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Interview: Valentina De Santis, CEO of Grand Hotel Tremezzo

Inspiring insight on the family-owned and operated Lake Como, Italy icon

David Graver

11 November 2024

Anyone who has been to Grand Hotel Tremezzo understands its allure—the colorful old-world charm, its glamorous perch along the banks of Lake Como, the warmth and sophistication of the service provided within. Many who have seen the facade from afar (or on social media) dream of one day visiting the Italian icon—for both its spectacular position, and its rich history as one of the world’s most recognizable grand hotels. Valentina De Santis, the CEO of Grand Hotel Tremezzo and a member of the family that owns and operates the property, knows that underscoring this historic magnetism is something modern. It’s not just the illustrious past, but a nuanced adaptability—from the grand hotel’s online boutique, Sense of Lake, to the continued development of wellness experiences. To learn more about Grand Hotel Tremezzo’s longevity, we spoke to De Santis for her inspiring insight.

For anyone who hasn’t been, how would you explain what Grand Hotel Tremezzo offers that cannot be found anywhere else?

It is unique in the sense that it is now—and has always been—a family-owned and operated property. When my family bought it from the founders over 50 years ago, we were inspired by the Gandola family’s dedication to innovation and a personal touch. They were pioneers in features like electric lighting and a tennis court, but they always made sure to make the guests feel extra special. So, we have continued in that vein—playing up the buzz of a grand hotel, with staff bustling about, exceptional cuisine, cocktails and amenities, but never forgetting to treat everyone who comes through the door as a treasured guest who deserves our special attention.

I believe the guests can sense that “something extra” in a family-run place. They feel the love and dedication of the many hands and hearts involved in making our properties what they are, and that always starts and ends with my parents and me. I think our family-oriented culture makes a big difference to the staff as well. The more detail-oriented we are, the more the staff will be. The more passionate we are, the more likely the team will exhibit that passion in their day-to-day work. The more we lead with love, the more that love will trickle down to every guest. For me, this is the secret to our success.

One would assume that most visitors tend to seek out a stay at Grand Hotel Tremezzo during the summer. What is it like during the other seasons? Do you have a favorite season?

Every season has its charm on Lake Como. I am partial to the springtime—right after we open in March—when our gardens are alive with color, though there still might be snow-capped mountains in the distance. The crisp mornings and slowly warming days invite guests to hike the hills behind the hotel; the views from the San Martino church are stunning! And you can visit Villa del Balbianello and other sights without the heat or the crowds of the summer. Oh yes, and the rhododendrons in our own garden and at our neighbors in Villa Carlotta in April have to be seen to be believed!

And then there is the fall. It can still be quite warm in the midday sun in October, and when the leaves start to change, the colors can be just as vibrant as they are in the springtime! Autumn is also the perfect time to sample the best in seasonal delicacies from chestnuts to truffles at outdoor food fairs in the region and in our own restaurants, when executive chef Osvaldo serves up the typical comfort foods of the season: polenta, mushrooms, pumpkin and more.

The food and drink program across the restaurants and bars at Grand Hotel Tremezzo is exceptional. What have you done to guarantee the quality of dishes and cocktails?

Grand Hotel Tremezzo is blessed with more dining experiences than you can count on one hand—and we always strive to make each a shining star in its own right. So, the variety itself is a unique selling point. They all have a few things in common—exceptional quality, outstanding service and an ambiance that elevates the food and drinks to something truly special—and they all have a few surprises up their sleeves!

At La Terrazza Gualtiero Marchesi, the only restaurant in the world offering the maestro’s most famous dishes, our Executive Chef Osvaldo Presazzi channels his former mentor with cuisine that “enhances the quality of the raw materials”. And Osvaldo makes sure to source those materials from the best suppliers, many of them local producers like Frantoio Vanini, making olive oil in Lenno in the sixth generation, or the Zanotta dairy farm, where the cattle feast on the wildflowers of nearby Monte Crocione. 

At L’Escale Trattoria and Wine Bar, guests enjoy traditional dishes and fine wines that showcase the best of Lombardy in a cozy, casual trattoria surrounded by the photo trouvées that I have been collecting from flea markets for decades. Da Giacomo al Lago sits right on the water, featuring fresh seafood enjoyed as it should be: al fresco with a beach-blanket-bingo Riviera vibe. T Pizza, on the other hand, offers an informal poolside escape, serving authentic Neapolitan pies sizzling hot from the wood-fired oven under the cool shade of our grandfather trees. And whether it’s an aperitivo on the terrace or a nightcap on one of the jewel-toned love seats in Sala Musica, T Bar is positively intoxicating even before our mixologists do their magic. For an unforgettable secret rendezvous, our Dimmidisì service chooses a secluded spot to make a guest’s special moment even more magical, whether it’s a proposal in a secret pavilion in the park or a candlelight dinner in the opulent halls of Villa Sola Cabiati. No two dining experiences are exactly alike at the Grand, and that’s just the way we like it: tradition blended with innovation and garnished with some unexpected surprises…

Your iconic pool sits directly upon Lake Como. What are other ways guests are allowed to access the lake?

There really is no better way to experience Lake Como than from the water. That starts with our floating pool, affectionately known as water-on-the-water or just WOW, which makes for a bit more relaxing dip than the actual lake around it (where a lot of boats are to-ing and fro-ing!), but it doesn’t stop there. Our fleet of lake cruisers offer the best seat in the house to watch the timeless Lake Como landscape go by, from our Venetian motor launches to our classic Riva motorboats. Our captains know every curve and cove of Lake Como’s 100-mile shoreline, so there’s nothing between our guests and an out of the way lakeside restaurant or a secluded swimming spot far from the madding crowd.

As you very well know, Grand Hotel Tremezzo is a family-owned property. What has the family done to honor its history but keep it relevant for contemporary travelers? I mentioned above that I believe that being a family-owned and operated hotel makes all the difference, not only to our guests, but also to our extended family, the staff. As the third generation of my family leading our hospitality business, I aspire every day to honour the legacy of my parents and my grandparents before them.They taught me to take care of our properties—in the deepest sense of the word—but also to approach hospitality like an entrepreneur, always seeing the guest experience with fresh eyes and always aspiring for more. And like them, I believe a big part of this is advocating for our destination as a whole. The culmination of that philosophy is our new property Passalacqua, which we as a local family acquired from its foreign owners—very different from most real estate transactions here! Restoring this lakeside landmark to its former glory and opening its doors to guests from near and far (echoing its 19th century origins!) is our way of giving something back to our beloved Lario region.

Of course, there are some elements of traditional hospitality that should—much like the beauty of our natural surroundings—always remain the same. It is our honor and privilege to be a part of this legacy and, as one of our key strengths, we must never forget it. But we cannot ignore the power of innovation, which keeps visitors coming back generation after generation. Innovation and tradition have to work together. We never want to introduce something new without making sure it is in line with our traditions. By the same token, we can’t avoid innovation simply because “we’ve always done things this way”. This goes beyond interior design, by the way, and extends to the entire guest experience: our standard of service, our interactions with guests, our range of amenities—striking the right balance between tradition and novelty is key.

We always try to stay true to our three pillars of Italianità, heritage and family, but in the end, hospitality is all about exceeding the guests’ expectations. And that does not mean always giving them what they want. We try to be creative and surprise our guests, so they are curious about what they might find at our properties. More often than not, the surprise is something very personal to someone in our extended family, a heartfelt vision of what makes a guest experience unforgettable.

Is there anything you hope people understand about Grand Hotel Tremezzo that might not have been mentioned yet?

Mainly, what I want people to understand is that hospitality is more than a job for us, it is our entire lives. And our properties are not just hotels, but our homes. Homes we are pleased to open to our guests. We put our heart and our passion into everything we do—and this does not just apply to me, but everyone on staff. Having an exceptional property is the first step, but it doesn’t end there. What sets us apart is how we put our heart, our passion and our personality into every guest interaction, from the warm welcome at the front door to the restaurants and rooms. Our goal is to give every guest the sense that they are in a place that is full of love, a love we cultivate so we can share it with them.

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Word of Mouth: Kyoto

From Hotel The Mitsui to Radio Bagel, WHISKY SPOT CHALMUN’S TOYBOX, the Path of Philosophy and more

Andrew Maness

6 November 2024

As the ancient capital city of Japan it’s no surprise to find Kyoto is home to more than 2,000 Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines, including 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Equally impressive is its natural beauty and the feeling of serenity that it brings with it. Surrounded by non-imposing mountains with a city center split into east and west banks by the Kamo River, it’s a relaxing metropolis compared to Tokyo and far easier for a first-time visitor to immerse themselves within in a matter of days. While tradition permeates all of Japanese culture and the reverence for history is especially palpable in Kyoto, there is an exciting creative energy in the city as well. During our visit we sought out the rhythm enjoyed by locals and travelers alike, which we found to be one of experimentation with traditions and classic refinement.

Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto

Located on the grounds where the executive branch’s Kyoto home once stood, the four-year-old hotel pays homage to the famous industrialist Mitsui family in name and by incorporating original elements of the home into the stunning property. Primary among these is the SHIKI-NO-MA, a room at the heart of the house where the changing of the seasons could be observed within the traditional Japanese garden of what was then known as the Abura-no-Koji Residence. Landscape designer Shunsaku Miyagi created a nearly 14,000-square-foot tribute to the original garden, complete with a suiban water basin, over-water walkways and plant features that instantly transport you far from the urban setting. The beautiful garden is but one of the many elements of Hotel The Mitsui that has a profound effect not only on your state of mind, but on your physical wellbeing.

From the moment you pass through the carefully restored 300+ year old Kajimiya Gate that once welcomed guests to the Mitsui residence, there is an understanding of how much thought has been put into all these singular moments. Hong Kong-based designer Andre Fu led a team of Japanese artists and designers in putting together a well rounded sensory experience that invites you to move through each space a little slower and drink in the details. It is contemplative; the spaces stay with you and invite you to return again at different hours of the day. Hotel The Mitsui feels like an incredibly stylish person’s home that you’ve been invited to stay at, that just happens to sit across from the 400 year old Nijo-jo Castle constructed by the Tokugawa Shogunate.

We enjoyed dining at the hotel’s signature restaurant, TOKI, which serves chef Tetsuya Asano’s take on French cuisine and utilizes Kyoto ingredients, notably the soft water for which the city is famous. This soft water is perfect for making flavorful dashi stock and growing vegetables with rich taste and aroma, both key to chef Asano’s French fond, soup stock made from vegetables and meat with a delightfully unforgettable taste. If a seasonally influenced, 12-dish meal with wine pairings isn’t what you’re looking for, there’s also FORNI, the more casual Italian-inspired restaurant on the opposite side of the property, which offers pizzas from a wood-fired oven and a variety of grilled meat centric dishes like bone-in Mangen pork loin from a farm in Shizuoka Prefecture.

Regardless of where you have dinner, a drink at The Garden Bar afterwards is a must, and the Hibiki whisky tasting experience highly recommended. We’d encourage you to visit the cavernous geothermal spa underneath the hotel or book one of the private onsens for maximum relaxation. There is of course an appropriately stylish gym as well if you’re intent on staying on routine while traveling. With all these amenities and such comfortable environs, one could easily be forgiven for not wanting to leave the property at all. However the central location makes quickly popping out to do some sightseeing a breeze.

Radio Bagel

Like so many things imported to Japan, Radio Bagel has imbued something foreign with extra craft and care, resulting in the elevation of a familiar product. In this case it’s simple ingredients carrying such vibrant flavors that a humble ham and egg breakfast sandwich left us contemplating a second order.

MOON and BACK Ramen Bar

Located near the buzzing Nishiki Market in the Nakagyo Ward, this ramen spot may not have the Instagram friendly authentic appearance so many visitors to Japan look for, but it does have unbelievably tasty broth and that’s really all that should matter. In addition to the ramen options they offer a signature Mabushi rice dish topped with Japanese wagyu that’s torched right in front of you to your desired level of char. With chef and owner Tatsuya Fukuda having lived in Australia for seven years, you’ll not want to skip the coffee or canelé options, the recipe for the latter having been refined through Fukuda’s time working as a sous chef at a French restaurant.

Sushi Matsumoto

As if walking the small, dimly lit streets of Gion after dark isn’t memorable enough, we encourage you to step out of your comfort zone and into the intimate Michelin-starred world of Sushi Matsumoto. This is traditional Edo-style sushi with two omakase menu options of 17 or 27 pieces that progress in flavor from light to strong. The floor staff is welcoming and informative, and the chef is intently focused on his craft. The result is a dining experience that one must be prepared to take in stride, especially if you’re traveling solo. The food is worth it, especially the tuna and conger eel, although the red vinegar rice alone would bring us back.

Gion Finlandia Bar

This elegant little bar in a former Geisha house doesn’t have a robust menu or background music, but that’s alright because you’re here for cocktails and quiet conversation. A Finnish Gin & Tonic is a smart place to start, but you can tell the bartenders what you’re looking for and they’ll deliver a fresh, creative drink that’s a pleasant surprise. We recommend trying the “Kashoan” from the signature menu, which brings together matcha, tequila and amaretto in a drink you won’t forget.

WHISKY SPOT CHALMUN’S TOYBOX

Just down the street from Hotel The Mitsui you’ll find one man’s passion for Japanese whisky, scotch whisky and Star Wars, expressed in a small space you could easily overlook. We certainly did on our first couple of outings before noticing the low street sign that invited passersby in for a small cover charge. Once inside your head will spin with the sheer variety of bottles and it’s best to go with a tasting flight, at least to start. Masashi has been building this collection for over a decade and he brings a deep wealth of knowledge about both Japanese whisky and scotch to the table, so you can trust his guidance, as we did when exploring flavor profiles and venturing into uncharted territory.

The Philosopher’s Path

Tracing its roots to a drainage line for Lake Biwa, this scenic footpath in the Sakyo Ward has had many nicknames thanks to its proximity to Kyoto University. Officially designated the “Path of Philosophy” in 1969 when a local group was formed to prevent the city from paving over the drainage line to create a road, the footpath has since become a major tourist attraction thanks to some 400 cherry trees (many of which date back to the early 1920s) and a number of shrines, temples and local businesses that it runs by. It’s only about 20 minutes to walk the whole thing, so we recommend taking your time to pop into various cafes and eateries, like Salon de thé Mercredi (for coffee, tea and sweets) and Juugo (for soba noodles). It’s also a great before or after option if you’re a hiker given its proximity to Mount Zenki and the trail network that leads to many waterfalls and ruins.

TOKINOHA Ceramic Studio

Visiting Tokinoha Ceramic Studio in the Yamashina Ward of Kyoto is a wonderful way to gain a full appreciation for Japanese craft and artistry. The studio concept is a collaboration between Daisuke Kiyomizu (part of the 240 year old Kiyomizu Rokubei line of ceramists) and his wife Tomoe. It is a place of learning, exhibition, practice and production, open to the public, but also available for scheduling private one-day lessons, as well as extended courses for those interested in developing professional pottery making skills. For our part we participated in a short lesson with Tomoe focused on “Kintsugi” (the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with urushi lacquer mixed with gold, silver or platinum dust) and got to bring home the small cup we repaired a chip in. In addition to the cup, we walked away with a deeper understanding of Daisuke’s mission to inspire a new generation of potters by bringing a workshop and retail concept together in one beautiful space. Both he and Tomoe are intent on fostering a more direct relationship between consumers and their pottery, asking that people consider what went into the creation of each piece by way of their products only being available for purchase at the studio or through their online store. It’s quite a departure from the mass-produced wares that dominate the marketplace, but knowing the people behind the pieces and what goes into their conception and eventual creation makes each use an undeniably special moment. 

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Inside Biarritz’s Playfully Elegant Regina Experimental Hotel

A cliffside, Belle Époque property with interiors by Dorothée Meilichzon

David Graver

29 October 2024

From Experimental Group—the international hospitality pioneers known for leading cocktail bars and beach clubs as well as impeccably designed restaurants and hotels—the Regina Experimental bridges the legendary surf scene of Biarritz with the luxury amenities of a five-star hotel and spa. Playfully elegant, with warm and welcoming service, the Regina Experimental does more than offer a spectacular view of France’s Atlantic coast; it embraces the spirit and style of the surrounding Basque region.

This location joins Experimental Group properties in Paris, London, Venice, as well as the Balearics, the Cotswolds and the Alps. “Biarritz has this perfect mix of classic elegance and cool, laid-back surf vibes. It felt right for us—somewhere you can have a great time but still feel grounded in the history and culture of the place,” Romée de Goriainoff, cofounder of the Experimental Group tells COOL HUNTING. “We love to have this mélange when choosing our next destination: chic yet cool and understated. A place needs to be strongly rooted in food and wine culture—that’s the Experimental ethos. That’s a key differentiating factor for us, and I believe very few brands manage to balance this mix.”

Even before entering the Regina Experimental, one is drawn to its stately facade and its towering position atop a coastal road overlooking the bay of Biarritz and Miramar Beach. “The moment I saw it, I fell in love,” de Goriainoff says. “The Belle Époque style is grand yet soulful, and being perched on the cliffs with that view? I mean, It’s just magic!”

Experimental Group tapped frequent collaborator Dorothée Meilichzon for the property’s colorful interiors. “She knows we love the mix of modernity and references to the past—a chic, relaxed vibe, but always uncompromising on the quality and originality of the materials, furniture and overall design,” de Goriainoff says. “At the same time, we’re opening a five-star hotel so the brief was also: don’t forget the fun! Don’t forget the surf!” 

The room interiors and the colorful lobby speak to the same sense of relaxed luxury that defines Biarritz. “We wanted people to feel at home but also to feel like they’re somewhere extraordinary—somewhere that can only exist in a hotel,” de Goriainoff continues. “It was a challenge to create a homey feel with such large atriums, but Dorothée managed to transform it into a giant, cozy living room.”

In alignment with the culinary allure of Biarritz, Regina Experimental’s team created the on-site restaurant Frenchie, a delicious destination unto itself for elevated yet casual dining. It’s helmed by chef Gregory Marchand. “With Frenchie, the motto is: It’s not Basque cuisine, but a cuisine of Basque products. One cannot pretend to be from the region, so we decided to honor the culinary culture by working with staples of local ingredients without offering strictly Basque cuisine” de Goriainoff explains. “There are already amazing places around the hotel for Basque cuisine. We provide a unique menu and food experience with Basque products, but it’s not a Basque restaurant.”

Directly beside Regina Experimental is a sister property from Experimental Group known as Hôtel Le Garage (named for the fact that it is a former Belle Époque garage). This design-forward property encompasses only 27 rooms and suites, a sun-soaked pool and a chic restaurant known as Le Neo-Bistrot. “Le Garage is our wildcard,” de Goriainoff says. “It’s where people can kick back, have a killer cocktail and really feel the creative energy of the place. It’s less formal, more about the vibe and very approachable.”

For de Goriainoff, it’s important that guests remember the spirit of Experimental Group. “People see the beauty and elegance of Regina Experimental right away,” he says, “but what they might miss is how much fun this place is. It’s not just for relaxing—it’s for connecting, being inspired, and having a great time.” From its distinct position, the property offers an eagle-eye view of Biarritz, yes, but it’s also close enough to the beach and town below that hotel guests can tap into that energy, explore the local surf scene and then ascend back to their exquisite stay.

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Word of Mouth: Napa Valley

Pairing wine tastings with a sense of adventure

Julie Wolfson

2 October 2024

With more that 400 wineries in California’s Napa Valley, planning an itinerary can be a challenge. Focusing on independent and family-owned wineries opens a window into boutique winemaking operations, inspiring architectural spaces, focused art collections and surprising vineyard experiences. Learning about their commitment to careful management of the land and living in harmony with animals, winemakers share a focus on water conservation, B Corp building design and natural abatement practices. In addition to offering tours of their vineyards and tasting rooms, the following wineries share their history and provide unique tastings with food pairings alongside a variety of activities that tell the story of the community.

Hollywood History at Frank Family Vineyards

Along Larkmead Lane, a name fit for a ’60s family sitcom, the Frank Family Vineyard brings some Hollywood history and glamor to the Napa Valley. Their newest tasting takes place in The Miller House, their modern farmhouse designed by the prolific architect Howard Backen, with versatile glass walls that reveal vineyard views. This experience highlights the depth and versatility of Frank Family estate wines—and includes a selection of their current release sparkling blanc de blancs, cabernet sauvignon and chardonnay, each paired with charcuterie and their favorite locally sourced cheese. Visitors can also opt for The Craftsman House Tasting, in their charming historic yellow house, for estate tastings held in two rooms with memorabilia dedicated to members of the Frank family. The Patriarch Room and The Patriarch Cabernet Sauvignon honor Rich Frank’s father, Hy Frank, and the family legacy of him landing on Omaha Beach on D-Day. The “Hollywood” room features images from Rich’s career as the former President of Disney and Leslie Frank’s work as an award-winning broadcast journalist.

Falconry in the Garden at Bouchaine Vineyards 

On the site of the oldest continuously-family-owned property in the area, Bouchaine Vineyards sits along the southernmost region of the Carneros AVA closest to San Francisco, Marin and the East Bay. Over the years this winery has grown into a leading producer of sustainably farmed chardonnay. In 2015, Chris Kajani joined the company as president and lead winemaker and has been recognized for her sustainability practices and award-winning wines. On Friday mornings, a feathery surprise perches in anticipation of visitors during their “Falconry in the Garden” experience. During this time, Rebecca Rosen shares an overview of how her birds serve an integral purpose in the vineyards. Her Harris Hawk and Peregrine Falcon take on the job of scaring away the other species that would threaten the grapes by gobbling up fruit before they fully ripen and are ready for harvest. To be up close with hawks, owls and falcons offers a window into the life of these majestic birds, who—when prompted with a morsel of food—will fly to the leather falconry glove. Rosen’s owl will also sit patiently for a photo as glasses of wine are served there in the garden.

The Backstage Tasting Lounge at Cliff Lede Vineyards

A visit to Cliff Lede Vineyards is a feast for the senses. Opened in 2002, this Yountville winery, helmed by general manager Jason Lede, not only showcases founder Cliff Lede’s focus on both producing estate wines but celebrates the music and art created by his favorite rock icons. Lede’s love of rock music informs every aspect of their winery, a theme evident from the tasting rooms to the garden patio and even to the vineyard blocks. The label for their Rock Block Series evoked the look of an amp. Their Private Appellation Tour & Tasting features a selection of estate wine in their Backstage Tasting Lounge where guests will taste vineyard selection cabernet sauvignons surrounded by Grace Slick paintings, John Lennon drawings and Lede’s collection of guitars played by Fleetwood Mac, REO Speedwagon, The Red Hot Chili Peppers and Muse. Wine tasting includes single vineyard, appellation series, platinum and library wines from their 60 acres of vines in Stags Leap District, 20 acres in Calistoga and 86 acres in Carneros. Their Napa Green-certified sustainable, Howard Backen-designed winery and tasting room are powered by a 300-kilowatt solar panel field with a three-tier sorting line, optical sorting machine and an extensive cave system to keep the wines cool. 

Merlot Mastery Experience at Sullivan [Rutherford]: 

The mention of merlot wine evokes opinions. For some it may conjure an immediate recollection of Paul Giamatti’s tirade in Alexander Payne’s film Sideways, after which one could feel the sales of merlot plummeting. Merlot, like any other wine grape, depends on the quality of the fruit and the talent and resources of the winemaker. At Sullivan they love Merlot and are deeply invested in growing the best grapes and crafting the most delicious wine. For anyone else who loves merlot or wants to learn why they should give this grape another chance, Sullivan offers a deep dive into the world. Here, merlot is king. The Merlot Mastery Experience showcases their love for the grape variety with a tour of their vineyard-to-bottle process and a tasting with winemaker Jeff Cole and owner Juan Pablo Torres Padilla. This immersive experience begins with one of their wines served side by side with European old-world producers of right bank Bordeaux and Italy’s Bolgheri to tell the story of the quality they aim for at Sullivan. It’s a bold move and an entertaining way to start the conversation. The tasting includes these three wines and a second flight showcases a vertical lineup of their flagship merlots with food pairings. 

Time Travel with the Gamble Family Vineyards

Booking a tour and tasting at Gamble Family Vineyard feels like a time-travel machine from the early days of the Napa Valley to glimpses of winemaking operations of the future. Gamble offers by-appointment only tastings that focus on the rich history and continued stewardship of the land and how they helped preserve Napa winemaking for generations. The tours take place in their original 19^th century homestead and feature horse barns and sweeping views of the valley floor. During the experience, visitors learn how the Gamble family was integral to establishing the Napa Valley Ag Preserve to protect agriculture in the area for future generations. Tom Gamble often hosts the tours, giving guests a unique look into the life and legacy of a Napa Valley farmer. Visitors may also get to see their newest vineyard vehicle, the fully electric Monarch MKV tractor. The tasting features a flight of four rare wines in their historic house. The childhood photo of Tom on the sauvignon blanc bottle offers another glimpse into what it was like growing up on the land where he continues the family legacy to this day. 

The Seasonal Wine and Food Experience Ram’s Gate

Easily accessible on a drive in from or back to San Francisco through the Sonoma Valley, Ram’s Gate offers a not-to-be missed food and wine pairing experience. The magic here is conjured in the stunning setting on a hill overlooking 28 acres of organically farmed vines of the Carneros AVA. The winery, with many dramatically appointed tasting spaces, was created by architect Howard Backen. It is one of his most majestic structures built with reclaimed wood. The bold interior design choices of Orlando Diaz-Azcuy make this setting one of the most idyllic places to reserve a wine tasting. Beginning with a tour focused on their estate farming techniques and the winemaking process, guests will then be seated for a five-wine guided tastings with each wine hand-selected by winemaker Joe Nielsen. These are drawn from their Cellar Note Series, Single Vineyard Wines and Estate Collection, coupled with specifically paired food courses from executive chef Ruby Oliveros. The culinary program highlights ideal pairings with seasonal ingredients to help guests learn how to match their favorite wines to the foods that will complement each other. Ram’s Gate also features a caviar experience, which pairs a selection from Tsar Nicoulai with Reserve wine flights. This seasonal pairing is part of a larger commitment to sustainability. Recently, owner Jeff O’Neill announced that they have officially received certification from the CCOF (California Certified Organic Farmers association) that their harvest this year will be the first certified organic vintage for Ram’s Gate.

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Inside Southern Utah’s Best Friends Roadhouse and Mercantile

A hotel for animal lovers, where creature comforts apply to humans and pets

Emily Gerard

26 September 2024

The spectacular landscapes of southern Utah have served as the backdrop for thousands of films since the 1920s—from wild west classics like Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid to recent hits like High School Musical. In addition to the movie buffs, the town of Kanab draws adventure-seekers and nature-lovers who come to enjoy the many nearby national and state parks—and Best Friends Roadhouse and Mercantile is the perfect home base to explore it all.

With 40 well-appointed rooms and suites, it’s a surprisingly chic, mid-century modern oasis in the middle of the area’s distinct red canyons. It’s also the sister property to the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, the nation’s largest no-kill animal shelter. And, if you’re the kind of person who thinks the worst part of vacation is leaving your pet at home, this is the place for you. The Roadhouse is not just pet-friendly, it’s pet-centric.

Continental breakfast is included with your stay and includes fresh-baked goods like banana bread, but don’t think about asking for cow’s milk in your coffee—the Roadhouse is strictly vegan. With each room named after a Best Friends animal alumnus featuring stories and photos to pull on your heart strings, even non-vegans might find themselves converted after spending time among such devoted animal lovers. 

Spacious, wood-paneled rooms, featuring tiled bathrooms and smooth-sliding barn doors, are thoughtfully designed to prioritize pet needs almost as much as yours. Dogs and cats get their own sleeping nooks or beds so you don’t have to share. Outside on the beautifully-gardened grounds, hotel guests gather in communal spaces to trade stories and recommendations. There’s a dog park complete with a splash zone, self-serve pet-washing and laundry stations, café, and mercantile with plenty of cute merch.

If your own pet doesn’t do so well with travel, you can even borrow one: the Sanctuary provides furry friends for those who want to take them for a sleepover. It’s a unique chance to combine your vacation with a vacation for a shelter animal, and gives them some much-appreciated individual attention while you get a snuggle buddy.

Even if you don’t have time to volunteer, head up the road to the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary for a tour. The property boasts stunning views—if you can tear your eyes away from the up to 1,600 rescue horses, pigs, bunnies, birds, cats and dogs enjoying luxurious care on the property. Their vegan lunch buffet is famous—and free for hotel guests.

A little farther afield is the state’s oldest and most-visited national park, Zion. Or, go the dog-friendly route and explore Coral Pink Sand Dunes state park together. On the hottest days, book a guided hike at Peek-a-Boo Slot Canyon with Dreamland Tours. The vibrant red Navajo sandstone walls, towering 80-feet high, act as natural air conditioning—making this the perfect outdoor adventure when you need respite from the sun.

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Palazzo Avino’s “Palace to Palace” Art Takeover

An exhibition dedicated to women’s empowerment, on the Amalfi Coast

Lucrezia Worthington

17 September 2024

When it comes to the Amalfi Coast, Amalfi and Positano often take the spotlight compared to their smaller, hilltop neighbor Ravello; but it’s precisely for this reason that Ravello has become a destination worth visiting for those seeking to escape mass tourism. Perched 365 meters above sea level, this quaint village boasts a panorama that sweeps the coast, over Minori, Maiori and extending southward toward the Cilento coastline. This vista is what you’ll wake up and fall asleep to at Palazzo Avino (where the best moment might very well be at sunrise, when the entire coastline is painted in pink hues). The hotel officially opened back in the 1930s, welcoming actors such as Humphrey Bogart and Gina Lollobrigida during the filming of Beat the Devil, as well as notable filmmaker Roberto Rossellini and his lover, the actress Ingrid Bergman. But it’s not until 1995 that the property was purchased by its current owners, the Avino family, who, from a state of abandonment, lovingly and carefully restored it to its former glory. 

Today it narrates the story of a family—the kind of family that takes into consideration every minute detail in order to unveil the secrets of this glamorous destination and one that treasures a world of culture, craftsmanship and savoir-faire. In fact, the property is that of two souls. The first is an ode to tradition—an aristocratic residence with a tapestry of Italian and French antiques, gilded details, ancient majolica tiles, Vietri ceramics and Moorish arched windows. The second is the integration of contemporary art and design, a direction that the Avino sisters (Mariella, Attilia and Mariavittoria) sought to weave into the property.

Architect and interior designer Cristina Celestino was the first to bring her avant-garde touch to the hotel, transforming seven of the 53 rooms and suites. She revamped them around three main color tones—aquamarine, coral, and sand—reflecting the essence of the Palazzo’s surroundings. Celestino also designed The Pink Closet, a luxury boutique opened in 2019 that features hand-picked items by Mariella.

The latest projects have been designed by Neapolitan architect Giuliano Andrea dell’Uva, who designed the prestigious Infinito Suite in 2023. Set across two floors, the architect restored the ancient tower of the palazzo, integrating designer furnishings by Gabriella Crespi, Gio Ponti, Hans-Agne Jakobsson and Ignazio Gardella. English artist David Tremlett was also commissioned for a site-specific work adding color to the vaulted ceilings and handcrafted ceramic-tiled floors. The suite’s color scheme aligns with Gio Ponti’s “Mediterranean Law” concept which underlines that “everything by the sea must be colorful.” Within the suite, breathtaking views pour out from the private terrace, as if you’re suspended between sea and sky. 

This year, dell’Uva also unveiled a new room with twelve more set to follow next season. This sea-view nook has been coated in chalk white, with splashes of pink and blue to recall the fantastic three-dimensional headboard created by Venetian artist Giulano Dal Molin. Next to the bed is the traditional Moorish arched window, iconic of the property, that looks out into the gardens and beyond. This particular style has been reflected by the architect as an arched, glass door to enter the bathroom. 

Furthermore, dell’Uva injected his contemporary vision to Rossellinis, Palazzo Avino’s one-Michelin-starred restaurant. In parallel with the aesthetic changes is the culinary format overseen by chef Gianni Vanacore. Diners will begin their culinary venture with a glass of champagne and amuse-bouche on the lawn before taking a seat at their table and the options of three different tasting menus with one common denominator: the dessert trolley. It shows up at your table post dinner with a delectable selection of regional delights including a slice of rose-scented pastiera, the art of Neapolitan pastry.

Within the spaces of the Caffè dell’Arte, the Avino sisters decided to create a living gallery, imbued with creative works that rotate on an annual basis. This year, until November 2024, Palazzo Avino has collaborated with Palazzo Monti, an artist residency in Brescia. The theme is one that marries the philosophy which guides the Pink Palace today: female empowerment.

As Mariella says, “Breathing life into the palace, infusing it with art, has been an enduring journey that has grown richer with each passing year. The idea that this year the project will shine a light on the female world of art holds even a deeper meaning for me, resonating with our DNA and family legacy.” The Palace to Palace art takeover, curated by the honorary director of Palazzo Monti, Umberta Beretta, celebrates femininity through emotion, creativity, exploration, color and inclusivity. This exhibition showcases the diverse perspectives of emerging international female artists through a collection of paintings, sketches and photography.

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Soho House Nashville Harmonizes with the Music City

An art and hospitality hub in the Wedgewood-Houston neighborhood

Julie Wolfson

16 September 2024

Walking among the red brick buildings of Nashville‘s Wedgewood-Houston neighborhood, classic marker signs honor the city’s manufacturing heritage. Fading painted sock company signage offers glimpses of the story that began there. It is here that Soho House Nashville inhabits the original May Hosiery Mills factory complex. May Hosiery was one of the largest employers in the 1930s, creating jobs for many Jewish refugees that the May family assisted in fleeing Nazi Germany. Operating until the 1980s the factory building then became studio space for artists. Now, with Soho House (which opened in late 2022) becoming part of the narrative, the architectural transformation preserves many historic details and highlights the work of Nashville’s arts community.

“The design and art collection honors the building’s industrial-turned-creative history,” says Soho House Nashville’s art collection manager, Anakena Paddon. “The purpose of the Soho House Nashville collection is to serve as a ‘love letter’ of sorts to the artists and makers of the city across so many different mediums and shine a light on current local talent.” The collection exhibits the works of 41 local artists throughout the building. At every turn, painting, photography, fabric and collage greet members and guests with pieces that shine a light on the prolific output of the local community. 

The art collection features artists born, based or trained in Nashville to showcase the talent of the city. “It is a chance to highlight people who are brilliant fine artists in a city primarily known for its music scene,” says Paddon. “And because of the expansive space of the building and the multi-hyphenate nature of many of the artists, we had the opportunity to acquire multiple pieces from most of the presented artists. This allows for a more meaningful representation of their work, as well as showcasing the evolving nature of an artist’s practice.”

They commissioned Yanira Vissepo’s ethereal “My Heavenly Bodies,” a fabric installation hanging in the Main Club. Lindsy Davis sculptures have been installed in the club stairwell, as well as paintings in the Sock Room. Paintings by John Paul Kesling, from very different eras of his work, range from smaller studies to the large-scale portrait in the reception area. The Soho House acquired some of Blythe Colvin’s early works, and commissioned her to make brand new custom pieces for the bedrooms that coexist with the industrial history of the building and luxurious interior design elements.

A large-scale portrait painting by Kesling titled “Long Neck Lindsy” greets guests at the entrance. This work was also part of a 2021 solo exhibition at the Red Arrow Gallery. “This piece in particular was chosen as it’s a portrait of another of our artists, Lindsy Davis,” says Paddon. ”It felt like a perfect way to set the intention at the guest’s arrival: that this is a creative space, built by creatives for creatives, with art at the crux of its soul.” Red Arrow also supported the collection curation for and helped them forge very relationships with our artists.

After originally being home to artist studios, the building has had several different uses and owners before being transformed back into a hub for artists and creatives. Several of the artists in the collection had had studios in the building during earlier iterations—including Caroline Allison, Yanira Vissepo, David Onri Anderson and Dane Carder. The Soho House Nashville regularly hosts art-focused programming, including an Art Crawl, which coincides with the monthly neighborhood arts crawl. Soho House Member Evan Brown creates art-centric events for the Art Club hosting a series on the business of art, intimate conversations with artists and offsite gallery visits. 

In a city known as a legendary music destination, Soho House has also become a favorite site for musicians to stay, dine, become members and attend music events. “Music is a key part of Soho House Nashville’s culture because it is an integral part of our city,” explains Hunter Claire Rogers, head of membership and communications. “And being in Nashville means we are spoiled for choice with artists writing, recording and performing here. We have enjoyed hosting music that spans all genres, having hosted well-known acts along with artists that are on the brink of being discovered.” Bands play in the Sock Room, Secret Garden and outdoor stages. 

A plush screening room seats about 60 plus people for film and television events, where they hosted a “Barbie” sneak peek and RuPaul’s Drag Race finals. The screening room has a state-of-the-art sound system and is also a popular place to plan record premiere listening parties. 

Guests of the Soho House have access to the member spaces when they reserve one of their 47 bedrooms that feature high ceilings, an array of glass, some with retro vanities or freestanding bathtubs in the main room. Bathrooms are spacious with industrial framed mirrors, large tiled shower rooms, and Soho’s plentiful collection of Cowshed products. Room touches include cocktail-making accessories, art books and vintage accessories. The restaurant, bar and multiple lounge spaces all open to house guests and members. The large gym space features TechnoGym equipment and natural light from the massive industrial windows.

In the Wedgewood-Houston neighborhood, it’s also easy to catch more live music at Flamingo Cocktail Club across the street. Don’t miss Bastion for their dining room which features tasting menus or hang at their casual bar for cocktails and nachos. Dicey Tavern serves pizza and wings. Gabby’s is the spot for burgers (you may stand in line with people who drove two hours to get their cheeseburger fix). Early morning head over to Dozen Bakery for their standout egg sandwiches, crispy croissants and loaves of freshly baked bread. The area also features beer breweries, a cider house and many places to explore within walking distance before venturing out to Broadway to see the lights and catch a show.

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In Litchfield County, 9 Academy Offers Bespoke Lodging

A thoughtfully designed, three-suite guest house in Salisbury, Connecticut

David Graver

12 September 2024

In the pastoral northwest corner of Connecticut, where Litchfield County runs alongside New York State’s Hudson Valley and the Berkshire Mountains of Massachusetts, the village of Salisbury epitomizes an all-season escape—from sunny summer weekends to its abundance of autumnal splendors, warm winter delights and hopeful spring blossoms. Situated along a side street in the center of Salisbury, 9 Academy is unlike any other offering in the region. This upscale guest house, which opened in late fall 2023, includes three multi-room, full-floor suites. It is owned and operated by Aidan Cassidy and Charles Teti, who—under their banner of their design company, Cassidy & Teti Interiors—imbued each space with a comfortable elegance, pared back but nuanced, cozy yet sophisticated. It’s here that guests will find a home-away-from-home experience with comforting touches—a reading nook, a balcony, a back garden—and all the conveniences modern travelers now desire.

“Both of us spent our entire working careers in the design field, myself in interiors and Charles as an executive in men’s fashion. We knew this area as weekenders for many years. We recognized there was a deficit of upscale hospitality,” Cassidy tells us over coffee at The White Hart, a historic Salisbury establishment that’s a brief stroll from 9 Academy. He adds that, as their children attend school nearby, they’d observed the town’s “proximity to so many world-class boarding schools, so we felt that there was an audience for parents who were traveling in from international locations.”

Cassidy and Teti bought the structure that houses 9 Academy in early 2021. “It was a fairly nondescript building. It was simple. It had been a historic building at some point but there was very little of that left by the time we arrived as someone had done a very large renovation of it in the 1980s,” he says. “We took it on for the location. We wanted to offer something that had a walkability to it. We wanted to be in the center of town because that’s an important component for visitors. People want convenience. We didn’t want to be out in the country.” During our stay at 9 Academy, we were able to walk to The White Hart for dinner, and to nearby Sweet William’s for morning coffee. We even stepped into the town’s general store for gifts. Salisbury’s enchanting ambiance envelops 9 Academy.

Each of 9 Academy’s three suites weaves in its own alluring attributes. The aptly entitled Garden Suite incorporates a private outdoor space. The second-floor Parlor Suite, where we stayed, features the aforementioned reading nook, as well as stairs to a backyard. A private terrace enhances the footprint of the third-floor Loft Suite. Two of the three suites include freestanding tubs, while the Parlor Suite’s spacious bathroom feels spa-like.

“We had a clear vision of the style,” Cassidy says. “We didn’t feel the need to duplicate the types of properties that were already available—be they Airbnbs or small hotels. We wanted to do something that was different, that had a more contemporary vibe. At the same time, we didn’t want people to feel like they were not in Connecticut. To do this, we focused on natural materials to make you feel a sense of place.” This manifested as lime-washed walls, soft white oak floors and a reserved use of concrete.

All three suites are equipped with full kitchens, washer and dryer units, as well as an array of homewares, cutlery, pots and pans, an iron and hairdryer. Extra towels were in a drawer; a closet held additional sheets and blankets. Everything felt considered—and all elements luxurious. “Part of it came out of a business sense that Airbnb has changed the hospitality industry,” Cassidy explains. “We could have carved the building up into much smaller units. Instead, we wanted to give people the sensibility that they get with a boutique hotel—fresh towels and nice linens and spa products—but we also wanted them to feel as though they were in an apartment for the weekend that’s bookable by the night.”

Ultimately, what Cassiy and Teti have established is a sense of home. There’s a spaciousness to the suites, and a flexibility to the purpose of several rooms, that allows them to accommodate families. There’s the attention to detail that runs from the online reservation system to the contactless checkin all the way to the interior design. “We are both designers so we have a high standard,” Cassidy says. “Guest experience is something that we innately felt good about. We knew we could offer that. We did the research but we also leaned into what worked for us as global travelers over the years.” The only challenge, however, is accepting that it’s time to leave.

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Notes: South Korea’s Sayuwon Arboretum and Architecture Park

What began as a preservation effort for 108 quince trees has transformed into a picturesque destination for contemplation

David Graver

6 September 2024

One year ago, I found myself standing among 108 quince trees on gently sloping land within Sayuwon, an arboretum and architecture park outside of Daegu, South Korea. I’d been anticipating the visit since my COOL HUNTING colleagues Josh Rubin and Evan Orensten posted a series of breathtaking Instagram images in May of that year. As an architectural tourist and sculpture park enthusiast—who has visited and written about Storm King, Tippet Rise, and Chateau La Coste—I became transfixed with the idea of finding my way to Sayuwon. Then Frieze Seoul, as well as an opportunity to stay with the culinary figure and monk Jeong Kwan, opened the door. In Sayuwon, after a lengthy drive from Seoul, surrounded by the quince trees, I paused and asked myself, “is this the most beautiful place I’ve ever been?” The answer is likely yes.

More than a garden for 108 quince trees, Sayuwon is a lush 330,000-square-meter arboretum and architecture park that’s set upon the Palgongsan Mountains. Visitors can start their journey at the top and trek down winding routes that vary in duration from one to four hours. Stunning vistas, tranquil ponds, and architectural interventions—from Pritzker Architecture Prize-winning Portuguese architect Álvaro Siza, South Korean architect Seung H-Sang, and more—offer moments for contemplation.

Jaesung Yoo, the chairman of Taechang Steel, began to develop Sayuwon 20 years ago—though it only opened to the public in 2021. “At first, it was just for the family,” his daughter, Ella Yoo, the chairwoman of Sayuwon, told me during my visit. “There was no intention to open it. When we first started construction, we did not have a masterplan. It was organic. It was spontaneous. My father says that if he had intended to make it a profit-driven project, it would have never happened according to his vision.”

Remarkably, it all began when Jaesung Yoo acquired four historic quince trees that were set to be exported to Japan. “When my father found out, he decided he would not let it happen,” Ella explained. “He said, whatever price, I will pay it. He bought them back. The youngest quince tree that he bought was 300 years old. The oldest was 657 years.” Jaesung Yoo acquired more and his act of preservation continued to grow.

As for the region—which, to many, may feel quite remote—Ella shared that her father spent years exploring South Korea to find the ideal location. He chose Gunwi-gun because the population of the province itself is diminishing yet nature is flourishing. “This is the epitome of South Korean mountains, rounded and tree-covered,” Ella said. “The main concept of Korean gardens is borrowed scenery. We borrowed the mountains. Sayuwon was landscaped to see the mountain in its most beautiful form—and within the property, you have the extended scenery beyond that no one owns but it is seen in the context of the land. It is everyone’s.” 

“It was just open mountains,” she continued, “and we tried to preserve what already existed—but many of the trees and plants have been introduced.” In addition to the vegetation, Jaesung Yoo oversaw the introduction of the architectural marvels. “My father strongly believes that architecture should not present an obstacle to see nature,” Ella noted. “You must first see nature and then something architectural.”

Four primary architects contributed to the park. Jaesung Yoo invited Carlos Castanheira and Siza from abroad because he wanted to imbue an international intrigue into the destination. “The overarching concept is eastern but he wanted it to be friendly to all visitors,” Ella said. She has observed that there is a very clear stylistic different between the architects. “The western architecture, it’s visible,” she said. “The eastern is often invisible. It blends into the nature.” 

Siza’s work ranges from the intimate, one-person chapel known as Naesim Nakwon to the looming, concrete masterpiece entitled Soyoheon. The latter is an art pavilion that Siza had originally designed as a spec project to house Picasso’s “Guernica” and “Pregnant Woman.” When it didn’t seem to have tangible traction in Europe, Jaesung Yoo told Siza that he could bring it to life at Sayuwon. Siza was intrigued as “Guernica” is a depiction of the brutalities of war—and the mountain upon which Sayuwon stretches was a battle site during the Korean War.

Perspective shifts inside of Soyoheon—in a way that’s almost impossible to grasp. Some areas conform to the scale of the human body, others sprawl outward and upward. In place of Picasso pieces, Siza set his own immense sculptural works in the low, natural light. Though Soyoheon lends itself to subterranean sensations, it is also oriented out toward a vista—though, not as obviously as the Sodae/Miradouro observation tower, which was conceived by Siza as a partner piece to Soyoheon. It rises more than 20 meters into the sky.

Through her tenure, Ella has introduced more purpose-driven places to the grounds, including two restaurants. She also transformed the site’s first-ever property, her father’s vacation home, known as Hyeonam, first into an intimate restaurant and then, last year, into a tea house. Hyeonam (pictured in the hero image of this story) provides a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains. Here, alongside my colleague Julie Wolfson, I sat for a cup of quince tea that was produced on site at Sayuwon.

“I want you to think of Sayuwon when you are lonely or having a hard time,” a guide said just prior to our departure. And often I do. I think of our small tea ceremony in Hyeonam, overlooking uninterrupted forest. I think of the tiered Pungseol Gicheonyeon garden and its 108 quince trees. I think of how far Sayuwon feels from my home in New York City. And, for a year, I’ve thought about how I need to share my love of Sayuwon so that others can find there way to its splendors.

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Interview: Erica Jackowitz, Co-Founder of Rêve Travel Club

Insights on the future of travel from the visionary behind the membership-model luxury lifestyle concierge, Roman & Erica

David Graver

3 September 2024

In 2009, Erica Jackowitz and Roman Chiporukha cofounded Roman & Erica, a first-of-its-kind, high-touch luxury lifestyle concierge service. Through their expertise, organizational prowess and extensive network, Jackowitz and Chiporukha have worked to maximize the leisure time of their ultra-high-net-worth clients, and bring their dreams to life along the way. Their suite of capabilities ranges from securing impossible dinner reservations to planning remote travel—and they do so through a membership model that, for their clients, is like taking on an assistant dedicated to the leisure needs who works as an intricate part of their team. Jackowitz and Chiporukha are not a third party; they’re practically in-house.

As the acclaim of Roman & Erica has grown, Chiporukha has since co-founded SpaceVIP—a pioneering space-travel organization developing off-planet pursuits (including, right now, a Michelin-star chef’s dinner in a balloon at the edge of space). Chiporukha and Jackowitz also founded Rêve Travel Club, a travel-only spin-off of Roman & Erica. With this organization, Chiporukha and Jackowitz can reach more people by passing some of the logistical work to their team after leading creative with their clients for an initial quarter dedicated to experience ideation and planning. Rêve Travel Club has become an immediate success and channels the profound capabilities of Chiporukha, Jackowitz and their growing team.

To learn more about Rêve Travel Club, we sat down for a spirited, insightful conversation with Jackowitz.

In conversing with you, it’s easy to understand your level of expertise in the travel and lifestyle sectors. What is this expertise the result of?

Firstly, and most importantly, we actually live the lifestyle, and experience all that we curate for our clients. It all comes from first-hand knowledge, which allows our clients to trust us implicitly. We personally travel for about six months out of the year uncovering the hidden gems while also putting on our party shoes and dancing—loudly—at the world’s best spots and doing everything in between. To this end, I often find myself in conversations with potential new members who are unhappy with their current lifestyle and/or travel solutions and ask them: have you ever met the people planning these moments for you? Have you wanted to go grab a drink or dinner with them and hang out? Almost 90% of the time the answer is “no.”  They’ve been working together for 10+ years and have never met. What a funny thing that is. The person you entrust with your most valuable asset—your time—should be someone who uniquely understands you.

How do you maintain this enthusiasm for travel that’s very evident when meeting you?

Experience is something I am in constant search of. It is an absolutely unquenchable thirst for me. I am quite taken by the once-in-a-lifetime experiences, but perhaps, more importantly, I am continuously mesmerized by the beauty of life’s simplest moments. For example, the way a magnificent sunrise or sunset captivates and makes the whole world stop and look. Taking a bike ride through a city so you can feel the city, elicits all of the five senses rather than seeing it through a car window. Timing things the right way so you are the only one there, making it feel like the world is yours and yours alone. My enthusiasm comes from my own zest for life and life experiences. For me, no day is ever the same.

You invented the lifestyle management model with your company Roman & Erica. Can you talk about this model—what it allows you to provide, and how you’re able to provide it?

With Roman & Erica, we created the lifestyle management model almost 15 years ago. We are the first ever “Lifestylists.” We looked at many of the models out there back in 2009 and they had either a mass market concierge appeal and/or were replete with undisclosed hidden costs and heavy percentages added on top of any and all services. All of this didn’t make sense to us. 

First, how could you have a super-exclusive service and secure a dinner reservation at the latest hotspot if you’re charging annually what is essentially the cost of a luxury handbag? That means there must be dozens of calls per day from that company for that 7:30/8PM spot and not only do the hosts get annoyed but who gets precedence? There are a lot of people that can afford a service like that, so obviously the service has to be diluted and the client is not getting that reservation anytime soon unless a 5PM or 11PM reservation time sounds like a win to you? 

Next is transparency. Wealthy people have made their money for a reason. To not respect that and charge 20-30% on top of things like a last-minute car service reservation because they think no one’s watching is just stupid. We go for loyalty all day every day and, while I am sure we could have racked in a lot more money over the years had we followed the lead of many others before and after us, transparency is far more important to us and builds a kind of trust with our clients that keeps them coming back year after year.  

With these things in mind, we scaled back the number of clients we would manage and raised our costs charging an annual “salary” for our services that is commensurate with the level of dedication required. Growth has been organic and by word of mouth for the better part of the last decade, allowing us to control our numbers, and staff our team, accordingly—ensuring that they are appropriately trained in our way of doing things prior to taking on their first client. We charge more than anyone else because we dedicate more time than anyone else, have the best interests of the client in mind always, and have no other financial motivation.

With Rêve Travel Club, you’re further expanding access to your capabilities. Can you share a little bit about this model and what you hope to achieve here?

Well, the Roman & Erica lifestyle membership is a very limited model and we can only service about 30 or so families at a time. As we very rarely have a breakup, we are quite limited as to the number of new members we can service since Roman or I serve as their direct account manager available to them 24/7. We also like it that way, to be honest. When it comes to their leisure, we are their first call and we become a necessary part of their lifestyle and, at the end of most days, actual friends! On average, most of our clients have been with us for 10+ years. 

Over the years, we have been approached considerably for one-off travel needs by family and friends in our network as a result of our reputation in the industry. No model out there really inspired me as to how I could service the needs of those who were looking for a solution for only their travels versus their lifestyle as a whole. That was until the idea of Rêve Travel Club came to me about a year-and-a-half ago. Most importantly, I didn’t need to look to anyone else’s model for inspiration, I only needed to look at my own! 

Can you imagine that people have consultants they pay to give them advice in every single facet of their lives, from lawyers to accountants to interior designers, party planners, money managers, etc?  Yet literally the one thing in their lives that they work toward—their leisure time with their family and friends—they leave in the hands of a person on the other side of the 1 800 number they call on the back of their credit card or to a travel agent they don’t actually pay seriously? Then they proceed with expectations that everything they desire will be all set because the person they booked through gets paid by the hotel? To be clear, that person gets paid 5-10% from the hotel which is a joke considering the amount of time it takes them to get a spa reservation confirmed! Do you really think they have the time with this sort of model to dedicate to you given the number of people they must service just to make a living? It’s an absurd model. 

Those that are happy with these free services, diluted with so many members that the consultant has to prioritize quantity over quality work, should stick with it. For those who actually want to be able to simply show up to their travels with every detail planned and considered, every desire acknowledge and anticipated, confirmed and reconfirmed so that all you have to do is enjoy—then for the first time ever, Rêve Travel Club offers clients a solution. Moreover, that solution comes at a cost that can be less than what a weekly housekeeper costs. What could possibly be more worthwhile than not having to think while on vacation and take an actual break from it all?

Based on your observations, what are luxury travelers looking for in 2024 that they weren’t looking for before?

Availability! Wealth is at an all time high and, in a post 2020 Covid world, advanced planning is something that is here to stay. I talk about this often but what happened to travel in 2020 was that those that had bookings for 2020 were rescheduled to 2021. In 2021 people went to book for the current year and were sold out of dates and/or accommodations they wanted. Then in 2022 those people planned way in advance so that others were sold out. Thus a pattern of advanced planning began and I believe it is here to stay. 

A result of all of this advanced planning is that luxury travelers who once booked things on a whim with under two weeks’ notice are now often not able to get what they wanted. It’s about finding creative solutions that surpass what the client may have thought they wanted. That’s part of the fun!

Is there something that travelers aren’t looking for that they should be?

Enriching and unique experiences even in destinations that they often frequent! I am a big believer that, while you could go to the ends of the earth and beyond—see Space VIP—you can also do things in your travels to places you frequent in order to make them more exciting and something out of the ordinary. Just please don’t be boring. If you are going to St Tropez, try jet skiing in the canals of Port Grimaud. Go beyond the party in St Barth’s and hike in the mornings. Take a vintage Segway tour of Rome at night when it’s lit only by city lights! Climb a Via Ferrata one morning in Lake Como! Be weird, be different, and most of all, have an experience in time and place that will remain with you, always. A view from the top in and of itself is not by itself enough!

What are you providing that people can’t get elsewhere?

An unfiltered realness that uniquely syncs with their desires. Everything we do has a real feel because we have really felt it!  We only recommend the things we ourselves experience and do not recommend those that we didn’t enjoy and are just as vocal about them. We enable them to just show up to their travels and lifestyles, which is something that doesn’t exist elsewhere. 

When a client comes to you and says, “this is my dream,” how do you start to turn that into a reality? How collaborative is it, or do most clients put it in your hands?

Rêve actually means to “dream” in French so this question is quite apropos! How we make these dreams a reality really depends on the client! Some want to be involved in the process and some do not. No matter where they fall along that spectrum, our client intake and subsequent conversations help us get at what they are looking for and curate experiences accordingly. The questions I ask may sound simple but have been developed so strategically that they allow for maximum insight into who the client is and what they truly seek—even if they don’t yet know that themselves. We are in the business of delivering things on a silver platter. For some, they wish for that platter to be one of curated choices and for others, it is one that is more of a final itinerary that shocks and surprises.