Tired of going for the same look every summer? Well how about you try something a little different this season. I decided to make a summer resolution, to be bold and wear outfits I have never worn before. Now, some people are afraid to stand out, but me, I go all out!! 

To achieve a great summer outfit, start with a great summer color. Bright colors are always in! You can try adding colors in your outfit by wearing a zebra strip skirt with a hot pink top and black flats. Or how about rocking a red bubblegum pant with a zebra strip blouse, add black flats or red heels and its a great look. Maybe you love blue, try pairing a blue top with white jeans and red heels. The trick is always adding a pop of color to bring out your look no matter what it is. You might be wearing all white and decided that you look too bare, I would think so too, but do not panic! All you have to do is pair it with red heels and accessories and you are good to go!!

How about makeup this season? What is the style you choose for your day, evening, and special occasion looks? Well, let me throw an idea to you; for a day look, keep it simple. You do not want to be seen early in the morning with extreme makeup. I mean, people just woke up; they do not want to think they are still dreaming and having a nightmare! So please keep it sweet, subtle and simple. For your evening look, try using the smoky eye effect. This is always cute and classy and it looks great on all skin types. For your special occasion look, use more neutral colors with whatever you might be wearing. Neutral colors are perfect for bringing out your skin color, especially really pale skin tones. 

What about the perfect heels? If you are like me, your closet is probably filled with 3 inch heels. It is a great accessory to finish your outfit off with. But remember, flats are also going to be huge this summer. Everywhere you look, celebs are kicking of their heels and strapping into stylish flats. You might not care and still top off with heels, but for fashion trend lovers, like me, who always want to stay on top, flats are definitely cute and popular this summer. Nevertheless, do not be afraid to wear your heart loving heels as well; and don't forget the three power S’s for day time makeup; sweet, subtle and simple! 

My name is Esther Cooper, I'm a fashion afi·cio·na·do, it's my passion, it's my life. I am so blessed to have what God has put in my life, and will be forever grateful. In my column, "Esther's Fashion," I keep you style icons updated on the best trends from around the globe.

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In the world of luxury, something that goes hand in hand with travel is food. One thing that the Curator and I can attest to is that broadening the palate and dining experiences are adventures in their own right. This column will focus on food, beverages, liquor and everything dining, as there is no cheaper way to explore the world then through a gustatory voyage.

Naturally, the best way to begin this column is through the first meal of the day, breakfast. If you are anything like myself, rarely do you take the time out to prepare a proper breakfast. Usually anything that can I can pop in the microwave or toaster will work for me, and if I can take it on the go, even better. This search for a hearty and mobile breakfast lead me to the breakfast sandwich.

This breakfast sandwich, is a freshly baked butter croissant that encrusts egg whites with a smokey andouille chicken sausage, and topped off with crisp baby spinach. Trust me this is nothing like your fast food croissandwich! 

I uncased the chicken sausage and sautéed it in small non-stick frying pan until browned. No need to add any oil, the sausage will provide its own. 

Set the sausage aside, and use the remaining oils to fry the egg white, which was lightly seasoned with sea salt and black pepper.

Once the egg white is done, just simply cut the croissant in half with a serrated knife, assemble the sandwich, and le voila! You've just made a healthier, tastier sandwich in less time than it takes to wait on a fast food line during the morning rush hour.

Bon Appetit! 

Tonya Robinson is a 24 year old food enthusiast. While her professional passions draws her to law and finance her love for food and dining has become her creative outlet. Follow her along as she encounters new culinary adventures and discusses her current obsessions. 


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This feature, fresh off the press from the 55th Venice Biennale, is a gem for any lover of international art. The Biennale is the 'Art World's Olympics.' The images and information were sent directly to me just yesterday by FITZ & CO, who represent Tavares Strachan; immediately I had to share! The pavilion looks breathtakingly fascinating, the quality is of such strong international standard, that I'm most certain it will captivate attendees, and positively promote the 700 islands & cays that make up, The Bahamas. This is the island nation's 40th year of independence, and I believe the showing at the Biennale is a signal foretelling of even greater years ahead. Earlier this month Tavares was featured on Traveller's Bazaar, including a prelude to his Venice showing. Now see here FIRST, images of The Bahamas Pavilion. 

Tavares Strachan (b. 1979, Nassau, Bahamas; lives in New York City) received a BFA from the Rhode Island School of Design in 2003 and an MFA from Yale University in 2006. Strachan may be best known for his internationally celebrated 2006 piece titled The Distance Between What We Have and What We Want, consisting of a 4.5-ton block of ice harvested in a river near Mount McKinley, Alaska. The ice was then sent via Federal Express to a primary school in The Bahamas, where solar power was used to keep it frozen.

Tavares Strachan's most recent exhibition project, Polar Eclipse, is currently being presented in the inaugural pavilion of The Bahamas at the 55th International Venice Biennale in 2013. Conceived as both a site-specific installation and a collection of individual works, including video, sculpture, and collage, the exhibition investigates themes of heroic exploration, cultural and physical displacement, oral history, and the evolution of historic narratives.

Strachan's recent trip to the North Pole is the subject of a 14-channel video installation, which places the viewer at the center of Strachan's reenactment of a historic journey: the 1909 polar expedition of Robert Peary and Matthew Alexander Henson.

40 Days and 40 Nights (2013) takes up the lingering Biennale model of nationally-defined pavilions, creating a culturally hybrid space at the Arsenale in the fortieth year of Bahamian independence. Strachan arranged for forty schoolchildren in Nassau to learn a song from a rapidly vanishing Inupiaq folk tradition called ayaya, then brought them to Venice to perform it. Virtually untranslatable, the song operates outside the much-touted “internationalism” of the global art world. “I’m fascinated by the idea of being in two or more places at once, and exploring difference that way,” says Strachan. “The way that the Venice Biennale, historically and now, deploys the idea of “difference” as cultural tourism is an interesting problem to work with.” 

Here and Now (2013), a group of neon sculptures which read I Belong Here, You Belong Here, We Belong Here, opens the exhibition, further addressing themes of place and identification. Other works installed within the pavilion--a sculpture of a levitating Inuit figure, large-scale collages of Arctic wildlife--play specific roles in Strachan's larger project of exploring nuanced, often-invisible shifts in cultures, physical environments, and recounted histories over both space and time, in the wake of globalization and narratives of progress. Having lived and worked in the Bahamas for much of his life, these issues are reflective of Strachan’s biography and emigrant experience.

Many of Strachan's works investigate the ability of life to acclimatize to radically inhospitable environments. His research has extended to hands-on training at the Yuri Gagarin Russian State Science Research Cosmonaut Training Center in Star City, Russia, as well as a residency at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where he worked with some of this institution’s cutting- edge scientists. Strachan’s scientific explorations are tied to his establishment of the nascent Bahamas Aerospace and Sea Exploration Center (BASEC) in his native Nassau. In the course of working with BASEC, Strachan has made several rockets wholly from Bahamian natural resources (glass from beach sand, and fuel from sugarcane) and launched them 15 to 20 miles into the earth’s stratosphere, before collecting and presenting their fallen remnants as sculptural relics.

The Bahamas Pavilion is curated by Jean Crutchfield and Robert Hobbs, with deputy curator Stamatina Gregory. Major support is granted by Nalini Bethel of The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism. Produced by Christopher Hoover, Michael Hall, and Christophe Thompson, and Venice producer Fiona Biggiero. 

My passion is to inspire others to live their best life now, to never settle for mediocrity - Quinn Russell, Curator of TravellersBazaar.com - email: thetravelbazaar@yahoo.com

Keep up with Quinn via: 
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Influenced by nature, in particular from the 'weaver bird', which gets its name because of its elaborately woven nest - the design of 'the biodiversity nest' by blueforest features an elevated walkway and platform, which will form part of the new rainforest canopy walkway at the eden project, located in Cornwall, England. 

Developed in collaboration with jerry tate architects, the treehouse will provide a high-level route and education experience within the humid tropics biome. Constructed out of wooden and steel framed decks, the 'biodiversity nest' will be situated in the middle of the rainforest canopy with two bridges spanning 16 meters, with a timber enclosure providing additional shading. concentrating on biodiversity in the natural rainforest, the conception will be used as an education space.

Due to be completed in separate phases over the next three years (with the first phase due for launch to the public in june 2013), future components of the project will include elements such as a steampunk influenced 'weather station', a 'research station' and a 'waterfall cave' which will be completed as funding becomes available. Amazing additions to an already amazing project. 

source: designboom.com 

When you think Park Hyatt, what comes to mind? Do you think pristine desert island beaches with silhouettes of futuristic skylines in the distant, interiors so marvelous any connoisseur of fine living would approve, and services so appealing you never want to leave? If this happens to cross your mind, you more than lively have stayed at the Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Villas located on Saadiyat island, Abu Dhabi. It is the definitive 'Park Hyatt Experience.' I had the pleasure of staying for three nights in this relatively new property, and have a lot to say about my experience. 

The exclusive Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Villas, which opened its doors on November 1st, 2011, is located on Saadiyat island, Abu Dhabi, UAE. It is fronted by the Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, an 18-hole golf course designed by golfing legend Gary Player. Behind the hotel lies the jewel of Saadiyat Island, a nine-kilometer stretch of pristine enviromentally-protected beach. Saadiyat Island is poised to be the cultural capital of the Middle East with the Zayed National Museum by Lord Norman Foster, Louvre Abu Dhabi by Jean Nouvel, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi by Frank Gehry, and the Performing Arts Centre by Zaha Hadid all under construction. Combined with a new shopping destination u/c 'The Distric,' backed by LVMH, Saadiyat is the future of Abu Dhabi. The Park Hyatt carters to this distinctive clientele whether on leisure or business travel. The hotel feels as if you're in a world all unto itself, yet it is so close to all the outstanding amenities of Abu Dhabi and its city-centre. The Abu Dhabi International Airport is only 25 km away and the city-centre is 15km.

Driving up to the modernist flat-roofed Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Villas I was excited, the exterior architecture set the tone for design experiences to come. The hotel throughout is contemporary, with subtle Arabian touches integrated into the design. The lobby features cathedral height ceilings, and is minimally furnished; the vibe is masculine modern and becomes quite ambient at night with dramatic mood lighting. As I sat in the lobby, my design soul felt as if i were in a cozy jazz club, late-night listening to the last melodies of sweet music spill forth from a saxophone. It felt so right, warm, rich, and inviting. This richness is in part due to the heavy use of woods and marbles throughout the property. All wooden elements originate from a mixture of oak and black American walnut from Finland, and Chinese lava wave marble as well as white marble originating from Oman.

A total of 306 well-appointed rooms, suites and villas are available to the discerning guest. There are four room choices, standard, view, suite, and villa.  All villas, Beach View suites and Garden View suites have their own plunge pool. Each room measures at least 538 square feet (50 square meters) and has an over-sized balcony. 

I stayed in a standard Park King 'View,' it had a modern and arabic decor, and was accented with oak flooring. It was 538 sq. ft. of pure luxury, furnished with one king bed and a goose down duvet. The room had massive floor-to-ceiling windows, which opened onto a balcony that framed views of the Arabian Sea. The balcony could comfortably hold ten people. The bathroom was designed with sliding panel doors that open/close onto the bed/closet areas, it featured a Hans Grohe rain shower, stand-alone Toto bathtub, and marble surfaces. Modern amenities included a 42-inch TV, Nespresso coffee maker, and wireless Internet. The Park King 'View,' continued with the lobbies dramatic mood lighting and masculine interior. It was a wonderful room, fit precisely for a King.  

The hotel's signature restaurant, which I certainly fell in love with, The Park Bar & Grill, is spread over two levels and is connected by a long staircase. It offers a large seafood display, authentic Asian dishes and carefully selected steaks from the charcoal-fired grill. 

The Beach House serves home-made dishes from the Mediterranean coastline prepared family style and accompanied by a selection of wines, sangrias and cocktails.  With a view of the Arabian Sea on one side, and the beautifully landscaped gardens of Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi on the other, the restaurant is the ideal venue for dinner or lunch away from the bustle of the city, overlooking the waters of Saadiyat Beach.

The Café  is the hotel’s stylish all-day-dining restaurant serving Arabic specialities and featuring an impressive show kitchen with a large wood-burning oven.  Breakfast is served buffet style and features international and regional items.  Lunch and dinner offer a choice between a large selection of Middle Eastern hot and cold mezzeh from the restaurant’s oversized buffet counters, Arabic grills and oven-fresh bread.

The Library, my personal favorite of the four, is the Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi’s contemporary tea lounge serving selected teas and coffee specialties, as well as home-made chocolates and pastries.  With its 'Hermès,' orange leather panels, accents of black marble, and open fire, The Library is the perfect place for intimate meetings in a tranquil and comfortable setting. Everything at this venue is fantastically tasty and the service is second to none. 

• Outdoor Swimming Pools
• Saadiyat Beach
• Pool
• Camp Hyatt
• Fitness
• Atarmia Spa

Saadiyat beach is home to the endangered Hawksbill Turtle, which was placed on the International Union for Conservation of Nature's Red List. Fortunately since the 2010 inception of the Hawksbill Turtle Conservation Programme of Saadiyat, some 650 eggs have hatched successfully. The Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Villas has taken into consideration the context of its site and designed to meet an eco-friendly LEED-Silver Standard. Inventive green features abound, such as the use of beautiful skylights which reduce the need for electric lighting; also a mosaic of four large swimming and reflecting pools which catch prevailing island breezes, in-turn passively cooling the air. 

I thoroughly enjoyed my stay, the interiors were elegant, the landscapes were luxuriant, and the food was magnificent. My room was more than comfortable, I lounged for quite some time on the over-sized balcony taking in the Arabia Sea view, struggled daily to leave the body contouring king-size bed, and soaked in the Toto bathtub as if time ceased to exist. The Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Villas was designed to feel very residential and has succeeded in this effort, as my room truly became my home away from home. The hotel definitely has a 'grown atmosphere,' but its amenities are quite friendly for all travellers, from business to leisure, couples to families; the Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Villas fits all needs. I highly recommend this hotel for those looking for a beachfront vacation that is minutes away from everything.

My passion is to inspire others to live their best life now, to never settle for mediocrity - Quinn Russell, Curator of TravellersBazaar.com - email: thetravelbazaar@yahoo.com

Keep up with Quinn via: 
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Hospitality venues like the Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi are far and few. When I think on it further there is nothing comparable to it. The Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi is a Xanadu of surreal luxury, set within architecture that takes you out of your everyday and reminds you to live. I had the pleasure of staying for two unforgettable nights during my seven night stay in Abu Dhabi, UAE. I left thinking you really don't know what luxury is, until you've experienced the Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi, it's a fine execution of all the right reasons to travel.  

Yas Island
The Yas Viceroy is located on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE. The island is located off the coast of Abu Dhabi, it's a short 30 minute drive to the city centre, and 50 minutes to Dubai. With seven hotels, Yas Beach, Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, Yas Marina, Yas Links Golf Course, and Yas Marina Circuit fully operational, Yas Island is one of the top leisure hubs in the UAE. Yas Island is also only a 10 minute drive from Abu Dhabi’s International Airport. I really enjoyed the locale, as I spent most days in Dubai, the drive wasn't strenuous, nor was it difficult to reach Abu Dhabi's city centre. With so many options on Yas Island, there is something for everyone. 

I followed the design process & construction of this wondrous hotel via forums & news announcements, so I was thrilled to see it in person. New York architects, Asymptote Architecture, worked closely with designers Jestico + Whiles and Richardson Sadeki to create this iconic structure. Upon my arrival, I was immediately struck by the engineering feat that has been undertaken to create the incredible “Gridshell”. The 219 meter expanse of sweeping steel and 5,096 diamond shaped glass panels provides a „veil‟ that drapes over the two hotel towers, linked by a bridge that crosses the Yas Marina Circuit. The optical effect is stunning, reflecting thousands of colored lights against the surrounding sky, sea and desert landscape.

Internally, spaces flow easily together, with the filtered lights from the Gridshell highlighting the contemporary interiors. The Lobby utilises a modern interpretation of the Arabian Mashrabiya, where lightweight white latticed walls give defined private zones within an otherwise flowing space. The overall feel of the Yas Viceroy is very high-end and futuristic, featuring nods to nautical and F1 race inspired motifs.

Deluxe Guest-Room
I began my first nights stay in a deluxe guest-room, located in the hotel's main building. The room had a wonderful view of the marina and the F1 race track. The room features huge floor-to-ceiling windows, and the room measures 581 square feet or 54 square meters fitted with custom furniture and designer fabrics. The room came with all the needs and desires of any tech-savvy traveller. Overall, the deluxe guest-room is perfect for even the most demanding business or leisure traveller.

Island Suite
The second night I upgraded to a suite I will never forget - The Island Suite. Located in the hotel's marina building, island suites offer 1,500 square feet or 145 square meters of living space, and include floor-to-ceiling glass windows for natural light throughout and exciting views across the Yas Marina and its F1 racing circuit. Island Suites are fitted with customized décor, furniture and fabrics and the living room and bedroom are separated by sliding doors for the utmost in privacy. These palatial suites offer an executive workstation and lounge area ideal for relaxing, entertaining or a holding a small meeting, fitted with a state-of-the-art, surround-sound home theatre system. The Island Suites also feature two wall-mounted flat-screen televisions in the bedroom and living room walls, with connectivity to music players, game consoles or DVD players if required. Designed to offer the ultimate in convenience, the Island Suites feature state-of-the-art technology, including remote-controlled curtains and lighting that guests can adjust to suit their mood.

Words cannot describe the beauty and unfiltered luxury of the Island Suite, the name is well suited as the marina building itself is an 'island,' that sits in the waters of Yas Marina. I highly recommend this suite as a top bucket-list option for all travellers; you will never want to leave. I most certainly will return to experience this extravagant luxury. 

Food & Beverage
There are twelve dining and lounge venues at the Yas Viceroy. I tried three, Atayeb a Mediterranean/Arabic restaurant, Nautilus a fine dining seafood option, and NoddleBox a Southeast Asian venue. Other culinary dining options feature Japanese, Indian and international,  cuisines.

Yas Marina Circuit 
Yas Marina Circuit, an F1 racetrack which encircles the Yas Viceroy, makes for an experience hard to find elsewhere. Guests can sit and watch from their rooms & suites, various races held throughout the year; which is exactly what I did. The race is also great to catch from various Yas Viceroy F&B outlets.

Marina
Yas Marina is a premier global yachting destination, a mecca of mega-yachts can be seen in the marina during F1 race week, the Abu Dhabi International Boat Show, and various local events. The marina has a capacity for 140 berths, and is located at the heart of the Yas Marina Circuit, with berthing adjacent to the F1 race track.

Meeting
The hotel features six meeting rooms, four boardrooms, and a 504 sq. meter grand ballroom capable of receiving 600 persons.

I was more than satisfied with my stay, from the wonderful foods and excellent service, to the surreal interiors and exteriors, it all overwhelmed my five senses in a way only the Yas Viceroy can do. It was so good of a stay, I felt a tad bit melancholy leaving it all behind. Staying in the Island Suite was one of my grandest hospitality experiences, and with 1,500 sq. ft. of designer interiors all to myself, it's easy to understand why. I recommend this hotel in the highest regard because it is has such an unexpected sense of place; there is a surreality to its futuristic ambiance. I left the Yas Viceroy with one of the brand's signature slogans embedded within me, "Remember to Live." I certainly will, and I encourage traveller's to visit the hotel from November through April, these are the cooler months of Abu Dhabi. Plan your stay around the F1 Race Week, which takes place every November. Happy Travels! 

Quinn Russell
Curator of Traveller's Bazaar 

My passion is to inspire others to live their best life now, to never settle for mediocrity - Quinn Russell, Curator of TravellersBazaar.com - email: thetravelbazaar@yahoo.com

Keep up with Quinn via: 
- Traveller's Bazaar Newsletter: http://bit.ly/ZqMRfG 
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After my two night stay in Monaco, I headed westward along the Mediterranean coastal roads of the Cote d'Azure bound for Saint-Tropez via an 'adventurous' drive(see here what I mean). I was excited to see this French Riviera Provençal town as it is known throughout the world for its famed mega-yacht marina, chic luxury culture, and constant celebrity sightings. I was even more excited because I was staying at Hôtel Benkiraï Saint-Tropez; a lovely Provençal style boutique hotel operated by the award winning Charm & More Hotels and Resorts Group. 

The spirit of Saint-Tropez is recognisable worldwide, with its sunny squares, picturesque narrow streets and lively sidewalk cafés, its marina along the Mediterranean Sea with extravagant yachts, its events, its unforgettable nights and its fine sandy beaches bordered by fragrant pine groves. It is this reason Saint-Tropez, is a premiere vacation destination among celebrities, jet-setters, and the like.

Hôtel Benkiraï is located in the verdant hills of Saint-Tropez, but it's a mere 350 meters away from the mega-yacht Saint-Tropez Marina, it shops, and lively squares. Personally I loved the location, it's great for r&r which was what I desperately needed after my 3hr. trek from Monaco. It is also a wonderful hospitality venue for couples seeking a romantic getaway. 

The Charm & More group entrusted the design of the Benkiraï to renowned designer Patrick Jouin, who created an elegant establishment in a discreet and modern style. 

Set in a park amid flourishing vegetation, the Benkiraï has forty-one rooms and suites distributed among a large traditional Provençal house and three other buildings around the swimming pool. Pure, contemporary lines combine with the hotel’s Provençal architecture to create a happy marriage between traditional and modern styles. The styling of the hotel is for those who have an acquired taste in chic, this is certainly a design hotel through and through.

Benkiraï has four room options, standard, superior, luxe, and suite. I stayed in a superior room. The room's furniture was lacquered in light, restful colours, making for a contemporary loft-like experience. Its pure lines are enhanced by mood lighting, unpolished concrete floors, natural grey and pure white colours in the bedroom, and eye-catching baby blue in the bathroom.

What is drastically unique about the room is the bathroom, it opens onto the bedroom and has a remote controlled satin curtain for privacy. The water closet is separate. The washbasin opens like a jewellery casket before a large double-sided mirror, lit facing the bathroom and slightly smoky as seen from the room. It is all very space-age, yet feels so right in its settings. The room also has an oversized balcony, perfect for lounging, reading, or having a meal via room-service. 

Speaking of service the staff at Benkiraï are truly dedicated professionals. I called the front desk late in the night to place an order of pizza for me, so they kindly took my order, and said they would make all arrangements. Unfortunately they notified me that all pizza shops were closed, so a member of their staff actually went into town to find pizza from any available restaurant still open. To my dismay there were no restaurants offering pizza, so the staff member called and asked what else would I like, he recommended paninis from a local joint, I agreed. He delivered the order directly to my room, presented perfectly on a tray, and it was very appetizing. I was thoroughly satisfied and amazed at this act of dedication in service.

Hôtel Benkiraï Saint-Tropez is a lovely chic hide-away five minutes from all the sights and sounds, it is reasonably priced compared to many other hospitality venues in this Provençal town, making it an affordable luxury. I really loved, and was fascinated by the contrast from exterior architecture to interior. I hits you, and makes you say, "oh, that's cool!" The property has the makings for a complete intimate getaway: a dream destination, a dedicated and friendly staff, lavish grounds, a restaurant & bar, stylish rooms & suites, and an ambiance that can't be beat. I highly recommend this boutique hotel to couples and individuals looking for peace & plenty of it.

Quinn R. Russell
Curator of Traveller's Bazaar 

My passion is to inspire others to live their best life now, to never settle for mediocrity - Quinn Russell, Curator of TravellersBazaar.com - email: thetravelbazaar@yahoo.com

Keep up with Quinn via: 
- Traveller's Bazaar Newsletter: http://bit.ly/ZqMRfG 
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When I got news that the Bahamas was showcasing at the  Venice Biennale, I almost did a backflip, which sadly I cannot actually do, needless to say...I was very excited. Being a Bahamian myself, the news made me more than proud, and curious as to what exactly we would be showcasing to the world. To put in laymen terms, this art exhibition held every other year is regarded in the design world as an equivalent to perhaps the Oscars or Grammys, minus actual awards being handed out, but equal to their high-calibre status.

I found out the pavilion was to be orchestrated by artist Tavares Strachan, (b. 1979,) a Nassauvian, who lives in New York City, and received a BFA from the Rhode Island School of Design in 2003 and an MFA from Yale University in 2006. Surprisingly, I was unaware of this modern master of the arts, but quickly researched,  learned, and began to admire his thought-provoking work.

Strachan may best known for his internationally celebrated 2006 piece titled 'The Distance Between What We Have and What We Want,' which consisted of a 4.5-ton block of ice harvested in a river near Mount McKinley, Alaska. The ice was then sent via Federal Express to the Bahamas, where it was placed in a transparent refrigerated case and exhibited in Nassau. Ironically, solar power was used to keep the ice frozen; definitely a journey I am more than marveled by!

In this new exhibition, he is teaming up with The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism to produce the countries inaugural pavilion at the 55th International Venice Biennale. Tavares Strachan will present the, Polar Eclipse, a multi-sensory installation that investigates themes of heroic exploration, cultural displacement, oral history, and the shifting of historic narratives over time. Three geographically and culturally disparate sites—the Venice Arsenale, downtown Nassau, and the North Pole—will momentarily coexist in the Bahamian pavilion. The exhibition will exist in two dimensions: as a single, comprehensive installation, and as a collection of individual artworks. 

Strachan's recent trip to the magnetic Pole, as seen in the photo above, is the subject of a 10-foot, 360 degree video installation within the Bahamas Pavilion. 14 monitors, installed to create an immersive space, will screen documentation of the artist's reenactment of a historic narrative: the 1909 polar expedition of Robert Peary and Matthew Alexander Henson. 

Strachan's reenacted historic trek is quite intriguing; Henson who was an African American, was Peary’s associate, and is often credited as the first American to reach the pole. However, various written and oral iterations of that journey—whether Henson reached the Pole before the physically incapacitated Peary, whether Henson planted the American flag, and their complex relationship to one another and to Inuit communities—remain fluid and contested, more reflective of shifting ideologies than historic truth.

Tavares Strachan - 'Here and Now (2013).' Courtesy the artist. 

Also included in the exhibition are neon-light sculptures that further address the theme of belonging through a more conceptual approach. Strachan's, 'Here and Now (2013),' consists of three light sculptures titled, 'I Belong Here, You Belong Here, We Belong Here.' The works speak to the idea of displacement more directly, immediately confronting the viewer with the problematics of belonging and place. “I’m fascinated by the idea of being in two or more places at once, and exploring difference that way,” says Strachan. “ I couldn't agree more with Strachan's fascination of place, time, and reality, being an avid traveller and lover of all things philosophical, this is a great concept to work into art.

I am more than excited to experience this theoretical & transportational exhibition by Tavares Strachan; I am sure his work will showcase the Bahamas magnificently on the world stage. I salute you Tavares Strachan!  

Quinn R. Russell
Curator of TravellerBazaar.com 

My passion is to inspire others to live their best life now, to never settle for mediocrity - Quinn Russell, Curator of TravellersBazaar.com - email: thetravelbazaar@yahoo.com

Keep up with Quinn via: 
- Traveller's Bazaar Newsletter: http://bit.ly/ZqMRfG 
- Facebook: facebook.com/travellersbazaar 
- Twitter: twitter.com/travellerbazaar
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I am gushing with exuberance as I write this feature, it's one of those secrets you just cannot keep to yourself! Eager to tell you of my experience in Monaco, the playground for the rich and famous, renowned for its princesses and excesses, with Monte-Carlo, the centrepiece of the Riviera Principality. I had just finished my five night stay in Paris, and took the TVG train through the beautiful French countryside stopping in Nice, then switching to a regional train headed straight for Monaco. Within the Principality, just a few steps from Monte-Carlo’s legendary Casino, lies one of the world's best hospitality venues, Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo. I had the pleasure of staying in this former palace for two lavishly luxuriant nights, and I must confess...

it is among the best times of my life! The privately owned Hotel Metropole built in the Belle Epoque style on land formerly held by Pope Leon XIII, first welcomed guests in 1886 and quickly became synonymous with the ultimate glamour of Monte-Carlo. Among its many well-known clients, the five-star hotel has hosted Claudia Schiffer, Jennifer Lopez, Sting and Leonardo DiCaprio, who epitomise the hotel’s sophistication and prevailing chic. 

Moncao is the second smallest country in the world, after Vatican City; it measures three miles long by one-half miles wide (about the size of New York's Central Park). The principality enjoys a privileged location, nestled between the Alps and the Mediterranean Sea, bounded by the French Riviera to the west and the Italian Riviera to the east; it is a traveller's Shangri-la. Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo is  located in the countries best locale; facing the exhuberant  Casino de Monte-Carlo and Casino Square's stunning gardens. Hotel Metropole is the place to see and be seen! 

The hotel features some of the best shopping in Monaco, with the Metropole Shopping Centre located in the commercial gallery of the building. The shopping centre contains 80 retailers selling 3,500 of the worlds best brands. The Grand Prix racecourse passes by the Metropole, during race week guests have a front seat to all the action from the hotels terraces, how extraordinary!  

Arriving at the Metropole Monte-Carlo via private driver, it was a feast for my eyes, a scene out of a classic riviera film. Entering through the hotels iconic boxwood 'Arc de Triomphe,' I was lead to an equally impressive private romanesque road flanked with italian cypresses on both sides. I was simply...captivated. I was the king arriving home to my palace, or so I had thought. Walking in the lobby, a sense of wonderment and charm immediately came over me, I felt like I was on location of some new Bond film. The lobby interior was grand, filled with exotic woods, rich in muted tones with splashes of colour, scents of fine oils, faint sounds of beautiful music, marble floors abounding, and flowers from remote regions of the earth. The Jacques Garcia–designed interiors throughout the hotel are among the most beautiful I have encountered, and I believe they are examples of his best work. My five senses were vividly awoken; I knew from the point of check-in, my short-stay experience would convert me into a life-long guest.

After a quick check-in I was kindly escorted to my room, a De Luxe Junior Suite. I opened the suites heavy wooden door which felt of age and wisdom, I quietly gasped, my room was perfection. I will be candidly honest, my aesthetic palette of choice tends to lead toward modern / eclectic, rich european styles are appreciated, but are not my first choice, or so I had thought. The De Luxe Junior Suite was exquisite, mildly ornate in all the right ways, and flooded with wonderful natural lighting; I had found a 'new,' style that made me feel completely at home. The suite was spacious measuring 538 sq. ft. (50 sq. m), included high ceilings, had all the modern necessities, and lead onto two large french doors with Juliet balconies, overlooking the city and the amazing Mediterranean Sea. The suite included a walk-in closet made up of rich mahogany wood, and a marble bathroom that could easily be used as a full-fledge spa. 

In totality the hotel offers 133 rooms, including 64 suites and the Golden Square Suite (1,302-square-foot penthouse). There are ten room layouts to choose from, prices range from €400 - €10,000 per night (dependent on season). 

Where do I begin, the culinary experiences at the Metropole Monte-Carlo for me are not just among the best in the world, but are the best. I am a dedicated foodie, so I know the difference between good and great gastronomic experiences, this was certainly the latter. 

Let's start with the hotel's signature restaurant, Joël Robuchon Monte-Carlo which has 2 stars from the "Guide Michelin," it offers a Mediterranean-accented, sophisticated and accessible cuisine, executed by Head Chef Christophe Cussac, a protégé of Robuchon. The open Teppanyaki-style kitchen creates a special relationship between the Chef and guests. I should know as I sat at the chef's table, watching the magic of culinary masters at work. The warm, inviting decor complements this unique experience which stimulates all five senses, but most certainly focuses on taste. During my dinner I chose the 'Seasonal Discovery (Tasting) Menu,' - €199. It was an excellent 8 course menu (10 courses if you include the amuse bouche and espresso). I wondered after that tastebud-altering meal, would their second culinary option, the "Guide Michelin," 1 star YOSHI, be equally as good. 

I arrived the following day at YOSHI, confident this would be a meal like no other, as it is the first Joël Robuchon Japanese restaurant in the world! It offers healthy, modern cuisine created by the Japanese chef Takéo Yamazaki, under the guidance of Joël Robuchon and Christophe Cussac. In line with Japanese influences and the elegance of the hotel, the Franco-Portuguese interior designer Didier Gomez created a restaurant in a clean, warm style, with pops of modern colour. The restaurant room has a sushi bar and opens onto a Japanese-inspired garden, designed by the landscape artist Jacques Messin. I ordered LE BENTO BOX which comes with a starter, main course and dessert. It is Inspired by the traditional Japanese lunch box, and everything is served at the same time in an elegant black lacquered box. To sum up my lunch, who knew the best sushi outside of Japan was in Monaco! (LE BENTO BOX and more - from 29 € per person)

As if I wasn't already in a zen-like state after experiencing much of the hotels wonderful offerings, I decided to try Metropole ESPA Monte-Carlo. Upon opening the door, I walked into a world of well-being, a truly luxurious setting, where you escape into calm and harmony, enjoying special moments of privacy and relaxation. Metropole ESPA Monte-Carlo is a member of the "Leading Spas of the World." What sets Metropole ESPA Monte-Carlo apart from all others, is the attention to detail in service which is found throughout the entire hotel, you are treated with the highest level of respect, kindness, and luxury. The treatments are divine, and customized to your liking via consultation with your personal masseuse. I chose a vigorous full body and facial massage, rubbed with essential oils from afar. After leaving Metropole ESPA Monte-Carlo, I felt like I was walking on heavenly clouds; what I had just experienced was probably one of the most calming moments in my life, it is just that good! 

Words can only go so far, a description of Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo fits this conundrum. I can tell you how amazing the architecture is, how luxurious the interior design appears, how fragrant the hotels private gardens smell, or how decadently flavorful the food may be...but the only way to understand it, is to go! Go now and experience through your five senses! The air is a bit richer in Monaco, the buildings shine just a bit brighter, the yachts stretch meters further, and the luxury goes beyond compare, it is a wonderful experience. What I've learned from this iconic hotel,  service is everything, it makes your experience come to life so beautifully. The staff is of the best calibre in the world, they are true masters in the luxury of service. Their skill is precognitive and symphonic. I look forward to many revisits throughout my lifetime!

Quinn R. Russell
Curator of Traveller's Bazaar

My passion is to inspire others to live their best life now, to never settle for mediocrity - Quinn Russell, Curator of TravellersBazaar.com - email: thetravelbazaar@yahoo.com 


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Continuing on my five night grand tour of Paris, the "City of Light," I checked out of L'Hotel du Collectionneur Arc de Triomphe (linked review), and headed to its sister hotel, Les Jardins du Marais. I was excited and curious to see what the next hotel had to offer, as I had just spent two amazing nights in the 8th Arrondissement. Concierge notified me the neighborhood of 'Le Marais,' was equivalent to Lower Manhattan's...

Soho; so immediately i knew I was headed in the right direction! I love Soho, NYC, who doesn't, it's chic, artsy, filled with amazing lofts, and is the archetypal example of successful urban inner-city regeneration.

Upon arriving to Les Jardins du Marais, I knew I was in for a treat. The hotel is located on 74 Rue Amelot, it's a relatively quiet street, very parisian, with a Carrefour City (grocery store), and great "petit" restaurants dotting the way. Rue Amelot even has a tiny, 'Sushi Room Restaurant,' now it remains to be seen if it is any good as I did not get the chance to try it out, but the option is there and that's great! Les Jardins du Marais is located within the heart of 'Le Marais;' this neighborhood is found within the mythical, medival, & historic 3rd & 4th Arrondissements. The hotel features a boutique-village concept (renovated in 2009), and is nestled amongst hidden art galleries, trendy restaurants, and designer boutiques. What's great about staying in 'Le Marais,' is your are so close to the must-see Place des Vosges, Picasso and Carnavalet Museums, and Place de la Bastille.

I walked into the lobby and began smiling, there were Philippe Starck louis ghost chairs everywhere; I smiled because this chair is one of my favorite executions in furniture design. The lobby was cozy, featuring oversized purple suede seating, miniature jewel encrusted lights, and was awash in natural lighting; most certainly, this was a trendy SOHO-like space. The hotel's public spaces are decidedly modern, art-deco motifs are found throughout the rooms and suites. 

After another quick and easy check-in, I was escorted by a kind staff member through the hotels large courtyard that measures 16,150 ft2. Walking through the courtyard that was surprisingly tropical and filled with al fresco seating, you realize the hotel truly captures the boutique village-like concept with a cobble-stone walk-way the leads guests to the various buildings that make up Les Jardins du Marais. Visually, it's a nice experience. In totality the hotel features 265 rooms and suites, you can choose from five different room-types that overlook the interior courtyard or the 'Le Marais,' district itself. I was guided to my room-type, the junior executive suite, which was quite spacious, featuring oversized windows and high loft-like ceilings. The suite even included a kitchenette; the hotel is great for an extended stay, as it feels very residential and welcoming. The bathroom had splashes of marble and included a soaking tub that doubled as a shower; it was fully stocked with all necessary toiletries. Overall, the room was comfortable, modern, and carried a hint of art-deco styling which was perviously featured at its sister hotel L'Hotel du Collectionneur Arc de Triomphe. 

Les Jardins du Marais bar & restaurant features a menu where simplicity and sophistication come face to face with contemporary French inspired cuisine. Continuing with the lobby design, furniture by Philippe Starck is throughout the restaurant. It is definitely a treat for the eyes and even more-so the gastronomist. The restaurant opens out to the courtyard with lovely al fresco dining options. 

Les Jardins du Marais has 10,763 ft² (1,000 m²) of conference space; this space is made up of 5 luxurious and sophisticated rooms. They are divided around an Atrium that overlooks the private courtyard. The courtyard itself is also leasable space, which previously has been used for film shootings, fashion shows, weddings, and art expositions.

I enjoyed my stay, it was a nice venue that made me feel as if I lived in Paris; the cobble stone courtyard with its lush plants and various buildings that surround it gave a village-like ambiance. I felt a sense of place in this hotel. Being located in 'Le Marais,' which has trendy art galleries, vintage couture boutiques, and must-see architectural sites, created an unforgettable walking experience. I highly recommend an extended stay at Les Jardin du Marais if you're looking for a private hotel to blend in with Parisian culture; you will forget you're a visitor, and that is certainly good travel. I hope to revisit in the near future! 

Quinn R. Russell
Curator of Traveller's Bazaar 

- Reception & concierge service 24/7
- Parking (by reservation), luggage service 
- Room service  
- Laundry and dry cleaning service 
- 11 Meeting rooms - Business center 
- Free Wi-Fi 
- SPA: coming soon...