Our Partners: Who Will You Meet at The Ultimate Mixer Monaco 2026?

Our Partners: Who Will You Meet at The Ultimate Mixer Monaco 2026?

Entrepreneurs. Investors. Executives. International businesses. In one elegant space in Monaco.

The most valuable connection at a business event is often the one you weren't expecting to make. Meet the businesses positioned at the heart of our event - and discover how your company can join them.

On Thursday 24th September 2026, during Monaco Yacht Show week, Club Vivanova presents The Ultimate Mixer Monaco 2026 at 99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant, Mareterra.

The evening will bring together entrepreneurs, investors, executives, business owners, luxury professionals and international companies for an evening built around one simple principle. Bring the right people together, create the right environment and allow relationships to develop naturally. But The Ultimate Mixer isn't simply about attending. For a growing group of companies, it is also an opportunity to be seen, be introduced and become part of the conversation.

Meet Our Partners

An increasingly diverse group of businesses and organisations has already chosen to partner with The Ultimate Mixer Monaco 2026.

DN Architectes - Architecture & Design
Luxury Concierge Service - Luxury Lifestyle & Concierge
Xpertise Lab Advisory - Investment & Strategic Advisory
Montenegro Properties - International Real Estate
Roma Digital - Digital Strategy & Technology
Intouch - Business & Technology
Rangoni Spirits - Premium Spirits
Arius Technology - Fine Art Technology
Relentless Magazine - Luxury & Lifestyle Media
JWP Media Marketing - Media & Marketing
International University of Monaco - International Business Education
Club Vivanova - International Business & Lifestyle Network

Different industries. Different markets. Different expertise.

One international network coming together in Monaco. More than a logo and our partners aren't simply names on an event page.

In the build-up to The Ultimate Mixer, we showcase participating companies across the Club Vivanova network, digital platforms, editorial content and social media, helping our international audience discover the businesses and people joining us.

On the evening itself, partners become part of the experience - meeting guests, developing relationships and creating conversations within a sophisticated international environment.

The objective isn't simply visibility. It is to create the opportunity for visibility to become a conversation, a conversation to become a relationship and a relationship to become an opportunity.

Monaco Yacht Show week creates an exceptional concentration of international entrepreneurs, executives, investors, luxury businesses and professionals in the Principality.

For selected companies looking to strengthen their presence, introduce their business or develop new relationships in Monaco, The Ultimate Mixer provides an opportunity to become part of that environment rather than simply attend it.

Our partner network is continuing to grow ahead of 24th September.

If your company belongs in this conversation, now is the time to join us.

→ Showcase your company at The Ultimate Mixer Monaco 2026

Who are you going to meet? There is no prescribed formula — and that is precisely the point. You might meet an entrepreneur developing their next international venture. An investor exploring new opportunities. An executive expanding into Monaco. A luxury professional seeking a new collaboration. A business owner looking for the right strategic relationship. Or somebody you had absolutely no expectation of meeting - who subsequently becomes an important connection.

The event is deliberately cross-sector, bringing together people from business, investment, property, architecture, technology, yachting, hospitality, luxury services, art, media, education and international entrepreneurship.

You never quite know who you are going to meet. And that is precisely what makes The Ultimate Mixer interesting. Not networking for networking's sake - The Ultimate Mixer isn't a conference. There are no lengthy presentations, rigid networking sessions or forced introductions. Instead, guests meet over cocktails in the sophisticated surroundings of 99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant at Mareterra, with the freedom to move around the room, start conversations and make connections naturally.

Some guests will be developing businesses. Others will be exploring investment or partnership opportunities. Some will be introducing brands, meeting potential clients or expanding their international networks. Others simply recognise that the right relationship today can become an opportunity tomorrow.

Monaco Yacht Show week - Timing matters.

Monaco Yacht Show week brings an exceptional international audience to the Principality and creates one of the most active periods of the year for Monaco's business and luxury communities.

The Ultimate Mixer provides an opportunity to step away from formal meetings and appointments and connect in a more relaxed environment - while remaining focused on meaningful professional relationships.

Whether you are based in Monaco or visiting internationally, it is an opportunity to broaden your network and meet people you may otherwise never encounter.

Extend the evening

For guests who would like to continue the experience, The Ultimate Mixer is followed by an exclusive dinner at 99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant.

The dinner creates a more intimate setting for conversations to continue around the table and relationships established during the cocktail reception to develop further.

Dinner places are limited and can be selected when reserving.

The Ultimate Mixer Monaco 2026
Thursday 24 September 2026 . 7pm
99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant
Mareterra, Monaco

An international evening of business, lifestyle and connection during Monaco Yacht Show week.

Be at the event.. Be part of the conversation.

→ Reserve your place at The Ultimate Mixer Monaco 2026

September in Monaco: A New Season in the Principality

September in Monaco: A New Season in the Principality

September brings a distinctive energy back to Monaco. Following the height of the Mediterranean summer, residents return, businesses gather pace and the Principality enters one of the most important periods in its international calendar.

Warm days and long evenings remain, but September brings with it a renewed focus on business, culture and the exceptional year-round lifestyle that makes Monaco such a compelling place to live.

The Monaco Yacht Show

At the heart of September is the Monaco Yacht Show, when Port Hercule becomes the centre of the international superyacht world.

Leading yacht builders, designers, brokers, owners and industry professionals converge on the Principality, bringing an extraordinary international audience to Monaco. Beyond yachting itself, the week has become an important meeting point for luxury, investment and global business.

For residents, it is another reminder of Monaco's remarkable ability to combine the intimacy of a small Mediterranean Principality with the influence and connectivity of an international business centre.

Monaco Beyond the Summer

While the Côte d'Azur is synonymous with summer, September offers one of the most attractive periods of the year in Monaco.

The Mediterranean climate remains warm, terraces and restaurants continue to thrive and the coastline can be enjoyed without the intensity of the peak holiday season. At the same time, Monaco's business and social calendars return in force.

For those who call the Principality home, this balance is part of Monaco's enduring appeal: a highly international community, exceptional restaurants and hospitality, cultural and sporting events, security, connectivity and the Mediterranean on the doorstep.

A New Season for Monaco Property

September also marks a natural moment for renewed activity in the Monaco property market.

As residents and international buyers return to the Principality, attention turns towards the months ahead and opportunities to establish or expand a presence in Monaco.

Whether considering a permanent residence, a second home or an investment, the Principality remains one of the world's most distinctive property markets, offering an exceptional combination of location, lifestyle and international appeal.

Savills Monaco provides expert advice and access to property opportunities throughout the Principality.

For further information on available property opportunities in Monaco, please contact our team.

Savills Monaco

+377 97 70 42 00

Chef Wagner Spadacio: An Exclusive Sushi Experience in Monaco

Chef Wagner Spadacio: An Exclusive Sushi Experience in Monaco

Experience with the best. Learn from a master. Discover the art of sushi.

On Friday 18th September, Club Vivanova presents an exclusive opportunity to experience the craft of sushi with Chef Wagner Spadacio at The Niwaki Monaco.

Limited to just six guests, this intimate evening goes far beyond a traditional dinner. It is an opportunity to get behind the scenes, learn directly from Chef Wagner Spadacio and discover the precision, technique and creativity that define exceptional Japanese cuisine. Reserve your place →

Learn from Wagner Spadacio

The evening begins at 6pm with an exclusive interactive sushi masterclass led by Chef Wagner Spadacio at the sushi kitchen.

Guests will have the opportunity to work alongside the chef and learn how to prepare six signature pieces, including nigiri, hosomaki, uramaki and temaki.

This is a rare chance to experience the craft at close quarters — to ask questions, understand the techniques and gain a deeper appreciation of what happens behind the sushi counter.

The masterclass will be accompanied by Shichiken Namanama Saké, adding another layer of discovery to the experience.

From Masterclass to Omakase

At 7pm, guests take their seats for an exclusive five-course omakase dinner, continuing the evening's journey through Japanese cuisine.

Each course is carefully paired with a selection of Sliding Hill wines from New Zealand, creating an opportunity to discover how distinctive New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir interact with the flavours, textures and umami character of Japanese cuisine.

From the chef's sushi selection and rock shrimp tempura to smoked Chilean sea bass with yuzu miso, the menu offers a carefully curated progression of flavours.

An evening of Experience & Discovery

With only six places available, the evening has been deliberately designed to be personal, interactive and engaging.

It is about meeting the chef, learning from his expertise, experiencing the cuisine and discovering exceptional wine in an intimate setting.

This is the kind of experience Club Vivanova seeks to create: access to exceptional people, genuine expertise and memorable experiences that you cannot simply replicate by booking a table.

Experience with the best. Learn from a master. Discover something exceptional.

The Experience

Friday 18 September 2026
6pm – 10pm
The Niwaki Monaco
€290 per person
Strictly limited to 6 guests

Includes the sushi masterclass, five-course omakase dinner, selected New Zealand wines, Shichiken Namanama Saké during the masterclass, water and coffee.

Reserve your place →

This is an exclusive six-person experience, so early reservation is recommended.

Fine Art Preservation: Arius Technology, 3D Scanning & Arctic Storage

Arius Technology: Fine Art Preservation & Digital Innovation

How Arius is using sub-micron 3D scanning and Arctic permafrost to preserve the physical truth of fine art for centuries.

This October, a quiet convergence of optical laser engineering and polar storage will offer a new opportunity for cultural resilience. Deep inside a decommissioned coal mine in the demilitarized permafrost of Svalbard, Norway, Arius is preparing to deposit ultra-high-resolution Art Digital Master Files (ADMFs) into the Arctic World Archive (AWA).

This pioneering move comes as physical masterpieces across museums, private galleries, and heritage sites face growing threats from humidity shifts, natural disasters, geopolitical conflict, and natural material decay. Every painting carries stories told by its surface color, the physical footprint of its creation, the height of an impasto peak, the stress cracks in old varnish, and the distinct pressure of an artist’s brush. Using world-leading technology, we want to preserve and protect the world’s cultural heritage like never before. 

Arctic World Archive Main Entrance in Svalbard

Capturing the True Topography of Fine Art

Traditional digital archiving relies on flat, high-resolution photography, capturing color while losing the three-dimensional geometry of an object. Arius takes a radically different approach. Using their fully mobile, proprietary, non-contact 3D laser scanning, Arius’ revolutionary new scanner “Moneta” measures canvas and panel surfaces at a sub-micron scale, in any location, under any lighting conditions.

The resulting "Art Digital Master File" acts as a digital twin of an artwork. By mapping the exact color, geometry, and surface elevation down to 10 microns (one hundredth of a millimeter), each Arius scan safely captures the physical truth of an artwork without ever touching its surface. While Arius ADMF™ data is digitally stored with the most stringent security protocols, this partnership presents the ultimate solution for protecting the world’s most precious assets. 

When transferred to the Piql’s specialized, light-sensitive silver-halide ‘PiqlFilm’, Arius’ sub-micron data is rendered immutable. Stored hundreds of meters inside the Arctic permafrost, the AWA archives require no electricity to remain stable and are protected from cyber threats, electromagnetic pulses, and extreme environmental fluctuations for over 1,000 years. 

A Global Imperative for Cultural Protection

The initiative comes at a moment when cultural institutions worldwide are re-evaluating how to safeguard irreplaceable assets against rapid environmental shifts and unpredictable regional instability.

"Cultural preservation can no longer rely solely on physical walls and climate-controlled galleries," says Marco Antonio Soriano, CEO of Arius Europe. "In an increasingly unpredictable world, backing up human creativity requires structural precision. By pairing our sub-micron scanning capabilities with the absolute security of Svalbard’s permafrost, we are giving fine art an unalterable digital refuge. It ensures that no matter what transpires on the surface, the physical truth of global heritage remains protected for centuries."

Arius Chief Revenue Officer, Patrick Bruce-Lockhart (left) and CEO of Arius EU, Marco Antonio Soriano (back right) meeting the AWA Leadership team in Norway: Rune Bjerkestrand (right), Katrine Loen (middle) and Bendik Bryde (left).

Restorative Precision for the Future

Beyond catastrophe insurance, the integration of sub-micron scan data into long-term polar storage opens practical applications for conservation and art historical research:

• Sub-Micron Topography: Documents paint layers, craquelure patterns, and surface relief in absolute structural detail, providing an undeniable record of authenticity and physical condition.

• Absolute Geopolitical Security: Stored in an unhackable, offline facility within a neutral international territory, data remains completely isolated from digital warfare and systemic power failures.

• Diagnostic & Restorative Utility: Provides future conservators, curators, and researchers with precise structural data to monitor physical degradation over time or assist in high-fidelity restoration efforts.

As fine art shifts into an era of physical objects requiring permanent digital backups, Arius’ upcoming Arctic deposit establishes a concrete standard: preserving not just how art looks, but the stories it holds and the way it was created.

From Svalbard to Monaco: Meet Arius Pioneers at the Club Vivanova Gala

Following the historic Arctic deposit, members of the Arius executive team will attend the Club Vivanova Royal Charity Gala in November. This special event is held under the High Patronage and Presence of H.S.H. Princess Stéphanie of Monaco, who is known for her patronage and love of the arts, and supports two remarkable Monegasque charities: Fight Aids Monaco and Écoute Cancer Réconfort.

We’re honored to support such causes and attend the special gala, which also offers an exclusive opportunity for collectors, cultural leaders, and Club Vivanova members to meet the Arius leadership team. Attendees will gain first-hand insight into Arius' groundbreaking 3D laser technology, explore the future of fine art digital preservation, and discover how sub-micron scanning is transforming both art conservation and luxury asset stewardship.

Learn more about the gala and purchase tickets from Club Vivanova: https://www.clubvivanova-luxurygala.com/ 

Bring Your Business To Monaco . A New Era Of Bespoke Business Activation

Bring Your Business To Monaco . A New Era Of Bespoke Business Activation

Club Vivanova introduces a new bespoke service for international businesses, entrepreneurs and luxury brands looking to establish meaningful connections and build their presence in Monaco.

Monaco has always been about connections.

Behind the yachts, grand prix weekends, luxury hospitality and international business community is something considerably more valuable: a concentration of entrepreneurs, investors, business leaders, private clients and internationally minded professionals who come together from around the world.

For more than two decades, Club Vivanova has built its reputation around bringing these people together through exceptional experiences.

Now, that experience is becoming a dedicated service.

Bringing Business to Monaco

Club Vivanova has launched Business Activation — a bespoke service designed for businesses, entrepreneurs and luxury brands looking to establish, develop or strengthen their presence in Monaco.

Rather than offering conventional event management, Club Vivanova creates private experiences around a client's objectives.

That might mean an intimate executive dinner, a private cocktail reception, an investor gathering, a client experience, a luxury brand activation or a carefully curated HNW networking evening. The format is flexible. The objective comes first. The right people. The right environment. The right experience.

More Than Just An Event

A successful business event is not simply about finding an impressive venue and filling a guest list. The real value lies in who is in the room, why they are there and what happens when the conversation begins. This is where Club Vivanova's established network becomes particularly powerful.

Based in the Principality of Monaco, Club Vivanova connects dynamic professionals, business leaders and affluent entrepreneurs through exclusive events, strategic partnerships and premium experiences. The club's existing community includes more than 400 international partners and members, while its wider event programme extends across Monaco, Europe and Asia.

Business Activation brings that ecosystem together around a specific business objective.

From Strategy to Connection

Every activation begins with understanding what the client wants to achieve.

Perhaps an international company is entering the Monaco market for the first time.

Perhaps an established business wants to meet potential investors, strategic partners or private clients.

A luxury brand may want to introduce itself to a carefully selected Monaco audience.

An entrepreneur may simply want to create an exceptional environment in which valuable relationships can develop naturally.

Club Vivanova builds the experience around that objective.

Strategy

Understanding the business, its objectives and the people it wants to reach.

Curation

Identifying and bringing together an audience with genuine relevance.

Experience

Creating a distinctive Monaco event around the brand, objectives and audience.

Connection

Facilitating the relationships that can continue long after the evening has ended.

The Value of a Curated Audience

One of the most important differences between a Club Vivanova experience and a conventional corporate event is the emphasis on curation.

The objective is not simply to attract as many guests as possible.

It is to create a room in which the people present have a genuine reason to meet.

That philosophy has been central to Club Vivanova's business networking model for years. The club's existing events bring together entrepreneurs, executives, investors, luxury brand leaders and international professionals in carefully selected Monaco venues.

For a business seeking to establish itself in Monaco, that can be far more valuable than traditional exposure. A conversation over dinner can become an introduction. An introduction can become a partnership. A partnership can become a client relationship. And an exceptional evening can create the foundation for all three.

What We Create

Business Activation is deliberately flexible.

Private Executive Dinners

Intimate gatherings designed around meaningful conversation and strategic relationships.

HNW Networking Experiences

Curated occasions bringing together entrepreneurs, investors, private clients and business leaders.

Brand Activations

Distinctive Monaco experiences designed to introduce and position a business within the luxury ecosystem.

Investor & Partner Events

Private gatherings designed to facilitate relationships with investors, partners and strategic contacts.

Client Experiences

Exceptional experiences for existing clients, prospects and VIP guests.

Private Receptions

Cocktail receptions and bespoke social occasions designed around a particular objective and audience.

The result is not a standardised event package. It is a Monaco experience built around the business.

Why Monaco?

For international businesses, Monaco offers a unique environment. It is small enough for relationships to matter, international enough to attract decision-makers from around the world, and deeply connected to luxury, finance, yachting, property, hospitality, investment and entrepreneurship.

Major international occasions such as Monaco Grand Prix and Monaco Yacht Show Week create particularly powerful opportunities to bring international audiences together.

Club Vivanova has long used these moments to create business networking experiences in exceptional locations, including its recent VIP networking event at 99 Sushi Bar Mareterra during Monaco Grand Prix week and its forthcoming Ultimate Mixer during Monaco Yacht Show Week.

Business Activation extends that capability beyond the traditional event calendar.

It gives businesses the opportunity to create their own Monaco moment.

A New Chapter for Club Vivanova

Club Vivanova has evolved considerably since its establishment in 2002. What began as a business and lifestyle networking concept has developed into an international community connecting professionals and entrepreneurs through events, partnerships, editorial and luxury experiences.

The next stage is not necessarily about making events bigger. It is about making them more relevant. Smaller, carefully curated gatherings can create deeper conversations, stronger relationships and a more valuable experience for everyone involved.

That philosophy is at the heart of Business Activation. It is about quality over quantity. Relationships over attendance figures. And meaningful connections over conventional corporate hospitality.

The Right People. The Right Environment. The Right Experience.

Club Vivanova believes that the most valuable business relationships rarely begin in a crowded conference room.

They happen around a dinner table. Over a glass of wine. On a private terrace overlooking Monaco. At an intimate reception where people have time to talk. That is the environment Club Vivanova creates.

For businesses looking to enter Monaco, strengthen their presence, introduce their brand or bring the right people together, the opportunity is now open.

Bring Your Business to Monaco

→ DISCUSS YOUR MONACO BUSINESS ACTIVATION WITH CLUB VIVANOVA

About Club Vivanova

Established in 2002 and based in the Principality of Monaco, Club Vivanova is a luxury business networking community connecting dynamic professionals, business leaders and affluent entrepreneurs through exclusive events, strategic partnerships, premium experiences and digital editorial. With an international network of more than 400 partners and members, Club Vivanova creates opportunities for businesses to build meaningful relationships across Monaco and beyond.Now, that experience is becoming a dedicated service.

São Tomé and Príncipe: The UNESCO Paradise You’ve Probably Never Heard Of

São Tomé and Príncipe: The UNESCO Paradise You’ve Probably Never Heard Of 

In July 2026, UNESCO inscribed The Roças of São Tomé and Príncipe: Colonial Agricultural System and Forced Migration on the World Heritage List, the country's first World Heritage property. 

The designation covers six historic roças: Monte Café, Água Izé, Diogo Vaz, São João, Sundy and Belo Monte. Developed primarily around coffee and cocoa production, these vast plantation complexes incorporated agricultural land, processing infrastructure, housing and social facilities into remarkably organized settlements. 

But their beauty cannot be separated from their history. 

UNESCO's designation explicitly recognizes the roças as evidence of a colonial agro-industrial system sustained by forced migration and labor from the late nineteenth through the mid-twentieth century. They are monuments not only to architecture or agriculture, but to the human system that once connected these remote islands to the world's appetite for commodities. 

For São Tomé and Príncipe, the recognition is significant for another reason. 

It places an almost unknown country on the world's cultural map. 

The First Biosphere Nation 

The World Heritage inscription follows another extraordinary recognition. 

In September 2025, UNESCO designated the island of São Tomé as a Biosphere Reserve. Príncipe had already held that status since 2012. 

Together, the two designations made São Tomé and Príncipe the first country in the world to have its entire territory covered by UNESCO biosphere reserves. 

It is difficult to imagine a better description of the country itself. 

São Tomé rises dramatically from the Atlantic, with volcanic peaks, dense forests, coastal ecosystems and agricultural landscapes concentrated into an island of remarkable ecological intensity. UNESCO records around 1,200 plant species on São Tomé alone, including 148 endemic species found nowhere else on Earth. Its forests shelter rare birds, amphibians and reptiles, while four species of marine turtle nest along its shores. 

Príncipe is even older. 

Formed approximately 31 million years ago, it is the oldest of the oceanic volcanic islands in this part of the Gulf of Guinea. Primary rainforest survives across its mountainous south, while its surrounding islets and waters form part of the wider biosphere landscape. 

This is why calling São Tomé and Príncipe a tropical paradise somehow feels insufficient. 

Its value is not simply that it is beautiful. 

It is that so much remains intact. 

Before the World Arrives 

There is a familiar trajectory for beautiful islands. 

Discovery is followed by investment.  

Investment brings infrastructure. 

Infrastructure brings accessibility.  

Accessibility brings volume.  

And somewhere along that progression, the quality that made the place desirable begins to morph. 

São Tomé and Príncipe stands at an unusually interesting point in that cycle. 

Recognition is increasing, but mass tourism has not yet arrived. 

Its cocoa and coffee are finding international audiences. Eco tourism is expanding. Historic roças are being reconsidered as cultural and hospitality assets. Renewable energy, climate resilience, and biodiversity conservation are national development priorities, while international organizations are supporting projects ranging from clean energy to youth entrepreneurship and environmental protection.  

São Tomé and Príncipe is looking outward: attracting investment, improving infrastructure, developing renewable energy and seeking ways to translate its exceptional natural capital into sustainable prosperity. 

In 2025, the country also introduced citizenship by investment program, creating a new route for international families and entrepreneurs to establish a permanent connection with the islands. 

The program is interesting not merely because of the passport itself, fast processing time (6-8 weeks) or an attractive investment amount (under 100k), but because of what it represents. 

For a country of this scale, carefully directed foreign capital can have a visible effect. Infrastructure, renewable power, education, sustainable tourism and local enterprise are not abstract development categories here. In a nation of fewer than a quarter of a million people, relatively modest projects can change communities. 

A Country Beginning to Open 

São Tomé and Príncipe will not remain unknown forever. 

UNESCO has now recognized both sides of its extraordinary inheritance: in 2025, a natural landscape significant enough for an entire nation to fall within the World Network of Biosphere Reserves; in 2026, a difficult but important human landscape whose roças tell a story of colonial agriculture, forced migration and the global cocoa economy. 

Together, those recognitions say something important about these islands: a new chapter. 

As São Tomé and Príncipe enters this new era, there are now more ways to build a connection with one of the world’s most remarkable emerging destinations. 

NTL Trust is a licensed agent for the São Tomé and Príncipe Citizenship by Investment Programme, advising international clients on citizenship, investment and long-term opportunities in the country. 

To learn more about São Tomé and Príncipe, its citizenship program and the possibilities emerging across the islands, contact NTL Trust at info@ntltrust.com. 

Why Staying Hydrated Helps Your Brain Health in a Heatwave

Why Staying Hydrated Helps Your Brain Health in a Heatwave

This summer, the UK has already recorded more days above 30-degrees than it did in the whole of 1976 or the whole of 2020, two summers widely remembered for historic heat. The Met Office has issued multiple heat warnings with forecasters expecting temperatures could reach 36-degrees. While the majority of people enjoy some heat, as a nation, temperatures approaching 30-degrees are not something we’re equipped to handle. The North Atlantic Drift and jet stream result in the UK having a predominantly maritime climate – with mild, wet winters and relatively warm, but changeable summers. British infrastructure is not built to deal with continuous heat – made more apparent by the fact that houses are fitted with central heating, not air conditioning units and are often built to retain the heat. This can quickly make everyday life feel uncomfortable and challenging.

Within the human body, water makes up approximately 73-75% of the brain – it is essential to how neurons in the brain ‘fire’, how nutrients move through brain tissue, and how waste products are cleared by the glymphatic system when we sleep. When the body loses water faster than it replaces it – with even a small amount of fluid loss (up to 1-2% of body weight) – research suggests the brain may immediately be impacted, even before you become thirsty. You may begin to experience effects such as brain fog, a lower attention span, or slower memory and processing speed.

On top of natural water loss, exercise, humidity, and heat can greatly increase water output. When the core body temperature rises, the body prioritises cooling itself by redirecting blood towards the skin to dissipate heat. This may result in less blood, oxygen and glucose (the brain’s main source of energy) being available for the brain’s everyday workload. In the 2026 paper Nutrition and Hydration Strategies for Heatwave Adaptation it was found in one study that even mild dehydration – where the body loses a small amount of fluid, and lacks enough water to perform at its best – is enough to affect cognitive output. Dehydration has also been linked to short-term memory loss, slower reaction times, impaired concentration, and a drop in executive function.

As well as affecting the body during the day, the heat can also disrupt sleep. Overnight temperatures that stay uncomfortably high may interfere with the deep stages of sleep. The brain needs this time to clear the toxins accumulated throughout the day, but also to consolidate the memories formed. When the heat impacts brain health at night, we’re not able to fully rest and reset, which is needed to help us carry out everyday executive function and perform at our best in everyday life. 

Older adults are also vulnerable during a heatwave, for as we age, the body’s natural thirst response blunts, and so many older people don’t feel thirsty even though they are. In addition, impaired temperature sensing can be experienced – this means that the regions of the brain responsible for thermoregulation find it harder to sense and respond to extreme heat. The resulting combination of dehydration and heat stress can have a significant negative impact on cognitive wellbeing, and can worsen confusion, agitation and brain fog. This becomes a dangerous loop if an individual has a neurodegenerative disease such as Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, or they are unable to help themselves. This is why the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) specifically flags risk for older populations with heat alerts, and where the cognitive and physical effects of heat and dehydration arrive faster and hit much harder later in life.

Five ways to stay hydrated in a heatwave

Unlike many risk factors for cognitive decline, dehydration is one that is within our power to correct within hours – rather than over months or years. Here are five practices that will make a big difference to brain health during hot weather:

1. Drink before you’re thirsty. By the time you’re thirsty, mild dehydration has already kicked in. A great way to stay hydrated is to sip water steadily throughout the day, rather than gulping large amounts when you’re thirsty. This will help keep fluid levels stable and can help keep headaches, low mood, and irritability at bay. 

2. Balance water with electrolytes. When the body is hot, it sweats to control our body temperature. Heavy sweating depletes electrolytes including sodium and potassium (alongside water), which are essential for basic functioning. Therefore replacing those fluids is key. Good sources can be found in your daily diet, such as sodium in salt and potassium can be found in fruits and vegetables like bananas and spinach.  

3. Eat fresh and hydrating foods to increase water intake. Good examples are watermelon and cucumber, which contain up to 92% and 96% water respectively. Eating them helps to replenish your body with vital fluids and electrolytes needed on the hotter days. 

4. Try to time cognitively demanding work around the heat. If possible, try to tackle work that requires high levels of focus and concentration during the cooler parts of the day, and treat the hottest hours as a time to slow down. 

5. Check in on older relatives and neighbours. Because the thirst response depletes as we get older, take the time to check in on others, especially those who are unable to help themselves easily. This has the power to catch a hydration problem before it becomes a medical one.

Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and more intense across the UK and it’s unlikely that this summer will be the last series of heatwaves we experience. Beyond the immediate advice to drink more water and understand the brain and body’s tell-tale signs of dehydration, it’s also worth putting this advice into practice beyond the heat. Hydration is key for good health – hot weather or not – so treating these practices as foundational rather than as a summer special will help to protect brain health longevity in later life. 

For more information on how to look after your brain health in later life visit www.brain.health.

Mitton Wines & Club Vivanova Bring a Longstanding Soho House Partnership to Bangkok

Mitton Wines & Club Vivanova Bring a Longstanding Soho House Partnership to Bangkok

Mitton Wines, Club Vivanova and Soho House Bangkok are coming together for an intimate evening of wine, conversation and international networking, continuing a relationship between the Mitton Wines group and Soho House that stretches back to the development of Soho House Berlin.

Mitton International Wines has maintained a longstanding relationship with Soho House in Berlin, dating back to the period surrounding the opening of Soho House Berlin in 2010, the group's first House in continental Europe.

Now, as Mitton Wines continues its rapid expansion across Asia, the relationship is developing into a new international chapter with Soho House Bangkok.

On Thursday 15th October 2026, Mitton Wines Thailand and Club Vivanova together with event partner High Life Management Thailand will host an exclusive Wine Social at Soho House Bangkok, bringing together approximately 40 carefully selected guests from Bangkok's hospitality, food and beverage, business and creative communities alongside Soho House members.

Hosted in the House's intimate Naughty Room, the evening will feature a curated selection of wines presented by Bradley Mitton, Founder & Managing Director of Mitton Wines and Club Vivanova, alongside canapés, relaxed conversation and an environment designed specifically for meaningful introductions and new connections.

From Berlin to Bangkok via Monaco

The collaboration represents more than a wine event. It reflects the increasingly international nature of the Mitton Wines and Club Vivanova networks, connecting relationships developed across Europe, Monaco and Asia.

What began through Mitton International Wines' longstanding relationship with Soho House Berlin is now being extended into one of Asia's most dynamic cities.

Bradley Mitton commented:

“We have enjoyed a longstanding relationship with Soho House in Berlin, and it is particularly exciting to now develop that relationship in Asia. Bangkok has become an important part of our international growth, and Soho House provides an exceptional environment in which to bring together people from hospitality, business, wine and the creative industries.”

The evening will focus on wine, conversation and connection rather than formal presentations, creating an atmosphere where guests can discover new wines while meeting interesting people from across Bangkok's international community.

For Club Vivanova, the event also represents the continued evolution of its international network, bringing its established approach to luxury lifestyle, business networking and curated experiences into Asia.

A New Chapter in Bangkok

With Mitton Wines building its presence in Thailand and Club Vivanova expanding its international community, the collaboration with Soho House Bangkok provides an opportunity to connect established European relationships with a new generation of entrepreneurs, hospitality professionals, creatives and international residents in Asia.

Come for the wine. Stay for the conversation.

Mitton Wines x Soho House Bangkok Wine Social
Thursday, 15 October 2026 | 7:00–9:00 PM
Naughty Room, Soho House Bangkok
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Southern Chic: One of Sardinia’s Most Exclusive Beachfront Estates

Southern Chic: One of Sardinia’s Most Exclusive Beachfront Estates

Set directly on the sands of Genn’e Mari in Torre delle Stelle, Southern Chic is an exceptional beachfront estate where the Mediterranean begins at the edge of the garden. More than a beautiful place to stay, it offers a private world shaped by sea, space and effortless luxury.

The villa has remained in the same family for three generations, and that sense of continuity can be felt throughout. Personally cared for with warmth, taste and a deep connection to Sardinia, Southern Chic combines heritage with a discreet, highly attentive style of hospitality.

Inside, traditional Sardinian character blends with relaxed contemporary elegance. Handmade ceramics, terracotta floors, local stone, marble, wood and whitewashed walls create interiors that feel refined yet rooted in the island. Ten individually themed suites, each with its own ensuite bathroom, give every guest a distinct sense of place and privacy.

Life unfolds naturally outdoors. Mornings begin with breakfast in the soft coastal light, afternoons drift between the infinity pool and the clear waters of Genn’e Mari, and evenings are made for private-chef dinners beneath the stars.

A dedicated team provides housekeeping, guest support and concierge-style service throughout the stay, while menus can be tailored to individual tastes and dietary requirements. Yoga, massages and wellness treatments can also be arranged, alongside boat trips, pasta-making classes, wine experiences and cultural excursions.

Ideal for families, groups of friends, retreats and private celebrations, Southern Chic offers togetherness and quiet escape in equal measure. Guests can gather around the pool, enjoy long lunches overlooking the sea or find a peaceful corner among the gardens and terraces.

The true luxury of Southern Chic lies in the freedom it offers: to wake without an agenda, swim before breakfast and experience Sardinia slowly, privately and entirely at your own pace.

Stay with us, and no request is too extravagant. Southern Chic reflects the same lifestyle of quiet, considered luxury across every destination we call our own.

£47.5m Financing Secured for Panattoni Wakefield 500 Logistics Development

£47.5m Financing Secured for Panattoni Wakefield 500 Logistics Development

Newport Logistics Fund III has arranged £47.5m of loan financing from Merseyside Pension Fund for Panattoni Wakefield 500, a major speculative logistics development under construction in West Yorkshire.

Located at Wakefield Europort, the development will provide approximately 46,500 sqm (500,000 sq ft) of Grade A logistics space. It will be the region’s only speculative unit of this scale and one of the largest Grade A logistics opportunities in the North of England.

The location provides access to the M62, M1 and A1(M), as well as nearby intermodal rail infrastructure. This connectivity supports distribution across the North of England, the Midlands and the wider UK.

Panattoni Wakefield 500 is targeting BREEAM Outstanding, an EPC A rating for the warehouse and net zero carbon in construction. Practical completion is scheduled for Q2 2027.

The financing supports the continued delivery of the development and reflects lender confidence in the investment. Merseyside Pension Fund was advised by CBRE UK Lending

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Behind the Royal Charity Auction: Bradley Mitton on Turning Luxury into Charity

Behind the Royal Charity Auction: Bradley Mitton on Turning Luxury into Charity

An exclusive Club Vivanova interview with founder Bradley Mitton about the people, partnerships and preparation behind the 2026 Royal Charity Gala auction.

There is a moment during the Club Vivanova Royal Charity Gala when the atmosphere changes.

After the Champagne reception, gourmet dinner, entertainment and fashion presentation, attention turns towards the charity auction. Guests begin looking through the catalogue, auction lots are presented, and the room becomes part of something very different: an opportunity to turn luxury experiences, products and partnerships into meaningful support for charity.

At the 2026 Club Vivanova Royal Charity Gala, taking place on Saturday 28 November at the Fairmont Monte Carlo, the auction will once again benefit Fight Aids Monaco and Écoute Cancer Réconfort, under the High Patronage and Presence of H.S.H. Princess Stéphanie of Monaco. The auction will be officiated by Sheriff Thomas Lefevre.

We spoke with Club Vivanova founder Bradley Mitton about what happens behind the scenes — from approaching companies and securing donations to developing the catalogue and ultimately selling the lots on the night.

Bradley, when people attend the gala, they see the auction on the night. What they don't necessarily see is everything that happens beforehand. When does the process begin?

Much earlier than people imagine! The auction is actually one of the biggest projects within the gala. You cannot simply arrive a few weeks before the event and expect to have an exceptional auction.

We start by thinking about what would genuinely appeal to our audience. We are fortunate to have an international network of entrepreneurs, business owners, investors, luxury brands and professionals, so we want the auction to reflect that.

Then comes the difficult part — finding companies and individuals who are prepared to donate something genuinely valuable.

That can be a product, but I particularly like experiences. A luxury hotel stay, a yacht experience, a unique wine or spirits collection, a private dining experience, a sporting experience, access to something that money cannot easily buy.

The objective is to create something where the donor receives visibility and goodwill, the winning bidder receives something exceptional, and most importantly, the charities benefit.

How important is the relationship with the companies donating the lots?

Extremely important. You are asking a company to give something away. Even though it is for a wonderful cause, that is still a significant commercial decision.

I therefore try to make the conversation about partnership rather than simply asking for a donation.

We explain what the gala represents, who attends, who the beneficiaries are and how the company will be presented.

We also give the donor an opportunity to tell their story.

A good auction catalogue is not simply a list of things for sale. It is effectively a showcase of the companies and experiences behind those lots.

Last year's catalogue was quite substantial. How do you approach creating it?

The catalogue is incredibly important because it starts selling the auction before the auction actually happens.

For the 2025 gala, we created an 11-lot catalogue with a combined stated retail value of €43,000. The lots ranged from a Monte Carlo golf experience and luxury magazine feature to skincare, wine, a Monaco Grand Prix yacht experience, a Hotel de Paris wine-cellar experience, a Fairmont Monte Carlo weekend, rare whisky and Monaco Yacht Show hospitality.

Each lot had its own dedicated presentation, description, retail value and contact information.

That gives you an idea of the breadth we are looking for.

The catalogue has to look professional because it represents both Club Vivanova and the companies supporting the auction. It also has to make the lots sound exciting without exaggerating what is being offered.

Ultimately, we want someone sitting at the gala to look through the catalogue and think:

“I want that.”

So the catalogue is actually part of the sales process?

Absolutely. It is effectively the sales tool for the auction.

If someone is going to bid several thousand euros for an experience, they need to understand exactly what they are getting.

We therefore spend a lot of time on the descriptions, photography, presentation and perceived value.

The 2025 catalogue also included a final mixed lot of offers from partners, which is another useful way of bringing several smaller contributions together into an attractive package.

How do you decide whether a potential donation is right for the auction?

It has to be something that our audience will want. That is the first question.

The second is whether it has a genuine value proposition.

And the third is whether it fits the spirit of the gala.

I would rather have ten exceptional lots than thirty mediocre ones. The auction should feel exclusive. It should feel like guests are being offered access to something special.

Is it difficult to persuade companies to donate?

Yes — and that is probably one of the biggest challenges. You have to ask a lot of people.

Some companies say yes immediately. Others need to understand the opportunity. Some cannot donate a product but may be able to provide an experience, hospitality, a service or an introduction.

And occasionally you speak to a company several times before the timing is right.

The key is persistence without becoming pushy.

I also believe strongly in explaining where the money goes. For the 2026 gala, the auction is supporting Fight Aids Monaco and Écoute Cancer Réconfort, with the auction proceeds being divided equally between the two charities.

That makes the conversation very straightforward:

We are not asking you simply to give something away. We are asking you to help us create something that raises money for two important Monaco charities.

What happens once the catalogue is finished?

Then the real anticipation starts.

We promote the lots to the gala audience and make sure people understand what will be available.

But ultimately, the auction is about what happens in that room.

For 2026, we are delighted that the auction will be officiated by Sheriff Thomas Lefevre.

You need someone who can read the room, create energy and encourage people to participate while keeping everything professional and entertaining. I do my best in that role, but it’s exhausting.

What is your role on the night?

My role is really to make sure everything comes together.

I know the lots, I know the donors and I know the story behind the auction.

There is also an element of selling.

You have to remind people why the lot is special, but you also have to remind them why they are bidding.

This isn't simply a commercial auction.

Someone isn't spending €2,000 or €5,000 just to acquire something. They are also contributing to charity.

That changes the psychology completely.

Do you find people bid differently at a charity auction?

Definitely.

There is an emotional element.

People are enjoying themselves, they are surrounded by friends and business contacts, they have had a wonderful evening — and then suddenly they have an opportunity to do something meaningful.

Sometimes a person bids because they really want the lot.

Sometimes they bid because they want to support the charity.

And sometimes they simply get caught up in the excitement!

That's part of the magic of a live auction.

What have you learned from running the gala auctions over the years?

That people genuinely want to give back.

Our annual galas have now raised more than €425,000 for our partner charities, which is something I am extremely proud of.

But I have also learned that fundraising is about relationships.

You cannot build a successful charity auction by sending one email and asking for a donation.

It comes from relationships with companies, entrepreneurs, hotel groups, yacht companies, wineries, luxury brands and individuals.

You have to create trust.

What would you say to a company considering donating a lot to the 2026 auction?

I would say: join us. You have an opportunity to put your brand in front of an international audience, tell your story, create an exceptional experience for a successful bidder and, most importantly, help raise money for two important charities.

We are actively looking for companies and partners who want to contribute exceptional products, experiences, hospitality, travel, dining, art, wine, fashion, automotive, yachting and other luxury opportunities to the 2026 auction.

It doesn't necessarily have to be a €5,000 product.

It could be something unique that has a high perceived value because it gives someone access to an experience they simply cannot buy in the normal way.

Finally, what does “turning luxury into charity” mean to you?

That phrase has always summed up the gala for me.

We are fortunate to live and work in a world where exceptional experiences are available to us.

The idea is to take some of that luxury and turn it into something positive.

Our guests enjoy an extraordinary evening. Our partners receive exposure and relationships. The successful bidders receive something memorable.

And two important Monaco charities receive much-needed support.

That is the real purpose of the auction.

The 2026 Royal Charity Gala

The Club Vivanova 2026 Royal Charity Gala takes place on Saturday 28 November 2026 at the Fairmont Monte Carlo Grand Salon, under the High Patronage and Presence of H.S.H. Princess Stéphanie of Monaco.

The evening will feature Champagne, a five-course gourmet dinner, premium international wines, the ALTER Designs fashion presentation by Pauline Ducruet, live entertainment, the charity auction officiated by Sheriff Thomas Lefevre and a midnight DJ after-party.

The auction will benefit Fight Aids Monaco and Écoute Cancer Réconfort.

We are actively looking for companies to donate exceptional auction lots.

Companies interested in donating an auction lot or discussing a partnership can contact Club Vivanova through the gala website.

Caribbean Dreams: Island Hopping in the World's Favourite Yacht Charter Destination

Caribbean Dreams: Island Hopping in the World's Favourite Yacht Charter Destination

There are few places where luxury yacht charter feels so perfect as the Caribbean and the Bahamas. Endless turquoise water, powder-soft beaches, colourful island cultures and consistently warm weather have made this one of the world's most desirable cruising grounds for decades.

With more than 7,000 islands, the greatest appeal lies in its diversity, making every charter different. One week might be spent discovering hidden coves, swimming with turtles and dining barefoot on deserted beaches. The next could revolve around glamorous beach clubs, Michelin-worthy cuisine and some of the most exclusive parties anywhere in the world.

Whether you are chartering for the first time or returning to explore somewhere new, the Caribbean rewards visitors with sunshine, adventure and so much more.

Two remarkable cruising grounds

Although often grouped together, the Bahamas and the Caribbean each offer a distinctly different style of charter.

The Bahamas are defined by shallow water in every imaginable shade of blue. Here, the Exumas are the undisputed stars of the region, where hundreds of cays are scattered across impossibly clear seas. Days here are wonderfully unhurried: snorkelling over coral reefs, visiting the famous swimming pigs, paddleboarding across calm lagoons or enjoying lunch anchored off a sandbar that disappears beneath the tide.

“The Exumas are one of the very few places on earth that look exactly like the best brochure photos once you arrive,”says Nicolas Benazeth, CharterWorld's Director of Charter. “Pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and easy cruising distances – it’s picture-perfect.”

Further south, the Caribbean introduces something entirely different, where every island has its own personality.

Antigua remains one of the region's great yachting capitals, with its historic Nelson's Dockyard, lively English Harbour and 365 beaches—reputedly one for every day of the year. It is also home to the prestigious Antigua Charter Yacht Show and provides the perfect starting point for exploring the eastern Caribbean.

Saint Lucia captivates with its dramatic Pitons rising straight from the sea, volcanic mud baths and lush rainforest interiors, while Barbados combines elegant west coast resorts with exceptional restaurants, vibrant rum bars and stylish beach clubs that keep the atmosphere lively long after sunset.

The British Virgin Islands: made for yacht charter

Ask experienced captains where they most enjoy cruising and the British Virgin Islands frequently top the list. Short cruising distances, protected anchorages and reliable trade winds make the BVIs one of the easiest and most enjoyable destinations to explore by yacht.

Spend an afternoon snorkelling through the spectacular caves at The Baths on Virgin Gorda, where giant granite boulders create natural pools and hidden passages. Anchor at Jost Van Dyke for a relaxed lunch before enjoying a famous Painkiller cocktail at the legendary Soggy Dollar Bar, or continue to Norman Island, believed to have inspired Robert Louis Stevenson's Treasure Island, where sea caves and vibrant reefs provide some of the Caribbean's best snorkelling.

For those seeking quieter moments, Anegada offers miles of uncrowded white sand beaches, excellent lobster restaurants and some of the region's healthiest coral reefs, while Cooper Island is ideal for diving, paddleboarding and enjoying spectacular sunsets from the deck.

The islands are close enough for spontaneous adventures and different enough to encourage visitors to explore further.

Celebrate New Year where the world arrives by yacht

If there is one event that defines the Caribbean charter season, it is New Year's Eve in St Barts. For one unforgettable week, the harbour at Gustavia becomes one of the most glamorous anchorages anywhere in the world, filled with some of the world's finest superyachts. International celebrities, yacht owners and discerning travellers gather to celebrate against a backdrop of designer boutiques, exceptional restaurants and legendary beach clubs including Nikki Beach and Shellona.

As midnight approaches, fireworks light up the harbour while yachts celebrate beneath tropical skies—an atmosphere unlike anywhere else on the charter calendar. Unsurprisingly, the finest yachts are often reserved more than a year in advance for this iconic week.

Choosing your perfect yacht

The Caribbean offers one of the widest selections of charter yachts anywhere in the world. Motor yachts of all sizes provide effortless island hopping together with amenities ranging from water’s edge beach clubs, spas, deck cinemas and always an impressive collection of water toys. Elegant sailing yachts offer a slower and quieter pace, capturing the gentle trade winds which deliver visitors to peaceful coves. Luxury catamarans are as popular as ever thanks to their generous living spaces and ability to anchor close to beaches inaccessible to larger yachts.

Finding the right charter vacation is about far more than the yacht’s size and amenities or even the destination. The personality of the crew, the chef's culinary style and the captain's local knowledge are all vital pieces of the perfect charter. An experienced charter broker understands these details, matching guests with a yacht that feels perfectly suited to the way they like to travel.

For family gatherings or festive escapes, smaller catamarans such as EVENSTAR and HUNTRESS continue to prove popular and are a firm favourite of CharterWorld broker Hadley Albanese.

“I would pick EVENSTAR or HUNTRESS for a Christmas or New Year charter with family and friends. I know their crews well, and the charters they deliver are some of the most memorable,” she comments.

Every day brings something new

Life on board rarely follows a schedule. Breakfast overlooking a deserted bay may be followed by paddleboarding through crystal-clear water, diving colourful reefs or exploring charming waterfront villages ashore. Lunch could be freshly caught lobster served on the aft deck before an afternoon enjoying seabobs, e-foils, wakeboards or simply relaxing with a cocktail while the yacht cruises towards its next anchorage.

Meanwhile, the crew work quietly behind the scenes—preparing elegant tablescapes, launching tenders, organising beach picnics and ensuring every detail feels seamless. Their local knowledge often leads to the moments guests remember most: a hidden beach reached only by tender, the perfect sunset anchorage or a family-run restaurant that never appears in guidebooks.

This freedom is perhaps what continues to make the Caribbean and The Bahamas so special, with no two islands feeling the same and no two itineraries being identical. Whether celebrating New Year in glamorous St Barts, exploring the iconic anchorages of the British Virgin Islands or drifting between the impossibly blue waters of the Exumas, few destinations offer such a perfect combination of adventure, privacy and relaxed luxury.

It is little wonder the Caribbean remains the destination that so many charter guests return to year after year.

Discover more at CharterWorld

When Control Becomes a Blind Spot: Why Leaders Need to Anticipate Risk

When Control Becomes a Blind Spot: Why Leaders Need to Anticipate Risk

The higher the level of responsibility, the greater the temptation to underestimate risk.

People who have led, decided, and navigated complex situations successfully for many years naturally develop a strong confidence in their ability to remain in control. Yet that very confidence can become a blind spot.

I recently exchanged with a security organisation specialising in the protection of high-level individuals. What struck me was how often even highly exposed individuals underestimate the risks they, their reputation, or their families may face—precisely because potential threats often develop quietly and remain invisible for a long time.

I see a similar dynamic in the professional environment.

Problems rarely begin at the moment they become visible. Critical situations often develop gradually, below the threshold of attention. Meanwhile, the system continues to function. Decisions are made, businesses continue to operate, and responsibility is carried. This can easily create the perception: I have this under control.

But control over the day-to-day does not necessarily mean control over developments taking shape in the background.

At the highest level, therefore, the ability to anticipate matters as much as the ability to respond.

The question is not only:

How well can I handle a crisis?

It is also: How early can I recognise that one is developing?

In my work, I help leaders identify the dynamics that may remain invisible while they are still operating successfully—before an emerging risk becomes an actual threat.

Sometimes, the most important risks are the ones we have not yet recognised.

Praxis Dr. med. Siegrun Maas GmbH
Haldenstrasse 5 
CH-8700 Küsnacht, Switzerland

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Luxury Real Estate in Greece: Paulina Billiri on Investing in the Athens Riviera

Luxury Real Estate in Greece: Paulina Billiri on Investing in the Athens Riviera
Paulina Billiri - CEO “PAULINA BILLIRI Luxury Real Estate”

With a distinguished 25-year career in luxury real estate, Paulina Billiri has established herself as one of Greece’s most respected and accomplished luxury property advisors. As the founder of Paulina BILLIRI Luxury Real Estate, she has built her reputation on landmark high-value transactions across the Athens Riviera, representing Greek and international investors, shipowners, entrepreneurs, prominent figures from the worlds of art and sports, as well as members of the Greek diaspora investing in their homeland—all with the utmost discretion. Combining in-depth market expertise, a powerful international network, and extensive experience in confidential off-market transactions, she has built enduring relationships founded on trust, integrity, and exceptional personal service.

What was the vision that inspired you to begin your career?

From the very beginning, I understood that success in luxury real estate is about far more than bringing a buyer and a seller together. The true role of a trusted advisor is to guide, protect, and create lasting value for each client. My vision was to establish a company founded on trust, expertise, honesty, and long-term relationships. I have never believed in transactional business. I have always believed in relationships built with consistency and integrity—relationships that stand the test of time.

What do you consider the greatest asset you have gained over these years?

Without hesitation—the people. The majority of our clients come through referrals from people who placed their trust in us many years ago. Today, we have the privilege of working with the second generation of many of those same families, and that is the greatest reward I could ever receive. Trust cannot be bought. It is earned every single day through consistency, discretion, and genuine respect for those who choose to place their confidence in you.

You have managed numerous high-value transactions. What does such a collaboration require?

Discretion is the foundation of every successful partnership. Our clients are not simply searching for a property.

They seek an advisor who will safeguard their interests, respect their privacy, and guide them responsibly throughout every stage of the process.

I have had the privilege of representing Greek and international investors, shipowners, entrepreneurs, and high-profile individuals.

In every one of these relationships, confidentiality has always been a non-negotiable principle.

You specialize in off-market transactions. What does that mean in practice?

Many of the market’s most exceptional properties are never publicly listed. Off-market transactions are built entirely on trusted relationships cultivated over many years. The true value of a luxury real estate advisor lies not only in knowing the property but in understanding the people behind it—their aspirations, their needs, and knowing how to bring the right parties together at precisely the right moment.

“In the world of luxury real estate, trust is the greatest asset”

What profile of buyer is drawn to the Athens Riviera?

The Athens Riviera has become one of Europe’s most desirable destinations for luxury living. We work with investors from the United States, the United Kingdom, Switzerland, France, Germany, the Middle East, as well as Greeks living abroad. Most are looking for an exceptional quality of life, privacy, security, refined aesthetics, world-class infrastructure, and properties that retain their long-term value.

Travel and continuous education play an important role in your life.

Absolutely. I believe that a luxury real estate advisor should never stop learning. I regularly travel to the world’s leading luxury real estate destinations, attend international exhibitions, conferences, and executive education programs because I consider knowledge to be the most valuable investment any professional can make. Exposure to different markets and investment cultures enables me to better understand the expectations of international clients and deliver services that meet the highest global standards.

What makes a property truly exceptional?

A property’s uniqueness is not defined solely by its value or location. A truly exceptional residence combines outstanding architecture, superior craftsmanship, privacy, unobstructed views, functionality, and timeless appeal. Properties of this caliber are rare, which is precisely why they continue to appreciate in value over time.

How do you see the future of the luxury real estate market?

I am extremely optimistic. Greece—and particularly the Athens Riviera—has firmly established itself as one of the world’s premier destinations for luxury residential investment. Large-scale developments, state-of-the-art marinas, significant infrastructure investments, and growing international demand are creating remarkable opportunities for the years ahead.

How do you define true luxury?

Luxury is quality of life. It is not about displaying wealth.

It is about living in a home that reflects who you are; a place where you feel secure and at peace; the time you dedicate to the people you love; a journey that broadens your horizons; or a work of art that inspires you. True luxury is the freedom to choose the life you want to live.

The second generation is preparing to join the family business. What does that mean to you?

It is both a joyful milestone and a great responsibility. The next generation brings fresh ideas, contemporary expertise, and a new perspective. When these qualities are combined with the experience, values, and trusted relationships we have built over the past 25 years, they create a powerful foundation for the future. I believe the greatest achievement of any family business is its ability to evolve without ever losing its identity.

If you had to summarize your philosophy in one sentence, what would it be?

I would summarize it in a single word: Trust. Homes change hands, markets evolve, but relationships built on honesty, expertise, and mutual respect last a lifetime. To me, that is the true essence of luxury real estate.

*This interview is featured in the new issue of Volta Magazine and was conducted by Fotini Androulaki.

VOLTA goes beyond traditional magazine stands, finding its way into the lounges of Greece’s most prestigious 5-star hotels, elite clubs such as the Ecali Club, Amarousi Equestrian Club, and the Shipowners Club, and high-end yachting and marine venues. In addition, the magazine’s digital issues reach business circles in New York and Boston, reflecting its status as a publication for the global elite.

Through VOLTA, readers step into a world of the art of living, where every page serves as an invitation to indulge in the exceptional.

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Architectural Project Stages in France: A Complete Guide to ESQ, AVP, Building Permits, PRO & DCE

Architectural Project Stages in France: A Complete Guide to ESQ, AVP, Building Permits, PRO & DCE

Even for French clients, it is not always obvious what an architect in France actually does and how the process works from start to finish. In France, an architect’s responsibilities are structured according to the different stages of an architectural project. Knowing these stages will help you understand exactly what to expect from your architect at each step, and which phases are essential for your specific project.

Broadly, these stages can be grouped into three main categories:

·       Pre-design services 

·       Design services 

·       Construction-related services 

Pre-design Services for Architectural Projects in France

Measured Survey of the Existing Building (Relevé d’état des lieux – REL)

This stage is essential if your project involves an existing building, such as a villa renovation or a barn conversion into a luxury dwelling. During this phase, the architect conducts precise measurements and produces detailed plans of the current structure, which serve as the foundation for all subsequent design work.

By starting with an accurate measured survey, the architect ensures that the design solutions are both feasible and tailored to the existing conditions, avoiding surprises during construction.

Feasibility Study (Étude de faisabilité – FAISA)

A feasibility study is essential if you want to ensure that your project is viable on a specific site before starting the design process. This step is particularly important when considering the purchase of a plot or an existing building for construction or renovation, and you need to assess what is possible or estimate the potential habitable area you could create.

During this stage, the architect carefully analyzes your program, visits the site, and reviews all relevant information: planning regulations, natural hazards, topography, and other constraints. Based on this analysis, the architect produces plans, sketches, and diagrams that clearly communicate the feasibility of your project.

By conducting a feasibility study, you gain a clear understanding of the opportunities and limitations of your site, allowing informed decisions before any design work begins.

Need help with a measured survey or a feasibility study for your project in France? Contact DN Architectes for expert guidance.

Design services in France

Draft design (Esquisse – ESQ)

During the draft design stage, the architect presents the first concepts of your project, usually in the form of sketches and preliminary plans. Multiple design options are often proposed to help clarify your needs and define the project’s overall direction.

Overall Design of the Project (Avant-projet - AVP)

In the Overall Design (AVP) phase, the architect finalizes the building’s dimensions and appearance, presents the selected design solutions, and determines the surface areas and materials for all program elements. At this stage, the architect ensures that the estimated construction cost aligns with the client’s budget.

By carefully developing both the draft (ESQ) and overall design (AVP), the architect ensures that your project is aesthetically refined, functionally optimized, and financially controlled. While some architectural agencies in France skip this stage, at DN Architectes we consider the AVP phase essential. It allows us to verifycompliance with the budget and anticipate potential technical issues before submitting the building permit application, avoiding costly or time-consuming modifications later.

Planning and Zoning Application Package (Demande de permis de construire - DPC)

If your project requires submitting an urban planning application (such as a preliminary declaration or a building permit), this service is carried out by the architect. For more details about different types of planning permissions in France, see our article: Building Permit in France vs Déclaration Préalable: Which Planning Permission Do You Need?

During this stage, the architect prepares and signs all graphic documents and written materials required for the application. While the client is theoretically responsible for submitting the documents to the urban planning authorities, at DN Architectes, the architect handles the submission on the client’s behalf, ensuring a smoother and more reliable process.

Detailed Design (PRO)

During the Detailed Design (PRO) stage, the client validates the nature and characteristics of all materials and equipment to be used in the project.

The architect produces comprehensive plans, sections, and elevations, along with detailed specifications describing the scope of work, materials, and quality standards. This ensures that every aspect of the project is clearly defined before moving forward to the construction phase, reducing risks and ensuring that the final outcome meets both design intentions and client expectations.

Construction-related architectural services in France

Tendering and Contractor Selection (Dossier de consultation des entreprises – DCE)

If you haven’t yet selected a construction company, the tendering stage is crucial for choosing the best contractors to bring your project to life.

As explained in our article Architect, Maître d’Œuvre, Interior Designer, Builder… Who Does What in France? architects in France cannot have financial ties to construction companies, ensuring complete independence and objectivity when selecting contractors.

During the tendering phase, the client, with the architect’s guidance, prepares a list of contractors to be consulted. The architect compiles all project documents required for the consultation, conducts a comparative analysis of the contractors’ bids, and prepares a detailed report. Based on this analysis, the architect proposes a shortlist of companies that could be selected to carry out the project.

This process guarantees a transparent and well-informed selection of contractors, giving you confidence that your project will be executed with both quality and efficiency.

Approval of Execution Documents (Visa)

In France, the execution studies—detailed plans showing how every element of the project will be constructed—are generally produced by the contractors.

The architect’s role at this stage is to review and approve these execution documents, ensuring they are fully compliant with the overall design project previously developed. This verification step is essential to maintain the design intent, quality standards, and functional requirements throughout construction.

Construction Supervision (DET)

During the Construction Supervision (DET) phase, the architect organizes and leads site meetings, preparing written minutes that are distributed to the contractors, the client, and any other relevant parties. The architect closely monitors the progress of the works and verifies that they comply with the contractual documents, ensuring that the project is executed according to the approved design and quality standards.

At DN Architectes, site meetings are typically held once a week, allowing for continuous oversight and proactive management of any issues that may arise.

Another key responsibility of the architect during this phase is to review and verify the contractors’ invoices, ensuring that payments correspond to the works actually completed and comply with the contractual agreements.

As-Built Documentation (DOE)

Once the building is handed over, the contractors are required to provide as-built documentation detailing:

·       How the building was actually constructed – between the start of construction and handover, there are often adjustments and refinements compared to the original plans.

·       How to operate installed systems and equipment, such as home automation, heating systems, or special finishes like natural stone or glass.

The architect compiles all the as-built plans, manuals, and documentation provided by the contractors into a complete and organized set. This ensures that the client has a clear reference for the building’s construction and operation, supporting maintenance, future renovations, or technical interventions.

Architectural project stages in France : Which stages do you need?

Not every project requires all of the phases described above. Depending on your specific needs, you may only require pre-design services, or in other cases, only design services.

If you are unsure about which stages are necessary for your project in France, feel free to contact DN Architectes. Our team of experienced architects will help you determine the appropriate scope of services to ensure your project is efficient, compliant, and aligned with your vision.

 
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Raise a Glass to Brain Health: The Power of Anthocyanins in Wine Grapes

Raise a Glass to Brain Health: The Power of Anthocyanins in Wine Grapes

How Vitis vinifera, Red Wine Grapes and Anthocyanins May Support Cognitive Health and Healthy Ageing

For centuries, the grape (Vitis vinifera) has been celebrated for producing some of the world's finest wines. Today, modern nutritional science is revealing another remarkable characteristic of this extraordinary fruit. Beyond its contribution to winemaking, wine grapes are naturally rich in anthocyanins—powerful plant compounds that are attracting increasing attention for their potential role in supporting brain health, memory and healthy ageing.

While no single food or beverage can prevent cognitive decline, a growing body of research suggests that diets rich in anthocyanin-containing fruits, including red and black wine grapes, may help protect the brain from oxidative stress, improve blood flow and support cognitive performance.

For wine lovers, it's yet another reason to appreciate the remarkable qualities of Vitis vinifera.

What Are Anthocyanins?

Anthocyanins are naturally occurring polyphenol antioxidants belonging to the flavonoid family. They are responsible for the deep red, purple and blue colours found in many fruits and vegetables, including:

Red wine grapes (Vitis vinifera)

Blueberries

Blackberries

Blackcurrants

Cherries

Elderberries

Purple plums

Red cabbage

Purple sweet potatoes

These vibrant pigments do far more than provide colour. Within plants, they protect against environmental stress. Within the human body, they appear to help defend cells against oxidative damage and chronic inflammation, two important factors associated with ageing and neurodegenerative disease.

Why Brain Health Matters More Than Ever

The brain accounts for only around 2% of body weight, yet consumes approximately 20% of the body's oxygen. This high metabolic demand makes brain tissue particularly vulnerable to oxidative stress throughout life.

Scientists believe anthocyanins may help support brain health by:

Neutralising harmful free radicals.

Reducing chronic inflammation.

Supporting healthy blood vessels.

Improving cerebral blood flow.

Protecting neurons from oxidative damage.

Supporting communication between brain cells.

Research has also shown that certain anthocyanin metabolites are capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier, allowing them to interact directly with brain tissue and influence pathways involved in learning and memory.

The Remarkable Benefits of Vitis Vinifera

When discussing anthocyanins, few fruits are as fascinating as the European wine grape (Vitis vinifera).

The skins of red and black wine grapes contain a unique combination of naturally occurring polyphenols, including:

Anthocyanins
Resveratrol
Quercetin
Catechins
Proanthocyanidins

Rather than acting independently, these compounds work together within what nutrition scientists describe as the food matrix, where multiple naturally occurring phytochemicals may provide greater biological benefits than isolated supplements.

This makes whole grapes—and grape-derived foods—a particularly valuable source of dietary polyphenols.

What Does the Research Say?

Scientific interest in anthocyanins has accelerated significantly over the past decade.

Clinical studies have investigated whether regular consumption of anthocyanin-rich foods may influence cognitive function, with encouraging results.

Research suggests anthocyanins may contribute to improvements in:

Memory performance
Attention and concentration
Executive function
Processing speed
Learning ability
Mental flexibility

Some studies have also demonstrated improved blood flow to areas of the brain associated with memory and decision-making after consuming anthocyanin-rich foods.

Although researchers agree that further long-term clinical trials are needed, current evidence supports including anthocyanin-rich fruits as part of a healthy dietary pattern.

Does Red Wine Contain Anthocyanins?

Yes—but context is important.

Anthocyanins are concentrated in the skins of red wine grapes, where they provide the beautiful ruby and purple colours that distinguish red wines.

During red wine production, extended skin contact allows many of these naturally occurring compounds to be extracted into the wine.

However, the health benefits associated with grapes should not be viewed as a reason to increase alcohol consumption. Excessive alcohol intake carries well-established health risks that outweigh any potential benefits.

For those who enjoy wine, moderation remains key, and the greatest nutritional benefits continue to come from consuming a balanced diet rich in colourful fruits and vegetables.

Building a Brain-Healthy Diet

One of the simplest ways to increase anthocyanin intake is by regularly including naturally colourful foods in your meals.

Excellent sources include:

Red and black wine grapes
Blueberries
Blackberries
Blackcurrants
Cherries
Purple figs
Red cabbage
Purple carrots
Purple sweet potatoes
Black rice

Nutrition experts consistently recommend obtaining polyphenols through whole foods rather than relying exclusively on supplements.

Wine, Wellness and the Mediterranean Lifestyle

The traditional Mediterranean lifestyle has long been associated with healthy ageing, combining fresh seasonal produce, olive oil, fish, nuts, whole grains and abundant fruits and vegetables.

Within this dietary pattern, grapes—and moderate wine consumption with meals for those who choose to drink—have formed part of a broader culture that values balance, quality and conviviality.

It is this overall lifestyle, rather than any single ingredient, that appears to provide many of its long-term health benefits.

The Club Vivanova Perspective

At Club Vivanova, wine has always represented far more than what's in the glass. It reflects craftsmanship, gastronomy, culture, friendship and shared experiences.

It is fascinating that the same grape responsible for many of the world's finest wines may also provide naturally occurring anthocyanins and other polyphenols that continue to intrigue scientists studying healthy ageing and cognitive wellbeing.

Whether enjoyed fresh from the vineyard, as part of a colourful Mediterranean diet or responsibly as a fine wine, Vitis vinifera remains one of nature's most remarkable fruits.

So, the next time you raise a glass, remember that behind every exceptional wine lies an extraordinary grape—one whose story continues to evolve through both centuries of winemaking tradition and the latest advances in nutritional science.

Disclaimer

This article is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Research into anthocyanins and cognitive health is ongoing. While studies suggest promising associations, no food or beverage can prevent or cure neurological disease. If you have concerns about your health or diet, consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Support Fight Aids Monaco & Écoute Cancer Réconfort - Donate an Exclusive Auction Lot to the 2026 Royal Charity Gala

Donate an Exclusive Auction Lot to the 2026 Royal Charity Gala

Support Fight Aids Monaco and Écoute Cancer Réconfort Under the High Patronage and Presence of H.S.H. Princess Stéphanie of Monaco

On Saturday 28th November 2026, Club Vivanova will proudly host its annual 2026 Royal Charity Gala at the prestigious Fairmont Monte Carlo, bringing together an exceptional international audience for one of Monaco's most distinguished evenings of philanthropy, luxury and business networking.

Held Under the High Patronage and Presence of H.S.H. Princess Stéphanie of Monaco, the 2026 Royal Charity Gala supports two remarkable charities close to Her Serene Highness's heart - Fight Aids Monaco and Écoute Cancer Réconfort - with 100% of all auction proceeds donated directly to the charities and shared equally between them.

Help Make a Difference

One of the highlights of the evening is the Royal Charity Auction, featuring an exceptional collection of luxury experiences, fine wines, jewellery, watches, exclusive travel, art, fashion, hospitality packages and once-in-a-lifetime opportunities, generously donated by leading international brands and private supporters.

Club Vivanova is now inviting luxury brands, hotels, restaurants, wineries, private companies and individuals to support this year's gala by donating an exclusive auction lot.

Every donation helps raise vital funds while demonstrating a shared commitment to philanthropy, community and giving back.

Exceptional Exposure for Your Brand

In appreciation of your generosity, every auction donor receives a comprehensive promotional package before, during and after the event, including:

• Dedicated feature in the official Royal Charity Gala Auction Catalogue

• Logo placement on the official gala photocall backdrop

• Recognition on the Royal Charity Gala Partners page

• A dedicated editorial feature in the Club Vivanova Magazine

• Promotion across Club Vivanova's international newsletters and social media platforms

• Recognition during the live charity auction

This unique combination of live event exposure and long-term digital promotion offers exceptional visibility within Monaco's international business and luxury community while supporting two outstanding charitable organisations.

Seeking Exceptional Auction Lots

We are currently seeking donations with a recommended retail value of proposed €5,000 or more, although contributions of all values are sincerely appreciated. Selected donations may also be combined into curated luxury auction experiences.

Suitable auction lots include:

• Luxury travel and hospitality experiences

• Private yacht and villa stays

• Fine wines, Champagne and rare spirits

• Gourmet dining experiences

• Luxury watches and jewellery

• Fashion and designer accessories

• Contemporary art and sculpture

• Wellness and lifestyle experiences

• Sporting and VIP hospitality packages

• Exclusive money-can't-buy experiences

An Evening of Purpose, Prestige & Philanthropy

Now recognised as one of Monaco's leading charitable events, the Club Vivanova 2026 Royal Charity Gala brings together entrepreneurs, business leaders, philanthropists and luxury brands from around the world for an unforgettable evening celebrating generosity, elegance and meaningful connections.

By donating an auction lot, your business becomes part of an initiative that not only raises essential funds for charity but also showcases the very best of international luxury, craftsmanship and hospitality.

Become Part of the 2026 Royal Charity Gala

If you would like to donate an auction lot or discuss how your brand can become involved, we would be delighted to hear from you.

Together, we can create another extraordinary evening of fundraising while making a lasting difference to the lives of those supported by Fight Aids Monaco and Écoute Cancer Réconfort.

To donate an auction lot or explore partnership opportunities, please contact Bradley Mitton at Club Vivanova today.

Learn more about the 2026 Royal Charity Gala

Luxury St Tropez Villa with Panoramic Sea Views, Private Pool & Riviera Living

Luxury St Tropez Villa with Panoramic Sea Views, Private Pool & Riviera Living

Perched above Sainte-Maxime with sweeping views across the bay to Saint-Tropez, this recently refurbished luxury villa offers the ultimate French Riviera escape — combining privacy, effortless elegance and direct access to the coast’s most iconic destinations.

This incredible villa sits on a hillside above St. Maxime, its bay unfurling below in silver and blue, with far-reaching views across the water to St. Tropez. St. Maxime's own shops, restaurants and beach bars are a short stroll away, yet the setting feels entirely private - and when St. Tropez calls, a 15-minute ferry with Les Bateaux Verts, running every twenty minutes, carries you straight into its harbour. Four floors, linked by a private lift, offer plenty of room for a family reunion or a group of friends.

The garden climbs through terraces of Mediterranean colour, with a pergola, a gazebo and a boules court for lazy afternoons. At its centre sits a generous pool, heatable when needed, alongside its own pool house, complete with kitchen, fireplace and dining area, perfect for long lunches drifting into evening cocktails.

Inside, a dramatic entrance hall and sweeping staircase open onto terraces with far-reaching views across the bay - come September and October, you couldn't ask for a better seat for the regattas. A private cinema, gym and games room give the lower level its own pulse. Every room feels made for living well.

Eight bedrooms offer privacy throughout, with room for sixteen guests in total.

St. Maxime is lively right through the season, its waterfront café tables and sailboats as much a fixture in August as in the softer autumn light, when the crowds thin and the old town's markets settle into a quieter rhythm. Across the water, St. Tropez peaks in August before easing into a golden autumn of its own - the markets at Place des Lices running all season, the coves warm for swimming well into October, the evenings always ending in rosé and candlelight along the harbour. Whether by the pool in August's full heat or catching the regattas from the terrace in autumn, this villa offers a proper sense of arrival, right at the heart of the season.

Stay with us, and no request is too extravagant: St Tropez Views reflects the same lifestyle of quiet, considered luxury across every destination we call our own.

Available 21 July – 1 August. Call 020 7692 4092 for more details.

Activate Your Brand During Monaco Yacht Show Week . The Ultimate Networking Experience

Activate Your Brand During Monaco Yacht Show Week 2026: The Ultimate Luxury Business Networking Experience in Monaco

Connect with Global Entrepreneurs, Investors, and Luxury Industry Leaders During Monaco Yacht Show Week

Monaco Yacht Show Week is one of the most influential gatherings on the international luxury calendar, bringing together yacht owners, entrepreneurs, investors, family offices, hospitality leaders, and high-net-worth individuals from around the world.

In 2026, Club Vivanova presents The Ultimate Mixer Monaco 2026, an exclusive business networking experience designed for professionals looking to expand their global connections, strengthen their brand presence, and engage with an elite international audience during this prestigious week.

Taking place on Thursday 24 September 2026 at 7pm at 99 Sushi Bar, Mareterra, Monaco, this exclusive evening will bring together entrepreneurs, business leaders, luxury brands, and international guests for an unforgettable night of networking, hospitality, and opportunity.

Why Monaco Yacht Show Week Is the Perfect Time to Activate Your Brand

Every year, Monaco becomes the meeting point for the world’s most influential luxury communities. From superyacht owners and private investors to luxury brands and international entrepreneurs, Monaco Yacht Show Week creates a unique environment where valuable relationships are formed.

For companies seeking premium visibility, this is more than an event — it is an opportunity to position your brand directly in front of a global audience.

Brand activation opportunities during Monaco Yacht Show Week can help you:

Increase international brand awareness
Build relationships with influential decision-makers
Create valuable business connections
Showcase products and services to a luxury audience
Generate media exposure and social engagement
Strengthen their position within the global luxury market

A Premium Networking Event in the Heart of Mareterra Monaco

Hosted at the prestigious 99 Sushi Bar, Mareterra, The Ultimate Mixer Monaco 2026 offers a sophisticated environment where business meets luxury lifestyle.

Guests will enjoy an evening of premium hospitality, meaningful conversations, and opportunities to connect with like-minded professionals across industries including:

Luxury real estate
Private aviation
Superyachts
Hospitality
Finance and investment
Fine wines and gastronomy
International entrepreneurship
Luxury brands and services

Whether you are expanding into new markets, seeking strategic partnerships, or simply looking to connect with an exceptional global network, this event provides the perfect platform.

Showcase Your Brand to an International Audience

Companies participating during Monaco Yacht Show Week benefit from the power of association with one of the world’s most prestigious luxury events.

Club Vivanova works with premium brands seeking creative opportunities to engage with an affluent and influential audience through:

Brand partnerships
Corporate hospitality
Product showcases
Networking experiences
VIP guest engagement
International visibility

Your brand deserves to be seen where global opportunities happen.

Join Monaco’s Premier Luxury Business Networking Event

The Ultimate Mixer Monaco 2026 is designed for those who value relationships, innovation, and international business opportunities.

Secure your place and become part of an exclusive Monaco Yacht Show Week experience connecting entrepreneurs, investors, and luxury professionals from around the world.

Thursday 24 September 2026 . 7pm
99 Sushi Bar, Mareterra Monaco

Activate Your Brand. Expand Your Network. Create Global Opportunities

Contact Club Vivanova today to discuss partnership opportunities, VIP invitations, and brand activation packages for Monaco Yacht Show Week 2026.

The Intersection of Italian Cinema and Luxury: An Executive Q&A with Marco Soriano

The Intersection of Italian Cinema and Luxury: An Executive Q&A on SORIANO's 2026 Film Debut & Docufilm ft. Arius Technology.

Independent cinema constantly seeks new ways to engage modern audiences without compromising artistic integrity. Many filmmakers struggle to integrate brand aesthetics naturally into their storytelling. Forced product placements often disrupt the narrative, leaving a gap where organic visual collaborations should exist.

To bridge this gap, a highly anticipated Italian independent film debuting in 2026 directly connects luxury innovation with emotional depth. Produced by Laura Tirassa and directed by Andrea Castoldi, the film features the on-screen debut of SORIANO motorcycles and its modern clothing line. In this interview, Marco Antonio Soriano shares how this unique partnership blends mechanical power with narrative storytelling and highlights the performance of rising star Denise Tantucci.

Soriano also reveals a second chapter of the collaboration, featuring Arius Technology in a docufilm about protecting global cultural heritage through technology and innovation. 

Q: The upcoming 2026 independent film marks SORIANO’s official debut in narrative cinema. What inspired the decision to bring your motorcycles and clothing line onto the big screen?

Marco Antonio Soriano: For us at SORIANO, stepping into narrative cinema was never about executing a traditional product placement. When Andrea Castoldi and Laura Tirassa approached us, we realized this was a unique opportunity to use our brand as a true storytelling device.

The inspiration to bring our motorcycles and apparel to the big screen boils down to a few core passions of mine:

• A Shared Vision of Reality: We saw this film as a mirror reflecting the struggles and innovations of our time. We didn't want to just slap a logo on a jacket or park a bike in the background; we wanted our engineering and aesthetic to be a living extension of the protagonist's journey.

• Embodying the SORIANO Ethos: When you see an absolute force like Denise Tantucci on screen, standing before a machine built for the future, she captures our spirit perfectly. The motorcycle isn't just a vehicle—it represents her steering her own destiny, adapting, and moving forward with purpose.

• Addressing the European Youth Exodus: This is perhaps the most profound inspiration for me. We are using this cinematic platform to shine a spotlight on the quiet crisis of our "brain drain." It breaks my heart to watch our brightest young minds pack up and leave our beautiful, historic towns for larger capitals because they feel the dynamic economy they need is missing at home. We wanted to ground this story in the very real, emotional conflict of a generation forced to choose between their roots and their potential.

• A Message of Defiance and Hope: Ultimately, our cinematic debut is a statement. By integrating our cutting-edge designs into the film and actively investing in the local creative economy, we are sending a clear, defiant message to our youth: The future does not have to be imported, and you do not have to leave home to find it. We can—and we will—build it right here.

Q: Integrating luxury brands into film requires a delicate balance. How does the bold aesthetic of SORIANO naturally complement the emotional depth of the story?

Marco Antonio Soriano: You are entirely right; there is a very delicate balance to strike. If not done with intention, a luxury brand can easily distract from the narrative rather than enhance it. For us, ensuring that SORIANO’s bold aesthetic naturally complemented the film’s emotional depth meant making our designs an active participant in the story rather than just a visual prop.

Here is how our aesthetic naturally intertwines with the emotional weight of the film:

• An Extension of the Protagonist’s Journey: We designed our integration so that our engineering and aesthetics serve as a physical manifestation of the main character's internal world. When you look at our motorcycles and apparel, you are seeing an extension of her personal journey, not just high-end set dressing.

• Visualizing Resilience and Destiny: Our brand's striking industrial design perfectly mirrors the modern, resilient imagery of the youth this film portrays. When Denise Tantucci's character stands before a machine built for the future, her boldness matches the machine’s. She isn't just sitting on a luxury bike; the aesthetic reinforces the emotional reality that she is actively steering her own destiny.

• A Symbol of Defiance and Hope: The emotional core of this film is the painful choice between staying in one's hometown or leaving for better opportunities. In this context, our bold designs become a statement of defiance. The motorcycle represents traditional freedom, certainly, but it also represents the tangible power to commute, connect, and drive meaningful change locally.

• Adapting with Purpose: When Denise is outfitted in our modern clothing line, it visually communicates a crucial narrative point: she isn't just surviving this quiet crisis of the youth exodus. She is adapting, evolving, and moving forward with profound purpose. The luxury and innovation of the brand highlight the exact kind of dynamic ecosystem we want our youth to know they can build right at home.

Q: Collaborating with producer Laura Tirassa and director Andrea Castoldi brings a specific vision to life. How did their approach align with the modern industrial artistry of your brand?

Marco Antonio Soriano: It was a remarkably seamless alignment from our very first conversation. When Andrea and Laura approached us, we realized almost immediately that their cinematic vision and our industrial philosophy were speaking the exact same language. They were not looking for superficial props, and we were not looking for traditional product placement.

Here is how their directorial and production approach perfectly aligned with our modern industrial artistry:

• A Commitment to Authenticity: Andrea and Laura wanted our engineering and aesthetic to be an active, living extension of the protagonist’s journey. This mirrored our own desire to ensure our brand is integrated organically, moving beyond just slapping a logo on a jacket or parking a motorcycle in the background.

• Fusing Tradition with Innovation: Their approach beautifully preserves traditional cinematic artistry while embracing new narratives. This is the exact blueprint of our purpose-driven manufacturing at SORIANO. Just as they blend classic storytelling with modern realities, we are deeply committed to marrying cutting-edge EV technology with traditional Italian craftsmanship.

• Reflecting Real-World Struggles: Their vision for the film was to create a mirror reflecting the realities, struggles, and innovations of our time—specifically the quiet crisis of the European youth exodus. This perfectly matched our brand’s core mission of using social and mechanical engineering to create ecosystems that make our youth want to stay.

• Championing the Local Creative Economy: By collaborating with these incredible independent filmmakers, their production approach aligned seamlessly with our philanthropic pillars. We both share a fundamental belief in injecting capital and resources into the local arts, proving that world-class cinema, much like world-class transportation and fashion, can be built right here in Italy without needing to export our talent.

Q: The film features rising star Denise Tantucci, known for balancing vulnerability with strength. How does her performance anchor the dynamic between speed and silence presented in the film?

Marco Antonio Soriano: Denise is, simply put, an absolute force on screen. The dynamic between speed and silence is central not only to the film’s emotional landscape but also to the very machinery she commands. Her ability to balance that vulnerability with immense strength is what grounds the entire narrative.

Here is how her performance anchors that profound dynamic:

• The Silence of the "Quiet Crisis": Denise brings a poignant vulnerability to the screen that captures what I call the "quiet crisis" of our time—the silent, heartbreaking exodus of our brightest young minds leaving their historic towns. The quieter moments in her performance reflect the deep, internal emotional conflict of a generation forced to choose between their roots and their potential.

• The Speed of Steering Her Destiny: Contrasting that quiet vulnerability is her undeniable strength. When you see her standing before a machine built for the future, she embodies the speed of progress and resilience. She isn't just passively riding a bike; she is actively and powerfully steering her own destiny, ready to take on the world.

• Mirroring the EV Ethos: The juxtaposition of speed and silence is also a direct reflection of our cutting-edge SORIANO EV motorcycles. They operate with silent electric precision, yet they deliver immense, raw power. Denise's character channels this exact energy. She represents a modern, resilient youth who can harness that quiet power to drive change and commute locally.

• Adapting with Purpose: Ultimately, her performance asks the heaviest questions of the film: Where is she going, and why does she have to leave? By balancing the quiet reflection of her circumstances with the fast-paced momentum of her journey, she shows us a protagonist who isn't just surviving. She is adapting, evolving, and moving forward with absolute purpose.

Q: You emphasize that Italy’s rich cinematic tradition does not fade, but evolves. How do you see this film setting a new standard for future collaborations between independent cinema and luxury brands?

Marco Antonio Soriano: I am thrilled you brought that up. The synergy we have found with Andrea and Laura goes far beyond a single narrative feature. We are already laying the groundwork for a highly anticipated docufilm with their production house that explores an entirely different, yet equally vital, form of cultural preservation.

Through our deep partnership with Arius Technology, where I serve as Global Ambassador and CEO for Europe, we are utilizing the world's most advanced 3D laser scanning systems to literally digitize the "DNA" of human history. This upcoming docufilm will chronicle our journey of creating flawless "Digital Twins" of priceless masterpieces.

Here is how our future with this production house and Arius Technology is taking shape:

• Global Preservation on Film: The docufilm will take audiences behind the scenes of how we are safeguarding human heritage. We are capturing every microscopic brushstroke and texture of masterpieces located in the most noticeable museums all over the world—such as our recent landmark digital preservation of Rome's Galleria Borghese.

• Securing Assets for Collectors and Institutions: Beyond public museums, the documentary will explore how this technology is becoming the new global standard for private collectors and major financial institutions. We are giving them the ultimate tool for forensic authentication, ensuring their most precious assets have an eternal, immutable backup.

• A Continuous Narrative of Innovation: Andrea and Laura understand that whether we are engineering EV motorcycles to empower the youth or using laser technology to save a Caravaggio, the core SORIANO ethos is the same: Innovation through Heritage. Their cinematic lens is the perfect vehicle to show the world how we are bridging 21st-century technology with classic artistry.

• Accessibility for All: Ultimately, the docufilm will highlight the democratization of high art. By creating ultra-fidelity E-Clones of these masterpieces, we can foster global, immersive exhibitions without ever risking the original works.

This docufilm represents the next chapter in our collaboration. We aren't just telling stories about the future anymore; we are actively documenting how we are securing the past for generations to come.

As audiences demand more authentic visual experiences, natural brand integration will become a crucial element of modern filmmaking. Collaborations like this preserve traditional cinematic artistry while introducing innovative aesthetics. This project establishes a clear blueprint for the future of European independent film.

About Arius Technology

Arius Technology, headquartered in Vancouver, Canada, and Milan, Italy, with offices in London and New York, is the leading innovator in high-resolution colour 3D scanning for the preservation, tokenisation, and reproduction of fine art. Originally designed to forensically scan the Mona Lisa, the technology has evolved to provide an immutable bridge between the Physical and Digital world.  Arius is utilised by leading museums and global art collectors to digitally safeguard works of art and make them accessible through digital archives, research platforms, and high-fidelity prints. Arius redefines how collectors, institutions, and the public experience and interact with cultural heritage in the 21st century.

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