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Wristwatch Review: Olivia Burton Rainbow Bee Demi Parma Violet & Gold Watch

2020-10-24T20:05:00.002+01:00

Olivia Burton is a British Accessories brand founded in 2012. The brand creates watches, jewellery, accessories and home fragrance. In 2017, the Olivia Burton brand joined the Movado Group which boasts a good number of wrist watch brands in its stables including Ebel, Lacoste, Hugo Boss, Tommy Hilfiger and of course Movado.

This review based on my personal experience. I bought this wrist watch 7 weeks ago as a casual fashion accessory and my purchase was based solely on its eye-catching design.

The Rainbow Bee Demi Parma Violet & Gold wrist watch is a beautiful, colurful piece. It has got a violet strap and white dial adorned with eleven Swarovski crystals markers of various vivid rainbow colours. The yellow gold ion-plated case is 34 mm in diameter. It has got a water resistance of 1 ATM and quartz movement.

The parma violet leather strap feels flimsy to touch and this fact made me a little hesitant during the purchase but I went ahead anyway because the purpose of buying the watch as I explained earlier, was to have a casual, colourful, fashionable watch and not an investment or long-term use timepiece. I was also concerned about the possibility of the Swarovski crystal markers falling out of place.

Well I have worn this wrist watch occasionally for the past seven weeks and my concern about the somewhat weak strap turned out to be justified because the leather strap has already split into two length-wise. The watch has been well taken care of and the straps have not been exposed to water, adverse conditions or beauty products and chemicals. The wrist watch is also stored in a jewellery box. I believe seven weeks is too early for any well cared for wrist watch to start showing evidence of wear and tear like this even on children's' watches.

Apart from the issue with the wrist watch strap, everything else with the wrist watch looks and works fine. The Swarovski crystals are still in place, so the flimsy strap would probably not deter someone who really wants to buy it as they can explore the possibility of changing the strap to one of substantial quality.

Photo Credit: Olivia Burton website and Amy O

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#IEFabLife: The Luxury Lifestyle of Marcelo

2020-07-02T10:54:00.001+01:00

Today's #IEFablife interview features 26 year old Marcelo who will give us an insight into what luxury lifestyle actually means. Enjoy.

Ikoyi Elite: Briefly describe yourself.
Marcelo: My name is Marcelo and I am 26 years old. I grew up in Mallorca but have lived in London for nearly 10 years now.

Ikoyi Elite: What does luxury mean to you?
Marcelo: I think luxury to me means something that is not readily available to everyone. This can be an object or an experience at ANY price point.

Ikoyi Elite: What luxury item can you not live without?
Marcelo: I am not sure if this qualifies but my perfume, Tom Ford Noir de Noir. I have worn it for 3 years now and people now recognize it as my scent.

Ikoyi Elite: What is your favourite vacation destination and why?
Marcelo: I love Madrid. Great food, great people great atmosphere. However, Rome is a close second.

Ikoyi Elite: If you were to pick a restaurant which would it be and what dish and wine would you order?
Marcelo: My favourite restaurant is Amazonico in Madrid (the London branch is terrible in comparison). I don't drink wine but in terms of dishes, you HAVE to order the "Chocolate al Moctezuma".

Ikoyi Elite: What is your beauty regimen like?
Marcelo: Super simple. Morning - Wash my face with water, light weight moisturiser - La Roche Posey is my usual but during lockdown I ran out and started using the Nivea body cream and its been great.

Night time - Cleanse (Dermaquest BHA cleanser or Dr. Emanuel Paleco ), hyaluronic acid serum (Dr Emanuel Paleco), retinol 0.5 prescription strength and moisturiser (same as morning).

Ikoyi Elite: What are your favourite designer brands?
Marcelo: I am a fan of Christian Dior and Fendi. I used to be a Louis Vuitton fan but its gone downhill in my opinion.

Ikoyi Elite: What is your favourite movie?
Marcelo: In Time by Andrew Niccol.

Ikoyi Elite: What luxury vehicle(s) do you own?
Marcelo: In London I ride the tube like most people. I think owning a car here is pointless as it takes longer to get anywhere and then parking is a nightmare however, in Mallorca I have a Mercedes A class AMG 2019 model.

Ikoyi Elite: What is your most expensive luxury item?
Marcelo: Probably something passed down to me from my parents.

Ikoyi Elite: Where do you like to party?
Marcelo: Night Clubs.

Ikoyi Elite: What is your real estate preference? Hotel-style penthouse or country estate?
Marcelo: Hotel-style penthouse 100%

Ikoyi Elite: What advice do you have for anyone aspiring to live a luxurious decadent lifestyle?
Marcelo: Don't spend more than you can afford. Spend within your means. I set aside 400 pounds from my pay check every month and that pot of money goes towards my purchases (this does not include travel).

@marceloserra

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Luxury Healthy Foods

2020-06-09T22:40:00.001+01:00

Caviar

Baerii Caviar £210 for 125g

Caviar is the pickled roe of the sturgeon fish, a one-of-a-kind rare, luxurious and exclusive food which is considered as one of the world’s great delicacies. The most famous caviar is from the beluga sturgeon, found in the Caspian and the Black Sea. It takes up to two decades for the beluga sturgeon to reach maturity and it’s adult size. Another rare roe is that from the albino sturgeon which is now almost extinct in its natural habitat.

Red caviar improves lactation

Caviar is a source of a significant number of vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, E, D, B6, B12, Iron, Magnesium, phoosphorus, calcium, Selenium and omega 3, which helps to promote a healthy nervous, circulatory and immune system. Caviar is also rich in amino acids, micro and macronutrients.

Caviar is an easily digestible protein; a 25g serving can provide half of the body's daily protein requirement. Caviar helps to strengthen bone tissue and immune system.

White Caviar

Caviar could be a therapeutic diet for unwell people. Caviar is invaluable in skin conditions treatment, blood clotting prevention, normal visual function development and maintaining the nervous system and brain functions. Red caviar may increase lactation and improve the quality of breast milk in a breastfeeding mother if small portions are eaten daily.

Oyster

Oysters are molluscs that live in saltwater habitats. These mollusks offer a lot of health benefits. Oysters are low in calories yet provide lots of nutrients such as: protein, fat, vitamin D, thiamine (vitamin B1), niacin (vitamin B3),vitamin B12, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, copper, manganese and selenium. They also contain all the 9 essential amino acids. Zinc is essential to male fertility and is essential for testosterone production; omega-3 fatty acids are considered a healthy fat or cholesterol. They reduce the chance of plaque accumulation in the blood vessels and improve overall cardiovascular health. Oysters also boost dopamine, a hormone that increases libido in both men and women.

Oysters can be eaten raw from the shell, grilled, steamed, or fried, and incorporated into dozens of different dishes and cuisines. Eating raw oyster meat poses the danger of food poisoning and it is advisable to eat it cooked.

White Truffle

Truffles are an edible type of fungi that grow underground living off the roots of certain tree varieties, like oak and hazelnut. Black truffles are found in France and white truffles are found in Alba town of the Piedmont region of Northern Italy . They are not easily cultivated or grown and are mainly only sourced in the wild. White truffles have an intense musky aroma and flavour. White truffles are usually sliced, grated or shaved over foods before serving.

All types of truffles are rich in amino acids and minerals, including: phosphorus, copper, manganese, Selenium, Zinc and Vitamins A, B, C, D, and K. In Africa and the Middle East, truffles are used to treat skin and eye conditions. Truffles are high in antioxidants and have anti-bacterial properties. They help reduce inflammation and there is limited evidence that they possess anti-cancer properties.

Fugu

Fugu is a meal prepared from pufferfish which is known to be the most dangerous fish in the world because it contains a lethal neurotoxin known as tetrodotoxin. Since there is no known antidote for the fugu poison, it has to be prepared properly by qualified and rigorously trained chefs.

Fugu sashimi is the most popular dish. Fugu can also be eated smoked, fried, stewed or as part of a salad. Fugu is rich in vitamins( A, B1, B2, B6, B12, D, folate, pantothenic acid), minerals( sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, manganese and copper). Fugu also contains calories, protein, fat, carbohydrates and antioxidants.

Foie Gras

Foie Gras is a buttery french cuisine delicacy typically made of duck or goose's liver that has been fattened by a process of force-feeding. Foie gras has a rich offal taste and has a firm, smooth texture. Foie gras can be roasted, pan-fried or grilled. Foie gras is often baked in a crust, as pâté de foie gras which is typically served with baguette, crackers, bread or toast and jelly.

Foie gras is high in fat (mostly anti-inflammatory monounsaturated fat which may help reduce heart disease risk.) It also contains a variety of vitamins and minerals like calories, riboflavin, niacin, phosphorus, vitamin B12, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, copper, zinc,and iron. It has no dietary fiber or sugars.

Owing to its high fat content, foie gras should be consumed sparingly in one sitting and only on occasion. Pregnant women, children and immunocompromised people should only eat heat-sterilized, canned foie gras. Eating foie gras helps to reduce bad cholesterol level in the blood. It also has beneficial effects on hair strength, brain activity, the memory, and helps improve the skin condition.

Jamón Ibérico

Jamón Ibérico ham is the most expensive ham in the world. It is produced from the back leg of the rare black Iberian pig which is raised in the Dehesas woodlands in the southern and western regions of the Iberian Peninsula in Spain. Portugal also produces the Jamón Ibérico ham under the name Presunto Iberico. There are 5 types of Jamón Ibérico hams determined by their diet, their breed and the way they are raised.

100g of the Jamón Ibérico ham provides the same calories as a can of tuna. It contains 60% oleic acid which helps reduce LDL(low-density lipoprotein) levels and increases HDL(high-density lipoprotein) levels. It contains high quality protein, essential amino acids, vitamins B1, B6, B12, D and E and minerals such as iron, zinc, magnesium, selenium, potassium, phosphorus, sodium and calcium.

Pule

Pule or Gruyere is the world's most expensive cheese. It is a rare Serbian fromage made exclusively at Serbia's Zasavica Special Nature Reserve from donkey milk. It is thin and crumbly like feta. Donkey milk is rich in fatty acids and contains 60 times more vitamin C than cow’s, so it’s extremely healthy. Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant which is beneficial in protecting body organs and tissues from damage. Pule is also a good source of vitamins A, B and E.

Donkey milk has just 1% milk fat, contains anti-allergen properties and is exceptionally high in calcium, protein and omega 3 fatty acids, which are very good for maintaining cardiovascular health. The anti-allergens can protect against recurring attacks of diseases like asthma, dermatitis and bronchitis.

Prices are correct at the time of publishing.

Photo Credit: Harrods website

Oyster image: Sel Rose

Fugu image: food republic website

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Luxury List Volume 10

2020-05-25T20:19:00.000+01:00

Joanna Buchanan Lobster-adorned Opulent Napkin Rings £99.95 for a pair.

Dunoon Belle Epoque Kiss Tea for One Set £62.50 and Richmond Belle Epoque Kiss Mug £19.50

Mackenzie-Childs Parchment Check Enamel Tea Kettle £134

Richard Brendon Reflect Gold Milk Jug £60 and Reflect Medium Teapot £250

Villari Pistachios Holder £3,002

Aerin Shagreen 4 Coasters £275

Villari Rose Aquamarine Gold Butterfly Green Teacup Saucer Set £134

Villari Small Queen Margot Tray £1,559

Dunoon Skye Jiro Mug £24.95

Baldi Opulent Caterina de Medici Caviar Holder

Cutipol Goa Gold-Plated 24-Piece Cutlery Set £449

Ghidini 1961 Double O Ice Bucket £1,240

Cuisinart Cordless Automatic Wine Opener £45

Aerin Jasper Stone Bottle Stopper £135

Royal Crown Derby Aves Gold Large Soup Bowl £93

Riedel Happy O Coloured four Wine Tumblers set £85

Gien Jardin du Palais Mug £42.95

Coravin Model Two Elite Pro Wine Preservation System £349

Prices are correct at the time of publishing.

Photo Credit: Harrods website.

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Top Valentine's Day Gift Ideas

2020-02-11T13:35:00.000+00:00

With Valentine's day fast approaching, surprise them with a thoughtful, one-of-a-kind gift that could only be for them, and make their heart skip a beat.

Superb mix of fragrant roses from Moyses Stevens Flowers

Judith Leiber's crystal-embellished clutch bag. This piece features a metal design in the shape of a garden rose and is adorned with sparkling Austrian crystals and finished with a detachable chain handle and metallic leather lining.

Stockinger fire-proof The Cube compact safe with 3 precision watch winders

Dark Chocolate & Raspberry Fondue Pot

Jimmy Choo Shiloh 100 Leather Sandal with 10cm Stiletto heel

Rosé Ace of Spades from Armand de Brignac

Beautybio's Rose Quartz Roller

Gucci Le Marché des Merveilles 18ct yellow-gold, turquoise and diamond ring

Olivia von Halle Pure Silk Bella Camisole Set

De Beers Aura 0.20-carat Stud Earrings in white gold

Fauchon's finest milk chocolate praline rochers

Manolo Blahnik Satin Mules

Bucherer Pastello 18ct rose-gold, 0.15ct diamonds and 3.62ct sapphire pendant earrings

Tom Ford Alligator Money Clip

Photo Credit: Fortnum and Mason
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The Essence That is Perfume

2019-10-15T14:25:00.000+01:00

Casamorati

Perfume is a mixture (usually in liquid form) of fragrant essential oils or aroma compounds, fixatives and solvents, used to give the human body a pleasant scent.

Bella Bellissima Oud Du Futur V Perfume, £340

Scent is an irreplaceable part of life. Smell can evoke feelings and bring back memories. Egyptians were responsible for the origin of perfume.They used to create ointments and balms with essential oils derived from plants, animals, and even seaweed mixed in to provide scent. When the Romans and Greeks got acquainted with perfumes, they started producing it en masse in consistent quality.

Caron

The oldest perfumery discovered from 2,000BC is located on the island of Cyprus. The 16th century saw the popularity of perfume explode in France, especially among the upper classes and nobles. In the 19th century, Grasse became the world perfume capital and a big tourist destination. It was the French that made perfumes luxury items.Today, the region which is northwest of Nice has 60 perfume companies three of which offer free guided tours: The Parfumerie Fragonard, the Parfumerie Molinard and the Galimard Factory and Museum.

The main factor that sets apart luxury perfumes from the rest of the pack lies in their exclusive ingredients. These perfumes ooze opulence, some of these ingredients include rose oil, jasmine, musk, orris, ambergris, myrtle and citrus but the most exclusive and expensive perfume ingredient of all, is the unrivaled oud. Oud is one of the most expensive, potent and desirable perfume ingredients in the world. It has been used for centuries in perfumery and is used as a base by many perfumers today to create some amazing fragrances for men and women.

Floraiku

Oud is derived from the tropical agar tree (agarwood is said to be the most expensive timber in the world), which is thought to originate in Assam region of India. When the wood of this tree is infected by a parasitic mould known as Phialophora Parasitica it reacts by producing a precious, dense, dark and fragrant resin to protect itself. It is the resin-embedded heartwood of the tree that is the perfume ingredient oud.

Roja

The oil of oud can be extracted by distillation from the wood or by melting the resin. Due to its rarity, high demand, and the difficulty of harvesting it, oud oil is perhaps the most expensive oil in the world. The scent itself varies considerably depending on the tree species used, the region the tree was grown and whether the tree itself was cultivated or naturally infected.

Absolute Sandalwood Crystal Perfume Oil by Clive Christian. £6,000

Oud that occurs naturally is more expensive than oud produced by an artificial infestation of the mold. The value of oud is often estimated as one-and-a-half times the value of gold and the annual oud market is around £5 billion.

Alhambra Oud by Ramon Mongeal, £275

MiN New York Momento perfume, £220

Diana Vreeland Devastatingly Chic Perfume, £180

Juliiette has a gun Midnight Oud Eau de Parfum, £120

Creed Perfumes

Maison Francis Kurkdjian, Baccarat Rouge 540 Eau de Parfum, £200

Oud Save the Queen Eau de Parfum by Atkinsons, £165.00

Perfect Oud Eau de Parfum by Mizensir, £175.00

Juliette has a gun perfumes in Harrods.

Casamorati Perfumes in Harvey Nichols.

Prices are correct at the time of publishing.

Photo Credit: Ikoyi Elite.

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Luxury List Volume 9

2019-10-03T14:43:00.000+01:00

Baccarat Mutlicolour 3-tier-Marie Helene-de-Taillac Earrings £1,350

Lilly e Violetta fox-fur Arabella Scarf £1,185

Dior Colour Quake 2 Sunglasses £280

Anita Ko White Gold and Diamond Ava Floating Earrings £7,525

Suzanne Kalan Yellow Gold, Diamond and Emerald Fireworks Eternity Ring £3,575

Gentili Twelve Watch Ostrich-effect Case £1,650

Bee goddess Rose Gold and Diamond Wonders of Nature Bee Earring £710

Vivien Sheriff Leopard Print Feather Airedale Trilby Hat £540

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date-just 31 Wrist Watch £34,150

Suzanne Kalan Rose Gold Diamond and Sapphire Rainbow Fireworks Earrings £550

RedlineYellow Gold Pure String Ring £395

Hublot Spirit of Big Bang Sapphire Chronograph Watch £66,000

Vanrycke Medellin Earring £695

Yeprem White Gold and Diamond Inside-out Two-finger Ring £18,600

Prices are correct at the time of publishing.

Photo Credit: Harrods Website

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Models Corner: Marilyn Jackson

2019-09-16T11:28:00.001+01:00

Ikoyi Elite is proud to publish our first ever model interview. We will be featuring Marilyn Jackson a Nigerian-based fashion model who was kind enough to take time out of her busy schedule to answer our questions. Let us see what the talented Marilyn has to say below

.

Ikoyi Elite: Hello, please could you introduce yourself?
Marilyn: Hello my name is Marilyn Jackson, and I am a Nigerian-based model.

Ikoyi Elite: How did you break into the modelling industry?
Marilyn: Well I always wanted to be a model since I was a kid, so I entered into it after high school.

Ikoyi Elite: Are you a commercial or high fashion model?
Marilyn: Commercial /runway.

Ikoyi Elite: What agency/agencies represent you?
Marilyn: For know-it-all Sparrows modeling agency. But I am yet to be signed.

Ikoyi Elite: What challenges did you face while launching your modelling career?
Marilyn: My height. I am not that tall so I get a whole lot of rejection and I sometimes feel intimidated.

Ikoyi Elite: How do you maintain your looks?
Marilyn: By eating fresh and living healthy. Working out and drinking a lot of water.

Ikoyi Elite: What is your most memorable job?
Marilyn: Haven't seen any worth it.

Ikoyi Elite: Is modelling really as glamorous as it seems?
Marilyn: No, it's not. Only people in it know the answer. The struggle.

Ikoyi Elite: What is your dream modelling assignment?
Marilyn: Advertising campaign for a cosmetics brand and Victoria's secret runway show.

Ikoyi Elite: What are your favourite industry networking events?
Marilyn: London Fashion Week.

Ikoyi Elite: Which is your preferred fashion week?
Marilyn: Milan and London fashion week.

Ikoyi Elite: What lesser known fashion weeks should models look out for?
Marilyn: Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week.

Ikoyi Elite: Which iconic model/models do you admire?
Marilyn: Akele Ruth, Aliana king and Adutek.

Ikoyi Elite: What advice do you have for an aspiring model who is trying to inexpensively build a portfolio of high quality pictures? What kind of photographers, stylists, makeup artists and hairstylist do they approach?
Marilyn: Like I always tell some people, look for the style that suits you. You can always use you phone to take pictures for starters.

Ikoyi Elite: Do you have any more information to add?
Marilyn: Nothing else, thank you.

Thank you very much Marilyn for sharing your life as a model with us. We wish you success in your modelling career.

If you are a model and want to be featured on our blog, you can do so HERE.

Photo Credit: Provided by Model. All rights belong to the respective owners.

The Chelsea Flower Show 2019

2019-05-22T14:57:00.000+01:00

The prestigious RHS Chelsea flower show is here again. We covered last year's flower show here. The theme of this year's show is "Under the Sea". It is being held from the 21st of May, 2019 to the 25th of May, 2019. There are so many beautiful floral creations on display in and outside the stores in Chelsea, London. The Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton designed " Back to Nature" garden, a woodland wilderness garden featuring a rope swing, majestic tree house and stream with waterfalls. The garden was visited by the Queen of England, Queen Elizabeth and other Royal family members.

Below are some of the pictures from around the Borough.

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African Safari Holiday - Tanzania

2019-05-10T14:18:00.002+01:00

An African safari is an unforgettable unique adventure where the thrills never stop. As one tours through spectacular scenery in search of lions, elephants, cheetahs, zebras and more, this continent will enthrall you. This post will focus on one country, Tanzania an eastern African country within the African Great Lakes region which has a higher percentage of its area dedicated to the conservation of wildlife than any other country in Africa.

Tanzania is mountainous and densely forested in the north-east, where Mount Kilimanjaro is located. Three of Africa's Great Lakes are partly within Tanzania. To the north and west lie Lake Victoria, Africa's largest lake, and Lake Tanganyika, the continent's deepest lake, known for its unique species of fish. To the south lies Lake Malawi. The eastern shore is hot and humid, with the Zanzibar Archipelago just offshore. The Menai Bay Conservation Area is Zanzibar's largest marine protected area. The Kalambo Falls, located on the Kalambo River at the Zambian border, is the second highest uninterrupted waterfall in Africa.

Tanzania is highly biodiverse and contains a wide variety of animal habitats including white-bearded wildebeest (Connochaetes taurinus mearnsi), zebras, giraffes [ the national animal], about 130 amphibians and over 275 reptile species. Tanzania has 16 national parks, and a variety of game and forest reserves, including the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

Tanzania is warm year round with two rainy seasons (November-December) and (April-May). June-October is warm and dry while January is hot and dry. The hottest months are October-February. Game viewing is usually prolific during the dry season. In the wet season, you'll be more likely to see new-born animals.

The landscape ranges from the depths of the Ngorongoro Crater to the peak of Mount Kilimanjaro and Island beaches of Zanzibar which rival the Maldives for their soft white sands. The wild Selous, the golden plains of the Serengeti and the dramatic Ngorongoro Crater are some of its iconic safari destinations.

Flying time from the United Kingdom to Tanzania is 10 hours to Dar es Salaam, 10.5 hours to Zanzibar via Nairobi and 9.5 hours to Arusha/Kilimanjaro via Nairobi. Flight time from New York to Dar Es Salaam is 18 hours 37 minutes. Visas are required for U.K and USA passport holders. The local currencey is the Tanzanian shilling although US$ are widely accepted. Airlines that fly to Dar es Salaam International airport include British Airways, Qatar Airways, Swissair, KLM, Emirates, South African Airways, Ethiopian Airways.There are also plenty of cheap, reliable flights between Dar es Salaam and Nairobi, and Zanzibar and Mombasa. Note that luggage must be in soft bags and if you have any internal light aircraft flights the luggage should weigh a maximum of 15kg.

Families going on safari should be aware that although most safari camps and lodges welcome children of (nearly) all ages, some have a minimum age restriction.

Top highlights for your trip should include:

Witnessing the great migration in Serengeti.
Hot-air balloon ride over the Serengeti.
Snorkel and sunbathe in Zanzibar.
Spot Lake Manyara's tree-climbing lions.
Climb Mount Kilimanjaro.
Tour Stone Town.
Visit the Moru Kopjes.
Experience a Night Game Drive.
Meet the Maasai semi-nomadic tribespeople who live in northern Tanzania along the Great Rift Valley.
Boat rides on the Rufiji River in the Selous.
Visit the Ngorongoro Crater.

Serengeti

Serengeti National park is Tanzania's oldest National Park that was created to protect the path of the annual Great Migration. Serengeti is derived from the Maasai language, Maa; specifically, "Serengit" meaning "Endless Plains".

It is home to one of the greatest wildlife spectacles on earth, the Great Wildebeest Migration, a spectacular array of wildlife, vast golden plains dotted with thorny umbrella acacia trees, kopjes, and sausage trees, and its crocodile and hippo-filled rivers. The park sports the densest lion population in the world and is home to all members of the Big Five, approximately 70 large mammals and almost 500 bird species.

Wildebeest migrating

Serengeti is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa and one of the ten natural travel wonders of the world. The great Migration is one of the highlights of Serengeti national park and attracts safari enthusiasts worldwide who come to see over one million wildebeest and other grazing herbivores making their annual journey to follow the rains from the Massai Mara to Serengeti from November to July. Serengeti national park gives guests a good view of animals throughout the year especially areas like Seronera, Grumeti River and Ndutu areas. The wildebeest migration in Serengeti National Park happens in five regions of the park, each happening on different times of the year.

The Southern Serengeti wildebeest Migration starts late December with its climax at January before the wildebeests start coming back in March to the central part of Serengeti. The Western wildebeest migration occurs during the rainy season around April to early June.This is one of the deadliest migration in Serengeti due to high concentration of predators both on water (in Grumeti River with giant crocodiles) and on land where grazzers need to escape from the hands of these predators.

Where to stay

There are several places to stay such as the :

Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti

Serengeti Explorer Camp

Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge

Serengeti Bushtops (Children over the age of 7 years are welcome)

The Seronera Wildlife Lodge

Discover the iconic Ngorongoro Crater

The Ngorongoro Crater and surrounding highlands together form one of Africa's most beautiful regions. It is the largest intact caldera in the world and home to the highest density of big game in Africa. It is an extensive highland area with the famous 600 m deep Ngorongoro Crater as its focal point. The ancient caldera shelters one of the most fertile, beautiful and richest wildlife havens on earth. Ngorongoro is justifiably one of the continent's most famous safari destinations.

You should ideally include a visit to Ngorongoro Crater, interact with people from the Maasai tribe and can explore the forests, lakes and open grassland and hopefully spot the Big Five, cheetah, black rhino, large tusker elephants, buffalo, zebra, herds of wildebeest, jackal, Grant's and Thompson's gazelle, flamingo and bat-eared foxes,hyena as well as approximately 400 species of bird.
Ngorongoro safari is because of it's unique micro-climate, it can be enjoyed year round.

Where to stay in the Ngorongoro Crater?

The choice is whether to stay at a hotel on the Crater rim for the phenomenal view, or a little way away from the Crater in nearby Karatu is yours. Some accommodation choices include:

Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge

Situated on the eastern rim of the Ngorongoro Crater. 189 Km from Arusha.

&Beyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge

Gibb’s Farm Ngorongoro

Other activities worthy of exploring include a trek up Africa's highest and most famous mountain - Mount Kilimanjaro. A visit to the Selous game reserve which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site is also recommended. It offers a true wilderness experience and has African wild dogs, lions, crocodiles, black rhinos and elephants. Bush walks and boat trips on the Rufiji River are also possible. Selous is closed during the peak rainy season, usually from April to May.

To round up your Safari break a trip to the coastal city of Zanzibar(spice island) is recommended to recharge. You can swim with dolphins, enjoy spa treatments, snorkelling amongst colourful corals, wining and dining or just sip cocktails.

Zanzibar grows spices like cloves, cinnamon, vanilla and nutmeg.

It has palm-fringed beaches lapped by warm Indian Ocean waters. Nungwi and Bwejuu are among the Island's best beaches. Stone Town offers Zanzibar's main cultural sightseeing.

Where to stay in Zanzibar

Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa

Bluebay Beach Resort and Spa

The Residence Zanzibar

A room at The Residence Zanzibar

Photo Credits:
freedomdestinations.co.uk
Four seasons Serengeti
The residence Zanzibar

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Shop Displays 2

2018-12-27T12:20:00.000+00:00

Gucci Shoes

Gucci Kids

Dolce and Gabbana Men shoes

Dolce and Gabanna

Dior Kids

Loro Piana Baby

A selection of evening gowns

Tod's Men Shoes

Dior Kids

Gucci Shoes

Dior Kids

Dolce and Gabbana Kids

Gucci Shoes

Philosophy di Lorenzo Serafini

Gucci Shoes

Formal gowns

GIPH Homme

Gucci Kids

Dior Kids

Olivia Von Haille luxury silk nightwear

Gucci Kids Shoes

A selection of clothes for children

Dolce and Gabanna Shoes

Simonetta Ravizza

Gucci Shoes

Dior Kids

Gucci Kids

Baby Dior

Perfumes

Chatilla Jewellery

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Shop Displays 1

2018-10-19T19:40:00.000+01:00

Perfume Display at Fortnum andMason, Piccadilly London

I am excited to bring you a new segment on Ikoyi Elite covering luxury shops and what they have on display on their racks and shelves. It is just not enough seeing single hand-picked items but having a mini-pictorial tour can provide a different and interesting angle to readers and give you the feeling of actually being in the shop. You will also get a sense of what the designers’ seasons collections look like and guide you when you want t hit the shops. So below are pictures taken on my rounds to some shops.

Gucci Bags

Billionaire Shoes for Men

Christian Dior Gown

Prada Perfume Display

Gucci Jumper

Gucci Accessories

Colourful Rack of clothes at Prada

Louis Vuitton

Gucci Bags

More Gucci bags

Chanel

Valentino

Prada Phone Covers

Berluti

Prada Card Holders

Prada

More Prada Accessories

Christian Dior

Prada Wallets

Gucci Wallets

A selection from Prada

Prada Blue Crocodile bag £15,700

Chanel

Louis Vuitton

Gucci

Acqua di Parma

Gucci

Louis Vuitton Crocodile bag £21,300

Dolce and Gabbana shoes

Prada Bags

Prada

Dolce and Gabbana

Christian Dior

Penhaligon's

Valentino

Sunglasses at Christian Dior

Gucci Bags

Stefano Ricci

Chanel

Billionaire

Christian Dior

Louis Vuitton

Christian Dior

Billionaire

Louis Vuitton

Dolce and Gabbana shoes

Louis Vuitton

Valentino

Louis Vuitton

Berluti

Louis Vuitton

Billionaire

Prada

Dolce and Gabbana

Gucci

Gucci Handbags

Billionaire

Ermenegildo Zegna

Louis Vuitton

Prada

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The Chelsea Flower Show 2018 #chelseaflowershow

2018-05-25T14:51:00.000+01:00

The Royal Horticultural Society’s Chelsea flower show is the world’s most prestigious flower show that inspires millions and leads the way in innovative garden design. The 2018 Chelsea flower show was held from May 22^nd - May 26^th. These are pictures from around the borough of Chelsea. The theme of this year’s show is love.

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Emerald, Sapphire and Diamond 18k Gold Bracelet. £103,260.02 by David Webb

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Luxury List Volume 8

2018-01-20T16:27:00.000+00:00

Margot McKinney Cookie Drop Earrings. £17,210

Marco Bicego Bracelet. £4,681.12

Marina B. Bracelet. £5,201.25

Margot McKinney NYC Coral & Amethyst Cuff Bracelet in 18K Yellow Gold. £45,586.62

Hays Worthington Estate Ruby, Emerald & Turquoise Pin with Diamonds. £13,385.56

Margot McKinney Carnivale Denim Blue Topaz Earrings. £20,269.56

Belpearl Aura South Sea Pearl & Turquoise Ring. £3,059.56

Marco Bicego Earrings. £2723

Marco Bicego Bracelet. £2723

Verdi Pink, Blue & Yellow Sapphire Ring with Diamonds in 18K Rose Gold. £7,495.91

Monica Rich Kosann's Dream Moon Charm Necklace with Diamonds, 32". £4,780.56

Marco Bicego Necklace. £5,828

Paul Morelli's Cabochon Bracelet. £1,912.22

Tamara Comolli Mikado's Flamenco Candy Cabochon Bracelet. £38,010.39

Monica Rich Kosann's 18K Gold Locket Necklace with Diamond Center. £12,944.82

Margot McKinney Earrings. £20,269.56

Marco Bicego 18K Yellow Gold Paradise Five Strand Mixed Stone Bracelet. £3,198.32

See more...

Prices are correct at the time of publishing

Photo Credit: Neiman Marcus Website

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Pomellato Jewellery

2017-09-30T12:55:00.002+01:00

Pomellato Rings

Pomellato is an Italian jewellery company that was founded by Pino Rabolini in Milan in 1967. The company, specializes in handmade gold jewellery with precious gems and whimsical designs. Pomellato jewels have very recognisable features with emphasis on rounded and tactile forms.

The brand which currently ranks among the first five European jewellers by sales ranks among the most beautiful and innovative jewellery brands in the world. Pomellato introduced the concept of prêt-à-porter jewellery, the idea that jewellery is not just a status symbol but an accessory to be worn at any moment of the day and changed like clothes.

The brand’s collections include: Nudo, Capri, Sabbia, M'Ama Non M'Ama, Victoria, Tango and has more than thirty boutiques worldwide including Milan, Paris, Madrid, Capri, Barcelona, Monte Carlo, Taipei, Venice, Rome, Moscow, Düsseldorf, Florence, Antwerp, Dubai, New York City, Moscow and London.

Click to SHOP

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Photo/Video Credit: http://www.pomellato.com/gb/

Guess the designers

2017-09-30T12:10:00.000+01:00

Guess who the designers of these bags are. Leave your answers in the comment section.

Click to SHOP designer Fashion.

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Photo Credits:

Luxury Belgravia Homes

2017-09-30T11:47:00.000+01:00

Living Room

Belgravia is a district in West London in the City of Westminster and the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. It is noted for its very expensive residential properties and is one of the wealthiest districts in the world with many houses in Belgravia costing up to £100 million.

Bathroom

Kitchen

Cinema

Belgravia is characterised by grand terraces of white stucco houses, and is focused on Belgrave Square and Eaton Square. Other squares include: Chester square, Lowndes square, Wilton crescent, Upper Belgrave street. It was one of London's most fashionable residential districts where wealthy foreigners own many of the luxury residences.

Dining Room

Bedroom

Wardrobe

Terrace

The residences in Belgravia are mainly timeless grand classical designs like this 7,100 sq ft 5 bedrooms house in Chester square which Sold in July 2017. Its beautifully designed interior architecture includes Italian marble, bespoke joinery, leather finishes and silk wallpapers.

There is a drawing room, dining room, kitchen, study, cinema, gym, pool, garage, two terraces and Staff suite with separate kitchen.

Swimming Pool

Gym

Kitchen worktop

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Photo Credit:

http://www.savills.co.uk

St. Moritz, Switzerland: Winter Vacation

2017-01-08T01:01:00.000+00:00

St. Moritz is a high Alpine luxury, chic, exclusive, cosmopolitan and stylish resort in the Engadine in Switzerland that enjoys over 300 days of sunshine a year. St. Moritz is a popular tourist destination for the upper class and international jetset. It is also regarded as the most expensive ski resort in the world, with many luxurious five star hotels and upscale shops.

Every winter it hosts the "White Turf" horse race on Its eponymous frozen Lake St. Moritz attended by the international upper class. The frozen lake is also the setting for skating, curling, golf, polo, show jumping, and even cricket. St. Moritz remains the best all-round wintersports resort in the world.

The resort's bob run is the last remaining natural course in the world. In March, St Moritz hosts the Engadin Skimarathon, Switzerland’s largest cross-country race with as many as 13,000 entrants.

The resort is the world capital of winter glitz and attracts a clientele with stratospheric incomes. The village’s high-end atmosphere when walking down the street in high season ---lots of fur, caviar, and exclusive restaurants, only adds to the charm

St Moritz's position at 1,856m in the Engadin Valley in the south of Switzerland, close to the frontier with Italy, gives it a rare combination of snow reliability and 300 days of sunshine each year with excellent ski areas in St. Moritz’s local mountain Corviglia and the neighbouring Corvatsch, Zuoz and Diavolezza. The ski resort has 58 lifts and 350km of pistes and is divided into four separate sectors. The bottom lift is at 1,800m and the top of the ski area at 3,305m.

The Corviglia skiing area is home to 15 mountain restaurants ranging from simple, home-made specialities through to first-class gourmet dining offering caviar and champagne.

The resort itself is divided into three separate villages around or near the lake. This is an important fact to take into consideration when booking a hotel.

St. Moritz‐Dorf, on the shore of the lake, is the glitzy one with most of the five- and four-star hotels as well as the pick of shops, nightlife, and restaurants. Winter Olympic games have been held twice in St. Moritz‐Dorf, in 1928 and again in 1948. Badrutt’s Palace is a historic luxury 5-star hotel in St. Moritz‐Dorf.

Badrutt's Palace Hotel St. Moritz

St Moritz-Bad is less than 2km – a four-minute drive – away, and an altogether more tranquil and less showy location and home to the five-star Kempinski Grand Hotel des Bains. It has lifts up to the Corviglia ski area.

Celerina, 3km away on the other side of Dorf, with its celebrated church of San Gian, also has its share of sumptuous hotels. Its strong Italian following has earned it the name of Piccolo Milano (Little Milan). From the charming village a gondola leads straight up to the family-friendly ski area of Corviglia/Piz Nair.

St. Moritz is home to an extensive collection of fashion boutiques. Via Serlas is St. Moritz’s stylish shopping boulevard and home to major labels like Jimmy Choo, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Roberto Cavalli, Emilio Pucci, Ralph Lauren, Chanel, Bottega Veneta, Valentino, Cartier, Tom Ford, Versace, Giorgio Armani, Ermenegildo Zegna, Van Cleef and Arpels and other prestigious names on the international fashion scene. In addition to the fashion labels, St. Moritz shoppers will also find dazzling gemstones, stylish designer furniture, exquisite wines and a superb choice of delicatessens on Via Serlas. More major labels and boutiques can be found in the village centre like Hermes, Brioni, Brunello Cucinelli, Dolce & Gabbana, Dsquared2, Etro, Marni, Prada amongst others.

Via Serlas Shopping Boulevard

Celebrities that have been spotted here include: Robbie Williams, Claudia Schiffer, George Clooney, Charlie Chaplin, Alfred Hitchcock, John Travolta, Robert De Niro, Elizabeth Hurley, Tina Turner, Naomi Campbell, Boris Becker, Elizabeth Taylor, Greta Garbo, Brigitte Bardot and Ivana Trump.

Getting there:

Nearest airport: Engadin, Samedan, then a short drive (5km) to St. Moritz

Nearest station: St Moritz.

Photo credit: Kulm Hotel website. http://www.kulm.com/en/hotel/

http://luxurylaunches.com/travel/

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Luxury List Volume 7

2016-11-16T14:19:00.004+00:00

Louis XIII Le Mathusalem (600cl) £59,995

Gucci Dionysus Croc Shoulder Bag, £17,990

Estée Lauder Pleasures solid perfume £300

Gentili Poker Set With Chips £1,750

Bond No 9 Dubai Emerald (EDP, 100ml) £480

Alexander McQueen Night Dream Embroidered Knuckle Box Clutch £3,095

Tumi Johnnie Walker Tasting Kit £5,045

Previous Luxury list.

Photo credit: Harrods Website

Prices are correct at the time of publishing

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Il Loft Furniture

2016-10-26T20:28:00.000+01:00

Il Loft Super Roy Sofa: wide and dynamic, perfect for socialization, with seats positioned on both sides and covered with fabrics of the most varied textures and colors.

Il Loft Flower Patchwork Armchair

Il Loft Carpet and Armchair

Il Loft is a high-end Italian furniture company created in 1994 by the very creative and imaginative Giorgio Saporiti. The colourful, universally recognised furniture adorns the living spaces of highly enlightened and tasteful clients worldwide from entrepreneurs, collectors, sport, music and show-business celebrities.

Il Loft Wing Line Sofa

Il Loft Carpet

Il Loft furniture come in a wide range of colours, textures, materials and can be customized in terms of size and finish to create a soothing harmony which is a beauty to behold.

Il Loft Tapestry

Il Loft Baby Bed

Il Loft Skyline Armchair

Il Loft Bar Stools

Il Loft furniture includes Arrmchairs, Sofas, Pouffs, Low tables, Chairs and Bar stools, Carpets, Tapestries, Baby collection and a lot more.

Il Loft Grand Roy Sofa

Il Loft Iride Bed

Il Loft Gala Armchair

Il Loft Wing Sofa

Il Loft Flower Baby Bed

PHOTO CREDIT:

All pictures are from Il Loft website.

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Fashion Picks Volume 1

2016-10-26T02:41:00.000+01:00

EFFY Watercolours 14K Yellow Gold Multi Sapphire and Diamond Ring, $2,995 at EFFY Jewellery

Emilio Pucci Floor Length Gown, £2379 at Stylebop.com

Balmain Wool Blazer with Embossed Buttons, £ 1,349 at Stylebop.com

Versace Small Palazzo Leather Tote Bag, £1,670.00 at Forzieri

Balmain Leather Ankle Boots,£729 at Stylebop.com

Mia & Beverly Gemstones 18K Rose Gold Ring, £907.38 at Forzieri

Giancarlo Petriglia Mini P Multicolor Metallic Leather Bag, £1,231.85 at Forzieri

Akris 3/4-Sleeve Printed T-Shirt, $446 at Neiman Marcus

Paula Cademartori Beth Multicolor Leather and Fur Bag, £1,260 at Forzieri

Bottega Veneta Leather-Trimmed Stripped-Inset Jacket, $1,887 at Neiman Marcus

SHOP Designer fashion.

PHOTO CREDIT:

Photos are from the websites of the respective retailers.

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#IEFabLife: The Luxury Lifestyle of Isabelle

2016-10-24T14:50:00.000+01:00

Today's #IEFablife interview features Isabelle a 26 year old recent MBA graduate who believes in having a strong work ethic and enjoying and sharing life's pleasures with loved ones.

Ikoyi Elite: Briefly describe yourself.
Isabelle: My name is Isabelle, I am 26 and just finished with my MBA. I am a young enthusiastic individual who loves to laugh and adore fashion and travels.

Ikoyi Elite: What does luxury mean to you?
Isabelle: Luxury means on the one hand to be able to buy the things that you want, such as a bag and shoes and to be able to travel around and do crazy things. On the other hand I see Luxury as being happy and having good people in life such as family and friends. The prettiest things in the world are meaningless if you don't have people to share it with.

Ikoyi Elite: What luxury item can you not live without?
Isabelle: Definitely my black Chanel Jumbo flap. I love this bag so so so much! It simply goes with anything I wear. Plus I usually put my flats in there when I go clubbing so i can switch out of my heels.

Ikoyi Elite: What is your favourite vacation destination and why?
Isabelle: I love Porto Cervo in Sardinia. Not only are the beaches amazing but also the food and the people are fabulous. I have been going there my entire life and I am happy that there is no tourist craze. I would say that the people who go there are the kind of people who are wealthy and appreciate to have their privacy. You can go to a grocery shop or a simple Pizzeria and you might end up next to some politician or celebrity... it is all very laid back.

Ikoyi Elite: If you were to pick a restaurant which would it be and what dish and wine would you order?

Isabelle: I would pick the Louis XV in Monaco. In terms of dish, I would actually pick their Gourmet Menu! It is so tasty! A true culinary experience. I love all sorts of wine but I would start with a glass of champagne and then order first a light white or rose wine and then a good Chateau Neuf du Pape red wine.

Ikoyi Elite: What is your beauty regimen like?

Isabelle: It is very simple: Eat healthy but still yummy, make sure to walk as much as possible and don't go crazy on Alcohol or smoking cigarettes. Plus, I don't like to wear too much makeup. I don't remember when I last wore foundation. It is important to keep your skin clean and to stay hydrated. However, one tip to you guys; Drink 1L of Green Tea everyday with the juice of one lemon... It is an amazing detoxifier!

Ikoyi Elite: What are your favourite designer brands?

Isabelle: Oh there are so many, hmmm, where do I start.. I love Chanel, Hermes, Burberry, Max Mara and Akris. For younger fashion outfits I also am addicted to BCBG and Alice & Olivia! They have really cool clothes and well for shoes only I am a big Christian Louboutin, Jimmy Choo and Stuart Weizmann fan.

Ikoyi Elite: What is your favourite movie?

Isabelle: Pretty Woman.

Ikoyi Elite: What luxury vehicle(s) do you own?

Isabelle: Mercedes.

Ikoyi Elite: What is your most expensive luxury item?

Isabelle: A diamond and sapphire ring.

Ikoyi Elite: Do you prefer yacht parties or nightclubs?

Isabelle: Nightclubs.

Ikoyi Elite: What is your real estate preference? Hotel-style penthouse or country estate?

Isabelle: I love both.

Ikoyi Elite: What advice do you have for anyone aspiring to live a luxurious decadent lifestyle?

Isabelle: Work hard! If you want to have a luxurious lifestyle you need to realize that money doesn't grow on trees. I mean there is a reason why rich people stay rich, they work really hard and they still make sure they don't waste it. There is so much you can do for fun etc, but you always need to keep in mind that you want to have continuous income sources from your business, investment, job etc. Also, when you really work hard for something, the moment you walk into the store to pick up your dream item, you will feel like the happiest person ever! It is an amazing feeling.

Thank you Isabelle for sharing your fabulous lifestyle and views with us.

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