Services Provided: Concierge

Elegance and adrenalin on ice

Posted on February 23, 2022 by - Event, Lifestyle, Luxury, Sport

Corporate Sport Hospitality Packages

The crash of hooves on the ice, snow flying as the mallet hits; the pop of champagne, cool from the Alpine air. Polo is always an elegant affair, but paired with the snowy scenes of one of Switzerland’s most exclusive resorts, it takes on new heights.

Every year, four teams, sponsored by Cartier, Maserati, Badrutt’s Palace and Azerbaijan, fly in to battle it out on the frozen lake of St Moritz in the world’s only high goal tournament played on the ice. Our guests were a group of French polo enthusiasts, keen to see this unique spectacle, and enjoy the legendary scene of St Moritz.

The resort is located in Switzerland’s upper Engadin valley, a hidden winter wonderland accessed via a scenic and winding alpine pass, but just two and a half hours from Zürich airport. Guests arrived into Zürich in the evening, and spent the night at the Baur au Lac hotel, a beautiful historic setting on the edge of the lake. Dinner was served at Maison Manesse, a contemporary restaurant focussed on local produce from farmers in the region.

The next morning, the guests took a leisurely transfer to St Moritz, enjoying the stunning Swiss scenery as they drove the two and a half hours south towards to Engadin. On arrival, they were welcomed into a private chalet five minutes from the lake, complete with private swimming pool, hot tub, steam room, sauna, and elevator. The well-equipped kitchen was the domain of the private chef, hired to delight the group with local and seasonal specialties before and after their equine adventures.

VIP passes included an invitation to the exclusive lounge in Badrutt’s Palace Hotel, the most prestigious address in St Moritz. Lunch was accompanied by spectacular views of the matches on the lake, as well as fine wine and cigars. If the group preferred to be closer to the action, seats in the grandstand were provided, with a glass of champagne and a blanket.

After the Badrutt’s Palace team collected their trophy, the group took the short walk back to the chalet, for an exclusive private dinner, via several of the town’s high-end VIP après ski bars. They were back in time for an aperitif, before enjoying the chef’s fine culinary creations. 

If you are interested in attending next years’ St. Moritz Polo, get in touch with Blend Group’s team.

Snow Polo St Moritz Trip

 

Snow Polo St Moritz – Carlton Hotel

Posted on May 11, 2021 by - Cultural, Event, Fine Dining, Luxury

Every year, four teams, sponsored by Cartier, Maserati, Badrutt’s Palace and Azerbaijan, fly in to battle it out on the frozen lake of St Moritz in the world’s only high goal tournament played on the ice. Three days of hospitality at the Snow Polo 2022 paired with four nights of luxury in a Junior Suite at the Carlton Hotel are included within this package.

The Hotel offers 60 individually designed suites overlooking Lake St. Moritz and the high Alpine valley region of Engadine. It also has two restaurants welcoming you with international specialities and Michelin star cuisine. Relaxation for the mind and body is on the menu in the Carlton spa, which combines 100% natural products with the healing power of nature.

The Junior Suite boasts an incredible panoramic view of the St Moritz lake with a backdrop of the stunning Engadin mountain range. The combined living and sleeping area of this 45 sqm suite offers direct access to the marble bathroom with a separate bathtub and unique rain shower. Your stay will include a daily swiss buffet style breakfast as well CHF 100 food and beverage credit per guest per night to be used at their stunning onsite restaurant facilities. In addition to this, you will have access to the 1’200 sqm Carlton Spa, a butler service and 24 hours limousine service within St. Moritz.

During the course of your three days at the Polo, your pass will include entry to the VIP tent where you will enjoy the fine food and premium bar available, as well as a seat in the VIP grandstand. This exclusive section of the Snow Polo World Cup is a world class setup with a private lounge and dining hall on the frozen Lake of St. Moritz, catered by Badrutt’s Palace Hotel. There is an exquisite sit-down buffet lunch with a spectacular view of the Polo set up and the marvelous Engadin mountains. Great wines, a full deluxe bar and a cigar/smoking lounge are also included in this package. Of course your grandstand seats will be equipped with warm blankets as well as champagne and a hot beverage service to ensure maximum comfort whilst watching the event.

With the Hotel overlooking the Polo event, you will be able to walk down to your VIP area on the event days. However, should you require anything such as a driver, Blend Group will be on hand to assist with any requests you have. If you are interested in booking this package, please get in touch with Blend Group.

The Masters at Augusta National

Posted on December 20, 2020 by - Event, Fine Dining, Luxury, Sport

Exclusive Masters Golf Trip

Experience Inclusions

  • Return business class flights
  • Transfers included
  • 5 nights at the Ritz Carlton Reynolds Hotel
  • Tickets to The Masters 2022
  • Hospitality included
  • Round of Golf at the Landing Golf Course
  • Round of Golf at the Great Waters Golf Course

One of the four Major Championships, the Masters is not merely regarded as one of the most prestigious competitions in the world of golf, but amongst the most prestigious in the world of sport. This invitational event is the only golf Major that is held annually at the same course – Augusta National. Since 1934 the best golfers in the world have been assembled to compete for huge monetary reward, unrivalled respect within the game and of course the well-renowned Green Jacket.

Augusta National is one of the most beautiful golf courses on the planet and the Georgia spring provides a backdrop of sunny blue skies and lusciously green fairways. The abundance of the course’s trademark towering pine trees and charming azaleas adds to the picture, evoking the senses and contributing to the unique aura of the Masters.

We have created an experience for a group of clients who wish to watch the Masters live, as well as playing a round or two of golf themselves. The group will be flying business class from London to Atlanta, Georgia before checking in at the Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee. Located just outside Atlanta and along the waterfront of the lake, the hotel offers 5-star luxury and serene, picturesque surroundings.

The hotel has five on-site championship golf courses and a luxury southern-routes spa as well as offering water sports on the lake. It also boasts numerous exquisite dining options which strongly reflect regional traditions and culture. Locally farmed ingredients provide the basis for southern-inspired dishes to be enjoyed alongside views of the lake and the golf courses. Other tastes are catered for if you want a break from the local cuisine and the Barrel Room provides entertainment with billiards, live music, craft cocktails and a lakeside view.

The Masters 2022 Bespoke Package

During their stay, the group will be playing two of the hotel’s five championship golf courses; The Landing and The Great Waters. The Landing was the first course to be built on the Oconee and presents a winding course through wooded areas and rolling hills, wrapping dramatically along the shores of the stunning lake. The Great Waters provides the same scenic and unspoiled setting alongside a truly challenging course that was designed by eighteen-time major champion, Jack Nicklaus.

The group will be in amongst the action on day two and three of the tournament with badge access to Augusta National and the opportunity to follow whichever golfers they choose. Breakfast will be taken at the VIP hospitality venue which is located just 200 yards from the South Gate Entrance. The hospitality facility will remain open throughout the day and provides unlimited food, a premium open bar, complimentary cigars, live music, on-demand shuttles to-and-from the course and multiple television screens ensuring our guests won’t miss any of the action.

Due to their morning round at the Great Waters, the group will watch the final day of the action in the relaxed setting of the hotel’s Barrel Room as part of one final evening of opulence at the Ritz-Carlton.

Should you wish to experience one of the world’s greatest sporting showcases whilst revelling in the famous Deep South hospitality in complete luxury, please get in touch.

Fine Wine

Posted on December 17, 2020 by -

Wine has been one of the world’s most celebrated pleasures for thousands of years. The Romans believed it to be a daily necessity, the Ancient Greeks fuelled famous symposia parties with it and in the modern world an increasing number of regions are now producing it to a high quality.

Wine in its many forms is accessible to all, but at Blend Group we’re only concerned with the best you can get. So, whether you want to stock a party, fill your cellar or find an extra-special gift, Blend Group will use its extensive list of contacts and partners, from the New World to Bordeaux, to source the perfect wine for you.

Additionally, if you’re fascinated by vinology and want to learn more about the process of making and selling wine, we can source the world’s finest, private and luxury vineyard experiences too.

 

 

Aviation

Posted on December 17, 2020 by -

Booking flights is often seen as a hassle. As a Blend Group member, you will be able to utilise our network of scheduled flight, private jet and full charter companies, ensuring a smoother process and the highest level of service. Our team understands your preferences when flying, specific dietaries, your favourite seat in first class, or if you prefer a Challenger 650 or Legacy 600 when flying private. The membership team are here to create a seamless booking process.

Additionally, should you fly frequently and require long term ‘hours’ memberships, or indeed wish to own your own jet, we have the knowledge and contacts to assist.

Prime Real Estate

Posted on December 17, 2020 by -

Within our Members’ Collective is a pool of some of the most picturesque, luxurious and sought-after properties on the planet. Think peaceful ocean-side chateaus, city centre penthouse suites and elaborate country manors – you’ll find it all. As one of our valued members, you will gain exclusive access to this exquisite real estate, to both purchase and rent. So, whether you’re looking for your next dream home, an addition to your property portfolio or a short-term break like no other, Blend Group’s Members’ Collective is where you’ll find it.

World-class skiing and dining in the French Alps

Posted on November 22, 2020 by - Active, Fine Dining, Leisure, Luxury

Courchevel ski holiday

From gentle slopes to challenging cliff runs, Courchevel really has it all. It is largely considered one of the finest ski areas in the world, and as part of a group of seven interconnected resorts, it offers access to 600 kilometres of ski runs. 

The resort is made up of four villages, and the jewel in the crown is Courchevel 1850. Our guests will stay at the Six Senses Residences in the village. Each Residence features four bedrooms, a wine cellar, and private spa treatments rooms, and boasts incredible views over Les Trois Vallées. 

Courchevel’s reputation for fine living is completed with seven Michelin star restaurants, four of which have two stars. Blend Group has put together an odyssey of epicurean experiences for our clients, taking in hot spots such as Le Chabichou, La Saulire, Le 1947 at Cheval Blanc and Le Maison des Bois.

Luxury Skiing & Dining in The French Alps

 

And, of course, there is skiing. The resort is suitable for all levels and has some of the most beautiful skiing in the area. The most famous runs include the Suisse, a black run starting at the top of the Courchevel valley at 2600m, which gives a sweeping challenge to even experienced skiers, and at the other end of the scale, the Plan Fontaine, a tree-lined green run which allows even beginners to enjoy the stunning alpine scenery that defines Les Trois Vallées.

Blend Group have organised ski school lessons for some of the younger members of the group, as well as a private one-on-one tutor for a guest keen to take their technique to the next level. With a private nanny included as part of the trip, adults are free to enjoy all that the resort has to offer, including a private helicopter transfer to restaurant Le Maison des Bois, a 25-minute journey over stunning panoramic views of Mont Blanc.

Courchevel is a unique resort, and we wanted to ensure that our clients got to experience the best that it had to offer, tailored to their time and taste. We spent time working with them directly to understand their priorities for the trip and have curated a bespoke itinerary that blends their top picks with our own expert insight.

If you would like to work with us on your next bespoke ski itinerary, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Two Prestigious Cities and the Ultimate Football Experience

Posted on November 21, 2020 by - Event, Fine Dining, Luxury, Sport

2022 World Cup Packages & Luxury Travel

Experience Inclusions

3 x Match Club Hospitality & Category A Tickets
8 x Airport transfers in Mercedes S Class
12 Nights in Deluxe Room – Four Seasons Abu Dhabi – Al Maryah Island
Welcome Gift

The upcoming football World Cup in Qatar promises to be a footballing celebration like none seen before. The tournament is being held in the Middle East for the first time ever and will consequently showcase the game in a completely new light. From stadium design to hospitality, the tournament will joyously celebrate this stunning part of the world and its unique culture.

The occasion has generated amazing interest from our client base and so we’ve put together an idea of what we can do to get you out there and into the heart of the action. Please note that itineraries will be tailored specifically to fit your exact bespoke needs and relevant matchday kick-off times.

You’ll be greeted at Abu Dhabi airport by a Mercedes S Class 30-minute luxury private transfer to the Four Seasons Abu Dhabi, located on Al Maryah Island. You’ll receive a welcome gift upon arrival and be able to instantly settle into the opulence on offer.

The 34-storey hotel, which will be home for the duration of your stay, is perched on a collection of over 200 islands and boasts all you need for a luxury getaway. One of the reasons we’ve selected this hotel is because of the variety and magnitude of cuisine available. There’s a total of six restaurants and bars, including Butcher and Still – a 1920’s Chicago steakhouse, Café Milano – an Italian seafood and pasta restaurant with accompanying waterfront views and Zsa Zsa – a gourmet cocktail and snack bar.

Whilst at the hotel, you’ll also have the opportunity to indulge yourself in the Pearl Spa with treatments including; all-encompassing relaxing and reviving therapies; head-to-toe treatments designed to bring your body back to life; and a wide range of relaxing and healing massages. With all of this on offer you’ll be sure to return home recharged and revitalised.

2022 World Cup Packages & Luxury Travel

With an outdoor swimming pool terrace, fitness centre, modern shopping centre and barbershop and salon all on-site you may be forgiven for losing sight of the real reason for being there. That reason of course is the World Cup. From your location in Abu Dhabi you’ll have the benefits of being away from the hustle and bustle whilst still being able to access the matches without any hassle.

On matchdays you’ll be privately transported to every location. From the hotel, a short transfer will get you to Abu Dhabi airport for a quick flight over to Doha. In Doha, you’ll be privately transported to and from the stadium and depending on kick off time, will be able to enjoy what Doha has to offer either before or after the match.

At the stadium you’ll enjoy matchday hospitality and the game itself in Category A seating. Our on-the-ground transfer partners will ensure that you are transported to every location in a luxurious and seamless manner. With Doha such a short flight away from Abu Dhabi and all of the stadiums within close proximity of Qatar’s capital, we can assure you that the transportation side of things will run smoothly and swiftly.

In between matches you’ll be able to relax at your leisure in Abu Dhabi. Whether that involves playing a round of golf at the prestigious Yas Links Abu Dhabi, ranked in the top 50 courses in the world; riding the world’s fastest roller coaster at Ferrari World; visiting the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque; enjoying a desert safari or simply relaxing at the hotel, there is plenty to keep you occupied! Additionally, with Dubai a mere hour and half down the road you’ll have easy access to one of the world’s most visited destinations.

When this trip of a lifetime comes to an end, you will be transported back to Abu Dhabi airport for your outbound flight. If you would like to find out more please get in touch with the Blend Group so we can put together a bespoke itinerary for you.

International Rugby, Vineyards and Luxury Safari in South Africa

Posted on November 18, 2020 by - Event, Luxury, Sport, Wildlife

British and Irish Lion Tour 2021 Experience

The Lions tour is undoubtedly one of the highlights of the sporting calendar. Occurring every four years, there are few sporting events that muster as much impassioned support and on-field commitment. The nations of England, Wales, Scotland, and Ireland unite to tour one of the three Southern Hemisphere giants of the game and in 2021 it is the turn of South Africa to host.

For a long-standing client of Blend Group, we created a bespoke nine-night experience to ensure they will be at the heart of the action. Arriving in Cape Town they are spending four nights at the 5* Marly hotel in a Superior Suite. Located in Camps Bay, a chic suburb on the Atlantic Seaboard, the hotel is surrounded by trendy cafes and bars. The area’s relaxed daytime atmosphere combined with its energetic nightlife, as well as the fact it is located 7 minutes away from the centre of Cape Town, make it the ideal location for a city break. Additionally, from their Superior Suite, guests can take in views of the dramatic and world-famous Table Mountain.

Following this, guests will enjoy the Aquila Safari experience. Not only does the Aquila pride itself on its luxurious hospitality and facilities, including a 35-meter saltwater pool and the serene Tranquila Spa, but it offers an unforgettable wildlife experience too. It gives its guests the chance to experience the reserve’s natural flora and fauna by vehicle, quad bike, or horseback, allowing you to get up close and personal with the wildlife. Included in our clients’ stay are two safari drives plus breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Bespoke Event Experiences - Cape Town Stadium

Up next is the Delaire Graff Estate, which is widely considered to be one of the jewels of the Cape Winelands. Regarded as one of the finest vineyards in the world, it is also a stunning place to unwind and we believe no trip to South Africa is complete without a stay here. The luxury of a Presidential Suite awaits, which includes a private terrace, living room with fireplace, private heated pool, complimentary bar and breathtaking surrounding views. Why not take a look at our Insight about fine wine in South Africa for more information about the Delaire Graff Estate.

This epic trip ends in Johannesburg with two nights at the Marriott, staying in a Suite with views of the city. It is here that the clients will watch the third and final Test between South Africa and the British and Irish Lions.

Please get in touch if you would like to discuss how we can create a similar, yet bespoke, South African experience for you.

World-class tennis and tastes at Wimbledon

Posted on November 5, 2020 by - Event, Fine Dining, Luxury, Sport

Wimbledon is the world’s most prestigious tennis tournament. Dreams have been built and broken on these courts, in front of the wide eyes of millions of spectators. Debenture seats on Centre Court are sought after months in advance, and none more coveted than the Final’s weekend.

Blend Group organised for a group of 16 international guests to visit the capital and experience Wimbledon from the best debenture seats in the stands. The group watched as Roger Federer beat Rafael Nadal in the Men’s Semi-Final, the duo’s first clash in London since 2008, before going on to lose to Novak Djokovic in a Final that went down as one of the greatest games in the history of the sport. On both days, our clients were sat in two groups of 8 in the shaded area of Centre Court, as they requested, where they had unrivalled views of these legendary matches.

The visit began at the Intercontinental Park Lane, where guests were greeted with a champagne reception before enjoying a three-course tasting menu in the private dining room of Michelin star chef Theo Randall’s restaurant, located within the hotel. The following morning, a fine breakfast spread was provided before a private transfer escorted the guests to south London for the day of tennis.

After the tennis on both days, Blend Group organised further private dining experiences at London hotspots China Tang, one of the best Cantonese restaurants outside of China, and Sexy Fish, serving Japanese-inspired sushi, seafood, fish and Robata grill in the privately hired Coral Reef room. Both restaurants are in the heart of Mayfair, and walking distance from the hotel, ensuring easy and relaxed evenings with consistent five-star service. This 4-night, luxury trip was thoroughly enjoyed by all in attendance.

If you are interested in creating your next Wimbledon experience with some of London’s finest attractions included in your package, get in touch with one of Blend Group’s team.

 

Food trucks, Meat Cuts and Michelin Stars

Posted on November 4, 2020 by - Fine Dining, Leisure, Luxury, Wine

Exclusive London Food & Drink Experiences

At Blend Group we appreciate what makes a fine dining experience special and have put together a unique London weekend line-up filled with exquisite culinary delight.

Upon arrival into the capital, you will check-in to the 4* Novotel London Bridge. Ideally located in the London Bridge area, the hotel is within walking distance of numerous iconic landmarks, including Borough Market, the Shard and the Tate Modern.

Your first culinary experience will take place at the Ginger Pig, a multi-faceted butcher-come-restaurant. Here you will partake in one of their hands-on workshops covering meat preparation and traditional butchery techniques, followed by an informal two-course meal. You’ll learn all about the meat you’re working with as well as how to get the very best out of each cut.

Michelin starred restaurants London

The next morning is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Borough Market, which sits on your doorstep, offers a multitude of culinary options from all over the world and is well worth exploring for a couple of hours. We’d highly recommend Mei Mei, a street food vendor which specialises in dishes from Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia. Mei Mei’s Head Chef is the well renowned, Michelin Star-wielding, former Masterchef contestant Elizabeth Haigh, so you can be assured that your palate will be well catered for. Mei Mei’s offer their well-renowned Hainanese chicken and rice dish as well as numerous other contemporary and traditional dishes from the region. With a vegan menu to boot, everybody’s tastes are catered for.

Be sure not to eat too much, however, as you’ll want save some space for what is still to come. You’ll begin at Hedonism for an unforgettable wine tasting experience. Champagne on arrival precedes a two-hour tasting extravaganza, taking in six different wines accompanied by charcuterie and cheese platters or a selection of canapés from Hedonism’s Michelin restaurant partner Hide.

In the evening a private, secluded dining experience at Angela Hartnett’s much coveted Michelin starred Murano awaits. Your menu will consist of nine courses of Italian and Mediterranean inspired food and your private room will offer a window view directly into the kitchen, giving you a chance to witness the magic happening first-hand. Your eagerly anticipated menu will be crafted on the day of your visit, however, previous guests of Murano’s private dining experience have had their taste buds delighted by innovative dishes featuring monkfish, white asparagus, Cornish mussels and a helping of pork crackling.

The next morning, you will check out of the hotel after a Full English breakfast, bringing an end to a weekend of divine culinary extravagance. To book this experience or something similar, please get in touch with one of the team.

An Olympic odyssey in Japan

Posted on October 27, 2020 by - Cultural, Event, Luxury, Sport

Luxury Travel Destinations

World class athletes meet world class culture and dining in a trip that takes in Japan’s twin centres of tourism.

A little over a year before the Summer Olympics 2020 were scheduled, we were approached to create a magnificent Japanese adventure for two families. We worked closely with the guests to understand their interests, and created a bespoke itinerary that allows them to experience the incredible culture that Japan has to offer, while leaving time for the group to fully enjoy the incredible spectacle of the Olympic Games.

With a diverse list of interests across the group, Blend Group were tasked with creating an itinerary that will provide an exceptional experience for everyone on the trip. The group will be met at Tokyo airport by their private VIP transfer, who will whisk them across the city to the five-star Mesm Tokyo. This hotel is perfectly placed on the edge of Tokyo Bay, offering easy access to the Olympic Tokyo Bay Zone, and the Olympic Heritage Zone. To give our guests a sense of the city, they will be taken on a three-day private tour that covers some of Tokyo’s most special sights. From the spiritual shrine of Meiji Jingu, to the unique street style of Harajuku and the contemporary architecture of Omotesando; the immersive art of TeamLabs to a meet and greet with Asimo the Robot at the Museum of Science & Engineering technology; a workshop in Nijutsu with a member of an ancient ninja clan, to Japanese home cooking classes Manga drawing lessons, or a tour of the Studio Ghibli Museum, the group will experience a wealth of ancient and modern Japanese culture.

Japan bespoke event experiences

Of course, the main draw of the trip is the opportunity to see world class athletes compete at the Olympics. The group will have tickets to the memorable Opening Ceremony, as well as a number of competitions that match their interests.

After experiencing the unique culture of Tokyo, Japan’s modern heart, the group will travel to Kyoto, the country’s traditional soul. A first-class train ticket on the Shinkansen, more commonly referred to as the Bullet Train, is an experience in itself and will wind its way through the countryside between the two cities, before our guests arrive at the Four Seasons Kyoto, the city’s newest luxury address. Here, guests can relax, and soak up the slower pace of some of Japan’s ancient arts. The tour of Kyoto begins with a tea ceremony at a Zen temple, before taking the group to experience the temples and gardens tucked amid the bamboo groves in the northwest and west of the city. The next day, Blend Group have organised for our guests to see the iconic red gates of the Fushimi Inari Shrine. It’s the perfect place to take a walk and build up a thirst for a traditional green tea, the famous export of nearby Uji. The group will also unlock their inner Zen creativity with an Ikebana flower arranging lesson, which draws traditional Japanese principles of simplicity to create stunning aesthetic arrangements.

Alongside this cultural adventure, the group specified that they would like to experience Japan’s world-famous food scene. Blend Group have organised a gastronomic journey to match the incredible itinerary, taking in early morning trips to find the freshest fish at the iconic Tsukiji fish market, to Robot restaurants, Michelin-starred fine dining at city hotspots, and even exclusive insider access to a private geisha dinner in Kyoto.

If you are interested in combining sport and culture in Japan, please get in touch with a member of the Blend Group team.