In this issue, we meet serial entrepreneur Sir Richard Branson for the opening of his new boutique hotel “Son Bunyola” in Majorca. In an interview about dreams, pioneering spirit and the thirst for adventure, we learn the story behind his entrepreneurial spirit and “never-give-up” mentality. Following is a section exploring the work of legendary photographer Slim Aarons, who captured the glamorous lives of the upper class in the Mediterranean and the Caribbean, followed by a look inside the colorful Manhattan townhouse of John Demsey, former Group President of Estée Lauder, who was forced to start over in his mid-60s. Finally, discover the luxury resort known as the “Bawah Reserve” located in Indonesia, rewriting the definition of peace via seclusion.

Meeting Mr. Yes!

In the heart of Mallorca, a new chapter unfolds in the story of Sir Richard Branson, the intrepid founder of the Virgin Group and a connoisseur of adventure. With the unveiling of “Son Bunyola,” his latest venture, Branson beckons us into an extraordinary world where the narrative is as captivating as the landscape.

“Son Bunyola” stands as a beacon of luxury within the Tramuntana mountains, sprawling across a 520-hectare estate adorned with more than15,000 olive trees. Mallorca's essence is captured in every detail, from the meticulously selected décor to the furniture that echoes the island's soul, ensuring that the spirit of the Balearics pulsates through the veins of this majestic retreat. At its heart lies a 28-meter pool, born from ruins, symbolizing rebirth and the enduring allure of transformation.

Yet, it is Branson’s personal journey that imbues “Son Bunyola” with its unique allure. His journey, initially fueled by the pursuit of a lost love, ultimately led him to a different kind of passion—a love affair with Mallorca itself. While fate may not have granted him the romantic outcome he once sought, it gave him a profound appreciation for the island, its beauty, and its capacity to inspire.

Beyond the enchanting landscapes and luxurious amenities, “Son Bunyola” is a testament to Branson's life lessons—family, dedication, and the importance of patience. It embodies his belief that “The brave may not live forever, but the cautious do not live at all.”

 

King of Mustique

 

In this feature, the man behind the famous celebrity-studded getaway in the Caribbean opens up about the origins of the world-renowned Basil’s Bar. Born and raised on the neighboring island of St. Vincent, Basil Charles relocated to Mustique in 1971. With no roads, no electricity, and no places to go, it took quite some time before the lifestyle of the island began to improve. Working at the only hotel on the island, known as the Cotton House, Basil Charles took full reign over the hotel’s beach bar, which would soon become known as the infamous “Basil’s Bar”.

 

Basil’s Bar became the epitome of Caribbean retreats, magnetizing A-list celebrities such as Mick Jagger, Kate Moss, and members of the royal household. It transformed into the quintessential location where the glitterati could moor their yachts, unwind, and savor the bar’s celebrated libations. Yet, Basil’s Bar is not characterized for attracting the affluent, famous, and exclusive; but rather for its focus on inclusivity. Basil cultivated a space where locals and tourists could coalesce, dance, and celebrate in unison, dismantling societal divides and nurturing a singular communal bond.

The essence of Basil’s Bar lies not just in its illustrious guest list or its exotic beverages, but in the foundational principles of its creator: Basil Charles recognized that the true enchantment of his venture was its capacity to enrich lives by bringing individuals together.

Slim Aarons - Eyelands

In the era that followed World War II, a period where the world was rediscovering its vibrancy and zest for life, Slim Aarons positioned himself as the chronicler of the jet-setters, socialites, and those born into the lap of luxury. Through the five decades he spent behind the lens, Aarons transformed places like Mustique, Mykonos, and Capri, their fame and desirability magnified by his evocative imagery. "photographing attractive people doing attractive things in attractive places," Aarons’ ethos, "photographing attractive people doing attractive things in attractive places," perfectly distills the essence of his illustrious career. Transitioning from the stark realities of war photography to the pursuit of beauty, Aarons spotlighted the aspirational aspects of the post-war period. His prestigious contributions to magazines like Life, Town & Country, and Holiday unveiled the lavish lifestyles of the rich and famous, from Hollywood’s celebrities to European nobility.

Today, Slim Aarons' legacy stands as a tribute to a bygone lifestyle defined by its unforced elegance and joy of existence. Aarons was more than a spectator; he was an architect of the mythos of mid-century glamor, a maestro whose symphony of images continue to inspire today.

For all of these articles and more, you can view the full issue here. Enjoy your read.