An Art Show Fit for a Queen

Royalty abounded at last week’s Art Monaco 2013 art fair. Not surprising in a country that, despite being situated on only two square kilometers of land mass, has often been described as the world’s wealthiest country. A country identified by its collection of yachts, beaches, celebrities and casinos or, rather, one casino – the infamous Monte Carlo casino. The event was Art Monaco 2013, perhaps one of the most prestigious and certainly poshest art shows in the world and it was set against a backdrop of both undeniable natural and man-made beauty and opulence. An empress, princess, and art royalty reigned during the festivities. Her Majesty, Empress Farah Pahlavi of Iran, inaugurated the event. The princess in attendance, in spirit only, was American film icon Princess Grace who, through her marriage to Monaco’s Prince Ranier III, has always held a beloved role with the Monacan community. In fact, the seaside deck just outside the main entrance to the fair, suitably named the Esplande Princesse Grace, is the gateway into the show itself, and the venue’s address is 10 Avenue Princess Grace. Art royalty was duly represented as well with the presence of Olivier Picasso, a direct descendant of Pablo himself, who was on hand at the show as well.

The four day event ran from April 25 – 28 at the Grimaldi Forum in the heart of Monaco. This location provided one of the most beautiful and most often photographed viewpoints on the French Riviera. This show was not for the faint of heart (or light of wallet). A who’s who of art collectors, art creators, with an ample amount of good old classic wealthy people thrown in for good measure, made up the guest list. Unlike other recent international art shows including Zona Maco in Mexico City, ArcoMadrid in Spain and the Armory Show In New York whose attendees included a more diverse socio economic background, Art Monaco 2013 was comprised of a much more exclusive clientele.

The show kicked off on Thursday night with a black tie, by invitation only VIP event followed by a press conference, opening ceremony and auction run by, who else, world famous auctioneer company, Christie’s of New York. The next three days were a mix of “vernissage” events whereby the artistic elite were treated to “meet the artist” opportunities and special sneak peek previews of their artistic treasures. Public opening periods were scheduled throughout the next four days although these certainly were not “drop in and take a look” events but rather exercises in serious art wheeling and dealing. The couture of many of the attendees was nothing short of what would be seen at a Milanese Fashion Week – a true seen and be seen experience.

The collection was comprised of artistic pieces done from a multitude of mediums to include crystal, wood, various painting techniques and methods, sculpture, photography, and many more. Over 4,500 pieces were on display from all over the globe with a heavy influence from France and Russia. The show was successfully curated by Johnessco Rodrigues who, along with his distinguished team, carefully selected and organized the 75 participating galleries and their pieces.

Key Facts

• The Art Monaco 2013 show is one of the most opulent and expensive art show locations worldwide.
• Collection included a wide variety of artistic mediums from both established and emerging artists.
• Variety of awards issued with nominations received from the public as well as special guests in multiple categories.

Why Art Monaco 2013?

• Located in the elegant Larvotto district of Monaco, the panoramic view of the Mediterranean is an artistic experience in itself.
• As a salute to the international art community, a sister art show in Barranquilla, Columbia was televised and presented simultaneously at the Art Monaco fair demonstrating the power of the digital age and its impact in the art community.

Be Aware Of

• Expense. Although the price of the tickets was surprisingly reasonable at 20 euro/adult and 100 euro for VIP events, do not underestimate the exchange of money occurring at this event. Those considering making an artistic investment were required to come heavily equipped with plastic.
• Traveling there can be arduous. International travelers will likely be required to fly into Paris or another major European gateway, take a transfer flight to Nice, and then a bus or private automobile or taxi to Monaco.

To find out more about Slipstream’s unique travel services, you can check out our website www.slipstream.travel.

Images credits: Art Monoco Room: le-citydelux and International Art Guide

 

Lake Tahoe offers world-class skiing and infinite variety

Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is the ultimate adventure filled getaway. Everyone will find the perfect trail from alpine tree skiing to challenging black diamond runs, among the limitless variety of slopes. Lake Tahoe has the largest concentration of ski resorts in the USA, including seven world class resorts. With your choice of mountains, high quality dining, exceptional spas, and accommodation ranging from lakeside cabins to elite resorts, the choices at Tahoe are limited only by your imagination.

Marvel over the snow-covered sand at Kings Beach at North Lake Tahoe. Jason’s Beachside Grille at Kings Beach is popular with the locals as well as with the Silicon Valley crowd. North Lake centrally locates numerous popular ski resorts including Northstar, Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows, while Kirkwood and Heavenly are located at South Lake. Each resort in Tahoe has its own unique personality. Try each, or return to your favorites.

Kings Beach, Lake Tahoe

At Northstar, 60% of the runs are blue, making it an excellent choice for families with diverse experience levels. Its new base village is filled with ski après options, including bars, restaurants, and ice skating. The mountain dining at Zephyr Lodge offers a variety of international cuisine which rivals the best on mountain casual dining of all Tahoe ski resorts. The Manzanita at the Ritz-Carlton is perched mid-mountain with spectacular views of the peaks. Northstar is the ultimate tree-skiing resort. The Islands and Castle Peak offer more challenging runs. Weave through the trees at Loggers Loop while enjoying a view of the lake.

Northstar Resort, Lake Tahoe

Squaw Valley is known for hosting the 1960 winter Olympics. Today, it remains one of the largest ski areas in North America. Take the gondola to the top and explore the slopes at the back of Gold Coast and Siberia Express. Try Squaw Peak for more challenging black runs. Squaw is best known for intermediate to expert skiers. The advanced skier might try night skiing on Squaws 3.2 mile run. Alternatively, after a long day on the slopes, ride the 2,000 feet Aerial Tram to the famous High Camp Pool, open during the spring and located 8,200 feet up Squaw Mountain. The hot tub and views are just the beginning.

High Camp Pool Squaw Valley, Lake Tahoe

Alternatively pay a visit to neighboring Alpine Meadows. Find a variety of numerous steep chutes, cliffs and wide-open bowls. Alpine Meadows offers a more local ski experience. Enjoy the spectacular views of Lake Tahoe near the Lakeview Chair at the front of the mountain before embarking on famous tree skiing down to the base. For more breathtaking views, take a ride on the Summit Express or the Alpine Bowl Chair followed by a short hike for a panoramic view of Lake Tahoe, Twin Peaks and the rest of the Sierra Crest.

Alpine Meadows, Lake Tahoe

At Heavenly in South Lake Tahoe, you can choose to ski on the Nevada side or the California side of the mountain. The resort has the highest elevation in the area at 10,066 feet, with soft, dune-like runs. Heavenly offers among the best views of Lake Tahoe–with sweeping mountains, sparkling water and lush evergreens. South Lake Tahoe also boasts a thriving casino nightlife.

Heavenly Resort, Lake Tahoe

Kirkwood, famous among locals, has the deepest snowpack in the area with an annual snowfall averaging 500 inches. It offers perfect conditions for the expert skier looking to leave the tourist set behind. Its more secluded location, tree skiing and wide stellar runs, provide the expert skier with a truly unique experience. Kirkwood has the most abundant expert terrain in Tahoe at 15%. Squaw, Sierra-at-Tahoe and Mt. Rose all have 10%. Intermediates will enjoy the blue runs at Happiness Is and Elevator Shaft, famous for their abundant powder skiing.

Kirkwood Resort, Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe’s distinctive resorts allow you to literally ski from one resort to the next while improving your skiing along the way.

Key Facts

• 3.5 hour drive from San Francisco, CA
• 50 minute drive from Reno, NV
• Northstar base / top elevation: 6,329ft / 8,610ft
• Northstar lifts: 20
• Northstar terrain type: 13% beg. 60% int. 27% adv.
• Lift Ticket Prices: Adult day $95, Adult Week $588 Season Pass $999-$2,250
• Squaw Valley base / top elevation: 6,200ft / 8,200ft
• Squaw Valley lifts: 30
• Squaw Valley terrain type: 25% beg. 45% int. 20% adv. 10% exp.
• Lift Ticket Prices: Adult day $104, Season Pass $429-$849
• Alpine Meadows base / top elevation: 6,835ft / 8,637ft
• Alpine Meadows lifts: 13
• Alpine Meadows terrain type: 25% beg. 40% int. 35% adv.
• Lift Ticket Prices: Adult day $104, Season Pass $429-$849
• Heavenly base / top elevation: 6,564ft / 10,066ft
• Heavenly lifts: 29
• Heavenly terrain type: 20% beg. 45% int. 30% adv. 5% exp.
• Lift Ticket Prices: Adult day $92, Adult Week $567, Season Pass $999-$2,250
• Kirkwood base / top elevation: 7,800ft / 9, 800ft
• Kirkwood lifts: 15
• Kirkwood terrain type: 15% beg. 50% int. 20% adv, 15% exp.
• Lift Ticket Prices: Adult day $79-$89, Adult Week $455, Season Pass $999-$2,250
• Squaw Valley was home to the 1960 winter Olympics
• Partnered resorts: Vail Resorts owns Kirkwood Mountain Resort, Northstar California and Heavenly Mountain Resort
• KSL Capital Partners owns Squaw Valley and Alpines Meadows. Partnered resorts offer joint lift tickets and single season passes for visitors and free shuttles between its locations
• The most popular resorts are Northstar, Squaw Valley, Alpine Meadows, Heavenly and Kirkwood. The complete list also includes Mt. Rose-Ski Tahoe, Sierra-at-Tahoe. Additional resorts include Boreal Mountain Resort, Diamond Peak, Donner Ski Ranch, Granlibakken, Homewood Mountain Resort, Soda Springs, Sugar Bowl and Tahoe Donner Downhill

Why Tahoe 

• Large variety of mountains within close reach
• Can be enjoyed by any level of skier
• Powder effect and variety of on and off piste skiing
• The Lake itself – stunning scenery
• Wide variety of restaurants and entertainment
• Wide variety of accommodation
• Local lesser known hangouts away from the more commercial areas

Be Aware Of 

• Access in and out of Tahoe can be restricted in heavy weather
• Need to carry chains or best of all hire an SUV with snow tires

To find out more about Slipstream’s unique travel services, you can check out our website www.slipstream.travel.

Images credits: Lake Tahoe: Ridge Tahoe Resort Hotel, Northstar: Jodi Womack, High Camp Pool: Squaw Valley Resort, Alpine Meadows: Dbonny, Kirkwood: Kirkwood Resort.

Arte a la Zona Maco Art Fair – Mexico City

Pop quiz.  Where can you get perfect weather in April – 70-80 degrees, sun, palm trees, green grass, and art?  Yes, I said art and not just any art… Contemporary art – all kinds of it from established Mexican painters and sculptors to international designers to emerging young, hip artists from all corners of the globe.  If this sounds too good to be true, it isn’t.  It is what we and over 30,000 of our closest, art loving friends were treated to at this year’s Zona Maco Art Fair held at the Centro Banamex convention center just west of Mexico City. In its 10th year, the show, once again, did not disappoint attendees and, too many, surpassed last years’ experience.

The show has evolved considerably in its decade existence with the number of galleries represented having grown from 22 in its first year to 110 in 2013.  This year’s fair management is under the direction of Pablo Del Val, Chief Executive Officer of Zona Maco.

While Mexico does not normally evoke images of leadership in the artistic world, after having the chance to experience Zona Maco, it became evident that it certainly should.  While traditionalism reigns in this part of the world, the artists and curators participating in this year’s fair clearly demonstrated their commitment to contemporary art in a class with their European and worldwide counterparts.

Similar to previous years, this year’s show was divided into five distinct sections.  The first section, Seccion Principal (main section) was comprised of established artists and galleries from all ends of the earth – Berlin to New York, London to Monterrey.

The second section included pieces from the younger set, artists under the age of 35 and was curated by Swiss Mirjam Varadinis.  Works ranged from abstract to art nouveau. The common denominator throughout this exhibit was bold – creative and unafraid.  These artists clearly demonstrated their personal life experiences through their chosen medium and the result was a consistent, dynamic skill combined with a splash of color.

Section 3, Zona Maco Sur, had an interesting guiding principle – showcasing contemporary international works from the 1950’s through the end of the millennium. Much in line with Andy Warhol’s works of the period, the pure boldness and imagination displayed in the pieces was outstanding.

Zona Maco Modern Art – Like its counterpart Sur down the hall, Modern Art featured artwork with themes from the second half of the 20th century, however, this collection highlighted the artistic efforts of Latin artists primarily those of Mexico.  The exhibit took a walk through historical and political events shaping Latin America during this time frame.  Additional artists from Spain and South America were represented as well.

Section 5, Zona Maco Design was the nuts and bolts portion of the art show featuring lifestyle and home design exhibits. This section was fascinating to seasoned art professionals all the way to the art novice looking for creative ideas for their own home decor and everyone in between.

Key Facts

• In its 10th year, the Zona Maco Art Fair in Mexico city is one of the largest Latin American art shows.
• Comprised of five very unique sections, the show had something to offer for visitors of varied backgrounds and levels of artistic awareness.
• Influenced by Latin political movements and history, the fair showcased a large variety of art pieces of various mediums from worldwide talent.
• Awards issued – the Purification Garcia and the Collection Award 1800 for outstanding achievements in artistry.

Why Zona Maco

• Located in Mexico City in April, the weather and location provide a beautiful setting to enjoy the show.
• In addition to the art pieces, various conferences and lectures on a variety of art-related topics are available to all attendees.

Be Aware Of

• Crowds. With over 30,000 attendees, it is wise to attend at opening time or in the late afternoon.
• Consider taking public transportation rather than driving to avoid transit and parking nightmares.

To find out more about Slipstream’s unique travel services, you can check out our website www.slipstream.travel.

Images credits: View of Zona Maco from Flickr by Veemente, Maria Gabriela Brito book out Out There interior decoration design

Sun Valley: Glamour, peace and world-class skiing meet in Idaho

Base of Bald Mountain

“Is it always sunny at Sun Valley?” I asked the local sitting next to me on the chair lift. “Sure”, he replied, and then laughed. “Now you know how Sun Valley got its name.” He further explained that the Cascade Ranges across California, Oregon and Washington absorb most of the clouds that move off the Pacific before they reach Idaho. William Averell Harriman, the founder of the resort in 1936, took advantage of the clear skies, naming the resort Sun Valley. Harriman’s efforts to promote Sun Valley worked successfully with Hollywood and celebrities, even going so far as to producing a film at the resort, Sun Valley Serenade (1941). Several other films have been made since taking advantage of the landscapes and ski culture.

It is where bold-faced names like Ernest Hemingway, Gary Cooper, Marilyn Monroe, Lucille Ball, and the Kennedys spent their vacations. It was a marquee resort for the Hollywood crowd of the 50s and 60s, and that old Hollywood glamour still remains today.

Hemingway certainly left his mark on Sun Valley, and his stories are still told lovingly by locals. Even certain trails have been named after him (upper, mid and lower Hemingway). The Hemingway runs are so wide that you can ski down to Warm Springs as though the slope was entirely yours. The Warm Springs Day Lodge at the slopes base provides a perfect place to take a break and enjoy a cozy open hearth fire and panoramic sweeping views of the slopes. The River Run which is a similar scene, is located near the main entrance to Bald Mountain, great to sit back and enjoy the band or have a drink at the bar.

Take a tip from the legend himself and hire a personal ski instructor for the day or just “do a Hemingway” and have a five hour lunch at the Roundhouse. Or make more time for skiing by opting for a quick bowl of chili at the Lookout or Seattle Ridge, which furnish elegant cafeteria style dining at the top scenic peaks of Bald Mountain. Both boast sweeping views of the distant Sawtooth National Forest, the Boise National Forest and the Salmon Challis National Forest.

Sun Valley 1961

Friendly quant downtown Ketchum houses numerous restaurants including Cornerstone and Michel’s Christiania where Hemingway had his own permanent table. The ruby trout is a local favorite, and serves the town’s signature fish.

Sun Valley is clearly in a class of its own when it comes to superb skiing, crystal clear long sunny days, few crowds, privacy, great on-slope and downtown dining, and long epic runs with sweeping majestic mountain views. It also boasts the scenic beauty and sophistication of downtown Ketchum and world class art galleries featuring Picassos, Warhols, Chagalls and other famous and rare masterpieces.

Escape the California and Colorado-resort crowds at Sun Valley. Locals know its Idaho’s best kept secret and keep it so. Enjoy the unique meeting of perfect alpine snows and sun filled bliss. The ideal unique winter sports retreat for discerning enthusiasts worldwide.

Key Facts 

• 2.5 hour drive from Boise, Idaho
• 30 minutes from Friedman Memorial Airport, Hailey
• 5 hours from Park City or Deer Valley Utah
• Lifts open from 9am to 3:45pm
• Snowboarding is not very popular on the slopes at Bald Mountain it is majority skiers
• Dollar Mountain attracts beginners or families with children learning to ski
• Dollar Mountain has more snowboard friendly facilities
• The best locations for lodging are near Bald Mountain or downtown Ketchum where everything from the slopes to restaurants are within walking distance
• Bald Mountain base / top elevation: 5,750ft / 9,150ft
• Bald Mountain lifts: 14
• Bald Mountain terrain type: 36% beginner, 42% intermediate, and 22% advanced
• Lift Ticket Prices: Adult Day $99, Adult Week $650, Season Pass $1,949
• Lift operating hours: 9am-4pm
• Popular old Hollywood hangout and final resting place of Hemingway
• Popular hangout for Australian champion surfer Nat Young and his entourage
• The local ruby trout is a must try but it sells out quickly

Sun Valley

Why Sun Valley 

• Ski resort with the best visibility
• Known for its quality champagne snow
• Can be enjoyed by any level of skier
• Long runs and tree skiing
• Distant mountain views of Sawtooth National Forest, the Boise National Forest and the Salmon Challis National Forest
• Wide variety of dining, bars and galleries
• Great on-mountain dining options
• Wide variety of accommodation
• The elite nature of Sun Valley was set from its start due to its isolated location

Be Aware Of 

• Need to book restaurants in advance as popular downtown Ketchum restaurants can be hard to get into
• Heavy lunchtime crowds at River Run, Warm Springs, Seattle Ridge and the Lookout
• Pricy flights during the ski season into Friedman Memorial Airport, Hailey
• The Cold Springs two-man lift at Bald mountain is older style with no support bar
• Icy snow and shady pockets in the late afternoon

To find out more about Slipstream’s unique travel services, you can check out our website www.slipstream.travel.

Images credits: Base of Bald Mountain from Flickr by Jurvetson, Sun Valley 1961 by Chuck Battles from Flickr by Homini, Sun Valley from Flickr by Rennett Stowe.

Into Africa: From mountains to Lake Victoria and all the wildlife in between, get lured into the beauty of Kenya

If it’s adventure you’re looking for, look no further than Kenya. It’s a single country where you can do it all. Bask in tropical sunshine, or conquer snow-capped mountains. Be rejuvenated by the bubbling hot springs or peer down extinct volcanoes. Wild beasts of the Serengeti jump off the television and into your life.

Escape from society down trails in lush forests or, revel in the cultural melting pot of over 40 ethnic groups. In Kenya you are bound to find heavy influences of the British colonial customs. But a generous sprinkling of Indian and Arab inspiration can also be perceived in the local culture — whether it is the anytime drink Chai (a spiced tea with milk and sugar) or Taraab music. Kenya has something to stir each of our senses. Slipstream’s uniquely crafted Exotic Kenya itinerary will immerse you in every facet of this stunning country and its diversity.

Nairobi

The local Maasai clan called Nairobi Ewaso Nai’beri, or “the place of cold water”, and it has been an oasis for travelers, as the safari capital of Africa, for over a century. Today, this thriving town has heaps more to offer the modern adventurer than just quick passage into the frontier. This remarkable metropolis entices you with urban luxuries like a thriving café culture and pounding nightlife because you jump into Nairobi National Park just outside the city limits.

On its 113 square kilometers of cliffs, plains and forests, large animal populations make their home. And you’ll find it hard to break away after excursions ranging from white water rafting on the beautiful Tana river, to a picnic by Fourteen Falls waterfalls featuring the local culinary sparkle, or a cultural adventure into colourful shops and museums.

Mt. Kenya

Behold a rare and awesome sight when you get to Mt. Kenya – equatorial snow. The second highest peak in Africa, Mt. Kenya is said in local lore to the realm of Ngai, god of the Kikuyu people who also call it Kirinyaga or, “the place of light”. UNESCO inscribed it a World Heritage Site for its rugged glacier-clad pinnacles which roll into cool highlands with trickling mountain streams.

Lake Victoria

Lake Victoria, the world’s second largest freshwater lake, is about the size of Ireland. But the water’s edge doesn’t just offer ample hideaways, it also buzzes with trading towns and villages. Nyanza, as the locals call it, is the heartland of the Luo tribe of expert fisherman and fishing reels in many visitors too, all searching for the Nile Perch.

Aberdares Forest

To the east, are the Aberdares, a peaceful volcanic range. While the crowds have yet to find the area, the wildlife certainly has. With over 250 species of birds to multiple species of monkeys and the largest population of Black Rhinos all calling the Aberdares Forest home, this is an animal lover’s idea of heaven. One breath of the fresh, grassy air and one glance at the misty waterfalls of the terrain, and you’ll know why so many other animals also call it home. Go hiking, fishing, mountain climbing, cave-discovering or game watching and be blown away by the magic of nature at its best but don’t be surprised if you spot a leopard, lion, or even the rare Bongo antelope just lazing away a peaceful day. It is also amidst this surreal beauty that Queen Elizabeth II is said to have learned of her accession to the British throne. Not a bad place for good news, indeed.

Maasai Mara

The Maasai Mara, or the “Kingdom of Lions”, is one of Africa’s supreme wildlife reserves. Adjacent to the Serengeti, you’ll see the Mara and Talek Rivers that abound with hippos and crocodiles, and living close by, big predators like cheetahs and lions. And don’t be surprised to see an elephant or buffalo wading around Musiara Swamp. Each year from July to October, more than a million wildebeest (and tens of thousands of gazelle and zebras too) trek nearly 3,000 kilometers from Tanzania into Kenya as part of the Great Wildebeest Migration. And be inspired by the Maasai people, as they live in harmony with this diverse wildlife around them.

Kenya gives everyone a reason to visit at least once, whether it is reclining on the beach or adrenaline-pumping adventure sports, and the animal spotting is second-to-none.

To find out more about Kenya or other adventurous excursions, visit Slipstream Travel.

Key Facts           

• Hottest months of the year are February and March
• Cooler season falls between July and August
• Mt. Kenya is Africa’s second highest peak with Elevation at 17,057 feet (5,199 meters) and Kenya’s highest mountain
• Kenya produces and exports some of the world’s best tea and coffee among other agricultural products

Why Kenya

• Exotic wildlife and landscapes
• Home to the “Big Five” animals (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino)
• Africa’s finest national parks, mountains and its beaches and lakes filled with flamingos and pelicans
• Diverse cultures to explore with some tribes still living a traditional lifestyle such as the Samburu Massai and Turkana

Be Aware of

• Stick to hotels and banks when using credit cards and use cash for smaller purchases
• Exchanging currencies in Nairobi is recommended as it can be more difficult and more expensive in smaller cities and towns
• Barclays Bank has one of the most reliable ATM machines for international withdrawals, covering most major Kenyan towns
• There’s no harm in rounding up the bill if you’re pleased with the service, otherwise tipping is not common practice among Kenyans

To find out more about Slipstream’s unique travel services, you can check out our website www.slipstream.travel.

Images credits: Kenya by Impact Kenya , Nairobi by Golf-Kenya, Mt. Kenya by Josski at nl.wikicpedia, Lake Victoria by Lake Victoria Experiment, Aberdares Forest by columbusmmug, Masai Mara Cheetah from www.maasaimara.com, Zebras by hdwallpapers