Discover the Legend and History of Luther Country in Germany

Located in central Germany, Luther Country is a popular travel destination that’s dedicated to Martin Luther. Luther is considered the Father of Protestant Reformation. Luther Country is an incredible area that includes beautiful landscapes, amazing cultural events, timeless art and mouth-watering cuisine.

A visit to Germany’s Luther Country allows tourists the chance to literally walk in Martin Luther’s footsteps.

The Luther Trail or “Lutherweg” in German – is a wonderful scenic route in Germany. It’s a blend of nature, culture and a great overview of Martin Luther and the history of Reformation.

The region of Luther Country is packed with fascianting churches, quaint villages and museums across Thuringia, and Saxony-Anhalt. The area is a top pilgrimage destination for Protestants – particularly Lutherans.

About 1,000 miles of the Luther Trail can be found within Luther Country, starting in the city of Lutherstadt Wittenberg. Be sure to pay a visit to the former Augustinian Monastery. This location is where Martin Luther actually lived as a monk. Continue on through the cities of Lutherstadt Eisleben, Dessau-Roßlau, Halle (Saale), Mansfeld-Lutherstadt and Erfurt. During each stop, take in the rich history and learn interesting facts about the Reformation.

Luther Country, Germany - Monastery garden at the monastery in Jerichow in the Altmark
Photo: Frank Boxler, IMG Sachsen-Anhalt

You can actually see both the Martin Luther Birth House and Martin Luther Death House in the city of Eisleben. Observe various artifacts in Luther’s birth house, which actually became a museum way back in 1693. There is a Martin Luther antique portrait on display, as well as pieces of art and books from his childhood years.

The Martin Luther Death House had got through a renovation in early 2013 and reopened. Inside you will find a museum comprised of rooms that were important to his death. Right after Luther’s death, a plaster cast made of both his face and hands. You can see the death mark on display. Also available for viewing is the original cloth that was draped over Martin Luther’s coffin.

For example, the city of Erfurt in Luther Country created a route titled the “Luther Mile.” It guides hikers through Erfurt to view various museums, churches and buildings that have a historical significance.

If you have made plans to visit Germany this holiday season, then be sure to visit the popular region and experience a traditional Christmas similar to how it was celebrated 500 years ago. In Erfurt, enjoy a wonderful journey back in time when what was important included handmade crafts, traditional food and drinks, plus a variety of live music and entertainment. The famous Erfurt Christmas Market is a fabulous, cultural experience that should not be missed. The Christmas event is the biggest Christmas market held in Southern Luther Country. Highlights for visitors, both young and old are a giant Ferris wheel and a large pyramid.

Another significant stop is the mighty Wartburg Castle. Luther actually stayed her and is the location he translated the New Testament into German.

Another popular pilgrimage excursion is via the Way of St. James. It’s a collection of old pilgrimage routes that cuts right through Luther Country. On your journey, you’ll pass through additional Reformation cities, such as Lutherstadt Eisleben and Magdeburg.

For music lovers, uncover this region and discover the rich history of musical heritage. Just a few of famous musical composers from Luther Country include Richard Wagner, George Frederic Handel, and of course Johann Sebastian Bach,.

A visit to Lutheran Country is a memorable experience, especially for those who want to learn more about Martin Luther – leader of the Protestant Reformation. We can help you plan your luxury travel itinerary to Germany and include the most historically important destinations. Read more stories like this by following our luxury blog.

Photo: Visit Luther




4 Keys for Baby Boomers to Consider Regarding Retirement Planning

Regardless of your age, retirement planning should be high on everybody’s list. Baby Boomers are generally defined as people who were born between 1946 and 1964. This important generation were part of the post World War II era and is now an important group of people as they enter the retirement age.

With about 75 million Baby Boomers alive today, about 10,000 boomers actually turn 65 years old each day. That is a staggering number and shines the light on the importance of retirement planning. It’s important to remember, it is never too late.

Michael Bivona is a certified public accountant who already retired about 20 years ago. He understands how critical it is to map your strategy and have a sound the retirement planning road map. People often dream of unlimited travel, sipping Mai Tai cocktails on a tropical beach, and having no worries about life. Well it’s reality check time!

Bivona states, “I had a simple plan: When I stopped working I planned on living on my 42-foot Chris Craft cruiser with my wife, Barbara, which was a very pleasant pastime during my busy working years. But, after a few weeks, as we tried to make our dream a reality we found that we were bored out of our minds.”

But if you want a rewarding retirement, you need to assess your current situation and make the important changes if needed. Bivona continues, “Pre-retirees and retirees are rightly concerned about whether they can afford retirement. But not having enough to do is another kind of deficit that is frequently overlooked until it’s too late.”

He shares 4 keys for Baby Boomers to consider regarding retirement planning:

1) Make the most of your travels.
Traveling is a common bucket list item for most retirees. Of course, it’s going to cost you. That’s why this is a subject that perfectly combines the two great concerns for retirement: money and purpose, both of which can be maximized with “research, research, research, Bivona says. You might even parlay traveling with another interest, such as your family history. You may learn about your roots at www.Ancestory.com, and then visit areas based on your research. Or, you may be more interested in stretching your dollar. There are many cost effective deals to be had by researching your heart’s desire on the internet.

2) Try on a pair of dancing shoes.
For some, the thought of dancing may elicit a strong sense of aversion, but you may want to try it anyway. The benefits include exercise, coordination and possibly enjoying a romantic hobby with your spouse or others. Dancing is a beautiful art form that gives participants something with which to challenge themselves, Bivona says. A goal-oriented mindset is a healthy one especially when approaching the encore years.

3) Develop a social network with senior civic centers.
Civic centers, which usually have a department dedicated to the betterment of the senior citizens who live in their areas, can be found in almost every municipality in the United States. These centers offer a wide range of activities. Additionally, the following online search, “Fun Activities for Senior Citizens,” offers a nice list of activities and associated details that can be explored prior to retiring.

4) Stay sharp and keep learning.
The mind is much like the body: If you don’t use it you will accelerate the process of losing it. Building bridges to new adventures is the key to maintaining your mental acuity and increasing your vitality. There are an abundance of educational courses developed for seniors to keep them exercising their mental prowess. Remember, if you started working in your twenties and retire in your sixties, there’s a good chance you’ll spend as many years in retirement as you did working. So building bridges to what you want to do in a rational manner for your encore years is imperative if the last phase of your life is to be enjoyable for you and your love ones.

Don’t let you retirement dreams slip away. If you want to live a VIP lifestyle, it’s not going to happen on its own. Plan, plan and plan again. Retirement planning is so important and often overlooked. Don’t delay anther day, get back on the right path and enjoy your golden years of retirement …. worry free.

If you need a professional financial advisor to help with your Retirement Planning, contact us today. We can recommend someone who is licensed in your area to help you plan for retirement and look at your current and future financial situation. Read more about investing and financial planning by following this popular luxury blog.




Ritz-Carlton, Mexico City Hotel to Open in 2019

Last week, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. released an announcement that they are planning to open its very first hotel in Mexico City, Mexico.

Scheduled to open in 2019, the new Ritz-Carlton, Mexico City luxury hotel will offer 153 rooms. With other Ritz-Carlton properties already operating in both the Caribbean and Latin America, this new development marks the new achievement by opening the hotel in the capital city of Mexico.

Mexico is one of the largest cities in th eworld based on population. Current estimates ranks the city #10 with about 19.5 million people, just behind Sao Paulo, Brazil and New York City.

Located in the in heart of the city’s financial center, the Ritz-Carlton hotel will be built at the strategic intersection of Avenida Reforma and Circuito Interior.

The building structure will actually be a total of 58 floors high and cover approximately 1.1 million square feet in space. It is expected to be one of the tallest buildings in the Mexico City. The Ritz-Carlton, Mexico City hotel will then occupy the 36-47 building floors.

Herve Humler is the president and chief operations officer for The Ritz-Carlton and was quoted, “We are thrilled to collaborate with Thor Urbana Capital and Heldan Hotels & Resorts to expand our presence in the Caribbean and Latin America, particularly in Mexico City – an epicenter of commerce and culture. Mexico remains one of the largest and most important international markets for our company, and we are confident that our legendary Ritz-Carlton service and culture is a perfect match for this vibrant, exciting destination.”

When opened in 2019, the new luxury hotel will join a The Ritz-Carlton collection of other luxury Caribbean and Latin America properties, including: The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba; The Ritz-Carton, Santiago; The Ritz-Carlton, Cancun; The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman; The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas, The Ritz-Carlton, San Juan, and Dorado Beach, as well as The Ritz-Carlton Reserve (Puerto Rico).

Situated near the top of the new building, hotel guests will enjoy unobstructed views of nearby Chapultepec Park.

All Ritz-Carlton hotels are known for their impeccable luxury service and endless amenities. The luxury hotel brand announced the new hotel will include both a Club Lounge and spa. We expect nothing less than a true VIP experience.

Has taking a luxury vacation been high on your bucket list? Let our luxury travel specialists help design and book your trip of a lifetime. When the Ritz-Carlton, Mexico City hotel opens in 2019, make plans to visit Mexico City and enjoy a luxury stay in VIP style. Return to this luxury blog for all the latest, travel industry news.

Photo: The Ritz-Carlton




7 of the Most Expensive Luxury Hotels in U.S. are in New York City

It’s no secret that New York City is one of the most pricey cities in the world to live in. That also translates into the tourism industry. In the United States, New York City has the distinction of having the top 7 of the most expensive luxury hotels.

In a story by eTN, a recent survey was conducted to evaluate luxury hotels in the United States and determine their lowest room rate for a double room for October. One would think that the peak summer months are the highest hotel room rates, but it’s actually the month of October.

New York City has some the most recognizable luxury hotels in the world. But that comes with a price and they are also some of the most expensive luxury hotels.

Tied at the top of the list are The Ritz-Carlton Central Park and Mandarin Oriental – New York. Multiple award winning The Ritz-Carlton Central Park is located in the heart of Manhattan at 50 Central Park S. The luxury Mandarin Oriental, New York hotel is regarded by many as the most luxurious 5 Star hotel anywhere in New York City. This luxury property can be found on the Southwest corner of Central Park, in Manhattan’s Time Warner Center at Columbus Circle.

Mandarin Oriental, New York hotel suite
Photo: Mandarin Oriental, New York

Here is the list of most expensive luxury hotels in U.S.

1. The Ritz-Carlton Central Park (New York) $995
1. Mandarin Oriental (New York) $995
3. Baccarat Hotel & Residences (New York) $990
4. The St. Regis (New York) $945
5. The Plaza Hotel (New York) $893
6. The Peninsula (New York) $845
7. Park Hyatt (New York) $834
8. Montage Beverly Hills (Los Angeles) $800
9. SKYLOFTS at MGM Grand (Las Vegas) $789
10. The Lowell (New York) $785

The New York City luxury hotels are all located in Manhattan and occupy the top 7 survey slots and #10. Both the 1. The Ritz-Carlton Central Park and Mandarin Oriental – New York hotels are tied with a whopping room rate of $995 per night.

But close behind is the Baccarat Hotel & Residences at $900 per night. The bottom of the top 10 list has the only two non-New York City hotels – Montage Beverly Hills in Los Angeles at #8 and SKYLOFTS at MGM Grand in Las Vegas at #9.

For those that desire a luxury VIP experience, want the best amenities and impeccable service. Paying top dollar is worth it, especially to stay in the top U.S. cites like New York, Los Angeles and Las Vegas. The above list shows that the best luxury hotels can also be quite expensive.

If you are looking to spend time in New York City and want the best, consider staying at one of the most expensive luxury Hotels in the Big Apple. The Life of Luxury can offer you excellent customer service, as our travel specialists are to help you have a VIP experience. Read our luxury blog to hear about the latest luxury travel news.

Photo: The Ritz-Carlton New York hotel




Harry Winston – Histoire de Tourbillon 6 Watch

A true legacy watch, the latest chapter from the popular Histoire de Tourbillon line is the Histoire de Tourbillon 6. The number 6 denotes the sixth chapter of this series form luxury watch brand Harry Winston.

Harry Winston has introduced first in horology history, by combining two independent hour indications. The first is regulated by a tri-axial tourbillon and the second is by a karussel.

The watch’s 18k white gold case is quite large, measuring 55 mm by 49 mm. The case is back is sapphire and water resistant down to 30 meters. The HW4701 caliber is the most complex in the entire Histoire de Tourbillon watch series.

Histoire de Tourbillon 6 follows the tradition of its series predecessors with the similar, highly recognizable design. This luxury timepiece was unveiled at BaselWorld 2015 show earlier this year in Switzerland. Along with its construction and complexity, the watch’s unique design is like no other and has become a true trademark of Harry Winston.

The watch movement of the Histoire de Tourbillon 6 is made of two independent parts. It’s been compared to having 2 separate heads a 1 body. On one side, you’ll notice the hours and minutes. They are regulated by the tri-axial tourbillon. Easily identified because of the unique color coding – orange against the watch’s gray background. It’s also housed inside a rounded extension of the luxury watch case. The watch also features a carousel that will rotate at 30 seconds.

The tri-axial tourbillon is an incredible sight to behold and an extremely complex device. The first cage includes the balance wheel and operates one turn every 45 seconds. Rotating within the second cage, it spins around every 75 seconds along its vertical axis. Next, the device moves within a third, spherical cage. The rotation here is done once in 300 seconds.

When actually started, the karussel functions as the regulator for the independent part of the watch’s interior HW4701 movement. It’s positioned on the right side of Histoire de Tourbillon 6. By default it will stop, but will commence running again when the pusher is pressed. That pusher can be found on the caseband. The specific construction of the karussel means that its balance wheel and its cage are simultaneously linked to the movement’s energy source.

As mentioned earlier, the Histoire de Tourbillon 6 watch from HArry Winston is a large watch. Measuring 64 mm from crown to crown, it still has a surprisingly, comfortable fit. Titanium was chosen due to the metal being light weight. The case includes ergonomic lugs and attached is a big, hand-sewn alligator strap.

The case is carefully hand-beveled and sandblasted. The result is a granular texture that is followed by the NAC galvanic treatment. This process gives the luxury watch a stylish look by coating it with a black metal layer.

Histoire de Tourbillon 6 is an extremely limited series as only 20 pieces are expected to be manufactured. The retail price is around $600,000 US.

Although the cost may be too much for most people, if you are interested in buying one of the new, limited-edition Histoire de Tourbillon 6 watches from Harry Winston, please contact The Life of Luxury. Read about other luxury watch and fine jewelry news, by following this luxury blog. Enjoy life and live a luxury lifestyle!

Photo: © Harry Winston, Inc. All rights reserved.




Support National Breast Cancer Awareness Month at Whiteface Lodge

The month of October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and to honor this important cause, the AAA Four Diamond Whiteface Lodge in Lake Placid has expanded its amazing spa menu.

Whiteface Lodge in Lake Placid is an award winning property in upstate New York. In support of the highly respected Susan G. Komen Foundation, Whiteface Lodge is donating 10% of its proceeds from several new spa treatments – listed below.

The ultimate goal of the charitable donations is to help the education and research to finally find a cure for women’s breast cancer. It’s a terrible disease and more effort is needed to assist in learning about its causes and available treatments.

Whiteface Lodge is nestled in Adirondack Park. It’s a top tourist destination and the luxury resort offers an endless number of luxury amenities. Both families and adult travelers can also enjoy a variety of activities throughout the year. A sample includes: canoeing on nearby Lake Placid, watching your favorite film in the movie theater, bowling and in the winter, ice skating is very popular. There’s also boating, hiking, fishing, cycling, golfing, horseback riding and much more!

The Spa at Whiteface Lodge is about 8,000 square feet in size and was proud to be ranked in the Top 100 Spas in North America the by highly respected Condé Nast Traveler. The spa is an ideal blend of rustic charm and luxury relaxation. Enjoy a VIP experience with one of their leading spa treatments.

Unwind from the stress of your daily life and do something to better your mind, body and spirit. The Spa at Whiteface Lodge awaits with a complete menu of luxury spa treatment services to rejuvenate you and make you feel better overall. It’s the perfect way to top off a memorable luxury vacation.

The two new spa treatments are:
· Raspberry Healing Massage
– An ultra-renewing massage that’s packed with Gotu Kola and Calendula for deep skin revitalization.
(Price: $125 Monday-Thursday, $135 Friday-Sunday)

· Sweet Cherry Enzyme Peel Facial
– Perfect way to both brighten and smooth your sun damaged skin. This incredible facial is infused with sweet cherry puree, includes a vitamin-rich anti-inflammatory and resveratrol for brightening and delivering an even skin tone.
(Price: $130 Monday-Thursday, $140 Friday-Sunday)

After a day of pampering yourself, stop by the lodge’s KANU Lounge for a cocktail and socialize among your friends. Be sure to try the “Eyes Up Here” cocktail. This delicious drink was created by Zachary Blair, who is the lead mixologist at Whiteface Lodge.

If you want to try this cocktail at home, we have included the drink recipe:

“Eyes Up Here”
2.5oz 44 North Nectarine Vodka
.5oz Dolin Dry Vermouth
.75oz Aperol
Splash of lemon juice
Splash of simple syrup
Shake and strain into a martini glass
Finish with three good dashes of rose water

Visiting New York state is a great experience anytime of the year. Enjoy the natural beauty of the outdoors and Adirondack Park and Lake Placid by staying at luxurious Whiteface Lodge. The Life of Luxury can help book your luxury travel reservations and make sure you receive VIP service. Come back often to follow our luxury blog and read about other luxury travel destinations.

Photo: Whiteface Lodge




Discover the Amazing, Caribbean Island of Saba

The incredible, Caribbean island of Saba is a land of opposites. From the gorgeous, tropical scenery to the white-knuckle airplane landing, Saba is the place to be.

Only five square miles in size, it’s the smallest of the all Dutch Caribbean islands and just 28 miles southwest of the island of St. Maarten. Small in size, but oh it delivers untouched, visually stunning beauty at every turn. It’s a nature lovers’ paradise that must be explored at a leisure pace, to take in all that it has to offer.

Island life on Saba is slow paced, but you will receive a warm welcome from the locals. The people understand the importance of tourism to their island and visitors very much appreciate the hospitality during strolls through the surrounding villages.

Saba has been called “The Unspoiled Queen.” Tourists will notice the melting pot of people from different nationalities, including those from Europe plus African and Latin descendents. You’ll hear various spoken languages like Dutch, English and Spanish.

Saba island hiking
Photo: Eveline de Vree

In addition to wandering Saba’s rocky coastline, for a glimpse into the history and culture of the Caribbean island, be sure to check out their museums.

You’ll find the The Harry L. Johnson Museum inside a 19th century sea captain’s cottage. Located in the historic district of Windwardside, the museum is surrounded by varieties of lovely flowers. Inside, you will view collections from both 19th and early 20th century, as well as artifacts discovered on various Amerindian archaeological sites on the island.

Another option is the Dutch Museum Saba. View Dutch antique collections that are as old as 150 to over 400 years old! The collections include a wide variety of items including: books, tapertries, tiles, porcelain, paintings, lacework and furniture.

Since it lies in the Caribbean, the tropical island of Saba has a history of pirate life. For years, it was home to ruthless, Caribbean pirates. But as years went on, that distinction changed. Many of the island’s men turned to fishing and becoming sailors. Spending sometimes months at sea, Saba was once named “The Island of Women.”

Regarding accommodations, you can choose between many options, depending upon your preference, such as hotels, villas, lodges and small cottages. For a VIP experience, stay at the the Queen’s Gardens Resort. Perched about 1,200 feet above sea level, this luxury resort provides stunning views and is upscale, but with a casual chic vibe.

Queen's Gardens Resort - Saba

Queen’s Gardens Resort offers guests 12 elegant and spacious suites. What is unique is that each suites takes up an entire floor of the building. Enjoy scenic views of the blue waters of the Caribbean Sea or nearby Saba Rain forest. For a romantic experience, relax in your own, private Jacuzzi.

Saba is an island of not just lying on the beach, but countless outdoor activities. You can try hiking one of the many beautiful trails and explore the rainforest, or take to the water and try either snorkeling, scuba diving, yachting or deep sea fishing.

Spending a vacation getaway on Saba will leave a lasting impression. Time seems to stand still as you immerse yourself in the Caribbean lifestyle. The island beckons and welcomes all who want to discover it. Offering exquisite, natural beauty …. be sure to add it to your bucket list. A stay is perfect anytime of the year and ideal for a honeymoon, anniversary or just to rekindle your love.

If you would like to discover this Caribbean gem, contact us today and we can plan and book your luxury getaway to the island of Saba. Relax in VIP style and enjoy nature at its very best. Learn about other fabulous getaways by reading this luxury blog.

Photo: Laurent Benoit




Plans For New Versailles Luxury Hotel Continue

The world famous Palace at Versailles in France has housed both kings and queens from 1682 until 1790, during the time of the French Revolution. Now the French city, just outside of Paris will be the location of a new Versailles luxury hotel, although it will likely be years away from actually opening.

First reported by the French newspaper Journal du Dimanche, the Chateau de Versailles announced it had begun plans to open a Versailles luxury hotel. The site will be located on the palace ground’s south-eastern corner.

The first phase of the process is to renovate three buildings on the Versailles palace site that are quite run down. Those three buildings built in the 1680’s are named – Petit Contrôle, Pavilion of the First 100 Steps and the Grand Contrôle. Once completed, the new Versailles luxury hotel will be built within the three buildings from the 17th century.

The luxury hotel will actually be located outside the gates of the famous Versailles palace, but offering spectacular views of Versailles and the surrounding area.

It’s estimated that the initial building renovation will cost between 4 and 7 million Euros or approximately $4.484 to $7.847 million dollars. The luxury hotel will definitely increase tourism revenue

The project will go out for bid and the winner will not only get the large undertaking to build the new Versailles luxury hotel, but will also have the right to operate the hotel for a time period of 60 years.

If you get the chance to ever visit France, be sure to see the impressive Versailles palace. During the French Revolution, the palace of Versailles had all of its furnishings removed. The Tuileries in Paris then became the new royal residence of France.

Louis XVI was the last king you lived in Versailles but fleed during the French Revolution. Condemned to death for treason, Louis XVI then executed on January 21, 1793, ending a mighty reign.

The Château de Versailles was also a big part of world history. It was the location World War I officially ended. The Treaty of Versailles was signed there on June 28, 1919.

Once built, it will be an honor to stay at the Versailles luxury hotel near Paris, France. World famous and years of rich history, you’ll be able to stay on the grounds of the Palace of Versailles. The Life of Luxury can help you book your luxury travel reservation to France. Stay in VIP style and enjoy luxury amenities. Come back soon and read our luxury blog.

Photo: Château de Versailles – © EPV / Ch. Milet




New Si Edition Murano Fragrance from Giorgio Armani

For women looking for that special luxury perfume, consider the new, limited edition Si Edition Murano fragrance from Giorgio Armani.

The original Giorgio Armani Si fragrance includes airy florals, deep blackcurrant nectar as well as musky blond wood. The luxury perfume is perfect for the modern, sophisticated woman who desires the best at all times.

When asked what was the influence to develop the original Si fragrance in 2013, Giorgio Armani was quoted, “Sì is my tribute to modern femininity, an irresistible combination of grace, strength and independent spirit.” The fragrance was also inspired by Armani’s mother, who liked Guerlain fragrance Mitsouko.

The limited edition fragrance pays tribute to the 40th anniversary of the popular, luxury fashion brand from Italy.

The Si Edition Murano perfume comes in a Murano glass bottle. Of course, Murano is recognized as the historical center of ancient glass blowing. Near Venice, Italy – Respected glassmaker Salvati who operates his hand-blown glass business on the island of Muranco, was the designer of the stylish fragrance bottle.

Decorated with a fine layer of gorgeous, 24-karat gold leaf, the perfume bottle also features a stopper made from crystal and decorated with stunning constellation of golden particles.

Not yet available to purchase, but you can expect to find the new Si Edition Murano fragrance on December 1, 2015. It is expected to be found at select Giorgio Armani boutiques, in addition to leading department stores around the world.

The Giorgio Armani fragrance will be available as 50 ml Eau de Parfum in bottle. The bottle will come in a decorated box, encased in beautiful golden bows.

If you are looking for that perfect anniversary, birthday or even a special Christmas gift for that special woman in your life, the new Si Edition Murano perfume may be the ideal solution.

The Life of Luxury enjoys offering the latest beauty and fashion industry news and press releases such as the new limited edition fragrance – Si Edition Murano from Giorgio Armani. Read about the best in luxury living by following our luxury blog.

Photo: Giorgio Armani




Piccadilly Princess Royal Emerald Green Watch by Backes & Strauss

Backes & Strauss is the world’s oldest diamond company and was established way back in 1789. The luxury brand has just introduced their latest watch – Piccadilly Princess Royal Emerald Green.

In a partnership with Gemfields, Backes & Strauss has delivered a beautiful timepiece that is as stunning as it is technologically advanced.

Gemfields is known for their expertise as a key supplier of colored gemstones. In collaboration with Backes & Strauss, who brings well over two hundred years in the diamond industry, a luxurious piece of art and timekeeping has been developed – the Piccadilly Princess Royal Emerald Green watch.

The bespoke Piccadilly Princess Royal Emerald Green model becomes the third watch that’s part of a bespoke, five watch collection. The prior two watch releases were the Piccadilly Princess Royal Colours in 2014 and Piccadilly Princess Royal Blue introduced earlier this year. in 2015. The gorgeous Piccadilly Princess Royal watch series commemorates the important, 225th anniversary milestone of Backes & Strauss.

Backes & Strauss has revolutionized the diamond industry since the late 1700’s with new diamond cutting techniques and incredible designs of its luxury jewelry.

The Piccadilly Princess Royal Emerald Green watch consists of 245 Zambian emeralds that includes 10 different cuts. The total weight of the precious green emeralds is 31.91 carats. The stunning gems were professionally chosen and cut by the experts at Backes & Strauss.

Vartkess Knadjian is the CEO of Backes & Strauss and is proud to have partnered with Gemfields. When asked about the gem company and what they bring to the partnership from their Kagem Mines in Zambia, he stated, “A shared dedication to environmental and human rights responsibility along with commitment to high-quality cut and polished stones are what have encouraged us to continue a partnership and create another masterpiece with Gemfields.”

Do you dream of owning a luxury watch to add to your collection or make it the center of talk during social gatherings? Contact The Life of Luxury and we can help you procure a luxury timepiece like the new Piccadilly Princess Royal Emerald Green watch from Backes & Strauss. Come back often and follow our luxury blog to keep abreast of all the latest news and new watch releases in the luxury jewelry industry.

Photo: Backes & Strauss




Enjoy Luxury, Infinity Pool Suites at Jade Mountain on St. Lucia

Luxury Jade Mountain resort is a romantic retreat offering incredible views of the Caribbean Sea and the World Heritage site Piton Mountains, on the tropical island of St Lucia.

Jade Mountain is actually like a resort within a resort, as it resides on the grounds of the Anse Chastanet Resort. It offers 24 luxury infinity pool suites that all have just 3 walls, meaning that you’ll have open air views that will simply take your breath away. This piece of heaven awaits and provides a true VIP experience for its guests.

Each luxury suite also includes a private infinity pool to relax and enjoy the local area views, including the majestic Piton Mountains. The pools range in size from 450 to 900 square feet. Whether you are getting away for a romantic honeymoon, anniversary or another special occasion, this bespoke property has an endless list of luxury amenities to make your stay a special one.

In addition to the 24 pool sanctuaries, you can stay in one of 5 sky jacuzzi suites. Each of these luxury suites have a large jacuzzi tub perfect for two adults.

Privacy is paramount for most travelers who stay at a luxury property and this luxury resort delivers on that promise. In fact to reach your own infinity pool suite, you stroll along a private and scenic stone walkway.

The suites themselves are absolutely incredible. Both the bedroom and living areas are elegant. You’ll notice the tall 15-foot ceilings that make the suites seem incredibly spacious. The decor has a tropical vibe and includes exotic furnishings that are crafted from local, tropical wood.

Jade Mountain resort bathroom

The suite bathrooms are as luxurious as you can imagine. The sinks and toilets are porcelain and include stunning faucets. Take a shower in style. Each shower tower includes a rain shower with six body spray at different levels a separate hand shower. Unwind in a chromatherapy whirlpool tub, which can accommodate up to two people.

For your dining delight, the Celestial Terrace offers not only stunning views but delicious gourmet food. Enjoy a private, fine dining experience that features “Jade Cuisine.” The menu was developed by Chef Allen Susser, who is a James Beard award winning chef. The food is spectacular and makes your taste buds come alive with delicious, tropical flavors.

If you prefer a more intimate setting for your meal, take advantage of the resort’s 24-hour room service. Choose your favorite cuisine and have it delivered right to you own room. Imagine fine dining in the privacy of your suite. What a VIP experience!

There is lots to do nearby on the island. Jade Mountain Club provides concierge services to meet your every need. In the club center, there’s a large infinity pool that all resort guests can enjoy. If you want to get outdoors, head to one of the two sandy beaches to lie under the tropical sun or swim in the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea.

If you want to try snorkeling, there is a nearby coral reef to view the spectacular sea life below the water’s surface. Hiking Gros Piton mountain is another popular activity as well as taking a memorable, sunset sail on a yacht owned by the resort.

Who isn’t stressed these days? This property is the perfect solution to unwind and relax. Guests can choose from a menu of spa treatments at Kai Belte spa, which is located on the Anse Chastanet beach. Another option is Kai Mer spa cottage. There are numerous beauty and body treatments to give your body the attention it deserves. If you are looking for a more intimate experience, enjoy a spa treatment within the privacy of your own luxury suite.

Jade Mountain is the ultimate, intimate luxury resort and is located on one of the most breathtaking locations found anywhere in the world. You can just stroll around the gorgeous grounds along countless walkways and enjoy peaceful koi pools. It’s a special place that words cannot describe.

If you need to get away and enjoy a tropical island oasis, then travel to St. Lucia and stay at the luxury Jade Mountain resort. Follow our popular luxury blog to read about other top luxury travel destinations. Our travel specialists can help arrange and book your trip and make it a special, luxury experience.

Photos: Jade Mountain