Paolo Crepet and his wife Cristiana have created one of the most special hotels in Europe. Corte della Maestà is a monument to Italian beauty, and a living work of art that embodies the values of their owners: courage, passion and freedom. As I sit down in conversation with Paolo, I wish to understand how he became one of the best, and most unusual, hoteliers in the country.
The Maldives is a destination that I believe to be profoundly misunderstood, poorly characterised as a pretty, expensive beach. So I turn to Sue Kang, my Maldives maestra, to set the record straight.
A world-renowned scientist and marine conservationist is gladly pitching in to aid Rascal Voyages’ conservation efforts and meaningful travel.
During my last visit to Oslo, I was lucky enough to get reservations to Kontrast, a Michelin starred restaurant led by chef Mikael Svensson. The semi-industrial setting seemed perfect for experimentation and innovative cuisine. New Scandinavian in essence and origin, chef Svensson’s dished defy definition and are in constant evolution.
In a small street in Yangon, near the bend of the river, as you come near the shipyards, there is a shabby house. In its second floor, an adapted living room, U Khin Maung Htwe and his company are reviving the old art of puppetry. The show is wonderful, the intricacy of the movements is mesmerising, and the marionettes come to life before your eyes.
Delani is an impressive character. He has the build of the Māori warrior, his bulging arm muscles are a testimony to his craft: here’s a man that can shape a 2-ton piece of wood with his hands! His solemn Māori semblance pierces you with honest looks, he is utterly unpretentious. A master artist, he opens his mouth to speak, and from it comes a deep, syncopated voice.
Amit Sankhala is one of the most renowned names in Tiger Conservation. Using travel as a powerful tool to aid India’s big cat, he has become an innovative force in luxury travel, shifting the focus from exploitation to deeply rewarding wildlife experiences. He is, by all rights, this generation’s Tiger Man of India.
In the mountains of Japan, above mist-covered forest, there remain the echoes of powerful ascetics, in legend bestowed with supernatural powers and shrouded in mystery. Throughout history, some have been mountain guides, showing nobles around the sacred trails of the Kumano Kodo. Most have disappeared into myth, and their numbers have dwindled throughout history. Meet one of the Yamabushi.
Charles van Rensburg lives in the heart of southern Africa and has immersed himself in a career in conservation, wildlife, and safari excursions.
Hong Kong-raised Ben Simpson ventured to Africa as a teen and after a few short years, returned permanently. Having obtained a pilot’s license in Florida in the years between, Simpson’s dreams of a life less ordinary persisted,
