly cocktail party.

Go here to see the original:

Palm Island Resort & Spa in The Grenadines launches new Villa - Travel Daily News International

The Row is a private, members-only metaverse real-estate community featuring virtual architecture designed by renowned artists. Jenny Southan reports

A collaboration betweenresidential real estate brokerage the Alexander Team and metaverse real-estate development firm Everyrealm, the Row will be launched on metaverse world-building platform Mona.

Janine Yorio, CEO of Everyrealm, says: The metaverse has no physics, no weather, and no limitations other than human ingenuity. The Row brings together visionary artists best known for their architectural landscapes and collectors seeking a unique, limited-edition residence that they can deploy across many different metaverses over time.

The Row will be a limited-edition series of 30 3D architectural landmarks, each sold as a 1-of-1 non-fungible token (or NFT) designed by celebrated artists including Daniel Arsham, who also serves as Everyrealms creative ambassador, Misha Kahn, Andrs Reisinger, Alexis Christodoulou, Six N. Five, and Hard.The artists will develop and build each of the Rows landmarks with the ability to be deployed across a variety of metaverse platforms within the Row district.

Membership to the Row is by invitation only and will become available once the Row has completed development later this year. Interested parties can now request an invitation on the Rows dedicated website.

Daniel Arsham says: In the metaverse, one does not need to adhere to the many constraints that exist when creating spaces, exhibitions, and art works in the physical world.When designing for the Row, I considered how my sculptures would appear from inside this unique piece of architecture. I explored the possibility of seasonality; how I might be able to alter the seasons, and how the design could remain in existence in both a daytime or a nighttime environment forever.

Im excited and eager to see how people might engage with these pieces of architecture once theyre deployed in the metaverse.The Alexander Team and Everyrealm first announced their plan to co-develop an architecturally-significant master-planned community in December 2021.

Oren Alexander of the Alexander Team says: Our clientele collects trophy real estate in the real world, and now we are enabling that same level of curation in the metaverse. The Row will be the most high-profile real-estate development across many metaverses, a series of iconic landmarks accessible on a global scale.The Alexander Team, led by brothers Oren and Tal Alexander, is the highest grossing residential real estate brokerage team in both New York City and Miami. The firm has represented celebrity clients such as Ken Griffin, the Weeknd, and Kanye West and is responsible for some of the highest-priced transactions including the largest residential sale in the US.

Everyrealm is a metaverse real-estate investment and development firm backed by Andreessen Horowitz, Coinbase, Dapper Labs, The Weeknd, Marc Anthony and Paris Hilton, among others.

Everyrealm is known for having developed Fantasy Islands, the first-ever master-planned community in the metaverse, a series of private islands that have sold for as much as US$398,000 on the secondary market. Everyrealm is led by Janine Yorio, a real-estate industry veteran who previously worked with Andre Balazs at Standard Hotels, the developer of Chateau Marmont in Los Angeles and Chiltern Firehouse in London.

Mona is a high-fidelity and high-performance metaverse world-building platform, founded to give creators, architects, 3D designers and AR/VR artists infrastructure to bring their visionary worlds to life. Led by CEO and co-founder Justin Melillo, Mona raised almost US$15 million in its oversubscribed Series A round earlier this year.

Everyrealm developed the project much the same way that traditional real-estate developers do when they build an upscale development first by assembling the digital land parcels, then overseeing the architectural design and construction process, which in this case is all digital, more like developing a video game than erecting bricks-and-mortar buildings.

The Alexander Team will lead the sales effort for this ultra-luxury master-planned community, to provide their clientele with exclusive access to the metaverse. Mona will serve as the main gallery to feature the artists works.

View post:

The Row is a members-only metaverse community - Globetrender

The sweet smell of slow-roasting pork lures me out of my overwater bungalow at the Conrad Bora Bora Nui, and as if by instinct alone, I begin making my way down the boardwalk towards the center of the resort. I feel like a cartoon character floating above the ground in a trance with his tongue hanging out, drool falling to the floor, with a thought bubble overhead depicting the animated me licking his chops as a full pig is brought over on a silver platter.

In real life, an ahimaa a traditional underground oven lined with stones and coconut leaves thats used for slow cooking foods overnight or throughout the day is being unearthed, filling the air with those rich aromas ahead of a lavish Polynesian feast and performance, and Im quite literally salivating at the prospect of the meal.

Enormous tunas have been flayed open and rejiggered with hundreds of perfect, pink slices of sashimi on display. Theres a dozen other specialties being served up from a bountiful buffet that seemingly stretches the length of the coastline, showcasing traditional Polynesian dishes as well as the full range of culinary influences found across the islands of Tahiti, where Chinese flavors and techniques blend with French fare and are juxtaposed with Japanese ingredients. (A typical breakfast spread includes omelets and crepes, but also lo mein, miso soup and sashimi.) And that suckling pig, roasted underground for five hours, is as tender as can be, its fat and skin reduced to pure gelatinous flavor, its bones pushed cleanly aside from its meat with the gentlest of touches as you prepare for a bite.

As dinner continues unfolding, the performance gets underway, a captivating experience even beyond the hypnotizing hip gyrations of the female dancers. The men are fierce and powerful, and the dances and chants and fire throwing are all spectacular, as a group of musicians sets the scene with melodic ukulele interludes between booming drum lines. Its a pitch-perfect soundtrack as the gentle lagoon waters crash on the reef in the distance, and a breeze blows through the palm trees with a near full-moon lighting up a clear, star-filled night sky.

Bora Bora is a must, but there are dozens of other islands to choose from.

Jake Emen

This may be exactly the vision youve been conjuring up as a reason to make the trip to the Tahitian islands. It doesnt hurt that Tahiti is only an eight-hour flight from the West Coast and if an eight-hour flight doesnt warrant an only in your head, keep in mind its shorter than heading to Europe from the same starting point, for instance, and that one of the destinations main competitors in the minds of American travelers is the Maldives, whose admittedly surreal beauty will take you at least three times as long to reach.

Air Tahiti Nui offers daily flights from Los Angeles and is adding nonstop service from Seattle in October. Plus, theyll help you absorb that Tahitian vibe along the way, with fragrant flowers doled out to transport you mentally even as youre physically making the trip. You can even study up on the islands and their culture with an interactive portal within your seats entertainment display, ensuring you at least know how to say hello (ia orana), thank you (muruuru) and cheers (manuia), by the time you step off the plane.

The islands of Tahiti are likely more diverse than you imagine. Tahiti itself is the main and most populous, home to about two-thirds of the total population of roughly 300,000 residents, as well as the capital city of Papeete. But French Polynesia on the whole consists of 121 islands and atolls, 75 of which are inhabited. You wont make it to most of them on a single trip, but you should definitely include a handful, and youll find that each island has a unique personality entirely its own.

While those overwater bungalows on Bora Bora may be what you or I dream about, its far from the norm. Consider the island of Raiatea, where theres now an abundance of Airbnbs and family stays, but not a single resort.

Its because of the deep wish of the people here, my guide Tara tells me. She can trace her lineage back 1,200 years on the island, and at her last family reunion she counted 289 relatives, stopping at first cousins. Living on Raiatea means you are on a piece of heaven on earth, she says. But there is no privacy, everybody knows everybody! Sounds like shes speaking from experience. She leaves me with some parting wisdom, too. Never challenge a Polynesian woman to a drinking contest. Noted.

Conrad Bora Bora Nui doesnt mess around with their fish.

Jake Emen

Learning the ins and outs of the culture and how every island offers its own take on tourism is essential during a trip to Polynesia. As culture and food are inherently intertwined, I was also focused on eating and drinking my way across the region. One of the places I was able to explore that in full was at the Food & CookLab Tahiti on the island of Moorea. Founded by Audrey Lachaud, and operated by her and her partner Stevenson Vahimarae, a Bora Bora native, its a project dedicated to local food and producers.

Guests can take immersive cooking classes, which help to fund the overarching mission, including a shared space for purveyors to produce their wares, along with a garden growing an abundance of fruits and vegetables breadfruit, limes, pumpkins, coconuts, pineapples, starfruit, taro and much, much more. Cooking class attendees come away with a wealth of knowledge to go with a very full belly after scarfing down the half dozen dishes they help to prepare.

Were trying to promote local food and also people having opportunities to come and do their own projects here, Lachaud says. This is the only place like this here that I know.

Beyond the food, though, one of my key cultural explorations was something off the beaten track for most travelers: coming home with a traditional tattoo souvenir. What better way is there to experience and connect with a culture than by partaking in one of its fundamental, foundational practices? And make no mistake about it, thats what tattooing is across Polynesia the word ttau, which can be translated as to make marks by striking, is where we get the word tattoo, after all despite lengthy periods of colonial powers criminalizing and stigmatizing the art and its meaning.

Tattoos are our identity; we dont have a book to write in, Vahimarae of the Food & CookLab explains to me. Family history, social status, where youre from and who your people are, your life story and your familys stories, this is all captured in a tattoos symbols, the skin of your body morphing into the pages of a memoir detailing everything about your place in the world.

In the past, receiving such a tattoo wouldnt have been possible or approved of for an outsider, but today its viewed as a means of cultural exchange. Now its an honor for us that you can go and show our culture to the world, Vahimarae says. We are a small people, he adds, referring to the population size. But cultural influence, from tourism and food, from outrigger canoes and tattoos, amplifies and spreads their presence around the world.

The tattoo process, using a razor-sharp pig tusk, is a little different from back in the States.

Jake Emen

Receiving tattoos performed with traditional methodologies is something Ive done across the world, and whether its a fervent passion or an unhealthy obsession might depend on which of my family members or friends you ask. My first venture was receiving a Japanese tebori, or hand-carving tattoo, by a master of the craft in Tokyo. In Cambodia, I was spurred on by locals to receive a sak yon tattoo performed via bamboo needle. And in New Zealand, I received a Mori t moko performed by wooden tapping tools.

That last tattoo wraps around the length of my right forearm, and was recognized in an instant by Tahitian tattooist James Samuela, whos been practicing and reviving this traditional art for the past 20 years. Mori and Polynesian cultures are closely related, as are their tattoos, both in the method of tapping as well as their artistic symbolism and appearance. Therefore, when James asked me about the tattoo, what it meant and where I got it, it was more to suss out whether I knew, and perhaps whether I was approaching the endeavor from the right place, as opposed to his own edification.

He built around the existing design of shark teeth and ocean waves, representing strength and protection, spirituality and lifes journey, connectedness to the whole of the world, with the same concept and iconography. The result was a shining sun in the sky, and a strong wind filling up a boats sails. For a people whose livelihood might depend on the success of a sailing voyage in a handmade craft, traversing the seas required knowledge, strength and determination. The tattoo was performed via tapping, with the implements crafted by James himself. He carved and fashioned a razor-sharp, multi-pronged ivory comb from a pigs tusk the morning before our session, and gifted it to me afterwards.

Inside the bungalows at the St. Regis Bora Bora, there are glass cutouts in the floor.

Jake Emen

Youll have your own reasons for heading to the Tahitian islands, though, and its probably more along the lines of squeezing in as much world-class snorkeling or scuba diving as possible. Or maybe its maximizing relaxation time at beautiful beaches with vibrant waters in a spectrum of shades.

Pursuing some top-flight indulgence was on my agenda as well, and The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort was beckoning. I needed some R&R after the tattoo, right? The St. Regis epitomizes the islands natural beauty and its penchant for serious swank. Surrounded by the insane colors of the lagoon and with views of the famed Mount Otemanu peak, the resorts massive overwater bungalows sport features like glass floor cutouts for ocean viewing and direct water access from private decks. Bathrooms feature two-person soaking tubs adjacent to sexy stone-tiled showers absent of any cordoning off from the rest of the space, ideal for whether getting clean or getting dirty, as it were.

Theres always a higher level on Bora Bora, though, and private islands abound. When I was at the St. Regis, Snoop Dogg and his son and crew were staying at the private Bora Bora One, busy Instagramming the experience to their followers. Keep in mind that a beginning budget for a vacation at that particular property probably starts with a one and ends with five zeros. Elsewhere around the islands, the newly opened Motu Nao Nao is another super-luxe offering, with three villas available for exclusive rental on a private 26-hectare island.

Such properties are found on islands known across Tahiti as motus, which are tiny islets found ringing around the lagoons and reefs of larger islands and atolls. Many of these are still owned outright by locals, who may have divvied them up into small slivers for each child from one generation to the next, and are used as idyllic, personal weekend retreats.

The difference between the main island and the motu is that the main island is the town and the motu is the country, a local guide tells me. Nothing but sand and palm and coconut trees, surrounded by some of the worlds most pristine swaths of ocean. Not too shabby for a country escape thats a quick 10-minute boat ride across the lagoon.

La Villa Royale, the new manor at Vahine Island Resort.

Jake Emen

Other motus may be either inhabited or open to the public, and there are certainly more accessible options with more affordable price tags. Consider Vahine Island, a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World group thats positioned across from Tahaa.

This is what people think French Polynesia was like 20 or 30 years ago, one of my hosts at Vahine tells me. Its more Robinson Crusoe than a six-figure media mogul escape on Bora Bora, while still excelling at attentive service and offering a brilliant, unspoiled beach locale. The resort comprises three small motus, with nine overwater and beach bungalows combined, along with a new addition, La Villa Royale, a six-bedroom island manor with a wraparound indoor-outdoor pool as its centerpiece.

And just as theres always another more exclusive and expensive resort, in French Polynesia, theres always another more remote and hidden enclave. At the end of a day-long excursion filled with Tahaas rum distilleries and vanilla farms, my guide George drops me off on his familys motu, a piece of which he operates as a de facto private beach club.

A single table is positioned at the corner of a tiny, perfect stretch of sand, with a little palm tree beside me, massive brain coral mere steps offshore, and a lunch spread with whole grilled fish and coconut bread and taro and Tahitian poisson cru, the national dish of tuna ceviche doused in coconut milk, all brought to the table alongside potent rum punch. Theres nothing but the gorgeous South Pacific expanse ahead of me in every direction not a chain hotel or selfie stick, or for that matter, another tourist, in sight.

Its the Tahitian dream writ large, or at least one version of it, and whatever that special image of Tahiti is that youve been dreaming about, its there for you to find.

For more travel news, tips and inspo, sign up for InsideHook's weekly travel newsletter, The Journey.

The rest is here:

Bungalows, Tattoos and Private Motus: The Sublime Ease of Island-Hopping Around Tahiti - InsideHook

YOU can spend the night in a lighthouse on an island all to yourself for just 28 each a night.

The Porer lighthouse was built in 1833 on the islet, just a few miles from Istria in Croatia.

7

7

7

The lighthouse has a 35 metre tower, which have two apartment rooms inside.

The apartment has two bedrooms, each with a double bed, along with a bathroom and fully equipped kitchen.

Make sure you are prepared when you arrive - you can only get there by 35-minute boat ride from Premantura which will cost you 42 each.

Make sure to take enough food and drink for the island as there is nothing else on it, so you will be cooking your own meals during the stay.

However, these can be requested from the skipper Sinia Milutinovi, who also drives the boat.

And you will be off your phones as there is no WiFi either.

The views make up for it - the tiny island takes just one minute to walk around and has amazing sunset views.

If you fancy going off the grid to be surrounded by the sea, it won't break the bank.

It starts from 114 a night on Airbnb - and with it sleeping four people, means you can stay for just 28 each.

We've rounded up some other private islands you can rent in Spain, France and Greece from just 12 each a night.

Or you can rent a private island and farmhouse in Italy for 40pp a night.

If you don't want to go that far, there is a private island in the UK with a hot tub and amazing views you can rent for the night for just 46 each.

7

7

7

7

Go here to read the rest:

You can rent an entire island and lighthouse in European hotspot for just 28 each a night... - The Sun

Have you been dreaming about a tinycabin in the woods? This property on Shaw Islandhas 10 acres of forest, plateaus, and knollsand a 360-square-foot cabin.

Out of the four islands served by the San Juan ferry, Shaw is the smallest and least developed, and the most off-grid you can go on the islands without needing (or chartering) your own boat. Very few tourists come here; the only available short-term accommodations are the campsites in Shaw Island County Park or, before the Covid-19 pandemic, guesthouses for those committed to immersing themselves in the labor and prayer of Our Lady of the Rock, a 300-acre womens Benedictine monastery and farm.

Near the ferry dock, theres a general store with antique furnishings and its original century-old fir floors, carrying products by local farms and artisans, as well as general provisionsthis is the entire business district. Farther in, theres a library and historical museum anda fire station; residents alsohave access to a school and community center. Thats it. No movie theaters, clothing boutiques, cafes, or other general trappings of civilization.

Theres plenty of room to build a more traditional home on the property (power and phone lines go up to the property line, so available local utilities are immediately available). The cabin itself, however, benefits from a private well on the property. That's about it. Heat comes from a small wood stove, and light from a fuel lamp and any lanterns or flashlights you choose to bring. As for the bathroom situation: Theres a pit toilet about 25 feet behind the cabin surrounded by 10-foot evergreen trees and curtains. According to the owner, it airs out very well.

Custom-built in 2000, the cabin is full of little artisan touches. Tile on a counter along the back wall and around the stove is reclaimed cracked porcelain, filled in with small rocks. The limited kitchen areathe wood stove is the only stove, and theres no running waterhas cute, custom wood cabinetry. The sleeping loft, nestled up in the exposed beams, has a built-in bedside table in the corner, with shelves and drawers above.

Its facing downslope to the east, so it takes in plenty of morning light, supplemented by light to the south. Dormer windows cast some additional ambient light below and give the sleeping loft, which also has a few west-facing windows, a nice view.

This property is part of the Tibbs Landing community, which gives it access to a private beach and a common area. But dont worry, its not decked out like a city HOA would be; the unpaved road to the property is regularly maintained, but its still an unpaved road. Even if you decide to build up some modern conveniences out here, youll have a super-secluded retreat.

0 Tibbs Rd, Shaw IslandSize: 360 square feet/9.9 acres, 1 loft/1 outhouseList Date: 8/6/2021List Price: $475,000Listing Agents: Jon Boyer, Offshore Properties

Read more here:

Property Watch: An Itty-Bitty, Off-Grid Cabin on Shaw Island - Seattle Met

The Solomon Islands Government has seemingly confirmed it will block some foreign journalists from entering the country, declaring that reporters who are "demeaning" or engage in "racial profiling" by attacking its ties with China will be banned.

The office of Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare has repeatedly berated the ABC's Four Corners program, which explored China's growing presence across Solomon Islands.

On Wednesday the office issued an extraordinary and lengthy statement once again targeting the national broadcaster and Four Corners, accusing the program of engaging in racial stereotyping and the "intentional use of misinformation and distribution of pre-conceived prejudicial information".

The ABC has already rejected those accusations, saying it stands by the episode and highlighting that its main interview subjects were Solomon Islanders raising concerns about China's presence in the country, rather than foreign experts.

But the statement from Mr Sogavare's office insists that the ABC's scrutiny of China's actions in Solomon Islands amounted to "racial profiling", declaring that the broadcaster was "trying to tell the Solomon Islands people that because the Government of Solomon Islands is opening up to partners who are not, in the opinion of ABC, white and does not operate a democratic system it is wrong, unfit and corrupt."

It then seems to use that claim as a basis for entry bans on reporters, saying "the Constitution of Solomon Islands protects Solomon Islands from racial discrimination and the government of Solomon Islands will ensure that racial practices are eliminated from Solomon Islands."

"ABC or other foreign media must understand that the manner in which journalists are allowed conduct themselves in other [countries]does not give them the right to operate in the same manner in the Pacific," it reads.

"The Pacific is not the same as Australia or United States. When you chose to come to our Pacific Islands, be respectful, be courteous and accord the appropriate protocols."

"Such organisations or journalists who possess such qualities will not be allowed to enter Solomon Islands and other Pacific Islands nations."

The statement does not provide any details about exactly how this ban would be implemented, or exactly what restrictions might be imposed on foreign reporters.

It's not clear exactly when the new rules will be implemented, whether any guidelines have yet been drafted, or whether they will apply to all foreign journalists.

Right now, Australians who wish to enter the country, including journalists, are able to apply for a visa on arrival.

The ABC first revealed earlier this week that Solomon Islands may introduce new restrictions on foreign journalists perceived as hostile to the government.

The ABC also revealed that Foreign Affairs officials complained to Australia's High Commissioner Lachlan Strahan about the Four Corners program, although Mr Sogavare's office insisted the government had not "summoned" Dr Strahan, but simply raised concerns about the program in a "neighbourly chat."

It's not clear what officials pressed Dr Strahan to do in the wake of the Four Corners episode. The ABC has editorial independence from the federal government which means ministers and senior officials cannot exert any control over what it puts to air.

But the Prime Ministers statement said the government was deeply concerned that such offensive materials are produced by ABC and are allowed to be broadcasted to Pacific Islands states.

Some Solomon Islands reporters are already increasingly worried that press freedoms in the country are beginning to erode.

The Solomon Islands government has moved to replace the board of the publicly funded broadcaster SIBC and has stripped the organisation of its status as a state-owned enterprise, although it insists it will not try to control any editorial content.

It has also been exploring the possibility of setting up a state-owned newspaper, which could have serious financial ramifications for private media outlets in Solomon Islands.

Read more:

Solomon Islands threatens to ban foreign journalists entry into country over 'demeaning' coverage - ABC News

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. The spotlight once again shined on Oakwoods DJ Nicky Rizz when he played to a sold-out crowd at the SantAnna Club, a private beach venue on the Greek Island of Mykonos during a really big bash powered by Dream Hospitalitys owner, George Karavias.

Rapper 50 Cent, whose impact in the hip hop industry has been huge, took the place by storm when he made an appearance before a cheering crowd of some 3,500 fans, as did Mary J. Blige, who traveled from Italy especially for the mega production.

Word is 50 Cent was having such a fun time, he grabbed the mic and performed some of his biggest hits.

Nicky Rizz, who took on Greece for the very first time, revealed that his return to the limelight also included a performance by rapper French Montana, best known for his tune, Unforgettable.

From the left are rapper 50 Cent, DJ Nicky Rizz and rapper French Montana. (Courtesy/Nicky Rizz)Staten Island Advance

It was an amazing experience getting to deejay in Mykonos and gain fans across the world, said Rizz, adding that he couldnt stop talking about the thrilling venture. It was like a dream come true getting to do a two-gig tour in Europe.

He added that since Karavias background is 100% Greek he hails from Ikaria you know he really made these two parties happen in an incredible way.

From the left are rapper French Montana and promoter George Karavias. (Courtesy/DJ Nicky Rizz)Staten Island Advance

The French Montana show was also a sell out, Rizz went on to explain. French has a big fan base in Europe so the people really came out in droves to see him as he performed eight to 10 of his biggest hits. And the club was supposed to close at midnight, but stayed open til 2 a.m.

DJ Nicky Rizz stand in front of a billboard of rapper French Montana. (Courtesy/Nicky Rizz)Staten Island Advance

From the left are rapper French Montana and DJ Nicky Rizz. (Courtesy/DJ Nicky Rizz)Staten Island Advance

The following day, Karavias and Rizz got to spend some quiet time basking in the sun on a private beach in Mykonos together with French Montana.

DJ Nicky Rizz is shown in Mykonos, Greece. (Courtesy/Nicky Rizz)Staten Island Advance

A LITTLE ABOUT DJ NICKY RIZZ

At the end of 2019, Rizz was inducted into a group of DJs known as The Heavy Hitters.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, he released a track called Ay Papi that could be heard on HOT 97, Sirius XM, and deejays played it once the clubs began to open. It can be found on Spotify or Apple Music under Nicky Rizz.

But at only 26, hes still chasing his dreams. He wants to represent Staten Island in the best way he knows how, and says he wants to put Staten Island on his back.

One of the youngest deejays to make it big early in life, hes still climbing the ladder to success. He credits the Heavy Hitters and DJ Camilo one of the biggest deejays in the nation, as his mentors.

He started at age 12 practicing his craft in the basement of his South Shore home, before going on to deejay every weekend in some the hottest clubs in the tri-state area and in Miami.

Of Italian descent, he did a You Tube podcast, Growing Up Italian as a way to represent his heritage.

Achieving success in every aspect of life takes drive and determination, he said.

In fact, hes asking Staten Islanders to watch for the Grand Opening of Sneaker, Zoo & Apparel, his latest business venture, set to make its debut Saturday, Sept. 10 at 2481 Richmond Rd. in New Dorp.

DJ Nicky Rizz can be found on his Instagram page @djnickyrizz

Read more here:

Staten Islands own DJ Nicky Rizz takes on Mykonos and wows the crowd for first time in ancient Greece - SILive.com

Each British county has its own charms, but only one wears a crown. The Royal County of Berkshire, so titled since 1957, is home to the Queens favourite castle and, for many, thats enough of a reason to visit. But beyond Windsors fine pomp and pageantry, youll find a region full of surprises: riverside theatres, abundant museums, and villages with more Michelin stars than most cities. Its also home to the loveliest stretch of the Thames (according to us locals, at least), and a trove of fabulous hotels. From dinky townhouses to entire private islands, heres where to rest your head in style.

The best hotels in Berkshire are:

Drink the afternoon away at The Vineyard

(The Vineyard)

Neighbourhood: Newbury

There are 30,000 bottles of wine in this hotels cellar. Do you really need another reason to visit? Yes, the dcor is lavish and art-filled, and theres a huge pool overlooking the gardens, but youre really here for the inch-thick wine list and it doesnt disappoint. Many bottles are under 30, and the sommeliers are savvy yet un-snooty: describe your taste, and theyll dig out something spot-on. Maybe youll sip a zesty Japanese Koshu over lunch, a voluptuous Argentinian Malbec with dinner, or get elegantly sozzled on tastings? Ask nicely, and they might even let you look in the cellar

Price: Doubles from 225, room only

Book now

This grand hotel will make you feel like a queen

(River Arts Club)

Neighbourhood: Maidenhead

From the outside, this Thames-side Victorian mansion looks grand and traditional but all is not as it seems. Inside, its a dazzling combo of original features and decade-hopping accessories, from antique Chinese furniture to modernist sculptures and bright Designers Guild wallpaper. Despite its bombastic looks, the atmosphere is refreshingly low-key with just 13 rooms, an honesty bar, and plenty of nooks to curl up with a book. Theres no restaurant, but nearby options sport a constellation of Michelin stars: among them, Michel Rouxs Waterside Inn, and Heston Blumenthals The Fat Duck.

Price: Doubles from 175, B&B

Book now

The perfect spot to tuck into afternoon tea

(SungChauPhotography)

Neighbourhood: Reading

Its hard to believe that this glorious red-brick manor started life as a council building. Built in 1911, its all elegant cornices, lofty ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows a delight to work in, no doubt, but even better for play. Skip the minimalist House rooms, and book a sumptuous Roseate instead: with four-poster beds, velvet armchairs and original fireplaces, they ooze Edwardian opulence. The city centre is a 10-minute walk away, and the hotels Reading Room restaurant serves fine British classics and literary-inspired cocktails. My favourite? Oscar Wildes Enigma: a feisty muddle of rum, maraschino and lime.

Price: Doubles from 270, B&B

Book now

Youll love this magical hotel almost as much as your kids will

(Legoland Castle Hotel)

Neighbourhood: Windsor

The surest way to win your childs affections? Booking a trip to LEGOLAND, of course. The Castle Hotel is nirvana for little ones, featuring a pirate-themed swimming pool, magicians roaming the restaurant, and supersized LEGO figures who talk! The family rooms, comprising bunk beds and a double, are themed around wizards and knights, with an in-room treasure hunt, LEGO goodies, and a bedtime story about a friendly dragon. While the kids hog the PlayStation 4, youll be glad of the Nespresso machine, quality linens and blackout curtains especially after an action-packed day at the theme park next door.

Price: 357 for a family room (sleeps four), B&B

Book now

Relax and unwind at Cliveden House

(Cliveden House)

Neighbourhood: Taplow

The epicentre of one of British politics biggest disgraces (until recent years, perhaps), Cliveden is the glamorous mansion where, in 1961, Christine Keeler met John Profumo then Secretary of State for War sparking an affair that would threaten the very bedrock of parliament. But then, Cliveden has always raised eyebrows: murder, mistresses and fake deaths pepper its 350-year history. You can swim in the very pool where the Profumo Affair started, and sip Champagne where the glitterati partied without prying eyes. Of course, in surroundings as lascivious as this, it would be rude not to create your own scandal.

Price: Doubles from 495, B&B

Book now

This townhouse is just a stones throw away from the sights

(Gilbeys Townhouse)

Neighbourhood: Eton

More of a bistro-with-bedrooms than a full-blown hotel, Gilbeys is a low key spot but its restaurant will knock your socks off. The menu is Modern British in style, and beloved of Berkshires foodies: think wild mushroom risotto, rosemary-crusted lamb rump, and a heavenly Eton Mess (naturally). But few realise that Gilbeys also has three rooms and a studio suite, tucked away at the top of its townhouse, featuring king size beds, crisp linens and enviable antiques aplenty. With both Windsor Castle and Eton College within a 10-minute walk, you couldnt be better placed for sightseeing or dinner.

Price: Doubles from 150, room only

Book now

Take a high end trip at Castle Hotel

(Castle Hotel Windsor)

Neighbourhood: Windsor

The Castle Hotel Windsor has some seriously noble neighbours. From the bedrooms at the front, you can gaze out over the Queens favourite residence and the Changing of the Guards parade passes outside the restaurant, so grab a window table at breakfast. Its also a favourite among celebs and dignitaries: Sir Ian McKellan stayed here while playing Hamlet at Windsors theatre, while Sir Captain Tom stopped for afternoon tea after receiving his knighthood. But even for us ordinary folk, the Castle pulls out the stops: think slick service, comfortable rooms, and excellent locally sourced food and wines.

Price: Doubles from 154, B&B

Book now

Shack up in this 40-room hotel for the full experience

(Monkey Island Estate)

Neighbourhood: Bray

Alas, there are no monkeys. But perhaps the promise of a river-view bed, floating boat spa and free Champagne (if you book direct) will make up for the lack of primates? On a private island in the Thames, this 40-room retreat feels deliciously cut off from the world, and is accessed only by footbridge, boat or helicopter. In this neighbourhood, millionaires mansions yield to wide, willow-grazed waters and Monkey Island is one of the grandest. It was originally built in the 18th century as a Dukes fishing retreat, and has hosted royals, artists, aristocrats and socialites ever since so youre in excellent company.

Price: Doubles from 275, room only

Book now

(The Retreat)

Neighbourhood: Newbury

A reimagining of a country house hotel, The Retreat has everything you need for a spectacular mini break with absolutely no need to leave. As well as two restaurants, a tennis court, woodland walks and croquet lawn, theres a market-style courtyard featuring a wine shop, nail salon, and caf overlooking the grounds. It feels like a resort (in a good way), but the accommodation is anything but cookie-cutter: there are 55 rooms decked out in William Morris-style wallpaper, quirky heritage artworks and in the Signature Suites freestanding copper bathtubs. Just the spot for a glass of bubbly.

Price: Doubles from 180, B&B

Book now

Read more on UK hotels:

Read more:

Best Berkshire hotels 2022: Where to stay for comfort and charm - The Independent

At the influential financial services conference Spectrum this year, one of the key panel discussions will focus on the future of fund administration in the Cayman Islands.

Visiting panellist and fund administration expert Georges Archibald, Chief Innovation Officer and Regional Head of North America, Apex Group, talks about where the global market is headed and where the Cayman Islands fits in.

Check out Spectrum 2022 on September 8th as Georgesjoins a number of other experts to discuss key issues affecting Caymans financial services sector.

What do yousee as the key global driversof fund administration over the past few years?

Recent years haveseen a maturation of a number of trends in the asset management and private markets driving the growth of fund services. Private market assets continue to evolve and become more accessible with greater transparency and better access to information for investors. In addition, the growing consideration of ESG factors has led managers to seek the experience and insight of independent providers in order to evaluate and improve the ESG credentials of their portfolio.

How does the Cayman Islands fit into Apex Group's global strategy?

The Cayman Islands remain the worlds leading domicile for offshore funds, a thriving banking centreand a hub for digital assets, and as such continues to be a key strategic location for our clients and the Apex Group business.

Cayman continues to recognize its important role as a leading global financial services hub and has worked over the years to evolve its legislation and regulation in a balanced, forward-thinking and robust manner. Local legislation is kept in line with international regulatory standards to meet the needs of investors and managers around the world ensuring Cayman remains one of the most sought-after domiciles for funds.

Its mature financial and professional services ecosystem, and robust and forward-thinking regulatory framework combined with the logistical and time zone proximity to the US, continue to create a compelling jurisdiction.

As Apex Group has expanded globally to over 85 offices in 42 countries having a large Cayman Islands footprint allows our clients to work with a provider that can leverage its presence and expertise in a leading offshore jurisdiction. Apex Group continues to invest in the Cayman Islands. This level of local experience gives clients the confidence to further evaluate their jurisdictional options.

As a majorglobal player in the fund admin space, what does Apex Group see as potential challenges in the investmentfunds sector over the next 3-5 years?

Volatile equity markets, rising interest rates, geopolitical instability and ongoing disruptions from global pandemic have resulted in allocators turning to credit strategies in order to achieve their targets.

In addition, at the start of 2022, the private equity industry was sitting on a significant amount of dry powder that needed to be deployed, and we have seen strong leveraged buyout activity, driving demand for our capital markets and escrow solutions.

Private market assets continue to evolve and become more accessible with greater transparency and better access to information for investors. The two key themes that have had a place in most every strategic discussion about what the landscape will look like in the coming years are data and digital. These two inter-related principles are cornerstones to private markets democratization because they allow for more certainty around ascribing value.

We expect existing players to continue allocating larger proportions of AuM to private credit, alongside the diversification of established managers into new strategies. Service providers must be equipped to support increasingly complex and granular private debt portfolios with more sophisticated and demanding service requirements.

There appears to be an increasingtrendin fund managers outsourcingvarious functions. Whatdo you feel are thereasons behind this trend?

Downward pressure on costs and fees, as well as a global talent shortage, are continuing to drive outsourcing as managers seek greater time, resource and cost efficiencies. Fund managers are increasingly seeking a single-source solution, whereby they can access all the services they require, via one relationship. Forrester Consulting published an independent study earlier this year on the Total Economic Impact of Apex Group the report found that clients using our single-source solution achieved a return on investment of 105 per cent and cost benefits of $5.39m, with a net present value of $2.75m over a three-year period.

Has thegrowthof fintech and crypto impacted Apex Group's global strategyin any way?

Remote work and the demand for operational efficiency have highlighted the benefits and necessity of technology in fund administration. We expect to see the growing digitisation of the fund admin space to play a key part in minimising the traditional manual paper-based processes as managers start to embrace the use of digital technology. That will include things like distributed ledger and blockchain to help capture, consolidate, analyze and share data in an efficient and secure way. At Apex Group, we are looking towards the future and investing in these new tools today.

Managing a digital asset or cryptocurrency fund and/or transactions comes with an entirely new set of challenges for fund managers, intermediaries and investors. Having the right partner and technology is crucial for overcoming complexities and gaining a competitive edge. By partnering with Apex Group, our clients gain access to our comprehensive single-source platform for servicing digital assetsand benefit from our ever-evolving services, industry-leading digital asset technologies and a global team of experts across our dedicated digital asset Centre of Excellence locations such as Cayman.

See the original post here:

Spectrum 2022: Focus on fund administration | Loop Cayman Islands - Loop News Cayman

Photo / Supplied.

A romantic getaway, fun with friends, solo reflection Fijis range of experiences means everyone is catered for, and in some truly spectacular ways

There's no denying Fiji's romantic allure gob-smacking sunsets, private beach picnics and seaside cocktails are what couple dreams are made of. But this 300-plus Pacific paradise, just a three-hour flight away, has every holiday maker covered. So if you're a group of friends ready for some long-awaited good times, looking to reconnect through nature, or just want to try something new and exciting in a location that's as gorgeous as it gets, than Fiji has exactly what you need. And from every possible angle.

For smooth sailing fansIf being out on the water is your happy place, Captain Cook Cruises gives you the choice of day or sunset dinner cruises for some fun at sea, for all ages. For those keen to take it further, there are multi-day cruises some of which travel to places lesser-visited no resorts here - like the Lau Group. It's the perfect way to reach these islands and see untouched Fiji.

For some adults-only time on the ocean, Blue Lagoon Cruises are multi-night sailings around the Yasawa Islands, where you can luxuriate onboard, then discover what lies beneath at the best snorkelling spots, plus get to know the locals with excursions designed to give you a taste of Fijian life.

For adrenaline junkiesReady to send your pulse racing? Skydive Fiji promises high-octane thrills with a 200km/h freefall over the captivating coral reefs of the Mamanuca Islands and Denarau, with a scenic white sand drop zone location.

Surfers should make a beeline for what the locals call 'Thunder Reef'; one of the most challenging waves in the world. Cloudbreak, located off the coast of Tararua in the Mamanuca Islands, is not for the faint-hearted though observers are welcome too of course.

The rivers of Fiji offer up fun aplenty too. Feel the wind in your hair and spray in your face as you tackle the life-affirming rapids of the Upper Navua River. Located in Fiji's adventure capital, whitewater tours such as Rivers Fiji navigate waters that traverse deep gorges and crashing waterfalls and range from peaceful glides to 3+ rapids.

Land-loving thrillseekers are well catered for too, with heart-stopping speeds through mountainous terrain and tropical forests at Fiji's newest zipline, Zip Fiji at Momi. Located 35 minutes from Nadi, limestone cave exploration and a side serve of spectacular ocean views are included with each package.

For luxury loversThere are many ways to make like a movie star in Fiji, from a private trip with Heli-Tours Fiji; or add a bit of intrigue on a 'mystery tour' with Pacific Island Air.

And when it comes to blow-your-mind resorts, you're spoilt for choice - Likuliku Lagoon Resort, Tokoriki Private Island, VOMO Private Island Resort and Nanuku Resort are the stuff island dreams are made of.

If it's some concentrated pampering you're after, try a treatment at Coral Coast's famous Bebe spa, located at Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort or push the boat out with an overnight pamper session with Shangri-La Yanuca Island's Dusk till Dawn package.

Keeping it simpleFiji's a place where you can do as much or as little as you want. And there's no need to break budget when you can simply drop by beachside resorts to partake of snorkelling. Around one of Fiji's 333 islands or along the stunning Coral Coast, are great options. Get closer to more land-based nature with hiking or watching the sun set on the Sigatoka Sand Dunes (Fiji's first National Park); and for some cultural enrichment check out Nadi's gems like the Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Temple or take a walk through The Garden of The Sleeping Giant.

Friends, couples, solo travellers everyone's catered for when you come to a place where happiness can't help but find you. Fiji's for everyone. And it's open for happiness. http://www.fiji.travel/

Link:

Best ways to see Fiji - Sponsored Stories News - New Zealand Herald