In Search of Perfection
As the sun rises a cacophony of bells ring throughout the whole of Florence, it was time to check out of our hotel set deep within the centre of the city. This first stage of our journey would be undoubtedly the most challenging, as my F430 and the other two cars accompanying us (a Ferrari 599 and a 430 Spider) had to navigate through busy, central Florence to the nearest petrol station.
Felix Dennis
Felix Dennis has a lot of everything. He has a lot of money (so much, in fact, he can’t count it, but let’s say Ł700M, give or take the odd Ł50M), from a lot of publications (more than 50 magazines and websites in UK and America), earned over the last 30 years with a lot of backstory (the crack cocaine addiction isn’t the interesting bit, it’s the fact he got himself off it, cold turkey, on his own, in 6 weeks, flat).
Serenity in the Seychelles
Meditating upon the madness that is flying today, it’s hard to recall the beautiful things in life when withstanding the relatively restricted comforts of a 12-hour flight. But all this dissipates into thin air once the airbus begins its decent down towards the Indian Ocean, and glancing wistfully into the aeroplane’s familiarly meagre oval window, one proceeds to stare across into the heavens mid-flight or to smile smugly in childish awe at the Lilliputian-sized toy towns that seem to reside so peacefully beneath the wings.
La Cenerentola
What better time is there than the festive season to embark upon a pilgrimage to London’s finest opera institution, where lofty tones and intricately-crafted songs are uttered with exacting dexterity and harmony, amidst the dramatic dome-like backdrop where audiences meet operatic stars in all their vocal glory.
The Coast of Dreams
Looking out from the balcony of Noriega’s Punta Paloma show apartment in Manilva at the glass like Mediterranean Sea, you would almost think that the scene had been retouched in Photoshop. The sky is clear blue, matching the sea with its colour saturation, and with the sun burning at a very nice 75 degrees Fahrenheit, you would be mistaken for believing it was the height of summer.
Sugar Suite London
A few issues ago we wrote briefly about a new development right on the edge of the City of London called City Quarter. At that point only the first stage of the project had been completed; a new build block which offered a great location in a well designed building.
Spitfire Training: Part II
As the Spitfire sliced skyward with the roar of the mighty Merlin thundering in my ears I couldn’t help sneaking a glance at the evocative elliptical wing. I’m back in the cockpit of a Spitfire – but this time I’m sitting in the front! Can it get any better? I’ve waited two years for this moment, but as I merely think about turning and the Spitfire responds to my every whim, I know it’s been worth the wait!
Breakfast at Normas
While in the US recently, Lusso supremo Dan Sharp gave me a particularly tough assignment. “Our US agents have reported that Norma’s make the best breakfast in New York. Your mission Dave” he continued “is to find out if this is remarkable claim is true!” Armed with nothing but a keen appetite and a hungry photographer, I set off to find out for myself.
Kersefontein
OK, so a lot of people visit Cape Town – and why not, it is a great city after all. But how many of those visitors venture outside of the city for more than a few hours to get a bit tipsy on the local wine? Not quite so many I would guess. It is a real shame, because one of Cape Town’s attractive features – its cosmopolitan European feel – is also one of its biggest weaknesses.
The Supercar I Never Wanted
I sold my 360 two years ago. I couldnt believe I did it – at the time it was the best car I had ever driven. Fast cornering, amazing engine sound, super revvy engine, fantastic Italian styling, great seats and a cool attitude.
Jenny Packham
Designer Jenny Packham has to be one of the UK’s most successful exports in the fashion industry. Internationally renowned for her fantastic collections of breathtaking dresses, Jenny’s designs have graced many red-carpet events, with a star fan base that includes Keira Knightly, Sarah Jessica Parker, Halle Berry, Beyonce and Helena Christensen.
The Panerai Classic Yacht Challenge
I had an argument with a fluid dynamicist the other night at my son’s Boy Scout barbeque. In recounting my recent, unforgettable, trip to see and sail some of the world’s finest classic yachts I asserted that they were living proof that yacht making is still an art not a science.
Panerai expand to New York City
Luxury watch manufacturer Officine Panerai is just about to open a boutique store in New York City, to add to their American presence in Los Angeles.
Ferrari to launch convertible 430 Scuderia – the 16M
It's been rumoured for a while now, but it seems Ferrari are to release a Spyder version of their hardcore 430, the Scuderia. This will be called the 16M and limited to 499 vehicles. The car is to commemorate the company's 16th F1 constructor's title.
Issue 15, Available December 2008.
Travel Special
The ultimate in peace and quite. Lusso Magazine investigates the best island resorts in the world - it's a tough job, but somebody's got to do it.
Ultimate Toys
Super yacht tenders, powerboats, motorbikes and super cars, we serve up the usual dose of high octane machinery.
And the regulars...
Brian Ebbesen, Arash Farboud, Nick English and others all share their views
Moving Fast Under Sail
“It′s nice to read about something you probably will never experience in your lifetime. I try...” By James Brown 26 November 2008
The Value for Luxury Market
“No really Doug, More ego please. LOL. Sorry, but it′s a great joke to aggravate you about b...” By James Brown 26 November 2008
The Value for Luxury Market
“Doug Richard said:"Which brings me to my first nomination for the “Value Luxury Market” wh...” By James Brown 26 November 2008
