My Yacht Group’s ‘legendary’ party

Photo: My Yacht® Group
Photo: My Yacht® Group

The buzz around town during the now-concluded Monaco Yacht Show was centered on My Yacht Group and its hotly anticipated reception in partnership with Bvlgari aboard the Class I Icebreaker, M/Y Legend.

The evening did not disappoint. A curated guest list of international and local superyacht owners and users, plus select Monaco residents, renowned industrialists, Olympians, F1 drivers, artists, and more mingled aboard while several production elements elevated the party above the usual MYS broker-laden affair.

Twelve models, brought in especially from Milan, and bedecked in stunning high jewellery pieces and watches valued in excess of €25 million, danced a “Carnivale” style fashion show through the yacht, led by strolling band Odd Socks International, with a finale on the helideck, surrounded by guests.

In additional to Bvlgari, longtime partner Vontobel joined once again with Board executives and top clients, as well as the Bermuda Business Development Agency with a government delegation and VIP guests in attendance, plus the Commodore and Board members of the Gustavia Yacht Club.

Vast amounts of Perrier-Jouet Belle Epoque Rosé, Titomirov Vodka (alkaline vodka), plus double magnums of 3 types of Chateau d’Escians rosé (Whispering Angel, Les Clans, Garrus), plus a Perlita Caviar station, kept guests in a festive mood.

Presented at the show by IYC, the SOLAS compliant 78m, 3,000 tonne M/Y Legend attracted an inordinate amount of attention thanks to its unique layout and capabilities.  Winner of the “Best Rebuilt Yacht” at the 2017 World Superyacht Awards, it sleeps 26 guests in 13 cabins including an owner’s suite on a private deck, a 16-person waterfall-fed Jacuzzi, plus a three-man submarine, a 14-seater cinema, Balinese spa, numerous water toys, and helideck.

Raising both awareness and funds, a portion of proceeds from the evening benefitted MYG’s longtime charitable partner, Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation.

Learn more here about the Foundation’s works dedicated to the preservation of the environment and the promotion of sustainable development.

The next three weekends see My Yacht® Group produce its sophisticated superyacht events in San Francisco for Fleet Week, in Los Angeles, and in Austin, with its Monaco-style ‘pop-up’ nightclub, at the USA F1™ weekend.

Article first published October 1, 2017.


READ MORESt Bart’s Superyacht Valentine with My Yacht Group, Bvlgari

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Pink Ribbon lights up Monaco

Hotel Metropole. Photo: Monaco Life
Hotel Metropole. Photo: Monaco Life

On Wednesday at the Hotel Metropole Monte Carlo, Pink Ribbon Monaco held a cocktail and a short presentation to recount last year’s initiatives, progress made at the CHPG, and news regarding recent developments in breast cancer treatment, screening and prevention at the hospital, at the start of Breast Cancer Awareness Month in Monaco.

As the 50 guests left the venue, the Prince’s Palace of Monaco, the National Council building, the Monte Carlo Casino, the Yacht Club and the Hotel Metropole Monte Carlo were illuminated in pink lights, in a gesture of support to victims of breast cancer and to promote awareness of the disease.

Palais Princier. Photo: Monaco Life
Palais Princier. Photo: Monaco Life

For the seventh consecutive year, October 4 marks the beginning of breast cancer awareness month in the Principality, and across the world, joining forces with over 200 cities and 40 countries.

In continuation of the event and Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Hotel Metropole will extend its support of Pink Ribbon Monaco throughout October with an ephemeral atmosphere – pink decorations, floral arrangements, menu items, and illuminations – spread throughout the establishment.

Natasha Frost, Carine Noaro and Creina Nicholls run Pink Ribbon Monaco, to support cancer prevention through healthy lifestyles, creating awareness of the disease, and promoting early detection through various screening methods.

As Ms Frost commented to the attendees, which included Didier Gamerdinger, Minister of Health and Social Affairs, “We salute those battling the disease. We are here to share our love and as a team we are a strong, united entity.”

She concluded by saying, “When you step outside tonight as you leave the event, remember that pink is the colour of strength, courage and hope.”

Funds collected will go to the Princess Grace Hospital Screening Centre and help with future campaigns. Pink Ribbon Monaco works alongside the association Ecoute Cancer Réconfort (ECR), founded in 1992, under the Honorary Presidency of HSH Princess Stéphanie.

ECR members and volunteers ensure cancer sufferers and their families are “able to find the support – both psychological and financial – they need”. The also run a wellness centre, organise charity events and arrange hospital visits.

Monaco’s Princess Grace Hospital has one of the best digital mammography sensors in the world, a state-of-the-art technology that optimises early detection of breast cancer, as well as reducing the amount of radiation necessary for diagnosis.


READ MOREMonaco gets behind annual Pink Ribbon Walk Sunday

pinkribbon

Cut the crap Monaco!

maddywell, monte carlo, beach, woman

I absolutely love food and, for me, travelling provides the opportunity to explore new flavours, even if I tend to eat a little more than what I need.

When I was younger I used to try and make up for my summer indulgences by going on a fall fitness craze. Over time, I realised that this is only a short-term fix.

80% of the way we look and feel is down to our diet and lifestyle.
20% is exercise.

This is hard to hear, especially if you’re training your butt off and believe me, it’s not the best motto for my business as a Pilates teacher … but it’s true.

The idea that you’ll “just burn it off at the gym” might be a post-summer quick fix but sooner or later you’ll have to address the reasons why your body is holding onto unwanted weight. And that starts with reviewing your diet and your lifestyle.

What you eat most of the time is more important than what you eat some of the time.

Overindulging a little during the summer – that extra glass (or two!) of rosé – is perfectly normal, as long as you get back to your routine when you return home.

This is difficult because our bodies keep nudging us for any of the bad habits we might have picked up on holiday. Sugar is addictive as is alcohol (also sugar) so as long as we keep consuming them, our bodies will keep asking for them.

This is why my back-to-reality strategy is always to cut out the crap completely by going on a detox. This is the only way to get rid of all the toxins that have hijacked my taste buds and make me crave sugar, and to kickstart my hankering for healthy food again.

And this is why I want to share what a good detox should look like if you want to clean out your system, kick your cravings in the teeth and fire up your metabolism so it starts burning fat again.

Detox breakfast Blueberry & banana chia seed pudding
Detox breakfast Blueberry & banana chia seed pudding

Stocking up for a detox
The good news is that unlike most detoxes, the ones I recommend don’t involve starving yourself or relying on juices, powder or pills. Mine involve eating REAL FOODS that have been chosen specifically for their antioxidant power, their ability to reduce inflammation, boost your energy levels and start burning fat.

My favorite place to buy organic produce is at the Condamine market, specifically the few small producers under the arcades. Their fruits and vegetables have noticeably more flavour than anything you’ll find in the supermarket.

Anything I can’t find at the market, I duck down to the organic supermarket. Solis Bio (7 & 9 rue Terrazzani) has a good range of produce (especially mid-morning), and this is also where I buy my coconut oil, nuts, seeds and other fun things like Tempeh and the occasional Kombucha.

I visited the new To Be organic shop at 31 ave Princesse Grace, but more on that next time.

Maddywell’s Detox Tips

Eliminate processed foods.
Despite their shiny labels and smart marketing messages, most processed foods have been stripped of their nutrients and the added preservatives, colourings and artificial flavourings will only create a “toxic hunger” leaving you craving for more. Removing these from your diet completely is an essential step in helping your body detoxify and start burning fat.

Eat more vegetables: It’s not sexy but it works. 
Vegetables are full of the fiber, vitamins and nutrients that our bodies were designed to digest, unlike multivitamins capsules. Eat a rainbow of veggies, preferably organic and in season – currently courgettes, aubergines, artichokes, spinach and celery.

Detox lunch grilled aubergine miso salad with quinoa
Detox lunch grilled aubergine miso salad with quinoa

Give up inflammatory foods – even temporarily.
We’ve all got that one friend who has stopped eating gluten or dairy and feels amazing. I’m one of them and you could be too. Gluten and dairy are the most likely to cause digestive issues and to mess with your hunger hormones. By removing them from your diet for 10 days, you’ll notice a clear difference in how you feel, how hungry you are and increase your body’s ability to burn fat. After 10 days, you can decide for yourself if they’re best to avoid. It’s worth a try, I promise.

Quit sugar.
Sugar is the silent killer of our times and it’s considered to be more addictive than heroin, although most of us don’t realise we’re hooked on the stuff. Sugar triggers a reaction in our brain’s “pleasure centre”, causing a surge in our blood sugar levels and the release of insulin. Insulin is your “fat storage” hormone so it’s worth keeping this little guy in check. As mentioned above, there is no better way to kick your sugar cravings in the teeth than to give it up completely.

Eat more fat!
For years we were told that eating fat makes us fat. Not true. Eating fat is essential for our health and helps with nutrient absorption, keeping us satiated and burning fat. Include healthy fats at every meal in the form of nuts, coconut oil, seeds, avocados or olive oil, for example.

Up your water intake.
It may seem like a no-brainer but most of us aren’t getting enough water and this can affect your hunger levels, as well as your body’s ability to burn fat. The amount you need will vary according to your size, the amount of exercise you do and the climate where you live but as a general rule 1.5 litres of water is an absolute minimum for an adult. In summer, I tend to drink over 2 litres and I’m a small frame but I do exercise quite a bit.

Shut eye.
Sleep and relaxation are the new exercise. No, I promise. More and more studies are pointing towards the fact that stress makes us fat because it releases cortisol and other stress hormones, which typically result in inflammation and fat storage. You can improve the quality of your sleep by setting a “no screen” time a couple of hours before you go to bed. Read a book instead.

Article first published September 12, 2017.Maddy is the Founder of Nutrition For Naughty People, aimed at helping individuals find a better balance between the things that keep them healthy and the things that make them happy! Any questions?
mk@nutritionfornaughtypeople.com.
 (Feature image: @viktoriakhatib)


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A Monaco Life Yacht Show Series 2017: Sergei Dobroserdov

Sergei Dobroserdov, Founder & CEO of Monaco-based Dynamiq
Sergei Dobroserdov, Founder & CEO of Monaco-based Dynamiq

Q&A with Sergei Dobroserdov, Founder & CEO of Monaco-based Dynamiq

ML: Dynamiq is a Monegasque superyacht builder. Tell us about the company.
SD: Dynamiq is a Monaco-based builder of superyachts with a unique functionality. As an experienced yachtbroker and designer, I started the brand in 2011, and assembled a “dream team” of world thinkers, designers and naval architects to design and fine-tune a new concept in yachting.

Dynamiq is also the first company in the superyacht industry to introduce an Online Configurator, allowing our yachts to be easily and transparently customised down to the last detail. Our yachts are built in a modern facility in Viareggio on Italy’s Tuscan coast under strict supervision and meticulous quality control.

ML: What are Dynamiq’s GTT models?
SD: Using leading-edge technology and elaborate hydrodynamic research, Dynamiq has created a family of all-aluminium yachts that combine the 20-knot-plus maximum speeds of sport cruisers with the comfort and 3,000-mile range of displacement vessels. We call this new yacht category Gran Turismo Transatlantic, or GTT for short. Each Dynamiq can be customised with a wealth of luxurious and functional options, right down to the last detail, via our pioneering Online Configurator. Each custom feature shows exact prices and delivery dates that are updated in real time.

We have redefined what customer service in yacht buying and building is all about.

Log in to your Premium account to read the full interview.

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ML: How have superyachts evolved and what is the “next generation for intelligent buyers”?
SD: Dynamiq is a Monaco superyacht builder meeting the needs of intelligent buyers for a next-generation yacht: top class, modern yachts that are efficient, chic, easy-to-order and effortless to customise. I believe Dynamiq offers yacht owners much more choice. Our versatile yachts are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s relaxing family cruising or vibrant deck parties. They are also fast with ocean-going range, easy to order and customise with top world brands. At Dynamiq we offer a unique lifestyle experience by bringing the comfort, quality and technology standards of 60m superyachts to the 25–50m segment.”

Pierre Casiraghi, Vice-President of the Yacht Club de Monaco, with Bernard d’Alessandri, YCM Secretary General, at Dynamiq's Viareggio shipyard
Pierre Casiraghi, Vice-President of the Yacht Club de Monaco, with Bernard d’Alessandri, YCM Secretary General, at Dynamiq’s Viareggio shipyard

ML: Tell us some details about the Viareggio shipyard. Why this location?
SD: Our modern and high-tech shipyard in Viareggio, Italy, is fitted out for building the full range of Dynamiq superyachts up to 50m in length with various power-train options, including cutting-edge hybrid technology.

The Dynamiq production facility offers the highest standards of working environment and quality control. It is located just 100m from the waterfront making launching, sea trials and delivery easy, safe and cost effective.

ML: Yacht building is a competitive business. What sets Dynamiq apart from other yacht builders?
SD: When we talk about comfort and top service, the ideal for this size of yacht is six guests in three cabins served by a 1:1 ratio of six crew, for genuinely exclusive onboard service. We also designed the interior ceiling heights to more than 2.15 metres (7 feet), even in the lower deck cabins: that’s real luxury on a 35-metre yacht.

In fact, Dynamiq yachts bring the comfort and luxury of much larger superyachts to a smaller segment of the market. They are aimed at a discerning clientele that appreciates the builder’s rational approach to creating more manageable yachts.

Our target clients might include those who are looking to downsize from larger 50- or 60-metre yachts. They are already accustomed to the highest standards, but are ready to leave behind the hassle and huge costs of owning large vessels so they can enjoy the fun side of yacht ownership. The Dynamiq GTT 115 is the perfect realisation of utmost comfort and a sporty lifestyle in a practical and relatively compact package.

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ML: Dynamiq sponsors team Malizia, led by Pierre Casiraghi. What is the initiative and how did it happen?
SD: Dynamiq enjoys close, long-term relations with one of the most renowned yacht clubs in the world: the Monaco Yacht Club.

Dynamiq is a proud Sporting partner of Monaco Yacht Club and sponsors the foiling GC32 Malizia team led by skipper Pierre Casiraghi, a member of the Monegasque Royal family. The main aim of our sponsorship programme is to encourage a new generation of competitive sailors under the Club’s umbrella and Monaco’s position as a centre of excellence for top-level sailing competitions. This initiative fits well with Dynamiq’s global sailing activities.

Since June 2017, Monaco Yacht Club has hosted the Dynamiq showroom, giving clients a uniquely exclusive service in the heart of Monaco’s yachting hub. Moreover, Pierre Casiraghi and Bernard d’Alessandri, Secretary General of the Yacht Club de Monaco, attended the keel laying ceremony for GTT 115 in Viareggio earlier this year.

ML: How will you be involved at the Monaco Yacht Show?
SD: The Monaco Yacht Show is the most important yacht show in the world so for our brand it’s important to be presented here to show what we really can do, the level of our quality and technologies. This year we will have the new model GTT 115 right in front of the Monaco Yacht Club and Jetsetter in the bay of Monaco.

ML: How do you see Monaco and its place in the yachting world?
SD: Monaco plays a central role in the world of superyachts for two reasons. First of all, it’s one of the most picturesque yachting destinations with lots of things to discover at sea and onshore. Second, Monaco sets the highest standards for yacht design, technologies and service on board. The Monaco Yacht Club is definitely the largest and most beautiful Yacht Club in the world and Dynamiq is proud to be it’s official partner and have their office there.

Article first published September 26, 2017


READ ALSO: A Monaco Life Yacht Show Series 2017: Chris Cecil Wright

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All in a weekend’s work, Caudwell Children raises nearly €160,000 for charity

Caudwell Children Charity Gala. Photo: Louis Pisano
Caudwell Children Charity Gala. Photo: Louis Pisano

If there’s one thing Monaco does exceptionally well it’s throwing parties for a great cause and getting its guests writing multiple zeros on checks. This particular evening, we were celebrating the end of the Tuscany to Monaco cycle challenge – a 200 mile cycle ride from Tuscany, Italy to Monaco to raise funds for Caudwell Children, a national charity founded by John Caudwell, that provides practical and emotional support to disabled children and their families.

Organized by John’s partner – former Lithuanian Olympic cyclist Modesta Vzesniauskaite – a team of cyclists, including Formula One champion Mika Hakkinen, rode for three days through the rolling countryside of Tuscany, the undulating roads of Rapallo in Liguria, and against strong coastal winds towards Monaco.

On the evening of September 24, just hours after the completion of the cycle challenge, we gathered on the terraces of the Monte Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort to celebrate the achievements of the cyclists. Against the backdrop of a blazing pink sunset, guests sipped champagne, or one of the nights’ custom Johnny Walker cocktails by Bespoke Cocktails & Spirits. Over on the step and repeat Miss Universe Monaco 2017 Natalia Shapovalova posed for the cameras, her crown catching the last rays of the sun.

President of the Arctic Club, Sergey Egorov, made the rounds with his wife gladly translating from Russian to English when needed. However, I had my eye out especially for two faces, one of them being the night’s entertainment – the pop singer/socialite Tallia Storm. I’m not going to lie, I had her new song on repeat a good portion of the day. During our pre-dinner chat we bonded over a mutual love of Beyoncé and she shared her struggles and strategies when it comes to her social media presence and what it was like being discovered by Elton John at just age 13.

Just when I thought the other was going to be a no show, as we headed into dinner, Amanda Cronin glided in, in an incredible Alessandra Rich gown. Grabbing my arm to steady herself on her Aruna Seth heels, she gave me the rundown on her outfit. Btw her Stephen Webster jewels are stunning in real life. Instagram does not do them justice.

As they often are, the dinner was a long and arduous affair of sea bass and champagne punctuated by a fashion show of Nordic Angels collection by Marketta Hakkinen a 11 year old child prodigy from Italy that belted out Celine Dion ballads and had me shook, Tallia Storm who did her best to get guests on their feet but alas the majority seemed content to quietly observe, probably because they had their mind on other things like bidding on Damien Hirst artworks, 70 piece orchestras and John Caudwell’s property in Whistler for a ski vacation.

Sensing a dip in the energy, Modesta, in an ensemble channeling black swan got on the dance floor with her friends, which in turn encouraged others thus kickstarting the party. Amanda Cronin snapped selfie videos for Instagram with her gal pals as we danced the night away to Donna Summer tunes. Meanwhile, John Caudwell continued to hold court at his table as well wishers and friends came over to chat. He divulged to me the secret of his red carpet style. He designs all his suits himself. This particular one featuring diamond buttons and blood red brocade. As the last bids were placed and the music died down we moved into the Blue Gin Bar for the after party. Perhaps in anticipation of a busy week ahead with the yacht show, or just the fact that it was a Sunday night, or maybe because spending money is exhausting, most guests headed home, leaving only about 20 revelers to indulge in Johnny Walker Black label and drunken dance offs.

Turning down a third AFTER after party offer we called it a night, but not before inquiring about how much they think they raised. The next day reps for Caudwell Children confirmed they had raised nearly €160,000, and all in a weekend’s work.

Instagram sensation and style blogger Louis Pisano writes SuperficialLivingDiary.com. Article first published October 2, 2017. 


READ MOREPrincess Charlene shows off her fashion versatility at Milan Fashion Week

Princess Charlene in Milan. Photo; flynet plash news with permission.
Princess Charlene in Milan. Photo; flynet plash news with permission.

Adriano Ribolzi decorated by French Ambassador to Monaco

Adriano Ribolzi, Prince Albert, Nicoletta Ribolzi, and Marine de Carné-Trécesson, Ambassador of France to Monaco. Photo: J Turlin
Adriano Ribolzi, Prince Albert, Nicoletta Ribolzi, and Marine de Carné-Trécesson, Ambassador of France to Monaco. Photo: F Terlin

Monaco’s pre-eminent gallerist, Adriano Ribolzi, has been awarded one of France’s top honours, the Chevalier of the Order of Arts and Letters.

The decoration, from the French Ministry of Culture and Communication, was handed to Mr Ribolzi by Her Excellency Marine de Carne-Trécesson, Ambassador of France to Monaco, at a small gathering at the Adriano Ribolzi Gallery on September 28.

Marine de Carné-Trécesson, Ambassador of France to Monaco, with Adriano Ribolzi. Photo: F Terlin
Marine de Carné-Trécesson, Ambassador of France to Monaco, with Adriano Ribolzi. Photo: F Terlin

About sixty guests came to share with Mr Ribolzi and his family this important moment in his professional life and a recognition of his unique contribution to the understanding and appreciation of art.

A Swiss native, Adriano Ribolzi was the first foreign antique dealer to settle in the Principality, opening his gallery in 1974.

Prince Albert honoured the occasion with his presence, and personally congratulated Mr Ribolzi, adding even more honour and emotion to this special moment.


READ ALSOPrincess Caroline visits Galerie Ribolzi for GemlucArt 2016 opening

GamlucArt16, Princess Caroline, Corinne Chauvet, Palais Princier
Princess Caroline with Corinne Chauvet Photo: Axel Bastello/Palais Princier