Bentley Continental GT

Crewe’s control: the Cheshire cat has been given a new lease of life with a massive injection of cash from VW. Photograph: observer

Price: £135,760
Miles per gallon: 17.1
Top speed: 198mph

What do you do when you see a sweating man changing the foot-wide punctured tyre of a Bentley Continental GT in the rain? You smile, of course, then drive past and inhale that most satisfying aroma – rank schadenfreude. Well, last weekend, on the busy A429, that man in the rain was me. To make the most of my time with the new GT, I'd taken it on a mini Grand Tour, up through the Cotswolds then back in a long lazy loop to London. I'd spent several happy hours powering past small fry and practising my look of haughty disdain. But then, to my horror, I plunged into a gaping pothole. A sickening thump was followed by the unmistakable slapping sound of a flat tyre. Worse was to come. The skinny spare has a limit of only 50mph, so I spent the day inching the 200mph supercar back home. The final insult was added when I was flashed doing 48 in a 40 just miles from London. Oh the perfect irony…

The Bentley Continental GT is enormous – it weighs in at an immodest 2.3 tonnes. The bonnet stretches into the horizon. Peering forward you can only hazard a guess where your four corners are. And yet, despite its awesome scale, it's the little things that win you over. The steering wheel is heated. The air vents are controlled by organ-stop chrome knobs. You can press a button to remind yourself of not only the air pressure in each tyre (zero in the front left), but which set of wheels you're driving on – the 20in, the 21in or the winter wheels. The boot is opened by lightly brushing the "B" on the rear badge. The boot and doors are self-closing and, let's be honest, having to shut things can be a real fag. Best of all is the fact that when you sink into your fat-man's driving seat, a small arm passes you your seat belt. Heaven forbid you might have to reach over your own shoulder.

If the Conti GT were a person it could well be Michael Winner. It is larger than life, brazen, unapologetic and quintessentially English – yet despite its shortcomings inspires great affection. It is packed with contradictions: it's hugely overweight yet boasts graceful lines and dances round corners; it is conservative yet technically ahead of its time; it is one of the most glamorous marques in the world, yet it is built in Crewe. But, channelling its inner Michael Winner, the Bentley doesn't hide this fact – it rejoices in it. Every vehicle has a metal plate screwed to the door with the words: "Handcrafted by Bentley Motors Ltd, Crewe, England."

This most recent model of the Continental GT now comes with a revolutionary six-speed auto gearbox that reduces shift times by 50%. The monumental 6-litre twin-turbo W12 engine has been uprated and now puts out a heroic 567bhp. The car features active air suspension, so it raises and lowers itself to improve its aerodynamics.

All this indulgence brings with it a certain amount of pain. And that pain is felt most acutely when watching the fuel-consumption figure. You feel like cheering when the figure jumps from 4.3 to 4.4 miles per gallon. Admittedly that was in nasty start-stop traffic – on the open road it was managing an average of about 21mpg – the official combined figure is a pitiful 17.1mpg. And that's surely enough to bring a blush even to the cheek of Michael Winner

Daisy Lowe Attends Fashion's Night Out

Daisy Lowe, David Gandy and Pixie Geldof were among the big names at Vogue's Fashion's Night Out in London yesterday (08.09.11), kicking off the fashion season in style.

 

Daisy Lowe, David Gandy and Pixie Geldof were among the big names at Vogue's Fashion's Night Out in London yesterday (08.09.11).

The glamorous trio were at the Asprey party in New Bond Street and the Vodafone Experience store in nearby Oxford Street as they helped kick off the fashion season in style.

Designer Richard Nicoll was at the Vodafone Oxford St experience store, where he personalised limited edition Richard Nicoll tote bags for customers.

The evening marked the beginning of Richard's two season LFW partnership with Vodafone which will continue to offer exclusive access and invaluable fashion insight for customers.

The partnership will also see Richard and the Vodafone innovation team working closely to design an on trend accessory that fuses technology and cutting edge design to deliver a truly pioneering fashion product that will be showcased in Nicoll's Autumn/Winter 2012 runway show.

Other stars to attend Fashion's Night Out in London - the worldwide annual after-hours shopping extravaganza - including Gwyneth Paltrow, Roland Mouret and Matthew Williamson.

Talking about the event, Matthew said: "It's a proper celebration of British fashion and it's about brand building and having fun with people who have a keen interest in fashion," he told us. "Though having said that, I have just sold a dress to someone I thought would be an unlikely buyer - so we're capturing new customers too."

Mercedes-Benz Official Sponsor of London Fashion Week S/S 2012: Show Schedule

September’s events will take place at six unique venues in the capital: Somerset House, Mercer Studios, The Royal Opera House, The Topshop Show Space, My Beautiful City: Old Sorting Office and The Freemasons’ Hall. 
Here is the most recently updated provisional show schedule released by the British Fashion Council to ensure you keep your finger firmly on the fashion pulse.

FRIDAY 16TH SEPTEMBER 
09.00 Paul Costelloe BFC Show Space at Somerset House 
09.30 - 12.00 Preen by Thorton Bregazzi TBC                                                                 
10.00 Corrie Nielson TBC                                                                                     
11.00 - 19.00         Orla Kiely                 Portico Rooms at Somerset House 
11.00             Caroline Charles             BFC Show Space at Somerset House 
12.00            Jena.Theo                                         WC1 
12.00 - 14.00         Emilia Wickstead                             TBC 
13.00             Bora Aksu                                            BFC Show Space at Somerset House 
13.00 - 15.00         The Rodnik Band                                 WC2 
14.00             Maria Grachvogel                              WC2 
15.00                     Jean-Pierre Braganza                                BFC Show Space at Somerset House 
15.00 - 17.00            bStore                                                 W1 
16.00                     sass & bide                                         WC2 
17.00                     Felder.Felder                                        BFC Show Space at Somerset House 
17.00 - 19.00         Teatum Jones                                     WC2 
18.00                     Basso & Brooke                                 WC2 
19.00             Ann-Sofie Back Atelje                     BFC Show Space at Somerset House 
19.30 - 21.30         Christopher Raeburn                                 EC2 
20.30                     PPQ                                                 BFC Show Space at Somerset House

SATURDAY 17TH SEPTEMBER 
09.00             DAKS                     BFC Show Space at Somerset House 
10.00                     Clements Ribeiro                             WC1 
10.45             J.W.Anderson women                     Portico Rooms at Somerset House 
11.00                     Ashish                                                 BFC Show Space at Somerset House 
11.15            J.W.Anderson women                     Portico Rooms at Somerset House 
12.00                     Julien Macdonald                                TBC 
12.00 - 14.00         Zoë Jordan                                            WC1 
13.00                     Jasper Conran                                     BFC Show Space at Somerset House 
14.00                     Emilio de la Morena                            SW1 
14.15             Craig Lawrence salon show         Portico Rooms at Somerset House 
15.00                     Jaeger London                                    BFC Show Space at Somerset House 
15.15             Craig Lawrence salon show         Portico Rooms at Somerset House 
16.00                     House of Holland                             WC1 
16.00 - 18.00         Sister by Sibling                                The Terrace at Somerset House 
17.00                     John Rocha                                         BFC Show Space at Somerset House 
18.00                     Vivienne Westwood Red Label             EC1 
19.00                     Jonathan Saunders                             W2 
19.30 - 21.30         Dominic Jones                                    Portico Rooms at Somerset House 
20.00                     Issa London                                         BFC Show Space at Somerset House 
20.45                     Fashion Fringe                                     WC2

SUNDAY 18TH SEPTEMBER 
09.00             Margaret Howell                             W1 
09.15                     J. JS Lee                                             Portico Rooms at Somerset House 
10.00                     Mulberry                                             W1 
10.15                     J. JS Lee                                            Portico Rooms at Somerset House 
11.00                     Richard Nicoll                                     SW1 
11.30                     Mulberry salon show                            W1 
12.00                     Fashion East                                        W1 
13.00                     Nicole Farhi                                         WC2 
13.30                     Peter Jensen                                         Portico Rooms at Somerset House 
14.00                     Holly Fulton                                 BFC Show Space at Somerset House 
14.30                     Peter Jensen                                         Portico Rooms at Somerset house 
15.00                     Unique                                                 Topshop Show Space 
15.30                     Unconditional salon show                 WC1 
16.00                     Marios Schwab                                    BFC Show Space at Somerset House 
16.30                     Unconditional salon show                 WC1 
17.30 - 19.30         Fred Butler                                         Portico Rooms at Somerset House 
17.00                        Paul Smith                                         SW1 
18.00                     Tom Ford Women’s Presentation     SW1 
19.15                     Matthew Williamson                         SE1 
20.30                     Acne                                             WC2

MONDAY 19TH SEPTEMBER 
09.00             Peter Pilotto                 Topshop Show Space 
10.00 - 12.00         Antipodium                 Portico Rooms at Somerset House 
10.00                     Antonio Berardi                                 SE1 
11.00                     Pringle of Scotland                            SW1 
12.00                     Christopher Kane                             TBC 
13.00                     Michael van der Ham                     Topshop Show Space 
14.00                     Erdem                                                    WC2 
14.00 - 18.00         Christian Blanken                                 Portico Rooms at Somerset House 
14:30-16:30        Jordan Askill                The Terrace at Somerset House 
15.00                     Mark Fast                                             BFC Show Space at Somerset House 
16.00                     Burberry Prorsum                    TBC     
17:00            Nasir Mazhar                Topshop Show Space 
17.30                        Louise Gray                                     Topshop Show Space 
18.30                     Todd Lynn                                     BFC Show Space at Somerset House 
19:30                     Giles                                                     WC2 
20:30                      Temperley London                             WC1

TUESDAY 20TH SEPTEMBER 
09.00             Mary Katrantzou             Topshop Show Space 
10.00                     Aquascutum                                        WC2 
11.00 - 13.00         Designers Remix                                             Portico Rooms at Somerset House                     11.00                     Roksanda Ilincic                                  SW1 
11:00-13:00        Saloni                    TBC 
12.00                     Osman                                                  BFC Show Space at Somerset House 
13.00                     Kinder Aggugini             TBC 
14.00                     Meadham Kirchhoff             Topshop Show Space 
15.00 - 19.00         Tata-Naka                                             Portico Rooms at Somerset House 
15.00                     Danielle Scutt                                     TBC 
15.30 - 17.30         Body Amr                                             TBC 
16.00                     David Koma                                     Topshop Show Space 
17.00                     Danielle Scutt                                 BFC Show Space at Somerset House                         
18.30             Aminaka Wilmont                                BFC Show Space at Somerset House

WEDNESDAY 21ST SEPTEMBER / MENS 
09.00             J.W.Anderson                  Portico Rooms at Somerset House 
09.45                     Christopher Shannon                        BFC Show Space at Somerset House 
10.00 - 14.00         Aquascutum men’s presentation     Navy Board Rooms 
10.30                     MAN                                                     Topman Venue 
11.30                        Lou Dalton                             Portico Rooms at Somerset House 
12.15                     TOPMAN Design                                 Topman Venue 
13.00 - 17.00         NEWGEN and Fashion East Men                                                                                                                                             
                                    Installations                                         The Terrace at Somerset House 
13.30                      E.Tautz                                 WC2 
14.30                     James Long                                        BFC Show Space at Somerset House 
15.30                     Oliver Spencer                         TBC 
16.00 - 18.00         Mr Start                              WC2 
16.30                     KTZ                                                     BFC Show Space at Somerset House 
17:15            A Child of the Jago            TBC 
18:15, 19:15         New Power Studio                             Portico Rooms at Somerset House 
18.00                     RAKE                                                    W1 
19.00                          Hardy Amies                                        W1

 

 

Mercedes-Benz Official Sponsor of London Fashion Week S/S 2012: Show Schedule

Interest in aircraft chartering to London 2012 heats up

 

Leading global aircraft expert, Air Charter Service, says that it is already starting to receive requests and bookings for charters for next year’s Olympic Games – more than 11 months before they are scheduled to start. Francois-Xavier Camus, Commercial Jet Director of ACS Paris, commented: “Following the Athletics World Championships last week, thoughts now turn to next year’s London Olympics. We are receiving enquiries from travel agencies and event organisers who are already planning and budgeting for 2012 – the games next year promise to be the biggest ever, and we hope to help as many people as possible travel in comfort and style to London.” He continued: “We have four offices in Europe as well as a further ten on other continents. With our head office and large team in London, we are really focussing on what we can offer fans, sponsors and teams wishing to travel to the Olympics next year. I know that our offices in Germany and Spain are liaising with their clients as well. “London airport slots are at a premium over the course of the games, therefore it is essential that people wishing to travel from overseas book their aircraft in advance. With our extensive knowledge of airports in and around London we are able to help our clients make the right choice.” Air Charter Service’s worldwide offices arrange almost 6,000 charters a year and the company is extremely experienced in a variety of sports charters.

Londoners’ style at Fashion Night Out in West End

 

Fashion bible Vogue hosted a swanky event to preview next week’s London Fashion Week. Fashion Night Out in Bond Street and Oxford Street saw shops roll out the red carpet, an appearance by rapper Tinchy Stryder and also living dummies in display windows. A-list actress Gwyneth Paltrow enjoyed a swanky party at Coach in New Bond Street, opting for the timeless black outfit. It really was the only place to be for anyone with a love of style - and London24 was there to celebrate some style creations. Of course, not everyone can afford an army of stylists like the wife of Coldplay singer Chris Martin.

Rich Russians' love affair with Britain

 

In the countryside outside Moscow, an army of cement mixers is droning, churning and, quite bizarrely, helping to turn Russian fields into an English town. They're building 200 "British-style" houses here and they've called the compound Hyde Park. It's one of several UK-themed residential areas popping up around Russia, for rich Russians with a soft spot for Britain. On a tour of the village, I'm shown rows of big brick buildings with tall chimneys and English lawns. Each house has its own stylish title, like Dorchester, Park Lane and Windsor. A gated community called Hyde Park built in Russia for lovers of British style I'm invited into Oxford, where new resident Yuri Dranga shows me round. Yuri is particularly proud of his British kitchen, where the wallpaper is tartan and the tiles have pictures of Beefeaters, red telephone boxes and people queuing at a bus stop. Very tasteful. Yuri admits to being a big fan of the UK. "Britain is a very stable and a very conservative country," he tells me. "Just the kind of place Russia should be." Strained relations It's true that the political relationship between the UK and Russia has been strained in recent years. Particularly since the murder in London of former Russian security agent Alexander Litvinenko. There have also been spy scandals, financial disputes, and Moscow is annoyed by the number of anti-Kremlin tycoons who've taken refuge in the UK. Continue reading the main story “ Start Quote I love London, the smell of the city, the way of life... jogging in Hyde Park.” Grigory Guselnikov Russian investor But none of that has dented wealthy Russians' love affair with the British way of life. What's more, they're not just copying Britain - they're also buying up Britain. You name it, the Russians have been coming over to acquire it: from football clubs, like Chelsea and Portsmouth, to newspapers like the Independent. The book chain Waterstones is now Russian-owned - and so is the flagship Rolex store in central London. I simply love your country, tycoon Grigory Guselnikov tells the BBC It was tycoon Grigory Guselnikov who clinched the Rolex deal. Like many Russian businessmen, he feels it's safer doing business in Britain than back home in Russia. "Some people like, I simply love your country," Mr Guselnikov told me when we met in a Moscow restaurant. "I don't know why, but when my plane starts to descend I feel safe and secure. I love London, the smell of the city, the way of life, and my every morning jogging in Hyde Park." I ask him what it's like doing business in the UK compared with Russia. "It's absolutely transparent. I feel very easy. Although sometimes you have to overpay a little bit to lawyers. Sometimes I think it's a country of lawyers." Cuisine not a hit Back in Russia, I'm reminded that a British lifestyle is available here, too - at a price. An English-style pub near Moscow where President Medvedev and Vladimir Putin have enjoyed a night out In another gated community near Moscow I discover a giant English pub-restaurant. There's a photo of President Dmitry Medvedev and Prime Minister Vladimir Putin on the wall; the two leaders live down the road and popped round recently for a night out. "We decided to build a restaurant in the English style because people who live in this village often go to England," pub manager Oleg Alyshev told me. "Some of them have houses there and some of their children study in England. So we think this place suits for this village." I've never been to a pub quite like this one before. The beer is £8 a pint. And instead of fish and chips, there's pate de foie gras and gazpacho. So where's the roast beef and Yorkshire pud? "Unfortunately, English style is more popular in Russia than English cuisine," Oleg told me. "That's why the restaurant has a European menu." Still, English pubs and British homes - it's like a Little Britain for the few Russians who can afford it.

Rock and roll legend Slash set to jet into Epsom

 

Rock and roll legend, Slash, of Guns and Roses fame will be jetting into the UK to be at the grand opening of GuitarGuitar in Epsom later this month. The guitar hero, famed for his aviator glasses, top hat and legendary licks, will be in store for a special autograph signing and to slash the sash to open the largest guitar emporium in the UK. A handful of lucky competition winners will be invited to meet the man himself at this exclusive event which will take place on Thursday, September 15 from 2.30 to 5pm. Five exclusive Dunlop pedals, signed by Slash, made available in partnership with the not for profit Surrey organisation, Love of Learning, will also be available to purchase at a cost of £200.

Jaguar C-X16 hybrid concept

Jaguar has released new details of a hybrid sports model it is working on as a potential successor to the legendary E-Type.

The new C-X16 two-seater uses a new 3.0-liter V6 engine along with a 70kW hybrid motor and is described as an ‘exploration’ of future performance hybrid options.

Using a combination of gasoline and batteries, the C-X16 offers a top speed of 300 km/h (186 mph) and a 0-100 km/h time of 4.4 seconds, with an electric-only top-speed of 50 mph (80 km/h)

The electric motor can also be activated using a steering wheel button for a power boost, inspired by the recently-introduced Formula One KERS system, charged through a brake regeneration system.

The C-X16 picks up on a couple of new Jaguar styling signals such as the front trapezoidal grille, although Jaguar says that it is intended to showcase the evolution of its design direction, with sharp creases on the hood and a sweeping roofline.

Inside, it is finished in ‘vermillion red’ and uses a climate control system which Jaguar says is inspired by the Typhoon fighter jet, with dash-mounted vents that appear from the dash to provide a blast of air as necessary, retracting afterwards.

The model will go on show for the first time at the Frankfurt Motor Show (september 15-25), where it will compete for attention with the upgraded Porsche 911 Carrera, the Maserati GranCabrio Fendi and the Ferrari 458 Spider

 

 

Pop legend Lulu and Harry Judd from McFly are putting on their dancing shoes for this year's Strictly Come Dancing competition.

 

Lulu is swapping singing for salsa

Ex-Neighbours stars Jason Donovan and Holly Valance have also agreed to take part in the show, according to The Sun newspaper.

It has been confirmed by show producers thatDaybreak's sport presenter Dan Lobb,Waterloo Road actress Chelsee Healey and impressionist Rory Bremner, will also be taking part in the hit TV show.

Sven-Goran Eriksson's ex Nancy Dell'Olio and ex- EastEnders star Anita Dobson plus astrologer Russell Grant are also set to be swapping their day jobs for salsa dancing.

Speaking about the line-up, a source told The Sun newspaper, "Lulu is lots of fun and will bring in viewers who remember her from the Sixties - but also younger fans who know her from her duet with Take That on Relight My Fire. Harry will tick the heartthrob box."

The BBC will officially confirm the Strictly Come Dancing line-up on The One Show on Tuesday.

London Fashion Week is approaching and there are hospitality packages on offer

London Fashion Week is approaching and there are hospitality packages on offer for those keen to get a close-up look at the latest trends as the autumn and winter collections emerge.

The event runs from September 16th to 20th, with the majority of the venues being located in Somerset House.

Others include the Topshop Venue in the Royal Opera House, Fashion Scout in the Freemasons' Hall on Great Queen Street and the My Beautiful City, in the Old Sorting Office on the corner of Museum Street and New Oxford Street.

The event features collections from the likes of Paul Costelloe, Christopher Raeburn, Vivienne Westwood, Holly Fulton, Michael Van Der Ham, David Koma and Topman Design.

Speaking about the week, Caroline Reader, the event manager for London Fashion Weekend - which follows later in the month - said that she hopes to get away from her desk to see the collections by Christopher Kane and Richard Nicholl.

Fashion week photographs of Kate Moss or Agyness Deyn sashaying down the catwalk in the latest season’s designs appear in magazines and on front pages around the world.

Fashion week photographs of Kate Moss or Agyness Deyn sashaying down the catwalk in the latest season’s designs appear in magazines and on front pages around the world. Yet look more closely and it appears that few of these images are taken at London Fashion Week.

Many of the most talked-about models of the moment — some household names, some the next big thing — will appear at fashion weeks in New York, Paris and Milan, but not London. Some fly in for a day or two, others skip London completely. Industry figures say London has a lot going for it: creativity, innovation, cool. But compared with the other capitals, it doesn’t have the financial clout to attract the “hottest” models.

Is this damaging London’s fashion reputation?

“A lot of things have gone wrong with fashion weeks,” says Carole White, the founder of Premier models. “It’s causing a problem for the British fashion industry. London designers are not realistic about what they pay. Their rates have not moved on since 1983.” She says London offers models only a fraction of the fees they can command elsewhere.

White knows what she is talking about. The workaholic, outspoken star of Channel 4 TV’s fly-on-the-wall documentary The Model Agency is the woman Naomi Campbell called “mum” for years (until they had a big falling out). She has represented the likes of Claudia Schiffer and Christy Turlington as well as famously turning down Kate Moss for being “too short.”

The London “squeeze” has been debated since New York, due to start tomorrow, moved its position in the schedule. New York is traditionally seen as more powerful than London, which is how the change was pushed through two years ago. “Since New York got moved to the first slot, all the fashion weeks butt up against each other. It’s crazy.” White warns that some of the most in-demand models may struggle to make it to London, which opens on Sept. 16.

It makes more sense for them to jet straight from New York to Milan. “There is a lot of politics going on here. They seem to think it helps the buyers. But it doesn’t help the models.”

Aidan Jean-Marie, creative director of Premier and one of White’s bookers, says: “Big names like Kate Moss or Stella Tennant, they make their guest appearances elsewhere. We don’t have the money in London any more.”

Last season one of the most memorable photographs from the shows was Kate Moss swishing down the runway in a rare catwalk appearance. That was for Louis Vuitton in Paris. But this isn’t so much about household names (many of these models no longer do catwalk work anyway as advertising is so much more lucrative). It’s about the young women who suddenly become “the latest big thing” on the eve of these shows. The model bookers argue that these “hot girls” (as they call them) are what creates the noise around a collection.

“The buzz of London is the creativity,” White says. “And you want the best models to showcase that. They don’t have to be the most famous, but they have to be the coolest. If a girl is really tired and looks like she’s going to have a really good show season in Milan, the agents will say, ‘Let’s skip London.’ It tends to lessen us as a market.”

For the models, London is apparently not that appealing: “Most girls are not avaricious. They want to cover their costs and make a little profit. But in London they can leave with a debt and have to return the next season to clear it.”

London Fashion Week Spring 2012 Preview

 

The buzz around London is that this is going to be the season of the new-established designers. Labels such as Erdem, Christopher Kane, and Peter Pilotto have garnered widespread coverage with celebrities donning their wares on the red carpet and fashion editors flocking to feature them in magazines but they still lack the widespread recognition of other established designers. This will be their year to stand out and join the big leagues.  We shouldn't expect too many big-name models as it's been revealed that LFW designers pay much less than Paris or Milan and London is simply too short to make it worth their while. Scheduled September 16 - 20, The British Fashion Council petitioned to have London Fashion Week extended earlier in the year but an extension isn't in the cards this season. The Topshop Show Space has returned to the Old Eurostar Terminal from two seasons ago and will be equipped with the always popular cafe.  Pringle of Scotland's new Design Director Alisair Carr is looking to photographer Watanabe Katsumi to inspire his debut collection.  For 2012, Mulberry's Emma Hill was inspired by the British seaside. We should expect seventies silhouettes with floral fabrics and that signature Mulberry eccentricity.  Matthew Williamson will be showing his collection in the turbine hall at The Tate Modern. Designers with the British Fashion Council's NEWGEN sponsorship are Holly Fulton, Louise Gray, and Michael Van der Ham. It has also been revealed that Van der Ham will be showing a collaboration with Christian Louboutin.  Luxury hosiery brand Bebaroque is collaborating with PPQ for customized and jewel encrusted tights and bodysuits.  The Aldo Rise collaborations with designers J.W. Anderson and Preen will be revealed.  Tom Ford will be showing his collection to a very select group of buyers and press. It is by far the most hush-hush exclusive presentation of the week.   Rumor has it that there may be a few last minute show cancelations due to budgeting but we'll have to wait and see.

Supermodel Kate Moss is no stranger to luxury -- so when the newly married Moss recently departed on her honeymoon, it was only fitting she did it in style: superyacht style.

Sailing aboard the 206-foot superyacht "Lionheart," Moss and new husband Jamie Hince have spent the last two weeks exploring the Mediterranean, dropping anchor in some of the most glitzy port towns, including Portofino, and Cannes.
But Moss and Hince are just the latest in a long line of celebrity lovers who have set sail in order to discover exotic and romantic locations.
Below, we check out some of the most romantic and celebrity-laden sailing hotspots from around the world.
Western Mediterranean
Glamour, glitz and sun-drenched charm -- the Western Mediterranean has it all.
Dotted with some of the world's most exclusive port towns, including St. Tropez, Cannes, Monaco, Portofino and San Remo -- this is where Europe's wealthy come to play.
A sailor's haven, glittering port towns give way to sheltered beaches, soaring cliffs and chic fishing villages. The Cote d'Azur oozes French sophistication, while the dramatic beauty of the Italian Riviera has no rival.
This is not a holiday for shy romantics seeking seclusion -- but for those wanting red-carpet romance, the Med is the only place to head.
The Seychelles
An archipelago of 115 pristine islands dotting the Indian Ocean, the Seychelles is paradise personified. Boasting ribbons of exquisite white sands leading into crystal-clear waters, the island chain is a beach junkie's dream.
Famous for its chilled and tranquil atmosphere, the Seychelles gained extra bling status this year when royal newlyweds Prince William and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, spent their honeymoon here.
Lying 1,600 km off the east coast of Africa, the Seychelles are best discovered by sea. Lying outside the cyclone belt, the islands' calm blue waters are perfect for sailing year round.
The island of Mahe, located in the northeastern part of the chain, is home to the main port, and the coral atoll of Aldabra -- the largest raised coral atoll on Earth and a UNESCO World Heritage Site -- is alone worth the trip.
French Polynesia
Mother Nature was in a generous mood when she created the islands of French Polynesia.
Playground of the rich and famous, Sweden's Princess Victoria and husband Daniel Westling have honeymooned here, as well as Hollywood A-lister Nicole Kidman and husband Keith Urban.
Consisting of 118 islands and atolls spread across an area the size of Western Europe, its dramatic landscape -- the exotic remnants of an ancient chain of volcanoes -- is almost impossible to believe.
Home to reef-lined islands, tranquil azure lagoons, warm emerald waters and white coral-sand beaches, who wouldn't want a slice of the South Pacific dream?
The most famous and largest island in the chain, Tahiti, known as "the Queen of the Pacific," is the perfect starting point, with the islands of Bora Bora and Moorea a must for those wanting a taste of celebrity chic.
The Bahamas
Almost as famous for its celebrity patronage as its breathtaking beauty, the Bahamas consist of 700 stunning islands.
It was here that hot-blooded Spanish actors and Oscar-winning power couple Penelope Cruz and Javier Bardem tied the knot last year.
One of the best sailing destinations for novices and experts alike, the Bahamas have enticed sailors for centuries, including Christopher Columbus, who sailed ashore in 1492, his first foothold in the "New World."
Not only do the islands boast picture-postcard beaches, coral-fringed islands, translucent waters and endless sunshine, the "tax-light" islands have a distinctly ritzy feel.
Be sure to pack the platinum cards and wads of cash if you plan to drop anchor at Paradise Island or Nassau -- the nightlife, casinos and duty-free shopping are sure to burn a hole through even the most well-lined pocket.
The Maldives
Set in the middle of the Indian Ocean and crossing the equator in two neat rows lie the idyllic atolls of the Maldives.
More than 1,100 coral islands formed around 26 circular atolls make for a breathtaking sight and the remote locale is perfect for publicity-shy celebs wanting to avoid prying paparazzi.
Not only have Beyonce and Jay-Z been spotted sailing around the islands on a private yacht but actors Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes also spent their honeymoon here in 2006 ... and it's easy to see why.
Famous for its cobalt blue waters and exquisite reef lagoons, this string of islands is a secluded and jaw-droppingly beautiful setting for any romantic couple.
The vibrant-colored reefs are not only home to an amazing array of sea-life, but protect the islands from the wind and waves of the vast ocean.

With the discovery of billions worth of treasure in the Sree Padmanabha Swamy temple cellars touching an emotional chord among Hindus

With the discovery of billions worth of treasure in the Sree Padmanabha Swamy temple cellars touching an emotional chord among Hindus here, the Oommen Chandy government may have found it politically expedient to ensure the state keeps off the wealth and allow it to remain with the shrine.

"No government will have the guts to do anything else that hurts the sentiments of the majority community. The Congress-led United Democratic government is particularly vulnerable because it is seen as minority dominated," said political commentator B R P Bhaskar.

Emerging from a high-level security meeting on Sunday, Chandy made it clear that the treasure will remain in the temple and that the government will take steps to ensure its security.

The news of the treasure find has brought Hindu organizations like the Nair Service Society (NSS) representing the Nair caste and the Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana Yogam (SNDP) representing the Ezhavas on a common platform, something that has rarely happened in a long time.

Opposing proposals that the wealth be used for public welfare, NSS president P K Narayana Panikker said, "No one can claim the treasures dedicated to Sree Padmanabha Swamy by the erstwhile rulers. It should be kept intact in the temple and given adequate security."

The outspoken SNDP general secretary Vellappally Natesan went a step further and threatened mass suicides if the government tried to take over temple property. "Only Hindus and the royal family which zealously guarded the wealth have the right to decide what to do with it," he said.

The BJP echoed their view and said it would not allow the government to even touch a single penny from the treasure.

"It belongs to the temple and should remain with the temple," party state president V Muraleedharan said and welcomed the stand of the NSS and SNDP.

Even the CPM appeared to be going with the popular mood with former devasom minister and CPM leader G Sudhakaran demanding that the wealth should remain with the temple. "What has been found is endowment which has been preserved for centuries. We have to appreciate the fact that it was safely secured till this time. The inventory should be taken and the riches stored in the shrine itself. It belongs not to the government of the King but the temple and should be utilized only as per provisions of the Hindu Religious Endowments Act."

He added that when a proposal to take over the temple had come up before the Left government, "I had opposed it and the maintained that the autonomous nature of the governing council should be maintained. The Devasom Board (Religious Endowments Board) is finding it difficult to run even the Sabarimala shrine," Sudharakaran said.

On Sunday, former Supreme Court judge justice V R Krishna Iyer had demanded that parliament should be used for poverty alleviation. Writer and critique Sukumar Azhikode opposed the view that it belonged to any particular community.

treasure trove of gold, diamonds and precious stones worth billions of pounds has been recovered from secret underground chambers beneath a 16th century Indian temple.

The dazzling hoard – which includes coins minted when the East India Company dominated trade with the sub-continent – has lain untouched for nearly 140 years.
The value of the collection has been estimated at up to £14 billion, with new discoveries still to be catalogued. Antiquarians described the treasure's worth as "astronomical".
Highlights include gold and silver bullion dating back to the Napoleonic era, precious stones wrapped in silk bundles, thousands of intricate pieces of diamond and emerald-studded jewellery.
The treasure is currently being retrieved from chambers beneath the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Hindu temple in Thiruvananthapuram, capital of the southern state of Kerala – which was formerly the feudal state of Travancore.
According to locals, generations of rich Travancore maharajas who built the temple more than four centuries ago secreted immense riches within six of its thick underground stone vaults, three of which had not been opened since 1872.

All were located deep in the recesses of the temple at the end of a dark and dangerously steep flight of stairs.
The chambers have now been illuminated and pumped full of oxygen to aid the seven-member excavating team which includes local religious officials, archaeologists and a representative of the current Travencore Maharaja, who is the temple's caretaker.
Officials involved in the recovery operation indicated that many items in the precious hoard were offerings made by devotees to the royal family.
They estimate the treasure to be worth about £10-£14 billion, but a detailed inventory was far from complete yesterday as new findings continued to surface.
Antiquarians said it would take much longer to conclusively evaluate the treasure as the historical value of the objects recovered would need to be assessed along with their "astronomical" intrinsic value.
Accounts state that besides more than 2,500lb of gold coins and precious stones, the booty recovered from vault 'A' included gold ropes; a 3ft 6in idol of the Hindu god Vishnu embedded with diamonds, emeralds and rubies, and an 18ft-long gold chain weighing more than 75lb to adorn it.
Official sources said vaults 'B' and 'E' remain to be opened and are expected to disgorge many more royal treasures.

 

Gadgets for the luxury lifestyle

The exclusive Salon Privé event, where the super-rich pay hundreds of pounds to see the latest supercars, is now playing host the latest pieces of kit from electronics giant Samsung, luxury phonemaker Vertu and a host of other electronics companies. All are keen to sign customers up to buy premium products that are as stylish as they are expensive.
Running at Middlesex’s Syon Park Hotel, Salon Privé was the venue for the launch of Samsung’s latest technology to make television portable. Integrating with the S2 mobile phone, ‘Smart View’ lets users watch whatever’s on their TV screen or blu-ray player on the phone. In due course it will come to other Samsung devices, and the company’s hope is that viewers will never miss another moment of viewing, and will also buy in to a suite of products made by Samsung.
The appeal of Privé, however, is access to a market of affluent consumers who have shown themselves over years to dislike high-street shopping but be perfectly willing and able to pay for products that are as well designed as they functional.
That’s part of the logic behind the Vertu mobile phone brand, which seeks to do for mobile phones what companies such as Rolex have done for watches – that means luxurious materials used in devices that are hand-made in the company’s Church Crookham factory. Remove the back and you’ll find the signature of the artisan who put your phone together.

The appeal of Syon Park’s luxurious setting is obvious, but Salon Privé also shows the lengths to which major brands now feel they have to go sell their most upmarket wares. Designer luxury has clearly spread well beyond the catwalks. Any improvement on the usual retail experience is surely to be applauded.

 

Prada, Samsonite and L’Occitane have chosen to stage stock market listings in Hong Kong.

Shoppers like Chen Zhuhang and Lin Xing are the reason that Prada, Samsonite and L’Occitane have chosen to stage stock market listings in Hong Kong.

Neither of the two men professed much interest in investing in the Italian luxury fashion house Prada, whose shares began trading amid much fanfare on the Hong Kong stock exchange Friday. But both were out shopping on the luxury-store-studded Canton Road in Hong Kong a few days ago.

“My favorite brands are Prada and Gucci,” said Mr. Lin, who comes from Fujian Province, on the southeastern coast of China, and was visiting Hong Kong. “Today, I bought a pair of shoes and a bag for myself from Gucci.”

His friend Mr. Chen was carrying a Gucci shopping bag containing a light brown leather purse that he had bought for his girlfriend for about 9,000 Hong Kong dollars, or $1,155.

Consumers like these have been flocking to shops all over Asia.

Their spending power and tastes, and their willingness to show off their increasing wealth, are behind a sea change that has taken place in the global luxury industry over the past few years.

With the West struggling with weak economies, Paris, Milan, London and New York are no longer the dominant centers of global luxury spending. Increasingly, that center is shifting eastward, to booming cities like Seoul, Shanghai, Mumbai and Hong Kong, whose glitzy malls now easily rival Bond Street, the Champs Élysées or Fifth Avenue in terms of high-end shopping opportunities.

“We are positive that the Greater China region is going to be one of the most interesting markets for the future of the luxury industry,” Patrizio Bertelli, the chief executive of Prada, said amid a blizzard of camera flashes and jostling journalists and bankers at a ceremony for the listing of the company in Hong Kong on Friday. “This is a very important moment for our company, and it’s an accomplishment after many years.”

Prada’s decision to list in Hong Kong, rather than in Milan, where it has been based for nearly 100 years, is in part the result of a desire to tap into a deep-pocketed group of Asian investors — funds and wealthy individuals — who feel more comfortable putting their money in stocks listed here, and not in faraway Europe.

But it also reflects a desire to be closer to an area that is fast gaining significance for the luxury industry as a whole. For some luxury and consumer goods companies, the region now contributes a third or even half of global sales and earnings, a sharp increase from just a decade or two ago.

Many brands have responded with a rapid expansion of their store networks, turning what were once economic and fashion backwaters in China and South-East Asia into high-end shopping havens.

Take LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton, the biggest luxury group in the world. Last year it generated about €6.9 billion, or $9.7 billion, in revenue in Asia, where it operates more than 800 stores. That compares with €4.6 billion and 570 stores in the United States.

Ermenegildo Zegna, the Italian menswear company, which opened its first shop in Beijing in 1991, has more than 70 stores in Greater China — mainland China, Hong Kong and Taiwan — now Zegna’s biggest international market.

Prada has lagged behind others somewhat in terms of expansion in mainland China in recent years. But about half the company’s 319 outlets around the world are in the Asia-Pacific region, more than a dozen of them in Hong Kong.

Prada, whose handbags and Miu Miu dresses can set shoppers back more than $1,000, plans to open dozens more, using some of the proceeds from its $2.1 billion stock market debut.

Market nervousness about the protracted debt crisis in Greece and the world’s economic growth prospects meant that Prada’s debut, and that of the luggage maker Samsonite earlier this month, did not raise as much money as those companies had hoped for.

London’s Attractions

Ah, London Town! Home of the Queen, Chelsea FC, Sherlock Holmes… and of course, millions of tourists every year. So how best to make the most of your London experience? With thousands of things to, see, eat and try, it’s important to stay organised…and to remember that when it comes to deals it isn’t just cheap theatre tickets London has to offer.

To that end, simply read through this handy list of must-dos we’ve compiled for you.

For the refined at heart (or romantics), you simply must try high tea at Claridges. Mouth-watering, indulgent and very English, this afternoon treat is perfect for people with a sweet-tooth. With sandwiches, scones, cakes and a selection of 30 different teas, there's enough to spoil even the most picky of people, so it’s best to wear something loose-fitting but fabulous enough for the hotel’s luxurious, Art Deco-inspired surroundings.
For those with a strict budget, don’t fret, there’s plenty of things to do that don’t cost a penny. Most museums and galleries are free (although steer clear of the gift shop!), and there’s plenty to choose from; for example, the Wallace Collection, Natural History Museum and the Horniman Museum to name a few.
London has an impressive sporting history, with many world-famous venues dotted around the city. Take out a London Pass, allowing you to visit many of the famous stadiums; including Wimbledon, Crystal Palace, and Lords.
Music lovers will relish a visit to the iconic Abbey Road studios. As the birthplace of many classic albums and soundtracks (including the Harry Potter scores, Freddie Mercury’s ‘Solo Collection’, and Pink Floyd’s ‘Dark Side Of The Moon’), this is a must for music buffs. The iconic zebra crossing outside also deserves a visit, having been the star of the Beatles ‘Abbey Road’ album cover; thousands of fans every year flock to pay homage and recreate that famous pose.
For the bold of heart (and stomach), visit the London Dungeon. This museum/theme park/performance area has some of the most ghoulish attractions in London, including the Blood & Guts Surgery and the Extremis Drop Ride; best to visit this one before lunch.
Fashion-conscious tourists can indulge their passion on Oxford Street. One of the most famous shopping districts in the country, Oxford Street has pretty much every high-street store imaginable, including several flag-ship branches. For a more up-market experience try Harrods; this famous department store claims to sell anything your heart desires, and is the last word in London luxury.
If you need to escape the city and catch your breath for a moment, try one of the many parks. Hyde Park is known for its beauty and the attractions on offer, including the Rotten Row riding track and Serpentine Lake. Regent’s Park is great for sports facilities, and comes with an open-air theatre for the warm summer evenings. Richmond Park is best for animal lovers, playing host to around 650 wild deer and many species of bird.
It can’t have escaped your notice that London played host to a rather special wedding this year. Britain’s Royal Family is probably the most famous in the world, and you can get into the spirit of things by visiting many of the attractions traditionally associated with them: Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and Kensington Gardens.
If you’re in need of pampering, try Spa London in Bethnal Green. These old Turkish Baths offer a number of budget spa experiences, including massages and make-up application lessons for just £20.
Foodies will be spoilt for choice in London. Try Archipelago in West London for some exotic flavours (including kangaroo, gnu and zebra). For those of a vegetarian persuasion Rootmaster in Shoreditch is perfect for you. If you have a sweet tooth, Scoop in Covent Garden has every flavour, texture and type of ice cream imaginable; for some truly indulgent dining.

The great thing about London, too, is that the popularity of the city means that plenty of organisations – take Kelkoo Select as a prime example -- offer deals, discounts, and bundle packs, so that visiting one of the world’s best cities isn’t only interesting, diverse and memorable, but cheap too.

 

a charter on behalf of a wealthy fashion magnate who planned to use the 112-passenger vessel to provide accommodation for friends and business associates during the Games.

When luxury cruise ship SeaDream I was berthed alongside HMS Belfast at Tower Bridge a few weeks ago, there were hopes that its sister, SeaDream II, would be in the Thames next year for the London Olympics.

A yacht broker I spoke to was confident he would be able to agree a charter on behalf of a wealthy fashion magnate who planned to use the 112-passenger vessel to provide accommodation for friends and business associates during the Games.

The deal appears to have fallen through, because Travel Weekly reports today that SeaDream's planned visits to the UK and the Norwegian fjords next year, before and after the Olympics, have been cancelled.

Company president Bob Lepisto is reported as saying that failure to secure an Olympic charter was a key factor in the decision. "We will now have two Black Sea itineraries, as well as multiple Croatia and Greek island cruises," he said - adding that the company has more demand for charters in the Mediterranean than they can meet.

Travel Weekly claims that fees for berthing ships in the Thames during the Olympics have "sky-rocketed, making it uncommercial for lines to base ships in the Thames as had been hoped." They say Azamara Club Cruises have yet to confirm that one of their ships will be brought to London.

The German ship MS Deutschland, operated by Peter Deilmann, will be based in West India Docks and is offering three nights' accommodation for £4,336 per person.

However, Port of London Authority spokesman Martin Garside told me they expect a number of ships in London for the Games, with berths at Tower Bridge, Greenwich, Tilbury and Northfleet, and also in the Royal Docks and West India Docks.

He denied fees were being raised. "All PLA charges on the tidal Thames - ie pilotage and conservancy charges, berthing fees, use of the 'Welcome' floating passenger terminal - will be the same as normal."