Folio.YVR ☆ Issue 22 Travel Edition ☆ 2023 ☆ Luxury Lifestyle Magazine ☆ Vancouver, BC

folio.yvr
ISSUE #22
Travel Edition
DECEM BER 2023

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THE VENETIA N HOTEL | Las Vegas, Nevada

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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF | Publisher's M essage
Welcome to Issue # 22 and the first day of
20 24! Folio.YVR Luxury Lifestyle M agazine just
wrapped its fifth year of publishing and we are
celebrating with a Special Travel Edition.
Having lived on the West Coast for over 35
years, as much as I love it, the desire to explore
and experience has never faded.
In this retrospective issue, we begin with a
phenomenal re-imagined luxury property that
epitomizes the best of what the city offers to
the young affluent dreamers who are driving
business and innovation without the constraints
of a traditional system that kept previous
generations tied to a desk, a career, and
pension after decades of loyal service.
The Paradox Hotel Vancouver has been
beautifully reborn into the ' It' place to be, to
stay at (whether travelling or not), and be seen
at. With its w orld- class w hite glove service
and dining opportunities (Karma Lounge and
world-renowned M ott 32, Xylia Spa, and
M ansion nightclub, it is an ecosystem unto itself.
Once in, guests will have difficulty deciding
when to check out!
We take you aboard the Scenic Eclipse, the
world's first ultra-luxury cruise ship - think a
5-star yacht experience on a much grander
scale. Complete with its submarine and two
helicopters, offering guests a different
perspective on gliding through the
Scandinavian Fjords and the magical world of
Antarctica.
Hit the tracks on the world's top-rated luxury
train ride! The M aharajah' s Express offers
excursions between October and April. Guests
are treated to seven provinces at a royal level,
the finest cuisine, a personal butler, and
experiences that will change how you perceive
heritage and splendour.
Our team ventured out of Canada and brought
back stories from Greece (Ethos Vegan
Retreat), Africa (Kw itonda Lodge), circled
back to Fairmont Banff Springs for a bit of
'castle time,' then on to Whistler to visit the
exceptionally gorgeous ice caves with
Head- Line M ountain Holidays, ferried to
Vancouver Island to revisit the spectacular
mountainside Villa Eyrie, and got cozy in
Victoria at M agnolia Hotel & Spa.
Would any travel compilation be complete
without a weekend in Vegas? Resort' s World
Las Vegas has created the first Asian-themed
wonder in a city with 38.8M annual visitors.
Guests can choose from any of the three hotels
on the property (Hilton, Conrad, Crockfords),
dance all night at infamous nightclub Zouk,
unwind at Aw ana Spa, shop, and dine at 50
restaurants, including the award-winning vegan
fine dining restaurant Crossroads Kitchen.
My EIC photo is a throwback to a November
20 18 visit to Las Vegas to experience one of the
last dates of Celine Dion's residency. We sought
opulence in our hotel stay and chanced upon
the perfect place - The Venetian Las Vegas.
With its majestic style - from the moment you
step off the sidewalk, cross the faux Venice
waterways, and into the building - everything is
maximized! Our suite was two levels of
gloriously retro style, with every inch bedecked
in green velvet, luscious fabrics, and white
wainscotting. Truly unforgettable.
Moving into 20 24, we promise to share more
adventures that begin at Vancouver's airports,
ferry terminals, or train stations. Acknowledging
that we all travel differently, and whether you
take the time to enjoy the journey or the
destination is up to you, but keep seeking and
sharing with those around you. We all learn
from experiencing other cultures.
Helen Siwak

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PA RA DOX HOTEL | Dow ntow n Vancouver

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TABLE OF CON TEN TS
PUBLISHER' S M ESSAGE
PARADOX HOTEL
/ XYLIA N ATURAL SPA
/ KARM A LOUN GE
/ M AN SION N IGHTCLUB
/ M OTT 32 RESTAURAN T
SCEN IC ECLIPSE LUXURY CRUISE
FAIRM ON T BAN FF SPRIN GS
/ RUN DLE BAR
HEAD- LIN E M OUN TAIN HOLIDAYS
RESORTS WORLD LAS VEGAS
/ CROSSROADS RESTAURAN T
/ AWAN A SPA
M AHARAJAHS' EXPRESS TRAIN
ETHOS VEGAN RETREAT
KWITON DA LODGE
VILLA EYRIE RESORT
M AGN OLIA HOTEL & SPA
/ THE COURTN EY ROOM
/ THE M AGN OLIA SPA
M ASTHEAD / IM AGE CREDITS

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PARADOX
HOTEL
VANCOUVER

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PA RA DOX HOTEL | Dow ntow n Vancouver
t r a v e l

P H V
Centrally located on the edge of the
city's West End, Paradox Hotel
Vancouver is no ordinary building, as it
was designed by a world-renowned
Canadian architect and celebrated local
luminary, Arthur Erickson. The 69-story
tower is Vancouver's second-tallest
building and a landmark on the city's
skyline. The iconic twisting tower is
stunning not only on the outside but also
on the inside.
The architectural twist rotates each floor
to allow every room to have its unique
floorplan with distinct views looking out
from the floor- to- ceiling w indow s.
Paradox Hotel Vancouver rooms capture
the city from every angle - with cityscape
views of Coal Harbour, Stanley Park and
a stunning backdrop of mountains beyond
the downtown core.
Paradox breaks the mould of what most
think a ' luxury lifestyle' hotel would look
and feel like. This hotel is a place that is
both comfortable and eccentric, with an
intimate sense of space and an
atmosphere of chance encounters.
Paradox is a bold, modern take on
upscale lifestyle and boutique hotel that
is pet- friendly and so chic.
Think of it as classic but not conservative;
sophisticated but unpretentious. Even the
carefully curated interiors and exteriors
invite immersive experiences.
Upon launching last year, Holborn Group
CEO Joo Kim Tiah shared, "Our global
teams possess decades of experience
and an established network of industry
partners, having developed and
operated numerous high-profile hotels
worldwide.
"We strive to be at the vanguard of
curating inspiring and exceptional
experiences for our travellers, so it was
imperative to not only come out with our
own distinct brand but also create
something that would exceed
expectations by challenging the industry
status quo.
"We have always wanted to consolidate
our hotels, and the time to embark on this
meaningful journey is right now."

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The accommodations at Paradox Hotel
Vancouver blend urban residential living and
sophistication across its 147 stylish guest
rooms, 16 bespoke one- bedroom suites,
and the crown jewel, Paradox
One- Bedroom Suite.
At every turn, staff go above and beyond to
deliver more than just w hite- glove service.
Their efforts cultivate an atmosphere of
social energy that engages emotions and
inspires guests to seek new experiences.
Personal touchpoints that express our
thoughtful and witty approach to hospitality
are woven into the design of the Paradox' s
amenities and facilities.
It is not a reach to say that guests from all
over the world are drawn to the vibrant
spirit of the Paradox and how it has become
a playground for curious souls and
adventurous travellers.
This prime location offers
15,0 0 0 - square- feet of innovative event
spaces, the serene 6,0 0 0 - square- foot
Xylia N atural Spa, a fitness centre, an
indoor pool, and a sprawling terrace with
an oversized hot tub.

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M EETIN GS AN D EVEN TS
The Paradox offers seven distinctive,
high-style meeting rooms to host an
impressive conference, an unforgettable
wedding, or an elegant special occasion,
with over 15,0 0 0 - square- feet of
sophisticated space available.
The meeting spaces are crafted with
enhanced privacy and are adaptive to
your needs, setting the stage for successful
collaborations.
Lean on our team of seasoned planners as
they tailor an event that aligns with your
budget and surpasses your expectations.
CRAFTIN G BESPOKE WEDDIN GS
The Paradox's bespoke w edding
packages offer a range of options to suit
everyone's style, from intimate gatherings
in the elegant English Bay Room to grand
celebrations in the stunning Grand
Ballroom.
Wedding planners, brides-to-be, or
whoever is seeking assistance has access
to a dedicated wedding team committed
to conceiving and creating a flaw less
w edding day. Providing guidance every
step of the way to ensure that every
wedding detail reflects the unique love
story unfolding.

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All catering needs are handled in-house by
Paradox's award-winning culinary team,
which takes pride in crafting personalized
menus, using the freshest ingredients to create
dishes that will delight your guests.
There are four unique packages to choose
from - Unveiled (intimate celebration),
Unbridled (let your love run wild),
Unparalleled (celebrating in grand style),
and Unleashed (the crème de la crème of
wedding packages). Let the team at Paradox
bring your dream wedding to life!
M ORE THAN A GREAT N IGHT' S SLEEP
With a personal touch that feels more
residential than a hotel, each room is a
stunningly designed home base for the
creative class, metropolitan nomad, and
adventure-seeking urbanite.
The 147 rooms and suites have stylish modern
décor, highlighted by floor-to-ceiling
windows that offer welcoming views of the
Vancouver skyline. Owing to the hotel's unique
architecture, no two views are alike, but all
are spectacular.
With nine different room styles, your view and
comfort are ensured. The rooms are crafted
to be an inviting respite from the urban bustle
and envelop guests with sophisticated
touches like European oak hardw ood floors
and oversized beds with custom chrome
headboards.
The N ublado Italian marble bathrooms have
heated floors, rain showers, FIG+ YARROW
bathroom amenities, and velvety cotton
robes.

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Each suite has 55 " Samsung flatscreen TVs,
Bluetooth alarm clock speakers, and
Crestron® multi-lingual touchpads, which put
the guest in control of fine-tuning the room's
ambience with automated blinds,
roller-shades, lighting, and temperature.
When it is just too difficult to think about
getting out of bed, your suite comes with a
minibar stocked with premium liquors,
w ines and light bites sourced from
Vancouver's top snack purveyors. For
something more substantial, order in-room
dining from Karma Lounge.
Paradox Hotel Vancouver pulls off the rare
act of alchemy in blending high luxury with
truly relaxed home- aw ay- from- home
hospitality.
Vancouver is a very versatile city in terms of
having both the mountains and the oceans
easily accessible within the same day if not
hours. By choosing the Paradox Hotel
Vancouver guests and visitors have the best of
all worlds at their fingertips.
PARADOX HOTEL VAN COUVER
1161 West Georgia Street
Vancouver, BC

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X YLIA NA TURA L SPA | Paradox Hotel Vancouver
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Named after the Greek word
for ' forest,' the Paradox Hotel's
Xylia N atural Spa is a serene
retreat from Vancouver's hectic
downtown, offering a haven of
tranquillity with personalized
offerings.
From the moment a guest
crosses the threshold from the
chic elegance of the Paradox
into the lush plant-filled Xylia,
they know they are about to be
enveloped in an experience
like none other.
At the heart of Xylia Natural
Spa is Lena Wu. She believes,
"Every person is wonderfully
unique, and I cherish that. It's
my passion to create spa rituals
that are not just routines but
journeys tailored just for you.
Inspired by the age-old wisdom
of nature and well-being, our
spa treatments are more than
just therapies; they are a
celebration of your
individuality."
The spa features seven rooms
of holistic healing arts that
cater to all wellness needs -
physical, emotional, and
spiritual - providing a
sanctuary for the mind and
body and offering various
curated rituals (M ind Body
Balance, Heavenly Holistic
Journey Retreat, Bliss
Transformational Journey),
facials (Jade & Rose Quartz
Facial, Facials from the
Forest), manicures and
pedicures, and massage
therapies.

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All accompanied by healthy snacks
and herbal teas made from organic
ingredients.
With the individual in mind, Xylia
Natural Spa combines Eastern and
Western massage techniques to
create a more fulfilling experience
than most are familiar with. Offering
an intuitive approach to spa rituals
helps guests reach their goals of
optimal well-being through the
technique and implementation that
are natural and ethically sourced,
10 0 % organic, vegan, and
cruelty- free.
Drawn from the ancient wisdom of
well-being and nature, the exquisite
treatments at Xylia are inspired by
the East and West's healing arts and
massage techniques.
With the belief that each guest is
unique and deserving, they take an
intuitive and responsive approach to
rejuvenating one's natural energy
flow through customized treatments.
With this mindset, the spa's
treatments are genuinely effective in
restoring physical and mental
well-being.
One thing that is immediately
noticeable when guests enter a
treatment room is the lack of
technology.
Facials
Facial treatments use the healing
power of touch only and are
complex with multiple levels of
contact and layering of product, and
include intense spot massages
(head/ scalp, hands, feet) that leave
the guest feeling relaxed and
refreshed.
M assage
Guests are invited to experience
ancient healing traditions for
ultimate rejuvenation and relaxation.
With various options that include
treatments such as Haw aiian Lomi-
Lomi, Sw edish approaches with a
Xylia Signature treatment, and deep
holistic techniques featuring
Indonesian, Ayurvedic, Chinese and
pressure point and reflexology
massages, Xylia offers a
one-of-a-kind experience that will
leave you feeling restored from the
inside out.
Heavenly Holistic Journey
"Embrace the touch of heaven" with
Xylia's tailored Heavenly Holistic
Facial and massage package that
guides the recipient on a path of
divine rejuvenation that engages all
five senses.

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Therapists will balance the guest's energy with
this ultimate indulgence, a spa experience that
combines a 10 5- minute holistic facial, steam
show er, and a 90 - minute signature massage,
which features a holistic collection of Eastern
massage techniques, crystals, and energy
cleansing herbal smudge.
THE COUPLES EXPERIEN CE
For the ultimate staycation indulgence, reserve
the signature and luxurious Couples Spa Suite
with a Personalized Massage with your special
someone and experience the benefits of
resting, unwinding and relaxing together.
Included is a Eucalyptus steam show er, both
private and spacious for two, to begin this
journey together. Xylia's signature Couples
Massage combines Deep Tissue, Sw edish, and
Sports M assage into an hour-long session to
enjoy together. It is deeply relaxing for both
partners as two masseurs work on you
simultaneously. It is the perfect setting to
connect physically and emotionally with each
other to experience the closeness that brings
two people closer as a couple.
Lena shares, "I firmly believe that every guest
who walks through our doors deserves to be
treated with the utmost care and attention.
That's why we listen, we understand, and we
craft each treatment to rejuvenate not just your
body, but your spirit too. It's about realigning
your energy, restoring your balance, and
helping you flourish in life."

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K A RM A LOUNGE | Paradox Hotel Vancouver
KTo business professionals, local socialites,
and visitors, the Paradox Hotel's
Karma Lounge is an opulent downtown
alternative to 'the usual' that provides an
opportunity to enjoy casual yet upscale
dining, hand-crafted and adventurous
cocktails, and an even better party after
the work day is over.
Karma Lounge is more than a dining
spot? it is an entertainment
destination? with a 25- foot w ine and
Champagne fridge, a fireplace, a DJ
spinning beats, and street views.
The Karma Lounge legacy is built on
creating an atmosphere beyond the
ordinary. From its launch, this lounge has
been at the forefront of Vancouver's
vibrant after-dark scene, from open mic
nights showcasing local talent to private
events that redefine nightlife trends.

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THE EXPERIEN CE
It is a cornerstone in shaping the evening landscape of
the city, hosting some of the most memorable parties
and introducing innovative ideas that have left a lasting
impact on the community. The team at Karma Lounge
makes it their mission to be a testament to the notion
that a night out is not just about the venue but the
experience.
The open mic nights and music festivals hosted at Karma
Lounge have become instrumental in providing musicians
and artists with the opportunity and platform to shine
and showcase their craft. Through these events, Karma
Lounge has contributed to the rise of local talent,
fostering community and collaboration.
DESIGN & DESIGN ERS
Gorgeously designed, every angle is Insta-friendly,
especially the neon 'Karma's a Bitch' nook! Karma
Lounge is unlike any other venue because it is such a
dynamic place to hang out that is so easy to access and
conveniently located next to the city's top luxury retail
brands.
Before or after your visit, stop at ultra-luxury men's wear
boutique Stefano Ricci, luxury cashmere purveyor
Brunello Cuccinelli, everyone's favourite Louis Vuitton,
and numerous luxury watch and accessory boutiques.
SATISFY YOUR CRAVIN GS
Whether you are looking for something shaken up,
stirred, or popped alongside your Impossible Karma
Burger, locally sourced fresh superfood salads, or
triple-cooked truffle fries, Karma Lounge has all the
fixings you need for a great time!
Whether you are there for a quick lunch, a lively brunch,
or an evening of entertainment, Karma Lounge offers an
immersive experience that transcends the ordinary. It is
where flavours, rhythms, and community spirit come
together to create memories that linger long after the
last beat drops.

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M A NSION NIGHTCLUB | Paradox Hotel Vancouver
MM ansion is a multi-level nightclub in the
Paradox Hotel encompassing more than
9,0 0 0 square feet and features soaring
ceilings, vibrant lighting, a
state-of-the-art sound system, a rooftop
patio, and a pool.
With operator After Dark Hospitality's
other locations (WestOak Restaurant,
Pierre' s Lounge) known as hotspots for
celebrities, including Drake, Justin
Bieber, Post M alone, M igos and more,
bringing Mansion Nightclub to the
Paradox Hotel was the perfect pairing.
As one of western Canada's leaders in
ultra-high-energy nightlife, Mansion set
out to be and has become the ultimate
entertainment space, providing its
beautiful young, affluent clientele with a
completely immersive experience.
Mansion's dynamic weekend nights, pool
parties, celebrity after-parties, live
entertainment, big-name performances,
and corporate and private functions will
bring you bumping shoulders with
celebrities, international guests, locals,
athletes, models and more.

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Mansion pushes the boundaries of
Vancouver nightlife with sophistication,
celebration & style. Known for its
Champagne Bottle Service, which
includes Jay Z's iconic ode to luxury with
Armand de Brignac' s ' Ace of Spades'
and lighting up the city after dark with
Dom Pérignon Luminous, Mansion
exemplifies a premium and luxurious
experience.
At Mansion, the who's who of Vancouver's
social scene mingle and network with the
city's top executives, tech financers,
lifestyle gurus, M aster M edallion Club
agents, and those just passing through as
they travel the world.
Mansion's well-heeled clientele expect
curated champagne and spirits
packages, dramatic service shows,
high-energy local DJs, and international
performances, all of which it delivers
effortlessly.

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M 3 2
M OTT 32 | Paradox Hotel Vancouver
The signature restaurant at the
Paradox Hotel is the world-renowned
M ott 32, one of the world's top
Chinese restaurants. Located on
the main floor with entry from
West Georgia and the Karma Lounge,
Mott 32 represents modern Hong
Kong and a new chapter of Chinese
dining.
This gorgeous restaurant gem in
downtown Vancouver embodies the
Chinese culture and philosophy that
has been shaped from generation to
generation. It embraces flavours and
ingredients from around China and
the world and delivers it as home
cooking should be, in a more rustic
and honest way.
A N AM E LIKE N O OTHER
Named after the famed convenience
store on 32 M ott Street in N ew York,
the restaurant captures the dynamism
of NYC's vibrant Chinatow n.
Designed collaboratively by
award-winning interior designer
Joyce Wang , and international F&B
leaders M aximal Concepts.
The space blends lofty New York
industrial style with Chinese imperial
elements seamlessly imbue the space
with sleekness and elegance,
punctuated by unexpected but
unpretentious details. It is visually
stunning, with every seat afforded
delightful views of key design elements
and the bustling open kitchen.
A VARIETY OF EXPERIEN CES
The journey, the story, the scenery, and
every detail transports visitors to the
old traditional Canton in a modern
context, making Mott 32 unique.
Guests seeking a comforting
private dining space can reserve
The Linda Lin Private Dining Room.
Named after one of Hong Kong's
earliest internationally celebrated
actresses, it features distinct
characteristics of classic
cinematography throughout and a
round family-style table that seats up
to 10 guests comfortably. Also
available are The White Lotus and
The Blue Jazz Room semi-private
dining rooms.

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BEHIN D THE DISHES
Highly respected within the Chinese
culinary scene, Chef Lee M an Sing
specializes in creating outstanding
traditional Chinese dishes with Western
cooking techniques and elegant
presentations. Chef Lee graduated with
distinction from the Chinese Culinary
Institute while attending the exclusive
M aster Chef level class despite being
one of the youngest.
Before earning his first Michelin-star for
M andarin Oriental, Chef Lee cooked for
celebrities, international heads of state
and government officials. He worked at
the Fortune Room at The Hong Kong
Jockey Club and Hoi Yat Heen at the
Harbor Grand Kow loon before becoming
the Head Chef for the Mandarin Oriental
Hong Kong, where he helped create an
outstanding Michelin-starred Cantonese
menu in 20 12 with traditional favourites
and seasonal specialties.
Mott 32 Culinary Director M alcolm Wood
and Chef Lee teamed up to create the
Mott 32 menu with their combined years
of experience. Malcolm spent his younger
years living in Taiw an before moving to
Hong Kong and has always been
passionate about the traditional recipes
of Chinese home cooking that have been
passed down through generations.
This proved a winning combination with
Chef Lee's talent for producing some of
Hong Kong's favourite dishes.
Chef Lee takes pride in understanding
each ingredient as he adapts a
contemporary approach when recreating
authentic Chinese cuisine by sourcing
fresh ingredients.
"I usually source fresh ingredients from
sustainable producers to maintain the
quality of the food from both local and
overseas suppliers," says Chef Lee. The
menu at Mott 32 perfectly illustrates his
masterful skills in creating authentic
Chinese dishes.
DELECTABLE DISHES ABOUN D
Mott 32's menu features a variety of
sophisticated yet authentic Chinese
dishes that draw heavily from Cantonese
and Szechuan influences. Farm-to-table
cuisine is at the heart of the restaurant's
menu. Mott 32 meticulously sources the
finest ingredients, allowing the authentic
flavours to shine.
While rooted in respect for tradition and
a commitment to sustainability, Mott 32's
plant-based offerings allow those who
embrace a plant-based diet to satiate
their cravings for traditional Chinese
umami flavours.
Mott 32's chefs have carefully integrated
plant-based alternative products made
by OmniFoods with fresh and locally
sourced ingredients.

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Menu highlights include Crispy Tofu
w ith Szechuan peppercorns and
Lion' s Head M eatballs prepared
with tofu, mushrooms, and water
chestnuts. And if you are not enticed
yet, Mott 32's Signature Smoked
" Cod" is an incredible dish
replicating the original on the menu
with a version made from soy
protein, pea protein, rice protein,
and shiitake mushroom powder.
These delicious plant-based dishes
will join the other popular meat-free
ones already served at the
restaurant, including the Stir Fried
Assorted Wild M ushrooms. This
extraordinary menu is available
during both lunch and dinner service.
TABLE SIDE SERVICE
At Mott 32, there is an underlying
belief that innovative cocktails and
meticulously sourced fine wines from
around the world enhance a dining
experience. Add to that the
availability of the table-side
Champagne Cocktail Cart, and a
whole new level of experiential
dining is reached!
The signature cocktails list is flush
with combinations designed to
complement the dishes and use
ingredients commonly found in the
wider Asia Pacific region and star
infusions with Ginseng roots, goji
berries, pomelo, air-dried tangerine
peel, shiso leaves, star anise,
cardamom, and much more.
The wine list is a selection of the
finest wines from around the globe,
with a philosophy to deliver top
value and the best representation of
each grape variety and wine region.
Additionally, the sommelier focuses
on Bordeaux and Burgundy,
offering a more comprehensive
selection and remarkable vintages
from the world's finest wine regions.
It would be impossible to stay at the
Paradox Hotel without experiencing
Mott 32's splendour at least once.
An evening spent within its incredible
decor, divine dishes, and
impeccable service (and do not
forget the Champagne Cart!) will
transport you away from the bustle
of downtown Vancouver and to
another place altogether.
M OTT 32
1161 West Georgia Street
Vancouver, BC

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SCENI C
ECLI PSE
LUXURY
CRUI SE

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SCENIC ECLIPSE | Lux ury Cruise Ship

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FAI RMONT
BANFF
SPRI NGS
HOTEL

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FA IRM ONT BA NFF SPRINGS | Banff, A B

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No matter is you are travelling solo, with
family, or a group, this historic castle in the
Rocky Mountains will accommodate all.
FAIRM ON T BAN FF SPRIN GS
40 5 Spray Avenue
Banff, Alberta

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RUNDLE BA R | Fairmont Banff Springs

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HEA D-LINE M OUNTA IN HOLIDA YS | Whistler, BC

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HEAD- LIN E M OUN TAIN HOLIDAYS
Whistler, BC

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RESORTS WORLD | Las Vegas, Nevada

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RESORTS WORLD LV
30 0 0 S Las Vegas Blvd
Las Vegas, N V

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CROSSROA DS K ITCHEN | Resorts World LV

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A WA NA SPA | Resorts World LV

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I NDI A
MAHARAJAHS'
EXPRESS

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M A HA RA JA HS' EX PRESS | 7 Provinces in India

M E
Luxury train travel continues to enjoy
a resurgence in popularity, with new
exciting expeditions across more
countries being announced each
season.
Far from intimidating, travel by train
offers the traveller a fresh angle to
view the passing world. From the air,
one experiences the topographical
view of the landscape. From the sea,
one experiences not only the dramatic
coastlines but also a day in port,
perhaps shopping or embarking upon a
foot tour.
The M aharajas' Express is one of the
most sought-after experiences.
Repeatedly cited as the leading luxury
train journey in the world, year after
year, this train rolls the rails from
October to April.
The award-winning Maharajas' Express
transports 88 guests per trip in 20
Deluxe Cabins, 18 Junior Suites, 5 Suites,
and a single carriage with a
Presidential Suite.
Amenities aboard the train include
climate control, en suite modern
washrooms, and all a hotel suite's
electronic and digital perks.
Each suite is elegantly decorated with
simple necessities, a writing table, a
wardrobe, and wifi.
Each car comes with a personal valet
who is professionally trained and
available around the clock to ensure
all questions are answered and guests'
whims are fulfilled.

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DIN IN G AT ITS FIN EST
The finest dining experiences are in the bronze
peacock-adorned M ayur M ahal, with its lush
emerald and gold décor, and the Rang M ahal,
with its embroidered ruby brocades.
The daily menu reflects the region, and if not
satisfied, guests could request a tête-à-tête with
complaisant Chef John Stone, who devises dishes
to suit all palates.
There is no need to worry about dietary
preferences. The kitchen practices inclusionary
dining and culinary prowess extended far beyond
the anticipated Indian cuisine.
Each day, fresh fruits and vegetables,
fragrant spices, and requested specialty items
are gleaned from local markets and prepared in
the tiny but highly efficient, bustling kitchen car.
While aboard, diners enjoyed multi-course meals
with bottomless beverages. Each day, the Indian
offerings are joined by dishes created to spotlight
an international cuisine, like Italian,
M editerranean, and Caribbean.
Sweet cravings were satisfied with simple
palate-cleansing desserts and others like tiramisu
and hot gulab jamun. Where vegan and
vegetarian versions of dishes were not offered,
Chef Stone creates bespoke haute cuisine meals
with gusto.

113
When off the train, sumptuous buffets
were prepared by catering teams and
palace kitchens, with full bars of local
w ines and top- shelf spirits to please all.
Guests on the journey arrived from all
over the world.
On the run of the Maharajas' Express
that we travelled, the guests included a
well-heeled eclectic group that included
three Saudi princesses, an Egyptian
hotelier, an Israeli orthopedic surgeon, a
young family from Vancouver, and the
sibling of a fashion icon Elie Tahari.

115
A WEEK OF ADVEN TURE
The Maharajas' Express is a structured
adventure trip that includes many of
India's famous destinations, arranged
during non-peak hours to provide a
kaleidoscope of stunning
archaeological, religious, and
historical sites and markets dedicated
to gemstone and marble.
Guided tours include an early morning
visit to the shimmering Taj M ahal,
exhaustive explorations of Jaipur' s
Amber Fort and the M ehrangarh Fort in
Jodhpur, a refreshingly languid boat ride
on Lake Pichola to Udaipur' s City
Palace, and a rocky excursion through
Balasinor' s Dinosaur Fossil Park led by
Indian royalty Princess Aaliya.

117
OUTSIDE OF THE USUAL
Once-in-a-lifetime experiences abound.
Putting aside the magnificently romantic Taj
Mahal and the Jai Mahal's painted elephant
'meet and greet' with sugarcane and greens,
it is doubtful that guests will ever again cradle
an extremely rare intact dinosaur egg in their
hands.
On a rough early morning open-air truck
safari through Jaipur's Ranthambore
N ational Park, guests encounter families of
Langur monkeys with infants, a sunbathing
marsh crocodile, family packs of w ild boar,
species of deer including spotted Chital, the
N ilgai antelope, the bearded Sambar, and a
gorgeously aloof Bengal tiger.
The free-roaming animals are not tagged,
and much of the adventure's excitement is the
wild ride the conservationist guides take their
guests on while communicating frenetically
through walkie-talkies. The final night
onboard is dedicated to fun and frivolity.
A CELEBRATION ON THE TRACKS
Upon arrival from visiting with the royal family
of Balasinor, the valets had laid out
traditional and Indian outfits for guests to
wear for dinner. Everyone enjoys a final night
on the Maharajas' Express, offered canapés,
desserts, and overflowing gold-rimmed
champagne flutes, all while learning the latest
Bollyw ood dance moves from kitchen staff
members. The journey concluded in M umbai.

119
Arranged luxury vehicle transportation
whisked guests away to their various
destinations.
We enjoyed spending our last few hours
in India shopping at the Stefano Ricci
boutique with M anual Bernaschek, owner
of Canada's only Stefano Ricci in
Vancouver, and who, without his assistance,
this incredible once-in-a-lifetime trip would
have never happened.
As one of the most luxurious trains in India,
the Maharajas' Express is designed to
satisfy the romance, curiosity, and intrigue
historically associated with train travel.
M AHARAJAS' EXPRESS
N ew Delhi, India

121

123
ETHOS VEGA N SUITES | Santorini, Greece

125

127
ETHOS RETREAT SAN TORIN I
Imerovigli, Santorini
Greece

129
RWANDA

131
K WITONDA LODGE | Conservation A dventure

133

135

137
SIN GITA KWITON DA LODGE
N orth & South Africa

139
VANCOUVER
I SLAND

141
VILLA EYRIE | Tuscan Villa on Vancouver Island

143

145

VILLA EYRIE RESORT
160 0 Ebadora Lane
M alahat, BC

147

149
M A GNOLIA HOTEL & SPA | Victoria, BC

151

153

155

M AGN OLIA HOTEL & SPA
623 Courtney Street
Victoria, BC

157

159

161

163

165

THE SPA M AGN OLIA
625 Courtney Street
Victoria, BC

167
GA TSBYS | Resorts World Las Vegas

Folio.YVR Lux ury Lifestyle M agazine
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folio.yvr
ISSUE #22
Travel Edition
DECEM BER 2023