Lifestyle and Adventure
Interview with Velocity founder Zia Yusuf
The Sybarite spoke to Zia Yusuf, co-CEO of Velocity - a London based app that allows us all to "dine and dash”.
It was a particularly patience-testing restaurant experience which saw former Goldman Sachs man, Zia Yusuf, and his childhood friend Alex Macdonald forced to wait 45 minutes for the bill - that led the Londoners to create Velocity.
The smartphone app which - despite only having launched in January 2014 - has already changed the way we dine out. In a nutshell, Velocity lets you find a restaurant,...
Read the full story
More Lifestyle and Adventure
Featuring The definition of a 21st century business Club – 12 Hay Hill
Between work, meetings, office drinks, visits to the gym and time with friends, we’ve become more reliant than ever on venues that can combine all of these under one roof. One of London’s most exclusive business clubs is 12 Hay Hill in Mayfair. The Sybarite caught up with Chief Executive Simon Robinson to find out more about the club and its offering. Importantly, 12 Hay Hill is not restricted to one service, it functions in many different ways but without sacrificing quality or style. Simon explained “what’s interesting about 12 HayHill is that we are different. There are many, many institutions in London – and in Mayfair particularly – you have hotels, restaurants, bars, and office blocks. What is inspirational about us is that we are a hybrid of them all, and in essence we are a wonderful place to work. That is where it starts from, for me.”
Health is the Ultimate Luxury: Meet Clajah Bricce
Growing up in London surrounded by the buzz of a hard-working city that never sleeps, Clajah found herself particularly inspired by her aunt, whose demanding schedule made keeping healthy an absolute must. As a singer working with the likes of Eric Clapton and Stevie Wonder, Clajah’s aunt was constantly on the go, and she relied heavily on her fitness to be able to do her job. Even at such a young age, Clajah says she “wanted to be just like [her]” and really understood how important working out and eating well was for peace of mind, as well as body. Unsurprisingly, Clajah went on to study Biology, Nutrition and Exercise Physiology at university, further equipping herself with the necessary knowledge to make her business idea a very healthy reality. She loved the variety and complexity of the clients she took on “working with children and families, celebrities, sports figures and high powered executives”, all with a range of different health objectives. She now has more than 20 years of experience in the international health sector.
Where to celebrate Chinese New Year in London
In short, it is two weeks of constant eating, merriment and customary rituals. 2016 is said to be the ‘Year of the Monkey’, specifically the 'Fire Monkey'. Zodiac observers will expect “an element of vitality, a little bit more power and energy” in the year ahead. For those born under the Monkey sign, the upcoming year is expected bring more “focus” and a lot more “attention to detail” in all that they do. Although Asian in origin, the festive period has become universally acknowledged and celebrated, meaning you won’t miss out, no matter where you are in the world. Here's our top ‘picks’ of the best ways in which to celebrate in London:
Featuring Sneak Peak: The Oscars ‘Swag Bag’ is here
The fabulous people, couture outfits, high-profile events and celebrity gossip are already making it into the media. Next on our radar is possibly the most famous awards ceremony in the world. The 88th Academy Awards is set to take place on the 28th of this month and will be hosted by comedian and actor Chris Rock. Arguably the souvenir every guest would like to get their hands on is the highly renowned golden statue. However, seeing as our acting skills aren’t quite up to scratch, we've decided to turn our attention to the next best thing - the Oscar-worthy goodie bag. No A-List celebrity will go home empty handed as each will receive one of these ‘swag bags’, the ultimate metaphor for the surreal nature of the Hollywood lifestyle - this year rumoured to be worth a staggering $200,000. So what could possibly be in such a goodie bag to result in such an amount you wonder? It’s a far cry from a balloon and a slice of cake, but then again this is Hollywood, and here’s a sneak peak…
Dreaming of the Maldives? Feel inspired by these two...
This private island is your definition of an escape, of your ‘nowhere-to-be-found’ and where you can be indulgent with discretion. The Cheval Blanc Randheli was conceived by its architect Jean-Michel Gathy and invites you to “experience French Art de Recevoir”- or in other words the art of hospitality. Unlike other villas of the sort, Cheval Blanc is a completely secluded lagoon offering a rare experience for its discerning guests. If you ever considered holidaying on your own private island and haven’t done so yet, you might wish to consider Cheval Blanc Randheli Owner’s Villa. Stretching over 8000 sqm and only accessible by private berth and jetty, Owner’s Villa is a four-bedroom luxury abode with a 25 m outdoor pool, Jacuzzi, crystal clear beaches, lush gardens, and a spa to match.
Sybarite Life: Hofit Golan frolics in the Maldives
She was joined with friend and model Mathilde Gøhler, designer and actor Mariano Di Vaio and composer Remee S. Jackman - we've seen her swimming in crystal clear water and leisurely strolling down the beach, looking fabulous in different bikini styles. Take a look for yourself.
Featuring Luxury meets history in the heart of Venice
From cabarets to banquets, masked balls to classical concerts, the city comes to life in a celebration of Italian culture. The global appeal of Venice continues to grow but it still remains one of the most unspoilt cities in Europe, with its beautiful piazzas and winding canals. And now there is a new reason to visit the city, and maybe never leave again, after paying a visit to the new luxury apartments recently developed and now on the market. The importance of preserving the city’s oldest buildings has been honoured in the award winning development of Palazzo Molin, a 15th Century palace, into eighteen individually designed apartments. Classic Venetian architecture has been combined with contemporary design and facilities to create a modern haven in a traditional space. The facade of the palace has not been altered, it still showcases the Gothic Fiorito style which is widely celebrated for its artistic importance.
Own a private vineyard home and, if you choose, let...
Production plots start at 7,000 sq. m. and owners will have the freedom to control the use of their vineyards, whether producing their own wines guided by Casa de Uco’s experienced winemakers or renting out their vineyards for a yearly profit. What we find most appealing about Casa de Uco is that it offers wine connoisseurs the opportunity not only to own a private vineyard in one of the best regions for winemaking, but also to avail themselves of the resort’s expertise. Wine experts will be on hand to guide proprietors through the entire process – from harvesting young grapes to handling the business and profit-making side of things. Owning a Casa de Uco private villa is an idyllic experience: Nestled within the vineyard and surrounded by amazing vegetation and picturesque views of the Andes Mountain, the villa comes with round-the-clock concierge service, offering hotel-like hospitality. Some might consider this a fine way to retire.
Featuring Reserve a luxurious dinner at Royal Albert Hall’s Coda...
This time, the theme is ‘Amaluna’, ‘an island ruled by goddesses and guided by the cycles of the moon’. The plot: ‘Their queen, Prospera, directs her daughter’s coming-of-age ceremony in a rite that honours femininity, renewal, rebirth and balance which marks the passing of these insights and values from one generation to the next. ‘In the wake of a storm caused by Prospera, a group of young men lands on the island, triggering an epic, emotional story of love between Prospera’s daughter and a brave young suitor. But theirs is a love that will be put to the test. The couple must face numerous demanding trials and overcome daunting setbacks before they can achieve mutual trust, faith and harmony.’
Cars in the making: An exclusive experience for Lotus...
It is offered subject to availability, due to unsurprisingly high demand. The experience, known as ‘Handmade in Hethel’, is self-explanatory, as Lotus cars are handmade in Hethel. Lotus customers will have the opportunity to witness Lotus sports cars in the making at the company’s Hethel headquarters, which is also where they will excitedly receive their brand new vehicle straight from the factory. Customers may choose from two Delivery Experience options.
Featuring Create your own Swiss timepiece
But what if you had all the quality components in front of you, a Swiss watchmaker beside you to guide you in creating your own genuine Swiss timepiece? Not only will you have made it yourself, but the learning experience will certainly enhance your knowledge in watchmaking technique, beauty and tradition.
Featuring A different kind of escape in the Loire Valley
An estate spanning 1400 acres takes you back in time to a place of complete serenity, nature and purity – even pictures don’t do justice to the beauty of Les Bordes. Located in the heart of the Loire Valley, the estate is made up of the 20th-century Château Bel Air featuring eight suites, a restaurant in a glass orangery and a cigar, whisky and wine bar. In addition to a cosy clubhouse, there is a spa and wellness centre under the canopy of trees, accompanied by swimming pools, tennis courts and a gym. Need more convincing? How about lighting up a fine cigar while sipping on some rare whisky complemented by a delectable meal in the Club du Baron? According to Les Bordes, ‘It’s the feeling of homecoming as you sink into an armchair beside grand, leaping fires. The way the outside world fades away – and all that matters are the people around your table.’ But if you would rather take refuge in a good book or a play a game, the clubhouse has a library and games room.
Learn more about luxury lifestyle by signing up for free
For our latest experiences and editorials, be the first in the know. You'll learn about upcoming experiences happening worldwide and the secrets and lifestyle of a sybarite.