Open for Business - Club Platinum Partner Villa Monaco - the Principality’s Luxurious Neighbour

Villa Monaco is built on a rare property of 4,000 sqm overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. A former olive plantation became the home of the luxurious resort Villa Monaco.  Villa Monaco is placed in a context of peace and protection – monitored by a sophisticated alarm system with a mainhouse and a separate guesthouse, which allows you to have your family and friends or business partners next door – at the same time ensuring your privacy.

Villa Monaco comprises 6-7 bedrooms in total, all with their own bathroom. The bedrooms at Villa Monaco are facing a spectacular sea view, are air-conditioned and they all have their own balcony. They are spacious and designed with elegance in white and beige colours.

Villa Monaco has sunbeds for 14 people with striking views over the sparkling Mediterranean sea. There is a large heated infinity pool and an outdoor area that is perfectly suited for watching the sunset over the neighbouring peninsula of Cap Ferrat The big trampoline for 6 people is so much fun for the entire family. The table tennis is fun for young and old.

At Villa Monaco, life takes place around a large heated infinity pool, but in every corner of the property are areas that can be prepared for dining, lounging or as needed for guests. Sit and relax in absolute tranquillity or venture out to discover Monaco and its surroundings. Bubbly Monte Carlo is around the corner and only 5 minutes by car.

Contact us directly via our inquiry form, or send us an email, and book your holiday today.
Prices and rates are available on request.

Villa Monaco
9 Chemin des Eucalyptus
06320 Cap d’Ail
+33 680 864 109
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A British Icon Reborn - Aston Martin Returns to the 2021 Formula One Grid with Cognizant as Title Partner

With anticipation building for almost 12 months and a monumental amount of work undertaken behind the scenes, Aston Martin is back in Formula One. The new era has officially begun.

We couldn’t be more excited to finally reveal the first look at our new identity while setting out our vision for the journey ahead. And what better way to begin the new age than by welcoming a new title partner, Cognizant, an American multinational IT brand with ambitious plans to broaden its global reach.

The team will be known as Aston Martin Cognizant Formula One™ Team when it lines up on the starting grid for the new season.

In a sport where technology and innovation take centre stage, Cognizant will play a key role, not merely as a sponsor, nor even as a behind-the-scenes service provider, but as a true digital transformation partner with a real purpose. The multi-year association brings real energy to the new era of Aston Martin in Formula One with Cognizant ideally placed to empower the team with the best IT infrastructure and software solutions on the market.

Today’s news coincides with the first elements of a brand-new website going live and facelifts to the team’s social media channels, with greater insights than ever before coming soon to the official Aston Martin Formula One™ Team Instagram Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, TikTok and LinkedIn channels.

Over the coming weeks, we’ll be taking you behind the scenes allowing everybody to share in the excitement of seeing the first Aston Martin to race at a Grand Prix weekend in more than six decades.

In March, we’ll be unveiling our car livery to the world at Aston Martin’s global HQ in Gaydon, including the introduction to our driver line-up, featuring four-time World Champion Sebastian Vettel and multiple Grand Prix podium finisher Lance Stroll.

Lawrence Stroll, Chairman, Aston Martin Cognizant Formula One™ Team:
“The return of Aston Martin to Formula One after more than 60 years away is a landmark moment in the history of the sport. Everyone knows what Aston Martin stands for, but the Formula One team will allow us to take the essence of the brand to new places, building on the strong foundations laid by the previous iterations of the team. I’m hugely proud that we can start this new chapter with the support of Cognizant. In today’s world, as the digital revolution continues, I can’t think of a more suitable or valuable partner to work with us as we strive to make Aston Martin one of the greatest teams in the sport.”

Brian Humphries, CEO of Cognizant:
“We are absolutely thrilled to be the title partner of Aston Martin Cognizant Formula One™ Team. Our global brands have much in common. We are both innovative, forward-looking firms that like to move fast, stay focused, and lead from the front. We understand the incredible power of today’s advanced technologies and how to harness them to engineer unique customer experiences. We’re excited by the promise of this deep and mutually beneficial partnership.”

Otmar Szafnauer, CEO & Team Principal, Aston Martin Cognizant Formula One™ Team:
“We’re just two months away from the start of the season, so it’s fantastic to celebrate the new era of Aston Martin in Formula One by welcoming Cognizant as our title partner. Innovation and technology are central pillars for any Formula One team and this long-term partnership is more than just a branding exercise. With a new factory already under construction, Cognizant’s expertise and resources will add value in all areas of our IT operations and make a valuable contribution to our performance on-track.”

Jefferson Slack, Managing Director – Commercial & Marketing, Aston Martin Cognizant Formula One™ Team:
“This is a really special moment as we welcome Cognizant as the primary partner of the Aston Martin Formula One™ Team. As we take this iconic brand back to the pinnacle of racing, it’s hugely motivating to have the support of a true powerhouse in Cognizant, a Fortune 200 company with nearly 300,000 employees. It’s a multinational that’s making a real impact across the globe with great vision from Brian Humphries and the senior leadership team. Cognizant will be integral to our future success and a partner in the truest sense unleashing its capabilities as a digital transformation agent. Like Aston Martin, it’s a company with aggressive targets and ambitions, and will flourish in the global spotlight of Formula One.”

Sebastian Vettel, Aston Martin Cognizant Formula One™ Team, Driver:
“I can’t wait to start working with Aston Martin Cognizant Formula One™ Team. There’s so much for me to discover over the next few months and I’m incredibly determined to help make this team even more successful. Before we know it, we will be at the first race, seeing this famous name back where it belongs. I’m proud to be part of this journey.”

Lance Stroll, Aston Martin Cognizant Formula One™ Team, Driver:
“Seeing Aston Martin back in Formula One is a huge deal - especially with a new title partner, Cognizant. Whenever I’m at the factory, you can feel the buzz and energy. We’re ready for this. There’s so much hunger in the team and I just can’t wait to get the season started.”

About Cognizant:
Cognizant (Nasdaq-100: CTSH) is one of the world’s leading professional services companies, transforming clients’ business, operating, and technology models for the digital era. Our unique industry-based, consultative approach helps clients envision, build, and run more innovative and efficient businesses. Headquartered in the U.S., Cognizant is ranked 194 on the Fortune 500 and is consistently listed among the most admired companies in the world. Learn how Cognizant helps clients lead with digital at www.cognizant.com or follow us @Cognizant.

About Aston Martin Cognizant Formula One™ Team
After more than 60 years away from Formula One, Aston Martin returns to Grand Prix racing in 2021. With one of the most iconic emblems in the world emblazoned above the garages and a team of over 450 passionate men and women at its heart, this is a team with both a rich heritage and a fresh perspective – bringing new energy to the sport with a determination to shake up the order and compete at the sharp end.

A growing family, where like-minded people from all walks of life are encouraged to be a part of our journey and given a platform to thrive, our mission is to use the global platform of motorsport to engage a new wave of fans – showcasing the technology and innovation which live at our core while representing the values that resonate with the changing world in which we live.

The new age of Aston Martin Cognizant Formula One™ Team begins here.
www.astonmartinf1.com

Follow the Aston Martin Cognizant Formula One™ Team
Twitter: @astonmartinf1
Instagram: @astonmartinf1
Facebook: /astonmartinf1

Relax in Culinary Heaven at our Partner Relais & Châteaux Bela Vista Hotel & Spa in the Algarve Region of Portugal

BELA VISTA HOTEL & SPA ***** | RELAIS & CHÂTEAUX

Bela Vista & Spa is a top-of-the-line five-star hotel in the Algarve region of Portugal, perched on a rocky outcrop above the famous « Praia da Rocha » beach.

This prestigious Relais & Châteaux hotel also boasts gourmet dining at its « Vista Restaurant, » a recurring Michelin star winner since 2017…The hotel is located next to the lively town of Portimao, a hotspot for nightlife and shopping. The Portimao region abounds with cultural sites and golf courses…and Faro International Airport is just 90 minutes away from the hotel via the Faro highway (direct access).

The main building – the « Palaceto » – is a historic residence built at the beginning of the 20th century. This ancient mansion is an iconic site and a testimony to the history of this region in southern Portugal.

In 2011, the « Palaceto » was completely renovated and redesigned by a famous architect by the name of Graça Viterbo. The original structure – as well as the original Portuguese style « azulejo » paintings – are perfectly preserved and maintained. Today, the Bela Vista & Spa is beautifully designed with modernity and authenticity. In addition to the « Palaceto, » two further buildings on the grounds, the « Casa Azul » and the « Casa Jardim, » allow the hotel to offer a total of 38 rooms.

Bela Vista Hotel & Spa ***** (Algarve, Portugal). Relais et Châteaux

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Discover the Ports of Monaco - Including the New Port of Ventimiglia, a Soon-to-Open Port at Mareterra and Famed Port Hercules and Fontvieille

Spectacular scenery, luxe amenities, legendary casinos and a lavish lifestyle have long been Monaco’s drawing cards. In addition, the prestigious principality on the Mediterranean Sea is also known as a premier destination for the world’s most luxurious superyachts. The city-state is home to the legendary port of Monaco, Port Hercules, Port Fontvieille, as well as a new port in Ventimiglia and the soon-to-be-completed Mareterra.

A Guide to the Ports of Monaco

Port Hercules
Thousands of international yacht owners and industry executives make it a point to attend the annual Monaco Yacht Show, the world’s premier superyacht exhibition at Port Hercules, the largest port of Monaco. More than 100 superyachts are featured, along with some 600 vendors throughout 42,000 square metres of exhibition space. For those arriving by yacht, whether for the show or as part of a luxury Mediterranean yacht charter, sailing into this famed Monaco port is an event in itself.

The port, just west of the new Mareterra (formerly Portier Cove) marina is one of the few deepwater ports on the French Riviera and serves as the gateway for yachts to the principality. The natural bay is at the foot of the majestic Rock of Monaco, which towers 62-metres above the sea and is the ancestral monolith of the princes of Monaco. Improvements to the port in recent years include a new sea wall, offering protection from eastern swells and providing the perfect berthing location for large pleasure craft.

Port Fontvieille
Further south is the modern harbour of Port Fontvieille, which was built from reclaimed land in 1966. The Monaco port has berthing space for some 160 vessels up to 30-metres in length and with a maximum draft of three-meters. Port  Fontvieille offers a selection of amenities, including restaurants and shops, while its location is within striking distance of Monaco’s famed attractions. Adding extra convenience, this port of Monaco is also just a stone’s throw away from the Monaco heliport.

Monaco Port Ventimiglia
Meanwhile, with the increasing lure of luxury sailing, Monaco has recently expanded its ability to host yachts with the opening of the port in Ventimiglia, just 79 nautical miles (15 to 20 minutes) from its sister marinas at the ports of Hercules and Fontvielle. From Cala Del Forte Ventimiglia, yacht owners and guests will have easy and exclusive access to Monaco, where they are welcome to enjoy all that the principality has to offer.

The port in Ventimiglia hailed the arrival on Oct. 15 of the much-loved sailing yacht TUIGA, the flagship of the Yacht Club of Monaco. The marina’s official inauguration is scheduled for mid-2021, when construction work on land is completed. Meanwhile the waterfront is open, and the state-of-the-art marina is already taking berth reservations.

A New Port at Mareterra
Additional berthing space will also be available at Monaco’s future marina at Mareterra, a port made possible by an ambitious eco-friendly $2.3 billion land reclamation project. The luxury development is scheduled for completion in 2025.

The new marina will be able to accommodate more than a dozen vessels of up to 18-metres, and will feature a host of restaurants and shops, ensuring plenty of opportunities for lively and entertaining outings. Overall, the 6-hectare eco-development will encompass luxury residences, expansive gardens, a promenade and recreational space.

Cruising to the welcoming ports of Monaco, whether it be Monaco’s port in Ventimiglia, Port Fontvieille, or famed Port Hercules is always a grand event.

Image courtesy of Cala del Forte
Article by Judith Isacoff

Aston Martin DBX Voted ‘Best-Designed Car of the Year’ by a Sunday Times Reader's Poll

Aston Martin Lagonda’s first SUV, DBX, has been awarded the ‘Best Designed Car of the Year’ at The Sunday Times Motor Awards. While the shortlist is drawn up by judges at News UK, the winners are chosen by readers votes.

Will Dron, Editor of Driving.co.uk at The Sunday Times said, “A brand traditionally associated with sports cars had a tough job on its hands creating its first SUV, but the fact that Sunday Times readers voted the DBX their favourite design of the year — against some truly stunning competition — is a clear indication that Aston Martin got it right first time. Congratulations!".

The Aston Martin DBX was first revealed in November last year and sees the British brand compete in a new segment of the global luxury market for the first time. Built on a new dedicated platform in a purpose-built manufacturing facility in St Athan in Wales, DBX remains distinctly an Aston Martin through both its engineering and design: From the signature grille at the front, through the sculptured sides and design feature line, to the tailgate flip that draws inspiration from the brands most focused sports car, Vantage.

Marek Reichman, Aston Martin Lagonda EVP and Chief Creative Officer said, “We are delighted that Aston Martin DBX has been awarded by readers of The Sunday Times for its design. We designed DBX as we would a sports car, but its unique platform gave us the freedom to create an SUV with stunning performance and design and to be awarded Best Designed Car of the Year makes us very proud of what we have achieved ”.

The Aston Martin DBX is available to order now. Recommended Retail Price from £158,000* in the UK.

The. Monaco Launch
Two Aston Martin DBX SUVs will be showcased by Aston Martin Monaco at the Club Vivanova Sixth edition Luxury Lifestyle Charity Gala Dinner on Saturday 12th December 2020. Link to more information on this event

Exceptional Apartments and Luxury Villas for Sale in Mauritius - Legend Hill Estate Opens in 2023

Our luxury villas, nestled in the vast Legend Hill estate, boast a revitalising view over the lagoon and Le Morne Mountain. This special setting gives pride of place to daylight and truly magical Mauritian sunsets.

We offer three lines of villas: Blackstone, Chamarel and Bengali, all of which constitute the perfect place to recharge your body and spirit. They feature luxurious living spaces, spacious living rooms, an open kitchen, a cellar, 4 bedrooms and bathrooms, a laundry room and a dressing room. The refined décor featuring raw and natural materials provides a perfect sense of relaxation and wholeness. The exterior does not fail to impress either with its private terraces and infinity pools which make it the place to be.

At the heart of the landscape, intimate, sophisticated and far from the hustle and bustle, our villas are the promise of a heavenly setting where man, his home and nature coexist in perfect harmony.

Legend Hill features 52 properties suspended between mountain and ocean. This fully secured resort makes your comfort its priority by offering high-end services: club house, concierge service 7 days a week, a gourmet restaurant and a fine dining restaurant, cocktail bar, fitness club, Salin de Biosel Spa and a Kids Corner. All 23 villas feature stately beachfront living spaces which extend onto outdoor terraces and private infinity pools in perfect harmony with nature. Nestled in a comfortable and luxurious setting, these luxury villas feature a contemporary interior decoration true to Mauritian tradition.

The 16 apartments feature spacious areas, a bright décor and spacious balconies overlooking lush vegetation for a rejuvenating experience.

Legend Hill also offers 9 Boutique-Hotel apartments for sale with access to the resort’s facilities. Lastly, 4 penthouses offering the promise of an enchanting lifestyle complete this luxurious estate. The panoramic view over the lagoon and Mauritian nature match the unparalleled beauty of these luxurious homes.

Link to more information

New Platinum Partner Villa Monaco is Monte Carlo's Luxurious Neighbour Offering an Exquisite and Secluded Travel Experience

Our new Club Vivanova Platinum Partner Villa Monaco is a high class villa, located next door to Monaco, which offers leisure and business visitors an entirely unique experience. The villa is a harmonious blend of luxury, tranquillity and seclusion and is located only a 3 minute drive from the vibrant & dynamic life of Monte Carlo.

Villa Monaco is built on a rare property of 4,000 sqm overlooking the Mediterraneansea. A former olive plantation became the home of the luxurious resort Villa Monaco.  Villa Monaco is placed in a context of peace and protection – monitored by a sophisticated alarmsystem. Villa Monaco has a mainhouse and a separate guesthouse, which allows you to have your family and friends or business partners next door – at the same time ensuring your privacy.

Together with Club Vivanova, Villa Monaco will be launching a series of exclusive and exquisite culinary events. Dates to be announced. See more about Villa Monaco at their partner feature.

Villa Monaco is a Club Vivanova Platinum Partner
View our Villa Monaco Feature

New Partner Monvigliero Villas in Piemonte Offers Luxury Villas in the Heart of Barolo Wine-Making Country

MONVIGLIERO VILLAS

The Monvigliero Vineyard Villas sit among a premier Barolo cru, surrounded by the dramatic UNESCO World Heritage vineyard landscape. A sojourn here takes you up close and personal with the timeless traditions of Barolo winemaking as well as the region’s fabled gastronomic treasures. Enjoy all the luxuries of home as well as special touches to indulge all your senses.

The Villas are owned by the historic Scarpa Winery in Nizza Monferrato. Since the early 1900s, Scarpa’s portfolio has centered around the Piedmont wine region’s royal grapes: Barbera of the Monferrato and the Langhe’s noble nebbiolo grape used for Barolo and Barbaresco wines.

Cascina Monvigliero, 28
12060 Verduno CN, Italy

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New Phoenix Hotels Partnership - a Collection of Exclusive, Luxury and Intimate Four and Five Stars Hotels

PHOENIX HOTELS COLLECTION

Club Vivanova welcomes a unique collection of luxurious hotels. Phoenix Hotels Collection is composed of a selection of several exclusive, luxury and intimate 4 and 5 stars hotels. Thanks to Phoenix Hotel team know-how and his CEO expertise – Thierry Naidu – guests receive a personalized welcome and benefit from the organization of a large palace in a moderately-sized home. All Phoenix hotels boast uniquely styled rooms and continually refined cuisine.

Pheonix Hotels Collection Philosophy - A place, a feeling, an experience:

We offer luxurious and impeccable service with a radiant smile.
We appreciate and pamper our guests.
We place the utmost importance in the quality of our cuisine (three Hotels members of Phoenix, are starred Michelin restaurants. Chevre d’Or, Bela Vista and SPA and Saint James).
We share the history of our hotels with our guests and preserve their own identity.

Our team has been dedicated to luxury hotels for almost 30 years and throughout our careers, we have visited new properties, tested ideas and worked with others to create the escapades of your dreams. We hope to share the pleasure of discovering new stunning places with you and help you enjoy a unique and above all unforgettable experience. We choose our hotels with love, all the while thinking of your future vacations in France, Morocco, or Portugal. From 2022, a new opening in Mauritius Island as well…

Vivanova Luxury Magazine Features
Bela Vista Hotel & Spa ***** (Algarve, Portugal). Relais et Châteaux
Château de la Chèvre d’Or ***** (French Riviera)
Château Le Cagnard ****, Haut-de-Cagnes (Cagnes-sur-Mer)
Kempferhof Golf and Château Hotel , Plobsheim (Alsace region)
Legend Hill Hotel ***** - FUTURE OPENING 2023 – Mauritius
Riad Villa Blanche ***** - Agadir, Morocco
Saint-James Hotel **** - Bouliac, Bordeaux - Relais et Châteaux affiliation

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Experience The Vatican Necropolis with Inspire Me Travel

“Every time I visit the Vatican I find myself in awe of the magnitude of the Basilica and the historical  beauty of the Art in the Sistine Chapel. But never in my wildest dreams did I think my Vatican experience could get any better until I was fortunate enough to be invited to the Necropolis. Here I felt as if I was in some kind of time warp, that I had travelled back through the centuries, this experience was so overwhelming I had goose bumps the whole time!"

“Let me tell you a little about the Vatican Necropolis, not to be confused with the Vatican grottoes. The Grottoes are located above the Necropolis, just below the Renaissance Basilica and above Constantine’s 4th century Basilica. The Vatican Grottoes contain chapels dedicated to various Saints and tombs of kings, queens and Popes, dating from the 10th century.

The Vatican Necropolis lies under the Vatican City, at depths varying between 5–12 metres below Saint Peter's Basilica. The Vatican sponsored archeological excavations under the Basilica in the years 1940–1949,  these excavations under the Vatican City revealed an amazing find. A necropolis, dating back to the 3rd century! It unearthed a world of treasures; numerous Mausoleums were discovered, each classified with different letters. 

 The necropolis was not originally one of the Catacombs of Rome, but an open air cemetery with tombs and mausolea; it was the resting place of St Peter, buried here after his martyrdom in ca. 64 AD. Despite laws protecting the Necropolis, the Emperor Constantine planned to build a Basilica on the site of St Peter’s final resting place. He had the area excavated, with orders to preserve St Peter’s tomb. The rest of the Necropolis became submerged in soil and debris during the construction, and largely forgotten.

Later, in the early 2000s, more of the Necropolis was uncovered during the building of a car park.  The tombs under the Vatican are spread through 22 Mausoleums, and lead right through to the famous Field P. It is here that the apostle Peter is believed to be buried at St Peter’s Tomb. The location is directly below the altar of the world renowned St Peter’s Basilica. 

The Vatican necropolis tour is an exclusive experience, with entry on special arrangement only. Vatican Scavi reservations are definitely hard to come by! Inspire Me Travel is incredibly fortunate to have an arrangement with our Italian agent to have access to these tours.  The essential requirement is to always book in advance!  No more than 200 people per day are allowed to visit the Necropolis, in contrast to the 25,000 people per day who visit the Vatican itself. 

Please note though, the conditions inside the Necropolis aren’t for everyone … it can feel quite claustrophobic! Therefore, you can count yourself part of an exclusive group of people who have seen the remains of St Peter! You’ll just have to get past the Swiss Guards that guard the Vatican Necropolis entrance first!”

Article by Karen Slater
Inspire Me Travel

Aston Martin Monaco Launches the DBX on 14th November at the Vivanova Gala in the Fairmont Monte Carlo

Aston Martin Monaco launches their first luxury SUV, the new DBX in November at the Club Vivanova 2020 Luxury Lifestyle Gala on Saturday 14th November at the Fairmont Monte Carlo

Aston Martin’s first SUV, the DBX, is a new kind of Aston Martin, one founded on the principles of beauty, luxury and driving dynamics. Ready to go anywhere, it’s powered by the spirit of adventure.

Built on brand-new architecture, DBX is designed to carry occupants in true Aston Martin style. Brimming with the latest technology to keep you safe, DBX is comfortable, sumptuously luxurious, and will thrill you from the moment you sit behind the wheel.

Our luxury SUV maintains a proud heritage as an Aston Martin DB: the initials belong to David Brown, the man who defined Aston Martin and whose vision continues throughout the company to this day.

Don’t miss this exceptional opportunity - more information and book tickets online at this link.

2020 LUXURY LIFESTYLE CHARITY GALA DINNER
Saturday 14th November 2020 . 7pm
Fairmont Monte Carlo . Salle d'Or Ballroom
Dress code . Black tie formal

BOOK TICKETS ONLINE
€200 per person . €300 VIP Ticket
€2800 Gala Partner Table for Ten

Columbus Crossover 40: Are you ready for the next voyage?

Columbus Crossover 40: Are you ready for the next voyage?

The Columbus 40 Crossover is the smallest model in the yard's Crossover range, designed by Sergio Cutolo from Hydro Tec, which also includes a 50-metre and a 57-metre.

All photos:  Palumbo Superyachts / Columbus Yachts

The Sun Deck is intended for social life and is characterised by a sunbathing area, towards the stern, and an area for observation with a sofa facing the bow.

In the middle, covered by the hard top, we find the outdoor dining / cocktail area, with a large bar on the straight side and a dining table on the left. The hard-top houses a characteristic "crow's nest" from which you can enjoy a 360-degree view.

This model was born from the need to accommodate, even on yachts of fairly compact size, tenders of a size comparable to those of much larger yachts and, at the same time, to adapt to a new lifestyle that makes the boat a private island on which concentrate all the activities of the holiday. The 40 Crossover, for example, can accommodate tenders up to 8 metres in length and 2.5 tons in weight on deck, as well as a whole series of “toys” that are normally supplied to yachts of this type.

The two socialising areas, the deck saloon and the sky lounge, are characterised in such a way as to become, respectively, the main saloon and the formal lunch / dinner area. In particular, the dining room located on the upper deck develops full width and opens to the side, creating a cantilevered loggia over the ocean. The owner's suite is traditionally arranged towards the bow, on the main deck, while the four guest cabins are located below deck in the central area of the hull.

About Columbus Yachts
Palumbo Superyachts began to take root in 2008, when the Columbus Yachts brand was established, and in 2011 launched its first 54 metre superyacht, emblematically christened “Prima” (“the First”). In early 2019, the shipyard launched the new flagship Columbus Classic 80 metre M/Y Dragon which joins in the Columbus star-studded fleet with the award-winning Sport Hybrid 40 M/Y Divine, the 57 metre M/Y Taiba and the 40 metre M/Y Eleonora III.

Article by Rebecca Whitlocke

DJG . A New Port of Call – Yacht Parties & VIP Events

DJG . A NEW PORT OF CALL

YACHT PARTIES & VIP EVENTS
In a region where elegance rubs shoulders with hedonism, entertainment options on the French Riviera must be a showcase for excellence.

Amid a spectacular calendar of private and corporate events, Club Vivanova speaks to one of the professionals who asserts himself as a memorable addition to the yearly schedule of VIP events and yacht parties during Cannes Film Festival, Monaco Grand Prix and Monaco Yacht Show.

Gary Smith, professionally known as DJG, inspires listeners with his uplifting energy as he plays soulful house music to global audiences. “Being an international DJ, I have worked with some fantastic brands including Stars and Bars Monaco where I play during the Monaco Yacht Show to Virgin Sport and Kate Spade New York,” Gary says. DJG is a regular fixture at the Oscars, Golden Globes and top events on the French Riviera.

Did DJ’ing or Music Production come first?

I took music lessons as a child – learning to play the clarinet and drums – so music has always been a strong focus for me. Growing up, I was influenced by blues, jazz and reggae and played at friends parties before concentrating more on DJ’ing. Producing followed later.

This year has been a rollercoaster for events with venue cancellations and travel restrictions affecting live music. What methods have you used to adapt and how do you deliver the same atmosphere when you can’t be physically present in person?

I have been fortunate in past years to travel across the world to famous cities and social events. I’ve performed at the Golden Globes and last year we were invited to perform at Durkin Entertainment’s Oscars pre-gifting suite at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Los Angeles. This event garnered over 2.2 billion media views from local Los Angeles media such as The Hollywood Reporter, Hollywood Life and KTLA 5, to globally viewed platforms such as Entertainment Tonight, BBC America and The Daily Mail. I have hosted Instagram takeovers – including the Superyacht Brands page – where I can share my music, regardless where people are located in the world. Digital platforms such as Twitter, Mixcloud and Zoom give me the ability to host online parties and keep entertaining.

Where do you get inspiration from?

Music is a respected medium that has become so much more than production or innovation. It breaks down language and age barriers, whether you’re at a high-profile event or a local gig. My family is a source of inspiration for me – my wife films each performance and my son is a dancer. As well, my 89-year old mother has a generous nature and this greatly impacts my motivation to make people happy!

How do you view the relationship between social media and musical expression?

Social media is constantly changing so we have to adapt. It’s another avenue to reach listeners of all genres. Music is about emotion and you can ignite a memory, cheer someone up or educate an audience.

What’s your favourite track of all time that never fails to get a great reaction?

Over time, my music tastes have evolved so it changes day-to-day, but I still love playing Jill Scott’s “Golden”(Soulful House Remix).

What are your hopes for your career in the next 12 months, especially with venues and live events in limbo?

I’m looking forward to exchanging my skills and expertise with world-class brands and trying to launch my music into feature films and television productions.

Superyacht owners, luxury brands and royalty are all drawn to entrepreneurial people. It’s crystal clear that DJG’s celebration of life through music is his recipe for success in the entertainment industry.

For more information have a look at the website 

Article by Rebecca Whitlocke

Countdown to the Crossing : Calvi - Monaco Water Bike Challenge

MONACO WATER BIKE CHALLENGE

This Saturday 12th September, team Serenity and team Notorious will depart together on water bikes from Calvi Harbor in Corsica, intending to reach the Principality of Monaco the next day in a 180kms water bike race for charity. This unique challenge aims to raise awareness about drowning prevention and water safety. H.S.H. Princess Charlene and Conor McGregor (Irish retired professional mixed martial artist and boxer) held a training session in preparation for The Crossing : Calvi – Monaco Water Bike Challenge.

The race will oppose team Serenity, led by H.S.H. Princess Charlene, to team Notorious, led by Mr. Gareth Wittstock, General Secretary of the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation. The start is scheduled on Saturday, September 12th at 2 pm at the Quai d’Honneur of the port of Calvi. Departure time is subject to change depending on weather conditions. In relay, the members of each team will be able to switch as often as they wish, commencing at 20 minutes after departure.

The Princess Charlene Of Monaco Foundation

“Being passionate about sport is an amazing gift if one considers the values that come with it. Sport has the ability to change and save lives, to accomplish great destiny and empower people. It can have an impact on an individual, a family, a community, as well as an entire nation. Today we might know gifted children who would have the ability to become a sporting icon, but do not have sufficient means or facilities to even train properly. So it has become a priority for me to support and transmit these sporting values that I share with my husband, Prince Albert II of Monaco, to the next generation of young athletes. Some of the present and future projects for my Foundation are underlining the importance and reinforcing the awareness of water safety. Too many children die from drowning every year because they don’t know how to swim yet just a few swimming lessons could save their lives and help them to feel more comfortable and confident in the water. My foundation is orientated towards these children who can become responsible adults if we show them the way through the values of sport and solidarity; so together, we can help these young athletes to succeed.” HSH Princess Charlene of Monaco.

Photo © Olivier Huitel