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LYNNE DAVIS & CO - THE NEWS MEMO
DECEMBER 2025
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WALDORF ASTORIA, NEW YORK IS OPEN
After several years of lavish renovations, blending gorgeous modern luxury with original splendor and
reimagined from sidewalk to spire, the beloved Waldorf Astoria, New York is now open to a new era. With
timeless elegance, contemporary sophistication, and an unmatched reputation for impeccable service,
Waldorf Astoria renews its legacy of greatness in the heart of New York City.
Waldorf Astoria New York’s 375 sumptuous guest rooms and suites are designed by Pierre-Yves Rochon in soft grey with white furnishings, art deco motifs on geometric pendant lamps and patterned doorknobs, and exude refined luxury.
As the building was picked apart and layers of paint were peeled back and sandblasted, the team unearthed wonders including original marble pillars, embossed walls and smoke-stained murals on the ceiling in the Silver Corridor, built to mimic Versailles’ Hall of Mirrors.
Peacock Alley, the main bar, originally linked two separate hotels – the Waldorf and the Astoria which were subsequently connected and boasts the iconic Waldorf Astoria clock, and steps away Cole Porter’s mahogany Steinway piano. The clock is a legendary part of New York City lore and a meeting spot for generations of New Yorkers. Originally commissioned by Queen Victoria for the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago, it was crafted in London and features relief portraits of Presidents George Washington, Andrew Jackson, William Henry Harrison, Abraham Lincoln, Ulysses Grant, and Grover Cleveland,and Queen Victoria of England.
At the hotel’s signature restaurant, Lex Yard by chef Michael Anthony, the Waldorf Salad is presented as a modern update on the classic—featuring celery, apples, grapes, walnuts, and a bright lemon dressing.
Guerlain Wellness Spa where you will experience the luxury of a world-class 22,000 square-foot spa and wellness retreat, offering an array of services and a state-of-the-art fitness center as well as Full Longevity and Wellness Programs, returns to Waldorf Astoria New York.
Gatherings at Waldorf Astoria New York are presented with breathtaking grandeur and impeccable service.
Special rates and surprise amenity when you reserve with Lynne Davis & Co!
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JET-SETTING TO AZURA BENGUERRA ISLAND, MOZAMBIQUE
Lost in paradise is exactly where you want to be ....@azuraretreats
Azura Boutique Retreats is a collection of award-winning luxury Island hideaways within the protected Bazaruto Archipelago region of Mozambique, devoted to conservation, community, and genuine guest experiences. Guests can expect Azura Boutique Retreats’ signature barefoot luxury on one of Mozambique’s last untouched beaches, creating the ultimate island escape. Inspired by a Mozambican-Portuguese Mediterranean aesthetic, characterized by a palette of whites and soft hues one can only kick back and relax. Spoiled for choice your island paradise perfectly blends eco-friendly sophistication with luxury style.
Azura Benguerra Island
Choose from an array of different air-conditioned villas(20), all carefully positioned and designed to
optimize turquoise views, beachfront access and a sense of seclusion. Every villa has a private pool, beach sala, sunbathing deck, comfortable outdoor sofa and dining table all with free-flowing indoor and outdoor spaces, as well as a private butler-host.
Azura Marlin Beach
Recently opened, Azura Marlin Beach features ten beautifully designed villas, each offering elevated views of
the turquoise waters and direct beach access. Crisp and contemporary spacious and light-filled, all villas include a dedicated butler-host and have been created to immerse guests in the breathtaking natural surroundings of Benguerra Island. With thoughtfully designed indoor-outdoor living spaces and a relaxed island aesthetic, each villa offers the perfect balance of casual luxury and coastal elegance.
Indulge in a multitude of bespoke experiences including island hopping, dhow cruises, snorkeling, scuba
diving, fishing, beach picnics, beach dinners, spa, stargazing, horse riding, whale watching dugong spotting and my favorite…. sensational dining options!
Traveling by private jet is an exciting option, seamlessly pairing safari and sea: lions and elephants in the
morning, sundowners with your toes in the sand by evening.
Special rates and surprise amenity when you reserve with Lynne Davis & Co!
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HOTEL IL PELLICANO AND PELLICANO HOTELS, ITALY
In 1965, Patsy Daszel and Michael Graham created a romantic hideaway in a secret cove, giving birth to
Hotel Il Pellicano. With famous guests like Charlie Chaplin and European royalty, the Tuscan home became renowned for its pristine cove, rugged cliffs, and enchanting atmosphere. In 1979, Roberto Sciò acquired the hotel, and today his daughter Marie-Louise, as the Creative Director and CEO, keeps Il Pellicano’s spirit alive with contemporary creativity and timeless elegance.
Nestled on the Tuscan coast in Italy, Hotel Il Pellicano, with its 50 rooms and suites, is a legendary destination known for its impeccable service, and breath-taking surroundings. With its stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, it offers an unforgettable experience of luxury, relaxation, and refined Italian hospitality.
“Hotel Il Pellicano is more than just a hotel—it’s a living story, a second home for so many of us,” said Sciò.
For years Marie-Louise has been dreaming of opening a hotel in the Tuscan hills. She is thrilled to share that
La Suvera, will open in 2027. “La Suvera embodies the layered history and timeless beauty that make Tuscany so singular,” said Marie-Louise “Our aim is to protect and celebrate the estate’s original spirit — from Peruzzi’s architectural gestures to the cultivated gardens — while creating experiences that feel both quietly luxurious and deeply rooted in place.” Another gem recently acquired by Pellicano Hotels is the historic La Badia Estate near Orvieto, Umbria, slated to open in 2027.
ISSIMO, the exclusive lifestyle brand of the Pellicano Hotels Group, unveils its curated Festive Gift Guide, a joyful tribute to Italian artistry, elegance, and flair.
Pellicano Hotels(Hotel Il Pellicano, La Posta Vecchia Hotel, Mezzatorre Hotel & Thermal Spa) set the scene for weddings, honeymoons, birthdays, and anniversaries so that each celebration turns into a legend.
On a gastronomic note, La Posta Vecchia Hotel is delighted to welcome Andrea Barcia as the new Head Chef at Da Aurelio.
Special surprise amenity when you reserve with Lynne Davis & Co!
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SINGITA PRIVATE VILLAS COLLECTION-EXCLUSIVE USE
The Singita Private Villa Collection (nine exclusive-use villas across four countries) allows friends and families to celebrate, connect and spend meaningful time together in nature.
Each with its own design identity, the villas are designed to immerse guests in the inspiring sights and sounds of the surrounding landscapes. Spacious, elegant, African-inspired interiors strike the perfect balance between sophistication and comfort.
Singita's Private Villas give guests the freedom to tailor their time to their own interests and pace. With a dedicated staff complement, meals and activities can be completely personalised and tailored to each group’s need. Each villa includes a host, chef, housekeepers and butlers, as well as private safari vehicles and a Field Guide to stay with you for the course of your stay. Leisure facilities range from tennis courts to private wellness rooms, fitness centres, wine cellars and swimming pools.
“Featuring remote locations, complete privacy and dedicated staff catering intuitively to all their needs, Singita’s exclusive-use villas provide the ultimate spaces for families and friends to connect with nature and each other, while experiencing Africa’s pristine wildlife and wilderness up close.”
LUKE BAILES, FOUNDER & EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN, SOUTH AFRICA
SOUTH AFRICA: Kruger National Park: Singita Lebombo and Sweni Lodges Sabi Sand: Singita Castleton, Boulders and Ebony Lodges
TANZANIA: Grumeti: Singita Sasakwa Lodge, Sabora Tented Camp, Faru Faru Lodge, Serengeti House, Kilima, Milele and Explore, Lamai: Singita Mara River Tented Camp
ZIMBABWE: Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve: Singita Pamushana Lodge and Malilangwe House
RWANDA: Volcanoes National Park: Singita Kwitonda Lodge and Kataza House
BOTSWANA: Elela opening December 2026
Special rates and surprise amenity when you reserve with Lynne Davis & Co!
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WARREN STREET HOTEL, NEW YORK (two Michelin keys, 2025)
“A hotel’s design is a living thing, in a way. And with interiors, it’s transitory and subject to passion.”– Kit Kemp
Set in the creative heart of Tribeca, nestled among restored redbrick warehouses, Warren Street Hotel is a celebration of contemporary art and design and an ode to the neighborhoods’ textile industry roots, with every inch joyfully capturing iconic designer Kit Kemp’s sense of fun and love for storytelling.
"Hotels should be living things not stuffy institutions" maintain Tim and Kit Kemp, owners of Firmdale Hotels.
SPECIAL OFFER – WHEN AT WARREN
Venture into Tribeca, a vibrant New York neighborhood brimming with charm and character. Stroll along its charming, cobbled streets, explore artists' studios, visit independent shops, and savor the flavors of locally loved restaurants.
Receive the best flexible rate and all of the following:
Welcome bottle of Champagne
Complimentary English breakfast
Tall Trees candle welcome gift
Guaranteed 2pm late check out
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Live Jazz and cocktails in the restaurant on Thursdays from 6-9pm
Traditional Sunday roasts served every Sunday
Afternoon tea served daily
Rates are flexible and subject to availability and conditions, from $950/ room per night excluding taxes
Special rates and surprise amenity when you reserve with Lynne Davis & Co!
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GOODMAN GALLERY
Founded in 1966 in Johannesburg, Goodman Gallery is a powerhouse from the continent, with a growing roster of artists from Africa and its Diaspora. For 59 years, the gallery has championed a leading community of artists who inspire social change and provided a platform for dialogue and healing. In 1966, during South Africa’s apartheid years, the gallery opened its doors to artists of all races, refusing to discriminate against artists of color and becoming one of the first spaces in the world to exhibit artists who are beginning to gain global recognition as pioneers of 20th Century African Art. Goodman Gallery has a long history of supporting social responsibility projects in South Africa.
Since 2008, under the leadership of owner director Liza Essers(featured on this years artreview_magazine Power 100), the gallery has expanded from the preeminent South African gallery to a pioneering global gallery with a robust international program.
Today, the gallery represents artists hailing from around the world – South Africa, Egypt, Ghana, Iran, France, Canada, Kenya, Zimbabwe, Chile, Angola, the US, China, the UK, Portugal, Columbia, Botswana and Cuba.
Goodman Gallery holds long-term relationships with major contemporary South African artists and estates, representing Sam Nhlengethwa, William Kentridge, Sue Williamson, Lisa Brice as well as the estates of David Koloane and David Goldblatt. The gallery’s roster has expanded to include the next generation of artists from around the world.
Goodman Gallery maintains two footholds in South Africa namely Johannesburg and Cape Town, London’s Mayfair, and New York’s Upper East Side.
Next art fairs on the calendar for Goodman Gallery: FOG Art & Design Fair in San Francisco: January 21st - 25th, 2026 and ArtSG in Singapore: January 22nd - 25th, 2026. See you there!
Please contact us for more information.
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AFRIKA TIKKUN, Johannesburg, South Africa
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” Nelson Mandela, Patron – Afrika Tikkun
Afrika Tikkun is a proudly South African, apolitical non-profit organization and recent winner of SA’s Best NGO award by the CSI Legacy Awards. It is a vehicle through which young people can discover their truest potential; they are mere facilitators, guiding them with care and love toward a better future.
Afrika Tikkun grows, nurtures and establishes young lives from cradle to career. Their focus is to empower young people through trusted partner contributions – and their promise is to nourish their partnerships for the greater well-being of their young people. They believe in kindness, impact, and true empowerment.
It began with belief. Belief in the potential of South Africa to emerge from the ashes of apartheid and become a demonstrable triumph for human rights. Bertie Lubner and Chief Rabbi Cyril Harris’s philanthropic vision for thriving communities was built on a passion for people, a drive for improvement and a responsibility that they called kindness. Together, fueled by the momentum of 1994, they forged their dream for South Africa, initially focusing on meeting immediate basic needs and providing skills training in select communities.
The impact of Afrika Tikkun was far-reaching, even to national icons such as the late and honorable Nelson “Madiba” Mandela. With a longstanding friendship and a shared vision of a free and fair South Africa, Madiba chose to partner closely with Afrika Tikkun as Patron-in-Chief of the cause to uplift and educate South Africa’s vulnerable youth.
Today, the legacy of Afrika Tikkun continues in the hands of Bertie’s son Marc Lubner, and the Afrika Tikkun community that upholds youth development as the hallmark of change.
Participate in an Afrika Tikkun experience and make a difference or donate
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Hope you enjoyed the latest news memo* from our clients and colleagues.
*What's a news memo?
A memo is a short, to the point communication conveying your thoughts, reactions or opinion on something. A memo can call people to action or broadcast a bit of timely news.
Reserve with your travel professional (mention Lynne Davis & Co) or with pleasure through us. Travel professionals, please provide your IATA number.
Happy Holidays and everything of the best for the New Year!
Thanks for your unwavering support and looking forward to connecting soon!
Lynne J. Davis
Lynne Davis & Co. LLC.
Tel: 212-717-5789
Cell: 917-650-7487
email: davisandco1@aol.com
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P.S. Interested in a private villa in Sicily, Sardinia, Tuscany or Rome or a private house in Southern or East Africa, or your own private Safari Lodge? Or anything else take your fancy? Let us know your requirements here, and we'll get back to you with some fabulous options.
| | Photo Credit: Waldorf Astoria New York, Azura, Pellicano Hotels(Marie-Louise Scio-@GerardoGaetani), Singita, Firmdale Hotels, Goodman Gallery (Goodman Gallery, Johannesburg, South Africa. Courtesy of Goodman Gallery. © Anthea Pokroy; Liza Essers, owner and director of Goodman Gallery in front of artwork, El Anatsui, Freedom, 2021. Courtesy of Goodman Gallery. © Anthea Pokroy; William Kentridge, Still from Self-Portrait as a Coffee Pot, Episode 5: As If, 2022, HD Video, 27 min 29 sec. Courtesy Kentridge Studio. © William Kentridge), Afrika Tikkun | | | | |