May 25th, 2021
Welcome to the latest issue of AM/PM NEWS. We’re confident you’ve treated your moms to indulging treats earlier this month and have brilliant ideas for dads (friendly reminder: June 20 is father’s day). But how about self-gifting?! We shared some well-deserved, travel-inspired options for you – and your four-legged friends – that are only a click away. As travelers are looking to get their hands dirty and immerse in nature more than ever, we picked top foraging experiences from New England to Europe to Africa. We hear someone has a big birthday coming up: 245, that is. What better place to celebrate it from than Washington, D.C.?! Even though the Summer Olympics will look and feel different this year, we are inspired by all the athletes as well as a chef who knows a thing or two about an Olympian diet (hint: 6,000-seat Olympic Village cafeteria in Athens). There are so many city hotels we love, but for this issue, we highlighted three favorites that offer something a bit extra with their outdoor spaces.
TREAT YOURSELF:
The new exclusive dog collection from the Fife Arms in Scotland might convince everyone to own a dog. All made with the house tweed, created by Scottish textile designer Araminta Campbell, the selection includes a chic coat (£32.50), almost-too-pretty-to-chew bone (£12.50), and a wool and leather leash (£35). As a way to give back to the restaurant workers across Napa Valley, author Jess Lander and Feed Napa Now (a coalition feeding families across the region) have teamed up to create The Essential Napa Valley Cookbook ($39.95). If you love coffee as much as we do, try the sustainable custom blend by Nayara in Costa Rica, created in collaboration with master roaster Ken Palmer, who trained alongside Alfred Peet of Peet’s Coffee ($28 for 500g).
WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE:
Even though it has gained Instagram-worthy attention in recent years, foraging was a way of life for our ancestors. Going back to basics require expertise, so consider: Dromoland Castle in Ireland for a hands-on lesson in harvesting seaweed; distill essential oils with a medical nutrologist at UXUA in Trancoso; explore the Scottish Highlands with Fife Arms’ in-house forager for plants that can be transformed into teas; turn to andBeyond’s guides on the Masai Mara for wild flora that will do wonders for a toothache; or learn how to shock an oyster in Nantucket, where Retsyo Oysters are cultivated just 300 yards away from The Wauwinet hotel on the northeast shore.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, AMERICA:
When America celebrates its 245th birthday this July, the capital has myriad options for history buffs and curious minds alike of all ages. Check out the recently-renovated Martin Luther King, Jr. Library as well as the 4700-piece, 100-year-old Phillips Collection. Where to Stay? The Dupont Circle, where interior architect Martin Brudnizki and Irish designer Clodagh are behind the new look, offers hand-picked ‘Slice of the City’ experiences that range from “24 Hours In” to special exhibitions. For an Instagram-dream, outdoor cocktail indulgence, check out Doyle Bar’s new terrace instillation by The House of Suntory. One of our favorites from the special cocktail menu by the famed Japanese spirits brand is ‘ice cream parlor’ with Haku vodka, passion fruit and Morenko’s honey lavender ice cream.
GOLD MEDAL GOES TO:
Kalesma is the newest opening in Mykonos. The suite and villa property, where each accommodation has unobstructed views of the Aegean Sea, is the only hotel in the world with Rick Owens furniture, welcoming guests at the lobby. In addition to the bread oven, giving a nod to more than 70 types of bread in Greece, Chef Costa Tsingas, former executive chef in charge of Greek food at the Olympic village for the Athens Olympics, focuses on extremely traditional raw materials and cooking techniques for light and ingredient-centered dishes. His pantry essentials include oregano, gigantes (beans), honey, yogurt, stafides (raisins and currants), krokos (saffron), ambelofila (grape leaves), phyllo, kefalotyri, manouri and feta cheese, and of course, olive oil and olives. The hotel’s wine collection has some rare options, including Pure Santorini 2014 and Thalassitis vythismenos Gaia 2015.
CITY HOTELS WE LOVE:
Beyond the far flung and remote destinations, cities will also make a comeback. Especially those that offer privacy, extra space and outdoor offerings. Royal Mansour in Marrakech is a quiet retreat near many cultural institutions, including Jardin Majorelle and the Yves Saint Laurent Museum. Guests are welcomed with an open-air courtyard, nearly four acres of lush gardens and private multi-story riads (not your typical hotel room here) with rooftop plunge pools dotted along petal-pink pathways. London is always a good idea! When the city reopens, Americans might be lured with Belmond’s address in the city, The Cadogan, with its exclusive access to the private 8.5-acre Cadogan Estate Gardens — one of the largest garden squares in Chelsea and home to acres of sunny lawns, sculptures, a ‘pollinator meadow’, tennis courts and a playground. When La Réserve Geneva, the first hotel under the La Réserve brand (others are in Paris, Ramatuelle, Zurich), opened its doors in 2003, it was an unexpected newcomer to the city due to its tucked-away location and design. The property is located on a 10-acre park on the shores of Lac Léman. Its interiors, designed by Jacques Garcia, are inspired by an African game reserve, with animal print carpets and sculpted elephant heads.
May 20th, 2021
Under the dappled shade of the cherry trees, guests can sip cocktails crafted with Suntory’s Roku cherry blossom gin (and of course those with their famous whisky, too)
Doyle bar’s sprawling terrace has always been a neighborhood favorite. This summer, it is being transformed with a partnership between the hotel and the famed Japanese spirits brand. A special cocktail menu will be available featuring the spirits, including The Secret Garden with Roku Gin, absinthe, and cucumber (named after guests’ comments about the terrace); the Hokey Toki with Toki Whisky, strawberry shrub, and egg white (a play on the classic gin fizz); and the Ice Cream Parlor with Haku vodka, passion fruit, Morenko’s honey lavender ice cream. These will be accompanied by a menu of light bites including oysters, herbed falafel, and tuna tostadas.
The terrace’s updated look took inspiration from photographer Slim Aarons’ oeuvre – picture poolside parties of the jetset in the 1950s and 60s in locations like Beverly Hills, Palm Beach, and the French Riviera – and the mid-century time period when the hotel was built. (The inside of Doyle was designed by Martin Brudnizki, also inspired by that era with bold colors, atmospheric wood paneling, fireplaces, and extensive use of brass and leather – giving the lounge-like space the feel of a private club.) Think bright blue and white striped umbrellas and walls covered in tropical orchids.
The terrace installation will be on through the summer.
About The Dupont Circle
As part of The Doyle Collection, a family-owned Irish luxury hotel group with a 60-year heritage, the Dupont Circle exudes a unique warmth and pervasive atmosphere of Irish hospitality – imbuing the space with the familiarity of a members’ club and the intimacy of a private home. The complete refurbishment of the hotel has been the vision of Bernie Gallagher, Chairman of The Doyle Collection and daughter of PV Doyle, founder of the eponymous hotel group. Mrs. Gallagher worked with Clodagh and Martin Brudnizki to create a glamorous hub in the world’s most powerful city – seamlessly weaving contemporary comfort and style with a 1950s aesthetic that pays homage to the building’s mid-century beginnings. Brudnizki focused on bold colors and varying textures in the bar and restaurant, while New York-based Clodagh incorporated holistic touches like live-edge wood and handwoven rugs in the penthouse suite and reimagined lobby.
May 20th, 2021
Kalesma Mykonos opens today! May 20, 2021
The suite- and villa-only hotel is now welcoming its first guests
Kalesma Mykonos opens today, inviting guests to experience authentic Mykonian hospitality in style. The property sits atop a hillside overlooking Ornos bay, each suite offering an unobstructed water view. Reception is at the pinnacle – stylishly decorated with Rick Owens furniture – along with the restaurant, Pere Ubu. From here, guests can catch both the sunrise and the sunset, with the aroma of freshly baking bread constantly hanging in the air. (A local baker will be making bread in the property’s brick oven throughout the day.)
The 25 suites and two villas all have a private deck with a full-sized pool overlooking the Aegean Sea. Greek designers K-Studio (the architect behind the new Mykonos Airport) and Vangelis Bonios of Studio Bonarchi have used local materials such as wood, marble, stone and osier to give a contemporary look to traditional Cycladic style. The cool earth tones like taupe, grey, dark brown and charcoal blend together with white-washed surfaces and bougainvillea-filled archways to give a strong sense of place and to allow the brilliant blue of the Aegean Sea to stand out. The suites stand out with their thoughtful touches such as the night blooming jasmine planted outside each suite perfuming the evening air, the TVs that seemingly disappear out of view, and the custom artwork by Serbian artist Aleksander Vak.
At 680 sq. ft., the suites accommodate up to three adults, or two adults and two children. Each will feature private 970 sq. ft. terraces. Kalesma’s two- and three-bedroom villas can be rented together to sleep larger groups. At 2,600 sq. ft. each, both villas will have an open-plan living room with separate dining areas, a fully equipped kitchen with a pre-stocked refrigerator, wine fridge and private chef available upon request. Additional amenities will include a private gym and 24/7 butler service. Guests can also book in-room spa treatments.
For a truly unique vantage point, guests can venture up to Pere Ubu which offers locally sourced Cycladic specialties such as cheese saganaki with three local cheeses, spicy honey, thyme and roasted almonds and toasted octopus with sun dried tomatoes and olives. While offering international wines, the wine list places an emphasis on Greek wines such as Assyrtiko from Santorini, rosé from the Peloponnese, and orange wine (a very popular style in Greece). The signature cocktail, the Mediterraneo, is made with Greek Mastiha – a unique liqueur from Mastiha trees found only on the island Chios – infused with thyme and lime. The restaurant embodies Kalesma’s community ethos with nightly sunset celebrations, evening DJ entertainment and weekly culinary events like intimate dinners exclusively for Kalesma’s guests. All are encouraged to partake in the lighthearted island lifestyle over dinner – and plenty of wine – before sleeping soundly just down the hill.
Known for their hotspots in Athens – Sea Spice, Pere, and Ubu – the seasoned trio behind Kalesma are all local to the island; the land has been in one of the owner’s family for over 100 years.
While Mykonos is known for its social life, Kalesma invites guests to see the full picture of the island – from its mythological history (the hotel sits where Apollo is said to have kept his horses) to its Venetian town and artisan shops. Though they can certainly recommend the most fun beaches to see and be seen, the concierge team can also suggest hidden coves off-the-beaten track or a private yacht charter to nearby Delos, considered the most sacred of all islands in antiquity.
It’s been said that there are as many churches on Mykonos as there are local families, and a quick scan of the white-washed skyline underscores the anecdote. The abundance is largely due to the number of ancestral churches built on private property. Kalesma’s own chapel can serve as a picturesque backdrop for weddings.
There are flights to Athens from several US cities including New York, Chicago, and Philadelphia and from Athens it’s just a 40-minute flight or a 2.5-hour high speed ferry to Mykonos.
Suite rates begin at €1,200 and villas at €3,500 per night
May 19th, 2021
Even after the past year’s lull in travel across the Atlantic, Italy still ranks #1 international destination this summer for travelers who turn to the expertise of Virtuoso, luxury travel agency network with more than 20,000 travel advisors across 50 countries and annual sales between $25-30 billion. And it is now open to Americans without the need to quarantine upon arrival aboard quarantine-free flights.
Belmond is a brand that was born in Italy (with the purchase of Cipriani in Venice) and continues to evolve there as well (with the unveil of three Grand Suites and new boarding points for Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, including Rome and Florence). The global portfolio includes eight iconic properties that are ready to welcome guests with exclusive experiences. Of special note is the debut of Splendido Mare in Portofino, the first major renovation project under LVMH ownership.
Splendido Mare, a Belmond Hotel, Portofino
Following a complete restoration by Paris-based FESTEN Architecture, the 14-room property reopened on May 1, 2021. Inspired by its history in a fishing village — where there has not been a new house built since 1935 — Splendido Mare features antiques, including fruitwood armchairs by Paolo Buffa and Gio Ponti, walnut armchairs by Ulrich Guglielmo, and table lamps by Oscar Torlasco. Locally-sourced elements include terracotta tiles from Impruneta, ceramic tiles from Garfagnana, and marble from Carrara. The top suite honors Ava Gardner, who stayed at the guest house while filming Barefoot Contessa. The 100-piece art collection features specially commissioned items by Italian painter Gabriele Cappelli as well as cinematic photography and abstract pieces by local artists. The new restaurant, DaV Mare focuses on seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients, and signatures dishes includes a humble tomato pasta (paccheri alla vittorio). For dessert, do not miss the little gelateria in the heart of piazzetta.
Splendido, a Belmond Hotel, Portofino
Splendido Mare’s sister property — just a quick, complimentary shuttle ride away — is a 16th-century monastery. This summer, families can switch from virtual to hands-on learning, where young guests learn to bake pizza and focaccia, take a watercolor class in the gardens, or sail along Tigullio Gulf aboard the hotel’s private boat. Parents can indulge at the spa with treatments that use some of the best ingredients of the Mediterranean, such as chamomile, sage and basil.
Cipriani, a Belmond Hotel, Venice
Once the greatest seaport in Iate medieval Europe and still one of the world’s oldest cultural centers, Venice has just turned 1,600. Giuseppe Cipriani — also the founder of Harry’s Bar, the birthplace of the Bellini that was inspired by the pinky golden hues over St. Mark’s Square — opened Cipriani in 1956 as a haven for jet-setting travelers. Guests can enjoy the only Olympic-sized swimming pool in the city and kids programs ranging from Venetian mask making to pastry lessons. Looking ahead, the property will introduce a three-day course, November 11-14, for exploring the ancient disciplines that traveled along the Silk Road, such as a masterclass on Kintsugi, the delicate art of fixing ceramics with gold, and traditional silk print workshops. Guests of the hotel will also have access to behind-the-scenes tours of the city’s libraries and archives throughout the season. During tours of the Fondazione Cini Library and the 13th-century Library San Francesco della Vigna, rare books and preserved manuscripts will be on display exclusively for Belmond guests.
Caruso, a Belmond Hotel, Amalfi Coast
Perched atop the highest point of the charming town of Ravello, at 1,000 ft above sea level, the 11th-century palace adorns Instagram feeds with its heated infinity pool. The historic property features 18th-century Neapolitan paintings, lush grounds with lemon and olive trees, and a two-suite Villa Margherita for those seeking extra privacy. Guests also enjoy access to Oplontis, an ancient Roman archaeological site, as well as the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Pompeii and Ercolano.
Villa Sant’Andrea, A Belmond Hotel, Taormina
Built in 1919 among subtropical gardens, the property enjoys its own stretch on the secluded Bay of Mazzaro, where private cabanas for up to four guests can be reserved. Hop onboard the historic Circumetnea steam train to Mount Etna for private vineyard tours to taste rare vintages and local delicacies, available only to guests of Villa Sant’Andrea. Lunch is prepared at the homes of Le Mamme del Borgo members, a group of local women honoring traditional Sicilian recipes that have been passed down through generations. For those looking for a more intensive retreat, wine consultant Tom Harrow will lead a three-day retreat September 30-October 3. Sister property, Grand Hotel Timeo, was formerly a private home and was converted into a hotel in 1873. The property is adjacent to the Greek theater, stretched along six acres of tropical gardens, with views on the Naxos Bay and Mount Etna.
Villa San Michele, a Belmond Hotel, Florence
Nestled on a hilltop amid lush trees and terraced gardens, the 15th-century facade is attributed to Michelangelo. Guests are invited to experience the delicate beauty and solitude of a monastery that is as much a part of Italy’s culture as the country’s greatest cathedrals and galleries. A Colorful highlight is a 400-year-old wisteria, the only one in Florence to bloom twice a year.
Castello di Casole, A Belmond Hotel, Tuscany
The 4,200-acre property is one of the largest private estates in Italy, nestled in Tuscany’s geographical center between Siena and Florence. A former castle dating back to the 10th century, it has changed hands from Italian aristocratic family to acclaimed cinematographer Luchino Visconti before joining the Belmond portfolio. Highlights include a dreamy alfresco dining option at the Enchanted Table, a floating table situated underneath the same tree where Italian director Luchino Visconti used to conjure up his next film.
eria in the heart of piazzetta.
Splendido, a Belmond Hotel, Portofino
Splendido Mare’s sister property — just a quick, complimentary shuttle ride away — is a 16th-century monastery. This summer, families can switch from virtual to hands-on learning, where young guests learn to bake pizza and focaccia, take a watercolor class in the gardens, or sail along Tigullio Gulf aboard the hotel’s private boat. Parents can indulge at the spa with treatments that use some of the best ingredients of the Mediterranean, such as chamomile, sage and basil.
Cipriani, a Belmond Hotel, Venice
Once the greatest seaport in Iate medieval Europe and still one of the world’s oldest cultural centers, Venice has just turned 1,600. Giuseppe Cipriani — also the founder of Harry’s Bar, the birthplace of the Bellini that was inspired by the pinky golden hues over St. Mark’s Square — opened Cipriani in 1956 as a haven for jet-setting travelers. Guests can enjoy the only Olympic-sized swimming pool in the city and kids programs ranging from Venetian mask making to pastry lessons. Looking ahead, the property will introduce a three-day course, November 11-14, for exploring the ancient disciplines that traveled along the Silk Road, such as a masterclass on Kintsugi, the delicate art of fixing ceramics with gold, and traditional silk print workshops. Guests of the hotel will also have access to behind-the-scenes tours of the city’s libraries and archives throughout the season. During tours of the Fondazione Cini Library and the 13th-century Library San Francesco della Vigna, rare books and preserved manuscripts will be on display exclusively for Belmond guests.
Caruso, a Belmond Hotel, Amalfi Coast
Perched atop the highest point of the charming town of Ravello, at 1,000 ft above sea level, the 11th-century palace adorns Instagram feeds with its heated infinity pool. The historic property features 18th-century Neapolitan paintings, lush grounds with lemon and olive trees, and a two-suite Villa Margherita for those seeking extra privacy. Guests also enjoy access to Oplontis, an ancient Roman archaeological site, as well as the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Pompeii and Ercolano.
Villa Sant’Andrea, A Belmond Hotel, Taormina
Built in 1919 among subtropical gardens, the property enjoys its own stretch on the secluded Bay of Mazzaro, where private cabanas for up to four guests can be reserved. Hop onboard the historic Circumetnea steam train to Mount Etna for private vineyard tours to taste rare vintages and local delicacies, available only to guests of Villa Sant’Andrea. Lunch is prepared at the homes of Le Mamme del Borgo members, a group of local women honoring traditional Sicilian recipes that have been passed down through generations. For those looking for a more intensive retreat, wine consultant Tom Harrow will lead a three-day retreat September 30-October 3. Sister property, Grand Hotel Timeo, was formerly a private home and was converted into a hotel in 1873. The property is adjacent to the Greek theater, stretched along six acres of tropical gardens, with views on the Naxos Bay and Mount Etna.
Villa San Michele, a Belmond Hotel, Florence
Nestled on a hilltop amid lush trees and terraced gardens, the 15th-century facade is attributed to Michelangelo. Guests are invited to experience the delicate beauty and solitude of a monastery that is as much a part of Italy’s culture as the country’s greatest cathedrals and galleries. A Colorful highlight is a 400-year-old wisteria, the only one in Florence to bloom twice a year.
Castello di Casole, A Belmond Hotel, Tuscany
The 4,200-acre property is one of the largest private estates in Italy, nestled in Tuscany’s geographical center between Siena and Florence. A former castle dating back to the 10th century, it has changed hands from Italian aristocratic family to acclaimed cinematographer Luchino Visconti before joining the Belmond portfolio. Highlights include a dreamy alfresco dining option at the Enchanted Table, a floating table situated underneath the same tree where Italian director Luchino Visconti used to conjure up his next film.
May 12th, 2021
Alice Marshall Public Relations is proud to have two properties selected in Conde Nast Traveler’s annual Hot List; White Elephant Palm Beach in Florida and Paradero Todos Santos in Mexico. The editors at Conde Nast Traveler have handpicked their favorite new hotel openings of the past year to feature in the prestigious awards.
The 32-room White Elephant Palm Beach opened on November 4, 2020 and is housed in the former Bradley Park Hotel – originally constructed in 1924 as one of the first resorts on Palm Beach’s Main Street. The design captures the spirit of a grand home while maintaining the ambiance of a landmarked boutique hotel. Breaking from the bright pinks and greens that dominate the Palm Beach aesthetic, the White Elephant Palm Beach features a neutral color palette with sleek metal accents and vibrant pops of color. The hardwood floors, Carrara marble, elegant tiles and woven rugs are all interpreted with contemporary style. Guests are welcomed onto the property by a seven-foot white elephant statue by Santa Fe-based artist Fredrick Prescott. (A “sister” elephant statue, Trunket, is on the grounds of White Elephant in Nantucket.)
Paradero Todos Santos, a 35-suite property, opened on February 1, 2021. Less than 50 miles from San Jose del Cabo Airport, Todos Santos has 355 days of sunshine per year and has become increasingly popular as a relaxed surf town and a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Paradero is spread across five acres of untouched land that is situated within the last unspoiled Mesa farming community – an agricultural area comprising 160 acres of family-owned farms. Due to its proximity to the Tropic of Cancer, the immediate landscape offers five distinct ecosystems: the desert with 200-year-old Cardon Cacti, the Sierra La Laguna Mountain range, miles of virgin beaches along the Pacific coast, an oasis with 5,000 palm trees, and farmland as far as the eye can see. Because of this diversity, UNESCO has designated Todos Santos as a Biosphere Reserve – one of only two such sites in Baja.
Switzerland’s La Réserve Eden au Lac also got a special recognition in the ‘Where to Travel Next’ category of the awards following its recognition on the 2020 Hot List. The French Empire-style building dates back to 1909 and houses the only luxury hotel located on Lac Zurich.