Life Begins At...

Autumn 2021

Life Begins At.....

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A Picture Paradise Luxury Escape Imogen Rose takes you on a luxurious journey north, to the Gold Coast, where she shows you how to fi nd warmth, style and comfort as the months begin to cool. T he Gold Coast remains one of Australia's premier luxury destinations. And when the climate begins to cool and one is reminded that Australia still experiences cold weather, there is something inviting, invigorating, even intoxicating, about the ocean. It's the ideal time to snuggle-up indoors with a beautiful water view and to listen to the rumble of the sea from the leisure of your hotel room. Thus, why not allow the siren's enchanting, ancient call, the refreshing, uplifting smell of the salty air from lands afar, transporting the promise of new and endless possibilities to rejuvenate the senses and diminish the stress and strains of the everyday. This is the ideal time for a luxury winter escape! In fact, autumn and winter provide some of the best opportunities to enjoy the Coast and a perfect way to escape the winter blues. These are the seasons during which the crowds are down and the atmosphere changes from hot and hectic, to cool and calm, especially, when one is there to indulge. When embarking upon any luxury holiday the right choice of accommodation is critical. Yet not all luxury hotels share the same defi nition, or interpretation, of luxury. Similarly, not all stars are equal. However, the Sofi tel Broadbeach is a luxury hotel where brand, image and actuality are in happy alignment. As a global brand, the Sofi tel is centrally and internationally controlled from Paris. Dotted around the world, their hotels embrace the relevant locale whilst retaining a distinctly French fl air. It's no surprise then that the standard of à la carte cuisine and French inspired patisseries is exceptional. As an individual hotel, it demonstrates a similar centralisation of control wherein management is actively committed to providing guests with the ultimate luxury experience. It's a smoothly and effi ciently run enterprise where guests will fi nd staff in all areas welcoming and responsive to their needs and requests. The Sofi tel Broadbeach occupies an ideal location. It's but a short stroll to the beach and offers convenient access to a broad range of cafes, restaurants, health spa and leisure activities. There is also a complimentary shuttle bus service to nearby Pacifi c Fair. In 2016, the shopping powerhouse completed a $670 million redevelopment and with more designer labels than anywhere else in the state, it has acquired a reputation as a must for anyone seeking luxury brands and haute couture, including Givenchy, Tiffany and Co., Hermes, Gucci, Prada, Rolex, Max Mara and Louis Vuitton. Following a long day's shopping, one can further indulge in lunch or dinner at Bar 81 where the menu is fresh, inventive and succulent. The bread, butter and pastries are certainly reminiscent of the Sofi tel's Gallic homage. The barramundi is tender, and expertly cooked with a bouillabaisse sauce that creates a delightful, yet balanced piquancy. The truffl e butter is delicious enough to be savoured on its own while the crème brûlée is laden with a heavenly heaviness under the sumptuous shield of a burnt-caramel, golden brocade. Head Pastry Chef, Melanie Day, conveys a genuine enthusiasm for creating original, yet traditional French inspired Pastries and deserts, demonstrating expertise and passion. Summer is but a distant memory as one returns to the luxury of one's room for a soak in the spa – appropriately with a view DESTINATION QLD / GOLD COAST T R A V E L / D O M E S T I C lifebeginsat.com.au Autumn 2020 2020 84

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