Ogawa takes Miami on a journey through Michelin-starred Japanese omakase cuisine — a dining experience where precision and luxury meet in the heart of Florida. IL Menu, Travel Ogawa Miami's Journey Through Japanese Cuisine Gerri Melchionne World Red Eye 9 February 2026 8 min Heading 5 Go Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 5 Go Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 5 Go Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Michelin Star Omakase in Little River Some restaurants impress, and then some redefine a city’s dining landscape. As a Michelin-starred omakase Miami destination, Ogawa belongs firmly in the latter category. Discreetly positioned beside the train tracks in Miami’s evolving Little River neighborhood, this twelve-seat counter offers one of the most refined Japanese fine dining experiences in South Florida: intimate, intentional, and rooted in reverence. Conceptualized by renowned restaurateur and art dealer Álvaro Perez Miranda, Ogawa earned its Michelin star just months after opening. The distinction felt less like surprise and more like inevitability. Designed around kikubari, the Japanese philosophy of anticipatory care, the restaurant measures luxury not in spectacle, but in precision and presence. Álvaro Perez Miranda at Ogawa Best Michelin Star Omakase Miami Looking for the best Michelin-starred omakase Miami offers? Ogawa in Little River delivers a 12-seat Edomae counter led by Chef Masayuki Komatsu, featuring seasonal seafood flown from Tokyo’s Toyosu Market. With just two nightly seatings and reservations required, it is one of the most exclusive Japanese dining experiences in South Florida. Chef Komatsu The arrival itself sets the tone. Guests are first guided through a serene Japanese garden envisioned by Ikebana artist Akiko Iwata, where the city softens into stillness. Inside, the dining room — personally designed by Perez Miranda — evokes the warmth of a traditional Japanese minka house. Wood, burgundy silk, and gold-leaf walls create a cocoon of quiet elegance, adorned with Nihonga artworks by Ryota Unno and a hand-calligraphed kakejiku scroll by Keiko Ogawa. The kappo-style dining room inside Ogawa Inside a Kikubari Restaurant At the heart of this Michelin-starred omakase experience in Miami is master sushi chef Masayuki Komatsu. Born in Osaka and shaped by nearly two decades devoted to traditional sushi craft, Chef Komatsu approaches each service as a dialogue between seasonality, sourcing, and restraint. Ingredients arrive daily from Tokyo’s Toyosu Fish Market alongside prized products from Japan’s Ibaraki Prefecture, making Ogawa the first official Ibaraki restaurant in the United States. The Omakase Counter at Ogawa The kappo-style progression begins with seasonal small plates, then transitions into the sushi courses. Delicate hotate scallop, pristine banded grouper, Japanese sandfish, and richly marbled ohtoro are prepared moments before serving, ensuring temperature and texture remain uncompromised. Returning guests are never served the same dish twice, reinforcing the singularity of each evening. Tempura at Ogawa What distinguishes Ogawa is not extravagance, but discipline. Rice from Ibaraki, sweet potatoes, melons, and Hitachi Wagyu appear thoughtfully throughout the menu, reinforcing the restaurant’s agricultural ties. Every element serves a purpose; nothing exists merely to impress. Seasonal Japanese Fine Dining in Miami Complementing the cuisine is a beverage program curated by co-owner and sommelier Luis Martinez, whose pairings, from grower Champagnes to rare sake and small-batch Japanese whiskies, elevate without overpowering. The pacing remains deliberate, human, and deeply considered. In a city often defined by spectacle, Ogawa offers reflection. Before or after dinner, guests may linger in the garden with a highball in hand as the Brightline train glides past — a reminder that this quiet ritual exists between worlds. Reservations for This Michelin Star Omakase Miami Experience In Little River, a neighborhood still shaping its identity, Ogawa stands as a defining anchor: a Michelin-starred omakase Miami experience where craft is honored, time slows, and luxury is found not in excess, but in intention. Reservations for this Michelin-starred omakase Miami experience are available via Tock , with two nightly seatings at 6:00 PM and 9:00 PM. Frequently Asked Questions Categories Travel Il Menù Shopping Lifestyle Stories Travel Valentine’s Day Just Got a Lot More Gothic Go Travel, On the Peninsula Gstaad Palace: A Century of Alpine Power Go Shopping, On the Peninsula, Beauty, Lifestyle Frozen Elegance: Inside The I.C.E., St. Moritz Go Gallery Go Enio Ottaviani Winery Go Beyond the Eras: Sicily's Luxury Hotel Go Côte Cares: Sustainable Beauty for All Bodies Follow Us INSTAGRAM LINKEDIN What's Your Reaction? Join Our Newsletter Now Subscribe now to get notified about exclusive offers from La Peninsula every week! Email* SUBSCRIBE →

White Turf St. Moritz 2026 defines luxury winter travel in Switzerland with elite horse racing, fine dining on ice, and Swiss Alps glamour. Travel White Turf St. Moritz 2026: Luxury Winter Travel Meets Horse Racing in the Swiss Alps Gerri Melchionne Andrea Furger 15 February 2026 10 min Heading 5 Go Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 5 Go Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 5 Go Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. On the frozen surface of Lake St. Moritz, 47 international horses thunder across the snow in one of Europe’s most exclusive winter sporting events. There are winter destinations, and then there is St. Moritz. Each February, this legendary alpine resort transforms into a stage for one of the most extraordinary sporting spectacles in the world: White Turf St. Moritz 2026, where international horse racing unfolds on the frozen surface of Lake St. Moritz in the heart of the Swiss Alps. For travelers searching for luxury winter travel in Switzerland, exclusive European winter events, and unforgettable alpine experiences, White Turf delivers a rare combination of sport, sophistication, gastronomy, and global glamor. International Horse Racing on a Frozen Lake The 2026 season opens with 47 horses from four countries competing across six races in the disciplines of gallop, trot, and Skikjöring. A total of 104,000 Swiss francs in prize money reinforces the sporting prestige of this internationally recognized winter event. The 1,300-meter sprint, the highlight of the first race Sunday, awards 25,000 Swiss francs and draws elite thoroughbreds from across Europe. Returning contenders Rogue Spirit and Hungary’s Surprise of Easter face formidable rivals, including German snow specialist Scipio and promising Swiss newcomers Tyson and Beau Gars. Trotting races add further international intrigue, with Bavarian standout Fourteenth of July competing against a powerful field of Swiss and European challengers. Yet the most visually arresting discipline remains Skikjöring, a world-exclusive tradition unique to St. Moritz. In this breathtaking sport, a skier is pulled at high speed by a riderless thoroughbred across the snow-covered track. Two-time defending champion Valeria Schiergen returns in pursuit of a historic third consecutive title, facing fierce competition from internationally experienced contenders. For global audiences searching for unique winter travel experiences in Europe, this is not merely a race; it is Alpine theater at its most dramatic. A Lifestyle Destination Beyond Sport White Turf is more than a sporting event. It is a defining moment of the St. Moritz luxury vacation season. Opening Day welcomes families and visitors behind the scenes with guided tours, panel discussions with race leadership, and immersive programming that blends sport with community tradition. The celebrated Family Days continue throughout February, offering children the opportunity to experience mounted Skikjöring and interactive winter activities, all complimentary. This balance of exclusivity and accessibility defines the White Turf atmosphere: champagne in hand, tailored wool coats against alpine air, and panoramic mountain views reflecting off crystalline snow. For those planning a luxury ski holiday in the Swiss Alps, White Turf enhances the destination’s already iconic appeal, pairing world-class skiing, designer boutiques, five-star hotels, and Michelin-level dining with one of the world's most glamorous winter sporting events. Fine Dining on Ice: A Culinary Destination in Itself In 2026, White Turf expands its luxury footprint with the debut of “Atelier 6,” a fine-dining pop-up located directly on Lake St. Moritz. Led by top chef Niklas Oberhofer in collaboration with Zurich-based creative agency Marc WHO?, the concept introduces an elevated culinary experience set against the frozen racetrack. Seating up to eighty guests indoors and outdoors, with an exclusive Chef’s Table overlooking the course, Atelier 6 becomes the only restaurant positioned directly on the lake, redefining fine dining in St. Moritz and reinforcing the destination’s reputation for luxury experiential travel. Longtime partner GAMMACATERING continues its 35-year tradition as the official catering partner, welcoming over a thousand VIP guests each race weekend within an elegant tented enclave on the ice. Global Prestige and International Reach The global footprint of White Turf continues to expand. In 2026, a fully revamped livestream will broadcast all race days worldwide. The third race on Sunday (February 15) will air live on Swiss free-to-air television via Swiss Sport TV, while a partnership with Japanese platform Netkeiba extends viewership to Asia. Adding further prestige, Aston Martin joins as the official Car Partner for 2026, providing the support vehicle on the lake and sponsoring a trotting race during each race weekend, a seamless alignment of precision engineering and elite sport. Aston Martin at White Turf 2026. For international travelers researching the best winter destinations in Europe 2026, White Turf represents the intersection of tradition, innovation, and unmistakable Alpine luxury. The Ultimate Swiss Alps Winter Escape Grandstand tickets for the first race day are already sold out, with the third race on Sunday fully booked, a testament to the enduring magnetism of this singular event. Limited VIP access remains for select weekends, while standing and inner oval tickets are still available. White Turf St. Moritz is not simply about horse racing. It is about atmosphere, the Engadin light (Engadin, referring to a specific region in Switzerland), casting long shadows over the ice, the quiet drama of snow against hoofbeats, the refinement of European winter culture at its most polished. In a world saturated with spectacle, White Turf St. Moritz 2026 remains authentic, elegant, and singular, a defining experience for discerning travelers seeking luxury travel in Switzerland, iconic alpine events, and unforgettable winter moments in the Swiss Alps. There is winter, and then there is St. Moritz. Frequently Asked Questions Categories Travel Il Menù Shopping Lifestyle Stories Shopping Gstaad Palace: A Century of Alpine Power Go IL Menu, Travel Ogawa Miami's Journey Through Japanese Cuisine Go Travel, On the Peninsula Best Work Shoes for Men & Women: Comfortable, Sustainable Leather by Beckett Simonon Go Gallery Go Côte Cares: Sustainable Beauty for All Bodies Go Mare Blu Swimwear Go Enio Ottaviani Winery Follow Us INSTAGRAM LINKEDIN What's Your Reaction? Join Our Newsletter Now Subscribe now to get notified about exclusive offers from La Peninsula every week! Email* SUBSCRIBE →

Get in touch with La Peninsula for editorial features, brand collaborations, advertising opportunities, and press inquiries. We'd love to hear from you. CONTACT US LET'S TALK. WE'RE HERE FOR YOU. Full Name Phone Number Email Your Message SUBMIT → Send Me an Email lauriem648@gmail.com Let’s Connect Book Now on Calendly Our Office Location Florida, United States Send Us a Message Have a question, a story idea, or feedback for our team? Schedule a Meeting For more in-depth conversations, such as partnership proposals, advertising inquiries, or detailed story pitches, we invite you to book a call directly with us. Scheduling a time ensures we can give your ideas the dedicated attention they deserve. Simply select a time that works for you, and we look forward to speaking with you. BOOK NOW Spring / Summer Edit A curated moment from the new season — effortless silhouettes, refined textures, and timeless tones designed for warm days ahead. Discover pieces that move with you — light fabrics, fluid tailoring, and understated elegance inspired by coastal living. This collection brings together modern femininity with everyday comfort, creating looks that feel as natural as they are elevated. Each selection has been thoughtfully chosen to complement your personal style, whether you're dressing for a quiet morning, a weekend escape, or an evening out. Explore the Collection Join Our Newsletter Now Subscribe now to get notified about exclusive offers from La Peninsula every week! Email* SUBSCRIBE →

Discover Benjamin Babadi’s La Dolce Vita, a luxury handbag collection crafted in Tuscany with premium Italian leather and exquisite artisanal details. Shopping Luxury Leather: Benjamin Babadi’s La Dolce Vita | La Peninsula Laurie Melchionne Benjamin Babadi 15 September 2025 8 Min read Heading 5 Go Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 5 Go Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 5 Go Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Tuscany conjures many images. Florence. Siena. Pisa. The glory of the Renaissance still pulses there today, in architecture, art, and landscape. Tuscany’s craftsmen have utilized its natural gifts for centuries, from the paintings of Alessandro Botticelli and the sculptures of Michelangelo Buonarotti Simoni, to the politics of Lorenzo de’ Medici and the writings of Dante Alighieri. It is among these storied men, in this timeless place, that Benjamin Babadi carves his name. Launched in February 2024, Babadi’s namesake brand dropped its first collection, La Dolce Vita. Crafted by leather experts in Tuscany using premium Italian leather, Babadi’s handbags specialize in material that shines like a mirror and is buttery to the touch. “My approach was to have a design that is unique, timeless, and versatile,” said Babadi about his debut collection. “The bag geometry is large enough to fit a phone and other small belongings and is well suited for a night out. The bag is crafted to truly stand out with its unique shape, shiny leather, and polished accessories.” Available in a range of Tuscan silk leather—Silk Black, Passion Red, Light Blue, and Volcanic Orange—each bag features a hand-sculpted bamboo handle, a signature element of Tuscan design, along with a gold chain strap that doubles the piece as a shoulder bag or crossbody. Gold-plated hardware flashes on each front, crafted in the shape of the Benjamin Babadi logo, Bote-Jeghe, a Persian symbol of royalty that honors Babadi’s Persian heritage. Lined with smooth Clarino Suede and propped upright by four gold studs at the base, La Dolce Vita’s bags shine Tuscan excellence in every flash of light, occasion, or outfit. Some hardware even sparkles with Swarovski crystal, elevating the design down to every stitch, accessory, and shade. “I love working with metallic accessories because they offer pure shine, especially around the rounded surfaces,” said Babadi. “Each bag is all about creating unique and timeless designs, using premium quality materials, and unparalleled craftsmanship in production.” The Benjamin Babadi masterpiece does not materialize overnight, however. Babadi studied at Stanford University for Electrical Engineering, which he merged with his artistic endeavors to produce clean, geometric designs in fashion. “I believe that art and engineering are intertwined,” he said. “A good artist knows how to use engineering tools to be creative and craft beautiful artifacts.” Seven years ago, the Benjamin Babadi handbag started as a passion project that skyrocketed into a luxury lifestyle product, thanks to the attention it received from family, friends, and Instagram followers all clamoring for a Babadi original of their own. Babadi paired with Italian designer Lorella Ceccanti, vice president of Associazione Bagartus, who designs, sources, and manufactures original handbags and accessories for Made in Italy brands. Like the Tuscan leather craftsmen that came centuries before him, Babadi approaches his collection with a meticulous process that prioritizes hand-craftsmanship, Italian-sourced leather that undergoes six rounds of finish, and luxurious haute couture. “All designs simply start as an idea in my mind,” explained Babadi. “I sleep on them and conceptualize them in my mind, merging both aesthetics and functionality. The next step is to sketch each feature’s details, then turn that sketch into a 3D rendition to assemble accessories, draft the wood forms, and create the pattern.” From there, Babadi hops on a plane to Italy, where he works hands-on with his vendors to create a microfiber prototype. From an authentic family-owned pelletteria , Babadi’s prototype is honed to final perfection with Tuscan leather, hardware, and hand-crafted accessories. “My relationship with my accessory designer is special because he is a true craftsman, and the parts are created in a small shop that is truly artisanal,” added Babadi. La Dolce Vita captures the craftsmanship of the past while offering modern luxury’s chic edge. For all of the 18-ct gold, Swarovski crystal, and silky, shiny leather, La Dolce Vita honors traditionalism. The legacy of Tuscany’s leather-makers, both past and present, breathe with a Benjamin Babadi handbag. With each purchase, the customer becomes part of Florence, Siena, or Pisa’s storied past—one that is rooted in inimitable Italian excellence. Shop the La Dolce Vita collection online at benjaminbabadi.com and follow him on Instagram at @benjaminbabadi . Frequently Asked Questions Categories Travel Il Menù Shopping Lifestyle Stories Shopping Torre Zambra Wines: The History of an Italian Wine Legacy Go Travel All Aboard the Italian Polar Express Go Travel Aquazzura Winter Collection | Revisiting 1970s Italy in Luxury Footwear | La Peninsula Go Gallery Go Côte Cares: Sustainable Beauty for All Bodies Go Del Toro Shoes Go Villa San Michele Follow Us INSTAGRAM LINKEDIN What's Your Reaction? Join Our Newsletter Now Subscribe now to get notified about exclusive offers from La Peninsula every week! Email* SUBSCRIBE →

Discover Ghirelli — the Italian artisan behind the world's finest handmade rosaries and Catholic jewelry. Made in Italy, designed for devotion and beauty. Shopping Ghirelli Rosaries Review | Made in Italy Religious Jewelry & Catholic Gifts | La Peninsula Laurie Melchionne Ghirelli® 29 March 2026 5 min Heading 5 Go Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 5 Go Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 5 Go Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. As Holy Week begins, we are reminded that if anyone is known for capturing beauty in symbols, it’s Catholics. While the start of Holy Week sees shrouded statues and imagery in churches throughout the world, encouraging the faithful to focus on spirituality rather than visuals, Catholicism is synonymous with her art. Think La Pieta at St. Peter’s, The Creation of Adam in the Sistine Chapel, Gothic architecture at Paris’ Notre-Dame Cathedral. Among these devotees of Catholic art is Ghirelli, the family-run, made in Italy jewelry and rosary makers. But rosary beads are not symbols, as Alessandro and Cinzia Ghirelli ensure in every collection, every rosalet, necklace, sculpture, and crucifix. The husband-and-wife team’s story began in what seemed like an insurmountable tragedy. While engaged, Alessandro, Cinzia, and his father suffered a severe car accident that injured Cinzia and took his father’s life. Left to run his father’s vegetable distribution company, Alessandro and Cinzia moved forward in grief. Soon after, yet another tragedy struck, this time one that rocked all of Europe: the Chernobyl nuclear power plant exploded . Radioactive dust rained as far as Italy, thick enough to choke Alessandro’s crops, destroy the business, and abandon the newly married couple with nearly half a million dollars in debt and loss. Who could overcome these insurmountable odds? Seemingly no mortal being. Seeing no way out, Alessandro and Cinzia fell to their knees in prayer, clinging to the Blessed Virgin through her rosary in their hands. As he prayed, little did Alessandro know that he held his future in his two hands. Literally. What were beads clutched in desperation transformed Alessandro’s heart with an unavoidable purpose: he had to devote his life to the very Lady of the Rosary herself, starting by honoring her with not just rosary beads, but the most beautiful, unique, and inimitable rosary beads the world has ever seen…glorifying Our Lady with the beauty that befits her name. While the road to Ghirelli was paved with obstacles and hardships, like every cross Catholics are called to carry, Alessandro and Cinzia consecrated themselves to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. They had no answers, other than to give everything to the Blessed Virgin. Everything. Their lives, their futures, their business. And look at the results. Today, Ghirelli is synonymous with honoring God through beauty, as the Vatican and her basilicas have done for centuries. Hand-sketched, tailor-made rosaries. Collections designed for Mysteries of the Rosary , Holy Saints Rosaries , and Precious Stones Rosaries are just a smattering of design devotions to choose from. Materials range from gold, silver, and vintage, as well as rose gold, crystal, gemstone, and even Murano glass . Pavé gold with diamond studs or matte black Rosalet ® bracelets are a respectful way to wear a rosary on your wrist; these material-customizable, engraving-ready Rosalets provide an easy-to-transport rosary for when you travel. Materials range from sterling silver and gold-plated sterling silver to fully pavé gold with Zircon pavé. Rosalets ® by Ghirelli Collaborations include Hallow ® with Ghirelli , rosaries with their own built-in QR code to connect prayer to the wildly popular Hallow prayer app, the world’s number one Catholic prayer app . There is also the Ghirelli ® for the Vatican collection and an ongoing partnership with Jonathan Roumie , star of the global hit TV show, “The Chosen,” who plays Jesus and is a devout Catholic in real life. What does Ghirelli teach us? That when we truly surrender , drop to our knees and say Jesus, I surrender myself to you, take care of everything , we may not have answers, but we have hope. We have protection. And in the end, even when Christ sounds silent, we know resurrection is at hand. Here is to a fruitful Holy Week. The Ghirelli family today Frequently Asked Questions Categories Travel Il Menù Shopping Lifestyle Stories Travel Meet Your New Olive Oil Obsession Go Travel Naples Beach Club Four Seasons Florida Review | Gulf Coast Luxury Resort | La Peninsula Go IL Menu A Roman Pilgrim’s Guide to Saint Jude | La Peninsula Go Gallery Go Bouquet Italiano Go Villa San Michele Go Beyond the Eras: Sicily's Luxury Hotel Follow Us INSTAGRAM LINKEDIN What's Your Reaction? Join Our Newsletter Now Subscribe now to get notified about exclusive offers from La Peninsula every week! Email* SUBSCRIBE →

Discover Le Vian’s Good Karma jewelry collection, featuring Chocolate Diamonds, sapphires, opals and meaningful designs inspired by giving and goodwill. Shopping Tis the Season of Good Karma: Le Vian Jewelry | La Peninsula Laurie Melchionne Le Vian 1 November 2025 7 min read Heading 5 Go Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 5 Go Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 5 Go Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Le Vian, the fine diamond powerhouse with over 25 years as a household name, rings in the holiday season with the Good Karma collection. Exclusive to Kay Jewelers, Good Karma promotes the reason for the season. Philanthropy has been part of Le Vian’s long heritage, and Good Karma contributes to this legacy through its partnership with St. Jude’s Children's Hospital and Diamonds Do Good. This nonprofit develops schools and supports remote diamond-producing communities throughout the world. Le Vian also donates 10-20% of profit to a handful of charities, before taxes, redefining Good Karma as not only a diamond collection, but a lifestyle. Reminiscent of its prior cosmos-themed Celestian and Constellations Collection, Good Karma features rings with swirling silhouettes representing the endless flow of infinity. Cloud-like Neopolitan Opal, night-sky Deep Sea Blue Topaz, and feminine Peach Morganite paint the color palettes in a rainbow’s array of diamond options. “This is one of the most exciting and meaningful jewelry collections I have seen in my career at Kay Jewelers,” said Stephanie Lawler, Kay Jewelers vice president. “We’re thrilled to see the impact it will have.” It wouldn’t be a Le Vian collection without its iconic Chocolate Diamonds, mounted in Good Karm’s additional pieces such as the Chocolate Diamond necklace and bangle. With linear spirals and sleek, open faces, Good Karma incorporates multiple diamonds in each piece. This diamond diversity allows the wearer to flaunt a variety of colors and multi-faceted sparkle, embracing an accessory that is not limited to a single rock’s color. The Neopolitan Opal ring, for example, is flanked by both Chocolate and Nude Diamonds. The Ombré Ring showcases an endless offering of color, elegantly incorporating Peach Morganite, Strawberry Ombré Sapphires, and Vanilla Sapphire accent set in 14K Strawberry Gold. The other Ombré Ring has both Chocolate Ombré Diamonds and Vanilla Diamonds® set in 14K Honey Gold, offering shades of brown to compliment any outfit in winter’s neutral, earthy tones. Good Karma’s sleek lines and swirling shapes allow for mix-and-match moments, with pinks and peaches that blend seamlessly with its Chocolate Diamonds, Sapphires, and Topaz. Synonymous with Le Vian elegance, Good Karma’s positive message and timeless aesthetic make for the perfect present this holiday season. Give joy and goodwill to others, and the universe that inspired this collection will give back to you. Shop Good Karma and Le Vian Jewelers online at kay.com . Frequently Asked Questions Categories Travel Il Menù Shopping Lifestyle Stories Shopping Discover Montecatini Terme Thermal Baths in Tuscany Go Shopping Luxury Leather: Benjamin Babadi’s La Dolce Vita | La Peninsula Go Travel 77 Diamonds Opens New Milano Showroom | La Peninsula Go Gallery Go Bouquet Italiano Go Dive into La Piscina at Caruso, A Belmond Hotel Go Beyond the Eras: Sicily's Luxury Hotel Follow Us INSTAGRAM LINKEDIN What's Your Reaction? Join Our Newsletter Now Subscribe now to get notified about exclusive offers from La Peninsula every week! Email* SUBSCRIBE →

Inside Gstaad Palace — the Swiss Alps' most legendary grand hotel, where a century of alpine luxury, royal guests, and timeless elegance define every stay. Travel, On the Peninsula Gstaad Palace: A Century of Alpine Power Gerri Melchionne Gstaad Palace 4 February 2026 10 min Heading 5 Go Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 5 Go Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 5 Go Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Rising above the village of Gstaad from its privileged position in Oberbort, Switzerland, the Gstaad Palace is more than a playground for the high echelon; it is a living legacy. Since opening its doors in 1913, the five-star superior hotel has stood as a beacon of Alpine elegance, remaining in the Scherz family's hands for three generations. In a century of rapid change, it is one of Europe’s last great family-run luxury hotels, where heritage is not curated but lived. Its story begins even before its doors first opened. The arrival of the Montreux–Gstaad railway in December 1904 marked the dawn of tourism in the region, transforming a remote alpine village into an accessible destination. Just months later, local schoolteacher Robert Steffen recognised the potential of the Oberbort hillside and quietly began acquiring land, planting the seeds for what would become one of Europe’s most iconic grand hotels. By 1912, construction was underway on an ambitious project by architects Adrien van Dorsser and Charles-François Bonjour, at a then-whopping cost of 2.5 million Swiss francs. A historic grand opening on December 8, 1913, set the standard of global hospitality: 165 rooms, central heating (unheard of in 1913!), private bathrooms, and even its own telegrapher. The Penthouse room. Photo courtesy of Melanie Uhkötter. Copyright Gstaad Palace. The seasonal Palace welcomes guests in winter and summer, offering uninterrupted views across the Bernese Oberland and Valais Alps. Its 90 rooms and suites reflect a refined balance of contemporary glamor and Alpine comfort, renovated regularly to ensure modernity while preserving the hotel’s unmistakable character. Accommodations range from elegant double rooms and junior suites to Alpine, Corner, and Deluxe Suites, two Tower Suites with private salons, and a spectacular Penthouse Suite crowning the top floor. For those seeking a more intense escape, the Palace’s historic Walig Hut offers a singular experience. Dating back to 1783 and located at 1,700 metres above sea level, the alpine refuge can be reserved in summer for private lunches, intimate dinners, or overnight stays for up to four guests, a rare immersion into the peace, authenticity, and understated luxury of the Saanenland. Summertime views at the Gstaad Palace. Photo courtesy of Melanie Uhkötter. Copyright Gstaad Palace. Enduring the Wartime World The Palace’s early success was tested by the turbulence of the 20th century. Two world wars, economic crises, and shifting travel habits threatened Gstaad Palace’s future. During World War II, a fortified vault and emergency shelter were constructed beneath the Palace terrace for Switzerland’s banking sector, a space that today houses the warmly atmospheric La Fromagerie restaurant. Its armoured doors and 1.5-metre-thick concrete walls remain a tangible reminder of the history that breathes through the Palace’s walls. Post-war, the Palace re-emerged as a cultural and social center. International congresses were held within its walls, including the 1947 Congress of the European Parliamentary Union, a precursor to today’s European Council . By the 1950s and 1960s, Gstaad Palace had become synonymous with glamor. Gala dinners attracted entertainment legends like Marlene Dietrich, Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald, Maurice Chevalier, Dionne Warwick, and Petula Clark, cementing its reputation as an alpine stage for the world’s cultural elite. Michael Jackson once dreamed not simply of staying at the Palace, but of owning it, captivated after seeing the hotel featured on the cover of a book dedicated to the world’s most beautiful palaces. The dream never materialized, but the story endures, part of the Palace’s living mythology. To the Screens That cinematic allure would translate to film and television. From 1991 through 2024, the Gstaad Palace has served as a backdrop for international films and TV shows, drawn by its instantly recognizable façade, storied interiors, and rare blend of discretion and drama. Major productions, such as T he Return of the Pink Panther , starring Peter Sellers, premiered in Gstaad in 1975. Globally celebrated actors have used the hotel as both a setting and a character, reinforcing its status as a symbol of old-world glamor in modern storytelling. The Art of Leisure, Alpine-Style Well-being unfolds across the 1,800-square-metre Palace Spa, opened in 2007 and designed in an exclusive Alpine style that mirrors the hotel’s timeless aesthetic. Open daily, the spa features nine treatment rooms, private hammams, separate sauna areas for men and women, shared relaxation spaces, a private spa suite, an indoor pool heated to 29°C, and a Jacuzzi maintained at 36.5°C. The indoor pool. Photo courtesy of Stefano Scata . Copyright Gstaad Palace. Signature treatments include a traditional Hammam Experience, a two-hour ritual spanning six rooms, and the Jardin des Monts Energizing Massage, which incorporates a handcrafted beechwood massage stick and alpine herbs sourced from the Pays-d’Enhaut region. In summer, life gravitates outdoors to the Palace’s legendary PISCINE. Designed in 1928 by ETH architect Beda Hefti, the Olympic-sized outdoor pool evokes the glamor of the Côte d’Azur with an Alpine sensibility. Heated to 74°F and open to both hotel guests and visitors, it transforms on weekends into a lively beach-club atmosphere curated by resident DJ Jim LeBlanc, the creative force behind the Palace’s iconic nightclub. The iconic PISCINE. Photo courtesy of Melanie Uhkötter. Copyright Gstaad Palace. Sports and activities span all seasons and include a gym, yoga and Pilates studios, personal training, squash, indoor swimming, and four outdoor sand tennis courts in summer, famed for their annual training camps led by Grand Slam champion Roy Emerson. A Culinary Destination Dining has long been central to life at the Gstaad Palace. Under Culinary Director Franz W. Faeh, Le Grill Rôtisserie has earned 16 GaultMillau points and international acclaim, while the hotel’s five restaurants span refined international cuisine, Gildo’s, the Palace’s beloved Italian restaurant, and convivial Alpine tradition at La Fromagerie. Le Grand Restaurant and La Grande Terrasse hold 15 GaultMillau points and serve refined international fare. Photo courtesy of Melanie Uhkötter. Copyright Gstaad Palace Excellence awards and culinary distinctions have followed consistently, reinforcing the Palace’s standing as a gastronomic destination in its own right. At Gstaad, you will have your choice of Le Grand & La Terrasse: the grand dining room and terrace for haute cuisine with panoramic mountain views, offering an extensive menu with starters such as lobster bisque, Mediterranean-style swordfish carpaccio, or Scampi Spaghetti served tableside, all before exquisite main-course choices. Le Grill offers an array of gourmet dishes in a sophisticated atmosphere. La Fromagerie, in the former WWII gold bunker, is famous for its traditional Swiss fondue and raclette, with fondue choices such as champagne and black truffle. Appetizers such as beef carpaccio with rocket salad, tomato, parmesan, and black truffle are served as light fare bites. Entrées include the famous veal with porcini mushrooms from the region, bathed in a cream sauce, served with Roesti (a traditional Swiss potato dish). Gildo’s Ristorante is an Italian restaurant named after the beloved former Maître D, Gildo Bocchini, who was famous for welcoming and cooking for guests for 47 years. Some favorite dishes include an antipasti of seafood and shellfish salad with olive oil, lemon, and toasted country bread. Fresh tagliatelle with rabbit ragu is a must-try. And then you can dine at the Walig Hut, the aforementioned rustic Alpine hut, for an authentic mountain dining experience. Le Grand Restaurant. Photo courtesy of Melanie Uhkötter. Copyright Gstaad Palace. The Palace's social rhythm continues in its bars. The Lobby Bar, affectionately known as “Gstaad’s living room,” is a gathering place from afternoon through late evening, while Le Bar du Grill pairs live music with an intimate atmosphere: seasonal snack bars and the poolside bar at the iconic PISCINE round out the experience. As evening falls, GreenGo becomes the heartbeat of the Palace. Since opening in 1971, the nightclub has been synonymous with Gstaad nightlife, its original interior design by Teo Jakob preserved to this day. With resident DJ Jim LeBlanc at the helm, GreenGo remains a magnet for an international, illustrious clientele. An Enduring Icon The Gstaad Palace has weathered wars, hosted statesmen and stars, inspired filmmakers, launched festivals, and shaped generations of Alpine hospitality. Today, under the leadership of General Manager Andrea Scherz, the Gstaad Palace continues to evolve with quiet confidence. A member of The Leading Hotels of the World, Swiss Deluxe Hotels, and Virtuoso, and consistently ranked among Europe’s finest hotels, its Excellence Awards, in global luxury circles, are not the result of reinvention, but of continuity. In Gstaad, luxury is felt. It is inherited, refined, and quietly passed on, from generation to generation, season to season, story to story. From its hilltop vantage point, the Palace continues to watch over Gstaad, just as it has for more than a century, timeless, composed, and unmistakably itself. Frequently Asked Questions Categories Travel Il Menù Shopping Lifestyle Stories Travel Amangati Unveils Spring 2027 Voyage Course Go Shopping, Lifestyle De Gournay: The Atelier of Dreamscape Interiors Go Travel Frozen Elegance: Inside The I.C.E., St. Moritz Go Gallery Go Beyond the Eras: Sicily's Luxury Hotel Go Villa San Michele Go The Return of Palm House, A Luxury Hotel Follow Us INSTAGRAM LINKEDIN What's Your Reaction? Join Our Newsletter Now Subscribe now to get notified about exclusive offers from La Peninsula every week! Email* SUBSCRIBE →

INDY offers the aesthetic of luxury vintage sunglasses at a fraction of the designer price. Our honest review of the brand redefining affordable Italian-inspired eyewear. Shopping INDY Sunglasses Review | Affordable Luxury Designer Alternative | La Peninsula Gerri Melchionne Andee Maher 21 March 2026 5 min Heading 5 Go Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 5 Go Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 5 Go Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. In the world of luxury sunglasses, price tags often climb into the hundreds, or even thousands, of dollars. Yet many of these designer frames are produced using the same materials and manufacturing processes found in far more accessible eyewear. This realization sparked the creation of INDY Sunglasses, the New York eyewear brand founded by designer Indie McFarlane. After noticing the steep markup commonly attached to designer eyewear, McFarlane set out to create premium sunglasses using the same high-quality materials and craftsmanship, without the inflated designer price tag. Today, INDY Sunglasses represents a new generation of affordable luxury eyewear, where thoughtful design and timeless style take precedence over traditional fashion markups. Each frame begins with McFarlane’s sketches, created in her New York City apartment, where the brand’s signature aesthetic was first developed: confident, polished, and effortlessly chic. Vintage Sunglasses with Modern Style One of the defining characteristics of INDY Sunglasses is its balance of vintage-inspired silhouettes and modern design elements. Classic eyewear shapes, often reminiscent of old Hollywood glamour, are reimagined through contemporary lens colors, refined proportions, and subtle design details. This approach allows INDY frames to feel timeless rather than trend-driven, making them ideal everyday sunglasses that can elevate even the simplest outfit. SoHo Caramel frames. Whether paired with a tailored blazer, summer linen, or relaxed denim, the frames carry the quiet sophistication associated with luxury designer sunglasses, but with an ease that makes them wearable from morning coffee to evening cocktails. Polarized Sunglasses Designed for Everyday Luxury While INDY Sunglasses places strong emphasis on aesthetics, the brand is equally committed to performance and comfort. Many frames feature polarized lenses, offering improved clarity and reduced glare—an essential feature for modern sunglasses. Combined with carefully selected materials and thoughtful construction, these details ensure that the sunglasses are not only stylish but also durable enough for daily wear. The result is eyewear that moves seamlessly from city streets to travel destinations, making INDY frames an ideal choice for those seeking stylish polarized sunglasses that blend fashion with functionality. Flattering Sunglasses Frames for Every Style Another defining feature of INDY Sunglasses is the brand’s focus on universally flattering shapes. Each design is carefully refined to complement a variety of face shapes while maintaining a distinct personality. Gisele sunglasses in Amber. Subtle design elements, such as balanced proportions, elegant lens tints, and understated hardware, give each pair of sunglasses its own identity. The result is a collection that feels both versatile and distinctive, allowing wearers to express personal style while enjoying the effortless confidence that comes with well-designed eyewear. A New Generation of Luxury Sunglasses INDY Sunglasses reflects a broader shift happening in fashion: the rise of luxury-quality products created outside the traditional designer system. Instead of paying for branding alone, customers are increasingly seeking exceptional materials, thoughtful design, and authentic craftsmanship. By designing each frame herself and maintaining a focused, independent approach, Indie McFarlane has created a sunglasses brand that embodies modern luxury—refined, accessible, and effortlessly stylish. For those searching for luxury sunglasses without the designer markup, INDY offers a refreshing alternative. Why INDY Sunglasses Are Trending in Luxury Eyewear Luxury fashion consumers are increasingly drawn to brands that deliver premium quality without traditional retail markups, and INDY Sunglasses fits perfectly within this growing movement. With its vintage-inspired aesthetic, polarized lenses, and New York design heritage, the brand has quickly become a favorite among those looking for chic everyday sunglasses that feel elevated yet approachable. The result is eyewear that captures the essence of modern luxury: confident, timeless, and quietly distinctive. Frequently Asked Questions Categories Travel Il Menù Shopping Lifestyle Stories IL Menu Naples Beach Club Four Seasons Florida Review | Gulf Coast Luxury Resort | La Peninsula Go Travel How to Step into Italian Artistry at Miami's ICA Go Travel Meet Your New Olive Oil Obsession Go Gallery Go Dubai-based M. Kais Bridal Showcases Spring/Summer 2026 Collection at Milan Fashion Week 2025 Go Juan de Dios Go Mare Blu Swimwear Follow Us INSTAGRAM LINKEDIN What's Your Reaction? Join Our Newsletter Now Subscribe now to get notified about exclusive offers from La Peninsula every week! Email* SUBSCRIBE →

Discover ZAGARA Home, an Italian-inspired home goods brand bringing Mediterranean elegance, fine linens, fragrances, and timeless craftsmanship into modern spaces. Shopping The Mediterranean Retreat: ZAGARA Home | La Peninsula Laurie Melchionne ZAGARA Home 1 November 2024 8 Min read Heading 5 Go Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 5 Go Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 5 Go Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Meet Catherina LaMarca, founder and CEO of ZAGARA Home, the Italian-made, Italian-themed home goods lifestyle line. With everything from room fragrances to table linens to bedding, ZAGARA Home cultivates any interior space into a haven of Mediterranean elegance. LaMarca took La Peninsula behind ZAGARA’s curtain in this exclusive interview. How did you launch ZAGARA Home? Where does the name “Zagara” come from? I founded Zagara Home out of my deep love for Italian elegance and design, drawing inspiration from my Italian heritage and family traditions. The name “Zagara” comes from the Sicilian word for orange blossom, a flower with a rich, intoxicating fragrance that symbolizes beauty, purity, and the warmth of the Mediterranean. It’s a nod to my roots and the essence I aim to capture in every product I create. ZAGARA Home began with a vision to share the beauty of Italian craftsmanship through fine linens, fragrances, and home accessories, infusing homes with a sense of European luxury and timeless elegance. ZAGARA Home is an extension of my passion for interior design and my deep connection to my Italian heritage. My creations are inspired by my appreciation for fine textiles and heirloom linens, much like the ones my mother and nonna hand-embroidered. The memory of pure white Italian linen towels, delicately embroidered, and the sweet scent of Sicilian citrus inspired me to create ZAGARA Home’s Signature Collection. I aim to introduce old-world charm to a new generation and revive cherished memories of the past. Each product in the ZAGARA Home collection reflects my commitment to quality and craftsmanship, with my love for design serving as the foundation for ZAGARA Home’s distinctive style. What draws you to the home goods industry? For me, home has always been where life’s most beautiful moments are shared. I’ve always been inspired by the details that make a space feel personal, warm, and inviting. I wanted to offer products that elevate everyday living, combining practicality with luxury and tradition with modern design. The home goods industry allows me to connect with people on a personal level, helping them create spaces that reflect their style and tell their stories. What is the Designer Program and how does it benefit interior designers drawn to Italian craftsmanship? Our Designer Program is tailored specifically for interior designers who appreciate the beauty and sophistication of Italian craftsmanship. It offers exclusive access to our collections, personalized support, and trade pricing. Designers working with ZAGARA Home benefit from our commitment to quality, attention to detail, and ability to create custom pieces that truly reflect their clients’ visions. It’s an opportunity for designers to integrate the elegance of Italian-made goods into their projects with ease and confidence. What is the Tailor Made Program and what sets it apart from typical B2B interior design products partnerships? The Tailor Made Program is designed for those who desire exclusive, custom-made home goods that go beyond what’s readily available. Unlike typical B2B partnerships that offer standard collections, we work closely with designers and clients to create bespoke items, paying attention to every detail—from fabric selection to final stitching. The program is highly collaborative, allowing us to translate personal visions into tangible pieces of art for the home. What sets it apart is the level of craftsmanship and personalization we offer, ensuring that every product is truly one-of-a-kind and reflective of our Italian heritage. How many of your designs are custom-made to order? Is this offering exclusive to the Tailor Made Program? While many of our products are ready to ship, a significant portion of our collection can be customized. This flexibility is most prominently featured in our Tailor Made Program, where designers and clients can work with us to create bespoke pieces that align with specific needs, dimensions, and finishes. It’s a more personal approach, and we enjoy collaborating with those who want something truly unique and one-of-a-kind. How do you approach collection/design ideas? Every collection starts with a story or a feeling I want to evoke. Being born in Italy and traveling throughout Italy, Sicily, and Europe, I’m constantly inspired by the beauty and richness of these places—the colors, textures, and craftsmanship. Sicily, in particular, is a constant source of inspiration with its attention to detail and timeless elegance. Once I have a vision, I work closely with artisans and manufacturers to bring it to life, always focusing on quality materials and designs that endure. I want each piece to tell its own story while seamlessly complementing a wide range of personal styles. Where do you manufacture your linen collections? Our linen collections are primarily manufactured in Italy, where we collaborate with skilled artisans who uphold the highest standards of craftsmanship. We take pride in using the finest Italian textiles, ensuring that every piece reflects the quality and elegance that Italian craftsmanship is known for. Where/how do you source materials? Any favorite materials or styles you like to work with? We are very selective about sourcing our materials, choosing only the finest fabrics, such as Belgian linen and Egyptian cotton. I particularly love working with natural fibers because they’re not only beautiful but also durable and sustainable. Linen, in particular, has a luxurious yet understated texture that perfectly lends itself to both classic and contemporary designs. We also take great care in sourcing ingredients for our fragrances, ensuring that every product is both high-quality and eco-conscious. What elements define ZAGARA Home as Italian/European? How does ZAGARA Home transform home spaces into Euro elegance? Our goal is to transport our customers to the Mediterranean with pieces that evoke the charm and sophistication of Italy, transforming homes into elegant retreats. The essence of Zagara Home is rooted in Italian craftsmanship and a European appreciation for beauty, quality, and detail. Each product is designed with timeless elegance in mind, balancing classic styles with modern sensibilities. From our fine linens and detailed embroidery to our carefully crafted fragrances, everything we offer exudes a refined yet inviting sense of luxury. How often are new products and categories updated? We introduce new collections seasonally, ensuring that we always have something fresh and exciting to offer our customers. Whether it’s a new fragrance for the home or an expanded line of linens, we’re constantly evolving while staying true to our brand’s heritage. Who shops ZAGARA Home? What are the style preferences and lifestyles that ZAGARA Home speaks to the most? ZAGARA Home appeals to those who appreciate quality, elegance, and timeless design. Our customers are individuals and families who value craftsmanship and enjoy creating beautiful, welcoming spaces. They are drawn to the Italian aesthetic and often have a love for travel, culture, and the finer things in life. Whether they’re decorating a vacation home or simply adding small luxuries to their everyday lives, our customers value style and substance in equal measure. Does ZAGARA Home have anything planned for the holidays/near future? Yes, we have some exciting plans for the holidays that will make wonderful gifts. We’re also looking forward to sharing a few surprises that we think our customers will love. Stay tuned! Where can we shop ZAGARA Home? You can shop our full collection online at www.zagarahome.com . We also work with select retailers and interior designers, and we’re proud to offer our Tailor Made Program for those looking for bespoke creations. Frequently Asked Questions Categories Travel Il Menù Shopping Lifestyle Stories Travel Côte Cares Sustainable Beauty Review | La Peninsula Go On the Peninsula 5 Italian Home Decor Ideas from Lake Como Villas | La Peninsula Go Beauty A Day in the Life of Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco Go Gallery Go Villa San Michele Go Bouquet Italiano Go Juan de Dios Follow Us INSTAGRAM LINKEDIN What's Your Reaction? Join Our Newsletter Now Subscribe now to get notified about exclusive offers from La Peninsula every week! Email* SUBSCRIBE →

Discover the hidden heritage of Florence, from Renaissance traditions and artisanal craftsmanship to Officina de’ Tornabuoni’s natural Italian skincare Beauty The Heritage of Hidden Florence | Italian Craft & Skincare Laurie Melchionne Officina de' Tornabuoni 3 March 2025 8 Min read Heading 5 Go Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 5 Go Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 5 Go Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. No matter where you look in Florence, the Renaissance still lives. It breathes in the arches of Piazza Signoria. It hums in the marketplace bustle of Ponte Vecchio. It stands in the shadows of Il Duomo’s heights and Santa Croce’s steeples. It whispers in the luxury boutiques and artisanal shops of Via de’ Tornabuoni. If the name Tornabuoni sounds familiar, you are likely a true Italophile. Lucrezia de’ Medici was the mother of Lorenzo Il Magnifico , Florence’s greatest patrician and patron of the Renaissance. But before Lucrezia became a Medici through her marriage to Piero the Gouty, she was a Tornabuoni, another powerful family at the top of 15th century Florentine politics. To this day, Medici fingerprints paint the city. In centro storico , one can’t take more than a few steps without seeing the six balls of the Medici crest on some door or building. Streets named after Lorenzo Il Magnifico’s closest compatriots are still found on maps. To name a few, there is Via degli Strozzi (after the Strozzi family), Piazza Pitti (Luca Pitti, banker friend of Cosimo de’ Medici, Lorenzo's grandfather), and—you guessed it—Via de’ Tornabuoni (Lucrezia’s maiden name). The street, christened after the Renaissance’s infamous Tornabuoni family, neighbors centro storico in Florence’s fashion district. Loro Piana, Fendi, and Versace glitter through storefront windows. These luxury titans nestle alongside tighter-knit leather workshops and Palazzo Spini-Ferroni, the site of Musée Salvatore Ferragamo. On Via de’ Tornabuoni, artisanal heritage runs deeper than fashion. It hosts the Larderel Palace, just a few steps from Chiesa dei Santi Michele and Gaetano. Within the palace is a family-run skin and wellness artisan that has been there since 1843. Meet Officina de’ Tornabuoni (ODT). A Balm of Florentine Skin Care While Florence has always been synonymous with art and leather making , another traditional specialty is its apothecaries. This is how Officina de’ Tornabuoni started in the 19th century, opening its doors as a palazzo pharmacy (once a nobleman’s residence). Here, the family-run herbalists drew on Florence’s rich expertise in botanical remedies, using Tuscany’s natural resources for organic skin care. The results? Decades of formulas that heal everything from physical maladies to sensitive skin and aging. This dedication to hand-made, natural skin care earned ODT prestigious recognition from the City of Florence. Impresa Fiorentina di Eccellenza (Florentine Enterprise of Excellence) is an esteemed label in the Tuscan capital. It is awarded to artisans and businesses who demonstrate dedication to quality products, services, and client relationships. ODT is also recognized by Fondazione Cologni dei Mestieri d’Arte and the Osservatorio dei Mestieri d’Arte (OMA). Both groups celebrate and preserve the rich heritage of true Italian craftsmanship. All Natural Skincare for Face, Hair, and Wrinkles Today, ODT continues its all-natural approach to beauty , health, and wellness. Clean beauty, sustainability, and customer-first customization blend each formula. All products are crafted at an on-site lab. Here, ODT partners exclusively with trusted suppliers to source raw materials and oversee every step of production. Once ingredients are sourced, they are carefully cultivated into ready-to-use blends. Traditional methods are embraced, such as steam distillation, cold pressing, and maceration. Afterward, each product is bottled by hand. “Our formulas are crafted with meticulous care, blending historical knowledge with modern scientific innovation to create products that promote holistic well-being,” said Nicolò Magherini, owner and director of ODT. Organic beauty is the foundation for effective skin care at ODT. Non-toxic mixtures define ODT’s supplements, perfumes, and home fragrances. Facial, body, and bath care products brim the skin care category. Natural resources target common issues such as cellulite, sore or restless legs, and dry skin on hands and feet. Eye cream, face serum, deodorant, hair care, and lip balm supercharge ODT's wellness routines. At the perfumery, the traditional Florentine apothecary thrives. Unlike fast fragrance brands, water and oil bases replace alcohol and chemical solvents. With an aversion to harmful substances that both damage skin and pollute the environment, ODT reflects a commitment to clean beauty. Eco-friendly packaging completes the picture of sustainability, embracing a brand-wide philosophy of wellness that, Magherini explained, “are as kind to the environment as they are to the people who use them.” Magherini added, “Unlike conventional perfumes designed for overpowering projection and long-lasting intensity, our creations prioritize a discreet, intimate experience.” All fragrances harmonize the wearer’s natural aroma with subtle elevated ingredients. From woodsy perfumes like the fan-favorite Liberia, or the verdant, water-based Intenso Toscano, each fragrance fosters an aura of understated elegance dedicated to wellness. “All artisans’ work is an intersection of skill and the unique, unbounded expression of creativity [...] This is what transforms creation into art,” said Magherini. Restorative Products for Herbal Body Healing A ritual of wellness forms each product, the Florentine way. Crema La Magnifica , the revitalizing firming cream, restores firmness to the skin and heals fine lines, wrinkles, and the effects of sun exposure. Hydrating oils are extracted from vitamin-rich super ingredients such as avocado, sunflower seed, coconut, rosa mosqueta, and calendula, a Mediterranean bloom from the daisy family. Suitable for all skin types, La Magnifica is ideal for the face, neck, and décolletage. It pairs seamlessly with the Calma Polish , a botanical body scrub dubbed “the Rolls Royce of buffing grains” by the “UK Telegraph.” With organic Demerara sugar crystals, this exfoliant preps the skin for post-shower moisturization. Key ingredients include hydrating exfoliants through nutrient-rich oat milk, jojoba oil, lemongrass essential oil, and laurel essential oil. Additional indulgent oils come from avocado, apricot, geranium, patchouli, blackcurrant, bisabolol, and borage. This rich formula targets sebum clogs in pores and scrubs away dead skin cells for a healed, shiny-new surface. ODT is dedicated to authenticity, which stems from its roots in Florence’s centuries-old artisan history. Small-batch and hand-made, each product reflects ODT’s identity of tradition-meets innovation, providing on-trend, healing skin care for the modern consumer who seeks old-world exclusivity. Shop Florence's all-natural, herbal remedies at odtskincare.com . Frequently Asked Questions Categories Travel Il Menù Shopping Lifestyle Stories Travel Canfora Capri Sandals: Timeless Craftsmanship on Italy’s Most Iconic Island Go Travel Alto Adige Wine Guide | Italy's Alpine Jewel of Northern Wines | La Peninsula Go Shopping Alys Beach, Florida: A Coastal Sanctuary of Timeless Elegance Go Gallery Go Dive into La Piscina at Caruso, A Belmond Hotel Go New Aging: Italian Skincare Go Bouquet Italiano Follow Us INSTAGRAM LINKEDIN What's Your Reaction? Join Our Newsletter Now Subscribe now to get notified about exclusive offers from La Peninsula every week! Email* SUBSCRIBE →

Discover Artemisia Gentileschi’s remarkable life, Baroque masterpieces, resilience, and legacy as one of Italy’s most influential female artists. Travel Meet Artemisia Gentileschi: The Spirit of Caesar in the Soul of a Woman Gerri Melchionne Wikamedia Commons (all images) 15 September 2025 7 min read Heading 5 Go Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 5 Go Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 5 Go Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. “You will find the spirit of Caesar in the soul of a woman.” - Artemisia Gentileschi Few names in Italian art carry the same resonance as Artemisia Gentileschi. Born in Rome in 1593, she lived in an era when women were rarely given space in the public realm of creativity, and certainly not in the exalted circles of fine art. Yet Artemisia was never ordinary. From the earliest days of her childhood, she breathed the pigments of her father Orazio’s workshop, where the scent of linseed oil mingled with the dust of marble and the scratch of charcoal sketches. It was here, in the warmth and discipline of her father’s studio, that a prodigy was nurtured. While most young women of her age were confined to lessons in sewing, music, or prayer, Artemisia’s hands were guided by brushes and palettes. Orazio Gentileschi, himself an accomplished painter of the Baroque school, saw in his daughter not a curiosity but a gift, and one worth cultivating. By the age of seventeen, Artemisia was producing works of astonishing maturity, her brushstrokes carrying the authority and depth of a seasoned master. However, her story, unlike that of many male artists whose genius was greeted with accolades, was not defined by privilege. It was forged in trial, literally and figuratively, and shaped by resilience that would become as iconic as her art itself. “You will find the spirit of Caesar in the soul of a woman,” Artemisia would one day write, a defiant creed to a world that doubted her. A Trial of Truth At seventeen, Artemisia suffered a brutal assault at the hands of Agostino Tassi, a painter entrusted by her father to further her training. In Baroque Rome, where the value of a woman’s life was measured less by her talent than by her chastity, the attack was more than personal violence; it was a social catastrophe. For many women, silence was the expected recourse, but Artemisia’s nature was never silence. She and her father pressed charges, a radical act in itself. The courtroom that followed was not a sanctuary of justice but an arena of humiliation. The victim, not the perpetrator, was placed on trial. Artemisia’s character, her morality, and even her body were scrutinized with ruthless suspicion. The court subjected her to the “sibille,” a torture that crushed her fingers, the very tools of her craft, as she was interrogated. For an artist, it was a punishment as symbolic as it was cruel. And yet, under this unimaginable pressure, Artemisia’s voice rang out with unshakable clarity: “È vero, è vero, è vero” —“It is true, it is true, it is true.” Tassi was convicted and sentenced to exile. Yet, in the way of so many powerful men of his age, his punishment was never fully enforced. Artemisia, however, carried the more profound transformation. She refused to be defined by what had been taken from her. She reclaimed her identity through paint, turning canvas into confession, into testimony, and ultimately into triumph. Painting Power From the ashes of her ordeal, Artemisia produced the works that would secure her place among the immortals of Baroque art. Her most celebrated canvas, Judith Slaying Holofernes , remains as startling today as it was nearly four centuries ago. Where her male contemporaries depicted Judith as an ethereal heroine, delicately poised above the beheaded Assyrian general, Artemisia painted with a force that stunned. Judith’s sleeves are rolled up, her face set with unflinching determination, her muscles taut with the strain of justice delivered. Blood spurts with visceral realism. This is no allegory, no genteel morality tale. It is catharsis in paint, the artist herself, reclaiming agency with every stroke. Art historians often interpret the canvas as Artemisia’s personal reckoning with her trauma. But it is more than a biography. It is a radical reimagining of female strength at a time when women were cast as muses or ornaments, rarely as avengers. Artemisia’s Judith is not passive beauty but an active force. Her art declared that women could not only endure history but shape it. Her style combined the tenebrism of Caravaggio, dramatic contrasts of light and shadow, with her own distinct sensitivity to the textures of flesh, fabric, and emotion. She had absorbed her father’s technical training and Tassi’s compositional discipline. Still, she transformed them into something uniquely her own: a vision where women’s experiences were no longer background but center stage. Breaking Boundaries Despite the scandal, Artemisia’s career flourished. She moved to Florence, where her talent earned her admission into the Accademia delle Arti del Disegno, the first woman ever granted that honor. In Florence, she secured patrons from the Medici court, painted altarpieces and mythological scenes, and developed friendships with luminaries including Galileo Galilei. Her letters from this period reveal an artist both ambitious and self-assured. To one patron, she famously wrote: “You will find the spirit of Caesar in the soul of a woman.” Far from boastful, the line was both a manifesto and a mirror of her reality. She was staking her claim in a man’s world, not as an exception but as an equal. Her travels took her to Venice, Naples, and even London, where she worked alongside her father in the court of Charles I. Each city bore witness to canvases that blended sensuality with strength, spiritual devotion with psychological depth. Her Self-Portrait as the Allegory of Painting , depicting herself as La Pittura, or the very embodiment of Painting, was a stroke of both genius and audacity. For centuries, allegorical personifications had been described as idealized women; Artemisia dared to embody the concept herself, brush in hand, gaze resolute. A Voice That Echoes By the time of her death in Naples in 1656, Artemisia Gentileschi had left behind a body of work that was both vast and varied: biblical heroines rendered with unflinching humanity, mythological figures reimagined with depth, and portraits infused with rare psychological insight. But her legacy is not only painterly. It is also symbolic. She broke through the double barriers of gender and scandal to become a professional artist of renown, securing commissions from kings, dukes, and cardinals. Her existence itself challenged the narrative that women were mere muses or assistants in the great galleries of history. For centuries, her name was overshadowed, her works misattributed or neglected. It is only in the last fifty years that scholars and curators have fully restored her to her rightful place among the giants of European art. Exhibitions dedicated to her have drawn record crowds, and her paintings now hang in the world’s most prestigious collections, from the Uffizi to the National Gallery in London. In a world still grappling with questions of gender and power, Artemisia’s story feels startlingly contemporary. She is celebrated not only as Italy’s great Baroque painter but as a universal icon of resilience and defiance. Her canvases remind us that art is not merely beauty on display; it is survival, testimony, and sometimes, revenge. A Legacy That Endures Today, Artemisia Gentileschi is more than a historical figure. She is a symbol of possibility. Her life demonstrates that genius recognizes no boundaries of gender or circumstance. Her paintings, raw and unflinching, speak across centuries with voices still urgent: of women who demand to be seen, of truths that refuse silence, of beauty forged not in ease but in fire. Standing before Judith Slaying Holofernes or Susanna and the Elders , one does not simply view a Baroque masterpiece. One enters a dialogue with an artist who turned her suffering into strength, her silence into testimony, her brush into a sword. In every rolled sleeve and straining muscle of Judith, in every determined glance of her heroines, Artemisia Gentileschi declares to us what she proclaimed to her world: “È vero, è vero, è vero.” It is true, it is true, it is true. And so it remains. Thumbnail image: Wikimedia Commons Frequently Asked Questions Categories Travel Il Menù Shopping Lifestyle Stories Shopping A Roman Pilgrim’s Guide to Saint Jude | La Peninsula Go Travel Amangati: Aman’s Floating Sanctuary | Luxury Yacht Review Go Travel Canfora Capri Sandals: Timeless Craftsmanship on Italy’s Most Iconic Island Go Gallery Go Profumo di Firenze Go Mare Blu Swimwear Go Côte Cares: Sustainable Beauty for All Bodies Follow Us INSTAGRAM LINKEDIN What's Your Reaction? Join Our Newsletter Now Subscribe now to get notified about exclusive offers from La Peninsula every week! Email* SUBSCRIBE →

Discover the renewed Splendido, A Belmond Hotel, Portofino, where Italian heritage, refined design, fine dining and Riviera luxury create a new era of la dolce vita. Travel Splendido, A Belmond Hotel: A Riviera Legend Enters a New Era Gerri Melchionne Photos courtesy of Belmond 19 January 2026 8 min Heading 5 Go Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 5 Go Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. Heading 5 Go Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles. In Portofino, luxury is layered. High above the jewel-toned harbor, where cypress trees frame the sea and time slows to an elegant pace, Splendido, A Belmond Hotel, Portofino returns, renewed, radiant, and unmistakably Italian. Below, in the heart of the Piazzetta, its sister property, Splendido Mare, A Belmond Hotel, offers a more intimate, village-chic counterpoint. Distinct in spirit yet united by Belmond’s impeccable service, the two hotels form a single, seamless Riviera experience, connected by a complimentary shuttle that allows guests to move effortlessly between hilltop serenity and harbor-front vitality. Last summer, Splendido reopened following an extraordinary renovation by Martin Brudnizki Design Studio, honoring its storied past while ushering in a luminous new chapter of Riviera grandeur. Once a 16th-century Benedictine monastery and later a retreat for artists, aristocrats, and the international jet set, Splendido has long embodied la dolce vita. Today, it emerges more luminous than ever, steeped in heritage, elevated by design, and effortlessly modern. Liguria's Timeless Beauty From its pastel-hued façade to panoramic terraces, Splendido commands one of the most coveted views on the Ligurian coast . Here, amid rolling hills and sea breezes scented with citrus and salt, glamor has always felt natural, never forced. Views from Splendido, A Belmond Hotel Inside, botanical frescoes, bespoke Carrara marble details, Graniglia alla Genovese flooring, and locally sourced Lavagna stone anchor the interiors in authenticity. Custom furnishings and artisanal finishes create a quietly palatial air, a hotel that feels deeply rooted yet refreshingly current, a home where history and modernity coexist in effortless harmony. A Taste of Portofino At Splendido, dining unfolds at a leisurely pace. La Terrazza, the iconic fine-dining destination, celebrates seasonal, locally sourced ingredients with subtle creativity. Beneath cascading wisteria, Executive Chef Corrado Corti reinterprets classic Ligurian flavors, from pristine seafood to signature dishes, while regional wines flow freely as the sun melts into the harbor below. For a more relaxed pace, Splendido Grill channels the convivial spirit of Italian dining, offering comforting classics and seafood specialties paired with vibrant cocktails, ideal for long lunches and leisurely evenings that drift with the Riviera’s unhurried rhythm. Splendido Mare & DaV Mare Down by the water, Splendido Mare places guests at the center of the Piazzetta’s daily theatre, offering townhouse intimacy and access to Splendido’s hilltop amenities. At its heart lies DaV Mare, a collaboration with the Cerea family, culinary masters behind three-Michelin-starred Da Vittorio. Dining at Splendido Mare, A Belmond Hotel Menus celebrate the Ligurian Sea: a gluten-free spaghetti with Monterosso anchovies and bagnacauda opens the experience, followed by risotto with homemade pesto, Santa Margherita Ligure king prawns, and a silky DaV tomato emulsion. From the sea, turbot is paired with three caviars, coconut milk, and wasabi arugula, while the catch of the day evolves with the morning’s haul. For two, the Antipasto Portofino offers seven selections of fish, crustaceans, and seasonal vegetables, a celebration of abundance meant for sharing. Select dishes are finished tableside, adding theater to the convivial experience. Adjacent, the DaV Mare Bar offers aperitivo and evening cocktails crafted from local ingredients, as the Piazzetta lights shimmer. Baratta Sedici, Portofino’s New Social Heart Back at Splendido, Baratta Sedici blends hand-painted botanical murals, terracotta tones, and a luminous white onyx bar into an intimate yet cinematic gathering space. Signature cocktails, such as La Vela and U Chef , reflect the flavors of the Riviera as conversation flows into twilight. Suites and Wellness Throughout Splendido, rooms and suites feel intimate and lived-in, layered with Midollino weave inspired by Chiavari craftsmanship, hand-painted Albissola ceramics, and restored local furnishings. The Baronessa Suite stands as the crown jewel, with private garden access, sweeping terrace, and unforgettable views of the Gulf of Portofino. Wellbeing at Splendido is anchored by the Dior Spa Splendido, perched within the Portofino Natural Park. Guests of both Splendido and Splendido Mare enjoy full access to this serene indoor-outdoor sanctuary, where garden-inspired interiors and sweeping sea views create a sense of calm and indulgence. Treatments draw from Dior Haute Wellness, offering deeply restorative rituals designed to tone, sculpt, and rebalance. Signature experiences include New Look, a lymphatic drainage treatment that refines the silhouette and energizes the body; Constellation, a multi-sensory journey of slow, enveloping movements that release tension and restore inner peace; and D-Tissue, a deep, high-performance massage focused on muscle recovery, oxygenation, and detoxification. Each experience is thoughtfully tailored, blending precision, luxury, and the serene rhythm of the Riviera. While Splendido Mare offers select spa services, the heart of the wellness journey lies just moments away at Splendido…an elevated retreat where la dolce vita finds its most restorative expression. Christian Dior-themed wellness Completing this transformation is Villa Beatrice, Belmond’s most exclusive private residence in Portofino. Overlooking the Gulf of Tigullio and just minutes from the hotel, the restored seaside palazzo revives the tradition of villeggiatura , offering privacy, direct sea access, and Belmond’s signature service for families and intimate gatherings. With its reopening, Splendido does more than reclaim its place; it redefines it. Together with Splendido Mare, it offers elevated retreat and harbor-front immersion, grandeur, and intimacy. Rooted in history, elevated by design, and guided by the enduring allure of the Riviera, Splendido, A Belmond Hotel, Portofino once again stands as a living legend, beautifully reimagined. Frequently Asked Questions Categories Travel Il Menù Shopping Lifestyle Stories Shopping, On the Peninsula, Beauty, Lifestyle Polo and Palm Trees: The Polo Room Palm Beach Go Shopping, Lifestyle, Travel, On the Peninsula Inside The World’s Biggest Menswear Show in Florence Go IL Menu, Travel Valentine’s Day Just Got a Lot More Gothic Go Gallery Go Portofino Dry Gin: Liguria in a Bottle Go Dubai-based M. Kais Bridal Showcases Spring/Summer 2026 Collection at Milan Fashion Week 2025 Go Bouquet Italiano Follow Us INSTAGRAM LINKEDIN What's Your Reaction? Join Our Newsletter Now Subscribe now to get notified about exclusive offers from La Peninsula every week! Email* SUBSCRIBE →