Italy has long been a popular choice for travelers. The European country is rich in both history and culture. We wanted to share 4 amazing culinary experiences in Italy. Don’t settle for seeing only the sights that hordes of tourists flock to. Immerse yourself in the best Italy has to offer.

Fuoritinerario – Discover Your Italy is a well respected, travel company that is located in Perugia, Italy. They take pride in creating authentic excursions and the chance to see the true “Italian’s Italy.” Fuoritinerario is now offering 4 amazing culinary experiences that will delight your culinary desires. These exclusive travel packages offer a unique way to enjoy wonderful Italian food, plus take part in cooking classes.

For a once in a lifetime treat, these new culinary travel packages provide the opportunity to explore the canals of Venice, enjoy open air-dining in the streets of Siena and see the historic palazzos by the sea in Sicily. It’s a cultural experience you don’t want to miss.

Sicilian Cooking Traditions Revealed in a 19th Century Sicilian Kitchen (Catania photo above)
The sea meets the mountains in Catania’s authentic recipes featuring an incredible variety of dishes and flavors that spring from the cultural melting pot that is Sicilian fare. Guests who seek to learn more about Sicily’s culinary fusion can embark on a gastronomical adventure beginning with a guided tour of Pescheria (the traditional fish market). After purchasing local ingredients, head to a stunning 19th century kitchen of the Catania Historical Society for a cooking class where traditional dishes, such as spaghetti rolls alla Norma, pasta with squid ink and ricotta cheese or with anchovies and wild fennel, fish meatballs (whitebait), caponata, cannolo or the so-called “St. Agatha’s breasts” will be prepared and savored.

Dine in the Streets of Siena During the Palio with a Contrada
Twice a year, the 17 districts or contrade of Siena compete against each other in the world-renown race, the Palio di Siena. On the next race day s – August 16, guests will enjoy the thrilling atmosphere of the Palio Horse Race in Siena and dine with one of the district teams in the afternoon. Belissimo! Prior to the race, guests will assist with the medieval parade that showcases all the teams in their colorful dress and, of course, the beautiful horses. Later, after guests catch their breath from watching the legendary horse-race, they will join one of the contradas for their open air dinner – hopefully it is the winning district!

Live Like a Royal: Attend a Gala at a Venetian Palace
For one night in Venice, guests will live the life of a noble Venetian aristocrat as they are whisked away aboard a private water taxi to a gala dinner set in a palace overlooking the Grand Canal. It will be an evening of total sensory experiences while guests linger over cocktails and dinner in this extremely unique historic mansion that has welcomed a legendary A-List from today’s Hollywood set to the Doges of Venice and Italian Nobility.

Cooking by the Sea in Sicily with The Duchess
This is not a simple cooking lesson in an 18th century palazzo by the sea. It’s a fascinating journey through Sicilian culture and food. Rise early, meet ‘The Duchess’ and follow her through a colorful local market to buy the seasons freshest ingredients. Throughout her tour, The Dutchess will share hidden treasures of Palermo, one of the most intriguing cities of the Mediterranean. In the spacious and historic kitchen at her palazzo, guests will learn to cook a whole Sicilian menu under The Duchess’ guidance. After lunch in the elegant dining room, enjoy a tour of the lush terrace and the beautifully restored palazzo, the last home of Prince Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa, author of the world-famous novel The Leopard.

Has Italy been on your Bucket List as a lifetime dream destination? Then consider making plans and booking one of these incredible travel itineraries. Visit this fascinating country and see some of the most amazing historical landmarks in the world.

Contact The Life of Luxury if interested in booking one of the above, amazing culinary experiences in Italy. Our travel specialists can help plan your next luxury vacation, anywhere in the world. Stop by soon and follow this lxuury blog. Keep up on the latest travel trends and news.

Photo: Fuoritinerario – Discover Your Italy

Anyone who has had the pleasure of cruising on a luxury yacht knows it’s an unbelievable experience. Now you can cruise in VIP style aboard the 28 meter Impulse yacht by Sunseeker.

The M/Y Impulse was built in 2007 and finished an extensive refitting project earlier this year. The 28 meter (91 feet 10 inches) motor yacht provides an excellent luxury cruise experience in the Mediterranean Sea.

Impulse yacht was built by Sunseeker and offers guests 4 sleeping cabins. The cabins can accommodate up to 8 guests. The yacht’s interior is stunning. The luxury decor makes you feel like you are staying in a five-star luxury resort. The yacht is equipped with WiFi, air conditioning, high definition TV’s, satellite TV and a hard drive movie system.

To attend to you and your guest needs during your yacht cruise on the Mediterranean, Impulse yacht comes with a seasoned crew of 4 people. These professionals will make your dream vacation even more enjoyable with a high-level of service and attention to detail.

Your charter itinerary will depend on where you travel to. For example, there is a charter excursion that starts and finishes in Bonifacio, France. That packages is priced at EUR 45,000. Another charter begins in Porto Cervo, Italy and finishes in Cannes, France on the stunning French Riviera. The price for that package is EUR 50,000.

Your charter cruise package includes 3 meals per day. You’ll also receive a wide selection of house wines, beer and soft drinks. Your generator and tender fuel is also included. Port fees and other drinks such as fine wines, champagne and spirits are additional.

To take full advantage of your time on the water, Impulse yacht is equipped with many toys and tenders. There’s a 4.6m Novurania with Yamaha 60hp o/b, 2 Seabob F5 jet skis, 2 stand-up paddleboards, an inflatable air mattress, 2 inflatable donuts , as well as an inflatable canoe, In addition, get your adventure on with  water-skis and a wakeboard. Enjoy the incredible marine life with snorkeling equipment.

After a busy day, it’s time to relax and unwind. Sit or lay out on the brand new sundeck area. Simply enjoy a refreshing cocktail and take in the scenic views. The sundeck is decorated with luxurious Summit furniture. What a VIP experience!

Are you ready for a luxury yacht charter? Contact us today to learn more. We can book a luxury vacation on the M/Y Impulse yacht. Return again soon to read more luxury travel articles on our luxury blog.

Photo: MYSEA

Today is not just Monday, July 11 but also National Mojito Day. So it’s time to celebrate with friends and family. Enjoy your summer with a refreshing mojito cocktail.

Drinking a cold cocktail on a hot day is such a treat. The classic mojito cocktail is made with the following ingredients – white rum, lime juice, cane sugar, soda water and of course mint.

Instead of serving up a standard mint mojito, be creative and experiment. An excellent choice is to use Cruzan Rum. Beat the heat with two, delicious cocktails – Cruzan Mango Mojito and Cruzan Coconut Mojito. Both of these cocktails are to die for and perfect for any social event.

The Cruzan Mango Mojito cocktail is made with fresh mango. It’s a perfect compliment to the bold and tropical flavor of Cruzan Mango Rum. The Cruzan Coconut Mojito uses Cruzan Aged Light Rum, as well as Cruzan Coconut Rum. Both rums are mixed with coconut and vanilla. The result is a unique and spectacular tasting cocktail.

Courtesy of Cruzan Rum, we wanted to share two cocktail recipes to enjoy on National Mojito Day or anytime of the year:

Cruzan® Mango Mojito

Ingredients:
* 1 part Cruzan® Mango Rum
* 4 chunks of Fresh Mango
* Dash of Fresh Lime Juice
* Splash of Simple Syrup
* 4-6 Fresh Mint Leaves
* Club Soda

Method:
Combine muddle mint and mango chunks with simple syrup in a tall glass. Next, add lime juice, Cruzan® Mango Rum and ice. Then stir and top with club soda. Garnish with mint.

===============================================

Cruzan® Coconut Mojito

Ingredients:
* 2 parts Cruzan® Aged Light
* 1 part Cruzan® Coconut Rum
* 8-10 Mint Leaves
* 2 Fresh Lme Wedges
* 1 tsp Sugar
* Coconut Soda (or Coconut Water)

Method:
Start by combining muddle mint, lime & sugar and top with both Rums & ice. Then shake 2 times to mix. Top off with Coconut Soda. Lastly, garnish with mint and a lime twist.

Have fun and be safe on National Mojito Day. Have a delicious Cruzan cocktail and celebrate in style. Come back to follow out popular luxury blog. Read about more spirits and cocktail recipes.

Photo: Cruzan

The affluent continually look to push the boundary of luxury living. It’s not just about keeping up with the Joneses, but beating them. Now you can enjoy an incredible opulent event and partake in the world’s most expensive dining experience for a jaw-dropping $2,000,000!

The WORLD OF DIAMONDS Group is Russian conglomerate and one of the largest privately held diamond mining corporations. They have been involved with some of finest diamonds and jewelry pieces sold around the world. In addition, WORLD OF DIAMONDS Group introduced The Royalé Dream. It was the world’s most expensive perfume collection and was sold last year in Singapore.

Now in 2016, Singapore again is the place where a new record will be broken. Two people can be part of world’s most expensive dining experience for $2,000,000. WORLD OF DIAMONDS Group collaborated with CÉ LA VI Singapore. This ultimate fine dining restaurant is owned by L Capital Asia. The Asian private equity business is actually part of the Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessy (LVMH) Group. This VIP experience is actually much more than simply a romantic dinner for two.

The luxury package also includes an exhilarating helicopter ride, the ambiance of 10,000 roses adorning the private venue, plus a delicious, 18-course degustation dinner menu. But that’s not all! You’ll be treated to pairings of 44 and 55-year old vintage wines, plus eat with diamond-encrusted chopsticks. While dining, relax in custom-made designer furniture. As you are served your decadent dessert, be presented with a gorgeous 2.08 carat celebrity Blue Diamond ring. The night to remember ends with a fantastic fireworks display.

The exclusive culinary experience for two is a dream come true. The world’s most expensive dining experience takes place at CÉ LA VI Singapore. The high-end restaurant is located on the 57th floor of the luxurious Marina Bay Sands Hotel in Singapore. The Director of the WOD Group is Mr. Karan Tilani, He was quoted, “CÉ LA VI is a diamond in the sky. This could be the ultimate proposal, an exceptional occasion, or simply a celebration of life.”

No details have been overlooked and this 8-hour retreat is opulent from beginning to end. You’ll commence your journey with a scenic 45 minute helicopter ride. Take in the beauty of Singapore from the air. Once you land, you will be whisked away VIP style, in a chauffeured Rolls-Royce. Next get on board a luxury yacht for an amazing private cruise. Take in the coastal sites before arriving at CÉ LA VI.

As you step out of the hotel’s elevator, you become immersed in literally a sea of 10,000 fresh roses. Gaze out the large windows of the restaurant for stunning 360 degree views of Singapore. As the sun sets, your anticipation continues to build. It’s time to begin your 18-course Modern Asian meal. The degustation menu was carefully created. Each culinary item will delight your taste buds as you dine in ultimate privacy.

We want to share your mouth watering menu. We’ve also listed each of the 44 and 55 year-old vintage wines that will be paired with your delicious meal.

* New Zealand Langoustine with Black Sesame Cornet – Avocado, pearl onion crème fraiche
* Fresh Belon Oyster – Champagne foam, ikura
* Almas Caviar – Blinis, egg yolk, white
* Blue Fin Otoro Sashimi – Sekai ichi apple salad
* Jamon Iberico – Yubari melon
(Paired with – Salon ‘S’ 1988 from Champagne, France)

* Gewürztraminer-Poached Foie Gras- Oven dried figs, gewürztraminer rudy roman grapes
*Veal Liver – Raspberry vinegar
* Lamb Sweetbread – Braised endive, morel mushroom sauce
(Paired with – Domaine Leflaive, Chevalier Montrachet 2008 from Cote de Beaune, France)

Bresse Poulet Consommé- Scallion, radish salad
Line-Caught Striped Seabass- Artichoke barigoule, soy dekopon orange glazed
Air-Flown Alaska Wild Salmon – Braised rhubard
Verjus Sorbet – Poached peached
(Paired with – Domaine de la Romanee-Conti, Romanee St. Vivant 1996 from Cote de Nuits, France)

* Slow Cooked Pigeon – La bonnotte potatoes, red wine sauce
* Glenvale Pork Loin – Northern territory mango
* Pan-Roasted Graham Morrison Lamb Tenderloin – Cassoulet bean, sage sauce
* Apple-Wood Grilled Mishima Sirloin – Golden chanterelles, pommes anna, bordelaise sauce
(Paired with – Haut Brion 1961 from Pessac-Leognan, France

* Whipped Brie De Meaux – Aged balsamic glazed, baby mache
* Decadence of Valrhona 70% Dark Chocolate Croquembouche – Saffron, Iran pistachio, tahitian vanilla white chocolate ganache
(Paired with – Oremus, Tokaji Aszu 5 Puttonyos 1972 from Tokaji, Hungary)

The dinner guests will enjoy their lavish meal using diamond-studded chopsticks. Each pair are actually customized and engraved with their respective names. Dining in ultimate comfort, enjoy your culinary voyage while seated in custom-made designer furniture. Both luxury, grand armchairs were fabricated by The Plush.

How can you top this over-the-top candle-lit affair? As your dessert is being served, you will be presented with The Jane Seymour ring. This rare 2.08 carat Fancy Vivid Blue diamond ring was actually presented and worn by British actress Jane Seymour in April. The event also took place at CÉ LA VI Singapore. The Blue Diamond ring is absolutely stunning and has a mesmerizing blue hue. We provided a recent review of the The Jane Seymour ring. Please read it here at –
Sensational Blue Diamond Ring – “The Jane Seymour”

As your world’s most expensive dining experience nears its climatic end, there’s another surprise in store. When the clock strikes midnight, a spectacular fireworks display begins. The sky lights up, capping the , enjoy the smooth taste of Louis XIII de Rémy Martin cognac.

Mr. David Sarner is the CEO of CÉ LA VI Singapore and stated, “At CÉ LA VI, we live to create unique experiences that stimulate the senses, elevate the spirit, amplify passion and fuel the pursuit of pleasure. This ($2,000,000 dining experience) done conjointly with our esteemed partner, WORLD OF DIAMONDS Group, is the zenith of all experiences.”

One last note, simply having $2,000,000 is not enough. If you are interested in the world’s most expensive dining experience, only “qualified individuals” will be approved. This unknown criteria will at the discretion of both WORLD OF DIAMONDS Group and CÉ LA VI.

The Life of Luxury wants to make dreams come true. Our luxury concierge specialists can put together incredible VIP experiences for any occasion. For example – a honeymoon, anniversary, birthday and more! The sky’s the limit. Let your imagine go wild and let us make it happen.

If you would like to be part of the $2,000,000 world’s most expensive dining experience, please contact us immediaitaly. Come back again soon to follow our popular luxury blog. We enjoy sharing the best in luxury living.

Photo: CÉ LA VI Singapore / 2011 Rory Daniel

Stunning beauty is the perfect way to describe the latest luxury watch from Jaquet Droz. Titled the Petite Heure Minute Thousand Year Lights, this gorgeous women’s watch is sure to turn heads.

It’s a decorative creation that beautifully celebrates the sheer beauty of flowers. This fine watch would make a wonderful gift for that special woman in your life. You would proudly wear this new Jaquet Droz watch in any social occasion. From a romantic dinner to a formal engagement, it’s the perfect fashion statement.

One thing that stands out is the off-center subdial of the Petite Heure Minute watch. It’s located at 12 o’clock position. The reasoning from the watch designers, is the placement would allow a lot of space available on the watch dial. This facilitates the Jaquet Droz artists to literally have a blank canvas to create an artistic masterpiece.

Based on an ancient method that was popular from the 10th to 14th centuries, “Najeon Chilgi” was utilized. A flower landscape was created in white mother-of-pearl. The design is lacquered, followed by a polishing process. The final touches were completed using artistic hand-painting. The end result is a stunning array of flowers made from shimmering colors.

The watch dial is made from 18-carat red gold. The subdial is onyx. The case is 35 mm in diameter and made from 18-carat red gold case.

The feminine, Petite Heure Minute Thousand Year Lights watch comes in five different versions. Each version is a limited edition of only 28 pieces. The watch case comes in either white or red gold. You can also choose between one set in diamonds or none.

The watch has power reserve of 68 hours and s self-winding mechanical movement. It also has a water resistance of 3 bar or 30 meters.

The Petite Heure Minute Thousand Year Lights watch is available in either a deep blue or black alligator strap. The strap buckle is made from 18-carat red gold ardillon. The elegant look definitely adds to the beauty of the luxury watch itself. As you know, a little bling can go a long way in the world of fashion.

Contact The Life of Luxury today if you are interested in buying the Petite Heure Minute Thousand Year Lights watch from Jaquet Droz. We have a network of the top luxury watch brands. We would love to help you purchase your dream watch. Follow our luxury blog for more watch industry news

Photo: Jaquet Droz

Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard are two the most iconic and popular vacation spots in the U.S. As the cold weather departs until next winter, we now move into the busy travel season.

Cape Cod is about 70 miles long. This Massachusetts barrier island features meandering, sandy beaches and scenic, grassy marshes. With a laid-back atmosphere, Cape Cod has long been a summer vacation spot. Popular with locals from Boston and New York, the area also attract visitors from all around the world.

Off the shore of Cape Cod is another magnificent destination – Martha’s Vineyard. This island is a short, ferry ride of approximately 45 minutes. Like Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard is one of the most popular places to see in New England.

When visiting Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard, you want to be sure to stay in hotels that give you that New England, authentic experience. Immerse yourself in the Northeast charm and take in the refreshing sea breezes. Fragrant flowers are blooming and there’s so much to see and do here.

We wanted to share two hotel suggestions to make your luxury travel getaway to Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard a memorable one.

· Harbor View Hotel
This is one of Martha’s Vineyard’s most storied hotels. The Harbor View Hotel is found in quaint Edgartown and this year, is celebrating its 125th anniversary. This property is now offering its “Lighthouse Spa Package.” This luxury spa package is perfect for couples wanting a relaxing, VIP experience at an iconic, Martha’s Vineyard retreat. The hotel has collaborated with with Eclipse Massage Therapy to include luxury overnight accommodations (based on a two night minimum) and breakfast at the Vineyard-favorite Lighthouse Grill for 2 people. You’ll be pampered with a and a 60-minute couple’s massage that is enjoyed in your own hotel room. Package rates begin at just $269 per night.

· Sea Crest Beach Hotel
One of Cape Cod’s quintessential hotels is the well known, Sea Crest Beach Hotel (photo above). This hotel can be found on its own private beach, named Old Silver Beach. Teaming up with Bellezza Salon Medspa, guests can enjoy The Beach Stone package. This hotel and spa package features overnight accommodations and prices start at $261 per night. You’ll also receive one Hot Stone Massage, along with a spa-themed welcome bag.

Put Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard in Massachusetts on your travel radar. Enjoy a luxury getaway and get to know New England up close. With many fine dining restaurants, numerous shopping options, and of course incredible scenery, it’s a place to add to your vacation bucket list.

Contact us today to help you plan your visit to Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard. Our travel specialists are here to help. Stop back soon to follow this popular luxury blog. We love sharing the top luxury travel destinations with our loyal readers.

Today is the 4th of July holiday in the U.S. and summer has arrived with warm weather around the world. If you are planning a backyard BBQ with friends and family or a large social gathering, be sure to serve delicious tasting cocktails.

A Tequila Don Julio cocktail is the perfect drink to serve. They are refreshing and perfect on a hot summer day. Many people tend to drink something familiar and don’t like to try something new. Well one sip of a Tequila Don Julio cocktail, and you’ll be saying “where have you been all my life?”

Every party should have a signature cocktail. Mix them with Tequila Don Julio and make your party guests ask for more.

We wanted to share 2 great tasting tequila cocktails. First is the “Julio & Daisy” and second is the “La Abejita.”

——————————————–

Julio & Daisy
– This cocktail was created by Dallas Mixologist – Christian Armando Guillén

Ingredients:
1 1/4 oz Tequila Don Julio Blanco
1 oz Hibiscus and Passionfruit Infused Agave Syrup
3/4 oz Fresh Lime Juice
1 Dash Pepper Bitters
Orchid for Garnish

Preparation:
1) Combine Tequila Don Julio Blanco, hibiscus and passionfruit infused agave syrup, fresh lime juice and pepper bitters into a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake well.
2) Strain over fresh ice into a rocks glass.
3) Garnish with orchid.

Ideal Serve:
Rocks Glass

——————————————–

La Abejita
– This drink was created by Houston Mixologist – Omar Villavicencio

Ingredients:
1 1/2 oz Tequila Don Julio Blanco
3/4 oz Fresh Lime Juice
3/4 oz Fresh Honey Syrup
1 Dash Lavender Bitters
Fresh Honey Comb for Garnish

Preparation:
1) Combine Tequila Don Julio Blanco, fresh lime juice, honey syrup and lavender bitters in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake well.
2) Strain over fresh ice into a rocks glass.
3) Garnish with fresh piece of honey comb.

Ideal Serve:
Rocks Glass

——————————————–

Make your next party a great one. Serve up a great tasting Tequila Don Julio cocktail for all your guests to enjoy. Come back soon to read about more spirits and cocktail recipes on our luxury blog.

Photo: Tequila Don Julio

Dubai is known around the world for its array of dazzling luxury hotels and mind-blowing attractions. Luxury hotel chain, Corinthia Hotels is planning to introduce a new luxury hotel in Dubai – The Corinthia at Meydan Beach.

An agreement was recently signed with UAE-based Meydan Group. They will offer both technical services and manage the new luxury beachfront resort. Meydan Group is a top development company offering both large scale mixed-use leisure and urban developments in Dubai. The Corinthia at Meydan Beach will be designed and operated by Corinthia Hotels. The location of the new luxury property will be on the site of the previous Meydan Beach Club.

The Corinthia at Meydan Beach will be comprised of both a hotel and private residences. The luxury property will feature 300 guest rooms and suites, plus 60 high-end serviced apartments. The current schedule for completion of the project is 2019. When done, it will offer awesome views of the Persian Gulf.

Mohammed Al Shehhi is the Meydan Board Director and was quoted, “We are very happy to have appointed Corinthia to operate our new luxury hotel under construction at Meydan Beach. Our core business is the global management of horse racing, as well as large scale mixed use real estate developments in Dubai. With Corinthia as our hospitality partner, we continue to complement our array of capabilities in ensuring world class delivery of products and services, with our flagship beachside development as a starting point.”

The current portfolio of Meydan Group includes – The Meydan Hotel, The Track Meydan Golf and Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa, There’s also the Meydan Tennis Academy, Emirates Equestrian Center, QUBE Sports Lounge, and the spectacular Meydan Grandstand and Racecourse. Each year the famous racetrack showcases the Dubai World Cup. It has quickly become the richest horse race in the world.

As we expect, The Corinthia at Meydan Beach will be an amazing, luxurious resort. The stunning architecture includes a stepped podium that encircles lush swimming pools and gardens. The property will feature both indoor and outdoor dining facilities, including formal and leisure options for resort guests. Receive the ultimate pampering at the large luxury spa. For large social or business gatherings, utilize the club and banqueting amenities.

Alfred Pisani is the Corinthia chairman and stated, “We are immensely proud of our association with Meydan and of our first Corinthia Hotel in Dubai. The energy, vision and quality of resources assembled for this project by Meydan, and now including Corinthia, will ensure this will be another landmark milestone for us, and for Dubai.”

The luxury Dubai hotel will be 55 stories high and offer spectacular local views. Gaze out at the best Dubai has to offer, such as Palm Island and Dubai Eye currently under development across the waters.

Corinthia Hotels has a global portfolio of luxury five-star hotels around the world. There’s the iconic Corinthia Hotel & Residences in London. Additional luxury properties include Budapest, Prague, Lisbon, St Petersburg, Malta, Tripoli and Khartoum.

If you are looking for a luxury vacation of a lifetime, contact our travel concierge specialists. We can help you book that VIP experience in Dubai. Make plans to stay at The Corinthia at Meydan Beach hotel. Return to read our luxury blog and learn about other luxury hotel news and announcements.

Photo: Corinthia Hotels

The world’s biggest wine festival is held each year in Bad Dürkheim, Germany. Held during the second and third weekend of September, Wurstmarkt hits an important milestone year. 2016 will mark the 600 year occurrence of this popular wine festival. The very first German wine festival was held way back in the year 1417.

Wine making is big business in Germany. The European country has thirteen different wine growing regions. The regions produce incredible wines ranging from crisp Riesling wines to a floral Pinot Noir.

What is interesting is that the wine festival’s name – Wurstmarkt – translates to sausage market. Most people don’t associate wine and sausage together. The town of Bad Dürkheim is located in the premier wine-growing state, Rhineland Palatinate. The legend of how Wurstmarkt got its name is due to the large amounts of sausage that was eaten during the early years of the wine festival. Now it’s the World’s Biggest Wine Festival and people attend from all around the world.

It is expected that greater than 600,000 people will attend this year’s wine festival in Germany. Be sure to check out the Giant Cask, named Dürkheimer Riesenfass. It’s known as the biggest wine barrel in the world. Surprisingly, it even includes a restaurant inside.

Wine connoisseurs can try about 300 award-winning wines and sparkling wines. In addition to the many food and drink stands, plan on enjoying the various fairground carnival rides. There will also be music concerts and spectacular fireworks displays. This is an amazing cultural experience that should not be missed, especially for wine lovers.

This year’s Wurstmarkt wine festival will be held on the consecutive weekends of September 9 to 13 and 16 to 19.

Be sure to attend Wurstmarkt in Germany at the World’s Biggest Wine Festival. Contact The Life of Luxury today for help booking your luxury travel itinerary. Come back again to follow our luxury blog and read about other popular events from around the world.

It’s already been a busy year for The Meritage Resort & Spa. They have hosted numerous dinners to date, partnering with Joseph Phelps Vineyards, HALL Wines/St. Helena and Caymus Vineyards and Conundrum, which are part of Wagner Family of Wine. The luxury Napa report has announced their 2016 Masters Winemaker Dinner Series schedule.

Wine and foodie lovers will really enjoy the 2016 Masters Winemaker Dinner Series. Most of all, it’s a unique way to participate in a fine dining experience along with some of the best wines in the Napa / Sonoma area. The upcoming dinners will include: Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars, Silver Oak, Opus One and the iconic Robert Mondavi Winery.

Frederic Najem is The Meritage Resort director of food and beverage and was quoted, “These dinners are an opportunity for top Napa Valley wineries to showcase their wines in a unique way in their own backyards,” said . “Wineries often have these types of dinners at restaurants throughout the country and overseas, but rarely in the Napa Valley or Northern California. This is their opportunity to work directly with our culinary team to create a menu that pairs perfectly with their wines from the first sip to the last bite.”

The Meritage Resort & Spa is a spectacular, Mediterranean style property that offers its guests luxury accommodations. While located beside a hillside vineyard, this four-diamond resort provides endless luxury amenities. It is the perfect place to stay and discover all that Napa Valley has to offer. Furthermore, you can read a recent review we did on the luxury resort titled – The Meritage Resort and Spa – True Napa Valley Luxury

The 2016 Masters Winemaker Dinner Series has been developed to provide dinner guests a VIP experience. You can enjoy fine dining at Estate Cave restaurant, along with sipping delicious tasting wines. Many of these wines are often not made available to the public. Dinner guests are now in for a special treat. In addition, you will have the unique opportunity to talk to wine owners, their winemakers and other representatives.

The intimate setting of each winemaker dinner is a special event in itself. First of all, your night begins with a wonderful reception. Taste many, delicious appetizers and try local wines. The reception is held on the Vineyard Deck with views of the surrounding hillside vineyards. It’s a tranquil setting and the perfect way to begin your memorable night of great cuisine and wine drinking. An amazing multi-course dinners follows. Complement your meal with first release and exclusive wines that have been hand chosen for each event.

Below is the 2016 Masters Winemaker Dinner Series schedule:
June 17 – Master Sommelier Dinner: Old World vs New World (Siena at The Meritage Resort)
July 1 – Masters Winemaker Dinner with Opus One
July 17 – Masters Tequila Dinner with Don Julio (Siena at The Meritage Resort)
August 5 – Masters Winemaker Dinner with Pride Winery
September 2 – Masters Winemaker Dinner with Arkenstone
October 7 – Masters Winemaker Dinner with Robert Mondavi Winery, 50th Anniversary
November 18 – Masters Winemaker Dinner Series with Silver Oak and Twomey Cellars

Pricing for the 2016 Masters Winemaker Dinner Series ranges between $85 and $349 per person, inclusive of both taxes and gratuity.

The Meritage Resort & Spa also offers other monthly dinners. Due to these events being smaller than the winemaker dinners, they’re held on the patio in partnership with Siena, its farm to fork restaurant. As a respected dining establishment, Siena is known for sourcing local ingredients. These dinner events take guests on a unique wine journey. From sampling both New World and Old World wines, New York City Master Sommelier Brian Cronin shares his extensive expertise.

Contact us to book your reservation to Napa and attend a 2016 Masters Winemaker Dinner Series event at The Meritage Resort & Spa. Be sure to folow our luxury blog for more fine dining and luxury travel stories.

Photo: The Meritage Resort & Spa

Luxury watch maker Ateliers deMonaco introduced the Tourbillon Ronde d’Or – Grand Prix de Monaco 1966 watch to pay tribute to this iconic Formula One race. Formula One racing is extremely popular all around the world. Ateliers deMonaco timed the release of their new luxury watch to coincide with the 74th Grand Prix de Monaco.

As one of the most prestigious automobile events held anywhere in the world, the Grand Prix de Monaco attracts score of racing fans to Monaco each year. The striking watch commemorates the 1966 Grand Prix de Monaco car race.

The watch features an incredible. multi-layer hand-engraved 18K white solid gold dial showcasing a poster of the 1966 Grand Prix de Monaco race. The dial displays race action between the Graham Hill in his green BRM and John Surtee in his red Ferrari. The shot was taken in front of the luxurious Palace of Monaco on the French Riviera

Anybody who has ever attending a Grand Prix race, knows it’s quite a memorable event. Racers put in an immense amount of time to hone their racing skills. That level of dedication is also depicted in the craftsmanship and high quality of the Tourbillon Ronde d’Or – Grand Prix de Monaco 1966 watch from Ateliers deMonaco. The watch dial alone took about 200 hours of work.

The Ateliers deMonaco watch is enclosed in an 18K white gold case, measuring 44mm in diameter. The size allows the brilliance of the dial to shine. The watch has a sapphire case back. Peer inside and be amazed at the patented Tourbillon XP1 movement. The watch provides a reliable power reserve of 42 hours.

Bernard Ditzof is the master hand-engraver at Ateliers deMonaco. His impressive, hand-engraving skills were utilized to his fullest on this luxury watch. Ditzof carefully wielded the burin to extract life. His unique techniques integrated both depth and volume to the flat gold surface of the watch dial. He utilized a low-relief technique. As a result, the final product is simply stunning. By adding his own personal touch, the watch is a beautiful, one of a kind creation.

The Tourbillon Ronde d’Or – Grand Prix de Monaco 1966 watch runs at 28,800 beats per hour. It’s embellished with 29 gorgeous jewels and the 22 carat gold rotor is hand-engraved.

In conclusion, the stylish yet elegant watch will look sharp on your wrist. It comes with a brown alligator leather strap and accompanied with a 18K white gold folding buckle.

The Life of Luxury has partnered with many luxury watchmakers from around the world. If you like the new Tourbillon Ronde d’Or – Grand Prix de Monaco 1966 watch from Ateliers deMonaco, please contact us today. Be sure to read our luxury blog for more luxury watch news.

Photo: Ateliers deMonaco