The Treloar’s Gala Dinner, Guildhall, London
24 April, £185pp

In aid of Treloar’s; a charity providing education, therapy and care to physically disabled young people, this year celebrates their 20 year anniversary. With a DJ set by Martin Kemp and an Emerald City theme, the party is hosted by the Lady Mayor and presented by radio and TV personality, Micheal Kurn. Tickets include a drinks reception, three-course dinner and silent and live auctions throughout the night. There’s only a handful of tickets left, so be sure to snap them up. www.treloar.org.uk

The Mariposa Ball and Awards, Landmark Hotel, London
25 April,  £230pp or from £2,100 for a table of 10

Goodwill hunters can also head to this celebrity-packed gathering the following night. Raising funds for Mariposa International, supporting people through baby loss and infertility, rub shoulders with names in the world of politics, business and media, while sipping Champagne and enjoying a three-course dinner with entertainment. Hosted by Bake Off’s Briony May Williams, and Sky Sports’ James Green, famous faces including Tamzin Outhwaite and Max Beesley will be there. Then there are the goodie bags, worth over £120. Think of it as do-good-feel-good maths. www.mariposaball.org  

The Big Dream Makers Ball, The Royal Lancaster Hotel, London
16 September, £350pp or from £3,250 for a table of 10

The only national charity granting wishes for children with a disability or serious illness living in poverty, this is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate their work and inspire future support. While this year’s celebrity entertainment is still being kept secret, the calibre is guaranteed to wow. Previously hosted by Russell Kane (above), this year’s host is British Paralympian, Will Bayley MBE. Expect an evening of elegant hospitality, exquisite meal and the opportunity to bid for amazing lots at auction. www.thebigtablecharitydinner.co.uk 

PowerBall at London Hilton on Park Lane, London
6 November, from £5,495 for a table of 10

Here’s another excuse for decadent dining, entertainment and networking. Raising funds for the Electrical Industries Charity, it supports people working in the electrical industries going through life’s challenges. Circulate with a flowing drinks reception before taking your seat for dining and live performances. You can also support the cause with a high-end raffle and silent auction, going home with your hands, stomach and heart all feeling deliciously full. www.electricalcharity.org

Bowie: Live on The Loch The Black Tie Gala, Cameron House Resort, Loch Lomond
7-8 November, from £2,500pp

Prefer rock and roll with your Rioja? This exclusive weekend celebrating David Bowie includes a black-tie gala dinner in aid of Save The Children. Showcasing a menu crafted by Michelin-starred chef, Graene Cheevers, it’s followed by a guitar auction of signed treasures hosted by Bowie’s bandmate, Earl Slick. There will also be screenings of never-before-seen Bowie footage and photography throughout the weekend. And, before the main event, there’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see Bowie’s Glastonbury band perform on the shores of the Loch. www.bowieliveontheloch.com

The Macmillan Ball, The Victoria & Albert Museum, London
19 November, from £5,500

Previously raising £475,000 to support people living with cancer and their loved ones, this year promises Champagne, fine dining and an after-party to remember. Household names such as Al Murray and Denise Van Outen have hosted the night in past years, and while this year’s host is still top secret, it has all the markings of being one of the best yet. Dress to impress and network savouring unlimited tipples, or snap up some exclusive items at the silent and live auction. www.macmillan.org.uk

The Winter Ball at The Dorchester Hotel, London
28 November, £450pp

Finally, arriving before the festive season, this glittering extravaganza has raised a £23 million for Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice over the past three decades. Offering a bill crammed with star-studded entertainment and hosted by presenter and actor, Bradley Walsh, enjoy a three course meal and the chance to bid yourself into oblivion for covetable artefacts. Finish by settling in for a night of a world-class cabaret and live music. www.noahsarkhospice.org

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Buying a yacht can seem like the pinnacle of success. After all, what could be more thrilling than waking to breathtaking anchorages and spending days under sail? But those tranquil seas can soon turn stormy if you fail to consider the practicalities of the boat ownership process. And especially if it is your first time making such a purchase.

Learn From The Experts

Ready to start the search? Don’t do it alone. Your first step should always be selecting professionals to make your fantasy reality. “It is essential you find a broker from a reputable company to guide you through the process,” says Nicci Perides, Head of Global Communications at Burgess. “A broker is there to guide you every step of the way. From securing private viewings to sourcing the best luxury yachts for sale from around the world – even when they are not on the open market – their expertise is your guarantee.” 

Not all brokers are created equally, however, and going for the best pays dividends. “Transactions can be complex and may take months to finalise. Ensure your brokerage has an unrivalled market knowledge, a global network and objective advice. You will also need to use a trusted lawyer and do your due diligence. Get an independent survey – technical and legal – along with a clear title to avoid costly mistakes. These are all vital checks your purchase team should do for you.”

What Type Of Boat?

The next consideration to think about is what type of sailing you wish to do. This will be a crucial indicator as to the type and size of vessel to buy. Will you be day cruising or do you crave some serious blue-water sailing? “It is important to determine your boat’s usage before investing. Are you looking for a private vessel for family and friends, or will you be looking to charter out?” 

Those looking for a private yacht, used solely for leisure and enjoyment, have different needs to those looking for a commercial yacht, which will allow the owner to offset costs by renting out to clients. Get your paperwork in order. Commercial yachts have stricter safety, crewing, and operational regulations, including compliance with international maritime laws and commercial yacht codes. A lucrative flip side is that commercial vessels may benefit from VAT exemptions and other tax advantages in some regions.

Keeping Afloat Of Your Dreams

Whichever way you plan to sail – big or small, private or commercial – buy the smallest vessel that will fulfil your needs, as larger yachts come with significantly bigger operating costs. “If you are still unsure, chartering before purchasing is a great option for most. This is because it offers invaluable insight into what you require with regards to builder, size, interior, and crew. Consider the total cost of ownership. This will include running costs, key expenses and, of course, depreciation.” Your initial outlay is just the start. Expenses including fuel, dockage, crew, maintenance and insurance usually run to 20% of a boat’s original price each year, with superyachts soaring fuel prices now costing around £2,000 an hour.

Still determined to get aboard? “Your brokerage will be perfectly placed to advise you on real time costs, and a reputable company will offer a full 360-degree service covering brokerage, charter, insurance, new build, operational management, and crew.” The secret is to quieten your inner ‘expert’ and put your trust in a team of professionals who live and breathe all things boats.

The post Setting Sale: Your Ultimate Guide to Buying a Yacht appeared first on Best of Living.

Leading the sale is Slash’s photo-matched, stage-used and autographed Gibson Les Paul ‘59 Custom Shop guitar, played during their Not In This Lifetime tour. That’s the first reunion tour since 1993 featuring Axl Rose, Slash and Duff McKagan. Stage-played guitars from Slash rarely appear at auction, particularly examples used on tour, so this is one to watch.

Also featured is George Michael’s photo-matched jacket, then worn in the music video for his 1987 hit Faith and also during live performances on the accompanying tour. Distinctive details align with well-known photographs taken during the era. Then there’s also an image captured backstage during the Japanese and Australasian leg of his 1988 tour.

Among the most significant is an autographed large-format promotional poster for John Lennon and Yoko Ono’s Double Fantasy. This was signed on the morning of 8 December 1980, only hours before Lennon’s death. Thought to be the last item he ever autographed, this is the first time the poster has been offered at auction. An accompanying audio recording also captures Lennon discussing the signing and retracing his signature in black felt-tip pen after the ballpoint ink failed to set.

The auction also includes a Shure 565 SD award gold microphone presented to Queen and used by Freddie Mercury. The microphone comes directly from the collection of Peter Hince, Queen’s head roadie and Mercury’s personal assistant on tour, to whom it was gifted by Mercury. This is the first example with direct provenance from Hince to be offered at auction.

So, do you want to know more? Here’s what you can bid on – and also how much the auction house expects the lots to go for:

Guns N’ Roses

Slash’s Guns N’ Roses photo-matched tour stage-used and autographed Gibson Les Paul ‘59 Custom Shop Guitar
Estimated at £150,000 – £300,00

George Michael

George Michael’s photo-matched Faith music video and tour custom La Rocka leather jacket
Estimated at £60,000 – £120,000

John Lennon and Yoko Ono

John Lennon autographed and annotated Double Fantasy promotional poster
Estimated at £60,000 – £120,000

Paul McCartney

Paul McCartney’s handwritten Goodbye first draft lyrics, 1969 
Estimated at £55,000 – £110,000

Jimi Hendrix

Jimi Hendrix, Noel Redding and Mitch Mitchell autographed 51st anniversary handwritten lyrics, 1967 
Estimated at £35,000 – £70,000

Queen

Freddie Mercury’s gold Shure 565 SD Microphone Award used for Top of the Pops performance, 1982
Estimated at £30,000 – £60,000

David Bowie

Aladdin Sane concept cover vintage proof print
Estimated at £25,000 – £50,000

Motley Crue

Nikki Sixx’s photo-matched autographed and inscribed stage-used Schecter J-4 Bass Guitar
Estimated at £10,000 – £20,000

Live Aid

Queen, Paul McCartney, George Michael, David Bowie, Elton John and others autographed Live Aid concert programme and assorted production paperwork, 1985
Estimated at £10,000 – £20,000

Oasis

Noel Gallagher’s Les Paul Custom 20th anniversary guitar played during the recording of Standing on the Shoulder of Giants and Heathen Chemistry 
Estimated at £10,000 – £20,000

Eurovision Song Contest

Eurovision Song Contest composer’s award trophy presented to Benjamin Alasu for The Code by Nemo 
Estimated at £10,000 – £20,000

Notorious B.I.G

The Notorious B.I.G.’s custom leather jacket worn in the Rhyme & Reason documentary 
Estimated at £10,000 – £20,000

Guns N’ Roses

Matt Sorum’s played and autographed Guns N’ Roses Partial Mapex Orion Series Drum Kit 
Estimated at £8,000 – £16,000

Amy Winehouse

Amy Winehouse’s photo-matched Fred Perry cropped trench coat 
Estimated at £4,000 – £8,000

Ed Sheeran

Ed Sheeran’s screen-matched and autographed jacket and worn ensemble pieces from the Shape of You music video `
Estimated at £3,500 – £7,000

How To Bid

The auction will take place live on 30 April, with bidding available online, by telephone, and via absentee bids for collectors worldwide. Auction registration is now open, and the full catalogue is available here.

Prop Store will also be hosting a special public free exhibition at London’s The Cumberland Hotel from 22-25 April, where fans and collectors will have the chance to see the highlight lots up close, before they go under the hammer. Find out more about The Cumberland Hotel event here.

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Marking the 150th birthday of exiled Punjabi Princess Sophia Duleep Singh, this must-see exhibition at Kensington Place — the childhood home of Sophia’s Godmother, Queen Victoria — offers an intimate look at Sophia and the remarkable women who influenced her: her sisters, Catherine and Bamba; her mother, Bamba Muller; and her grandmother, Jind Kaur, the defiant Maharani of the Sikh Empire.

Visitors follow the extraordinary tale of a family whose lives the Empire profoundly altered, yet who also became powerful agents for change in their own right. “Extraordinary women tell a story of courage, identity, and resistance,” says Putnam. “Presenting it within Kensington Palace gives us a rare opportunity to reflect on their intertwined histories and present objects that speak of both a global story and the personal stories of these women.”

Complex beginnings

Sophia was the daughter of Duleep Singh — the last Sikh Maharajah of the Punjab, whom the East India Company forced to surrender his lands in 1849. From there, he travelled to England, where he struck up a close friendship with Queen Victoria.

Sophia’s mother, Bamba Muller, was the daughter of a German banker and an enslaved Ethiopian woman. But while her mother grew up in poverty, Princess Sophia lived in luxury as an aristocrat at Elveden Hall in Suffolk. Her parents had remodelled the estate to resemble an Indian Mughal Palace.

Items from this residence — including an ornately painted Indian rocking horse and an Ottoman-style outfit Sophia wears in family photographs — illustrate the family’s rich but complex heritage.

A photograph of Sophia and her sisters, dressed as debutantes for their debut to society, also highlights the collection. “Princess Sophia was a noted society beauty and often appeared as one of high society’s ‘best dressed’,” says Putnam. “Another little-known fact about her is that she led Britain as one of the top dog breeders and trainers of her time. She especially loved Pomeranians and named her favourite dog, Joe.”

Princess pioneer

Aside from the dogs and dresses, people really celebrate Sophia today as the pioneering suffragette who used her profile to campaign for women’s right to vote. The exhibition presents an impressive collection of fascinating treasures—including personal letters, rarely-seen jewellery, photographs, and suffrage objects—to paint a vivid picture of this princess turned political force.

From her home in Hampton Court — where her godmother, Queen Victoria, had granted her residence —Sophia sold copies of The Suffragette newspaper and joined the mass boycott of the 1911 census. She scrawled a message across the form that the government had sent to record every person in the country: “As women do not count, they refuse to be counted. I have a conscientious objection to filling up this form.” The exhibition now displays this document for all to see as a core part of the collection, “No Vote, No Census.”

Lasting legacy

“As a member of the Women’s Tax Resistance League, Sophia was also taken to court three times for refusing to pay taxes,” says Putnam. We’ve displayed a banner with the slogan “No Vote, No Tax” about her role as a suffragette – a slogan that Sophia campaigned under herself.”  

The Princess never quietened; she marched alongside Emmeline Pankhurst at the Black Friday suffragette march. “After the events of Black Friday in 1910, she challengedWinston Churchill himself—then the Home Secretary. She wrote to him to criticise the violent police handling of 300 suffragettes who marched on Parliament, and to support one particular woman whom she saw the police treating badly. She never stopped; she dedicated her entire life to women’s rights. In the exhibition, you will see a photograph of Sophia and her sister, Catherine, attending a Suffrage dinner in 1930, alongside a copy of her Last Will and Probate document detailing her wishes for her estate. Sophia leftmoney in her will for women’s education, demonstrating a lifelong commitment to the cause she first took up as a young woman.”

And for that we remain eternally grateful.

Last Princesses of Punjab is now open to the public is included in the Kensington Palace admission (from £24.70 per adult and £12.40 children). For more information click here.

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The Music is Black: A British Story
18 April, V&A East Museum, London

The long-awaited V&A East Museum throws open its doors for the first time, taking prize position within East Bank in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Debuting with a landmark exhibition exploring 125 years of Black music in Britain, take a multi-sensory tour through your favourite sounds. From reggae to grime – look at their impact on UK culture. Musos and culture vultures will be enthralled. www.vam.ac.uk

Cheltenham Jazz Festival
29 April – 4 May, venues across Cheltenham

As one of Europe’s most respected jazz festivals, Cheltenham Jazz Festival celebrates its 30 year anniversary. What to expect at this six-day event celebrating world-class jazz? A programme teaming with international names and emerging talent – musical icons like Van Morrison, Mica Paris and Courtney Pine will all perform. www.cheltenhamfestivals.org

The Cognac Show
17-18 April, Glaziers Hall, London

Cognac connoisseurs will want to pencil in a visit to this enticing two-day event. Guaranteed to whet your appetite, savour sips from producers from across the Chante region, including over 200 Cognacs, Armagnacs and Calvados. There’s also a series of masterclasses plus a dream pour token, which allows you to sample a Cognac worth over £250. The drinks’ cabinet looks forward to your visit. www.cognacshow.com

Curiosity by the Glass Events
Throughout April, venues across the UK

Keen to restock your wine cellar? Coravin invites wine lovers across the country to explore specially curated by-the-glass menus of unusual and hard-to-find wines. Using Coravin’s pioneering wine technology – which enables wine to be poured without removing the cork – enliven your palette with bottles from less-known regions and emerging producers. www.guide.coravin.com 

State Rooms Tour
6-19 April, Welbeck Abbey, Nottinghamshire

This astounding estate has been home to the Dukes of Portland and their families since 1607, and is the proud owner of one of the biggest privately owned art collections in the UK after the Royal Family. Fancy a nosey? For just two weeks, you can grab a chance to explore parts of the abbey never revealed before, including prised Portland Collection pieces by Sir Peter Lely, John Wootton and Sir Joshua Reynolds. www.welbeck.co.uk

MasterChef Six Hands
18 April, Orion by Alex Webb, London

Mid-month, three of the UK’s most celebrated MasterChef the Professionals talents come together to present one menu, for one day only. Certainly one of the most eagerly anticipated culinary events of the year, the collaboration sees winner Alex Webb, and finalists Philli Armitage-Mattin and Bart Van Der Lee, join forces for an expertly crafted tasting menu. www.orionbyalexwebb.com

Grace Pervades
24 April-11 July, Theatre Royal Haymarket, London

Here’s an exciting chance to see legend of stage and screen, Ralph Fiennes, perform in the West End transfer of David Hare’s new play, Grace Pervades. Staring alongside Miranda Raison (Spooks), the story explores the extraordinary relationship between Sir Henry Irving – the first actor ever to be knighted – and Ellen Terry, the highest paid actress of Victorian stage. www.gracepervadestheplay.com

Salon Privé London
16-18 April, The Royal Hospital Chelsea, London

Showcasing the best in automotive craftsmanship with the elegance of an English garden party, Salon Privé returns to Chelsea. Soak up the excitement of Opening Day on the 16 April, go all out for Ladies Day on the 17 April – or rev your engine ready for Supercar Saturday on the last day. Visitors can relish global model unveilings, classic car displays, plus plenty of luxury retail and fine dining. www.salonprivelondon.com.
Want to win four tickets to the Saturday event? Click here.

English National Ballet Body & Soul
30 April-2 May, Theatre Royal, Plymouth

The English National Ballet returns to Plymouth for the first time in 36 years with a production inspired by the bold, diverse voices driving ballet today. It’s a show of two halves, the first by five-times-Olivier-winning choreographer, Crystal Pite. Then there’s the second choreographed by Kameron N. Saunders, an artist with a massive following dancing for some of the world’s biggest names in pop. Even the curtain-cautious will be converted. www.ballet.org

Oyster Yachts Private View
29 April-3 May, St Katherine Docks, London

And finally, this month also brings some fabulous events at St Katherine Docks including spring markets, flower installations and Easter activities for children. But perhaps the most tempting is a private view from British yacht builder, Oyster, who will present various blue water models to make your yachting dream a reality. www.skdocks.co.uk

The post Here are Some of the Places To See and Be Seen At This April appeared first on Best of Living.

You started UpCircle with your brother back in 2016, at just 22. How did the brand came about?

“We noticed how many coffee grounds were being thrown away by cafés every day and began wondering whether that ‘waste’ could actually have value. Coffee is packed with antioxidants and is fantastic for exfoliating skin, so we started experimenting with turning used coffee grounds into a natural face scrub. This quickly grew into something much bigger as we started collecting coffee grounds from cafés and creating our first product. Our goal was always to prove that sustainability and high performance skincare could go hand in hand. That mindset still drives everything we do today.”

Do you think the beauty industry is finally waking up to their responsibility to be sustainable?

“To a degree. When we started the idea of upcycled beauty ingredients was still very niche. At the time we were explaining the concept constantly, because most people had never heard of by-products being used in skincare. We’re proud to now be upcycling more than 60 by-product ingredients into our range. Now the conversation has shifted significantly. Consumers are far more conscious about waste, sourcing, and environmental impact. That means the beauty industry is starting to respond. But there is still a long way to go. True sustainability requires brands to rethink supply chains, packaging and production. It needs to go deeper than surface level claims.”

How do you source your repurposed ingredients? 

“We look at industries that generate natural by-products and ask whether they might have beneficial properties for skin or hair. For example, we work next door to florists, and noticed their bins filling with unsold roses – so we now upcycle rose petals into our bath salts. We work with countless suppliers in this way, identifying ingredients that would otherwise be discarded. We design for performance first – because sustainability that underperforms will not scale. For example, our Shampoo Crème is made with upcycled pink berry extract from the fragrance industry and delivers three times the washes of a standard liquid shampoo while using 50% less water.”

UpCircle achieved a £18m valuation during a successful crowdfunding campaign – how did that feel?

“It was an incredible experience for us. Seeing people believe in what we were building enough to invest was hugely emotional. We closed the round overfunded in less than 48 hours!”

You also received investment from Dragons’ Den’s Touker Suleyman and Tej Lalvani. Why do you think you succeeded where so many fail?

“We actually never accepted their investment! Yes, we shook hands on air, but after meeting with the Dragons following the show we decided not to proceed. Upcycling was not just a marketing message for us. It was the foundation of the business and something we genuinely believed in.”

With the business thriving, are there any luxuries you allow yourself which you couldn’t before?

“One of the biggest luxuries is simply having a brilliant team around us. In the early days my brother and I were doing everything ourselves, from packing orders to attending trade shows. Now we have an amazing team who bring expertise across different areas of the business. That allows us to focus more on the bigger picture.”

Affordability is also very much part of your brand’s ethos. Why is this so important to UpCircle?

“Sustainable choices should not be reserved for a small group of people. If we want sustainability to become the norm, it has to be accessible. That is why we work hard to keep our products competitively priced while maintaining high quality ingredients and responsible sourcing. We want customers to feel that choosing a more sustainable option is easy rather than a luxury.”

What are your top sellers?

“Our absolute top sellers include our Eye Cream, Face Moisturiser and Peptide Serum. The Peptide Serum is made with upcycled custard apple and blood orange water, and is clinically-proven to improve skin elasticity by 29% in just 14 days, which is HUGE! Customers often come for the sustainability story, but stay because the products genuinely work.”

And finally, what has been your most rewarding moment?

“It’s so hard to choose! Being commissioned to write a book filled with my DIY skincare recipes, being listed in Forbes 30 Under 30, winning £250,000 for my idea for UpCircle’s first ever TV advert – these are all things that I can’t actually believe happened! Seeing how the brand has grown from a small idea into a global business is something I feel very proud of.”

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A prenup acts as an “insurance policy”, reducing uncertainty and potential conflict if you break up. Nobody wants to spend their wedding planning thinking about divorce, but prenups give clarity and communication. Here are my five top tips.

Discuss your intentions openly and honestly
Have an honest discussion with your partner to discuss intentions and expectations. You may wish to consider which assets to put in to protect as yours. Agree which assets to share, and provisions made in the event of a relationship breakdown. Think about how future changes in circumstances might affect the agreement. For example, if career paths change, or if you have or adopt children. These factors can influence your prenup because they impact your finances.

Seek independent legal advice in good time
This can take three to six months and depends on the complexity of the agreement. Will you openly disclose everything you have with each other and your solicitor? Or will you seek advice from other professionals such as financial advisors? It is often not a quick process, so seek legal advice as early as possible. This will enable plenty of time to finalise matters before your wedding.

Ensure that the document records your agreement 
Typically, one of you instructs a solicitor to prepare a draft prenup, and the other instruct a solicitor to review it. It is common for the document to go through several revisions. This is to ensure the terms are balanced, and reflect what both have agreed. Try not to be alarmed if it takes longer than you expect. The purpose is to create a fair arrangement that both parties feel comfortable with.

Implement any necessary provisions
Many prenups include provisions that require you to take practical steps once you sign the document. For example, the agreement may stipulate how you should own property. It may direct you to put insurance policies in place to protect income or assets, or require you to prepare or update your Wills. Your solicitor will advise you on the practical steps to consider once you sign your prenup; it is important that you deal with these as soon as possible.

Remember to review the agreement
Do not view a prenup as a document you cannot change. Review the agreement periodically — usually every five years — to ensure it still reflects your financial circumstances and family situation. This keeps the agreement relevant and fair, helping it carry more decisive weight if you dispute matters in court upon separation. Strictly speaking, the current law in England and Wales does not make prenups legally binding. However, if you meet certain criteria — such as ensuring the agreement is fair, and entering it freely without undue influence — the court will give it decisive weight if your relationship breaks down.

Planning a wedding shouldn’t mean planning for a divorce, but your financial security is hugely important. The earlier you think about it, the better.

The post Considering a prenup? Here’s all you need to know appeared first on Best of Living.

“In the past 15 years, we’ve seen the top-end markets for collector cars and fine art becoming increasingly similar. This makes sense, given how much collector cars and artworks have in common as investments. Both offer strong potential to hold their value in the face of rising inflation. They also have a role in creating portfolios to pass down through inheritance. In fact, classic cars’ tax profiles (usually classed as wasting assets) can be particularly beneficial from an inheritance perspective.”

Timing is key
“Understanding how acquisitions and resales are currently balanced is the most important element in assuring a positive return. Right now, purchases made before 2014 to 2015 are still generating good returns. However, cars acquired during the speculative market of 2021 to 2023 are generally at a loss. Do some research into what the market is currently favouring to ensure you get the best deal you can. This is regardless of whether you’re buying or selling.” 

Become a subject matter expert
“It’s crucial to understand the vehicles you invest in. This includes the history, provenance and originality. It will also help when it comes to selling in future, as buyers are more likely to trust you if you’re seen as an authority, and backed by invoices of regular care. The more specific your knowledge, the better. Knowing everything about Porsches does not help when dealing with Maseratis. Maximising your return also requires a different approach than art. It largely relies on participating in Concours d’Elegance at the top level, such as Villa d’Este or Pebble Beach. Or dynamic exhibitions involving some risks, like the Mille Miglia, Monaco GP Historique, or Le Mans. Eligibility for these events is a key driver of value for the respective categories and periods.”

Don’t underestimate sentimental value
“For a lot, collecting cars isn’t just a financial investment, but their passion. Many will build a collection with the intent of passing it onto the next generation. This makes it a sentimental action, as well as one that will benefit them financially from the cars’ eventual sales. We can see personal preference win out over what might be considered the ‘smarter’ choice in the recent sale of the Bachmans’ 46 Ferraris at Mecum auction house. Despite the unusual colour schemes of the cars, the results exceeded expectations, and even beat records – selling for a total of $125 million (£92 million).” 

Purchase strategically
“If you’re looking for a shorter-term approach, newer, limited-edition models are an option. We saw this in Zurich with Deborah Mayer’s collection of 42 supercars. Limited editions from the last 30 years, they were pristine, with delivery miles or slightly more. Their value had increased significantly, thanks to scarcity and fashion. They sold for a total of $87 million (£64 million) in RM Sotheby’s highest ever grossing European sale. However, beware, as some brands such as Ferrari are trying to control this speculative approach to buying, ‘blacklisting’ suspected ‘flippers’. It’s also important to remember that transaction costs, despite being less than art, are still high (around 10-15% at auction). So, a significant portion of the appreciation is going to be absorbed by intermediaries and, in some cases, taxes such as VAT.”

Look after your investments 
“Whichever way you decide to invest, taking care of them is paramount to anything else. This means dedicating the proper time and money to safe storage, regular care, insurance, and maintenance. It can vary car-by-car, so take note of the different requirements for each make. I’d recommend regular driving (at least monthly, and always with enough time for the engine to warm up), storage in a dry and well-ventilated area, regular servicing, and washing by hand.”

A final word
“Collecting cars is as much an art form as it is a hobby. Collectors and investors have always had an advantage: an immaterial and non-quantifiable return from the pleasure of owning the cars they love. Then there’s the opportunity to participate in a community with like-minded people. This passion, paired with knowledge and care, can make cars one of the savviest investments you can make.”

The post Motor masterpieces: how classic cars have driven into the art world appeared first on Best of Living.

Tell us about your company, Extra Travel, and what you offer.
“We design and manage high-level travel experiences across Ibiza and beyond. We work directly with property owners, yacht owners, and selected operators to control the full journey. I suppose what we really do is match people to places in a way that feels intentional. Not just a villa, not just a boat, but the right environment and the right experience for that particular moment.” 

How did you get into the luxury travel market?
“I have always been drawn to building environments and businesses, but when I moved to Switzerland early in my career, I learned how high standards are executed, not just marketed. I also learned that most of the luxury travel market is incredibly boring, staged, and doesn’t live up to the promise. I wanted to change that.”

You are still only 26 – what do you think has driven you to succeed?
“I don’t really see it as ‘success’ yet. I just see it as momentum. I’ve always had a hard time sitting still. When I was 18 I started my first business, and since then I’ve just kept building things. Some worked, some didn’t, but I’ve never really stopped.”

Your company promises one-of-a-kind experiences. What special extras can a client expect?
“It’s very often genuinely over the top – not in a tacky way – but in a controlled, deliberate way. We have access to off-market villas and yachts that aren’t publicly listed, which really changes the level of what’s possible. If a client wants a fully private villa takeover with chefs, performers, security and last-minute guest changes, we build it. If they want a yacht day that turns into a floating dinner with live music at sunset, we make it happen. If something technically ‘can’t be done’, that’s usually where it gets interesting for us. The scale may be big – but the attention is always one-to-one.”

It is not uncommon for your clients to spend almost £70,000 on a five day holiday. Have you noticed a trend for shorter but ultra-extravagant breaks?
“Yes, definitely. The people we work with don’t really have the luxury of disappearing for three weeks, but they want to switch off properly when they go away. So instead of stretching it out, they go all in. Private villa, yacht days, curated dinners, access to places you can’t just book online. It becomes very concentrated. ‘Nice’ isn’t impressive anymore. The trips may be shorter but they’re sharper too.”

What are the most decadent requests you have received from clients?
“Plenty! We’ve had everything from clients requesting helicopter transfers directly onto yachts, to arranging private villa parties with well-known DJs. Most decadent requests are actually about exclusivity and timing. Access to something that isn’t publicly available, or creating a moment that feels personal and elevated rather than just expensive.”

You specialise in the ultra-luxury market in Ibiza. What in particular does it offer high-net-worth travellers?
“Ibiza offers energy you can’t manufacture. It’s raw, social, and a bit chaotic in the best way. You have privacy if you want it, but you also have this undercurrent of music, creativity and freedom that runs through everything. For well-heeled travellers, it’s not just about a big villa. It’s about access. We are also launching in Mallorca soon, so watch this space. I love this destination because it is a place focussed on quiet luxury. No noise, no scene. People go there to reset. Big private estates in the mountains, sea views without ten yachts parked next to you. Long lunches, good wine and actual silence at night.”

So how do you see Extra Travel evolving?
“We’re currently adding a real estate arm called More Ibiza, which is very exciting. A lot of our clients don’t just want to visit anymore, they want to stay. They fall in love with the island and start asking about buying. So it made sense to support that properly. Not as random brokers, but as people who already understand their lifestyle. It’s a natural extension of what we’re already doing.”

The post Interview: luxury travel market’s Domenique Wissink appeared first on Best of Living.

Scarcity alone doesn’t make a stone desirable. But when a limited geographic origin combines with saturated colour, extraordinary light performance, and a compelling history, the result is something that can outshine a diamond in every sense. “People assume diamonds are the pinnacle of rarity,” says Blake Asaad, Founder and Creative Director of Goodstone, a leading provider of exquisitely crafted diamond jewellery. “But some of the most extraordinary stones on earth are ones most buyers have never considered. Here are six gemstones that go beyond diamonds in rarity and visual luxury, As well as what gives each one its high-end appeal.” www.goodstoneinc.com

Tanzanite

Found in a stretch of land near Mount Kilimanjaro, tanzanite is estimated to be around 1,000 times rarer than diamond. Its deep violet-blue colour gives it a visual weight that rivals even the finest sapphire. The stone also shifts between blue, violet, and greenish tones depending on the angle of light. “What makes tanzanite so compelling is its geographic exclusivity,” says Blake. “There is literally one place on earth where it exists. That kind of scarcity feels real, and buyers are increasingly attuned to that.”

Alexandrite

Discovered in Russia in 1830, alexandrite appears emerald green in daylight and changes to ruby red under incandescent light. It’s a phenomenon so dramatic it earned the nickname “emerald by day, ruby by night.” Natural specimens of high quality are among the rarest gemstones in the world. “The colour change isn’t subtle,” says Blake. “It’s an extraordinary optical event, and the fact that fine natural specimens are exceptionally scarce only adds to the appeal.”

Paraíba Tourmaline

When Paraíba tourmaline was discovered in Brazil, it caused a stir for one simple reason: nobody had seen a blue quite like it. Powered by trace amounts of copper, its neon blue-green hue appears to glow from within. Despite additional deposits being found in Mozambique and Nigeria, global production remains extremely limited. “The saturation is unlike anything else in the gem world. It reads as extraordinarily luxurious because it simply doesn’t look like anything else.”

Kashmir Sapphire

Mined high in the Himalayas during a brief window in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Kashmir sapphire deposits ran dry in the 1930s. Every specimen in existence today is irreplaceable.  Their colour, a soft, velvety cornflower blue with a luminous inner glow, is the benchmark against which all other sapphires are measured. “Their scarcity is absolute. The mines are gone – what exists is what exists, and auction prices reflect that very clearly.”

Burma Ruby

Myanmar’s unique geological conditions produce rubies with a vivid, almost fluorescent red that gemologists describe as “pigeon blood”, pure, saturated, and internally luminous. At major auction houses, exceptional Burma rubies have consistently achieved record per-carat prices. “The red has an intensity that photographs struggle to capture. It’s a stone that genuinely competes with anything the gem world has to offer.”

Jadeite

Imperial-grade jadeite, with its intense green and high translucency, has been among the world’s most prized stones for thousands of years. There’s a Chinese saying that captures its status perfectly: gold has value, but jade is invaluable. “Top-quality imperial jade has a depth and presence that is genuinely hard to describe. The way the best material seems to hold light inside it is unlike anything else.”

The post Expert Reveals Gems That Outshine Diamonds in Rarity and Looks appeared first on Best of Living.