Just off Grande Anse, one of Frégate’s seven dream beaches, a wooden staircase winds up around the trunk of a coconut tree, leading up to a hand-crafted, three square metre private platform discreetly camouflaged in palm leaves. From its four metre-high vantage point, the Bird’s Nest commands breathtaking views across the sparkling turquoise Indian Ocean to the west, scenes of the glorious beach and jungle to the south; and a panorama of the island’s dense endemic foliage towards the east and north.

With the butler just a phone call away, guests ensconced in the Bird’s Nest can enjoy mouth-watering sundowner cocktails as they watch the sun melt into the horizon; a succulent barbecue dinner in the best Frégate Island Private tradition, prepared and served by their private butler; or simply being left to enjoy each other’s company.

For more information on Frégate Island Private, please call tel: +49 69 86 00 42 980, or visit the website at www.fregate.com

The auction will launch on Ebay at 6pm on Thursday 22 July 2010 with the last bids being taken 10 days later on Sunday 1 August. Fans can register for alerts for the auction from today by visiting www.maginternational.org/boot or by texting MAG BOOT and their email address to 81025.

Who has donated?

Fans of great British comedy could invent their own silly walks in Michael Palin and Eric Idle’s shoes, look absolutely fabulous in Joanna Lumley’s wellies or pedal the piano in Victoria Wood’s stylish Prada brogues.
Pop-lovers can strut their stuff in Katy Perry’s, Little Boots’, P!nk’s or Nelly Furtado’s fantastic heels, and Strictly-fans can step in time in Bruno Tonioli’s boots.

Victoria Wood's Prada Shoes

Long time MAG supporters Elbow have also signed a pair of classic Converse, and former Smiths guitarist and Manchester legend Johnny Marr has donated a one-off pair of Nike trainers that he has decorated himself.

Avid soap fans could find themselves living life in the shoes of their favourite Coronation Street characters with Katherine Kelly (who plays Becky McDonald), Alison King (Carla Connor) and Helen Worth (Gail McIntyre) all donating.

David Walliams’ Handmade Churches English Shoes

And, having watched them commentating on the action of the World Cup for the last few weeks, fans of former England strikers Alan Shearer and Gary Lineker could now own a signed pair of their football boots. Who knows, their new owner might even be inspired to score the next world cup winning goal….

MAG’s Give Landmines the Boot organiser Zoe Corden said: “We’ve been totally overwhelmed by the support we’ve had from celebrities who’ve given up their shoes to help those affected by conflict.

“MAG chose to run a celebrity shoe auction because often its peoples’ feet that are the most at risk from landmine blasts, and all the stars donated to stamp a link between shoes and the dangers that lurk beneath them for millions worldwide.

Martha Kearney’s Handmade Trickers

“With your help their small gestures have the potential to transform peoples’ whole lives and we’re really grateful to all the celebrities who answered our call.

“Some of the shoes have clearly been well loved, others have been well decorated, and all of them will give you the chance to walk in your favourite celebs’ footsteps, so don’t miss the chance to bid!”

To view the shoes and a full list of the celebrities donating visit www.maginternational.org/boot.

During the 18th century, John Whitehurst, famous English industrial revolutionary, was working alongside some of the world’s greatest minds in his hometown of Derby, including Benjamin Franklin, to create most advanced and aesthetically challenging timepieces.

This is a standard that remains at the heart of Whitehurst, where, to this day, expert craftsman in Derby are still practising his art of hand making some of the most advanced, precise and mechanically beautiful clocks in the world.

And now, as it unveils its brand new timepieces to satisfy a renewed, international demand for painstakingly crafted, fine clocks, made to the highest standard, Whitehurst, it seems, is still making the heirlooms of the future.

The new weight-driven Whitehurst timepiece – with its design based on the original Y-Frame clock built in 1770, which today sits proudly at Chatsworth House – incorporates much of the original engineering found in the well-known antique. It is meticulously hand built, piece-by-piece, marrying new technology and three hundred year old techniques.

A commitment to the original Whitehurst ethos of mechanical firsts has allowed for the inclusion of a unique revolving polar projection. So, as well as marveling at the fascinatingly exposed intricate workings of the complication, you can continuously track the earth’s rotation – and keep a check on the time across the world in a most beautiful way.

The clock, which weighs-in at a substantial 18 kilograms without the stand, features a rare dual weight configuration and has been built with such mechanical responsibility, that it can be considered one of the best time keepers in the world, with as little as the loss of one second every two months.

As with original Whitehurst timepieces, all of the clock parts are made from material which comes from the same foundry, and, wherever possible, cut from the same piece to enhance precision. Some of the 18 wheels, which turn continuously, are made on machinery that has been making clock parts for hundreds of years. They have been carefully hand filed, hand polished through an eight-stage process and finished in a protective 24 carat gold to ensure a flawless result that can only be achieved through original techniques.

However, new digital and computer-controlled technology, along with the latest developments in materials, have been adopted for some elements – to create clock parts to a standard that even John Whitehurst could only dream about.

Whitehurst Clocks are built to order at a cost of £150,000 – £200,000. Each clock takes between six to nine months to hand build and, as with all Whitehurst clocks past and present, feature the official Whitehurst trademark within the working of the clock. Family crests can be hand engraved into the workings of the clock at the client’s request.

A Whitehurst craftsman will install the clock, and you will receive an official certificate of provenance & ownership upon installation wherever you are in world.

The care and support you receive is in keeping with the flawless Whitehurst experience. Each piece is designed to require minimal care from the owner and all timepieces are guaranteed for life. Support is provided in the form of a global network of Whitehurst approved horologists who will offer exceptional care and service to ensure your clock remains beautiful for life.

www.whitehurstclocks.com

Traditionally regarded as the preserve of canoodling couples and hideaway honeymooners, the picturesque resorts of the Maldives have invariably catered for kids as something of an afterthought.

Yet with fantastical, picture-book natural surroundings and warm, shallow lagoons teeming with multicoloured marine life, the islands are an inspiring, eye-opening treasure trove for young adventurers. Recognising this, Diva has further enhanced its already unrivalled family facilities – including no fewer than 18 interconnecting rooms and three interconnecting water villas – by adding a host of new services, facilities and activities designed especially for families.

photo credit: Easa Shamih.mv | P.h.o.t.o.g.r.a.p.h.y

Younger children are treated as guests in their own right from the moment they land at Diva, from being greeted in reception with a soft toy and fruit ‘mocktail’ to the personalised welcome letter and basket of sweets from The Nest that awaits in their villa. Equipped with indoor and outdoor play areas; soft ‘sleep’ room; special dining area; and TV and video games room, The Nest is a dedicated, supervised club for guests aged three – 12 years.

An imaginative range of fun, educational activities include traditional Maldivian arts and crafts such as shell necklace making, palm weaving, Bodu Beru dancing and Henna painting; the Young Mixologist certificate, where kids learn to mix their favourite juices to make the perfect drink; and the Young Environmentalist programme, in which they explore the island’s tropical flora, herb gardens and orchid nursery and learn to respect and care for nature.

Kids as young as eight eager to get their first glimpse of the Maldives’ kaleidoscopic underwater seascapes are welcome at Diva’s PADI-certified dive centre, which offers ‘Bubblemakers’ and ‘Discover Scuba’ introductory lessons, with special children’s diving equipment provided.

Families with babies and toddlers under three years of age can even stop by The Nest to stock up on essentials such as extra nappies, swimming nappies, milk bottle sterilizers and baby care kits. Young families will also be reassured to know that rooms can be equipped with comfortable baby cots on request, baby sitters can be booked to give Mum and Dad an evening off, and staff have a “nothing is impossible” approach to even the most pernickety parental requests. Even mealtimes are a breeze: all of Diva’s seven restaurants are equipped with baby chairs and colouring packs to keep younger children entertained, and offer specially devised, healthy kids’ menus which can be tailored by the island’s chefs to suit specific dietary requirements. Baby food products are also available.

Independent-minded teenagers craving their own space can avoid having their style cramped by parents or younger siblings by hanging out at The Place, Diva’s sports café-style club especially for 13 – 17 year olds. Teen guests can enjoy PlayStation and Wii games; table football; table tennis; big-screen sports events; and their own non-alcoholic, no-smoking bar. There are regular opportunities to meet and socialise with other teenage guests, from movie nights and video game contests to a teens’ club night at Musik on Tuesdays, a sunset cruise on Thursdays and sunset fishing trips every Tuesday.

TotsToo (www.totstoo.com; 020 7284 3344) offers seven nights at Diva from Ł5,755 for a family of four. Price based on two adults and two children sharing two interconnecting deluxe rooms and includes breakfast, return British Airways flights from London and seaplane transfers. Price shown is valid for travel until 30 September 2010.

Racing is thrilling. The ups and downs, the zero-sum game. The winner takes it all. But is ownership of a thoroughbred really just a rich man’s play thing or is there a smart stategy for making money on the track.

Loving horses is not a prerequisite for racehorse ownership. But it sure does help, especially when our expensive animal is costing a small fortune in maintenance and has yet to even place.

photo credit: osedgman

Like all smart investments, the real skill is finding the people who can make your money go far. And, again like other investments, finding the best people to manage the investment is in itself an expensive undertaking.

In ViVo Magazine (printed edition) we take a look at the pros and cons of horse racing ownership, asking whether or not it can ever be a sound financial move to put capital in to racing thoroughbred.

By Amanda Nicholls

Let me introduce you to a woman boldly dipping her toe into the pool of couture with her first UK venture, comprising a collection of beautifully cut bespoke shirts and a superb service to boot. AG Bespoke Couture has thrust itself onto the fashion scene with aplomb and with 28 year old, South-African born Anoesjcka de’Lorenzo at the helm, as face of the enterprise and brains behind it, the company has certainly made an arresting entrance.

Miss de’Lorenzo’s résumé is suitably impressive; having spent time in Giorgio Armani’s Milan factory and on Savile Row, under the watchful eye of top tailor Sean O’Flynn. It was while dining in Armani’s Milan restaurant that de’Lorenzo boldly approached the icon and eventually he put her in touch with his factory CEO.

“When I met Mr Armani I didn’t realise how fortunate I was and how that meeting would change my life. There is still a part of me that is awestruck; I look at him with admiration and respect for what he has achieved”, says Anoesjcka. “The more my company grows, the more awestruck I become, actually. When you begin, you take chances and you are fearless, as you have nothing to lose”. It is Mr Armani’s advice that she has found most valuable: “He told me to start with one thing only and make sure to do it well before doing anything else. So, for the moment we are focusing on shirts, but we have the bigger picture in mind and would love to branch out into the entire corporate wardrobe.”

She’s clearly found her niche in the high-fashion landscape; shrewdly choosing to concentrate first on the staple item of every professional. It does seem harder to find a well-cut shirt these days; Anoesjcka agrees that high-street stores have compromised on quality in recent times in order to broaden and maximise production. “We all want to keep up with fashion and express our individuality at a cost we can afford, but we should not make the mistake of buying something we can only wear once”.

Anoesjcka believes the biggest compromise has been on fit and feels standardised garments prioritising frills and bows at the expense of the basic cut, do not flatter the female frame. She describes her approach as a hybrid of classic style and solid, quality tailoring; conveying true craftsmanship. There is much European influence in each garment; shirts are handmade in Italy with French tailoring techniques. With all the work that goes into one piece, purchasing an AG Bespoke Couture shirt is undoubtedly an investment. Since the recession, de’Lorenzo says she has noticed a change in the way people buy high-fashion. However, she feels the majority of her target market still appreciate quality over quantity and consequently, prefer to buy from AG over companies that mass-produce.

Another major focus for the brand revolves around the idea of empowering women in the work place. According to the impressive South African, this is still a problematic issue in the majority of working environments. She believes the way women dress impacts on their confidence and in turn, affects success in the work place. While the Straight & Curvy range aims to make women feel beautiful, the classic style with defined collar and cuffs adds strength and professionalism to the look.

She also appreciates the difficulty in maintaining a good working wardrobe and feels her shirts complement many outfits, moving effortlessly from day to evening wear. For her, it is the focus on women’s body shapes, at long last, that is most exciting in fashion at the moment. “We are being educated on what we can wear, but the standard block sizes of the industry still need to change.

In terms of design, the recession has helped designers focus on creating pieces women can actually wear, rather than works of art for the catwalk. We are back to basics and I love the minimalist approach”. However, Anoesjcka points out that tailoring for men is just as important. “A good tailor can trick the eye and change the appearance of a man’s physique by using skilful tricks and cuts. It requires a combination of several techniques and an intense study of the human body!”

Already she’s secured the confidence of royal bank Coutts & Co and benefited from a few of their coveted commercial tips. Like Mr Armani, they have recognised the potential in this blonde bombshell with a bright business head. The emphasis on the bespoke, integral to the brand’s marketing, has also helped de’Lorenzo gain a corporate and celebrity clientele, all keen to get their hands on her smart threads.

I wonder who might be her next celebrity project. She confesses her love for sleek tailoring and salutes A-listers like Kate Moss. “I love it when she steps out in a tailored suit. Nothing can be sexier. I also admire the understated elegance of France’s first lady, Carla Bruni. My dream project is to be James Bond’s shirt-maker but I would love getting my measuring tape around James Corden. That would be a very funny experience and I think he would look fantastic in one of my shirts.”

Anoesjcka’s catalogue of contacts includes Harold Tillman, owner of Jaeger, whom she has her eye on to collaborate with someday. “He’s definitely the best-dressed man in town and his knack for the fashion business is phenomenal. He has given me great advice over the years and always has time for everyone”, she says fondly, highlighting a rare quality in this fast-paced industry. “I would also love to work with Chanel and learn their fundamentals. Karl Lagerfeld knows every curve in a woman’s body”.

Evidently a natural in front of the camera herself, I wonder whether de’Lorenzo prefers being in the spotlight or behind the scenes. With a smile, she reveals that as a model and trained actress, she’s not the least bit camera shy. Although, her main reason for modelling the collection has, of course, smart business logic behind it. As the face of the brand, customers are able to see her confidence in the product she is promoting. “I do not want to be a brand delivering pieces that people cannot relate to. I want customers to be comfortable giving their opinions, so we can constantly improve my designs”.

On vanity sizing and the size zero debate still raging in the fashion world, de’Lorenzo has clear views. As the name of her women’s collection suggests, she feels the variety of the female shape is something to be celebrated. “I think we need to be open-minded about this issue. It may affect a minority, but if someone’s daughter dies of anorexia because she wanted to be like her icon, or if children grow up thinking they will only make it if they are thin, then we have a huge problem. My sister had this illness so I understand the implications it has on loved ones. Eat, exercise and be happy!”

This is a woman with a wise head on her young shoulders. In fact, many of Anoesjcka’s incisive attitudes seem to hark back to those of previous decades, including her thoughts on tailoring style. I ask her what her favourite bygone era is, in terms of fashion. ‘The fifties for sure; especially Italian fifties glamour. Men’s tailoring was sharp and clean-cut and Chanel showed women how to create their own waist, as high or low as they wanted, by means of a belt. So, whether you had an easy or difficult figure, you were in control. Women oozed confidence because they were comfortable in their own skin. After that, I think relaxed shaping and mass production took over.”

Anoesjcka de’Lorenzo plans to expand her empire beyond the Regents Park Road store and is currently in talks with House of Fraser to make her shirts available to a wider audience. ‘Our female clients can now e-mail us their measurements and we will deliver their shirt right to the office. Soon, you will see the AG team running all over London delivering boxes wrapped in bows. It will seem like Christmas everyday”. It certainly is refreshing to see a young company putting quality at the centre of tailoring policy. As is de’Lorenzo’s enthusiasm for creating styles to suit a range of shapes, rather than one generic cut that only flatters its coat-hanger.

Her greatest challenge so far? Being a little fish in a big pond…with the occasional shark! She’s learned a lot during her meteoric rise to success and perhaps the most in fashion’s capital, Milan. There, she discovered the difference between fashion and style and realised that a confident, stylish woman will never be out of fashion. That and to beware of the Italian charm…

For more information, visit www.agbespokecouture.com

Photography by Dan Pothecary and make up by Kirsty McCall

Park Plaza Hotels & Resorts has launched five limited edition cocktails – inspired by each of the four women, plus Mr Big – to mark the launch of the second movie.

Available at seven of the Park Plaza UK hotels – each of the cocktails has been designed in conjunction with the official vodka of the film, Skyy vodka, using bottles created by the series’ and film’s infamous costume designer, Patricia Field. Each promises to taste as good as the film will look.

The Star of New York is Skyy vodka with a splash of lemon, gomme and cassis, served in a martini glass – a stylish, sassy drink and the perfect embodiment of Carrie Bradshaw.

Blonde Ambition, made with Skyy vodka, orange and lemon juice and fresh raspberries, is exactly what Samantha would drink – bitter sweet with a real kick down to the last drop.

Red Over Heels, a heady mix of grapes, basil and Skyy vodka, is a down-to-earth tipple which would suit all Miranda-types, whilst Park Avenue Princess, a pretty, pink concoction of Skyy vodka with passion fruit juice and campari is perfect for romantic, Charlotte-a-likes.

As you would expect, the Mr Big-inspired Mr New York, is a macho mixture of Skyy vodka with Wild Turkey, marachino and cola and should coax the men to get involved in the SATC-mania!

Any of the drinks are the perfect way to start or end an evening at the movies, or for you and your friends to simply enjoy a glamorous girls’ night out, Sex and the City-style.

Choose from the stylish bars at:

Park Plaza Riverbank on the Albert Embankment (18 Albert Embankment; www.ParkPlazaRiverbank.com);
Park Plaza County Hall (1 Addington Street; www.ParkPlazaCountyHall.com);
Park Plaza Westminster Bridge (200 Westminster Bridge Road; www.parkplaza.com/westminster);
Park Plaza Victoria London (239 Vauxhall Bridge Road www.parkplaza.com/londonuk_victoria);
Park Plaza Sherlock Holmes (108 Baker Street; www.parkplazasherlockholmes.com);
Park Plaza Leeds (Boar Lane City Square www.parkplaza.com/leedsuk);
Park Plaza Nottingham (41 Maid Marian Way; www.parkplaza.com/nottinghamuk)

The latest addition to Chelsea’s rather well stocked collection of impressive night spots is Tuatara, an opulent and inviting member’s club located not far from Sloane Square. Like the best restaurants and bars, this is one venue that you could walk past without noticing if you didn’t know it was there. A modest entrance is all it needs.

The interior concept is well delivered – regal splendour that would satisfy Kings Road’s original owner, Charles II, combines well with the relaxed opulence of the lounges and VIP areas. It’s a nightclub very much in the old school mould, expect a house band, signature cocktails, a restaurant and a roof terrace. There’s a tone of Middle Eastern elegance that subtly characterises this venue.

If you’re looking for somewhere to entertain clients or friends whilst in London, Tuatara offers a blend of style, refinement and personality that will make for a memorable night out.

For guest list and membership enquiries – info@tuataraclub.com

:: Body & Skincare

As the seasons change, your skincare regime changes aswell. To add the wow factor to your skin this Summer, we recommend…

DuWop Revolution

Often referred to as the best kept secret of Hollywood actresses, models, stylists and makeup artists, Revolution gives a subtle bronze glow. Revolotion Deep is a moisturizer that contains SPF 15 sun protection along with bronzing pigment and subtle shimmer. The streak-free, easy to apply formula is meant for legs, arms, back and decollate.

ViVo says: Wonderful self tanner, quick drying and perfect for a bronzed look.

Find out more … www.simplebeauty.co.uk

…………….

Jergens Total Nourishments

97% natural ingredients, Total Nourishment is formulated with a healthy dose of nature’s super-foods known to promote skin health and fight against free radical damage. Transforms dry skin to healthy looking, nourished skin.

ViVo says: Perfect for dry skin that needs a little extra moisture!

Find out more … www.jergens.co.uk

…………….

Tamu Organic Virgin Coconut & Lime Whipped Body Butter

High in minerals, the coconut oil is effective in removing dead skin cells resulting in a healthy glow. A super hydrating blend of fresh coconuts, uplifting lime, and lemon creates a tropical aroma.

ViVo says: This is a super rich moisturiser, a little on your palm goes a long way.

Find out more … www.naturesboutique.com

…………….

The Sanctuary Kyphi Honey & Lotus Nourishing Bath Creme

Delicately scented with Kyphi fragrance this nourishing bath crème with rich creamy bubbles will envelop you in an indulgent cocoon. Nourishing milk proteins and argan oil have been blended with sacred lotus oil, soothing honey and moisturising sweet almond oil to leave skin hydrated and silky smooth.

ViVo says: Gorgeous body wash with a long-lasting smell.

Find out more … www.thesanctuary.co.uk

…………….

:: Haircare

Herbal Essences Beautiful Ends Split End Protection Range of Shampoos, Conditioners & Mask

The new Herbal Essences Beautiful Ends Split End Protection range features a shampoo, conditioner, mask and  Red Raspberry & Silk helps protect your hair against split ends and breakage.

Available nationwide.

ViVo says: Fabulous smell, works wonders preventing split ends!

Find out more … www.boots.com

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:: Make Up

Lip Venom Plumping Paste

Plumpers have come a long way since the dawn of the original Lip Venom ten years ago. DuWop constantly strives for innovation in this category and has created a treatment masque for the lips that conditions, exfoliates, and plumps simultaneously. Plumping Paste has a rich consistency, dense with conditioners like castor seed oil and hydrogenated jojoba.

ViVo says: You can certainly feel the affect after applying!

Find out more … www.simplebeauty.co.uk

…………….

Natio Holiday Essentials Range

Encouraging the bronze goddess within, the all new Natio Holiday Essentials natural mineral bronzing products comprises of unique loose Mineral Foundation to Mineral glossy sheer lips glosses to Mineral Pressed Powder Bronzer, you can be quickly on your way to the beach with fresh, glowing, sun-kissed skin.

Available  from Debenhams nationwide.

ViVo says: This is a gorgeous range, we particularly love the long-lasting bronzing powder.

Find out more … www.debenhams.com

…………….

…And last but not least our Summer scents

:: Perfumes

Boss Orange for Women

Boss Orange for Women is a warm, complex and inviting fragrance that combines the uniquely liberating notes of crispy apple and white florals with a vanilla and sandalwood heart. They fuse to create a relaxed, unique scent you can wear with passion.

ViVo says: Lovely perfume, very Spring/Summer overtone – makes a fabulous day perfume.

Find out more … www.debenhams.com

…………….

Dream de Rachel Elbaz

Couture fashion designer Rachel Elbaz has recently released Dream de Rachel Elbaz, a seductive and sophisticated perfume that is a blend of jasmine, amber and patchouli. It comes in a beautiful hand-painted bottle and packaged in a smart fuchsia box with gold embossed lettering simply oozing style.

ViVo says: A gorgeous, truly distinctive scent that will turn heads as you walk by.

Find out more … www.rachelelbazcouture.com

We hope you’ve enjoyed this month’s column,visit next month to find out the latest and greatest luxury beauty products ViVo has found!

If you’ve longed to engage with the planet, to observe its scale, power and vulnerability on a rewarding level, but can’t reconcile the mechanics of explorative travel with your green ideals, then it may be time to redesign your approach to achieving your dream adventure escapade. A large portion of potential adventure travellers are yet to take the plunge due to their environmental concerns and their reservations about the authenticity of planned, guided experiences.  So it’s essential for many that exploratory travel is done in the spirit of conservation and sensitivity for local culture. Respect for nature and fostering a sense of place are at the core of Momentum Adventure’s tread lightly ethos, which is why their bespoke packages are so interesting.

With itineraries crafted to reflect the exacting requirements of the most discerning experiential travelers, Momentum have ushered in an intensely exciting new era for travel of this kind. Empowering their clients to explore the world’s hidden gems with confidence whilst enabling them to maintain a mood of wide-eyed awe is not an easy thing to execute, but these packages deliver such a combination masterfully.

 
Momentum Adventure’s bespoke itineraries introduce the adventurer to the most intense, satisfying adventures it’s possible to under take. They achieve this whilst maintaining a balance between drama and meticulous planning , this is what sets these experiences apart from other packages. The degree of expertise and passion involved in crafting the itineraries enable anyone from a novice backpacker to an experienced adventurer to sample once in a life time spectacles within a framework of consumate yet unobtrusive professionalism. It is the nature of traditional adventure travel that sacrifices to style and comfort are made to accommodate the essential aspect of discovery, but Momentum’s unique take on the concept allows for the most out of the ordinary experiences possible to flow seamlessly into some of the most luxurious.
 
Founded by Matthew Robertson, a traveller and explorer whose enthusiasm was sparked on expeditions with leading exponent Mark Diggins, Momentum Adventure’s premise is that every trip should be a voyage of discovery. To ensure this happens, a team member accompanies all adventures alongside world-renowned experts and guides to enhance the personal experience of the extraordinary. Local knowledge and experience add a seam of authenticity that you can’t get with a typical adventure package.

Due to the high level of personalised service, Momentum Adventure escorts little more than a dozen trips a year, each of them tailor-made and subject to detailed preparation. Clients receive one-to-one consultations, a computer programme that charts and monitors the countdown to an expedition, every piece of requisite equipment including top-of-the-range clothing as well as expedition photography as a memento of the journey. Trips can be tailored for individuals and groups, on a personal or corporate basis.

Whether Heli-Skiing in British Columbia or taking on the arid hostility of California’s Baja peninsula in a dune buggy, each journey delivers the ultimate in experiential travel. Rain forests, the Poles, Kashmir – each a unique venue for an intimate encounter with nature. Respite from the high octane activities on offer comes in various sublime forms. From wine tasting, remote hot springs and luxury accommodation in between adventures. It’s a rare opportunity to be able to be pushed to your physical and mental limits before rewarding yourself with a hot tub wind down, in the Arctic. Never before has it been possible to engage with nature so genuinely whilst maintaining a memorable degree of comfort and style.

 
A series of bespoke (and flexible) outline itineraries including more than 20 destinations have been created for 2010 within three distinct categories:
Sub-Zero (comprising South Pole, Arctic, Polar Research station, Spitsbergen)
Wilderness (comprising Borneo, Mongolia, Jordan, Yukon, Baja)
Ski (comprising Surf & Ski, Kashmir, Lebanon, Japan, British Columbia, St Moritz, Ski the World)

Momentum Adventure Journey packages start at £5,000

www.momentumadventure.com