Harry kissing Charles – Copyright: Geoff Pugh for the Telegraph

2. If you haven’t listened to the superb Radio 4 series Cabin Pressure by comedy writer John Finnemore then you are one of the luckiest people I know as you have all that joy and hilarity ahead of you. Starring Benedict Cumberbatch as the private airline’s only (and very uptight) Captain Crieff, Roger Allam as the deliciously sarcastic First Officer Douglas Richardson, Stephanie Cole as the divorced lady who runs her own 1 plane airline (received as part of a divorce settlement) and  writer John Finnemore as a brilliantly cheerful idiot, this oddball crew fly its listeners around the world. You’ll laugh the whole way to Ibiza…

3. As it happens, to fly from London to Ibiza by private jet it’ll take you around 2 hours and can cost as little as £9,000 (all in) in a Citation CJ2. This business jet, which seats 6-7 passengers, would therefore cost as little as £1,500 per passenger. Not bad considering you walk straight across the tarmac onto your jet, bypassing all the frustrating queues and searches of commercial airlines… Not bad when you think how much less frazzled but how much more happy you will be when you get there…

4. We couldn’t do a list of random loosely-connected facts about flying without including the beloved Jimmy Stewart who gained his private pilot certificate in 1935 and then a commercial pilot certificate in 1938. Stewart often flew across America to visit his parents in Pennsylvania using the railroad tracks to navigate by and lead him home.

Considered a brilliant pilot, he along with the wonderful musician/composer Hoagy Carmichel (remember the piano player in To Have Or Have Not with Bogey and Bacall? – ‘Just put your lips together and blow’) they teamed up with other Hollywood celebrities and invested in a pilot-training school called Thunderbird Field which became part of the US Army Air Force and trained more than 10,000 pilots during WWII. As ever we salute his memory.

5. Releasing a DVD of his Wings tour recently, Paul McCartney opened up on his life on Private Jets with his family in 1976. In a photograph taken at the time, at first glance the picture looks like a regular family having something to eat together in a very relaxed way, with Linda balancing a tray on her lap while Paul strums away at a bass guitar next to daughter Mary. The only thing odd about is that they are all aboard their private jet, flying across America. Do we all wish we could be so lavishly Boho? Probably.

6. Andy Murray booked a private jet between Madrid & Rome so that he has more time to relax. Um. That’s about as exciting as it gets.

7. If you don’t know that the rumoured-to-be-pregnant-again Beyoncé has hired Alan Sugar’s reputed £18.5 million private Jet we guess you must be spending too much time deciding what to wear to wow the stars at the Formula 1 Grand Prix crowds at Monaco this coming weekend. (We figured you didn’t need to see another pic of Beyoncé, so we’re giving you Steve McQueen modelling the divine Tag Heuer Monaco watch in 1969 because it’s just so….gorgeous.)

8. Even though it is thought to be the wealthiest country in the world, you can’t fly by private jet to Monaco. Or by commercial jet either. At around 3 miles long by 1 mile wide there simply isn’t room for an airport in the teeny country. You can, however, charter your private jet into Nice, or Marseilles and then fly along the coast of the French Riviera by helicopter. Or of course you can sail into the port on yer Daddy’s yacht, waving the family flag.

9. Prince William and wife Kate have flown on budget airlines twice in the last year or two. There’s posh.

10. An America called Michael Fay passed himself off as a commercial airline pilot, flying for a Libyan Airline and landing the planes at Gatwick. After failing to turn up at court earlier this month to face the charges the former US Air Force Pilot is now believed to have taken flight. Civil Aviation Authorities and overseas law enforcers are working to bring him back to the UK. Catch him if you can.

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The race every Formula 1 driver dreams of winning, the Monaco Grand Prix is the slowest, the hardest, and the most glamorous of all the Formula 1 races.  Widely regarded as one of the top 3 races in the world along with the Indianapolis 500 and the 24 Hours of Le Mans, Monaco’s Grand Prix is an experience not to be missed.

Hay bales and fishing boats at the Monaco Grand Prix

Reaching legendary proportions due its dangerous corners, the Formula 1 Grand Prix has been won in the past by Formula 1 heroes like Shumacher, Senna, Prost and ‘King of Monaco’ Graham Hill, not forgetting its first winner back in 1929 – a Brit called William Grover-Williams in a racing-green Bugati….

Renault girls in the pit – (c) Batchelor

The Difficulties

Famous for being set in a tiny but incredibly wealthy and glamorous royal principality, racing through Monaco’s unforgiving streets is – said F1’s Nielson Piquet – ‘like riding a bicycle around your living room’.

There has only been one fatality in Monaco (the terrible crash that burst into a raging fire and killed Lorenzo Bandini in 1967) but it is still widely acknowledged that a small error on this unique race track can be fatal.

Strategies for the Monaco Grand Prix are regularly thwarted due to the cars often running in slow traffic losing time, and the fact that the narrow track, lined with barriers can choke up if there is accident debris. Also the circuit is unlike any other being fed through a town rather than purpose built. This means that the way cars run here cannot be compared to the way they will run on any other F1 track.

The Exciting Bit

At Monaco there are two short straight sections, no high speed corners, the lowest average lap of the season is 100mph and the only possible place to overtake is on the straight between the tunnel’s exit and the chicane on the seafront.  However problems can arrive on exiting the tunnel as it’s a very dirty line off in there – tyres can pick up dust and discarded rubber from tyres (a hazard of the Pirelli tyres currently featuring in F1) both of which contribute to the cars losing grip…

Jenson Button in 2012 – (c) Associated Press

A Bit of A Splash

Two drivers have crashed into the harbour during the Monaco Gand Prix: one of them was Australian Paul Hawkins during the 1965 race.

“At this point there was a bit of a furore at the chicane for Hawkins struck the wooden barrier at the entry and spun through the straw bales and over the edge of the quay and into the harbour. The Lotus sank to the bottom and the rugged Australian bobbed to the surface and struck out for shore, while boats went to his rescue.”

Join The Party

Like the Rio Carnival or the Cannes Film Festival the Monaco Grand Prix is a thrilling and much-loved annual event. Set between the mountains and the Mediterranean, this race attracts some of the richest, most famous and most talented people in the world. Clashing together in the pits, at the hotels and at the exclusive parties both on shore and aboard the billion-dollar yachts moored in the French Riviera’s deepest and most desirable marina, Le port Hercule de Monaco, Monaco Grand Prix goers all collectively contribute to a wildly exciting weekend.  They look good too…

Monaco Grand Prix / Copyright: Davenport / xpb.cc

Party Time

The Amber Lounge Monaco is the Grand Prix’s most glamorous destination and where you find royalty minglying with sporting stars, iconic artists, global fat-cats and Hollywood big-wigs.  Held over three nights at the Le Méridien Beach Plaza Hotel you are at the heart of the world if you are here on Friday night during the annual charity fashion show. Especially this year as it is the Amber Lounge’s 10th annivesary and is raising money for The Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund to help raise money for hospitals in South Africa.

Get On Board

At time of writing it is still possible to buy tickets for the Grand Prix. You can fly to Nice or Marseilles by private jet charter and then a private helicopter charter can fly you along the beautiful coastline to the Monaco heliport. Other than arriving by yacht, this is the best way to arrive at one of the world’s greatest events. Fasten your seatbelt!

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Located on the idyllic island in the Indian Ocean the hotel line provides massive choice for finding the perfect setting for renewing vows. Combining the island’s abundant natural beauty with refined luxury, their properties represent the epitome of tropical paradise in the sparkling turquoise seas.

Offering bespoke renewal of wedding vows packages that have all the magic of an actual wedding, Beachcomber Hotels strive to ensure that every moment ashore this truly striking island is intimate and memorable. Whether it’s an extravagant celebration for friends and family alike, or just for the couples exclusively, Beachcomber guarantees an unforgettable experience. Their quiet dedication and determination to ensuring that you have the best experience you can possibly have on this second wedding-day will help you to remember why those first special promises were made to one another.

Beachcomber promise only one renewal of vows a day at all of their hotels, ensuring that this day belongs to you and you alone, and that it is the epitome of a special and intimate ceremony, just as it should be.

Organising this unforgettable experience with Beachcomber is a smooth and hassle-free process, owing to Beachcomber’s wonderful, hand-crafted packages for vow renewals: the Classic and the Luxury Renewal of Vows package.

Upon arrival at a couples’ resort of choice, a specialist vows planner is at hand to take care of all plans involved in the crafting of their special day, from the heavenly location, to the exotic fresh flowers and professional photography, allowing couples precious time to relax and soak up the beauty of Mauritius.

The Beachcomber team have specialist staff for the renewal of vows service, who work only at Beachcomber Hotels, ensuring that this day remains exclusive and unique, as couples etch their memories in the sand and renew promises to last a lifetime.

Hotels to choose from in Mauritius are the Royal Palm, the Shandrani Resort & Spa, the Dinarobin Hotel Golf & Spa, Le Victoria, Paradise Hotel & Golf Club, le Canonnier, Trou aux Biches Resort & Spa and Le Mauricia.

Everything is on offer for the bride and groom and their entourage to choose from: from pre-ceremony beauty therapies and relaxation treatments, to all the usual past-times available on an exotic island such as sailing or diving, snorkelling, hiking, water-skiing, yoga, walking and socialising. But it is golf and deep-sea fishing that really excel as pastimes here….

As the ocean is 708 metres deep one kilometre from the shore, Mauritius is a paradise for deep sea fishing because the species that surround the island include marlin, sharks, tuna and barracuda. The most prestigious deep sea fishing competition is the Marlin World Cup which is hosted in December by La Pirogue Hotel.

For golf fanatics their chance to play at the One & Only Le Touessrok Golf Course will be grabbed with both hands.  Located on its very own tropical island with a backdrop of green mountains and bordered by white sand, this is one of the most spectacular golf settings in the world.  You can see the ocean from all 18 holes, and with 9 lakes in total and a number of holes requiring tee shots across little coves to the fairways it is a challenging course for advanced players but still  a great fun place to play for the average golfer. Just as  Bernard Langer designed it to be.

With French, Oriental and Creole influences, this cosmopolitan island’s cuisine is exquisite too. So why not let us fly you in your private jet to your private paradise….

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For those lucky enough to be going this year AirMayfair recommends the following milliners:

Jane Taylor  – Worn by royalty, aristocracy and rockistocracy, we all want to look like Kate Moss in this Jane Taylor Peddle straw large soft-brim summer hat. www.janetaylormillinery.com

(c) Tim Walker/Love Magazine

Gina Foster – sells from a tiny shop on teeny tiny ever-so-shiny Kensington Church Walk near High Street Kensington, London W8. Go and see her. You will have a wonderful time and also get lured into all the other tiny beautiful boutiques in the ivy-clad back streets of Kensington. www.ginafoster.co.uk

Lock & Co – 6 St James’s, London W1. Buying a shop at Lock & Co is a quintessentially British experience. For the ladies….trying on hats upstairs will make you feel as beautiful as Audrey Hepburn  even if you look like Eric Pickles. www.lockhatters.co.uk

Eliza Dolittle gives the game away when she gets too excited at Ascot in My Fair Lady

Rellick – vintage shop at Golborne Road where Kate Moss, Anna Friel and all the other cool chicks who like to rock an authentic retro vibe find some great pieces. You might not find a hat there but oh you’ll have sooo much fun. www.relliklondon.co.uk

Ilda di Vico, Sunningdale, Berkshire.  Ilda is a glamorous Italian with a hat-shop in one of the wealthiest areas of the commuter-belt, just a short classic-car ride from Ascot. Doesn’t need much decoding does it?  www.ildadivico.com

Ascots Rules For The Ladies (taken from all the enclosures)

Ladies are kindly reminded that formal daywear is a requirement in the Royal Enclosure, defined as follows:

• Dresses and skirts should be of modest length defined as falling just above the knee or longer.
• Dresses and tops should have straps of one inch or greater. Strapless, off the shoulder, halter neck and spaghetti straps are not permitted.
• Jackets and pashminas may be worn, but the dresses and tops underneath should still comply with the Royal Enclosure dress code.
• Trouser suits are welcome. They should be full length and of matching material and colour.
• Hats should be worn; a headpiece which has a base of 4 inches (10cm) or more in diameter is acceptable as an alternative to a hat.
• Midriffs must be covered.
• Fascinators are no longer permitted; neither are headpieces which do not have a base covering a sufficient area of the head (4 inches / 10cm).

Ascot’s Rules For The Gentlemen (taken from all the enclosures)

Gentlemen are kindly reminded that it is a requirement to wear black or grey morning dress, which must include.

• A waistcoat and tie (no cravats)
• A black or grey top hat
• Black shoes

A gentleman may remove his hat within a restaurant, a private box, a private club or that facility’s terrace, balcony or garden. Hats may also be removed within any enclosed external seating area within the Royal Enclosure Garden. The customisation of top hats (with, for example, coloured ribbons or bands) is not permitted in the Royal Enclosure.

You can easily reach London or Ascot by private helicopter charter - but for Ascot book quickly before the landing slots are entirely used up. Have fun!

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The luxury hotel we’re visiting this week was immortalised as Hotel des Étrangers in F.Scott Fitzgerald’s Tender is The Night…

“On the pleasant shore of the French Riviera, about halfway between Marseilles and the Italian border, stands a large, proud, rose-colored hotel. Deferential palms cool its flushed façade, and before it stretches a short dazzling beach. Lately it has become a summer resort of notable and fashionable people.”

An artistic ex-patriat American couple – Sara & Gerald Murphy –   loved the hotel so much that they once rented it from June to August at a time when the French Riviera was unfashionable in the summer. Sara – a future Picasso-muse and her party-loving husband Gerald were the inspiration for the famously beautiful Dick and Nicole Diver in Fitzgerald’s jazz-age romance and as movers and shakers it was them who brought the fashionable crowds with them.

Nestling happily between Nice and Cannes, and with Monaco and St Paul-de-Vence nearby (all easily accessed via private charter), the Hotel du Cap  is situated on one of the world’s most beautiful coastlines…the fantastic and pristine Cote d’Azur. The once-private mansion set in 22 acres of exquiste gardens and pine forests has attracted some of the most influential, gorgeous, complicated and talented people in the world. While the hotel is sumptuous, some of the rariefied society who stay here prefer to take one of the 33 private cabanas that ribbon the cliffs from where they can enjoy the rustic simplicity of the old French Riviera, but with all the privileges that one of the world’s great luxury hotels offers on hand.

Eunice, Robert, Jack, and Patricia Kennedy, Cap d’Antibes, 1939.

From the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston.

The list of famous people who have stayed at the hotel in the early-to-mid 20^th century include all the usual suspects – from Fitzgerald, Hemingway and Marlene Dietrich, to (the newly abdicated and newly married) Duke & Duchess of Windsor, Joseph Kennedy and his family, and Winston Churchill. Liz Taylor and Richard Burton frolicked, romanced and sparked there…so did Joseph Kennedy and Marlene as it happens…despite their children being around  It is still favoured by film stars (especially during the Cannes Film Festival), intellectuals and the jet set, and it continues to delight and entrance its wealthy guests …

Carved out of the rock in 1914 the heated salt-water pool is the iconic image of Hotel du Cap. Here you can laze on your sun lounger or in the water all day long, watching the sun rise and set over the Mediterranean sea while the waiter refreshes your cocktails and brings you a delicious poolside lunch.

Private charter your own yacht via the Hotel or take up  jet skiing, sea kayaking, waterskiing, windsurfing, catamaran sailing, stand up paddle, banana, parasailing or scuba diving… There are also five gorgeous clay tennis courts in the middle of the parkland planted with pines, olive trees and palms but still near the pool and the rose garden.

For further relaxation parents will be pleased to hear that children can be signed up for afternoons at the Kid’s Club which from 2pm to 6pm will ensure that they have a great time with other kids and the Leaders. Adventures include tennis games, theme days, Hotel du Cap Olympics, treasure hunts, nature workshops and more. When you’re exhausted from all your adventures at the hotel – or a season’s jet-setting – you can enjoy all the treatments at the Wellness Centre, and recharge with personalised training sessions or yoga lessons. The beauty salon can ensure you look your best for evening cocktails…

The post Luxury Destination – Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc appeared first on AirMayfair.

Located on the captivating southern coast of Antigua, The Inn has an ideal beachfront location, sitting on the gentle slopes of   the south western tip of the island. The Inn is also just two minutes by complimentary water taxi from Nelson’s Dockyard and English Harbour, a buzzing area of Antigua with a variety of restaurants, bars and shops and a real community spirit. Here is the place where guests can sit with a coffee, soaking up the sunshine and the atmosphere in the day time, and then choose from a selection of fantastic restaurants in the evening. One of the most picturesque parts of Antigua, English Harbour blends history, charm and a relaxed atmosphere.

Set in 19 acres of tropical woodland, each of the 28 cabanas and suites at the property have been lovingly decorated by the property’s Italian owners. From a beachfront option to a poolside vantage point, The Inn at English Harbour offers spacious accommodation where guests will feel truly at ease. The high ceilinged airy guestrooms are a haven of white washed walls and floating canopies, flooded with natural light and effortlessly elegant.

Set within a colonial style building, the guestrooms are a short stroll to the infinity pool and private palm-fringed beach, dotted with palm trees and hammocks and offering spectacular views all the way to Montserrat. Each suite boasts a spacious, private balcony or veranda, a quiet spot to enjoy a drink, a book or watch the sun as it sets behind the infinity pool. The beach side cabana bedrooms are the ideal option for beach lovers, with the sand coming up to the door and the soft sound of waves in the background.

The Terrace restaurant, set in the gardens next to the original stone house of the property, provides an idyllic setting for an evening meal under the stars, where candle light and delicious international cuisine, with a local twist, combine to provide a memorable experience in one of the finest restaurants in Antigua. The relaxed Reef Restaurant, set on the pristine white sands of the private beach, is a laid-back day time option, for a healthy breakfast, traditional Caribbean lunch, a coconut or a few cocktails.

If guests can bear to pry themselves away from the infinity pool and beach, the two tennis courts in the gardens of The Inn at English Harbour are the place for a couple of games. Guests can then relax in the boutique spa, a peaceful sanctuary in which to re-energise with a variety of treatments in a tranquil setting. Here, massage lovers will enjoy herbal teas from the property’s very own spa garden, with natural treatments created by the resident spa expert, who mixes herbs, flowers and essential oils to create a range of spa treatments.

The private jetty at The Inn is the best place to enjoy the tropical fish of the Caribbean with a spot of snorkelling, whereas a kayaking trip from here allows guests to explore the bays nearby.

Nightly rates will start from around £330. Fly to Antigua direct from the UK by commercial or private jet.

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Sebastian Vettle and Red Bull seem an unstoppable force this year, but will they be able to nail consecutive championships or are we in for some surprises at the Circuit de Catalunya?  Situated only 12 miles (20km) North East of Barcelona this boomerang track’s accessibility makes it one of the most popular Grand Prix destinations for commerical and private charter fliers.

How Things Stand

Red Bull are rampaging at the top as ever with Vettel in pole followed by Lotus’ Kimi Raikkonen, then Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari with Alonso.

Red Bull – Vettle & Webber 

Events at the Malaysian Grand Prix mean that many are already looking forward to see how things pan out between Red Bull team mates Sebastian Vettle and Australian Marc Webber.  Vettle ignored instructions not to pass Webber so that he could win the Malaysian Grand Prix, but revenge is best served cold as well we know from Senna and Prost’s renown altercations.

(copyright – Formula 1)

McLaren – Perez & Button

Trouble is still simmering in the McLaren camp with the row between Perez and Button still on-going. Button has accused Perez of being ‘dirty’ and ‘dangerous’ on the Bahrain track and although they claim to have apologised to the team Perez has point blank denied that he apologised to Button.

Mercedes – Hamilton’s Progress

Meanwhile Mercedes are promising Hamilton a smoother ride next year as they claim they will already be half-way through building the 2014 Mercedes car by May this year. But Hamilton’s success since his departure from McLaren to Mercedes does seem to be proving that his decision to quit his former team was the right one to make. So far this season Hamilton has had two podium finishes and a pole position – so far so good. But will he be able to keep up the momentum? Perhaps, if Mercedes can sort out the rear tyre problem that has been plaguing them for the past few years…although Pirelli isn’t helping.

(copyright – Formula 1)

The Track

Barcelona is known as being a great track and the curtain-raiser on the European section of each year’s Grand Prix Championship. However because its corners make it an ideal testing ground for the grid’s new cars it is favoured as a winter-testing ground. This can sometimes mean that over-familiarity with the circuit can hinder the excitement of a race at Barcelona.

Modifications have been made over the years to try and cure this problem but with varying degrees of success. Overtaking during Grand Prixes seems to happen rarely on this track and only once, in 2011, has a pole sitter not won the race.

3 Memorable moments at the Barcleona circuit:

1. Sparks flew when Nigel Mansell and Ayrton Senna raced the entire length of the pit with just two inches to spare between them at 300kph. Mansell took the lead.
2. Michael Schumacher finished an incredible race there in 1994, finishing second despite having been stuck in fifth gear for most of the race. He had to adjust his driving technique in order to accommodate a broken gear box.
3. And at the turn of this century Mika Hakkinen was rocketing around the circuit on what should have been an easy victory lap but his clutch exploded leaving the McLaren creaking to a halt just 5 corners from the chequered flag.

Dates

Practice and qualifying sessions will take place on the Friday 10 May 2013 – Saturday 11 May 2013 before the big race on Sunday 12 May 2013.

The post AirMayfair Sports – Formula 1 Grand Prix 2013 appeared first on AirMayfair.

For all you wanna be astro-tourists out there you will be delighted to hear that yesterday in Mojave, California, Virgin Galactic, the world’s first commercial space line  completed the first rocket-powered flight of its space vehicle, SpaceShipTwo (SS2). Seen as a crucial milestone in the craft’s development, the success of the test means that Virgin Galactic can realistically aim to supply galactic space travel to paying passengers in a few years.

Richard Branson’s company Virgin Galactic has already accepted more than $70 million in deposits from around 580 individuals who are happy to pay premium prices to fly into space.

The new spaceship (SpaceShipTwo, VSS Enterprise) and carrier craft (WhiteKnightTwo, VMS Eve) have both been developed for Virgin Galactic’s vehicle fleet by Mojave-based Scaled Composites.

The craft are being built to carry six customers on suborbital space flights allowing for a gravity-free float-out-of-your-seat experience…not to mention incredible views of the planet from dark-space for tourist astronauts. Scientific and research purposes are also being catered for within the aircraft’s designs.

 “The first powered flight of Virgin Spaceship Enterprise was without any doubt, our single most important flight test to date,” said Virgin Galactic Founder Sir Richard Branson, who was on the ground in Mojave to witness the occasion. “For the first time, we were able to prove the key components of the system, fully integrated and in flight. Today’s supersonic success opens the way for a rapid expansion of the spaceship’s powered flight envelope, with a very realistic goal of full space flight by the year’s end. We saw history in the making today and I couldn’t be more proud of everyone involved.”

How It Happened:

• The test began at 7.02am local time when SS2 took off from Mojave Air and Space Port mated to WhiteKnightTwo (WK2), Virgin Galactic’s carrier aircraft.
• Piloting SS2 were Mark Stucky, pilot, and Mike Alsbury, co-pilot, while at the WK2 controls were Virgin Galactic’s Chief Pilot Dave Mackay, assisted by Scaled’s Clint Nichols (co-pilot) and Brian Maisler (Scaled’s flight test engineer.)
• Approximately 45 minutes into the flight, reaching 47,000ft altitude, SS2 was released from WK2.
• After cross-checking data and verifying stable control, the pilots triggered ignition of the rocket motor, causing the main oxidizer valve to open and igniters to fire within the fuel case.
• At this point, SS2 was propelled forward and upward to a maximum altitude of 55,000 feet.
• The entire engine burn lasted 16 seconds, as planned.
• During this time, SS2 went supersonic, achieving Mach 1.2.
• The entire rocket-powered flight test lasted just over 10 minutes, culminating in a smooth landing for SS2 in Mojave at approximately 8am local time.

Virgin Galactic President & CEO George Whitesides said “The successful outcome of this test marks a pivotal point for our program. We will now embark on a handful of similar powered flight tests, and then make our first test flight to space.”

In the coming months, the Virgin Galactic and Scaled test team will expand the spaceship’s powered flight envelope culminating in full space flight, which the companies anticipate will take place before the end of 2013.

(Information and pics from Virgin Galactic).

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Piccard had grown up in a family that loved ballooning and undersea exploration so it was a natural segue for him to get involved with several space flights from Cape Canaveral. He is a psychiatrist, a highly-respected lecturer and supervisor in Hypnosis, and a well-advertised free-spirit. One of the quotes attributed to him is “Welcome to those who believe in the power of dreams and who would like to join me in my exploration of life.”  Jones, ex-RAF, is a balloonist, is married a balloonist and so it is fair to say he knows about being in the air.

(copyright Reuters/Robert Galbraith)

In 2003 Piccard – and businessman and pilot André Borschberg – announced a project. In collaboration with Swiss-based École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne they were aiming for a solar-powered, long-range, glider named Solar Impulse. Their project would inevitably leverage aeronautical and solar technology. And with Piccard’s spirit behind it, the solar-powered plane would carry a message to the world that research and investment into renewable energies such as this one can bring significant technological advancement, create jobs and inspire the next generation. With other parties contributing financial and technical backing the plane became a European craft rather than just a Swiss one which was sort of a shame for the Swiss but great for the rest of us.

(copyright Reuters/Robert Galbraith)

By 2010 Solar Impulse had flown on various European flights and last year the HB-SIA protoype completed its first intercontinental flight – flying from Morocco to Switzerland with Piccard and Borschberg on-board. The plane is powered by around 12,000 photovoltaic cells (they generate electrical power by converting solar radiation). The cells charge the plane’s batteries meaning it can fly for 24 hours without using jet fuel. Solar Impulse’s massive wing span is the width of an average commercial airplane but only weighs about the same as an average family car. The only downside is that the craft is fragile and susceptible to damage in bad weather….

(copyright AP/Solar Impulse)

A global tour is scheduled for 2015 but the great excitement this year is that the plane is to begin the West coast to East coast flight over the United States… Partners such as Schindler, Solvay, Bayer MaterialScience, SunPower and Swiss Re Coporate Solutions must all be holding their breath as the flight is set for May 1^st.

While aviation currently has no choice but to use fuel Solar Impulse does at least hint at the possibilities that may lie in the future to help achieve the world’s agreed CO2 reduction targets. “From the very start of the project, we understood that our primary goal was to save energy”said André Borschberg.

Just by the excitement it creates wherever it goes, and due to Piccard and Borschberg’s philosophy Solar Impulse helps to provoke discussions and political awareness at the highest level, with the Presidents of the European Parliament and the Council of Europe, and the European Commission on board. “Our airplane is not designed to carry passengers, but to carry a message” says Bertrand Piccard.

We wish them well.

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In this glorious sunshine AirMayfair is longing for glittering turquoise seas, the smell of lemon and orange groves wafting through the air, fresh seafood drizzled in lemon and olive oil… the sound of the sea gently lapping at Fornillo beach…

If you have been there before then the Amalfi coast (Costiera Amalfatina) is one of those places you long to return to. As John Steinbeck put it way back in the glorious 50s when Southern Italy was just unfolding its charms to those fortunate enough to travel, it is ‘a dream place that isn’t quite real when you are there but becomes beckoningly real after you are gone.” The Kennedys gave this former fishing-village’s charms away to the world when they visited in the 1960s and made it a favourite destination for the international jet set.

(c) Benno Graziano

To reach Positano you drive along the Amalfi Drive, “the road with 1,000 turns.” The most vertiginous in Europe its terrifyingly steep but beautiful cliffs tumble down to the glittering Tyrrhenian Sea. Positano is possibly one of the most beautiful villages in the world, huddled as it is along the mountainous Amalfi coast. Its butterscotch, terracotta and pink orange-roofed houses layered like so many cakes, lead one down into the Bay.

But rigorous though the terrain may be, hundreds of stairs or scalinatella are here to help everyone  negotiate the hill-climbs. But don’t worry – there are plenty of things to refresh you along the way…beautiful shops full of handmade local products like linen, liqueur and sandals, pastry and coffee shops, staggering views, amazing churches and of course Positano’s most beloved landmark, the Duomo.

Fornillo Beach – though pebbly and crowded, is just in front of the town and is a wonderful place to watch the world go by or to sate your appetite (all those stairs are hard work!) by eating wood-fired pizzas, locally caught freshly-grilled fish and olives. From Positano it is easy to take a ferry to the island of Capri…can you think of a more glorious way to spend the day…

But some prefer the hills to the water and enjoy the challenges which following the ancient trails in the hills above Postitano presents. Hikers of all capabilities can enjoy routes that stretch from Agerola, Praiano, Positano and out to the mountains beyond. After the joyful but hectic summer scenes in Amalfi the mountains provide a blissful natural quiet in which to retreat.

A monastery near Positano has been turned into an amazing and beautiful hotel. Monsatero Santa Rosa has mesmerising views across the Conca dei Marini’s fishing harbour below and out to Amalfi and the Gulf of Salerno.

 The owner has collaborated with a local Neopolitan designer and strived to retain that sense of tranquillity that the nuns who once lived there enjoyed. They have also worked to ensure that the hotel gives guests the feeling that they are staying in a genuine Italian residence, imbued with the restrained but natural elegance and charm that Italians can excel at. This means that every suite is furnished with individual pieces, hand-picked by the owner Bianca during her travels through Italy.  With its infinity pool, spa and unbelievable setting on the Amalfi coast, this hotel should give you the very best you can get from life.

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A helicopter owned by air charter co Khorasan Cargo Airlines had to make an emergency landing in Logar province, Afghanistan late on Sunday due to bad weather reported a Khorasan Cargo Airlines staff member.

The helicopter is thought to have been carrying 8 Turks, 1 Russian and an Afghan in total. Officals have confirmed that the emergency landing was made in a Taliban-controlled area of Eastern Afghanistan, Azra which borders Pakistan. Passengers and pilots are all thought to be in good health and Turkish officals are said to be in urgent talks with Afghan officials.

It is a relatively frequent occurrence for a helicopters to suffer ‘hard-landings’ and crashes in the mountainous and notoriously difficult terrain of Afghanistan.

The air charter company in questions offer troop and cargo transportation as well as medical and civilian.  Khorasan flies Russian Mi-8 and Mi-17 helicopters as well as fixed-wing aircraft in Afghanistan.

The world is waiting for a swift and peaceful resolution to the incident.

CHILE – No More Pilots

Latin American magazine America Economia reports that the rapid expansion of large Latin American companies is pushing up demand for private airplanes and helicopters like never before. With the companies needing to fly their work force quickly, at short notice and often in considerable style, private air transport gives them everything they need. But there is one problem: there aren’t enough pilots.

Some companies are providing their own solution by hiring a pilot directly onto their payroll, with a competitive salary, and then buying their own jets. It is said that the air transport companies can’t compete. Pilots who need work might take note: inexperienced co-pilots are thought to be able to earn somewhere between $3,500 – $5,000 per month while an experienced pilot can look forward to enjoying around $12,500.

CHINA – Too Many Billionaires?

Bloomberg reports that President Xi Jinping’s austerity drive is being ignored by the mega-wealthy in China. Compared with just 27 ordered last year, customers are forecast to buy around 40 private jets this year. The figures come from Richard Koe, MD at Hamburg, Germany-based Wingx Advance Gmbh which is a business-aviation data company. The number of German billionaires may be frog-leaped by Chinese billionaires in the coming 12 months meaning China would climb to No 2 in the world…

As early as 2022 we may see China become the world’s third-biggest private-jet market  suggests Koe. He thinks Xi’s push against “flamboyant” spending will do little to deter the rising demand in the country.

PARIS - From Paris With Love

Music-recorder, producer, 21 Grammy award-winner and all-round money-maker Kanye West has reportedly spent about $100,000 total for at least three trips via private jet from Paris, France (where he’s currently working) to Los Angeles  to attend expectant mother Kim Kardashian’s doctor’s appointments. Sweet!

Kim – the mother-to-be and reality TV star – has also flown in a private jet to visit her beau in Paris so they can get some rest and relaxation together before she gives birth in July. They are reportedly hoping to have the baby in France, which means they’ll presumably fly the new Kardashian-West westwards home to the US.

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The city, with around 7,000 residents, sits along the southeast (upper) end of the Roaring Fork Valley. The fact that it is surrounded by mountain and wilderness areas on three sides: Red Mountain to the north, Smuggler Mountain to the east, and Aspen Mountain to the south makes it irresistible for sports and nature lovers alike.

Aspen has long had a reputation as a preferred destination for outdoor enthusiasts – including high-mountain hiking through lush aspen forests; summiting one of several nearby 14,000-foot peaks; mountain biking; serene road rides to places like the famed Maroon Bells; kayaking or rafting through rapids; paragliding from Aspen Mountain to the centre of town; rock climbing on Independence Pass; stand-up paddle boarding on nature preserves, and more – but town is just as vibrant away from the mountains and rivers that surround it.

Aspen was founded as a mining camp during the Colorado Silver Boom and named after the abundance of aspen trees in the area.  It boomed during the late 19^th century, declined into almost nothing til the 1950s and was then reinvented as a ski resort. It became such an appealing place to live that during the latter half of the 20^th century Gonzo journalist Hunter S. Thompson and singer John Denver both settled there, thus popularising it among the counterculture of the 70s as an ideal place to live. Hedonism and drugs became synonymous with Aspen but then the musicians and movie stars were inevitably followed by corporate executives who wanted a piece of the action.

All of these attributes mean that Aspen swells with talent during spring and summer, as world-class athletes move to town to train on local trails and rivers, and cultural organisations call in the big shots for art exhibitions, lecture series, special events, and festivals.

However, Aspen isn’t just for the pros: the cultured and the adventurous of all abilities and proclivities flock to town as the snow melts and the plethora of warm-weather pursuits become available. Sunset al fresco dining at world-class restaurants and shopping that satisfies even the most discerning fashionistas add to Aspen’s cosmopolitan flair.

Accommodation includes five-star resorts to chic boutique hotels, trendy mountainside hot spots to luxury apartments, family-owned bed and breakfasts to European-style hostels. Stay Aspen Snowmass, Aspen’s central reservation agency, streamlines the booking process, offering great advanced and last-minute deals on both accommodations and airfare.

Many people use private charter flights to get there as private jets can fly straight into Pitkin County Airport which is 4 miles from the centre of Aspen, and helicopters can of course land closer. But they try to make sure they fly during the day so that they get to appreciate the phenomenal Colorado countryside. The oft-cited local adage “you come for the winter, but stay for the summer” has never been more true than in 2013.

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If you feel like you need a spring clean then AirMayfair has found the most luxurious detox for our clients. Wherever you are in the UK, one of our helicopters or private jets can pick you up and set you down next to a gorgeous West Sussex holistic detox retreat.  Situated in eighteen acres of land in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the ten-bedroom, 19^th century manor house, overlooks the South Downs and is surrounded by woodland walks. So whether you want to tuck yourself away for a few days, or march out into deep countryside to get some fresh air and some fresh views, this is the perfect place to do it.

Specialising in serious Detox Diets, Weight Loss and Fertility Boosting Juice Programmes, a stay at the Simply Healing centre can be life-changing because – just for once – the entire focus of time spent there is spent on you. You, your body, your mind, your sense of peace, your well-being.

Six beautifully designed treatment rooms enable guests to enjoy a warm and nurturing space where they receive the highest quality treatments offered by caring, experienced therapists.  Simply Healing offers a holistic approach to all their treatments from Colonic Hydrotherapy and a variety of Massages to Body Wraps that help to achieve instant inch and weight loss to skin nurturing and toning, Facials and beauty treatments.

Simply Healing pride themselves on sourcing the very best local fruits and vegetables to create their unique juice combinations. They specialise in delivering personalised detox programmes which focus on boosting health, weight-loss, fertility and general well-being. The owner Vivien Kay, a renowned healer with years of health and wellbeing experience, was an early advocate of detox in this country.

Supported by Vivien’s own personal selection of freshly made fruit and vegetable juices which are offered five times a day, guests can tap into Vivien’s own philosophy that “a clean body creates a clean mind, and a clean mind creates a clean body.” Attracting guests from all over the world, Vivien sees it as her duty to nurture, care for and where needed, help to heal guests that come through her door.  She is just as likely to offer a cup of herbal tea, a warming blanket and a hug as she is to deliver some home truths.

Guests can also take advantage of a selection of beauty and pampering treatments such as holistic manicures and pedicures or ‘all about eyes’ and anti-ageing facials (either 1 or 1 ½  hour treatments) to ensure they leave not just feeling well but looking fabulous. Prices start from £1215 (inclusive of VAT) per person for the 5 day Essential Juice Detox Plan based on two sharing.

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Bad Hofgastein is a spa town south of Salzburg famed for its thermal waters. But it is also an exclusive ski resort and is part of Ski Amadae, a network of 28 ski areas and towns that combined make up the second largest ski area in Europe (860 km of downhill slopes / 278 modern ski lifts).  With reliable snow conditions until late April, guests can not only ski and snowboard but also do snowshoeing, winter hiking (over 100kms of paths to explore), ice skating, horse drawn sleigh rides and tobogganing. And you thought romance was dead!

Most of the runs in the Gastein ski areas (accessible with one ski pass) are challenging even for solid Austrians skiers apparently, and it is popular with the Ski Club of Great Britain.

Spring Into Action

The Gastein Valley is an area of outstanding natural beauty, and with The Grand Park Hotel Health & Spa as your base (more info about the hotel below), there is a wealth of outdoor activities to choose from. Once you have settled in after your private charter flight our top five recommendations include:

1. Kirmml Waterfalls – The highest falls in Austria and the fifth highest in the world. Pull on your hiking boots and climb to the top tier of the falls on a dedicated hiking trail.
2. Liechtenstein Gorge – Jump from the sight of water raging above ground to a breathtaking gorge carved out by water below ground. Great for lovers of natural landscape, wander along the walkways which cling to the sides of the chasm and gaze up at the roof of rock high above.
3. Stubnerkogel Suspension Bridge – You need nerves of steel for this transparent suspension bridge. At an altitude of 2,300m, it is the highest hanging bridge in the world and can be reached by the new Stubnerkogel lift. The bridge connects the lift station to a delightful mountain restaurant, well worth the nail biting walk along the bridge.
4. Llama Trekking! – These furry friends act as excellent hiking companions as you traverse the alpine environment. Saddle them up with your bags and enjoy a gentle hike up into the mountains where you can enjoy some hearty hill country cooking before heading back down into the valley.
5. Gipfelsee Fulseck – Barefoot Walking Trail – Kick off your shoes and join this new walking sensation. With 200,000 nerve endings in each foot, the motion of walking barefoot acts as a sensory overload. As you squelch through streams and tread through the soft grass, feel all your other senses heighten as you take in the beautiful mountain scenery.

The Grand Park Hotel Health & Spa is cunningly geared to appeal to spa goers and skiers, outdoor enthusiasts and serious well-being seekers.  While helping you with all the above activities the hotel also provides more gentle activities to augment your health and well-being.

Health & Well-being

The Grand Park Hotel Health & Spa has a world-wide reputation for helping with their clients’ health and well-being and advocates a holistic approach that focuses on the physical, mental and emotional health of its guests to promote lasting positive lifestyle changes and ‘healthy aging’. Many fly in on private charter flights to partake in the treatment programmes, including the FX Mayr programme (from May – August) and the popular TCM Retreats, are all supervised by a physician, embrace the natural environment as much as possible and the focus is on prevention as well as cure.  The hotel is particularly notable for its work treating chronic fatigue syndrome, respiratory and musculo-skeletal diseases.

Diet

Guests can also choose between the Grand Park Health & Spa five-course gourmet menu or the low-fat Grand SPA cuisine which offers carefully-balanced recipes free from gluten and lactose, and has a purifying effect on the body.  For talented Head Chef, Franz Huick, healthy food is both a science and an art.

Body

In addition to a host of health programmes, guests can supplement their stay with holistic and sport massages, relaxation therapies, Yoga, Qi Gong, aqua aerobics, gymnastics, meditation sessions, and beauty treatments in the hotel’s 2000 sqm Grand Spa.  The famous Gastein thermal water with a temperature of 44.3 degrees Celsius, springs from the “Elizabeth Spring” and flows directly into the Spa’s indoor swimming pool.

Guests can also visit the Gastein Healing Caves which are renown for their pain-relieving, inflammation-reducing and immune-boosting health effects.

Why not get yourself a total overhaul and fly directly into wellbeing at the Grand Park Hotel Health & Spa on a private charter flight? For more information visit  www.grandparkhotel.at or call tel. +43 6432 63560.

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The Private Jet market worldwide, 2013 – 2021 is estimated to be worth $260bn and represents 11,275 aircraft says Alan Perry, Chairman of MIU Events and organiser of this week’s Singapore Private Aircraft Conference and Expo (16 and 17 April).

If America and Europe continue to suffer economic downturn then the value of the private aircraft market worldwide will inevitably decrease, but regardless of what’s going on in the rest of the world, Asia is expected to make around $40 billion of private jet sales in the next 10 years. With aircraft industries capitalising on the way that Ultra High Net Worth Individuals like to buy aircraft as assets with their families or trading groups, and prefer new to pre-owned, these projected new sales will turn Asia into a market leader in the use and operation of private aircraft. Last month’s record order for 234 Airbus A320 aircraft from Lion Air of Indonesia underlines the growing significance of the SE Asian market, says Perry.

Middle East

Dubai is set to become the largest passenger airport in the world this year consolidating itself as the centre of international air travel and is taking advantage of the lack of infrastructure in SE Asia, India and China and their soaring markets. Dubai-based  Emirates now runs over 40 flights a day to India and continues to develop its route network to meet the demand from Asia.

On-Board

The cabin lighting solution HelioJet – the first joint development involving SCHOTT and Lufthansa Technik – is now offered in color as HelioJet TCS (True Color Stabilisation). A newly developed, innovative sensor technology ensures that the colours are always emitted in a stabilized manner by controlling all of the LEDs. This play with colors can be controlled using the cabin management system “nicemood” from Lufthansa Technik, for instance.

First installation is expected in an Airbus during summer 2013. This marks yet another important milestone for the two companies on the way to officially launching HelioJet.

(pic copyright – Schott)

“Light plays an important role when it comes to creating an atmosphere on board an aircraft that makes passengers and cabin crew feel comfortable,” says Dr. Plichta, Director of Transportation for SCHOTT Lighting and Imaging. ”With HelioJet, we have achieved our objective of developing an innovative lighting solution that offers guests the comfort they appreciate.”

Andrew Muirhead, Director of Innovation at Lufthansa Technic AG,  adds that passengers are not the only ones who will benefit from this new technology: “HelioJet requires only about a fifth as many light diodes as other LED solutions. This has a positive effect on the reliability, maintenance and costs and makes our latest development attractive for all airlines.”

Royal Helicopter

Tonight sees the airing of the Helicopter Rescue documentary featuring Prince William. Known in the RAF as Flight Lieutenant William Wales he said: “In this job if you have friends and you have guys you get on with, you’ve got to have some fun, you’ve got to have some laughs.

“At the end of the day you’re operating sometimes in some really dodgy and quite dangerous conditions, you have to rely on each other quite a lot and so getting to know each other, being a family is all part of that.”

Flight Lieutenant Wales has been serving with C Flight of 22 Squadron at RAF Valley on Anglesey since 2010. The show airs on tonight – Monday 15th April – on BBC One Wales at 20.30 BST.

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Sitting on an island on one of Udaipur’s four large man-made lakes, the Taj Lake Palace is one of the best located world-class hotels. If you haven’t heard of the Summer Palace in Udaipur then you must be new to the world of luxury travel. But AM is delighted to have the chance to tell you all about it as not many things give us greater pleasure than thinking about the beauty of Udaipur…

The Maharanas of Udaipur (also known as Mewar)  are among India’s longest-ruling rulers. One of the great draws of going to Udaipur is that this family have remained in an unbroken line since the eighth century A.D. so although much of their property is given over to the tourist industry, it is because of the tourism that they have been able to keep a hold of that history. Their palace is jaw-droppingly beautiful with just the right element of decaying grandeur to hold on to its world-renown glamour. And the family’s classic car collection – a mouth-watering display of early 20^th century bespoke vehicles including many customised Rolls-Royces – makes their palace one of the perfect set-off points for classic car rallies across Rajasthan.

All of this regal magnificence is just across the water from their former 18^th century Summer palace, which was built in 1740 as a summer retreat for the Maharana of Mewar and his court so that they could escape the extreme heat of city life on the lake edge by taking advantage of the lake’s cooling breezes. Situated in the middle of an island in Lake Pichola, the family – with their characteristic chutzpah and taste – turned the palace into the new Jag Niwas hotel in the 1960s, and then turned it over to Taj Hotels in the early 70s when it was reborn in its current incarnation as the Taj Lake Palace Hotel. And what a fantastic destination.

You get to the lake by first taking a little boat across the water. This short trip will give you a fantastic view of the lake and its surrounding buildings and mountains, and a real feel for the beauty of Rajasthan. If you arrive late afternoon you will be able to enjoy the lake shimmering golden in the setting sun while children splash on the water’s edge, birds swoop low across the water and bougainvillea petals float past. Bliss.

On arrival you are greeted by one of the many wonderfully attired staff, all of whom are eager to please you and yet are beautifully deferential and discreet. They will take you to the marble hall reception where you check in to the hotel and will be offered to choose from a stack of delicious strawberries dipped in chocolate to refresh you. (AM was often found wandering in and out of the reception area for no apparent reason…)

The palace is built around the edge of this little island leaving a beautifully large courtyard in the centre which revolves around its lilyponds. All of the rooms feel like you are living in a Rajasthani palace as many have hand-painted walls and marble floors. Many suites have private balconies, but all rooms and suites are quite modern with air conditioning and satellite television. But AM urges you to turn your back on the television (ALWAYS!) and to go and seek out the peace that staying on this special island hotel can give you.

The island is a wonderful place to relax after exploring the hurly-burly of central Udaipur. After a hard day’s sight-seeing take a swim in the palace pool and then change into your new dress or kaftan for cocktails as the sun sets. It’s so beautiful, you won’t feel like saying a word. Just breathe it in.

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The Rodeo Drive Committee has selected The Jet Age as its 2013 theme. To honour and celebrate Learjet’s 50^th anniversary, the famous Rodeo Drive Concourse d’Elegance is welcoming an example of the private jet as the first ever aircraft to appear on this world-famous street. Designed by Bombardier Aerospace, the world’s largest business aviation manufacturer, the Learjet is beloved by aviation enthusiasts, operators and owners world-wide and is sure to pull in the crowds.

A full-scale mock-up of the latest Learjet aircraft – the Learjet 85 – will feature as the centrepiece of Rodeo Drive which will also feature cars inspired by the Jet Age. The gorgeous aero-dynamic body shapes of cars from the 1950s and 60s will show how the jet age was represented in the optimism of the future by the inclusion of fin tails, chrome-plated steel grilles and white-wall tire applications.

Learjet have said that  “The Learjet 85 aircraft lives up to its nomenclature with its sleek Learjet lines, legendary performance, and blends the newest technology to deliver an aircraft that will redefine the midsize segment with the largest Learjet to date. With its stand up cabin and superior design, this jet will be able to seamlessly fly 3,000 nm (5,556 km) and with a maximum operating speed of up to M0.82 (470 kts, 871 km/h). It can link Los Angeles to Honolulu, and with its Bombardier Vision Flight Deck, the Learjet 85 offers pilots the most sophisticated cockpit in its class.”

The annual Father’s Day tradition features a wide variety of vintage and racing cars and motorcycles lining Rodeo Drive north from Wilshire Boulevard to Santa Monica Boulevard on Sunday, June 16 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Australia – Measure for Measure

The head of small airline Samoa Air has defended his revolutionary decision to charge passengers according to their weight.

Head of Samoa Air Chris Langton told an Australian radio station that it was the “fairest way of travelling”. Rather than just paying for a seat passengers will pay a fixed price per kilo (the price will very according to the journey’s length) – for both their body weight and their luggage. “There are no extra fees in terms of excess baggage or anything – it is just a kilo is a kilo is a kilo,” he said.

Although the airline only flies domestically and to American Samoa, it is thought that this idea could prompt other airlines to introduce the same policy.

“People generally are bigger, wider and taller than they were 50 years ago,” he said. “The industry will start looking at this. Anyone who travels at times has felt they have been paying for half of the passenger next to them.”

No mention has yet been made of how or where the customer ‘weigh-in’ would take place. But this might be a fast-track way to inspiring travellers to think twice before they open that second packet of peanuts…

China

Although take-off and landing infrastructure and low-altitude airspace (under 3,000 metres) is still restricted in China, it is being reported that private aircraft stores are popping up across the country. Beijing has just opened its first store where three planes were ordered during the first few days of its opening.

However it’s not just as simple as buying a car. The private jet purchaster must have an independent licensed aviation company to manage the plane and the Chinese Civil Aviation Administration’s tough criteria must be met.

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Framed by nine pure white sandy beaches that are decorated with the kind of coconut palms that sway prettily in the wind, and bordered by the kind of warm turquoise waters that set off your fabulous tan, this secluded 1,400 acre island is the favourite of fashionistas, royalty and rockstar-royalty for the very reason that its seclusion and rigorous entry criteria allow the island’s guests the freedom to be themselves. The paparazzi are ratted out before they even get a whiff of Mustique air!

The island’s reputation as a favourite hotspot for the elite was compounded when Princess Margaret, Countess of Snowdon and the sister of Queen Elizabeth II, built a beautiful residence there which she named Les Jolies Eaux.

(c) Lichfield

The island of Mustique is owned by the Mustique Company, a conglomerate formed of the island’s home owners. Many of the island’s 100 private villas are rented out. Pick your villa according to your own personal aesthetic preference and then choose what kind of food you want your fridge stocked with, what sort of menus you would like your personal chef to provide on a daily basis and the general theme of your meals.

There are a couple of hotels too – the five star Cotton House – also owned by the Mustique Company – and the equally luxurious Firefly which is privately owned. But you won’t be surrounded entirely by other visitors and will often find that on your shopping expeditions and evening strolls you’ll mix with the year-round Mustique population who mostly live in the villages of Lovell, Dover and Britannia Bay. Wildlife also inhabits the island including herons and tortoises and of course all the vast variety of fish that thrive on the coral reefs.

Of all Mustique’s beaches Macaroni Beach is perhaps the most famous but other beaches include Endeavour, L’Ansecoy, Lagoon and Simplicity. Days can be filled with all sorts of delights, like an early-morning dive around the reefs, followed by a champagne-and-lobster picnic served under the coconut palms on Macaroni beach and then a gallop across the sand after lunch. Or perhaps you fancy a long slow round of golf, followed by a massage in your villa overlooking the sea before taking a little disco-nap to prepare yourself for partying all night?

The Duke & Duchess of Cambridge took a well-publicised baby-moon here back in February so we don’t know whether they stuck to their usual routines of frisby, beach-vollebyall and water-skiing, or just lay down and soaked up the peace, as next time they’ll be parents. But luckily for them Mustique happily caters for children…  If the calm-wave beaches and pure white sands aren’t enough to keep the kids happy then they can go riding at the Equestrian Centre’s ‘Pony Camp’ or get tennis lessons, or go diving…and on and on the options go. At this luxury destination even Friday nights hold something special for kids as the Cotton House screens movies under the stars…. Pass the popcorn please.

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AirMayfair speaks from painful experience when we recommend that if you are prone to blubbing at movies, but need to impress the clients, head of state or work colleagues you’re meeting at your destination then do not – repeat do not – watch Out of Africa on your private jet or helicopter flight as you will arrive with a red water-logged nose and wet boggly eyes.

It starts with the famous words, spoken by Meryl’s character Karen Blixen: “I had a farm in Africa, at the foot of the Ngong Hills.” Lovers of the film who have seen it two or 3 times will start crying right there. You have been warned.

An Iconic Moment In Movie History

One of the most beloved moments in movie history is filmed in a 1929 yellow Gipsy Moth biplane. It features in Sydney Pollack’s beautiful 1985 homage to the book of the same name: Out of Africa. Based on the true story of a female Danish aristocrat’s adventures in early 20^th century Kenya, Meryl Streep and Robert Redford star as the movie’s hero and heroine. The Gipsy Moth, a popular type of aircraft since the 1930s, was arguably the 3^rd star of the film. The film won 7 Oscars and was nominated for a further 4.

For The Romance Of It All

If you don’t know the film here’s the quick rundown: Karen Blixen is a gorgeous but slightly wonky-nosed wealthy Danish aristocrat who is clearly too bright and independent to get herself a husband who can adore her without his being secretly affronted and appalled by how bright and independent she is. So she asks slightly-delicious cousin-aristo Baron Bror von Blixen-Finecke to agree to a marriage of convenience i.e. she gets respectability via a husband and he gets her money. Yep. That old chestnut.

Tired of cold old Denmark they head off to sunny Africa to start a dairy farm…. Except that Bror buys a coffee plantation instead. Without telling her. And then Bror gets more excited about the game-hunting than running the farm. As you would if you were his kind of guy. And then he gets caught out for his extra-marital affairs which were inevitable because he wasn’t in love with her in the first place… You can see where this is going…

Karen’s love for her errant unfaithful husband, and the long periods during which he leaves her alone gives Karen Blixen the solitude and thrust she needs to concentrate on building her coffee plantation and to have wild adventures with animals including a cat fight with a lion. She gets to love the local tribes people – the Kikuyu tribe – who seem to quite like her as well as she educates them, cares for them and employs them. (The fact that it was actually their land in the first place doesn’t come into this film much, so if you’re looking for an argument about that sort of thing you’ll have to go elsewhere… Alternatively you could sit back and enjoy the armchair Safari, and the amazing sights of the Maasai running through the sand, and all the pretty crystal and lace in the Blixen’s house instead).

Eventually Karen falls in love with an Englishman called Denys Finch Hatton who is the plane’s pilot. He eschews the European hunger for fine-living and property and instead prefers to be a free spirit on the African planes but in a non-hippie manly sort of way.  He even washes her hair using a jug of river water which shows us how tender, free and keen on clean women he is.

Somewhere in their adventures together the incredible shot of the 1934 deHavilland comes in. Denys flies down to pick up Karen. She runs towards the plane with all the Kikuyu, jumps on board and put son her flying goggles. He flies her low across the plains of the Kenyan Savannah, close to high waterfalls and swoops down above a vast lake, touching the wings of flamingos who turn as one body. Up in the clouds it’s clear that Karen is experiencing a real sense of painful ecstasy (because it’s evident from the tyre tracks on the ground that Man is coming to destroy all this natural beauty) and she reaches back to hold Denys’ hand. Denys puts his hand forward and – in a surprisingly touching moment – reaches for hers so that they can share this moment truly together.  Cue major blubbing and tissue exchange all round the cinema/sofa/bed or private jet plane seat (we did warn you).

Still Airborne…

AM won’t tell you how the film ends but readers might be interested to know that the plane – still-airworthy, still in excellent overall condition and still with a permit to fly – was sold at auction in Paris on February 6^th 2013 for £201,000. The winning buyer’s identity was not disclosed, but they did release one bit of vital information: that the plane would be returned home to Kenya. Need a tissue, anyone?

The post Runway Films – Helicopters, Planes And Private Jets in the Movies. This Week – Out of Africa appeared first on AirMayfair.

MB Aerospace, the International aerospace engineering group, has announced the completion of a secondary MBO. Washington-DC based private equity fund Arlington Capital Partners (‘Arlington’) are convinced that MB Aerospace’s strong growth signals a raft of significant opportunities and have committed to the secondary buyout which will provide significant funding for a planned series of acquisitions. Consequently Arlington, alongside the MB Aerospace management team, will take a majority stake in the business.

With manufacturing operations in the UK and the US, MB Aerospace, is also targeting a number of acquisition in the United States.  On completion this would see the group expand considerably from its current turnover of over $80m.

By providing supply chain integration services alongside the manufacture and repair of complex aero-engine components MB Aerospace can claim key names in the aerospace and defence industries as clients including Pratt & Whitney, Rolls-Royce, General Electric, Boeing, United Technologies, GKN, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Volvo Aerospace.

Craig Gallagher is MB Aerospace’s chief executive. He led the original MBO of the company via engineering group Motherwell Bridge in 2007. Gallagher will be Chief Executive Officer of the enlarged business, to be joined by Gregor Goodwin as Chief Financial Officer.

Mr Gallagher said: “This landmark deal represents a great vote of confidence in our US and UK employees and operations, as well as providing the group with significant opportunities for further expansion in the months and years ahead.

“Our vision of creating a truly world-class aerospace business focused on aero-engine components is developing at pace, with the acquisitions in the past 15 months of Gentz Aero of Detroit and Thomson Aero of Somerset, UK allowing us to further grow our manufacturing operations whilst securing significant remit extensions for our supply chain management services and complementary engineering support services.”

Mr Gallagher said the deal with Arlington represented a superb fit: “They already have extensive aerospace and defence experience and, as well as providing funding for future deals, their specialised global track record in our sector will be invaluable as we seek to expand further.

“We are excited about the opportunity to partner with Craig Gallagher and the rest of MB Aerospace’s world-class management team,” said Peter Manos, a Managing Partner at Arlington. “This deal creates a global platform with a unique focus on providing manufacturing, engineering and supply chain management services for mature and legacy engine platforms, and we believe the company’s strong growth prospects will be further enhanced with additional acquisitions.”

Craig Gallagher continued: “We see really exciting opportunities in the years ahead, as the global airline sector is expected to grow significantly over the next two decades, doubling from its current 20,000 aircraft by the early 2030s. This growth is being fuelled by the rising demand for travel in Asia coupled with the need of European and American airlines to replace ageing aircraft, dramatically increasing the demand for the wide range of world-class manufacturing and aftermarket services we already provide to some of the world’s biggest aviation players. The global installed base of gas turbine aero-engine derivatives is over 200,000 units across various aerospace, defence and industrial applications and the majority of this fleet is expected to be growing and in service for several decades to come.”

“Key sections of the global aerospace supply chain were designed several decades ago and have become fragmented along commodity lines. MB Aerospace performs a critical role in ensuring part availability for aftermarket engines by sourcing components from robust sources and underpinning our supply chain remits with high-skill and high-performing manufacturing facilities for legacy and low-volume components.”

Phenomenally Chic

If you are determined to make a great impression and travel in style,  you should consider chartering a new Phenom 300 with the registration D-CHIC which has just come on the charter market. Surely the foxiest private jet we’ve seen in a long time…

The new Phenom has been given an interior worthy of a James Bond shoot. Equipped to the highest standards, the fast jet is fitted out with six wide white leather seats and a modern galley area as well as a state of the art bathroom. The bespoke interiors and fast speed will compound its reputation as a leader in its class.

If you want to impress colleagues or clients on a golf or skiing trip then you’ll be pleased to know that not only does D-CHIC have smart interior features but the baggage compartment is the largest possible for this size of aircraft. This makes it perfect to hold all your golf and skiing kit. Fishing rods too?

The post AirMayfair Aviation News 26.3.13 appeared first on AirMayfair.

For travellers who get a kick about how old the hotel they stayed in is, this building shold give you a buzz: it’s Georgian, dating back to 1718. Four storeys high, three houses wide, with the long bay-windows typical of the Georgian era, it is named after master of English prose William Hazlitt who died in the house in 1830.

Beloved by writers, film, fashion and media world this wonderful hotel in the centre of London gives travellers pretty much exactly what the intelligent traveller should want from a stay in the Big Smoke, or any city for that matter: beautiful surroundings, fantastic service, serious wow-factor, a room to remember, great staff and a central location from which to walk out into the city from. All the rooms are unique.

Walking into Hazlitts is like walking into the past. Panelled walls surround antique furniture. Features and furnishings include 18^th century fireplaces, gilded mirrors, Georgian four-poster beds, silk curtains, original Georgian folding shutters, Persian rugs, roll-top baths and even a Victorian bathing machine!  The age of this place is half of its charm. Having stayed here you will fondly remember the way the floorboards in your suite sloped and creaked…

The bathrooms have restored period plumbing fixtures and fittings, with either a free standing bath or shower. Wherever you are staying at Hazlitts, all rooms are air-conditioned and have complimentary Wi-Fi, flat screen television, mini bar, safe and antique desk.

There is no restaurant at Hazlitts – situated in the middle of Soho it seems a little unnecessary! But they serve delicious breakfasts in your room with croissants baked fresh every morning which you can eat in your pyjamas as you watch the world hurry by out on Frith Street,  or you can have your breakfast served to you in The Library.

Hazlitt’s heritage is something its staff and guests take enormous pleasure in. The hotel is stuffed full of paintings, writers who stay there always leave a signed copy of their book and many a famous author, actor and model has sat by the fire in The Library.

The rooftop of the hotel has been used for numerous photo shoots and if you want to relax and have a drink with your friends there is also an honesty-bar.

Meetings can be accommodated in The Wardrobe. Originally a safe for aristocrat’s valuables, it is now a panelled meeting room able to hold up to 12 people at a time. Naturally state-of-the-art facilities are available but discreetly hidden among antique furnishings so as not to destroy the aesthetic integrity of the room when not needed. Amenities include a retractable screen and projector and Blu-ray player. The room comes with complimentary Wi-Fi access. Refreshments are available as requested.

The Wardrobe

AM knows from experience that Hazlitts do everything they can to ensure that their guests have a wonderful stay. Whether you want restaurant bookings, a helicopter pleasure flight, a private jet to fly you to the continent or the number of a great bootmaker, Hazlitts can organise them for you. From the texture of your morning croissant, to the plumpness of your pillows on your four poster bed, everything at Hazlitts is as it should be: beautiful and luxurious.

The post Luxury Destination – Hazlitts Hotel appeared first on AirMayfair.

Unrecogniseable from its historical past as an area of nutmeg, pepper and fruit orchards in the 1900s, Orchard Road has become the major commercial area of Singapore. It is a world-renown tourist attraction in its own right and is also the official residence of the President of Singapore, with a family of international embassies in a 1 mile radius.

On the north side of Orchard Road are the 183 acre Botanic Gardens which host the National Orchid Garden. With 1,000 species and 2,000 hybrids of orchids this is surely one of the world’s most romantic destinations…if you’re an orchid lover!

Orchard Road itself hosts numerous prestigious fashion and beauty shops, quirky boutiques, restaurants, coffee houses, cafes, nightclubs and hotels. In its premium location, the St Regis Singapore towers over the hustle and bustle of Orchard Road and stands as a pinnacle of luxury and as an oasis of sophisticated calm.

Home From Home

For well-heeled socialites St Regis is a home-from-home when in Singapore. Whether returning from one of the many near-by embassies –– or from a day’s shopping which can prove challenging in the tropical heat –  they know that they will be lavished with the kind of luxury, discretion and elegance that has become synonymous with the St Regis brand worldwide.

Rooms

5 star Life is privileged on the 20^th floor. Bespoke luxury rules in the exquisite Penthouse Rooms which give breathtaking views of Singapore.  Throughout the hotel a variety of suites are available – all with suitably cosmopolitan names such as Manhattan, Metropolitan, Astoria…

The suites are comprised of a bedroom with a separate living room allowing for spacious living, but should you have fellow travellers who need separate accommodation, there is the option to transform your suite into a spacious two-bedroom retreat as the luxury suites can connect to a Grand Deluxe Room.

The Astoria Suite has entrancing views of the Singapore Botanical Gardens – which for some is the main attraction in Singapore – as well as the prestigious Embassy district.

The Presidential suite – the highest of them all of course, on the 20^th floor – is the epitome of luxury and comfort. Decorated with art by some of the most celebrated artists in the world, including Picasso and Gehry, it also gives you some of the best views available in Singapore today (as well as those seen when flying in on your private jet!).

Food

There are dining experiences to suit every palette and every mood at the St Regis but all of them give guests the sense of faultless sophistication that the hotel exudes.

Yan Ting is fine Cantonese cuisine prepared with the freshest seasonal ingredients while The Brasserie Les Saveurs produces an Asian inspired contemporary French cuisine using products from the finest producers in the world. Both are a casually elegant dining experience.

Le Brezza is good old tratorria-style Italian which should bring out the best in you as Le Brezza is situated on the poolside terrace.

The Astor Bar is named after St Regis founder John Jacob Astor IV and is famed as the venue of choice for the world’s movers and shakers who find themselves in Singapore for cocktails.

Decanter is the wine bar for those who prefer a more contemporary ambience and there are 1,000 international wine vintages available.

For the celebrated St Regis Champagne Brunch you had better book in advance! But wherever you dine you will find that your pleasure in dining there is due to the finer details. Nothing has been overlooked and you will find it difficult to fault the superb restaurant butlers who will meet your every need.

Spa

The St Regis Singapore spa provides the level of blissful treatments you would expect from a 5-star hotel in an exotic location. There is an extensive menu of treatments to choose from ‘inspired by holistic traditions from ancient Rome to ancient China’.

The treatments may be inspired by ancient civilizations but the St Regis is a contemporary hotel in every way, combining the hunger for modern-living with elegant luxury. Prepare to be spoiled.

The post Luxury Destination – St Regis Singapore appeared first on AirMayfair.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland have added another EC145 helicopter to its all-Eurocopter fleet. This purchase clearly enforces Eurocopter’s reputation as the popular manufacturer of law-enforcing rotary-wing aircraft in the British Isles and the police will no-doubt ensure that the fleet is buffed and ready to serve during the G8 summit to be held in Northern Ireland in June.

(copyright – Eurocopter)

Eurocopter UK affiliate offers a full range of products and services for rotary-wing aircraft operators in the law enforcement, military, medical airlift and private and business aviation sectors. State of the art high tech equipment is designed and built into the helicopter at Eurocopter’s Oxford plant, but maintenance, logistical and technical services are kept to strictly local attention in Northern Ireland.

Markus Steinke, managing director of Eurocopter UK says “With this new EC145 order, Eurocopter has further reinforced its position as the preferred provider of rotary-wing mission capability for law enforcement agencies in the UK and Ireland. We are proud that the skies above the British Isles are patrolled by our capable and cost-effective products. In times of government budget austerity we prove again that our solutions make a big difference”.

With more than 350 Eurocopter helicopters in civil and para-public service across the United Kingdom, Eurocopter UK is the region’s leading onshore supplier of rotorcraft solutions.

United States

Despite the state of the global economy the business jet and piston-powered aircraft manufacturers Cessna Aircraft Company have announced the planned expansion of the company’s worldwide sales force by 50 per cent. The Kansas-based company are hoping to establish a presence via satellite offices where Cessna sees opportunity for growth in emerging markets, or where their presence needs consolidating in already well-established areas.

(copyright – Cessna)

Scott Ernest, Cessna’s president and CEO says “This move is another example of how Cessna is investing in the future. With the largest installed base of aircraft of any general aviation manufacturer, it is imperative that both current customers and those new to aviation have ready access to our team of experts before, during and after the acquisition of their aircraft.  Just as we’ve put an emphasis on our investments with new products and our global service network, we are continuing to invest in our people and their connections with our valued customers around the world.”

Bob Gibbs, vice president of regional sales, Latin America follows, “With six new products hitting the market during 2013 and the future introductions of the Citation Latitude and Citation Longitude models, it’s an exciting, dynamic time to be a part of the team.”

A full listing of career opportunities can be found at www.cessna.com

Africa

EAN, the Lagos-based fully integrated FBO service provider has announced that it will hold Nigeria’s first ever dedicated business aviation conference on Tuesday, 7 May, 2013.

The one-day invite-only event at The Nigerian Business Aviation Conference (NBAC), will bring together high-net-worth individuals, original equipment manufacturers, financiers, lawyers, regulatory bodies and industry leaders to discuss the challenges of developing business aviation in the region. The event is also being supported by the African Business Aviation Association, AfBAA.

Germany

And in case you somehow missed it…yup…Berlin’s Brandenburg Airport is still delayed til at least 2014…..

The post AirMayfair’s Aviation News Round-Up 19.3.13 appeared first on AirMayfair.

The film opens with an airplane flying straight at the audience. Its propeller spins into the film’s title frame and then into a shot of a hotel in Miami. A sign appears: Hotel Hibiscus, Roger Bond and His Yankee Clipper Band Now Playing in the Date Grove… which is where we meet Fred Astaire as Roger Bond’s assistant band leader, Fred Ayres..

Fred Astaire & Ginger Rogers

This is the first film in which Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers danced together and although they themselves didn’t think much of it at the time, it was obvious to others witnessing the on-screen chemistry as they put their heads together during the Carioca, that they were something special. And so it was that Flying Down To Rio launched their tandem dancing career, giving delight to so many for decades to come.

Carioca

In an extraordinary, funny and surreal dance sequence in a Rio nightclub they join a vast chorus of dancers who are dancing the Carioca. The scene has to be seen to be believed – I had to watch it a few times just to get my head around it – and was so amazing it inspired two decades of surreal song-and-dance sequences set in ever-more lavish surroundings.

The Gorgeous Dolores Del Rio

Dolores del Río played the lead in the film. A star in Hollywood in the 1920s and 1930s she was considered one of the most beautiful women of her time, the ‘Latin lover’ in silent films who became one of the few superstars to adapt to the talkies.  Regarded as one of the most important female figures of the Golden Age of Mexcian Cinema in the 1940s and 1950s, Dolores was married to Cedric Gibbons whose wife, Irene, designed the sumptuous clothes in Flying Down To Rio. She also had a four year affair with Orson Welles, was with him during the filming of Citizen Kane and considered him the love of her life.  It is hard to take your eyes off her during this film… but then they bring on the dancing girls and you don’t have much choice.

Flight

Flight is everywhere in the picture: girls dance on plane wings; a wedding on a seaplane; a balloon landing in an outdoor nightclub; a rejected lover exiting by parachute; and so on. And while Carioca may’ve been the best number in the movie, the most startling one was the title song, Flying Down to Rio. The characters – Roger Bond and his band – weren’t allowed to do a hotel floorshow, so they decided to take their show into the sky. While Roger conducts the band on the ground in front of a well-heeled Rio audience, the extraordinary airshow plays out in the blue skies above Rio de Janeiro. At one stage, a girl falls off a wing but is caught on the wings of a plane swooping below. The crowd reels!

At another moment – during the same totally nuts song – scantily-clad dancers performing on the wings of airplanes in flight lose the top layer of their clothes because their parachutes open thus stripping the clothes off their backs. These girls look like they’d make even the Emporer Ming smile who was surely watching them a little way above from his spaceship in the ether.. that’s how surreal and full of childish delight this movie is.

But don’t think it’s all naïve

The film’s opening credits tell us, in writing:

“Out of the clouds comes a gay romantic joy ride through the Sky!

Flying down to Rio… You’ll always remember the gorgeous girls..

The carioca with Ginger Rogers & Fred Astaire…

The sky’s the limit in this musical extravaganza…

An airomance (sic) staged above the clouds a million miles from care.

200 beauties and a host of stars… will take you – flying down to Rio.”

Enjoy!

The post Weekly Look at Helicopters, Planes And Private Jets in the Movies: This Week Flying down to Rio appeared first on AirMayfair.

You are a global traveller – ambitious, clever, stylish. Much of your life is spent on commercial and private charter flights, in luxury resorts, five star hotels, government headquarters and palatial private houses. You meet high net worth individuals, celebrities, politicians and heads of state to nurture progress, advice, investment and ideas.

You meet beautiful and funny people for pleasure.

And yet, surrounded by such wealth of knowledge and material privilege, how do you make sure that you stand out from the crowd?  How do you let people know, just by looking at you, that you are an alternative thinker who cares about craftsmanship and tradition in this materialistic world of ours…?

In answer to those questions, AirMayfair is pleased to present Williams Handmade – an all-British collection of handmade alternative luggage and bags that embody all those values: world-class travel, a new approach to age-old solutions and runway style. These pieces get people thinking.

Williams Handmade has received international awards and received critical acclaim in the press including in Vogue Italia and Harpers Bazaar and was recently chosen to exhibit in the V&A’s exhibition “Power of Making”.

Williams Handmade was founded in 2010 by Sarah Williams after completing a Masters with Distinction at The London College of Fashion, where she was also awarded the off catwalk collection of the year Award.

With a view to celebrating British national heritage each piece is produced by hand, using the finest British bridle leather and solid brass fittings. Committed to employing traditional craftsmanship in order to produce totally original products, Williams has challenged the fashion industry’s view on craft. As well as working on bespoke projects for clients, Williams Handmade produces new collections every year.

The Orient Collection

Inspired by the Art Deco style and also reflecting a hint of the mystery and intrigue which is synonymous with the Orient Express all pieces have been handmade using traditional skills in England, with the finest materials and fittings, also from England.

Craft Collection

All the shapes seem to reflect the best of world travel: Arcades in Italian palazzos, the mellow yellow steps of Grand Central Station, brass-hand rails on Atlantic cruisers, the pillar-box red livery of metropolitan wrought iron…

The Country Collection

A softer more playful collection of everyday-wear cases – including a beautiful document clutch case – in summer colours of coral, aqua, natural, Australian nut and navy blue.

Bespoke

Williams Handmade offers the service to produce bespoke products. This service can range from using different colour leather or making small changes, such as adding pockets or sections to one of Williams Handmade current designs to producing a completely unique item.

Williams Handmade works closely with each individual client to ascertain exactly what is required and then continues to work closely to develop this into a product that not only meets but exceeds the clients expectations.

Each item is produced by hand, with all stitching completed by hand. They are made to order and usually take 4- 6 weeks.

But whether you’re boarding your private business jet, international air charter, the Orient Express or the King’s yacht, you are sure to get noticed with Williams Handmade.

The post AirMayfair’s Fashion For The Runway: No1 – What A Carry On appeared first on AirMayfair.

The site incorporates two kilometres of coastline including the pink sandy beaches of Sveti Stefan, Miločer Beach and the famous Queen’s Beach. The Queen’s Beach has beautiful clear shallow waters in a secluded bay and is for use exclusively for hotel guests. Aman Sveti Stefan enjoys breathtaking views of the sea, across the bay and along Montenegro’s most renowned stretch of coastline. Just 36 minutes drive from the billionaire’s ever-buzzing marina of Porto Montenegro, this is the perfect place for tired sailors or those who like to travel in style to relax.

History

A fortified village in the 15^th century, it was built to defend against the Turks and became a haven for pirates in the Adriatic. Island life began with 12 families living inside the fortress eventually growing to a population of 400 during the 1800s. It was when the villages moved to the mainland that the island began its life as an exclusive resort during Tito’s regime. But during the Balkan Wars, when Montenegro separated from Yugoslavia, the resort fell into decline.

Accomodation

It has been sensitively restored to retain the historic fortified village atmosphere while providing luxurious contemporary living standards. All the rooms are different and so a variety of views await guests – from rooftops to courtyards, the sea or piazzas, depending on where you are located. As the historic exterior remains largely unchanged guests can expect to relish in the view wherever they are.

The resort in total contains 50 rooms, cottages and suites on the island, with a further 8 grand suites in Villa Miločer which, built in the mid 1930s, was the summer residence of Queen Marija Karadordevic (1900–1961) of the Serbian royal family.  The villa is surrounded by 800 olive trees on nearly 80 acres.

Back on the island olive trees, shrubs and herbs give out a wonderful aroma as you find your way along the narrow stone lanes to the main square which is the heart and soul of Stefan Sveti. It is a fantastic location for the hotels’ many dining venues including Taverna, an Enoteca, a Pasticceria, an Antipasti Bar and a Cigar Room with the potential for making for one big party in the evenings.  Open for most of the day guests can also breakfast here to their heart’s content. At Villa Miločer there are a further 3 dining venues with a wonderful beach side terrace. The Queen’s seat is a special cliff top restaurant serving fresh fish and seafood with amazing views.

Aman spa, gym and swimming pool

There are spa treatments available in a variety of locations on both the island and mainland but treatments can of course also be offered in the privacy of guests’ own accommodation. The state-of-the-art gym is situated on the island, offering a range of cardio machines as well as weight-training equipment. But for those who like to exercise in sunshine with spectacular views, then the island’s Cliff Pool should do the trick. Set on a cliff overlooking the Adriatic Sea, it is surrounded by a wooden deck which features sun loungers and tables and chairs for casual dining. The new season on the island begins next month. Enjoy!

The post Luxury Destination: Aman Sveti Stefan, Montenegro appeared first on AirMayfair.

The 20^th anniversary of the Falcon 2000 was the focus of the week at the Abu Dhabi Air Expo 2013. It was March 1993 when the large-cabin Falcon twinjet took its first flight in Bordeaux-Merignac, France. Compounding its global reputation for performance and innovation, Dassault has delivered almost 500 Falcon 2000s worldwide.

“The Falcon 2000 family of business jets has been a long-lasting success because of its cabin amenities, superior fuel efficiency and high retained value,” said Dassault Falcon president and CEO John Rosanvallon.

But we should remember that it was Marcel Dassault who said that a plane had to be beautiful if it was going to fly well, and with a global fleet achieving close to 2 million flying hours, making it one of the world’s most widely used business jets in operation, he’s been proved right.

Dassault Falcon is responsible for selling and supporting Falcon business jets throughout the world. It is part of Dassault Aviation, a leading aerospace company with a presence in over 70 countries across five continents. Dassault Aviation produces the Rafale fighter jet as well as the complete line of Falcon business jets. The company has assembly and production plants in both France and the United States and service facilities on multiple continents. It employs a total workforce of over 12,000. Since the rollout of the first Falcon 20 in 1963, over 2,200 Falcon jets have been delivered to 81 countries worldwide. The family of Falcon jets currently in production includes the tri-jets—the Falcon 900LX, and the 7X—as well as the twin-engine 2000LXS, 2000LX and Falcon 2000S.

Robinson To Go Unleaded

Robinson Helicopter, the most popular helicopter in the world, revealed this week at the Heli-Expo in Las Vegas that they are planning to obtain approval to operate its sturdy but highly manoeuvrable R44 and R22 piston-engine helicopters on unleaded fuel.

Robinsons  are so versatile and reliable that they are used by flying schools to teach students, and as aerial management aircraft by companies such as UK bracken control industry leader MFH Helicopters Ltd.

Before officially converting to unleaded, there are a lot of technical hoops to jump through first. Robinson CEO Kurt Robinson has said that engine-maker Lycoming need to obtain FAA approval to burn unleaded fuels in its engines. Meanwhile Robinson have to perform airframe testing with the fuels on board for each of its relevant helicopter models. According to Robinson the test plan involves “hitting a lot of points, with the most significant being establishing compatibility with relevant parts such as fuel bladders and O-rings, because the no-lead fuel has different components in it compared to leaded fuel.” Watch this space.

London City Airport Commits to Reducing Carbon Emissions

London City Airport (IATA LCY) has been recognised for its commitment to reducing its carbon footprint.  It has become the fourth in the UK to become Airport Carbon Accredited  by the only independent, institutionally-endorsed carbon standard for airports.

LCY has been awarded Level 1 accreditation (‘Mapping’), reflecting its efforts to understand the carbon output of the business and to implement a plan to reduce it.

The airport says that with almost all of the 6,000 tonnes of carbon emissions it currently produces coming from gas and electricity, the key steps it has identified centre around reducing energy consumption.

Examples include installing low wattage equipment with automatic standby functions and motion sensor-controlled lighting.  The airport is also investing in a new building management system, enabling centrally-controlled temperature and lighting in all public areas.

Gary Hodgetts, Director of Technical Operations at London City Airport said:  “We are proud to have been recognised by Airport Carbon Accreditation for our work in this area. We have identified a number of ways in which we can reduce our carbon output and will be implementing initiatives in the coming months, engaging our workforce across all areas to work together and create a more energy-efficient business.

“Individual airlines are each responsible for the emissions generated by their aircraft.  We are, however, also working closely with our airline partners to effect change where we can, such as through reducing unnecessary fuel burn, and we will continue to look for new ways to make improvements.”

The post AirMayfair’s Aviation News Round Up appeared first on AirMayfair.

(All pics courtesy of Soneva Group)

If you are tired of zooming around the world on your private jet then where better to restore yourself than the original desert island hideaway? Robert Louis Stevenson couldn’t have made up a more perfect island than Soneva Fushi in the Maldives. This kilometer long by half a kilometer wide island has sandy paths criss-crossing dense jungle and is bordered by perfect white sand harbouring nesting turtles. Its emerald green shallow waters lead onto a pristine reef and a vast turquoise horizon.

The owners – Sonu and Eva – are passionate about enriching the lives around them (human and animal) that are employed or may be affected by their resort and thus their resolve is for a sustainable culture for all to enjoy.

From Soneva you can feed dolphins at sunset, dive to watch the majestic ray feeding at Manta Point or have a luxury picnic provided for you on Soneva’s own private sandbank or on one of three nearby deserted islands.  If you’re feeling more social, you can sail to one of the inhabited nearby islands to discover more about the fascinating Maldavian culture and history.

After landing at Male International Airport in your private jet, your hideaway adventure begins with then flying into the island on a tiny private plane where you will be met by smiling hosts arriving on a traditional Maldivian dhoni boat. Your shoes are symbolically handed over so that the ‘no news, no shoes’ philosophy of the island can kick in and you can live free, barefoot, like a child.

There are sixty villas and five private residences to choose from, hidden away in the dense foliage but just a few soft white sandy steps away from the warm sea. All the accommodation fits into the Soneva ethos in that it is luxurious yet understated. Emphasis is on clean, organic, stylish comfort. Wooden boardwalks lead onto large airy rooms that host huge sigh-inducing beds. For dedicated sleepers there is a choice of four duvet types as well as an extensive pillow menu.   The impeccable, intuitive service comes courtesy of a fleet of Mr and Ms. Fridays who know what you want before you want it and provide it calmly and discreetly.

Many guests stay ‘home’, enjoying unrivalled peace and privacy with the best ‘takeaway’ food in the Indian Ocean. Others head out to explore the nine different dining options. To breakfast at Mihiree Mitha, the social hub of the island, or dine in Fresh In The Garden, a restaurant cooled by breezes above the heady scents of the famous organic herb (delicious rocket) and vegetable garden. The spa is always a great temptation. Watching movies at Cinema Paradiso, the open-air movie theatre with only the starlit sky above, is not to be missed. Nor is counting Saturn’s rings in the world class Observatory in the company of Dr Parag Mahajani, one of India’s leading astronomers. Choices abound.

The proximity to nature, the innate respect for the ocean’s wonders, 24/7 bare feet, all help to enhance a feeling of liberation and inner peace. Pleasure goes hand in hand with respect for the planet.  Sipping cocktails as dolphins scoot by in front of the setting sun is hedonism of the best kind. Nothing else compares.

The post Luxury Destination: Swim With Dolphins in Soneva Fushi, Maldives appeared first on AirMayfair.

Whether you’re the one who has paid to hire a private jet, or you are lucky enough to have been invited to fly on one, you want to make sure that your suitcase or luggage are going to look the part.

Flight attendants are far too well trained to let any passing judgement on the state of your luggage show on their faces. But speaking from experience, holidays are always more fun when your suitcases reflect the level of luxury you’re jetting into and it even makes packing a more enjoyable chore.

Naturally there are a whole host of luggage designers to choose from. Whether they are covered in embossed lipstick kisses (Guinness), an ubiquitous unmistakeable brand design (Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Liberty), the discreet European kind (Mulberry) or the playful sexy kind (Jimmy Choo), these modern designer suitcases are the kind that you are going to see wheeled across the new concourse at Qatar’s new Hamad International Airport, carried down the boardwalks at top ranking marinas straight onto the waiting millionaire and billionaire’s yachts moored at St Tropez, Monaco, Qatar, New York, Rio, Palma de Mallorca, and of course featuring time and time again in paparazzi shots at LAX airport in California…

A (small but gorgeous) Liberty Suitcase

But AirMayfair thinks it is worth thinking outside the box about luggage. After all, if you’re flying in your private jet, business jet, helicopter or whatever the air charter style that you have chosen then your luggage is not going to be thrown around by careless baggage handlers, chucked into the hold and squashed by piles of strangers’ luggage. It will be carefully placed on to your private jet rental or helicopter charter. And this is why AirMayfair would like to explore a way that clients can make a statement with their luggage that won’t go unnoticed: vintage luggage.

(A 1920s crocodile skin suitcase from Vintage Seekers)

150 years ago travel was becoming all the rage for the upper classes and the wealthy. A gentleman named Thomas Cook realised that travel and tourism were becoming viable businesses and industrialisation meant that journeying around Britain, and onto the continent, was becoming more accessible and more comfortable.

For those that could afford it pieces of beautiful luggage, artfully designed, crafted with great expertise and ingenuity by craftsmen who had worked at their trade all their lives long, were a necessity. The set of luggage not only needed to reflect the wealth of the owner, part of the travelling elite, but also needed to accommodate the vast array of accessories (hats, gloves, cuffs and collars, lace, cufflinks, jewels etc)  as well as the considerably delicate and/or bulky clothes that the wealthy would, at that time, have worn.

1890 – 1950 was a period when Hermès, Louis Vuitton, Goyard and Asprey were all earning their formidable reputations as some of history’s greatest luggage craftsmen. They made trunks from timber, from the best leather available, from brass and from finely hewn metal. English leather luggage and trunks were also among the very finest in the world, with pieces by Finnigans, Drews and John Pound still much sought after today. Portobello Road company Fine And Vintage recognised the market early and so have been sourcing and selling pieces like the ones mentioned above since the 1960s.

(A 1910 French crocodile skin dressing suitcase with beautiful patina)

The great joy of vintage luggage – whether you buy a small vintage OshKosh suitcase or a vast steamer trunk with the aristocrat’s initials still stamped into the leather – is that you are buying a piece of travelling history. The patina on the leather is part of its charm, but naturally you will want to choose a piece or pieces with clean interiors – some of which are silk lined. If you have a particular style, era or set of initials in mind, then contact a dealer, brief them on what you want and they can do the search for you. 

With the right attitude, and the right piece of luggage, you too can be a part of travel history as your flight staff load your stack of vintage suitcases onto your private jet, business jet or helicopter. And when you’re not travelling, the piece will be so beautiful you can display it in your home!

The post Carry Style On Board Your Private Jet appeared first on AirMayfair.

There some places and pastimes that are so good, and so readily available, that they can get overlooked in favour of something more exotic or fashionable.  But this week AirMayfair is proud and delighted to invite clients to get horizontal in one of its favourite places in the world: Paris.  Lie back in your private jet and snooze your way to your bed in one of the world’s most beautiful cities…

GEORGE V

Once there your first port of call for your horizontal-height-of-luxury Parisian experience could be the gorgeous Four Seasons George V.  This hotel is a renown and much beloved ambassador for the luxury, elegance and charm synonymous with the modern-day City of Light. Just a few steps from the Champs-Elysées, the George V’s private terraces have a commanding view of Paris, its interiors boast lovingly restored 18th-century tapestries, and there is a swimming-pool that is so beautiful it almost feels wrong to dive in and disturb its topaz-like waters which means (for this trip at least) you won’t feel that guilty if you stay on your recliner!

At the George V you can luxuriate in bed, kick back on your sun-lounger or get seriously horizontal during a ‘Spa journey’ which is touted as a ‘chocolate lover’s fantasy’.  A chocolate body scrub is followed by a deeply nourishing body wrap using a smooth chocolate blend. Then you get massaged with cocoa shea butter before turning over so that you can fill up on a delicious choice of chocolates from the George V patisserie. All you need to after that is retire to bed – yey!

(this is not a picture of the George V treatment!)

 HOTEL KEPPLER

If you prefer a more modern look and a smaller, less obvious hideaway then Hotel Keppler is a great choice. Monochrome is the height of fashion at the moment and Keppler’s black and white themed rooms and suites, blended with French sophistication and elegance, make it an irresistible destination for the aesthetically inclined in need of some serious pampering. Located near the Champs Elyseés and the Arc de Triomphe the hotel is hosted by a Haussmanian building from the 19^th century. Some of the glamorous 5 suites (there are also many rooms) have a terrace offering fantastic views of Paris and the Eiffel Tower so you won’t even have to leave your bed to see the city’s most appealing sites.

ÎLE ST LOUIS

Alternatively, you might prefer to stay in an apartment of your own on Île St Louis which houses a handful of the world’s most beautiful homes in one of the most coveted spots on the planet. Staff can be arranged – such as a daily housekeeper and chef – to ensure that your apartment maintains all the convenience of staying at a hotel, but in a charming and authentic French environment. You won’t have to get out of bed all day…except perhaps to see the sunset over Notre Dame.

MOVIETIME

Now that you are comfortably settled in bed with your Michelin starred supper-on-a-tray on your knees, you’re going to need some films to watch. Of course there are so many wonderful films set in Paris that this is just a tiny selection. You can of course also watch some on your private jet or helicopter charter on your way home. Here’s what we recommend.

Nouvelle Vague:  Bande à Part, by Jean-Luc Goddard which he describes as Alice In Wonderland meets Franz Kafka.  In this seminal film, Jean-Luc Godard has Anna Karina, flanked by Sami Frey and Claude Brasseur, race against time to beat the world record for running through the Louvre galleries. Their time? 9 minutes and 43 seconds. You could give this a go if all the lying down is getting a bit much.

Comedy: 2 Days In Paris starring the glorious Julie Delpy, her very eccentric parents (in real life), and the brilliant eternal American kook, Adam Goldberg. Prepare to laugh so much that your head will bounce against the headboard. Also Midnight In Paris starring Owen Wilson and Marion Cottillard is just delightful. Best watched at midnight!

Romance: Before Sunset (also starring the gorgeous Ms Delpy and Ethan Hawke). AirMayfair has a particular soft spot for this film…

Erotic drama: Last Tango in Paris with Brando of course, although, for a multi-tude of reasons, you might want to finish eating before you watch this one.

Now that you’ve been to Paris but seen nothing of it except out of your window and on film, it’s time to get on your private jet again and snooze (or kiss!) your way home. Either way, AirMayfair wishes you some sweet dreaming.

The post AirMayfair Luxury Destination for the Private Jet Set: Bed In Paris appeared first on AirMayfair.

Ever since the 1960s the Gulfstream Jet has been synonymous with the fastest and most luxurious business travel for those who don’t have to think about the cost.

(© Gulfstream!)

The G650 boasts the longest range, the largest cabin, the most advanced cockpit technology and the highest cruising height of all business jets: at 51,000 ft  it can avoid airline traffic congestion and bad weather. But it is the business jet’s super-fast operating speed that garners the most attention. With a top speed  of 0.925 Mach this makes the G650 the fastest non-military aircraft in the world. For those of you not familiar with what 0.925 Mach implies, it means that the G650’s top speed approaches the speed of sound (Mach 1).

Gulfstream Aerospace Corps delivered their first G650 to the customer in December – Las Vegas casino and hotel mogul and longtime Gulfstream patron, Steve Wynn. They regard the ultra-large-cabin, ultra-long-range G650 as their new flagship aircraft, and for good reason: they have just established four city-pair speed records in five days, connecting cities in the U.S., Middle East and Russia.

“The G650, which entered service just over two months ago, is redefining what business jet operators can expect from their aircraft,” said Larry Flynn, president, Gulfstream. “Its combination of performance, range, speed and comfort is unparalleled in our industry. When you fly on a G650, you are in for an unforgettable experience.”

Globally acknowledged as setting the gold standard in business aviation this business jet flies faster, farther, and more luxuriously than any other business aircraft in its class. Carrying eight passengers and four crew on non-stop legs of 7,000 nautical miles (12,965 km), its powerful BR725 Rolls-Royce engines means it can easily link passengers between Qatar and New York, London and Rio de Janeiro.

The Passenger Experience

(© Gulfstream)

In designing the G650 particular attention was paid to the passenger experience, focusing on the cabin environment to ensure a deluxe flight for those who can afford to travel in style. Consequently up to 18 people can be accommodated comfortably in the living environment as the G650 cabin has more height, width and length than any other cabin in its class.  There are 12 different layout configurations to choose from which means on-board meeting, eating and sleeping arrangements can be easily catered to whatever the mission. There is even a ‘large stateroom option for resting up between world capitals’ says Gulfstream. With all these bases covered you and your work force are sure to get the most from your trip.

The Record Breaking Details

(© Gulfstream!)

Having only earned its type certification from the US Federal Aviation Administration in early September 2012, the first customer to take delivery of the G650 aircraft was on 20 December 2012. But already the aircraft is on the brink of being confirmed to have broken world records. Pending approval from the US National Aeronautic Association – Gulfstream Aerospace Corp will send four G650 city-pair records to the Federation Aeronautique International in Switzerland in the hopes that their 4 speed records will be recognized as world-breaking for the following flights:

1. on Jan 23^rd the G650 set off from Dulles International Airport outside Washington D.C., landing in Qatar at Doha International Airport. It flew 6,575 nautical miles (11,992 km) at Mach 0.88 in 11hrs 40 minutes, resulting in an average speed of 603 mph (970 km/h).
2. on Jan 25^th it flew from Doha International Airport to the United States, landing at New Jersey’s Teterboro Airport at Mach 0.87 in 13 hours and 3 minutes. The 6,102 nautical miles (11,301km) was completed at an average speed of 537 mph (864 km/h).
3. on Jan 26, the G650 was piloted from Teterboro Airport to Moscow Vnukovo at Mach 0.90. It landed in Moscow having covered a distance of 4,190 nautical miles (7,760 km) after 7 hours and 47 minutes, a record time. The aircraft’s average speed was 619 mph (996 km/h).
4. And then finally on January 28^th, the G650′s city-pair record came about because it departed Moscow Vnukovo Airport and landed at Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport in 9 hours, 33 minutes. Cruising at Mach 0.90-0.91 for the 4,774-nautical-mile (8,841 km) journey, the G650 achieved an average speed of 574 mph (924 km/h).

The post Gulfstream Fastest Business Jet G650 to break world records? appeared first on AirMayfair.

(© 20th Century Fox)

As a tribute to the late and beloved Richard Briers, AirMayfair this week brings you the unlikely pairing of Richard Briers and Raquel Welch in a plane. Amazing! In this perhaps little remembered but-definitely-worth-seeing kitsch spy movie of the late 1960s you can see the quintessentially English Briers opposite one of the top 5 sex bombs of the 20^th century. The film is notable for many things including Welch as a total knockout in a green bikini (and many other tiny costumes), the stunning footage of Andalucía in Spain in the late 1960s, and some great fights in small private planes.

(© 20th Century Fox)

Made in 1967 Fathom  is a British comedy spy film directed by Leslie H.Martinson and starring American actor Anthony Franciosa (with a seriously bad blonde dye job) and Raquel Welch at possibly her most gorgeous.

The year before Fathom was aired Welch had starred in Lost Voyage and One Million Years BC. Fathom came about because, after the success of the James Bond films which began five years before in 1962 with Dr No, there was still a craze for spy movies. Films about secret agents fulfilled so many aspects that movie-goers hungered for: intrigue, suspense, adventure, style and romance, with a lot of gadgets, cars, private planes, jets, guns and exotic locations to boot.

Naturally Hollywood’s directors, producers and movie stars capitalised on this providing gorgeous leading men as their spies in action. But even women got a turn at being the main focus of the spy story. Monica Vitti was Modesty Blaise and Raquel Welch was Fathom Harvill in this light-hearted and rather kitschy spy spoof. (Note it was leading man Franciosa who got the leading bill even though it was leading lady Welch who starred in practically every shot in the film).

In Fathom Welch plays the eponymous heroine Fathom Harvill who is not only a dental assistant but also an American skydiver touring Europe with the American parachute team. The film opens and closes with parachuting, sky-diving and small private plane action. The opening sequence kicks off with Raquel – sexy as ever – packing up her parachute in a red top and bikini bottoms. She then jumps out of a plane, and on landing gets a ride from a young English gentleman (Richard Briers) who then drives her to meet a Colonel Campbell. Campbell is a Scottish agent working with American intelligence and he asks her to help them recover an atomic triggering mechanism.

(© 20th Century Fox)

But then she meets a Chinese operative Peter Merriweather (Franciosa) and discovers that the Scottish Agent is actually a private investigator and she has been tricked into helping him steal some jewellery. Whose side Fathom is supposed to be on is for the audience – and Fathom – to guess as the film unravels in its own sexy merry way.

(© 20th Century Fox)

Fathom has a pretty hard time of it as it is difficult to work out who to trust or what their motives are. But what this means is that we get to see Fathom in varying sorts of dangerous and romantic situations: there’s an underwater spear gun attack, being chased around a Spanish bullring by a bull and struggles in a private plane or two. For most of the time she seems either to be wearing a bikin or a very short dress, thus earning the film’s strapline: “Fathom – the world’s most uncovered undercover agent!”

As it turned out, much of the aerial action in Fathom – the flight and fight scenes and the romantic airborne ending – preceded the many flying stunts and sequences which would ultimately come to feature heavily in the Bond brand. Raquel, though, for all her enormous sex appeal, was never cast as a Bond girl. Perhaps her role in Fathom had blown that possibility apart.

The post AirMayfair’s Weekly Look At Helicopters & Private Planes In The Movies: This Week – Fathom appeared first on AirMayfair.

We hear about their presence in Britain all the time. The British press have reflected on how it feels like the tiny Gulf state of Qatar own most of London as Harrods, the Shard, No 1 Hyde Park (the world’s most expensive block of flats), the Olympic Village, 20 per cent of the London Stock Exchange, much of Canary Wharf’s financial district and even 20 per cent of grungy-old Camden Market belongs to them.

In 2010 we read about the 60 year old ruler His Highness the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani’s state visit to Queen Elizabeth at Windsor Castle in 2010  and marvelled at the pics of his second of three wives, Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser who accompanied him. Not only is she known to be a driving force behind the education and social reforms in her own country, embodied by the impressive Qatar Foundation, but she is a regular presence on the world stage too, calling to global leaders to consider the concerns of vulnerable children during and as a result of war.

Gorgeous, innately beautiful, and with an elegant and glamorous dress sense to rival Jackie O, she’s the mother of 7 children too. Her attitude is often thought to embody the astonishing rise and rise of Qatar in that education, intelligence, diplomacy and great taste can get you far if you push hard enough.

So what of this tiny round peninsular smack in the middle of the Persian Gulf? They are the richest country in the world… They’re getting ready to host the FIFA World Cup in 2022… They currently sponsor the world’s most successful football team, Barcelona… And in the past decade have compounded their reputation as a powerful economic force, mediator and a major player on the global stage. But if you have no connections to Qatar, and if your business isn’t there, why would you go?

The answer is that for those seeking a luxury destination, the democratic but yet devoutly religious Qatar is positioning itself as the jewel of the Middle East. It looks to high-end luxury as the ideal marketing tool as it brings both investment and prestige to a country whose declining fortunes (due to loss of the pearl trade) were completely changed when oil was discovered in the late 1930s. From its humble origins it has become one of the wealthiest nations on earth in less than a century and is continuing to grow at breakneck speed.

Luxury and big money fuels everything in Doha. Qatar’s tiny coast-side capital is crowded with world-class hotels including the St Regis, Four Seasons and Ritz Carlton, with more prestige hotels being built.  Built with the idea of being the riviera of the Middle East in mind, brand-new spacious luxury apartments overlook hangar-sized designer shopping malls that echo with the sound of designer high-heels and the swish of burkas along marble corridors… State-of-art marinas are stuffed with billionaire’s yachts who also fly in and out of the country on their private jets. In short, the Qatari   royal family seem to have taken what they deem to be the best of life and either imported it to Qatar or improved on what was already there (if by improving you mean to make something more luxurious and urbane.) Even the Tribeca Film Festival now has a presence in Doha..

They are also building The Pearl-Qatar which is an artificial island of nearly four million square metres creating 32 kilometres of new coastline and for use as a vast residential estate with a forecast 15,000 homes and 45,000 residents by 2015, many of the owners are non-Qatari nationals. Numerous members of the world’s most renown luxury brands have a presence there, from fashion designers, chefs, car dealerships, and hotels. Part of The Pearl-Qatar is designed to reflect a string of pearls in order to represent the region’s past.

But the Qataris have been clever in that they are careful to guard their traditions: from encouraging good strong family life, to the preservation of crafts and talents and there are many places which maintain this ethos. Like the Souq Waqif, once a weekend trading area for the nomdic Bedouin, it was renovated in 2004 using traditional Qatari architectural techniques and authentic materials. The only traditional souq left in the Gulf it provides all the joys of any Middle Eastern souq with an amazing range of products to buy.

And yet despite the acceleration of urban living there are still many old mosques, forts, ancient villages, museums and art galleries to explore. Wildlife around Qatar includes the ‘singing’ sand dunes, and its 563km of sandy coastline with many sand bars, islets and reefs. So do we need any more reasons to fly to Qatar except curiosity and a love of the high-life? Er…not really, no. Perhaps we just need the time and the money…

The post Private Jet Set Luxury Destination: Qatar appeared first on AirMayfair.

Abdul Aziz Al Noami, QCAA chairman, said: “Hamad International Airport will truly be a global showpiece that the State of Qatar will justifiably be proud of. 2005 seems like only yesterday when the foundation stone was laid for work to start on the new airport project. Eight years on and we are just weeks away from the latest chapter in the airport’s history with the start of operations.

“A new workplace and stunning architectural masterpiece will enhance the skyline of Doha providing new surroundings for airport employees and the travelling public from around the world,” he added.

According to the airport’s operator – Qatar Airways – the first phase of Hamad International Airport is set to open on April 1^st 2013 and involves 12 international passenger airlines including budget airlines.

Qatar Airways is set to open there in the second half of the year meaning that Doha will juggle a dual airport operation until the transfer is complete.

Qatar’s new international airport will stretch across an astonishing 29 square kilometers which, if you consider that Heathrow is currently stretched across 12.4 kilometers gives you an idea of how ambitious this project actually is.

The new airport will incorporate the multi-concourse Terminal 1 due to open this year which should be able to handle around 24 – 28 million people a year (figures vary). (Doha handled 12 million).  It will have 150 passenger check-in stations, numerous lounges and a reported 25,000 square meters of retail to ensure that travellers can get their shopping fix.  And with 41 contact gates and 88 passenger loading bridges means passengers can just walk from the bridge onto the plane thus avoiding all the long bus rides that travellers – who like to travel in style! - became so weary of.

There will be another passenger terminal. There will also be car hire facilities, cargo exchange, catering facilities, and a maintenance hanger and but the big wow is the exclusive 12,000 sq meter Emiri terminal with its separate aircraft apron and a ceremonial venue for receiving state guests. Meals for the Emiri terminal and for the other bigger terminals can be produced on-site due to state of the art catering facilities which will also see meals loaded directly onto the planes before take off.

The cargo terminal will be able to handle around 1.4 million tons annual capacity thanks to an automated container storage system, and the new maintenance hangar, boasting the widest free-span opening in the world, can hold up to 13 aircraft simultaneously.

Of course, as Qatar is a Muslim country, the majority of its travelers and workers are Muslim which is why a mosque has been built right outside the main entrance to the airport to ensure that the five-daily calls to prayer are answered.

Hamad International Airport signals a new era for Qatar and the reputation of the region as second-to-none in Western Asia for luxury and convenience. For those who like to travel in style the new airport will almost seem like a destination in itself.

The post Travel In Style on April Fool’s Day via Qatar’s New Airport: Hamad International appeared first on AirMayfair.

Many of you reading this may not remember what it was like to have to carry your own luggage. You won’t remember the burning sensation of a rectangular plastic  handle digging into your skin as you carried your suitcase up through endless cobbled streets to your Greek or Italian villa. You won’t remember the strap of a huge canvas holdall slicing the top of your shoulder off.  And you probably won’t remember trying to work out how to carry two suitcases and your baby through the airport. If none of this sounds familiar it’s because you were born after the invention of the luggage wheel. OR you could afford to travel in style paying everyone from bell hop to private jet flight attendant to carry your luggage for you, and pehaps even zip around the world in your private jet….

(© Hugh Hefner/Playboy)

The days when suitcases didn’t roll were the days when short skirts, good legs and a big smile went a long way to getting men to carry your suitcases for you. Bad luck if you were a guy yourself…!

Just as it is almost impossible to imagine life without a mobile, smart phone, ipad, laptop or computer, imagining that it took until 1970 for anyone to think of attaching a wheel onto the suitcase feels practically ridiculous. How could something so glaringly obvious go uninvented of for so long?

Eventually, in 1970, an American called Mr Bernard D Sadow –  rather conveniently a vice-President for a luggage firm in Massachusetts - had a Eureka moment (the long long awaited Eureka moment) as he was lugging two heavy suitcases with his family through an airport. Fed up with the load, he decided to get a hard suitcase, attached some wheels to the bottom of it and added a looped handle so that you could pull it around, a bit like a stubborn dog on a lead. He received the patent two years later and although, strangely, it took a while for the idea to catch on (surely one of the greatest examples of how people don’t – or at least didn’t – like change) Macy’s department store finally took to ordering the ‘luggage that glides’ and bingo, the wheels took hold.

And yet it took around another 15 years for an American North West Airlines pilot called Robert Plath to decide that the suitcases would be much easier to pull if they sort of incorporated the old wheel trolley idea of yore in that the suitecase would balance on two wheels and be pulled along by a rigid and yet conveniently telescopic handle that sunk into the well of the suitcase shell. He began with selling it to flight crews with the rather brilliant name, Rollaboard, who loved it so much he set up his own luggage company and started selling it to the public and lo! Our lives were changed.

Well of course other luggage companies grasped the idea and moulded it, adapted it, improved on it, and even altered their airliners to incorporate the now ubiquitous over-night suitcases in their overhead cabins.  Even alpha male CEOs of global companies got over the notion that pulling your luggage along on wheels was a bit – well – girlie, and eventually yielded to the notion of rolling their luggage and hand-luggage behind them. Celebrities, heads of state, executives and other private jet charter clients can now be seen wheeling their particularly special suitcase behind them, across the tarmac, straight onto their private plane.

The difference the luggage wheel has made is sort of like the difference between lugging 5 books around with you in your gap year in your rucksack, and carrying the kindle which fits in the pocket. Or like flying on private jet compared to commercial charter. Either way, travel is easier and you’re a lot less stressed when you get there.

The post Stories To Amuse The Private Jet Set No 2: Your Own Set Of Wheels appeared first on AirMayfair.

Pan-Asian business aviation consulting group, Asian Sky Group, have released information from their study that claims that Greater China’s business jet fleet grew by 40% last year. (Greater China includes Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macau and the People’s Republic – otherwise known as PRC or Mainland China) Apparently 91% of the new top of the range business jets commissioned included the super-large, extra long-haul and corporate airlines. The fleet now totals 336 aircraft.

Asian Sky Group offer an extensive range of business aviation solutions tailored to the growing private jet markets of Greater China and the Asia-Pacific region. They also leverage the investments, business development initiatives and networks of SEACOR Capital (Asia) Ltd and Avion Pacific Ltd.

Brazil

(The stunning Legacy 500 – copyright Embraer)

Brazilian aeronautical conglomerate Embraer S.A. released its delivery outlook which revealed that while business peaked in 2010 with 144 business jets delivered, the maker of the Phenom, Legacy and Lineage product lines has reduced annual output to 99 total aircraft for the next two years.

The damage done to the light jet market in North America since the financial crisis in 2008 is obvious, but Embraer, a producer of commercial, military and executive aircraft and aeronautical services, appears to be riding this out even though significant improvements in that market are yet to be seen.

However light jet deliveries could improve to between 80 and 90 Phenoms, up from 77 last year. And NetJets – one of their big customers in 2010 when they took delivery of the 50 Phenom 300s – remain as clients.

Embraer have also committed to boosting business jet deliveries to between 105 and 120, including first deliveries of the Legacy 500, due 2014. The Legacy 500, currently going through its initial phases of the flight test program, is the first Embraer aircraft to incorporate a fully integrated, closed-loop fly-by-wire flight control system. This makes it the smallest military aircraft to enter service with such technology.

Embraer’s large jet deliveries are forecast to increase from 22 in 2012 to between 25 – 30 in 2013.  Their executive aviation division is forecast to provide one-quarter of all revenues at around $1.4-$1.6 billion.

Middle East

The Middle East Business Aviation Association (MEBAA) has offered to mediate in a dispute between Rizon Jet  (the Doha-based private aviation services provider with a 2 year-old VIP terminal at London’s Biggin Hill) and Qatar’s civil aviation authority.

Rizon Jet’s complaint is that Qatar’s CAA is impeding Rizon’s chances of competing with the state-owned Qatar Airways. Qatar Airways operates the airport and effectively has a monopoly on ground handling, a situation which Rizon Jet claims makes for an ‘uneven playing field’. Rizon Jet are seen to be in direct competition with Qatar Airway’s executive jet charter business.

The chairman of the MEBAA Mr Ali Al Naqbi has said that the organisation wants to help Rizon Jet “build a bridge and create an effective means of communicating concerns” with the authority and that the MEBAA’s objective is to create “a sustainable and competitive environment in Qatar that will facilitate increased adoption and accessibility for business aviation in the Middle East.”

The International Business Aviation Council in Montreal has also been alerted to the dispute by the MEBAA.

The post AirMayfair’s Private Jet And Business Jet News 19/02/13 appeared first on AirMayfair.

(copyright Bettman/Corbis)

They have a pretty good reputation today, but air stewardesses weren’t always so glamorous. A young lady called Ellen Church was the first female flight attendant even though she was a 25 year old registered nurse who wanted to be a pilot apparently. America’s United Airlines hired her in 1930 and soon other airlines were hiring nurses on most of their flights creating precious jobs which, for women at that time were far and few between. Even more so as it coincided with the Great Depression and so a reported 2,000 women applied for only 43 places which were offered by Transcontinental and Western Airlines.

The notion of women as female flight attendants or stewardesses became so popular that by 1936 they had pretty much prised the role out of men’s hands. Presumably women with a nursing background were notable in their attention to detail and their ability to anticipate the needs and concerns of others which made them well suited to the job on what would then have been a very uncomfortable mode of transport. The women were on hand to help the passengers travel in style.

Also, as nurses, they would have had rigorous training in terms of hygiene standards and appearance, with personal grooming and attention to detail for make-up and hair of regular concern. The airlines would have stipulated that no tattoos should be visible when their uniforms was worn and would have ensured that there was a uniformity to their female staff’s presentation such as all wearing the same coloured nail varnish, lipstick and stockings.

An article in a 1936 New York Times stated that ”The girls who qualify for hostesses must be petite; weight 100 to 118 pounds; height 5 feet to 5 feet 4 inches; age 20 to 26 years. Add to that the rigid physical examination each must undergo four times every year, and you are assured of the bloom that goes with perfect health.” Imagine trying to give that kind of description now for your private jet staff! Surely only the Crazy Horse in Paris is able to give those kinds of rigid outlines to a job specification these days.

By the end of World War II the rules relaxed as many of the nurses joined the war effort by signing up for the armed forces but by the 1960s the requirements were listed as “A high school graduate, single (widows and divorcees with no children considered), 20 years of age (girls 19 1/2 may apply for future consideration). 5’2” but no more than 5’9,” weight 105 to 135 in proportion to height and have at least 20/40 vision without glasses.”

Also by the 1960s, pioneering jet-engine technology and pressurised cabins meant that air-travel became a whole lot more pleasurable not only on commercial jets, but also on private jets too. This meant that private jet travel became popular with a handful of high-profile millionaire businessmen. The whole industry suddenly got a lot more glamorous also thanks to the advertising companies in the early-60s finally realising just how much sex sells. The airlines – both commercial and private jet – acted accordingly….

Stewardesses went from being girls who served you on your flight, to party hostesses who made the whole thing swing. They were given deportment lessons and make-up lessons and in effect were used as bait, the supermodels of their day. On some airlines dresses were provided that could be cut as short as the girls wanted and apparently some could be so short that when the girls put something into the overhead rack, passengers could easily see a flash of knickers.  Pretty outrageous, even today!

Air stewardesses had to be single and they automatically lost their job if they got engaged to be married. But of course cruising the airways was a fantastic way to find a husband with a good job. Getting engaged would, in those days, have seemed like a door into a whole new life that many of them could not otherwise have afforded or even dreamt of, without the great freedom and ability to explore the world that being an air stewardess could bring them.

The post Stories to Amuse the Private Jet Set No1 – The Rise of Air Stewardesses (And their skirts!) appeared first on AirMayfair.

(copyright United Artists)

Whether chasing henchmen, escaping villains or pursuing girls James Bond knows how to travel in style. For James Bond die hards the ultimate James Bond vehicle will probably always be the famous Aston Martin DB5. It featured in six films (Goldfinger, GoldenEye, Thunderball, Tomorrow Never Dies, Casino Royale and Skyfall) so its imprint on our ‘Bond memory’ is indelible.

Fleming was the ultimate writer of toys for the boys which is why Bond’s world is peppered with amazing vehicles from a Cadillac hearse in Diamonds Are Forever, a Cadillac Fleetwood ‘Pimpmobile’ driven by Mr Big in Live and Let Die. There are moon buggies, beach buggies and motorbikes, fire-engines and even the double decker bus stolen by Bond and Solitaire in Live And Let Die, skirting the coast of an alligator-filled ‘Voodoo land’.  Bond has made love on trains, escaped in hovercrafts and speedboats and gone undercover on cargo ships. But what about a private jet, or private plane? There are loads of them in the Bond movies, for the villains and for Bond too which must mean that Moneypenny had to have been a whizz in international air charter. AirMayfair decided to explore the jets, planes and helicopter in our favourite Bond film: Goldfinger.  

(copyright United Artists)

World-dominator-wannabe Auric Goldfinger and his henchmen are planning to decimate the world economy by looting the United States Bullion Depository, aka Fort Knox. In order to break into the heavily armed fort, Goldfinger enlists the help of self-professed lesbian Pussy Galore’s Flying Circus. The Flying Circus are a group of 5 female aviators deployed by Goldfinger to help carry out ‘Operation Grand Slam.’ His plan is that in order to kill all the soldiers defending the Depository, the women pilots are to spray a nerve gas over Fort Knox, leaving Goldfinger free to plant an atomic device in the vault. Leading-bird Pussy Galore gets the job of flying a Hiller 12E4 into the grounds, containing Goldfinger and the atomic bomb…

Of course Bond foils Goldfinger’s plan but the escaping Goldfinger manages to trick Bond into getting onto his private jet as it takes off for Cuba piloted, of course, by Pussy Galore.   By firing a golden gun (how else?) Bond manages to get Goldfinger and his henchman Oddjob sucked out of one of the windows of the private jet. He and Pussy then bail out and of course – even though she’s a sworn lesbian ‘immune’ to his charms – they land somewhere tropical where Bond gets to make love to the sapphic aviatrix under a parachute… Talk about flying undercover.

(copyright United Artists)

The actual helicopter used in the film was manufactured by Hiller Aircraft Company in California in 1960 the helicopter was restored a few years ago to be a fully functioning, flying certified helicopter. Meanwhile the film, with its iconic dead gold girl, the Aston Martins, the lesbian anti-heroine and the fantastically organised villain, Goldfinger, the movie is widely considered the best of the James Bond movies, and the one that set the ‘template’ for all the wonderful Bond films to follow.

The post AirMayfair’s Weekly Look at Private Jets and Helicopters in the Movies: James Bond – Goldfinger appeared first on AirMayfair.

What is there to do?

If the area is totally unknown to you then it’s worth pointing out that the Alps play host to the Alpine lakes (go figure!) of France, Italy, Switzerland Austria. The great thing about them is that there is so much to do there from tobogganing, skiing, swimming, paragliding, hang gliding, walking, hiking, helicopter charter, sailing…

Skiing

If it’s ski-ing that you are after but feel you might have left it too late then don’t despair as Lake Zauchen is a great choice. Situated near the historic town of Salzburg, its elevations range form about 1350 – to 2188m above sea level which means that the ski season begins there earlier than many other Austrian resorts as the snow is second to none and often reaches two meters in the mountains and lasts well into the spring.

Pond life

However if you long for fresh air and the chance to stretch your legs while taking in some literally breath-taking scenery then the Austrian Alps also play host to the Austrian Lakes which are surrounded by the beautifully dramatic mountains. The Lakes include Hallstatter Lake, Lake Achen, Lake Traun, Lake Zauchen, Lake Atter, Lake Zeller and the brilliantly named Lake Wolfgang which lies in the Salzkammergut resort area.

Each of the lakes has its’ own attractions and character. Lake Wolfgang would be a great destination for you as walking and hiking around the lake are a very popular way to enjoy it. A bit like Britain’s Lake Windermere, Lake Wolfgang is the best known of all the lakes as it has so many things to offer. The landscape is so big there that you don’t only have the choice of going clockwise or anti-clockwise around the lake – there are all sorts of paths and directions to set out on to get you back home. There are shores to amble along but if you choose to conquer summits then you will be rewarded with some incredible scenery as you get near to the mountain tops.

But if you are looking for a bit of wild swimming in the summer months then you might consider Lake Krummsee which has crystal clear waters with temperatures reaching around 25 degrees C. Naturally this makes it a very popular lake for bathing in, with a perfect swimming depth too of 2.5 metres. As well as paddling and swimming you can rent a rowboat and laze away your day gazing at the clouds reflected in the clear lake waters. Located at the bottom of the Rofan mountains the lake is a great place for cyclists and hikers to jump in to at the end of their day.

We loved it!

AirMayfair found the cities of Innsbruck (the capital of the state of Tyrol) and Salzburg to retain their charming aspects of traditional Austrian culture. As you walk around the medieval streets the Hapsburg palaces and mountains glower over you and you can imagine Mozart dashing through the streets, capes billowing in the snow. We really were surprised how much of their culture the Austrians have retained and how charming and delicious all the traditional inns and restaurants were that we went to.

Private jets can fly in to the largest airport in the Tyrol region of western Austria, Kranebitten Airport (INN or LOWI). It handles mostly regional flights but also takes international commercial flights and international private jets too, especially during the very popular winter ski season. Enjoy!

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History: Return of A King: The Battle for Afghanistan by William Dalrymple, published by Bloomsbury  

For anyone who wants perspective on our presence and imminent withdrawal from Afghanistan, Return of a King is the definitive analysis of the First Afghan War in the mid 19^th century.  Told through the lives of unforgettable characters on all sides and using for the first time contemporary Afghan accounts of the conflict, prize-winning and bestselling historian William Dalrymple’s masterful retelling of Britain’s greatest imperial disaster is a powerful and important parable of colonial ambition and cultural collision, folly and hubris, for our times.

In the spring of 1839, the British invaded Afghanistan for the first time. Led by lancers in scarlet cloaks and plumed shakos, nearly 20,000 British and East India Company troops poured through the high mountain passes and re-established on the throne Shah Shuja ul-Mulk.

On the way in, the British faced little resistance. But after two years of occupation, the Afghan people rose in answer to the call for jihad and the country exploded into violent rebellion. The First Anglo-Afghan War ended in Britain’s greatest military humiliation of the nineteenth century: an entire army of the then most powerful nation in the world ambushed in retreat and utterly routed by poorly equipped tribesmen.

Reviews for the book are what you would expect for such a revered writer. Max Hastings of The Sunday Times says “This sorry saga has been recounted many times, but never that I can recall as well as by Dalrymple. He is a master story-teller, whose special gift lies in the use of indigenous sources, so often neglected by imperial chroniclers.”

Self & Health: On Looking: Eleven Walks With Expert Eyes by Alexandra Horowitz, published by Simon & Schuster.

AirMayfair picked this as a Good Read for anyone who needs to step outside of themselves, even when they’re flying on their private charter jet…

According to Horowitz you are missing at least eighty percent of what is happening around you right now. You are missing what is happening in your body, in the distance, and right in front of you. In marshalling your attention to these words, you are ignoring an unthinkably large amount of information that continues to bombard all of your senses.

This ignorance is useful: indeed, we compliment it and call it concentration. It enables us to not just notice the shapes on the page, but to absorb them as intelligible words, phrases, ideas. Alas, we tend to bring this focus to every activity we do. In so doing, it is inevitable that we also bring along attention’s companion: inattention to everything else.

This book begins with that inattention. It is not a book about how to bring more focus to your business meetings; it is not about how to multitask while flying on your private charter jet. It is about attending to the joys of the unattended, the perceived ‘ordinary’. Even when engaged in the simplest of activities – taking a walk around the block – we pay so little attention to most of what is right before us that we are sleepwalkers in our own lives. This book is about that walk around the block (or down the aisle of your private charter jet!) and how to rediscover the extraordinary things that we are missing in our ordinary activities.

Fiction: Dead Man’s Land by Robert Ryan, published by Simon & Schuster 

Deep in the trenches of Flanders Fields, men are dying in their thousands every day. So one more death shouldn’t be a surprise….

But then a body turns up with bizarre injuries, and Sherlock Holmes’ former sidekick Dr John Watson – unable to fight for his country due to injury but able to serve it through his medical expertise – finds his suspicions raised. The face has a blue-ish tinge, the jaw is clamped shut in a terrible rictus and the eyes are almost popping out of his head, as if the man had seen unimaginable horror. Something is terribly wrong.

But this is just the beginning. Soon more bodies appear, and Watson must discover who is the killer in the trenches. Who can he trust? Who is the enemy? And can he find the perpetrator before he kills again?

Surrounded by unimaginable carnage, amidst a conflict that’s ripping the world apart, Watson must for once step out of the shadows and into the limelight if he’s to solve the mystery behind the inexplicable deaths.

The post Good Reads for the Long Haul No 2: Books to Read On Your Private Charter appeared first on AirMayfair.

(photo from RBS6Nations website)

Yesterday, despite freezing conditions, England won a 12-6 victory against Ireland, their first win in over a decade in Dublin. For Round 3 they’re due to play France at Twickenham on Saturday 2rd with Scotland v Ireland at Murrayfield, Edinburgh on Sunday 24^th. As the current RBS 6 Nations champions and grand slam holders, Wales will have a tough test against the Azurri on their home soil in Rome on 23^rd February.  Round 4 of the Six Nation’s  Cup takes place on the weekend of 9^th/10^th March.  And Round 5 is the following Saturday 16^th March.

Diving

(photo from Huffington Post website) 

At the British Gas Diving Championships in Plymouth on Sunday 10th February, Olympic bronze medallist Tom Daley won his fourth 10m platform title. Despite his recent chest infection, Daley won the medal with 501 points, 125 ahead of James Denny who took the Silver, with Daniel Goodfellow taking the bronze with 340. This is a great start to the diving season for Daley, the charismatic 18 year old who is apparently designing his year around the World Championships which take place this summer in Barcelona. Daley won an Olympic 10m platform bronze and (his second) European gold medal last year.

Formula 1 – Pre-Season Tests

(photo from Stadio website)

Despite last week’s crash, Lewis Hamilton has managed to get in enough laps to admit that he’s happy with how the new Mercedes car is performing and that it is a good platform to build on. Now that he’s managed to get a feel for the car and the new team he’s working with, the priority is to ensure that he gets the kind of aerodynamic downforce for the car that he wants and needs. The Mercedes’ team’s boss, Ross Brawn admitted that the first couple of days were disappointing but since then things have been going well.  “We’ve been learning a lot about the car and about working with Lewis.”

On day four of the first pre-season test in Jerez, Spain, it was thought that world champion title holder Sebastian Vettel’s Red Bull’s ‘evolutionary car’ was looking solid – and stable – with the Renault having what appeared to be a good 10% more downforce than anyone else on the track. During the testing Hamilton came in 6^th, with Kimi Raikkonen leading in his Lotus-Renault. The rest of this season’s pre-testing is taking place at the Circuit de Catlunya in Barcelona, from February 19^th – 22^nd, and then again 28^th Feb – 3^rd March.

Getting There

If you’re trying to stay on top of all or any of the rugby matches held at Murrayfield (Edinburgh), Aviva Stadium (Dublin), Twickenham (London), Stadio Olimpico (Rome), the Millenium Stadium (Cardiff) and Stade de France (Saint-Denis), then you can of course get to any of these locations by private charter on helicopter or jet. Whether you want to travel in style or get the cheapest option available split between you and your friends, private charter is a great way to do it and not nearly as expensive as you might think.

The same goes for the Formula 1 pre-testing season in Barcelona or if you want to see Tom Daly compete at the 2013 European Diving Championships which take place from 19-25 February 2013 in Rostock, Germany. Private charter gets our athletes to where they want to go. We can get you there too.

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A typical day in the Bahamas

Worked His Magic

Musha could be indistinguishable from many other islands in the Bahamas in that it is has some lush vegetation, a few villas and beach shacks dotted around, and white sandy beaches sloping down to the dreamy turquoise shallows. But David Copperfield – yes the magician who has owned the island since 2006 – has worked his magic in characteristic BIG style in that when you come here to this curving island it is yours, all yours. The deal is that your privacy is guaranteed because you are hiring the entire island, with its 5 villas, staff, white sandy beaches, lagoons, movie theatre on the beach (Dave’s Drive In which apparently vanishes over-night while you sleep), karaoke theatre, alfresco beach shack for open-air dining and all the amenities for a reported $37,000 a night (a four-night minimum is required). The only guests will be your guests.

Eat Paradise

But your guaranteed privacy isn’t the only luxury on offer.  Before you arrive you are asked to provide an entire fact sheet of all your dietry requirements so that everything you want to eat – from fresh-caught tuna to tiramisu – is there when you want it. You are also given the key to a fantastic wine cellar and, if required, a sommelier can be brought in to arrange tastings.

However food can of course be presented to you in grand picnic style so that you can have a romantic breakfast or lunch on the beach or a full dinner laid out for you on the sand. There are all sorts of nooks and crannies on the island that lend themselves to a wonderful dining experience which can be arranged at your whim for a fantastical experience.

Marooned

By day you can either soak up the sun on Musha’s beautiful beaches, or be taken on a flat-bottom boat to a long blissful white-sand sandbar which is lapped by water on either side, where a gourmet picnic and your favourite champagne is laid out for you. If you want to be marooned, in the knowledge that not even some intruder’s private jet can land to disturb you here, and that you will be picked up as the sun sets and taken back to the lap of luxury, this would be the most perfect way in the world imaginable to do it.

But, if you’re feeling a bit more active you can windsurf, snorkel, waterski, fish, scubadive, jet ski and swim to your heart’s content. Or, if you’re in the mood for something a little drier, then volleyball, badminton or pilates can get you sweating and ready for a dip in the ocean.  Staff apparently also enjoy providing hermit crab races, shell hunts, beach tiki parties, and all sorts of kids’ activities.

Getting there is surprisingly easy. It’s only a 90 minutes flight by private jet or international air charter from Miami, or a three hour flight from either Chicago or New York to Nassau or Mosstown on Greater Exuma, and from there you take a little charter flight right onto Musha Cay’s private jet runway.

The post Even Most Of The Private Jet Set Can Only Dream of Musha Cay! appeared first on AirMayfair.

If you want to feel good when you land then you need to stay hydrated. This means that, when flying, you need to moisturise on the inside as well as the outside. We all love snacking when we’re travelling – somehow travelling is a licence to eat the bad stuff, isn’t it! – but salty snacks like pretzels, crisps and salted nuts can cause swelling and dehydration (putting bowls of nuts out in bars is a technique many bars use to make you thirsty so that you buy more drinks, remember!), so do ask your private jet in-flight staff for lots of fruits and crudites, so that you can enjoy the crunch and taste but without all the salt and calories. If you can’t resist the salty snacks then at least drink a lot of water to compensate. This doesn’t just apply to during the flight but beforehand and afterwards as well.

But even if you aren’t eating anything, you will need to drink lots of water, particularly if you’re drinking alcohol. Flying is extremely dehydrating and the more hydrated you are the better you will look and perform, and the fresher you will feel when you disembark from your private jet.

Skin-care:

the other way to stay hydrated is via the moisturiser you can apply directly onto your skin. On-flight skincare is different from what you might use on the ground. There are many fantastic skincare ranges out there, but AirMayfair is a big fan of Khiel’s with their trademark classy packaging and great creams. Khiel’s is beloved of models – male and female – who recognise it as being a great range for people who fly a lot.

Khiel’s have a great clean and shave gel called – appropriately enough – Facial Fuel Sky Flyin’ Foaming Multi-Gel. This is an all-in-one solution for your cleansing and shaving needs in that it relieves irritation while at the same time providing a smooth shave.  It’s lightweight and lathers quickly. Incorporating the vital Vitamans C and E, and with some Caffeine too, it will energise you for a great take off and ensure you are looking good when you land. To complement the gel Khiel’s do a Facial Fuel moisturiser for men too – just look for the blue packaging.

Hand Care:

You will also benefit from looking after your hands as you will inevitably feel them drying out. AirMayfair loves the Body Shop’s Hemp Hand Protector, as it comes in a cool metal tube and the hemp cream has proven – with our staff anyway – to radically improve skin texture on dry hands, and has even magically erased away mild eczema. But if you’re already shopping at Khiel’s (stocked in many franchises around the world), they also do Ultimate Strength Hand Salve which promises to make your hands feel great to those people you’re shaking hands with when you land!

Eye mask:

if you’re in search of the big sleep on your private jet or international air charter then your own eye mask and ear plugs are going to be your best friends. No matter how quiet the aircraft or how low the lights, wearing earplugs and an eye mask means you are able to completely shut out light and noise. AirMayfair has sourced the most masculine but comfortable eye mask possible! Otis Batterbee sells a variety of classy Sleep-Eye Masks designed with the global traveller in mind. Each eye mask contains a hint of sleep-inducing lavender and is backed with 100% cotton velvet so that even on a private jet, your eyes feel like they’ve been tucked in for a good night’s sleep. Sweet dreams!

The post 3 Vital Things Men Need (But Think They Don’t) When Sleeping On A Private Jet appeared first on AirMayfair.

In an aim to make your trips with us even more pleasurable we’ll introduce you to a new title each week, with titles varying from fiction to history, sport to self-help, war to romance. Never let it be said that you haven’t got anything to read during your private jet charter trips!

SELF & LIFE: Call Off the Search by Anna and Andrew Wallas, published by Modern Day Wizard Ltd

If you’re having troubles with you relationship and you need something to cheer you up on your private jet or business jet charter, then this compellingly honest book should help sort both those issues and keep you amused at the same time. In all relationships there are often big problems to work out – it can often seem like the easiest thing to do is to look elsewhere, whether you mean to or not….  In Call Off The Search, written by international bestselling author of Princess in Love Anna Pasternak and her new love and consequently new husband, Andrew Wallas, are basically saying it’s better to thrash it out with the one you’re with: they give you the how and the why. And the Wallases put their money where their mouth is too: if you want to know what ‘thrasing it out’ means, here’s a pretty amusing  example. It might help though. Worth a try?

FICTION: 36 Arguments For the Existence of God by Rebecca Goldstein, published by Atlantic Books.

Psychologist Cass Seltzer’s book, The Variety of Religious Illusion, has become a surprise runaway bestseller. Dubbed ‘the atheist with a soul’, Cass’s sudden celebrity has upended his life and brought back the ghosts of his past. Over the course of one week, Cass’s theories about our need to keep faith are borne out in ways he could never have imagined.

36 Arguments for the Existence of God is a remarkably original novel, which explores the varieties of the human religious experience in a story of obsession, consuming love, and divine genius. By turns hilarious, moving and devilishly clever, Goldstein’s novel is an exhilarating romance of heart and mind.

SCIENCE: The Genius of Dogs: Discovering the Unique Intelligence of Man’s Best Friend by Brian Hare and Vanessa Woods, published by One World Publications.

Is your dog purposefully disobeying you? Probably, and usually behind your back.

Starting with a landmark discovery in 1995 by evolutionary anthropologist Brian Hare, a wunderkind who now leads the field, scientists have learned how dogs think. Then, Hare proved that his family’s dog was not only cleverer than any fox but also cleverer than any chimp. Now Hare and science writer Vanessa Woods share all of the secrets of dogs’ uniquely evolved intelligence, how your dog is a genius, and how to understand your dog’s world.

“Based on Brian Hare’s game-changing research, The Genius of Dogs brilliantly explains the canine mind and in doing so illuminates the natural history of all intelligence. This book will captivate anyone interested in dog, ape or human mentality.” Richard Wrangham, Professor of Biological Anthropology, Harvard University, and author of Catching Fire

HISTORY: In The Hour of Victory by Sam Willis published by Atlantic Books

Between 1794 and 1815 the Royal Navy repeatedly crushed her enemies at sea in a period of military dominance that equals any in history. When Napoleon eventually died in exile, the Lords of the Admiralty ordered that the original dispatches from seven major fleet battles – The Glorious First of June (1794), St Vincent (1797), Camperdown (1797), The Nile (1798), Copenhagen (1801), Trafalgar (1805) and San Domingo (1806) – should be gathered together and presented to the Nation. These letters, written by Britain’s admirals, captains, surgeons and boatswains and sent back home in the midst of conflict, were bound in an immense volume, to be admired as a jewel of British history.

Sam Willis, one of Britain’s finest naval historians, stumbled upon this collection by chance in the British Library in 2010 and soon found out that only a handful of people knew of its existence. The rediscovery of these first-hand reports, and the vivid commentary they provide, has enabled Willis to reassesses the key engagements in extraordinary and revelatory detail, and to paint an enthralling series of portraits of the Royal Navy’s commanders at the time. In a compelling and dramatic narrative, In the Hour of Victory tells the story of these naval triumphs as never before, and allows us to hear once more the officer’s voices as they describe the battles that made Britain great.

Books can open up more of the world to you in one handful, than a round-the-world trip on your private jet. Keep reading…!

The post Good Reads for the Long Haul: Books to Read On Your Private Jet or International Air Charter appeared first on AirMayfair.

Personalised Numberplate?

He has apparently personalised the official registration to G-LCDH which stands for Lewis Carl Davidson Hamilton. In owning a private jet the former McLaren driver joins an elite ‘privet jet owners’ club such as Tom Cruise, John Travolta and Oprah Winfrey. Many Hollywood celebrities like Julia Roberts, Tom Hanks, Nicole Kidman have also customised their private jets to suit their needs.

But that’s not the only reason Hamilton can travel in style. The spacious cabin provides pretty much every luxury you would need for a happy pan-Global hopping couple, including pull-out bed, plasma screens and fully serviced galley.

Long Distance Relationship

It is thought the 28 year old bought this top-of-the-range private jet to make it easier for him and his girlfriend – Hawaiian-born singer Nicole Scherzinger (who is based in LA) – to see each other. Their 2011 split was thought to be due to the pressure of maintaining a long-distance relationship and – perhaps consequently - Hamilton recalls the 2011 Formula 1 season as his ‘worst’. But with his new private jet at their disposal the longs distances to travel before seeing each other should become a lot less challenging. The private jet is thought to be available for charter when Hamilton is not using it.

Hamilton Unveils 2013 Mercedes Car

(Photograph Copyright Getty Images)

Hamilton begins with his new Formula 1 team, Mercedes, in September. Having unveiled the new car he is to be driving for the 2013 season reports are coming in that the new car strongly resembles last year’s Mercedes which started the 2012 season well but which weakened as the season progressed.

Sounding like something out of the Whacky Races, the McLaren/Ferrari-style rear-end has apparently been worked to use exhaust gases for aerodynamic effect. But the nose and the car’s overall general appearance are very similar to the 2012 car.  Opinion is divided as to whether Mercedes’ new car is going to get Hamilton onto the Champion’s podium this year with some saying that Hamilton’s reticent attitude about joining his new team evidence that he has little confidence in it. But perhaps Hamilton is maturing and learning to bide his time without making great pronouncements.

Committment

Let’s not forget that Hamilton’s move to Mercedes is the biggest and most exciting move in the Formula 1 driver market for several years. Considered by most as the fastest driver in the world, Hamilton has taken a massive gamble in switching from McLaren to Mercedes (formerly Brawn). McLaren’s success rate versus Mercedes puts the move into question for some although Alonso has publicly spoken about his conviction that Hamilton is going to win races in 2013 with Mercedes.. After all, in order to accommodate Hamilton, Mercedes ditched Schumacher. And although Schumacher had had a disappointing one-podium-finish in three years, both Hamilton and Mercedes must have been very confident that they are going to achieve great things together. Mercedes – in an echo of the long-term achievements promised to Schumacher by Ferrari back in the late 90s, which they subsequently achieved – have promised Hamilton that, with long term commitment, they too can achieve the dream. Watch this space.

The post Lewis Hamilton Buys Private Jet & Unveils F1 2013 Car appeared first on AirMayfair.

Underwater is just as stunning. The Andaman’s beautiful turquoise waters are thronging with beautiful fish life giving it a reputation as being one of the best places in the world to dive which is why some lucky diving groups charter a private jet to take them there just for that experience alone. Apparently you can also swim with elephants off the beach – so if you’re after a memorable experience to coincide with your proposal of marriage, perhaps you should give swimming with elephants a go!

If you want state-of-the-art nightclubs to party in all night then this probably isn’t the destination for you although partying is of course available and encouraged! But if you want to party on the sand by a flaming torch light, if you want to brush the cobwebs away and get back to some easy-living where you get up to swim before you eat breakfast, with nothing to look at except the sea, sun and sky, then the Andaman’s glorious beaches are for you. The Andamans will remind you of how great the simple life can be. It is a place to get back to nature, to kick back and enjoy the person you are with, to see some spectacular sunsets from deserted beaches, and breathe.

AirMayfair stayed at Barefoot on Havelock, an ecologically friendly but very classy resort that nestles in among its own woods. It has its own ethos of respect and awareness for the environment and pledges to give back to its environment in every way it can. The resort is just a few paces away from what is reputed to be one of the world’s best beaches (AirMayfair agrees!). There is nothing commercial on the beach, no signs, no-one trying to sell you anything although there are some modest shacks at the far end of the beach for a fresh coconut or mango

 Like the other privileged visitors to the Barefoot resort, AirMayfair stayed in one of the elegantly designed wood and thatch cottages which have a large circular interior with four poster bed, an en suite bathroom and balcony. After a hard day’s diving or swimming, nothing is more relaxing than retiring to your cottage for a bottle of beer or a massage. Or both!

Getting to the Andamans by private jet can be done from wherever you are in the world. Private jets often fly in from places like Bangkok, Kolkata, New Delhi and further afield. To get from Port Blair – where the airport is situated – to any of the islands, whether by helicopter charter or ferry, will depend on your situation and the availability. However you get there though, you are guaranteed a beautiful and peaceful haven from modern life.

And although you’re probably thinking that getting a booking here is too late for Valentine’s Day, we were actually suggesting that you propose this holiday destination on Valentine’s Day… and save up the big proposal for when you get there.  If proposing on a deserted beach in front of a glorious sunset sounds good, this is the perfect understated luxury destination.

The post Arrive in the Andaman Islands by Private Jet and Change Your Life appeared first on AirMayfair.

A company spokesman says the HX-1 employs contra-rotating rotors and is equipped with a fly-by-wire control system. The HX-1 is also battery powered and equipped with an electric engine that is noise and pollution free. It can fly up to 62 mph/100 kmph for around 30 minutes at a time although AirMayfair presumes that the manufacturers will try to extend this so that those living in the stockbroker belt can enjoy their daily commute into the city – whether London, New York or Tokyo!

This all-electric helicopter can be operated by the person inside the machine, or – more excitingly – by remote control. It is tempting to imagine the machine as a cunning means for yet another villain to try and kill 007 in spectacular fashion – flying him straight into the nearest alligator pit, smashing him against an iconic tall building or sending him into a real skyfall over Niagra Falls. (Who knew that thinking up ways of killing James Bond could be so much fun!). But as it turns out, HX-1’s ability to be controlled remotely makes it an invention that can help to rescue individuals from burning or crumbling buildings during man-made or natural disasters. It can also help to supply medicines, medical attention and food in disastrous situations to people in otherwise inaccessible places due to earthquakes, tsunamis, war etc.

Apparently Hirobo is also hoping to develop two seater versions as their market research apparently shows great potential for mass production. Within the next ten years their domestic market alone for this kind of technology will grow to 10 billion yen. AirMayfair wonders if this means our helicopter charter business will have a whole new arm to play with.

AirMayfair is also excited about The Flyboard® which is a sort of aquatic hybrid between a jet ski and a jet pack that means you can dive in and out of the ocean like a dolphin, reaching heights of around 10 metres. Designed by the brilliantly named Franky Zapata, and launched in Australia a few weeks ago, The Flyboard® comes with an Electronic Management Kit which allows operation of the PWC throttle, kill switch and starter from the Flyboard®. Apparently this method allows for better flight precision and Zapata claims that after about 20 minutes of using it for the first time you can already move underwater like a dolphin and challenge gravity like superman. Zapata says “The Flyboard® encompasses all my passions: the jetski, ski, snowboard and acrobatic dives.” He claims that that learning to use it is very intuitive, similar to learning to ride a bike, waterski, surfing, skating or any other activity that requires a little balance.

Once you are experienced enough perhaps you’ll be able to hop from your Flyboard® onto the HX-1 that your butler has conveniently flown out to you from the safety of the beach. James Bond eat your heart out.

The post AirMayfair recommends a couple of Toys For the Boys appeared first on AirMayfair.

Eclipse

Evidently Abramovich likes his toys. With 2 helicopter pads, 20 private jet skis, two swimming pools, several hot tubs, 6,000sq ft of living space, its own cinema, its own gorgeous disco hall and even it’s own submarine, this has got to be one of the most exclusive gadgets in the world. Apparently 70 crew members are needed to operate the yacht. If you fancy a piece of the action she’s reputed to be available for private charter for $4 Million a week, plus around $650,000 for a fill-up.  Enjoy!

Tropical Island Paradise

Yacht Island Design were given a brief to create a yacht that felt like a tropical island paradise, while maintaining the look of a modern yacht design. Amazingly they have actually managed to incorporate all sorts of whimsy that you wouldn’t credit being associated with a multi-million pound yacht, like mud hut cabanas and its own private beach cove. The boat has a massive ocean-view swimming pool but would you expect a yacht’s swimming pool to be able to be fed from the water cascading down from the waterfall cascading down from a volcano? And yet, despite all the apparent gimmicks, the boat is stunning and can still guarantee that its owners and guests will travel in style.

Tropical Island Paradise is supposed to be able to accommodate up to 10 guests, all of whom will be able to be flown in by helicopter charter (the ship has its own landing pad) and can party the night away at a huge bar situated behind a group of beach cabanas. A cinema, library, games room and gym offer indoor relaxation. Exciting though it is, to our knowledge this whacky boat is clearly plausible but as yet still a concept. Like the rest of the world, we look forward to seeing the real thing.

Adastra

This 42.5m Power Trimaran looks like something Batman would sail in if he and Robin had ever had a chance to find their sea legs. Privately commissioned by a Chinese couple, and designed by another British yacht designer, John Shuttleworth, it was launched in China 2012 and was lauded by Boat International as “One of the world’s most amazing super yachts, that could spell the future for efficient long range cruising.”

Shuttleworth’s great challenge was to produce an aesthetically beautiful yacht that would have all the luxury and sea faring qualities expected of a super yacht but that would also be economical in its long range fuel consumption. Hosting up to 9 guests and 6 crew members, it is comparatively small, and with no landing pad you won’t be getting there by helicopter charter or private jet. But while the Adastra may not have all of Abramovich’s toys, it benefits from its truly awesome profile, and indisputable class.

The post From Private Jets to Super Yachts appeared first on AirMayfair.

Tuesday 12^th March – Champion Day

The Stan James Champion Hurdle is one of the most important hurdle races of the season. Held on the first day of The Festival, this hurdle race, along with six other fantastic races, makes the atmosphere something you have to experience.  Last season’s winner, Rock on Ruby, might be back to defend his crown but there will inevitably be some formidable challengers among the younger horses this year.

Wednesday 13^th March – Ladies’ Day

Whether Ladies’ Day at the Cheltenham Festival is more about the racing action on the racecourse or the style in the enclosures, whatever you’re drawn to the spectacle is worth fighting through the crowds for.  Ladies Day 2012 was one of the most stylish occasions on the racing calendar.  Sensational hats, elegant dresses and some very high heels made it a wonderful day of fun and fashion. First-timers might not know that there are highly coveted 3 Fashion Awards:  the best dressed lady, the lady with the best hat, and the lady with the best accessories. They are selected by a panel of judges during a live final in the afternoon. We don’t think they make contenders jog around the paddock…

Tips for Ladies’ Day that we recommend are:

1. Arrive early to get noticed! Fashion Scouts are out and about as soon as the gates open in the morning at 10.30a.m
2. Get a big group of friends together to qualify for group discounts for 15 people or more. Once your number is confirmed, call the Cheltenham Festival or visit their website to get the discount.
3. Helicopter charter can be much cheaper and more cost effective than you think, especially if you and your group of friends are able to split the cost. You can dodge all the crowds, travel in style and can even be picked up and dropped off door to door if circumstances allow (that means literally be picked up in your garden if it’s big enough). All you need is the right helicopter charter brokers to get the right price and to work out the logistics for you. Helicopter charter means  knowing that you will arrive with your hats, make-up, heels and dresses in immaculate condition (unless you drink too much champagne during your flight of course!)
4. And finally, book lunch at one of the many hospitality areas at the racecourse and enjoy Ladies’ Day in style. Visit the website to get the contact details for the hospitality team who will do everything they can to accommodate your requirements.

With all the excitement of how gorgeous the women look, it can be easy to forget that there is some stunning action on the track. Ladies’ Day hosts The Queen Mother Champion Chase which, for many, is the highlight of the Festival as it’s the chance to see the best two-miles racers thrashing it out around the famous course.

March 14^th – St Patrick’s Thursday

Celebrating St Patrick’s Day a couple of days early, the Ladbrokes World Hurdle and the Ryanair Chase are the main attractions today. The Cheltenham Festival also raises big money for Cancer Research UK, so a charity race will be held to raise further funds in 2013.

March 15^th – Cheltenham Gold Cup Day

The Cheltenham Gold Cup is the highlight of what is widely regarded as the best day’s racing of the year.  During the day there are 6 other races, including two more Grade 1 events that people come the world over to see, and three highly competitive handicaps.

As well as all the racing there are plenty of things to do and see that ensure you have a fantastic time. There are celebrity interviews, racecourse-side entertainment, the parade of champions and of course the legendary Festival Shopping Village. Enjoy your festival!

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Desperate for a reminder that the world isn’t always heavy with white skies, snow and ice? AirMayfair has visited the British Virgin Islands, and while we think we are pretty well travelled, we haven’t been to many more relaxing places in the world than this beautiful group of islands. The BVI is a British overseas territory, located in the Caribbean, to the east of Puerto Rico. It has beautiful beaches, lovely people, warm turquoise sea, emerald green lagoons, fantastic snorkeling, great diving, world-class sailing, amazing bars, laid back skies… What else do you need to really and truly get away from it all?

The Islands

The islands are made up of Tortola, Jost van Dyke, Virgin Gorda and Anegada along with 50 other islands and cays. (Cays are sandy islands that sit on top of coral reefs.) The main island, Tortola, is only about 12 miles long and 3 miles wide, but that is still a big amount of island to lose yourself in. Hire a jeep to drive around the island so that you can really take in the beautiful scenery that’s on offer, or grab your sneakers and head off into the hills to look at some of the relics from the islands’ mixed past. But perhaps the best way to experience the islands…is from the sea.

One of the World’s Great Sailing Destinations

The British Virgin Islands are known as one of the world’s greatest sailing destination so you can always hire a yacht and spend a couple of weeks touring the splendid coves and bays that these 50-something islands have to offer. Many charter a private jet to get here and then charter a sailboat so that they can access some of the very more remote islands. Since 1972 the British Virgin Islands have hosted the Spring Regatta. Over seven days sailing races are held throughout the islands to various destinations. There are of course sailing clubs, marinas, bars, outfitters, shops and restaurants which cater for the sailing crowd.

This Year’s Spring Regatta – March 25^th – 31^st 2013

The BVI Spring Regatta a Caribbean Regatta that has a real party spirit. Whether you are a seasoned sailor, or a novice crewing on a friend’s boat, or somewhere in between, you will have the time of your life here. Starting at Nanny Cay, the Regatta begins with The Round Tortola Race (Tortoal being the main island). The next day is the Island Hope Race and then it’s a Beachy Day Layday at Nanny Cay. After that it claims to play host to some of the best racing to be had in the Caribbean. Dependent on your experience and means, you can take part in the entire six days of the BVI Spring Regatta & Sailing Festival, or just the first or second half.

Weather

A tropical climate moderated by trade winds predominates, which means that, fortunately, temperatures vary little – between 29 – 32 degrees in the summer. With February and March as the driest months that also play host to the Spring Regatta, we recommend hiring a private jet if you’re not already booked to go. If you’re going to treat yourself to the BVI adventure, you may as well travel in style… Happy sailing!

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Relax In Mother Nature

If you long for the simple life, but enjoy being able to travel in style, then Dunston Hot Springs is for you. This immaculately restored Victorian mining-town is nestled deep in the San Juan Mountains of the Colorado Rockies. Getting there is easy: you can go by private jet to one of the four nearby airports, or get a commercial flight to Denver and then use either private jet charter and/or helicopter hire to get to Dunton.

The town sits on 200 acres of Land (about the size of Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens in total!) but Dunton owns  1,600 acres of land within the valley giving them 8 miles of private fishing water on  the West Fork of the Dolores river. At Dunton you can choose which of the many beautifully decorated, heated, handmade log cabins to stay in, each with their own character, and separate from each other. Once there, you can enjoy the peace and splendour of the natural scenery, the wonder of the natural hot springs, the great adventures on offer and the fantastic service.

 The Springs

It is likely that the Ute Indians used to laze around and play in the restorative hot springs long before the poor miners used to wash away a day’s hard labour.  Apparently there are six ways to take to the waters, which range in temperature from 85°F to 106°F. You can try it as it was meant to be – in the springs, at source, underneath the night sky. In the pool outside the 19th century Bathhouse or inside the Bathouse, in a pool behind the Dunton Store cabin, inside the Well House cabin or out on the river at Christoph’s spring. Any of those sound good to us!

Relax

It seems like it would be impossible not to relax at Dunston. Set in incredible scenery, the fresh air, woods, rivers and rolling grass slopes are sure to soothe away any stress you may bring with you. You can spend all day out in the fresh air, and then retreat to the Springs to be pampered with massages and to wallow in the natural hot springs.

Food

The food at Dunton will pamper and enrich you too. The chef uses local organic foods where possible. This includes fruit and vegetables from Dunton’s own vegetable garden, orchard trees, farm and vineyard. Their lamb is raised on meadows that host wild mushrooms like boletus and chanterelles, and the wines are equally rich and wholesome. As they say themselves the wines they offer are “first-growth Bordeaux, California classics, super Tuscans and lusty Aussie favorites.”

Adventures

You can travel in style through this wilderness in a variety of ways!  Riding, skiing, mountain biking, helicopter skiing, snow shoeing, hiking, camping, fly fishing, river rafting, kayaking, rock climing and more are all on offer. Interesting archaelogical sites are within a short drive, and the desert is not far.

History

It seems Dunton, Colorado was originially a mining-camp established in 1885 and consisted of log structures stretching for about a mile along the West Dolores River. The mines were located about half a mile down the stream from the community. They enjoyed a high point for a few years in the late 1800s, but it was deserted by 1918. It was a cattle ranch for about half a century and then operated as a ‘dude ranch’ for tourists.  The current owners brought Dunton in 1994 and set about renovating the entire town, which took seven years.

Getting There

Dunton Hot Springs lies across the mountain from Telluride and they are open all year. The entire town can be reserved for private use for up to 44 people. All meals, the hot springs, screening room, etc. are included. Transport can be arranged and many of their clients prefer to travel in style either on private jet to one of the local airports or via private jet charter. Helicopter hire is also popular, and necessary if you want to go helicopter skiing! Whether you are flying in by private jet or helicopter the staff at Dunton will cater to your every need.

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Rio Carnival in its full glory

The Carnival in Brazil’s Rio de Janiero is the biggest carnival in the world with at least 500,000 visitors every year. Carnival is celebrated throughout Brazil’s towns and villages, and in other Catholic countries around the world. The outrageous glamour and euphoria of the Rio de Janiero Carnival means it is regarded worldwide as one of the most impressive artistic global events. This is why so many people fly in by private jet.

History

Most European cultures have always celebrated the rites of spring in one form or another. When the New World begun it continued these celebrations and it was the Portuguese who initiated the concept of carnival in Rio in the mid 1800s, influenced by the Parisian and Venetian bourgeoisie who had long enjoyed the excitement of masquerade parties. With the fantastic ingredients of African and American music and cultures added to the mix, the Brazilian Carnival took on a life and a beat of its own. For just a few days one’s normal social role in life could be masked by disguises and costumes – a very liberating experience which is still evident to this day, especially for those many hundreds of thousands of Brazilians who still live in Rio’s slums.  For them Carnival is often the most important event of the year, for which all their spare time is addressed in either practicing their performance or making the many thousands of costumes.

Each year the festival begins with the crowning of the Fat King Momo. The mayor presents him with a giant gold and silver key, which then signifies the beginning of Carnival and the licence for the euphoric event to begin – a non-stop all-night all-day party. If you have never visited Brazil before Carnival is a great way of getting to know the country’s culture at it’s best. Carnival sums up everything that is great about Brazil, and that it loves about itself.

Get to the best by Private Jet

Rio is famous for its beautiful people, colonial architecture, literature and fantastic beaches like Copacabana and Ipanema. But there are other wonderful things to see in the city like Sugar Loaf Mountain and the Christ the Redeemer statue. Further down the cost is Paraty where the annual literary festival Flip takes place amid stunning scenery and turquoise seas. Brazil is an enormous country with so much to see and explore including the Amazon rainforest making it the perfect place to visit by private jet.

Sport

The Carnival happens every year, but in 2014, from the 12^th June to 13^th July, the 20^th FIFA World Cup will take place with the feted Maracana Stadium playing host to the best footballers in the world. By 2014 preparations for the 2016 Olympics will be well underway too.

Get booked

For all these events land slots and accommodation are already getting booked up. So please call us to make sure that you and your family, client and colleagues get to Rio on time – either this year or in the coming years!  We can make your transition smooth and direct, with an approximately 11.5 hour non-stop flight in a jet with spacious interiors, complete top-of-the-range entertainment and IT systems, on-board cuisine, washrooms and big baggage capacity. We can arrange 5 star accommodation, airport transfers and your very own guide and translator, should you need one.

Please call us on 0207 499 2233 to discuss your arrangements.

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Anywhere In One Day

With private long range jets now able to cover up to 6,800 nautical miles on a non-stop flight (with the right conditions) one of the most popular reasons our clients choose private jet charter is to save time. Even if conditions necessitate one fuel stop you can reach almost anywhere in the world in one day on a private long range business jet. This means you and your staff can be back in the office while your competitors are still slugging it out at passport control…

First Class Working Conditions

Working in your own executive flying office of course has its advantages. You can work right up until the moment you land, and on executive jets you can be confident that you will be connected through high-speed WiFi and satellite communications system throughout your journey. Top of the range fully-comprehensive entertainment centres will also be in place, and we can arrange for any on-flight assistance or IT equipment you may need, and at short notice too.

Depending on the size and quality of the long range jet you charter there will be space for separate working and dining areas, a bathroom, and may well include a private bedroom. Long range jets are designed with CEOs, VIPs and Heads of State in mind, so the bespoke cabin interiors will reflect the top of the range luxury expected by those people on these occasions. The ample space provided means entourage and bodyguards can comfortably be catered for too.

An End To Stressful Travel

Having no commercial air travel queues and security checks to negotiate and endure saves a lot of time and stress. We know from our own experience, and our clients’ experience, how travelling by private jet can transform the very difficult and often isolating process of travelling around the world, into something comfortable, convenient and familiar. The fully reclining  chairs mean you can sleep on board in comfort, and our in-flight staff will get to know your needs and preferences. Some of the executives that we know have even felt the benefit in their personal lives as it means they spend less time away from home, and return relaxed and rested, rather than stressed and exhausted.

Limit Your Exposure

If discreet travel is an issue then discretion is another big advantage of chartering a private jet. Executive travellers are privileged in that flying in and out of countries on private jets limits their exposure. You can make your own ground-transport arrangements and can usually be picked up by helicopter, car or jeep right next to your plane. Also, as your private charter jet will not carry a company logo, you will be travelling incognito, and with no other passengers except your workforce to consider, there is little to no chance of being recognised as you travel.

We look forward  to hearing from you. Please call on 0207 499 2233 or contact us at charters@airmayfair.com.

Happy New Year from AirMayfair.

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According to an article in China Daily the demand for private aircraft is high and rising 15 years after China’s first private jet hit the sky, with the total amounting to 126 according to an official in charge of general aviation at China’s Civil Aviation Authority. Only five years ago there were 30 jets, but in the last few years another 80 were delivered to China. According to Jason Liao, CEO and chairman of China Business Aviation Group, a major business craft dealer in the country, numbers are expected to increase by 25% per year from here on in.

Earlier this year Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer sold a premium private jet to Jackie Chan. This must have been a sweet deal for both parties because Chan is reputed to have personalised his new Legacy 650 jet with a custom designed dragon insignia and the letters “JC JET”, and Embraer invited the much-loved and well-connected Chan to be their publicity ambassador in China. Nice move.

NIGERIA

Despite the global recession private jet ownership in Nigeria has apprently grown by 650 per cent, from 20 jets in 2007 to over 150 jets in 2012. And according to website www.informationnigeria.org more Pentecostal jets are going to be bought. In response to widespread criticism of pastors (yes – men of God) acquiring jets, the National Vice President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria Bishop Francis Wale Oke stated in an article published in a national daily that this is only the beginning of the acquisition of private jets by Pentecostal pastors. Oke is quoted as saying “They have seen a few jets. They ain’t seen nothing yet! More of us will still buy and maintain our jets because, by the mercy of God, we have been given the wisdom to do so.”  If you say so…

MIDDLE EAST

This year Saudi prince and business tycoon Alwaleed bin Talal, chairman and founder of Kingdom Holding Company with an estimated wealth of around 18 billion US dollars, took delivery of a behemoth jetliner – the A380 double decker. Ordered five years ago, it is said to be the world’s most expensive personal jet, apparently with a final price in excess of $500 million. The reason for the high-price? It is literally a flying palace with original plans that included garage space for two Rolls-Royces, a rotating prayer room so that it is able to point towards Mecca no-matter where the plane is pointing, a holding pen for hawks and even stabling for horses and camels. For Asian buyers Airbus recently released their interior design concept for the corporate version of the A320. Called Phoenix the plane’s interior design revolves around a large round table to reflect the dynamic of Asian family life, and features red hues and Asian patterns for that homely feel.

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1. Our sense of indignation about Tom Cruise helicoptering in on Westminster (let’s call it patriotically miffed) is a teeny bit soothed by the fact that the gorgeous and very British Emily Blunt is also starring in All You Need Is Kill to be released in 2014. This is the first time that a helicopter has ever landed in Trafalgar square but it begs the question why should this honour have gone to the pint-sized American actor and not to, 007… ?

2. Which brings us to Her Majesty the Queen ‘parachuting’ into the Olympics 2012, having been brought there in a helicopter with Secret Agent Bond. He accompanied her as they leapt out of the helicopter, but didn’t land in the stadium. We do think Bond should have been a bit more gentlemanly and perhaps considered helicopter charter as a more graceful and convenient way for Her Royal Highness to visit the games

3. Royalty and helicopters are a happy marriage these days with Prince William working for the Royal Navy’s Search & Rescue branch. This August he saved the life of a girl in a dramatic sea rescue after she got into trouble trying to save her own sister.  Flight Lieutenant Wales and 30, as Prince William is known in the RAF flew the Sea King to the rescue scene at Silver Bay, Anglesey, North Wales where his crew mate helped to pull the girl to safety. The prince graduated as a fully operational RAF search and rescue pilot in the autumn of 2010. And while some may think he’s eluding the horrors of war by joining Search & Rescue in the UK, AirMayfair feels he’s got a big enough fight on his hands training to be the future king of England in today’s world.

4. After Osama Bin Laden’s death there was a lot of conjecture as to how the US forces managed to ambush the World’s Most Wanted man in the dead of night. One of the answers put forwards was that the Seals (the American version of the SIS) used previously unknown ‘stealth‘ helicopters. For clues as to how these helicopters managed to arrive silently and evade radar, helicopter experts examined photographs of a helicopter that the Seals had tried to destroy post-attack in their attempt to destroy the evidence). It may be some time before we ever know how they did it, but if ‘stealth’ is the future of helicopter charter AirMayfair may hear first.

5. Although filmed almost 40 years ago, AirMayfair is certain that its readers do not need any explanation of the importance of the helicopter in Apocalypse Now. Apocalypse Now was inspired by Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness and directed by the great Francis Ford Coppola to become one of the most brilliant films of all time, in a cluster of late 1970s movies about the Vietnam War. Best seen on the big screen for the full impact of just about everything, but particularly to show off the helicopters to their awe-inspiring best, check out the Ride of the Valkyries scene.

AirMayfair would like to know what are your most memorable helicopter moments…  The best submission by 1^st April 2013 receives a free 20 minute lesson at our Peterborough flying school.

The post AirMayfair’s Top 5 Memorable Helicopter Moments appeared first on AirMayfair.

AirMayfair can’t help but return to some old favourites and for those of you who have already been Havelock in the Andaman Islands in the Bay of Bengal, you will know why this partcular island is so loved. Despite the flight from Calcutta to Port Blair island, and then the half hour ferry-taxi to Havelock, the lengthy journey is well worth the effort. Pristine sands, stunning coral reefs, extraordinary forests, swimming elephants and a vibrant humble local life will persuade you that a fortnight in Havelock is like returning to childhood. If your riches and modern life are weighing you down, cast yourself free on this beautiful desert island. Havelock is perfect if you’re looking for an unpretentious hideaway on one of the world’s last undeveloped tropical islands. Private jet hire will take you to Kolkata where you can spend a few nights in the Oberoi Grand in the centre of that amazing city, before leaving for the Andaman islands.

AirMayfair is a great fan of Morocco. Just a few hours’ flight from the UK by private jet this wonderful country offers you the chance to entire into a different age where limousines ride shoulder-to-shoulder with donkey carts. Although the modern world is encroaching fast, AirMayfair recommends a trip to the medieval city of Fez to blow the winter cobwebs away. Read Edith Wharton’s ‘Morocco’ on your private plane to get you in the mood before you wander the streets of the medina. Be prepared for some sights and sounds that will make you wonder whether you are really in the 21^st century, and then relax in one of the most beautiful hotels in the world, Riad Sheherazade. Once home to a vizier, the Riad is a beautiful nineteenth century palace that is a stunning example of how beautiful and successful the marriage between Spanish and Moorish style can be. You can eat outdoors, relax by the pool, enjoy your cocktails and your book surrounded by the wonderful scent of the orange flowers in a walled-courtyard bordered by palm trees and lined with jasmine. Have the stresses of your life scrubbed away in your own personal in-house hamam.  Superb.

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If you fancy an extreme holiday where you can visit markets in the early hours of the morning, followed by surfing, riding, scuba-diving, paragliding or 4-wheel drive tours during the day, then AirMayfair would like to suggest Reunion Island as a holiday destination. A former French colony (currently a French départment) and now one of the outermost reaches of the Eurozone, it was declared a UNESCO world heritage site in 2010 and  could be the perfect place for an exciting holiday in an exotic location. With a large choice of accommodation to choose from – think luxury yurts on yoga retreats to mountain hideaway hotels – there are plenty of places from which to savour the wonderful sunsets.

Reunion has the highest mountain in the Indian Ocean, together with lush forests and long golden beaches. It harbours spectacular wildlife, coral reefs, superb waterfalls and altogether, due to its strange topography, has an amazing and unique landscape. It also hosts a fantastic array of wildlife including sea turtles and dolphins that live on and around the coast, and humpback whales who migrate north to the island from the Antarctic to breed and feed. They can be seen every year from June to September.

Located in the Indian Ocean, about 800km to the south-east of Madagascar and 200km to the west of Mauritius, Reunion Island is also known as the Intense Island or the Island of Sensations because it has such a varied, rugged and green landscape. Similar to Hawaii – in that both islands are perched above hotspots on the Earth’s crust – Reunion’s volcano is one of the most active in the world, and is a ‘shield’ volcano which rises more than 8,632 feet above sea level. The last eruption was in 2010!

And while La Reunion’s mountains have a temperate climate, the west coast is normally dry with long, golden sandy beaches, and the east coast has tropical vegetation and black volcanic beaches. So for those looking for a varied and unusual holiday, Reunion is a fantastic place to explore on foot, in the water and in the air.

Explorers looking to have an adventure on Reunion will be happy to hear that the island is welcoming Eurocopter’s EC130 B4 helicopter for helicopter charter business. Noted for its excellent cabin visibility and enhanced safety due its fenestron rotor, the EC130 B4 is also one of the quietest in its class. Operating at 8.5 decibles below the ICAO standard explains why it recently received permission to fly over the Grand Canyon too.

Thanks to the new Eurocopter you can experience the thrill of your own private helicopter charter while enjoying the stunning views of the island’s four huge and amazing waterfalls. You can also fly over the heart of the first volcano and then fly back over a lagoon.

With volcanic activity to monitor, wildlife to observe and tourists to transport, the Eurocopter’s operators, Corail Hélicoptères, will no doubt be busy year round with helicopter charter and aerial work. Whether flying over the lagoons, coast or volcano, the Eurocopter will ensure that Corail’s thousands of annual passengers will travel in style. See you there!

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