Among the many industries forced to adapt during the pandemic is the wellness field, as spas and salons have had to navigate new and ever-changing safety protocols. For hotel and resort spas located in warmer climates, the most natural fix has been to move things outdoors, with treatment cabanas being set up on the beach or around the pool, and fitness circuits and mini-gymsand even class studiosalso heading al fresco. Touchless services that make use of things like massage beds and infrared light have also become popular, as have touch-free mindfulness therapies such as sound healing and reiki. For places that are offering services inside, more time is being blocked off between appointments so rooms can undergo thorough cleaning, and both therapists and clients are donning masks for the duration of the sessions.

If youre really missing the typical spa experience, however, there is another option to ensure safety: Rent the place out. Many hotels and resorts are allowing guests to book exclusive use of their spas so that small groups can have facilities such as swimming pools, hot tubs, relaxation lounges and more all to themselves, in between enjoying treatments. (Note that in most states, steam rooms and saunas have not yet been approved for reopening.) From Hawaii to Yosemite National Park to Palm Beach, here are eight soothing domestic spots in which you can safely relax, without a stranger in sight.

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8 Soothing Spas Across the US That You Can Have All to Yourself - Robb Report

The National Association of Home Builders Leading Suppliers Council, in collaboration with Pro Builder and Pro Remodeler magazines, unveiled the latest official show homes of the International Builders' Show virtual experience (IBSx): The New American Home 2021 and The New American Remodel 2021. The virtual video presentations of each home, in addition to immersive 3-D virtual tours, will be available for all registered attendees during IBSx, Feb. 9-12.

The New American Home 2021 features a variety of design concepts, efficient construction methods and products. The show home boasts an inverted layout, with the main living areas located on the third floor that feature 14-foot ceilings, abundant light and outdoor living spaces. Centrally located in Florida's downtown Winter Park corridor, this three-story home features three bedrooms, four baths with one half bath, a showroom three-car garage and an exercise room. With numerous ultra-energy-efficient components, this high-performance home was designed and built to be net zero and achieve Emerald level status from the National Green Building Standard. The home is also Energy Star certified and EPA Indoor airPLUS qualified.

The New American Remodel 2021 integrates products and systems that incorporate the latest industry trends. The original 4,081-square-foot property was built in 1973 and featured various ceiling heights throughout. After the builder, E2 Homes, completed an interior and exterior renovation, the home was expanded to 6,549 square feet and now features six bedrooms, six baths with two half baths. It also boasts a summer kitchen, a full-size pool, a fully furnished cabana and an outdoor entertaining area with a lanai. Similar to The New American Home, this home was designed and built to be net zero and achieve Emerald status from the National Green Building Standard. It is also Energy Star certified and EPA Indoor airPLUS qualified.

Each of the homes features spray-foam insulation, solar panels, smart-home operating systems and a full array of energy-efficient appliances.

Phil Kean, owner of Phil Kean Design Group and builder of The New American Home 2021, believes the distinct layout of the home-with the main living areas on the top floor-would be a unique showcase of space optimization. "The interior was designed with the inspiration of an urban loft that overlooks the treetops and was achieved through the meticulous use of many different materials, textures and colors."

For the design of the remodeled show home, builder Rob Smith of E2 Homes noted "its interior was crafted with a focus on enhancing the connection to the outside, through improved views of the lake and easy access to the numerous entertaining spaces."

See more here:
2021 Builders' Show Exhibition Homes Unveiled | Window + Door - Window and Door

CHARLOTTE, N.C., Feb. 4, 2021 /PRNewswire/ --LMC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Lennar Corporation and a leader in apartment development and management, today announced the start of preleasing at The Ellis, a luxury mixed-use apartment community in Uptown Charlotte, the city's central business district.

The Ellis, which features 549 apartment homes and approximately 19,000 square feet of retail space, consists of two distinct apartment buildings and is the first new apartment community north of Trade Street since 2012. The midrise building offers 184 homes and the high-rise includes 365 homes, including 23 luxury penthouse layouts. Virtual tours and online leasing options are available to enable future residents to access a unique and realistic view of the community.

The leasing office at The Ellis is scheduled to open on Feb. 15. Move-ins in the midrise building are scheduled to begin in March with high-rise move-ins to follow in early summer.

"We're excited to welcome our first residents to The Ellis, which will complement the established First and Fourth Ward neighborhoods in Uptown," said Jeff Harris, division president of the Carolinas for LMC. "With a desirable suite of community amenities, proximity to the LYNX light rail, First Ward Park and walkable access to an array of entertainment and employment options, we believe The Ellis will set the standard for quality apartment living in the area."

Located at 512 North College Street, The Ellis offers pedestrian-friendly access to the central business district and direct access to the 9th Street Station of Charlotte's LYNX light rail. Residents also have direct connectivity to the Charlotte Rail Trail, a public trail that traverses through the heart of the city and throughout South End. With many retail, dining and entertainment attractions within walking distance, The Ellis features a Walk Score of 93considered a "walker's paradise." Major employers in the area include Bank of America, Truist, Wells Fargo, Duke Energy, Ally Bank, Honeywell and software company AvidXchange.

The Ellis offers studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom apartment homes ranging from approximately 531 to 2,669 square feet. Apartment interiors include quartz countertops, Whirlpool appliances, Moen fixtures, Nest thermostats, under-cabinet lighting, luxury vinyl-tile flooring, subway tile backsplashes and ceramic tile surrounds in bathrooms. Select homes include kitchen islands with pendant lighting, wine fridges, walk-in showers and walk-in closets with custom organization systems. Penthouse layouts feature Kohler fixtures, JennAir appliances and soaking tubs.

Each building includes its own suite of amenities. The midrise building includes co-working spaces, a transit lounge adjacent to the light rail, a saline pool with cabanas, outdoor fireplace, bar with sweeping views of First Ward Park, fitness center overlooking the pool courtyard, coffee and entertainment lounge areas and a community room.

The 33rd floor of the high-rise building consists of an amenity deck with heated saline pool, cabanas, outdoor fireplace and kitchen, covered lounge area, fitness center overlooking the city skyline, private dining room, game room, library, and an outdoor expansion area for fitness and yoga. Residents will also have access to digital package lockers, a pet spa, dedicated bike storage and a 24/7 concierge in the high-rise building. Additionally, the community is home to North Ellis Lane, a private street that can be shut down to host events such as food trucks and farmers markets.

The Ellis is one of three LMC communities within Charlotte. Others include Bradham at New Bern Station and Novel Stonewall Station.

About LMCLMC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Lennar (NYSE:LEN), is a multifamily real estate development and operating company with a diverse portfolio of institutional quality multifamily rental communities across the US. LMC has a 31,800-unit pipeline of communities ranging from operating to under pre-development that exceeds $12 billion of high-rise, mid-rise and garden apartments.

LMC creates extraordinary communities where people can live remarkably.

http://www.LiveLMC.com

Media ContactMarlena DeFalcoLinnellTaylor Marketing303-682-3943[emailprotected]

SOURCE LMC

http://www.LiveLMC.com

Link:
LMC Announces Start of Preleasing at The Ellis Apartments - PRNewswire

I met Rayni my first week, Mr. Williams said. It was like meeting my best friend someone that liked the same music, the same style, who had an old-school mind-set. And, she came from mortgages, knew contracts, and I was thinking, if I have to do contracts and stuff, Ill never make it in this business.

They have different but complementary personalities.

Branden doesnt hold peoples hands, Mrs. Williams said. He doesnt think that hand holding is efficient. I am a mother and a woman thats more emotional, so I tend to be the coddler.

Bruce Makowsky, a developer, called the couple without a doubt, the two best brokers in Los Angeles. He enlisted the Williamses in 2017 to sell a 12-bedroom Bel Air mansion with a Louis Vuitton-branded bowling alley for $250 million, making it, at the time, the most expensive home in America.

I needed a billionaire to buy that house, Mr. Makowsky said. Unfortunately, it went on the market right after the president decided to alienate China and Russia. After three years, the Williamses sold it to a local businessman for $94 million, an outcome that, given the circumstances, suited Mr. Makowsky just fine. They sell the dream of living in California, he said.

The Williamses are on to the degree that a casual observer would figure they must be on something. In fact, Mr. Williams got sober at 29, and Mrs. Williams at 25, after he commented, You know, youre a good agent, but youd be really good if you stopped drinking. She goes to recovery meetings once a week, he goes once a month.

Every now and then someone will be like, What? Come on, Mrs. Williams said. But then theyll kind of look at us: Wait, youre having this much fun and you dont drink? Branden, youre this crazy and you dont drink? Oh, youre handling our biggest asset? Yeah, stay sober.

Originally posted here:
Branden and Rayni Williams, Power Brokers of Beverly Hills - The New York Times

You might think that youll never afford a house in Mississauga, but some homes are more affordable than youthink!

If youre looking for a low-rise home, you can expect to pay a little more, as low-rise home sales climbed 6 per cent and the average sold price hit $1,151,549 in between April and December 2020. As far as condos go, however, real estate website and brokerage Zoocasa says that units didnt skyrocket in price lastyear.

According to Zoocasa, the average price for condo apartments grew 9 per cent to $515,801 in Peel, with prices climbing 8 per centinMississauga.

So if you want a home for under $550,000, you can findone.

Heres a look at the most and least expensive homes that recently changed hands inMississauga:

LeastExpensive:

1001 - 3065 Queen Frederica Dr

Sold for:$369,000Listed for:$399,900Bedrooms: 2Bathrooms:1

This newly renovated home has a great layout. There is a large open balcony, freshly pained walls, doors and baseboards and new light fixtures. The home is steps away to plazas, stores and highway427.

404 - 2929 AquitaineAve

Listed for: $395,900Sold for: $395,000Bedrooms: 2Bathrooms:2

This is a beautiful two-bedroom, two-bathroom condo in a prime location just steps to restaurants, cafes, shopping, schools andmore.

134 - 3040 ConstitutionBlvd

Listed for: $419,900Sold for: $425,000Bedrooms: 3Bathrooms:1

This open concept townhouse is bright and spacious and has a walkout to the patio from the dining room. The maintenance fee includes cable TV and unlimitedinternet.

2603 - 50 AbsoluteAve

Listed for: $429,900Sold for: $425,000Bedrooms: 1Bathrooms:1

This gorgeous condo is in the heart of Mississauga and it comes with an amazing view of Downtown Toronto and it also comes with an upgraded kitchen with ample cabinets and granite countertops. Close to allamenities.

801 - 810 ScollardCrt

Listed for: $434,900Sold for: $425,000Bedrooms: 2Bathrooms:1

Spacious open concept bedroom suite with high ceilings and extensive onsite amenities and close to shopping malls, banking, transit, parks andhighways.

MOSTEXPENSIVE:

1624 WatersedgeRoad

Sold for: $6,200,000Bedrooms: 3Bathrooms:3

You can get a clear view of the CN Tower and city skyline from this custom built home. The basement is professionally finished with a separate room and walk out to thebackyard.

1443 IndianGrove

Listed for: $4,999,000Sold for: $4,649,000Bedrooms: 5Bathrooms:9

Over 10000 square feet of elegant living space with modern luxury and detailed design. The home comes with high ceilings, an open concept layout, multiple walkouts, an elevator and a salt water ozonated pool with acabana.

54 CumberlandDr

Listed for: $3,789,000Sold for: $3,550,000Bedrooms: 4Bathrooms:3

This Port Credit dream home comes with stunning lake views, a fully finished basement, exposed brick and hardwood floors and direct access to the lake. It also comes with a fully finishedbasement

2024 HeartwoodCrt

Sold for: $3,688,000Bedrooms: 4Bathrooms:6

This luxury home backs on to the credit river ravine and has complete privacy. The home boasts a gorgeous backyard utopia with an infinity pool that will make you feel like you have your own cottage in thecity.

1333 TrotwoodAve

Listed for: $2,875,850Sold for: $2,875,000Bedrooms: 4Bathrooms:6

This home was designed for entertaining. It is an open concept layout with a wet bar/lounge, custom lighting, quartz counters and so muchmore.

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PHOTOS: The most and least expensive homes that just sold in Mississauga - insauga.com

WAUWATOSA, WI A number of Wauwatosa residents remained opposed to a luxury tower proposal even after plans were revised.

One resident called the proposal an "architectural freak show development."

Many residents objected to increasing traffic, shadowing from the tower, impact on property values and said it is not appropriate for the area.

The city asked residents to submit public comments by last Friday. The Community Affairs Committee will discuss this proposal at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday.

The development, proposed by Mo's Restaurant owner John "Johnny V" Vassallo, is at 10845 W. Bluemound, on the former Edwardo's Natural Pizza site, in the southwest corner of the USH 18/STH 100 intersection.

The revised proposal, which was announced on Tuesday, is a mixed use apartment building with 20 stories and approximately 340 residential units, common amenity spaces, parking garage, and ground floor retail. Some of the proposed amenities include Amazon lockers, weight room, pool, grill area, cabanas, pet walking and relief station, movie theater, individual workspace, and conference rooms.

The original proposal called for 25 stories and 354 residential unites.

A number of submitted comments spoke in opposition to the revised plans.

Terrence Hansen of Wauwatosa, "Before this project is voted on, I wish the City would do a fair analysis of the impact this project will have on its immediate neighborhood. While proponents will suggest increased tax revenues, has the City done an impact study on how such a project would affect the neighborhood?

Will property values rise, fall, or remain level? I am betting no such analysis was done before the 2100 Building on Mayfair Road was approved. I have lived in Wauwatosa since 1994. It was a City made up of neighborhoods. We should not destroy a single family neighborhood with an architectural freak show development."

Holly Gore of Wauwatosa, "The public has been opposing this development since last August for many reasons. They have called in to meetings, written the mayor and the alders, and spoken out here. Whether the building is 25 stories or 20 stories, all of the same arguments stand. This is not a well thought out, legal, revised or recalibrated plan.

It is still in violation of the comprehensive plan and is still too dense for the area of small neighborhood homes. This is the same basic plan the plan commission rejected unanimously and the community affairs Committee put on hold. The community affairs committee asked Vassallo to recalibrate his proposal with "improved communication and dialogue." As far as I know, there has been no communication or dialogue with the neighbors. This resubmittal is Disrespectful, and a slap in the face to both the city of Wauwatosa and the neighbors. I remain opposed."

Tyler Johnson of Wauwatosa, "A final thought too is if it were to consist of more 2-3 bedroom apartments and be affordable, it would be a great opportunity to get more families in the neighborhood who might not be able to afford a house with the school, parks, and zoo being just a few blocks away.

Despite all these objections I do think the corner is an ideal spot for a larger projects such as an apartment complex but seeing it scoped down to something reasonable of 10 floors max, as it will stand out even at that level, and with mixed space to add to the community. Done responsibly I do believe a relatively large project on this site could add value to the neighborhood and community as a whole, but all I've seen from the original and revised proposals is a developer trying to maximize his profits at the expense of the neighborhood."

There were a few residents who spoke out in support:

Christopher Carter of Wauwatosa, "First I love the building, the look, the feel, and the way they looked to fit it in that space. Next, the concession is great, coming down those stories looks good yet, and also works to the site. As someone who moved into the area in 1999 I have seen that area grow up, everything but that ugly corner and the small strip behind it.

Mo's started to bring class to the area, then they tore down that old hotel and cleaned it up with the hospital & Starbucks. This building fits the new vibe we need. NOW look at the 300 plus residents moving in and the tax we will be able to add to the city accounts. Can anyone on this committee tell me that that is not needed in a pandemic?

Rather than begging the state, we have someone willing to grow in our area. Rather than being closed off to growth, look at the abilities that can come from a beautiful entranceway to the area from off the hwy. I ask you to look at his proposal and please vote to move forward with the new proposal."

Lucas Vebber of Wauwatosa," As a nearby Wauwatosa resident, I am writing to say that I hope you will support this project. It's a common sense and responsible development that will improve the city, add to our tax base, and make very good use of that space. I hope the city will embrace this new development and the positive impact it will have on our community."

To view all the submitted comments go to the meeting portal page of the City of Wauwatosa website.

Read this article:
Wauwatosa Residents Remain Opposed To Luxury Tower Proposal - Patch.com

Attitudes towards equality have evolved rapidly over the past few years, as have the standards by which we measure discrimination. As a result of these shifts, a question has emerged regarding whether the concept of reverse discrimination exists that is, can individuals who have not been historically disadvantaged experience discrimination? This in turn begs the broader question does discrimination occur anytime there is any difference in treatment?

As outlined below, the Ontario Human Rights Tribunal has been disinclined to accept applications of reverse discrimination, on account of the need to promote substantive equality, rather than formal equality.

Substantive versus Formal Equality

The case law has been clear that the Human Rights Code (the Code) aims to remedy substantive inequality, rather than formal inequality. Substantive inequality requires not only differential treatment, but differential treatment which can create a disadvantage by perpetuating a prejudice or stereotype.1 This is in contrast with formal inequality, which occurs anytime individuals are treated differently, regardless of the reasons that may exist for the differential treatment.

Accordingly, under human rights legislation such as the Code, the focus of a discrimination analysis ought to be on whether the action in question reinforces, perpetuates, or exacerbates a disadvantage. The Supreme Court of Canada has also recently held that membership in protected groups often brings with it a unique constellation of physical, economic and social barriers, and that the identical treatment of individuals, without accounting for such barriers, may in fact produce inequality.2 In other words, differential treatment is sometimes necessary in order to achieve true, substantive equality.

Bearing these principles in mind, the following applications were dismissed by the Tribunal on account of failing to establish that substantive equality was violated.

Scottish imagery

In Lindsay v Toronto District School Board,3 the applicant, a white, Scottish male, alleged that the respondent schools team name, mascot, and logos portrayed a stereotypical image of Scottish people as being angry. He further alleged that this portrayal constituted an appropriation of Scottish identity, which created a disadvantage for Scottish people. In support of his argument, the applicant provided articles and publications which purportedly demonstrated the current and historical discrimination faced by Scottish people.

He also raised the comparison of Indigenous-themed logos, mascots, and imagery, noting that the Ontario Human Rights Commission had previously called on municipalities to remove such imagery from non-Indigenous sports organizations. He further submitted that his Tribunal application would receive less scrutiny if he were not white and Scottish.

In dismissing the application as having no reasonable prospect of success, the Tribunal stated that the applicant failed to provide evidence which demonstrated that Scottish people were stereotyped as angry, uncivilized people. Specifically, all but one of the applicants sources were specific to the United Kingdom, and none of the sources discussed the experience of Scottish people in Ontario. Moreover, the lone Canadian source discussed the appropriation of Gaelic culture in Nova Scotia, rather than the stereotypes faced by Scottish people.

In addressing the applicants comparisons to Indigenous-themed logos and imagery, the Tribunal stated, Choosing Indigenous people as a comparator seems a poor choice for the applicants purposes the history of Indigenous people in Canada, including Ontario, has undoubtedly been one that includes significant marginalization and disadvantage; as such, it would hardly be necessary for an Indigenous applicant to establish disadvantage, prejudice, and stereotyping in an application before the Tribunal. Conversely, the applicants inability to provide evidence of negative stereotypes or disadvantages faced by Scottish people in Ontario resulted in the dismissal of his application as having no reasonable prospect of success.

Higher cover charge fees for men

In Maclean v The Barking Frog,4 the applicant alleged that the respondent (a bar and restaurant) discriminated against him on the basis of sex by charging women a lesser cover fee than men, thereby perpetuating a belief that men were less worthy than women.

In dismissing the application as having no reasonable prospect of success, the Tribunal reiterated that the Code strives to achieve substantive equality, rather than formal equality, and that not all formal distinctions in treatment amounted to discrimination.

The Tribunal went on to reject the argument that the different cover charges implied that men were less worthy than women, noting:

There are many things that could be said about societal beliefs in Ontario, but the notion that men are less worthy than women is not among them. In fact, the entire history of gender discrimination in this province reveals the opposite, which is why women had to fight for basic equality through a right to vote and for equal pay for equal work, to give just two examples. While progress has been made, discrimination against women in our society still persists In my view, the notion that charging a lower cover charge for women somehow demeans men as a gender in the overall societal context does not bear scrutiny.

The applicant had also argued that the different cover fees discouraged men from entering the bar. The Tribunal rejected this argument and accepted that the purpose of the different cover fees was to attract more women to the establishment and in turn, increase the attendance of men due to the presence of more women. The Tribunal denied that this strategy could be viewed as substantive discrimination, in light of the privileged position that men hold in our society.

The Tribunal ended its decision by noting that while the applicant may have viewed the differential cover charges as being unfair, unfairness in some general sense does not mean it is discriminatory within the meaning and purpose of human rights legislation.

Similarly, in Roncali v Cabana Pool Bar,5 the applicant, who self-identified as male, alleged that the respondents policy of charging men a higher cover charge than women amounted to discrimination due to sex and gender identity. The Tribunal followed the reasoning in Barking Frog to find that differential cover fees between men and women did not amount to substantive discrimination based on sex, insofar as it did not perpetuate a stereotype or disadvantage for men.

The applicant in Roncali further argued that the respondent discriminated on the basis of gender identity, as its staff failed to verify his gender and charged him the higher cover fee simply on the basis of the applicants physical appearance and dress. The applicant stated that this process left room for error and could pose challenges for transgendered individuals.

The Tribunal dismissed this argument by first noting that, in order to establish a contravention of the Code, the applicant must belong to the protected group in question. In this instance, the applicant was not transgendered; it was therefore not open to him to make a claim of discrimination due to gender identity. The Tribunal further stated that there was no factual basis to the applicants claim; his argument was based solely on a hypothetical scenario in which he was transgender and/or a transgendered person may have encountered difficulties at the respondents establishment. As such, the application was dismissed as having no reasonable prospect of success.

Assignment of male-only clients

In Galuego v Spectrum Health Care,6 the applicant was a male personal support worker (PSW) for the respondent employer, a home health care provider which sent PSWs to clients homes to assist with various personal tasks, including bathing and dressing. The applicant alleged that the respondent employer discriminated on the basis of sex by assigning the male PSWs to only male clients, while female PSWs were assigned both male and female clients. The applicant stated that as a result of this differential treatment, he worked fewer hours than his female counterparts.

The respondent acknowledged that male PSWs were not assigned to female clients. However, it explained that most female clients preferred female PSWs, due to the intimate nature of the duties that the PSWs performed.

The respondent also provided evidence to demonstrate that the applicant in fact worked more hours than the average female PSW. When presented with this evidence on cross-examination, the applicant replied that his concern was not with his hours of work, but that he felt inferior as a result of the respondents failure to assign him to female clients. In his closing submissions, he also noted that he lost self-respect because the respondent viewed him as a sexual predator.

The Tribunal found that the respondents differential treatment did not amount to substantive discrimination, as it did not perpetuate an arbitrary disadvantage on the applicant. Rather, the practice of not assigning male PSWs to female clients was rooted in the inequality between men and women, which included sexual harassment and violence against women. It was also noted that the female clients vulnerability was compounded by the fact that they tended to be elderly.

The Tribunal also assigned little weight to the applicants modified evidence that the differential treatment made him feel inferior, or that he lost self-respect. The Tribunal noted that these arguments were not in his original application or testimony-in-chief, nor was there any evidence that the respondent viewed him as a sexual predator. The Tribunal further stated that the applicants modified position was simply an unconvincing, after-the-fact attempt to shore up his allegation of discrimination in the face of credible and reliable evidence that undermined his position.

Based on the foregoing, the Tribunal dismissed the application.

Takeaways for Investigators

While formal inequality is often easy to detect (i.e., is there differential treatment?), substantive inequality requires a more nuanced approach. To establish substantive inequality in a discrimination allegation, organizations and investigators may wish to consider the following:

The above-noted cases provide important insight when examining the merits of a discrimination claim raised by a historically non-marginalized individual. While discrimination can take many forms, it is nonetheless incumbent on organizations and investigators to critically assess each complaint, bearing in mind the true purpose of the Code: to protect substantive equality.

Go here to read the rest:
Does reverse discrimination exist? According to these cases, probably not. - Lexology

With the world in turmoil, we all need something to look forward to, and what better prospect than an ultra-luxurious socially distant vacation. Upscale Living magazine brings you ten of the most opulent choices for 2021 to start planning now.

About an hour northwest of Atlanta lies Barnsley Resort. The 3,000-acre resort-meets-playground is the perfect backdrop to relax and enjoy a covid-friendly escape. The resort is home to a 55-room Inn as well as a mix of 39 luxurious private and semi-private cottages, which range from one to seven bedrooms and easily allow for safe social distancing with private porches and entrances.

Furthermore, the resort offers many outdoor activities, providing endless opportunities to stay entertained with plenty of space to socially distance. Indulge in sophisticated dishes at Rice House, a beautiful 19th-century farmhouse restaurant that practices a true garden-to-table philosophy, or enjoy elevated southern-inspired cuisine at Woodlands Grill, overlooking the picturesque golf course and surrounding hills. To further enhance guest safety, the main restaurants have reduced capacities and are currently operating on a reservations-only system to maintain a maximum capacity.

For the most luxurious accommodations, look no further than the Queens Suite on the Inns second floor, which was newly constructed in 2018. This suite offers 1,200 sq. ft. of space with a private living and dining room, a separate bedroom with a king bed and soaking tub, and an expansive outdoor terrace overlooking the resorts grounds. In addition to a dining table set for six, this suite includes a butlers pantry and powder room.

Deeper into the Tuscan mountains, the medieval city of Lucca will not only welcome travelers looking for an off-the-beaten patch escape but also its first full-service luxury hotel the Grand Universe Lucca, Autograph Collection. Standing stylishly and overlooking Piazza del Giglio and Piazza Napoleone, the former 16th-century palazzo will debut a masterfully renovated design, fueled by art and music-focused concept that is beautifully evocative of the citys past and present.

The hotels unique location in the magical city of Lucca offers a unique perspective on Tuscanys rich historical and culinary culture, as well as an alternative for travelers with a newly developed affection for less-crowded cities with equally enriching experiences. North American travelers anticipating a return to Italy in 2021 can look forward to performances by Celine Dion, John Legend, and Ben Harper, amongst others, during the 2021 Lucca Summer Festival, hosted in July adjacent to the property where a number of guest rooms face the piazza.

Fifty-five elegantly decorated guest rooms and suites reflect a unique blend of timeless elegance and contemporary sophistication, with earthy colors, wooden surfaces, and golden details, combined with lush silk and velvet textiles. Delicate suspended pendant lights made of glass pay homage to the propertys glassblowing history. Music being one of the hotels inherent pillars, the name of each room reflects this culture.

One of only five camps in the Olare Motorogi Conservancy, Mara Plains, has unrivaled access to more than 100,000 acres of exclusive land, prime habitat for a vast number of wildlife species, as well as unfettered access to the 375,000 acres Maasai Mara Reserve. Hailed as one of the finest places in Africa, guests might struggle to decide between sightings of lions, cheetahs, hyenas, and leopards.

The design and dcor pay homage to the essence of East Africa; Swahili heritage is reflected in large wooden doors from the island of Lamu and accents of red to honor the great Maasai chiefs and warriors. With the rich leathers, copper, and brass used in campaign-style furniture, you have a lavish yet comfortable atmosphere that complements rather than overwhelms the surrounding wilderness.

Great Plains Conservation is thrilled to announce the construction of a brand-new villa opening on June 1st, 2021, the Mara Jahazi Suite. This will be an exclusive use villa residence consisting of a three-bedroom suite, shared lounge, and dining area, including a private game drive vehicle, guide, and chef. The Mara Jahazi Suite will be privately guided and hosted. The new villa in the trees is ideal for group travelers and multi-generational travel and accommodates children aged 8 and up.

Early 2021 will see the much-anticipated launch of Moskito Island in the BVIs, situated just two miles from sister island, Necker. Home to the Branson Estate, which is newly available for rental, next year will see the full launch of Moskito Island in what has already been described as the most exclusive homeowners association in the world. As the island sets to launch with brand new uber-luxury private Estates for rental, it is most certainly one to watch for 2021.

The privately-owned Caribbean island is made up of 10 individual estates, all set within 125 acres of stunning paradise. It is jointly owned by Sir Richard Branson and individual homeowners, who together are creating one of the most exclusive collections of upscale luxury estates in the world. Virgin Limited Edition is responsible for the management of the island, and a number of those estates will be available for rental on an individual basis in the near future.

Many of the Moskito Island estates remain in the early stages of completion. The luxury 11-bedroom Branson Estate, owned by Sir Richard Branson, is one of the first available for rental, with other estates expected to become available as we move through 2021. Moskito Island will go far beyond conventional villa rental by providing guests with luxury private homes on a privately owned Caribbean island.

Encapsulating the laid-back glamour of the French Riviera, the MUSE Saint-Tropez is the ultimate secluded retreat. The property is perched atop a rocky clifftop in the picturesque medieval village of Ramatuelle, providing guests with an oasis of serenity amongst a variety of flora and fauna in the heart of an award-winning ecological and self-sustainable garden designed by acclaimed landscape artist Sophie Agata Ambroise.

The chic retreat reflects architectural simplicity with its pure lines, beautiful terraced gardens weaving around the swimming pool, a stylish bar, and a charming reception area. Its fifteen luxurious suites, each dedicated to famous muses and characteristically individual decor and ambiance, lie nestled around the enchanting garden and feature private plunge pools, a private garden and terrace, an outdoor shower, and exceptional bathrooms. During their stay, guests can enjoy sitting by the beautiful main pool on the luxurious cabanas.

The property also boasts La Tente by Spa Village, offering a menu of vitality treatments for guests, inspired by the natural abundance of the landscape, and features vitality treatments that harness the resort and gardens potent herbs, flowers, and plants. For a truly socially distanced stay, guests also have the option of receiving their spa treatments in the comfort of their own suite, which includes a personal spa service room.

The months of May through November mean one thing in Patagonia: puma season. Although Chiles largest land carnivores are known to be elusive,Quasar Expeditionsoffers guests the chance to witness the magnificent creatures through theirPuma Tracking Safaris. Travelers have the opportunity to spend their days outdoors observing the wild cats thanks to the expertise of Quasars tracking team, trained to maximize chances of seeing the worlds largest mountain lions and assisting guests in discovering a side of Patagonia most travelers never get to see.

Additionally, guests have access to the top highlights in Patagonia, such as kayaking, hiking, and ice trekking, and the freedom to explore the region at their own pace in their very own Jeep Wrangler, either via a self-drive experience (where they are behind the wheel and in complete control) or alternatively on a guided tour where one of Quasars expert guides accompanies them throughout the trip in a separate vehicle.

After exciting days of tracking pumas and zipping around Patagonia in their Jeeps, guests stay at some of the top hotels and lodges in all of South America where they can unwind with a relaxing spa treatment, delicious meal, and luxurious room. Travelers get to experience both outdoor adventure and comfort, creating a best of both worlds vacation.

Located within the prestigious and highly sought-after Anahita Golf and Spa Resort on the East Coast of Mauritius, Villa Charlotte combines luxury living with exemplary architecture and design. With 9,730 ft2 of living space, comprising six bedrooms and a spectacular, landscaped private garden with a stunning 25-meter pool, the villa offers the perfect space for rest and relaxation.

Positioned next to the stunning swimming pool, the large open plan kitchen and living space is the heart of Villa Charlotte. Each of the rooms has been individually decorated and feature custom-made, locally-made furniture throughout. Uniquely, Villa Charlotte boasts superb sea, golf, and mountain views, collectively showcasing the panoramic backdrop of this stunning piece of the island. The generous master bedroom offers complete privacy with its own expansive terrace benefitting from the trio of outstanding views.

Part of Richstone Collections private luxury villas and manors available for selective private rentals and secluded vacation bookings, this pristine property encapsulates the ultimate in bespoke high-end service Richstone Collection is renowned for. The newest addition to the Richstone Collection, Villa Charlotte is a breathtaking property within the Anahita Resort, home of the Four Seasons Hotel, on the paradise island of Mauritius. Putting guests minds at ease, Richstone Collection takes considerable measures at each property to ensure proper sanitary precautions to protect guests during their stay.

New to the rental market in 2021,VillaFosis a beautifully refurbished luxuryvillanestled above Kalami in the sought-after north-east ofCorfu. Up to ten adults and two children can enjoy the propertys expansive yet private setting, the private chef, heated infinity pool, and uninterrupted panoramic sea views.

Thevillahas been cleverly designed to capitalize on its spectacular location: expect immaculate views across three floors, verandas where you can enjoy mealtimes and sunset viewing.VillaFosalso boasts an elevator that connects all three floors, as well as providing access to anyone with wheelchair specifications. On the ground floor, two en-suite bedrooms have access to a large canopy veranda, in addition to a fully equipped modern gym. The middle floor has three en-suite bedrooms; two double bedrooms and a master bedroom with a double bed, an open-plan bathroom with a free-standing bath, as well as access to a large balcony.

The top floor consists of a fully equipped open plan kitchen, dining and lounge area with a beautiful veranda that has an outdoor bbq area, a large dining table that comfortably seats twelve guests. Its easy to spend the whole day outside at Villa Fos with plenty of options on where to soak up the sun, lounge in the shade, or cool off in your private pool.

Villa La Vigie is one of the most iconic villas on the French Riviera a property regularly visited by Karl Lagerfeld between 1986 and 2000 and a home he held so dear to his heart. Located on the cape of the Monte-Carlo Beach and set amid a tree-filled private estate, Villa La Vigie offers unparalleled views of the Mediterranean, the Principality, and the bay of Roquebrune-Cap-Martin.

Acquired by Monte-Carlo Socit des Bains de Mer (SBM) in 1952, La Vigie was rented year-round to Karl Lagerfeld. In return for a rather modest rental price, Lagerfeld undertook extensive restoration work in the villa, ensuring that its exotic garden and panoramic terrace overlooking the sea retained its neoclassical charm.

Spread over three levels and offering 6 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 2 dressing rooms, high-end appliances, and discreet and elegant dcor, it also boasts a superb 237-square-meter terrace. Marble, columns, fireplaces, parquet flooring, and high ceilings create a modern and sophisticated ambiance. The villa has its own private road and is surrounded by a tree-covered park so you can arrive by helicopter and be whisked off in a luxury car transfer and arrive at the villa in minutes! This glamourous and modern beachside hotel, designed by renowned architect India Mahdavi, excludes elegance.

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Ultra Luxurious Socially Distanced Vacations To Plan For This Year - Upscale Living Magazine

Over the years, we've seen many different versions of pop music legend Madonna, as she has mastered the art of reinventing herself. "That's me. Resilience and reinvention. And that's how we keep going," the singer told Kim Kardashian during anevent for MDNASKIN. And whew, she sure has bought some interesting stuff throughout her different eras.

Who could forget the Material Girl's mid-'00s Kabbalah phase? "It's a belief system. It's incredibly scientific and, as I said, it predates religion. Madonna said toLarry King of the faith. When asked how she discovered the religious group, she said, "I was looking for the answers to life...What am I doing here? What is my purpose?....I heard about these classes they were teaching. I heard they were very scientific in nature."

Well, according toIn Touch Weekly(via Today),Madonna reportedly racked upa monthly bill of $10,000 on... water. Specifically, blessed bottled Kabbalah water. Each bottle cost $5 a piece, and apparently, she couldn't get enough of the stuff. So much so, that she, according toThe Mirror, apparently wanted to fill her pool with it. Alas, as the outlet goes on to state, then-estranged husband Guy Richie pumped the brakes on that plan.It's a shame because MTV Cribs would've had a field day.

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The Most Bizarre Things Celebrities Splurged On - Nicki Swift

The third phase of StreetLights Residentials project at The Canals at Grand Park, The Margo, is now open. The four-story development, located at 4545 Mission Avenue in Frisco, Texas, offers 358 luxury residences ranging from studios to townhomes. This is the third residential project StreetLights, a national design-driven developer of multifamily and mixed-use communities based in Dallas, has developed in The Canals, with phases one and two, The Kathryn and The Maxwell, already completed.

Were thrilled to complete the third phase of The Canals at Grand Park and continuing to expand our presence in Frisco, said StreetLights vice president of development, Greg Coutant. The Margo is a perfect example of our missiondesigning beautiful homes that combine simple elegance with the convenience of a vibrant, growing neighborhood.

Offering unexpected spaces with the added benefit of community, The Margo features smartly designed, beautifully crafted interiors. Floorplans are available in studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom plans as well as townhomes, ranging from 507 to 2,094 square feet, including two kitchen and bath scheme design options. Each home features Sonos One smart speakers, as well as dine-in gourmet islands and crafted kitchen cabinetry including a pull-out trash drawer. Custom lighting accents, wood style flooring, and 10-foot crafted ceilings and eight-foot doorways create an open, inviting space. Oversized balconies or private yards are available in select units, as well as urban mud rooms in entryways, custom built-in bookcases and desks, and rainfall or handheld showerheads and energy-efficient washers and dryers.

When spending time outdoors, The Margo offers a full suite of community amenities, including an oversized pool with lounge seating, cabanas and sun deck, as well as an outdoor kitchen and media lounge for entertaining. Other exclusive amenities include co-working spaces, a Makers creative space and potting shed, private dining and library, a pet lawn and spa and a bike repair and storage station. Electric car charging stations are also available for residents.

The Margo combines exceptional design with ultimate convenience, providing easy access to Friscos thriving downtown area, as well as shopping and dining at the Star District and nearby Legacy West. The Margo is also steps away from Founders Hall, a spacious community center offering indoor and outdoor activities including a pet park for the entire south side of The Canals at Grand Park, with monthly resident events hosted by Apartment Life.

StreetLights Creative Studio was the architect of record. Ink + Oro designed the leasing and amenity spaces. Gables Residential is the property manager.

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StreetLights Residential announces opening of The Margo in Frisco REJournals - REjournals.com