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Known for their detail-oriented and holistic approach, MMPC is New York’s top exterminating service of 2022. MMPC has not only been around for years and utilized by big-named corporations and celebrities alike, they’ve earned a stellar reputation for keeping unwanted houseguests from repeat visits time and time again. We recently used them to service a large 1,800 square-foot loft space in Manhattan. The job wasn’t little and involved closing large radiator floor holes, wall gaps, holes around water pipes and more – to seal-away everything from small rodents to water bugs. The MMPC team arrived fully-equipped with every possible tool one could imagine for the job. Their professional demeanor was evident from the first few minutes through communication, a detailed plan of attack and the use of masks in the space to protect those around them. MMPC used specialized foam, caulk, organic sprays and more to ward-off critters from the premises. The clear caulk was used around every floor board including inside closets and hidden places one would never even dream bugs may be hiding. The MMPC team entered two bedrooms, two bathrooms, filled-in gaps under sinks and cabinets and didn’t miss one beat. They were in the space a total of 6 hours to be sure it had all been completely buttoned-up. The before photo below illustrates just how large the holes were around radiators. After being filled, the area was left seamlessly blocked and visually appealing – not messy or sloppy as it could have been at the whim of less skilled hands. The photo below depicts just how wide gaps were between the floors and baseboards – and easy “in” for a variety of bugs throughout the year. After the gaps were filled, there was no possible way the space could be infiltrated. We loved MMPC’s knowledge and professionalism on this project. They are more than capable and willing to put in the work to do the job right. For anyone seeking a thorough investigation and completion of an extermination project, MMPC is the best in New York.

St. Barth Properties , which is affiliated with Exceptional Stays, offers the ultimate collection of luxury villas on an island steeped with perpetual legend, sun and sand. The company is known for its personalized service as well as having a concierge team that services guests in the most detailed way from the moment their St. Barth Commuter plane touches down until they leave. St. Barth Properties offers a friendly team in the United States and on the ground in St. Barth to make clients’ stay seamless, easy, and truly relaxing. We experienced this firsthand with a five-night stay at Villa Sunrise Sunset in Pointe Milou – one of the most serene parts of the island. Villa Sunrise Sunset sits on a private perch overlooking a wide stretch of The Caribbean Sea. The sunsets are so beautiful and intense, they informed the name of this villa which has views from Lorient and over to St. Jean – including the famous airport landing strip. The villa feels, immediately upon entering, like its set in a secret garden, tucked away. The open-air concept offers three bedrooms with their own bathrooms and ample outdoor areas for taking-in the spectacular views. There are two bedrooms inside the main home and another located in a separate pavilion with its own garden space. This makes the perfect stay for family members of different age groups or a group of friends looking for togetherness and, also, a little privacy. Bathrooms are clean and white, with granite countertops and rain showers. St. Barth Properties makes sure to have all necessary things set for guests upon their arrival. This can include: extra towels, sheets, daily housekeeping services and even pre-shopping services to stock the villa for your arrival. The largest bedroom in the main house is sizeable and boasts phenomenal views over the sea from a private terrace. The kitchen inside Villa Sunrise Sunset is large and elegant. The space includes a large refrigerator, plenty of cabinets for snacks, a Nespresso machine and an endless selection of plates, cups, wine glasses, and more for lunches or dinners at home. The coziest area of Villa Sunrise Sunset, to me, is the little TV nook which is perfect for a late-night chat with friends or family over a glass of wine. The television, for those who choose to watch it while relaxing, offers satellite television as well as most smart TV applications. But, far and away, the most magical spot for a meal is at the outdoor dining table. There is also an outdoor living area, but the table is perfect for breakfast with the iconic views. If desired, St. Barth Properties can book a private chef or have their concierge team deliver breakfast each morning to your group – so you can simply wake up and enjoy. The pool area at Villa Sunrise Sunset is serene and special. Surrounding the sparkling waters that cascade over an infinity edge is comfortable lounge chairs with towels. You can spend hours here sipping a cocktail and soaking-up the sun, loaded-up with SPF of course. And, with no noises except for the chirping birds overhead, you won’t find a more relaxing spot. I spent much of my time at Villa Sunrise Sunset here by the pool. Of course, I left for a dinner here and there, or a quick errand. But, when you have all of this in one place, who needs to leave? St. Barth Properties not only curates a fabulous selection of villas on this incredible island to choose from, but they really do offer many different price points and styles. They make your stay so easy and eliminate the need to think much beyond what you’re going to wear to the beach. This, in all actuality, is truly vacation – and they know how to give their guests that very valuable feeling.

There are many hotels in famed Positano, but none quite as luxurious or special as Villa Treville . The former seaside home of both Mikhail Semenov, the Russian writer, and Italian director Franco Zeffirelli. The estate has hosted famous guests throughout the years including Maria Callas and others – serving as an intimate spot on the coast to discuss philosophy, music and world affairs. Today, the property is a very exclusive hotel and one that feels still like a private home – but yours. There is, quite simply, nothing like it. Positano is very famous and with that comes a lot of good things and a lot of bad things. A stunning town on the Amalfi Coast, Positano is often crowded and hotels full. But, Villa Treville offers a very different experience. Here, you can feel like one of a few who have access to the beautiful town but are not faced with the masses. Instead, you can peer across the water at the homes and buildings that cascade down the cliffs and reach it by foot or boat whenever you feel the ned for a visit. In the meantime, you will be cocooned in utter luxury. Just 7 rooms are available that seem to be in their own separate areas of the property for maximum privacy Rooms at Villa Treville feature unique Neapolitan furniture, Murano glass and Vetri tiles. Each detail is splendid, from the Mediterranean views, coffee stations, huge bathrooms, luxurious robes and cloud-like beds. These rooms allow you to truly unwind and sleep deep – prepared to take-on the day ahead. I checked into Villa Treville after an overnight flight to Naples, Italy and about a 90-minute drive down the beautiful coastline. Check-inn was easy and quick, a welcome drink offered and tour of the property which took my breath away. Every corner and nook offers a view, a sitting area, a citrus grove or flower patch – something to behold. My room was outfitted with one of the most stunning bathrooms I’ve ever seen and even offered a window with a view of the sea. The area was large with a walk-in shower to scrub the salt water off at the end of a swim. What I loved most about my room in the three nights I stayed on property was the incredible terrace. The private outdoor area was draped in fabulous outdoor furnishings, greenery, sitting spaces to enjoy breakfast and views for days. Every morning I would wake with this very view and order breakfast to the terrace if I wasn’t eating it upstairs at Villa Treville’s restaurant, Maestro’s. Italian specialties were always on offer and the chef made nothing off limits. Villa Treville operates on an, “if you want it, you’ll get it” mentality – including food. If you’re in the mood for a particular type of pancake, they’ll do it. I ordered lemon-ricotta pancakes two mornings and they were heavenly. You’ll want to jump into bed at night just to wake-up for the breakfast. And, service at Villa Treville is impeccable – no beat is missed. After breakfast I would usually head down to my favorite place on property, the greenhouse. Of course, that’s hard to choose when there are places like an oceanfront sunbathing deck, pool and bar – but it was just so special. I would sit for an hour or so, just to take-in the view. Maestro’s at Villa Treville also offers dinner with a seasonal, changing menu. But, as I mentioned earlier, nothing is off limits here. The chef will prepare most anything for you. I stuck to seafood most of the trip as Villa Treville is on the Mediterranean after all. Each dish is composed of delicate local produce. And, some nights you might find the chef is feeling experimental with offerings like Japanese tempura. Food is such a large part of Italian culture and there’s nothing different about that at Villa Treville. After three nights on-property, I couldn’t help but think that this was probably one of the most incredible hotels I’ve ever stayed with – at least in the top three. It is not just luxurious and beautiful, but comfortable, special and one-of-a-kind. To me, there just is nowhere else I’d rather stay on the Amalfi Coast.

Blacklane is my absolute favorite on-demand car service in Europe, and elsewhere, for 2021 for not only its luxurious rides but its safety measures during the COVID-19 pandemic. In a world where Uber is king and so are unwelcome surprises with drivers and car quality, Blacklane is a reliable service that allows you to book seamlessly on one of the best transportation apps created in a long time, and adjust your ride times at the flick of a finger without problem. Blacklane exists throughout Europe and North America and in most major cities, even places further afield. I rode with Blacklane recently from Naples Airport in Italy to the beautiful village of Positano – which is about a 90-minute trek down the stunning Amalfi Coast. I booked using the Blacklane app and did so just before flying from New York on an overnight flight. I landed smoothly and received a text from Blacklane with my driver’s name. I replied to let him know I would be out shortly and was met with a sign by a friendly gentleman wearing a suit and escorted to a beautiful Mercedes sedan. Inside the vehicle it was spotless with nothing in sight but extra masks, hand sanitizer and waters to hydrate. This made me feel so good during this pandemic and with newfound hygiene habits. The driver asked if I wanted the windows down for extra air flow, or if I wanted them left up. This too was a welcome question considering the situation. I chose to put the windows down a bit to enjoy the sunny day and watch the cliffs drift by as we meandered down the coast. Blacklane drivers are always on-time, professional and courteous. I have used the service many, many times and it has never faltered. Even on my return trip, Blacklane arrived to my hotel in Positano 20 minutes early and assisted with bags to keep us on track to return to the airport. In situations where you need an airport transfer, day of shopping around the city or a quick jaunt – in style, Blacklane is the best.

Traveling from Marrakech to Merzouga can take up to 12 hours by car, but the ride is absolutely stunning. Roaring through the Atlas mountains, across the plains and through ancient villages will keep you entertained for hours. There are plenty of wonderful places to stop and rest, such as the UNESCO World Heritage site, Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou , or Morocco’s desert filmmaking capital of Ouarzazate . You can also get to Merzouga much faster if you opt for the more expensive helicopter route, which takes roughly 90 minutes from Marrakech. But, we recommend the road for first time visitors. Once in Merzouga, there are several Kasbahs and hotels in the region where you can stay overnight. The draw here are the magnificent sand dunes which seem to come out of nowhere and stretch for miles. Wake a 4:00 am and catch a camel into the desert where you can witness the most incredible sunrise you’ll ever see in your life. Words just cannot describe this amazing place.

Tongabezi , a part of Green Safaris, in all its welcoming and luxurious glory, sits proudly on the banks of the Zambezi river near the Zambian side of Victoria Falls. A family-run operation with true heart and soul, this beautiful lodge beckons any lover of nature, community and luxury to visit. I was a recent guest here and fell in love with not only the place, but the warmth that seems to permeate every corner. Arriving the lodge is easy, as it is a mere 30 minute drive from Livingstone Airport, one of the main gateways to Victoria Falls. Zambia is a beautiful country with diversity in game parks and rural land, but Victoria Falls is a true icon of the country. Tongabezi is set off the main road and cocoons you in a Swiss Family Robinson-like environment for your stay on the Zambezi river. You might be in the wilderness, but luxury is never sacrificed. This is important. The property offers a stunning array of villas, pool, gym, dining areas, bars and outdoor areas that are well-manicured and ready for you to plop down and relax when you’re not exploring the local sites. Upon entering the lodge for the first time, I was met with a glass of champagne and led out to the waterfront deck where check-in took place. What a view of the full river I had while getting familiarized with the property and the way things work at Tongabezi. The sounds of nature were dominant as I heard birds, hippos in the river and monkeys playing overhead. Tongabezi is a place to truly experience nature’s music box – in the most organic of ways. My villa, appropriately named Nut House, was absolutely stunning. The structure really was its own separate property with a huge welcoming bedroom, living area, dining area and outdoor terrace. The canopy bed was like a cloud and shrouded in local fabrics, beautiful sheets and mosquito netting for nighttime comfort. The air-conditioned structure was decorated with everything from baskets, paintings, ceramics and fabrics – layering texture and story into the space – making it a real trip for the senses. Every corner seemed to have an item that would spark conversation and, even after three days here, I was still noticing new objects and art. The details in the room were fabulous, from books to a small mini bar, fresh water and coffee station. The closet was huge and the room truly made me feel like I could move in for a month, and be totally at home. The bathroom was fit for, well, a king, and featured a lovely soaking tub which was often drawn for me in the evenings with flower petals and a huge open shower, that offered views of the rushing river. Out every window of Nut House nature was present, which led to deep and restful sleep. I don’t think I’ve slept as well as I did at Tongabezi in a long time. The staff on-property did all they could to make my stay incredible and made sure that special elements were incorporated into every experience at the lodge. Each morning, one of the lovely staff members would deliver a beautiful breakfast that I would take on the terrace, near the plunge pool, gazing-out over the river. This was a true meditation moment and one that helped me set my intention for the day. Tongabezi offers many of these moments, and opportunities to just breathe. Days were spent lounging around by the pool and one day, in particular, was spent at Victoria Falls. Tongabezi will help arrange a tour of the falls, a visit to Livingstone private island for lunch, a visit to a local village and even walking with rhino. They have been in operation for decades and are truly integrated into the local fabric enough to offer their guests experiences that may note be accessible to just anyone. Of course Tongabezi knows the times to visit the falls where crowds are thin and you feel like you have the entire place to yourself. I was also lucky to visit Livingstone Island, an incredible experience that takes you by boat to an island off-shore sitting just above the falls. Here you can have a delicious multi-course lunch, and sit with your feet in the rapids that end up flowing over the edge and into the abyss that is Victoria Falls. There’s no better way to feel the rush and energy of this natural wonder than through this incredibly private and beautiful experience. The food on the island is both surprising and delicious – each course executed perfectly. With food in mind, the food at Tongabezi is delicious. The chefs on property are skilled and offer international cuisine with local flavors, and the menus change often. Dinners were my favorite with each night offering something new and unique – in beautiful environments. Breakfast, lunch and dinner can be served in-room, in the dining room, on the terrace – and anywhere else you might want to experience your meals. Dinners are often accompanied by local entertainment, including traditional Zambian dancers. I don’t think over my three days at Tongabezi there was one meal that I didn’t enjoy. The meat was particularly fresh and the vegetables are locally sourced, some things even grown on-property. What makes Tongabezi even more special, aside from its physical beauty and integration into nature, is its community efforts. The lodge, founded by Benjamin Parker and William Ruck Keene in 1990, was always a leader in the area for conservation and “firsts” – pioneering responsible tourism in Zambia. Tongabezi spearheads local farming efforts, education and more. Ben’s wife, Vanessa, pushed for a community project that she felt was absolutely essential in terms of giving back to the people and bettering situations of children who might not have particular educational opportunities. With this thought, she founded Tujatane – the Tongabezi Trust School . The school started small with a simple idea and 15 local children in need of education. Today, it has grown to provide free education to over 300 children who live within walking distance of the school and is supported by donations and tourism dollars from guests at Tongabezi. I visited the school and was given a special vocal performance by the children who all sang some of their favorite local and international songs as a welcome. I was blown away. I was toured around the school and shown classrooms and explained programs that help local children take a crucial step towards bettering their situations and furthering their education beyond the school and into university. You can feel the love and energy put into the school, the programs and the kids themselves who are so genuinely happy to be there. What I loved was the integration of the school into the lodge to help show guests just how important responsible tourism is. Tongabezi isn’t just a bubble of luxury where visitors are untouched by the local community, but a multi-layered experience where you leave richer in experience than when you came. While the kids were performing, I couldn’t help but sit in gratitude for the my time at Tongabezi. Not only was I afforded the opportunity to visit one of the most beautiful natural sites in the world, Victoria Falls, but I got to know Zambia on a fundamental level. This, to me, is just as important as the luxury that surrounds this place. For anyone who is looking to visit one of the most impressive sites in the world, Victoria Falls, all while being wrapped in beauty, nature and luxury – with real heart and a community connection; you cannot do better than Tongabezi. You will leave changed on many levels, this I promise.

Rescue Spa , in New York City, is not just a spa but a beauty destination that is capable of handling all your skin’s needs post summer sun. Founded by Danuta Mieloch, the spa has locations in the Flatiron area of Manhattan as well as Philadelphia. And, what makes Rescue Spa so special is their expert curation and choosing of the world’s top effective skincare brands that collide to give you options and the “best of the best” when creating a plan to get your skin in tip top shape for Fall. The spa specializes in my very favorite Biologique Recherche and uses their manual manipulation and micro-current machine to give you the most impressive lifting results. I went for a facial recently to help refresh my severely dehydrated and jet lagged skin. Post-COVID travel has been busy and the dry air in airplanes has taken a toll on my glow. I checked-in for my appointment in the spa’s beautiful waiting room and browsed through some of the new skincare additions from MBR, Environ and Auteur (one of my new favorite German skincare brands). I was quickly taken down to a dim haven of silence where my facial would soon begin. Once inside I was welcomed warmly by my aesthetician, a lovely woman who had worked for years with Biologique Recherche products. Her love of skincare was noticed immediately as I glanced at her firm, supple and glowing skin. She asked me to remove my shirt and slip under the the sheets on my back – and she would return in a moment. As I settled-in, she entered the room and explained she would do a lifting facial on me, using products from Swiss skincare line Valmont as well as Biologique Recherche. The facial began with cleansing, exfoliation, steaming, extractions and a heavy dose of hydration. I was masked no less than three times with added light to help clear the skin and she began quickly massaging and feathering my facial muscles, which stimulates drainage and wakes the muscles from slumber causing them to tighten and contour around the facial bones. This is the trick because you immediately look five years younger – and that’s not an exaggeration. The entire process lasted roughly 90 minutes and was beyond enjoyable. It was relaxing, informative and helped snap my skin back from the brink – preparing it for the rest of summer. Rescue Spa offers various devices that all aid in bettering your skin and they are all hand chosen by Danuta – not for frills. Only real efficacy is tolerated here, which I love. Rescue Spa is the perfect place for a monthly facial and tune-up. I cannot recommend them enough and truly have not been to another spa in New York with this caliber of understanding of how the skin works and responds to certain treatments. Simply put, it’s the best.

One of the most fun and special experiences to take part in on the island of Tenerife is making mojo with a local chef. The completely rounded experience allows you to immerse yourself in the culture by taking part in the creation of one of the region’s specialties. Mojo is a sauce, green or red, that is a staple of the people of Tenerife. The healthy concoction consists of garlic, olive oil, sunflower oil, salt, cilantro (for green mojo), cumin, paprika and peppers. The ingredients are ground by hand with a pestle and mortar, and served as a sauce that accompanies delicious Canarian potatoes. Not only is the sauce healthy and tasty, but easy to make. It can be added to fish, meat, vegetables or pretty much anything else you’d like. A trip to Tenerife isn’t complete without learning how to make mojo. Below is a recipe for this incredible sauce. Red Mojo Recipe Peel and section one whole, small clove of garlic and place in the mortarAdd 1 large table-spoon of cumin powderAdd 1 large tea-spoon of paprikaAdd 1 large tea-spoon of sea-saltAdd one part olive-oil, one part sunflower oil and grind ingredients with pestle into a smooth pasteAdd 1/2 a red pepper (spicy or mild), finely chopped, and grind with pestleAdd another 1/2 a red pepper, finely chopped, and grind with pestleAdd more olive oil to taste to dilute spiciness to your liking Serve the mojo as a dipping sauce for bread, potatoes or as a condiment for fish, meat or rice.

Living in New York City, it takes just one unwelcome incident on the street or inside your building to beg the question of just how secure one’s dwelling really is; and there’s just one company to put your mind at ease – Target Security Systems . With a storefront located on West 27th Street in the Chelsea neighborhood of Manhattan, Target Security Systems are true experts at helping residents, both renters and owners, find a solution that will help them be sure their apartment is secure throughout the day and night. Though violent crime has fallen in New York City over decades, burglaries and theft have risen after the pandemic – criminals taking advantage of citywide chaos to break-in to unwatched spaces. Target Security Systems works often with Honeywell , the leading brand in security and is capable of installing their products to stand guard over your home. Honeywell has a long history of innovation and development, offering devices that are beautiful, non-obtrusive and easy-to-use – with modern capabilities that allow for real ease of use. Target Security Systems can install a simple alarm system, or something more advanced with CCTV, camera set-up, access control systems, virtual doormen and more. We worked with Target Security Systems on a project for The Ultimate New York Apartment to secure a luxury 1,600 square-foot loft in Chelsea – and their team couldn’t have been more professional. Working with Target Security Systems was a breeze. They sent their experts to the space to survey the property and make recommendations based on the layout and entry points. The loft offers three traditional entries, two elevators that open directly into the apartment and a back door. But, it’s not often that criminals enter through traditional means. Target Security Systems identified a fire escape door, four bedroom windows, two bathroom windows and six living room windows, all places where unwanted guests could enter. Target Security Systems identified the perfect products from Honeywell, which included a system that offers a main control panel that is WiFi enabled and can be set remotely. The panel is easy to use and very simple and clean in design and function. Accessories offered and installed were white sensors on windows that detect if the window is opened and sets off the alarm if opened while the alarm is active. More Honeywell components installed included motion detectors and glass break detectors in case someone were to break a window and infiltrate the space. If any of these devices are set-off when the alarm is active, communication is sent immediately to a control center and the client is notified. If the client does not provide the pre-set password correctly, the New York City Police Department is notified and dispatched to the residence. Target Security System’s team was incredibly discreet and professional. On installation day, they set all the equipment up in a matter of an hour and showed us how to use it effectively. They walked us through the control panel and showed us that the alarm could be set for “home” while someone was in the space. Or, it could be set for “away”, which activates the motion detector when no one is actively in the space. To all New York City residents, Target Security Systems is the only company to go with to secure your home. They have price points to satisfy all income levels, and, despite New York City being a relatively safe city, it just takes one time to make you regret not considering your own security. Working with them, you’ll never feel more safe.

Ethiopian Airlines Cloud 9 Business Class is a revelation, and wonderful experience when journeying from the United States to Africa. The airlines, which was one of the very first to reinstate flights to the continent of Africa during the COVID-19 pandemic, has found an important place and growth opportunity through routes to this often underserved continent. I was a guest aboard their flight from Washington, D.C. Dulles International Airport to Addis Ababa and onward to Johannesburg – flying on their Boeing 787 Dreamliner in Cloud 9 Business Class. And, what an experience it was in terms of safety, comfort and overall timing in the most direct route offered to the area. I was thrilled to experience the product and applaud the airline’s vision for bringing passengers to the fastest growing continent on the planet. Ethiopian Airlines has branded itself as “The New Spirit of Africa” and the name is fitting. I boarded without issue at Dulles Airport, presenting my negative COVID-19 PCR test to allow check-in as well as a contact tracing form required by the South African government, my final destination. I found myself delighted in Cloud 9 with a lie-flat seat, seat dividers, modern television and entertainment options, champagne welcome and Ethiopian Airlines sanitization kit at my seat. I took my shoes off, grabbed a glass of champagne and was warmly greeted by the flight crew – who are beautifully dressed in traditional Ethiopian clothing. Soon, I was off for the 13 hour and 45 minute flight to Addis Ababa. Ethiopian Airlines flight direct from Dulles International Airport to Ethiopia, connecting passengers to Northern, Central and Southern Africa easily. They also fly further afield to destinations like The Seychelles, Bangkok and other parts of Asia and South America. I took off easily and the in-flight service commenced. Seats are wide and fully commanded with a touch of a button. Usually, pre-COVID-19, Ethiopian Airlines offers a full traditional Ethiopian meal service (which is amazing) as well as Western options. But, due to the pandemic, it has been changed for the time being to Western only with seals for safety. An amenity kit is offered to help make your flights more enjoyable. My meal was very nice with an appetizer, entree and dessert – all delightful paired with a glass of red wine from Ethiopia’s Rift Valley. I watched one movie for roughly two hours and then put my seat into flat-bed mode and drifted off as the cabin lights were dimmed. As day broke, I woke with about an hour left to go of the flight. The smell of freshly-brewed Ethiopian coffee filled the air and I rose for a light breakfast before landing. We touched down around 7:30 am which left me about 45 minutes to make my connection to Johannesburg. Normally, this might worry some travelers as not being enough time to connect but the transfer couldn’t have gone easier. I literally exited the aircraft and turned left to find my next flight just two gates away. Bolé International Airport in Addis Ababa is very easy to navigate and everything is clearly marked. I ran-in to the Cloud 9 Business Class Lounge by my gate for a quick cup of coffee and then boarded for my six-hour flight to South Africa. The experience on my connection was similar and even more delightful as the seats were brand new and had seemingly never been flown-in. What luck. I watched another film and dosed-off for the remaining four hours before landing in Johannesburg. What I love about Ethiopian Airlines is that it’s easy and just makes sense. There aren’t crazy hoops to jump through, transfers are a breeze and the in-flight experience enjoyable. I truly loved Cloud 9 and would choose it over and over again when flying to Africa. In fact, I can’t wait to experience Ethiopia again as it’s been a while since I last spent time in that beautiful country. Ethiopian Airlines has reinstated routes throughout Africa and the world, and are following all necessary guidelines. From the United States, you can fly seamlessly from New York, Washington D.C. and Chicago – with more cities likely being added in the future.

Chef and Guests, one of Cape Town, South Africa’s top private chef companies has the ability to bring you the best in customized cooking to your rented holiday villa, home or event – wherever it may be. A service that allows its clients to work closely with their chosen chef to bring the best of South African ingredients and international cooking to life – you can’t go wrong inviting them in to your stay in the Mother City. The company worked with us on a dinner prepared at the beautiful Villa Verte in Hout Bay, South Africa – sending Chef Robin Ensil to the house to prepare an unforgettable dinner. Robin arrived fully prepared, reaching-out to me days before to plan a menu that would be special and delicious. Taking everyone’s eating requirements and allergies into consideration, he came up with a fabulous array of food that struck all of us in such a way, that we were left speechless with every bite. Robin did all the shopping ahead of time and was professional from the moment he walked in. With a personality suited for television, he explained to us what he’s be cooking and then got to work. Chef and Guests works hard to pair clients with chefs that match their culinary dreams, and each oe of their chefs has a specialty. Robin prepared a beautiful salmon – pan seared to perfection. He plated everything so beautifully and left no detail overlooked. A mushroom risotto was also on the menu, and I’ve never tasted a risotto with such flavor – not even in Italy. He dressed it with greens and wild mushrooms making it gorgeous to look at. One of our guests is not a fish lover, so he prepared lamb for her, cooked to tender perfection. Poached pears came for dessert and were delivered by Robin himself, in the most kind and gracious way. Throughout the entire evening, not only was Robin talented but enjoyable to have in the kitchen and his talent endless. Chef and Guests outdid themselves in suggesting someone who would make an impact – and that he did. When traveling to Cape Town, whether it be a short or long while, Chef and Guests will not disappoint. They will take your food dreams to the next level and leave you wanting more.

Boschendal , a quintessential wine estate and working farm in the heart of South Africa wine country, is an award-winning property that will steal your heart from the moment you drive on site. A stunning and sprawling plot of land that offers stunning cottages, restaurants, organic gardens, vineyards and more – Boschendal exudes magic and charm without even trying. With a gust of wind through their well-manicured orchards or the sound of carrots being picked from one of the on-site gardens, there isn’t many other places that offer a genuine sense of peace like here. As a recent guest and someone who was lucky enough to take-in the property for three nights, I can attest to its effortlessness and beauty – a place I’d return to again and again. I arrived Boschendal, a mere hour drive from Cape Town, and was met warmly by the check-in staff. With smiles and a speedy check-in, I was off to my cottage – the private Cottage 1685. This cottage is beyond special due to its history as one of the first structures on property built by Sir Herbert baker in prime Cape Dutch architecture. Much of it has been preserved and some modernized for an unforgettable stay. The cottage sleeps 10 guests in dreamy canopy beds that give way to common areas perfectly appointed with delicious furnishings, fireplaces, a dining room, gardens, annex and private pool. Each room of this cottage is exquisitely decorated yet comfortable, many of the pieces being of historical nature. There is even a kitchen that is set-up for private dinners, a chef, or anything else one can imagine. The cottage comes with a butler who is there to coordinate breakfast, lunch and dinner, assist with cocktail hour or fires when evening temperatures dip down. Maxwell is his name and he is a true gem – a kind and positive spirit who made my stay here really something to remember. What I love about Boschendal is that you can make it what you wish. The property is large and there is an array of accommodation options to choose from. You can stay at the impressive Mountain Villa, which can sleep 12 guests, or opt for a cozier orchard cottage or trout cottage. You feel like you have the entire place to yourself. Boschendal spares no expense when it comes to guest comfort. Full size bathroom amenities, towels refreshed morning and night and a lovely turn down service is offered. You can have you meals in the restaurants, such as breakfast at The Werf, or in the comfort of your own cottage. Boschendal can arrange garden tours, horseback riding, wine tastings and more. Not only do they offer their own wine, which is delicious in its many varieties, but can send you out to visit the countless nearby vineyards. During the day, if you choose to lounge around the property, they will even pack boxed picnics that are served in the most elegant way – wooden boxes stuffed with farm-to-table dishes, salads, pastas, sandwiches, cheese, vegetables and more. I spent my days exploring but was sure to spend at least one day by the pool – which was pure heaven. Boschendal offers an impressive array of dining options – and they believe in sustainable eating. Most of what you eat here is grown right on property. You can eat at The Deli for something light, have a stunning breakfast or lunch at The Werf, indulge at The Cellar Door or grab items for your cottage at The Farm Shop and Butchery. Each restaurant offers something different. The Werf is a beautiful spot with indoor and outdoor options, facing the stunning gardens. You can literally dine on food sourced right outside these doors and watch gardeners planting and picking that night’s dinner. This is really an incredible thing. Boschendal’s food offerings are a big part of the experience here. It’s not just food, it’s the soul of this place and quite literally the land on which your staying. Their meat, seafood and more are all top grade. I had many filets of South African Kingklip, my favorite white fish, caught in the waters just an hour away. Over three days at Boschendal I found myself becoming more and more tranquil. This wasn’t a set intention when I arrived, it just happened. I began to sink into the place, listen to the nature around me and reflect with the red sun that always seemed to dance perfectly on the mountain faces as it set below the horizon each night. I have stayed at many hotels in the area, but this one was different. I truly felt at home and was genuinely sad to leave. It’s a place that, once experienced, can’t be shaken from your head or heart. I can’t wait to return.