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Byredo Is Now Open For business… in Seoul!

José Amorim

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22 May 2019

Reading Time: 5 minutes

Byredo’s first store in Korea will open in the heart of Seoul’s dynamic and fashionable Dosan Park. This will be the brand’s fifth international opening, following Stockholm, New York, London and Paris.

Gangnam Style

The new flagship store is located at 12 Dosan-daero in Gangnam-gu. This area is one of the 25 local government districts which make up the city of Seoul, South Korea. Gangnam literally means “South of the River”. Both the Greater Gangnam Area and Gangnam itself are widely known for its heavily concentrated wealth and very high standard of living, which has been compared to cities such as Beverly Hills, California.

Byredo New Store, Beautiful as Usual

The stand-alone building has been designed by Byredo’s founder Ben Gorham and Swedish architectural and design studio Halleroed. Both companies have already collaborated on two other stores: London and New York. Halleroed’s work is well known and each project requires a lot of research about the brand, its objectives but also the location and the environment in which the store will be located.

“I’m doing a lot of research for every project and brand and think a lot of what every specific project “is in need of”. Then I work with the visualization of it and also a lot with the details.” – Christian Halleröd

The facade consists of black bricks featuring traditional masonry detailing.
The bricks have become a recurring element at Byredo, representing the meticulous work of building a brand that will stand the test of time. The placement of repetitive windows stresses the interior’s focus on natural light which in turn forms a palette of natural tones contrasting with black and white detailing. Materials such as aluminium, Italian terrazzo, Nordic walnut and Alderwood all contribute to creating a refined experience, both familiar and new. A rock garden placed alongside the building’s exterior consisted of bonsai pine trees and grass reflects the store’s living and ever-changing nature.

Byredo Dosan Park will house the brand’s multiple categories within leather goods, fragrance, home and accessories along with a selection of unique objects curated specifically for the store. Each Byredo store is different as it matches the spirit of the location. Nevertheless, there are common values shared across locations about authenticity, essentiality and a very important focus on highly qualitative details.

Seoul is the Leading Fashion Capital of Asia

Byredo retail development strategy is very interesting as they choose the best cities and the best locations at the heart of trends. Opening a store in South Korea shows two main important points: First, Byredo has a strong ambition to become a global brand and second, it tackles a very important market, often trend-setter in the region.

Currently, Seoul is considered as the most trendy, influential city in all Asia. After K-Pop, came K-beauty and now we get K-Fashion. Very soon, Seoul will be considered as the leading fashion capital. One interesting indicator is the global success of the Seoul Fashion Week. Since its inception back in 2015, the fashion event became very popular in the country and captures hundreds of journalists and fashion professionals at every edition. Several fashion buyers for well-renowned department stores come to Seoul during fashion week in order to source new brands with a strong international appealing, Therefore there is a huge appetite for this city which makes the right choice for Byredo to install its new flagship store.

Byredo Launch Party: Happy People For A Happy Time

Every Byredo store opening event becomes a local major happening. Lead by Ben Gorham network of friends and friends of the brand, generally, the Byredo event becomes a happy place to be at. We still remember the London and Paris store openings. There were more happy faces and celebrities at the London and Paris openings than in many official fashion weeks post-show events. So PR and Events are driving forces for the brand.

In Seoul, the opening event was a blast. The brand and Ben Gorham made a very elegant and friendly gathering that brought many happy faces to the party. From top models like Kim Sung Hee, Kang So Young, IRENE, to singers like BOA and Beenjino or even actors like Hong Jong Hyun or Kang Seung Hyun…. it was a great success that will mark people’s mind.

Byredo is spreading the beauty of the brand to the world and the launch of this new flagship store in Seoul is anchoring the brand in a solid platform to all Asia. The brand’s ambition is to translate memories and emotions into products and experiences.
Byredo is reinventing the world of luxury through a new approach, where creation is led by emotions, expressing a full and limitless brand universe.
It conceives objects using the highest quality materials available, and high-end design details to fuel a renewed approach to modern luxury.

José Amorim
Information sourced by the author for luxuryactivist.com. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only.

5 Easy Ways to Add Luxury to Your Lifestyle

LuxuryActivist

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20 May 2019

2

Reading Time: 4 minutes

Close your eyes and think about your own definition of luxury life. Living a life filled with luxuries is a lifestyle many of us aspire to live, although it can have different meanings depending on our dreams. Perhaps it could be traveling the world visiting premium hotels, or wearing designer clothing and pampering ourselves with indulgent products?

While a glamorous lifestyle was once only associated with celebrities, it’s easier than we think to attain a life filled with luxury for ourselves. Without having to break the bank or aspire to have a celebrity status, here are six easy ways to bring a touch of luxe into our everyday lives.

1. Treat yourself to flowers:

Coming home to a bunch of scented, fresh-cut flowers situated in your home can instantly improve your mood. Not only do they look beautiful and add a pop of color to our homes, but they also give off memories of treats and occasions.

You can purchase flowers from supermarkets or florists at a range of different prices, and when looked after, they can last anything from 5-10 days. Why not treat yourself to a bunch every Sunday before the start of the week? This will give your home an elegant touch, and make you feel a little fancier.

2. Own a beautiful writing pen

There is no nicer feeling than picking up your pen to write your morning to-do list and noticing how luxe it is. By using a premium, high quality pen which may be sleek and minimal, or beautifully decorated, it will remind you of how special you are every day.

3. Subscribe to your favorite glossy magazines

In a world where we are constantly online, owning a brand new, glossy magazine can feel like a real treat. Flicking through the pages of a monthly fashion or interior magazine also reminds us of the waiting areas in important offices, or when at luxurious salons.

If you subscribe to a monthly subscription, it really will feel like a small present has arrived when you see the package with your name on.

4. Invest in everyday opulence

The way you dress and update your personal look can really make a difference to the type of life you feel you have. It can be unattainable to purchase designer handbags and shoes on a monthly basis, but you can invest in a number of staple items which give us those feelings or being a little special,

Start with a quality cashmere scarf, one which can act as a neck scarf in the winter months, yet can double up as a short pashmina to drape over your shoulders when the weather gets a little warmer. There is something about the touch of cashmere that personifies as expensive and special. Have a look at the selection on State Cashmere to start you off.

Accessories can also bring you those feelings of looking and feeling like a Queen. A sophisticated watch to glance at and a stylish handbag to hold your everyday items can also give you that instant feel of a luxurious life.

5. Look at holiday experiences

We can’t all jet off to the Bahamas every year, but thanks to sites such as Airbnb, it’s easier to have a staycation for various weekend breaks.

We now have access to some of the most deluxe loft apartments and country cottages, which are more affordable due to the flexibility of the site. By giving us access to these types of accommodation, the modern holiday experience has been revolutionized. You can easily feel like you are living like a king, at least for a couple of days!

Finally, once you’ve finished assembling your high-class outfit and booking your boutique apartment mini-break, think about the little ways you can keeping bring luxury into your life. Investing in a barrister style coffee machine so you can sip your frothy lattes every morning (without heading to Starbucks every day) will save you money in the long run, yet also give you that premium experience. There are so many little things you can do!

Carol
Information sourced by the author for luxuryactivist.com. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only.

Nespresso Reviving Origins: Rediscovering (Almost) Forgotten coffees

José Amorim

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18 May 2019

0

Reading Time: 4 minutes

nespresso-reviving-origins-coffee-program — © National Geographic Rena Effendi

Nespresso is launching REVIVING ORIGINS. It is a new initiative aimed at reintroducing coffee growing in areas where it is threatened. As part of the Nespresso AAA Program for Sustainable Quality, the company works with coffee growers in regions affected by conflicts, economic difficulties and ecological disasters.

This is part of Nespresso commitment to investing over CHF 500 million between 2014 and 2020 thanks to its programme “The Positive Cup”. It is a commitment to sustainable development in the world. Nespresso will invest CHF 10 million over the next five years to revitalize the coffee industry in some countries and promote rural economic development. This announcement comes with the launch of two “pure-origin” coffees from Eastern Zimbabwe and the Caquetá region of Colombia. These almost forgotten coffees are clearly unknown by the large audience of coffee-lovers and have truly almost disappeared in recent decades. With the Nespresso initiative and partnerships with local companies, coffee growers in these two regions are once again starting to ensure sustainable livelihoods and rebuilding the local economy, thus contributing to the development of their rural communities.

Tamuka mu Zimbabwe

Nespresso Reviving Origins: Rediscovering (Almost) Forgotten coffees 20 — © National Geographic Rena Effendi

Zimbabwe used to be a great producer of coffee. The entire production almost disappeared forever. At the end of the 1980s, coffee growers in Zimbabwe produced more than 15,000 tonnes of coffee. In the following years, production was virtually paralyzed due to climatic factors and economic instability. In 2017, production volumes had fallen to less than 500 tonnes.

In partnership with the international NGO TechnoServe, Nespresso worked with the local coffee growers’ community in Manicaland Province in eastern Zimbabwe to bring sustainable farming practices. The arrival of qualified trainers and new techniques enabled producers to deal with problems related to coffee processing and coffee management. This investment has produced a high quality Arabica coffee, available since May and for a limited period in 18 countries, including Switzerland.

Nespresso-zimbabwe-coffee-origins — © National Geographic Rena Effendi

With their cool temperatures, good rainfall, and rich soil, the lush valleys of Zimbabwe’s Eastern Highlands are well suited for growing arabica coffee. Honde Valley, in the Mutasa district, now has more than 300 active coffee farmers.

The Tamuka mu Zimbabwe has a complex fruity profile and a crisp, fresh acidity with notes of cranberries, blackcurrant and grapes. When adding milk, the coffee takes on a creamy and silky texture, making it ideal for the macchiato. The coffee is balanced, round and reveals slight hints of caramel when prepared with milk.

Esperanza de Colombia

Nespresso Reviving Origins: Rediscovering (Almost) Forgotten coffees 23 — © National Geographic Rena Effendi

Nespresso-Colombia-coffee-origins — © National Geographic Rena Effendi

Colombia has been under internal conflits for more than 50 years. All these conflicts pushed the coffee growers to abandon their land. Coffee cultivation had virtually disappeared from the Caquetá region of Colombia. Nespresso worked in partnership with local producers and the Colombian Coffee Producers Association to rebuild this economic sector. As part of the Nespresso AAA Program for Sustainable Quality, Nespresso’s agronomists provide training to coffee growers and share their expertise in sustainable farming practices, quality improvement, and environmental and water management.

Esperanza de Colombia is a sweet coffee with very little acidity. Perfectly balanced and round, it seduces by its aromas of yellow fruits and its light notes of cereals.

Nespresso and National Geographic

Nespresso has worked with National Geographic to document the impact of the Reviving Origins initiative in Zimbabwe and Colombia. They developed together the “Beyond the Bean” project. This project follows National Geographic photographer, Rena Effendi, across the globe to Zimbabwe, Colombia, Indonesia, Ethiopia and Guatemala to find the most inspiring and thought-provoking stories beyond the coffee beans. The results of this collaboration can be seen on the National Geographic website: www.nationalgeographic.com/beyond-the-bean

The Nespresso Sustainable Quality AAA Program

Launched in 2003, the Nespresso AAA Sustainable Quality™ Program is a quality coffee sourcing program, designed and implemented specifically for Nespresso, in collaboration with the Rainforest Alliance. Through long-standing partnerships with farmers, coffee suppliers and cooperatives, with support from NGOs, the program has evolved considerably over time. Sustainable farm management is still at its heart, but today it also focuses on community and landscape resilience, and the wider systemic challenges the sector faces.

Please check more information by visiting the Nespresso official website here: https://www.nespresso.com

José Amorim
Information sourced by the author for luxuryactivist.com. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only.

The Hottest Color Trends of 2019

LuxuryActivist

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17 May 2019

1

Reading Time: 3 minutes

When it comes to color in fashion, it’s fairly safe to say that all the prime colors make an appearance year after year. It is the shades that make a season, however, which is why you will see various shades that just seem to rule the runway year after year. There will always be pink, for example, but will it be more of a pastel, baby blush pink, or a vibrant millennial pink?

The color opportunities are endless, and the reason why all fashion-forward folk should follow what colors are trending at the moment is that shades come and go. If you love the latest red showcased on the catwalk, then you need to go out and invest in that shade because next season it might be a more plum red that rules the fashion world.

Without further ado, here are the hottest color trends of 2019 that you need to invest in before they leave.

1. Neon Green

Neon was possibly one of the biggest color trends of 2019, but the biggest and most popular of the neon’s on the catwalks was definitely green. Neon green is bright, loud, and the perfect way to rock your inner pop-punk princess you’ve been dying to let out. Pick up your favorite neon jacket and style it down with some of the more neutral colors of the season for a great look that will help you stand out.

2. Princess Blue

Pastels are a common occurrence for the SS shows, which is why we are in love with the deep princess blue that made waves. This magnificent color also compliments Turmeric, another color on this list, exceptionally well.

3. Ballet Pink

Pastels cannot be omitted from the list entirely, however, which is why one of our favorites to grace the SS19 shows was ballet pink. This soft, nude-toned plush was a welcome addition to the world of neutrals and can be paired with similar shades for an elegant monochrome look, or be used to tone down brighter colors we saw on the runways.

4. Living Coral

Moving on from the pastels is living coral, a beautiful shade between orange and pink that is an instant brightener to any outfit.

5. Fiesta Red

For a bright, intense red that you haven’t seen, turn to fiesta red. This color is exactly what it says on the tin, and is a passionate, exciting addition to your wardrobe and the perfect color for summertime fiestas. Not just for summer, however, this shade is ideal to brighten up an Autumn/Winter wardrobe, with the addition of a red arctic parka jacket from jack1t.com, for example, in your closet.

6. Turmeric

Turmeric is the new mustard, and great to pair with similar shades of browns and reds, or contrasted with bright blues.

7. Sweet Corn

For another neutral essential, turn to sweet corn this summer. This is a brighter natural than you are used to, and the perfect way to compliment the rest of colors this spring. The perfect way to add a touch of feminine romanticism to any outfit.

Prime colors may never leave, but the exact shades do. So if you love the look of sweet corn, or just must have the fiesta red, then head on out and invest in the pieces while they last.

Carol
Information sourced by the author for luxuryactivist.com. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only.

Look Luxurious Without Living It

LuxuryActivist

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17 May 2019

1

Reading Time: 4 minutes

Luxury, affluence, extravagance – whatever you want to call it, we all pine for it. It’s no secret that we all want the finest materials that life gives, whether it be the vehicles we drive, the house we live in, the garments we wear. These premium delights promise us comfort, that we could live and dress in the best way possible – if only we could afford them. What if I told you that it is possible? What if I said that you, anyone, everyone can afford to look the part of the lifestyle you want, no millionaire status required?

Know Where To Look

The high-end fashion of top market designer brands is in your reach, without sacrificing your life-savings. You don’t have to break your bank just to live and look luxurious, you just need to know where to look. With some easy browsing, you can find sites like www.modvisor.com, that give expertise in a wide range of luxury fashion brands within your financial reach. With a whole catalog of in-style designer possibilities, it’s easier to find the look you’re aiming for, tailored to your price range. It’s not always just inaccessible high-end brands like Gucci or Prada that produce great quality items. With the right source, you can be paired with up-and-coming boutiques with similar styles and care in their designs. Adventuring into a new avenue of fashion brands can grant you a unique, vogue image—sometimes that’s enough to give people the impression that you live in the lap of luxury.

Shop Smart, Look Rich

Many people assume you must be wealthy to wear high-end clothing items. Luxury clothing doesn’t just depend on sky-high costs. Rather, the magic is in the aura that the pieces emanate, the way it makes you feel, the quality of design. You can get all these things while staying on budget. Even the stylish streets of Paris, France have boutiques that provide resale designer clothing for less. Having a smart financial management plan can go a long way to achieve your luxurious look, like investing a few dollars every week into a budget for your fashion-buying needs.

Dress With Strategy

Another mistake people make is thinking you need to buy more to look more lavish, more upscale, just more. Luxury isn’t about how many items you own, but how you put pieces together. Buying a modest amount of clothing occasionally can go a long way, especially if you have an eye for matching up the right garments and accessories to create an elaborate ensemble. Have a few prominent luxury garments to serve as the focal points of your outfits, accentuating them with belts, jewelry, scarves, and other accessories. For example, a camel overcoat can make any basic fit look sophisticated.

Ways you can dress luxuriously:

Add heavy jewelry, even if faux, to give a hint of opulence to an otherwise everyday outfit
A couple of staple outerwear pieces, like a delicate pea-coat or a leather jacket, gives your look a classic finish
Wear the same color shoes as your bag to tie the whole look together
Investing in a pair of high-waist jeans right off the catwalk can be versatile and last you a long time

Only one percent of the population is extremely wealthy. These are the people who can actually, easily afford to buy high-end luxury items without batting an eye. These are the people who roam the city looking like they just left a fashion show. Let’s not forget that the rest of the ninety-nine percent of people do not have this lifestyle. Does that mean we can’t also look our best in our daily lives? We have endless opportunities to emulate high-fashion without selling our souls to debt. It just takes some smart searching, great price-hacking, money-management, and an eye for fashionable details. With these elements, anyone can look luxurious without living it.

Liz Becker
Information sourced by the author for luxuryactivist.com. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only.

Victorinox Alox Limited Edition 2019

Design

José Amorim

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16 May 2019

0

Reading Time: 2 minutes

Victorinox pursuits its path of creativity and innovation. In 2019, the Swiss company is launching a new limited edition to the Alox series. It is the fifth consecutive year in which Victorinox extends the range of Alox, this time with a Champagne-gold scales. The new trio is:

The small Classic 58mm
Midsized Cadet 84mm
Large Pioneer 94mm

The champagne-gold-hued Alox scales characterize this year’s collection. Stamped from aluminium, embossed and wrapped in a corrosive-resistant anodized oxide coating, they are as striking as they are durable. Indeed, when we talk about Alox scales, it is a true commitment to durability, strength and engineering. The anodic oxidation process creates an additional protective layer to prevent damage and corrosion.

The Alox series is music to Victorinox fans ears. It became a true iconic line over the years and it is now an annual appointment with the fans. From a functionality point of view, the three limited editions have everything you might need from a daily companion. Here is the description of the different variants with detailed specs:

ALOX CLASSIC LIMITED EDITION 2019 58MM

blade, small
scissors
nail file
screwdriver 2.5 mm
key ring

ALOX CADET LIMITED EDITION 2019 84MM

blade, large
can opener
screwdriver 3 mm
bottle opener
wire stripper
screwdriver 5 mm
nail file
nail cleaner
key ring

ALOX PIONEER LIMITED EDITION 2019 93MM

blade, large
reamer, punch
can opener
screwdriver 3 mm
bottle opener
wire stripper
screwdriver 5 mm
key ring

This new limited edition is definitely very elegant and allies functionality and design. Of course, these pocket knives are only available in 2019. Virtually indestructible, the Alox Limited Edition 2019 is meant for a lifetime of use. Victorinox utilizes its endless universe and heritage to reinvent the wheel of possibilities. Ever since Victorinox was established over 130 years ago, the company’s consistent focus has been on tradition, quality and innovation. The philosophy of the family company is based on solid values that ensure continuous growth.

José Amorim
Information sourced by the author for luxuryactivist.com. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only.

Visit Sistelo: The Hidden Gem, Made In Portugal – Travel guide

José Amorim

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5 May 2019

1

Reading Time: 4 minutes

Sistelo-Portugal-Confidential-travel-guide

Portugal is for sure an amazing destination for holidays. While most travellers focus on Lisbon, Porto and Faro, you should definitely discover other places. Some of them are true wonders of nature and architecture. Here is one of the hidden gems of Portugal treasures: SISTELO.

Located in the north of Portugal, in Arcos de Valdevez municipality, this village is one of the oldest in the Alto-Minho. It is a true hidden gem enclosed in a valley at the entrance to Peneda Geres Park. Sistelo is a great example of Man’s ability to adapt to the singularities and adversities of nature. He can transform his environment in favour of his needs and still creating a picture of rare beauty. In Sistelo, we can see amazing scenery thanks to thousands of terraces.

When walking around Sistelo, you can feel a warm welcome from this hidden city. The Portuguese government supported by local actions are maintaining the place as close as possible to its original layout. Time stops and you get into a traditional, authentic journey towards amazing nature and human ingenuity. The sun warms the granite stones and the white walls and while you walk in the small stone paved streets you discover many details in the typical mountain Portuguese architecture.

In Sistelo you can find a few interesting buildings and places. From the castle to the church, all of them deserves a visit. The church is surrounded by green meadows, placing it in a very special place. It is interesting to know that the Order of Malta detained important assets in this area. This is why the city coat of arms contain the Maltese Cross.

While visiting Sistelo, there is something you definitely need to do it to taste the local gastronomy. There are a couple of restaurants proposing the famous Cachena steak. This is something you need to taste (obviously you need to be a meat lover). Cachena cattle is a triple-purpose breed from Portugal and Galicia, Spain. In Portugal, there is also the similar but larger cattle breed known by the name, Barrosão or Barrosã. Cachena and Barrosã are sometimes considered variants of the same race. It is a quite small cattle, used to mountain life. In the past, it almost disappeared but with the help of government financial help, certain farmers decided to maintain this breed alive and cherish as a national treasure.

One of the best places to taste the Cachena steak in a very traditional way is the restaurant called “Tasquinha Ti’Melia“. By booking a table in this place, you will experience an amazing moment at the heart of Sistelo. The owners are passionate about their cooking. You will eat probably one of the best meat ever. They have several traditional Portuguese dishes. You can experience a good menu from what the north of Portugal has to offer.

The first thing that will strike you is the restaurant itself. The Tasquinha Ti’Melia has captured the traditional scenery of an old-time traditional restaurant. Tasquinha comes from the short name of Tasco, which is a traditional word for bar (where you can drink and eat food as well). Ti’Mélia is a contraction of two word: Tia (tante) and Amelia (female name).

Visit Sistelo: The Hidden Gem, Made In Portugal - Travel guide 51

During our experience in this amazing restaurant, we did not hesitate to taste great local specialities. They have their own smoked sausage, served with olives and a good bottle of wine. Then, we continued the meal with the famous Cachena meat, served with a sort of rice risotto style contained in a black traditional pan.

Visit Sistelo: The Hidden Gem, Made In Portugal - Travel guide 53

In case you wish to try if you visit Sistelo, please find here all the elements to book a great table with friends and family. You better call first and book your table as it is a small yet very friendly and authentic place.

Tasquinha de Ti’Mélia
Rua Visconde de Sistelo
4970-645 Sistelo – Portugal
Tel: +351.967.516.796
https://tasquinha-ti-melia-sistelo.negocio.site

If you plan to visit Portugal, you definitely need to discover Sistelo. It is an amazing city in the north of Portugal. Very often it is called the “Portuguese Tibet” because of the landscape. Portugal has amazing places to be discovered as true destinations. You will not be disappointed

Jose Amorim
Information sourced by the author for luxuryactivist.com. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only.

Thank You John Singleton For Everything You Did

José Amorim

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2 May 2019

0

Reading Time: 4 minutes

The world discovered today that American Filmmaker John Singleton passed away at the age of 51 years old. American (but not only) cinema owes him a lot and he was for sure one of the most gifted filmmakers of his generation. He will be remembered for many films and especially Boyz N The Hood.

John Singleton Had A Purpose With His Career

When John Singleton was still a Film student at USC, he already knew he would make a difference in the cinema industry. His passion for filmmaking and his Afro-American folks would set up the scenery for John Singleton to deploy his film vision. All his filmography was dedicated to capturing the nuances of his characters in different films. He created character-driven movies that are easier to use in defining a culture. His film, Boyz N The Hood, was a true defining moment in American history. By staying focused on the main characters, it created a spotlight moment in American Cinema.

Boyz N The Hood Was A Defining Moment In Time

Twenty eight years ago, John Singleton released Boy N The Hood and opened up a true cinematic door into the reality in South Central Los Angeles. It features the story of young Tre Styles living with his single mother in Inglewood, California. This film was a real milestone at multiple levels, from the actors career as well as of the cinema genre.

Boyz N The Hood shows the difficult life in which violence, drugs are everywhere and unfortunately teenagers have lives they should not. “Getting old” was not an option for many of them as generally drugs or guns would take their lives away. The movie marked a true shift in filmmaking and explored the nature of a social problem, away from stereotypes. The film was such a powerful piece, that in 2002 it got to National Film Registry as a film culturally, historically or aesthetically significant.

This film was also the career-launch for many of the actors. The main character is played by Cuba Gooding Jr. It was for sure his breakthrough role in the cinema industry. With Boyz N The Hood, the world discovered the talent of Cuba Gooding Jr. But it was also a breakthrough role to others like Ice Cube, Morris Chestnut or even Angela Basset. It was a whole generation of new actors that would have an amazing career and still are. John Singleton did not stop with Boyz N The Hood. He created a very interesting filmography that is worth watching.

1991- Boyz N The Hood
1993- Poetic Justice
1995- Higher Learning
1997- Rosewood
2000- Shaft
2001- Baby Boy
2003- 2 Fast 2 Furious
2005- Four Brothers
2011- Abduction
2015- Empire (Tv Series, one episode)
2016- American Crime Story (Tv Series, one episode)
2016- Rebel (Tv Series)
2017- Snowfall (Tv Series)

What Does John Singleton Leaves In Terms Of Legacy?

John Singleton revived and became a leading voice on what we call the Hood Film genre. This specific genre features aspects of urban African-American or Hispanic-American culture such as hip hop music, street gangs, racial discrimination, organized crime, gangster, gangsta rap, broken families, drug use and trafficking, illegal immigration into the United States and the problems of young people coming of age or struggling amid the relative poverty and violent gang activity within such neighborhoods. This genre started in the 1970s and took its entire meaning twenty years later with movies like Boyz N The Hood by John Singleton or Jungle Fever by Spike Lee.

In an industry that used to be closed to Afro-American directors, the Hood genre allowed a whole generation of artists to express their talent and opinions to make society a better place. John Singleton brought a modern story-telling style to cinema which served the purpose of many generations of directors all around the world. Here are my top 4 hood movies that you definitely need to know:

1995- La Haine by Mathieu Kassovitz (France)
2002 – Cidade de Deus by Fernando Meirelles and Katia Lund (Brazil)
2008- Talento del Barrio by José Iván Santiago (Puerto Rico)
2017- Detroit by Kathryn Bigelow (USA)

As we can see, John Singleton was a massive influence in the cinema industry and his death represents a big loss for the cinema industry and for humanity. Hopefully, his work will be remembered and will inspire future generations of filmmakers.

Jose Amorin
Information sourced by the author for luxuryactivist.com. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only.

4 Reasons to Choose Oregon for Your Next Vacation

LuxuryActivist

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30 April 2019

0

Reading Time: 3 minutes

Oregon is an increasingly popular destination with travelers and, when you look at all it has to offer, it’s easy to see why. It provides the perfect balance between stunning natural beauty, thrilling adventure, boutique shopping, fascinating history and culture, and exquisite luxury. Located on the Northwest Pacific coastline, this diverse and vibrant state is fast becoming the go-to place amongst travelers of all ages. Whether you’re looking for nightlife and restaurants, relaxation and pampering or a full itinerary of outdoor activities, start planning your vacation in Oregon and enjoy the best of both worlds. Just in case you are yet to be convinced, here are four reasons to visit Oregon in 2019.

1. Awesome Wilderness

Oregon is bursting with incredible scenery to explore including mountains, lakes, rivers, forests, desert, and farmland. The Wallowa Mountains, in particular, are very popular with hikers. There are some stunning lavender fields in the valley of Mt Hood and breathtaking fjords in the Crater Lake National Park. Once you’ve finished exploring for the day, you’re not far from the city of Portland where you can recharge with some excellent coffee, restaurants, and nightlife.

2. Stunning Beaches

Oregon’s coastline meets the Pacific Ocean and provides some truly mesmerizing views of the horizon. Drive down the coastal Highway 101 and visit the best beaches in Oregon. Many include hiking trails and be sure not to miss the Haystock Rock on Cannon Beach. Wildlife fans won’t be disappointed as it can be accessed by foot at low tide so you can do some exploring.

3. Rich Culture & History

When you’re in Portland, you can’t miss some of the city’s great cultural and historical highlights. For example, highlights include the Portland Art Museum, several independent bookstores, designers and galleries. Throughout its history, Portland has been heavily influenced by Asian culture, and you can find evidence of this in the serene retreat that is the Lan Su Chinese Garden or the Japanese Garden.

You can also immerse yourself in some traditions from the Wild West at Pendleton Round-Up. This rodeo festival includes horse relays and barrel racing as well as ‘gold rush ghost towns’ to wander around.

Oregon is home to sun-soaked wine country which is renowned all over the world for the exceptional quality of its vineyards and wineries. Take a tour of some of the most famous wine cellars and sample the very best they have to offer.

4. Find an Adventure

For active and adventurous travelers, Oregon continues to tick all the boxes. Central Oregon is dominated by a high desert which can be enjoyed from the luxury and excitement of a hot-air balloon ride. Camping is a favorite activity as it cycling. In fact, you can hire specially designed bikes which enable you to ride on the sandy beaches. If you fancy pushing yourself to the limits while passing some of the state’s key natural highlights, Springwater Corridor and Willamette River trails, you could take part in the famous Oregon Marathon in July.

Carol
Information sourced by the author for luxuryactivist.com. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only.

Luxury Breaks in the UK You Can Afford

LuxuryActivist

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26 April 2019

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Reading Time: 4 minutes

The UK is full of glamorous getaways that can be more affordable than you’d think. It is within reach for many to take a weekend off to be treated like royalty while enjoying quaint settings and luxurious accommodations. There are a slew of reasonably-priced retreats throughout the UK if you want to reserve an all-inclusive package for relatively cheap. After working too hard, everyone deserves to treat themselves. If you are smart it doesn’t have to hurt your bank account too much. Here are some of your options.

Dining in South Downs

Much of what makes a luxurious retreat memorable is what you eat. At the glamorous New Pace Hotel, you get to enjoy the English countryside, South Downs National Park, and some world class food. Each room comes with a bottle of Prosecco and a three course meal. Every morning you will be greet the day with English breakfast and every evening you can unwind at the Lutyens Bar in the manor’s restaurant. Enjoy a meal here with world some of best service around and great drinks.

During the day you can walk the cliff tops of New Forest National Park, play a game of golf, or visit the Marwell Zoo. The hotel also has indoor fitness centre and a pool to get ready for rich, delicious food, all with a specially curated wine selection.

View Lake Windermere at Storrs Hall

According to the budget travel experts at MoneyPug, a site used to find cheap holidays, the luxurious Storrs Hall is on the shores of Lake Windermere and has amazing views of the water, but it won’t break the bank. The elegance of this accommodation is unparalleled. Foodies will enjoy their course dinner that’s included one evening, the restaurant boasts locally sourced ingredients and delicious dishes. You will enjoy the accommodation’s cream tea service and a full breakfast every day.

An ideal location to explore some of the most beautiful areas of the UK, you will never get tired of the scenery. Take a picnic in tranquil surroundings and relax with a beverage near the lake or go to one of the many bars and restaurants in town. Storrs Hall is also perfect place to stay put if you prefer, with tea, a book, and a great vista.

Immerse Yourself in the Chatsworth House

With 12 acres of serene gardens and views of the lake, the four-star Chatsworth House is where you can disconnect from the world to find peace and quiet. Nearby is the Peak District National Park to reconnect with nature and be with your thoughts. The retreat comes with two tickets to the house gardens and a three course meal on the night of your arrival. Afternoon tea and a full breakfast are also provided. Utilize the on-site spa before opening the complimentary bottle of wine. With over 30 rooms, the Chatsworth House is where you can immerse yourself in what feels like another time. You will leave feeling calm and refreshed.

Take a Break at the RHS Garden Rosemoor

Visiting the Castle Hills Gardens and the beautiful RHS Garden Rosemoor can be done in style, with a stress-less all-inclusive retreat. Staying at the Highbullen Hotel Golf and Country Club, you can enjoy a game of 18 holes and have dinner at the Devon View Restaurant. On this two evening getaway, three course dinners are included on both nights as well as Devon breakfasts on both mornings. You will also be lavished with traditional Devonshire tea and lush natural scenery. Here you can enjoy glamor and the splendor of the country all at once. After coming home from a walk, you can refresh with one of the hotel’s leisure facilities.

Enjoy Yorkshire in Style

Head to the north and stay at the elegant Western Dean Court Hotel, which has intimate charm and an acclaimed restaurant. For two nights, stay in the heart of Yorkshire and dig into the full breakfast in the morning. You will have one complimentary dinner at the famous D.C.H restaurant. The rest of the time you can explore the great town while trying out their many bars and restaurants. York is one of the best city breaks for a reason, it is reasonably priced weekend for luxury and charm.

Ryan Beitler

Ryan Beitler is a journalist, writer, travel blogger, and musician. He has been published in Paste Magazine, OC Weekly, New Noise Magazine, The Slovenia Times, Deadline News, and numerous travel sites. He can be reached at ryanrbeitler@gmail.com

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