At Polo Valley, Sotogrande, Spain, they understand purchasing a polo pony is a difficult decision that involves understanding the relationship between horse and rider. Choosing the right playing pony is important. At Polo Valley they make their own polo ponies so why not get to know the horses before deciding during a long-weekend trial? These trials consist of a number of stick and ball sessions and club chukkas providing you with the chance to get to know your pony. If you choose to buy the pony or ponies, the weekend trial package is discounted from the price. Trial price €1,500 + VAT.
Ponies are available for all levels of players, an example is “California” (not pictured), a seven-year-old chestnut mare which Polo Valley describes as “straightforward and easy to deal with… a rare horse which suits a variety of players and could play up to 14-goal polo”. Price: €30,000. https://polovalley.com/
Legendary yachtie, ex-CYC Commodore and Australian Olympic Committee member, Matt Allen, is selling his iconic racing yacht Ichi Ban, whose name literally translates to ‘number one’ in Japanese. With its reputation as one of the world’s greatest ocean-going racing yachts, it’s safe to say Ichi Ban lives up to its name. This Botin 52 has emerged victorious from numerous races and regattas since she was launched in 2017, including the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race, which she has won Overall three times. For the sailing enthusiast, you can’t put a price on a yacht like this – so we won’t; only time will tell what it ends up going for.
If Ichi Ban just isn’t for you, Nautor Swan’s cruising yachts are another high-quality option for those keen to get out on the water. This Finnish company has been crafting sailing boats since 1966. Their yachts aim to combine performance, comfort, and elegance, and Nautor Swan has four different yacht divisions, including a range of maxi yachts and motor yachts. Notable customers of Nautor Swan include one of the heirs to the Murdoch media empire, Lachlan Murdoch, who was rumoured to have owned a number of the vessels. In September, Nautor Swan began their latest project of constructing their second largest Swan vessel in history, the Swan 128, which won’t quite be available this Christmas, but launches in 2025. https://www.nautorswan.com/about-us/the-company/
Charter a Sea Raes luxury yacht for those who don’t want to do the sailing themselves. Sea Raes recreates the European yacht experience in Australia. Charters can accommodate up to 10 guests – alongside a full crew – so you’ll have the yacht almost entirely to yourselves. This floating retreat includes food and beverages for all guests, with a menu that draws inspiration from the business’s sister property, Raes on Wategos. With charters in the Whitsundays, Pittwater and Sydney, there are many different locations to explore. Prices range from a 24-hour experience – costing $18,000 AUD – up to a 5-night charter for $80,000 AUD. https://searaes.com.au/
Cressida Campbell is one of Australia’s most celebrated contemporary artists. She works in painting and printmaking, focusing on finding beauty within the mundane, with pieces ranging from interior still life paintings to panoramic landscapes. Her work is currently on display at the National Gallery of Australia, from now until the 19th of February. Campbell’s art is highly sought after, and may be tricky to get your hands on, but given her contributions to the Australian contemporary art landscape it is easy to see why. POA. https://www.philipbacongalleries.com.au/
The mindful contemplations:
Ray Nesci’s Bonsai Nursery is one of Sydney’s best kept secrets. Since 1979 the nursery, located 40 minutes north of Sydney, has been growing and cultivating Bonsai plants. For the green thumb these plants – believed to attract good luck and peace – make a great gift. You can travel to the 5-acre property in Dural NSW to source pots, plants and any accessories to enhance your Bonsai journey. The nursery also offers pruning, potting, watering, wiring, and fertilising services for those who need a little help with plants. Prices start from just a few dollars for a starter plant and go up from there. https://www.raynescibonsai.com.au/
If you’re gonna be a geek at least be cool:
Sick of shooting stuff with your mobile phone? Time for a real camera but don’t want to lug a full-size DSLR around? SONY A-series mirrorless have pretty much cornered the market in compact (ish) interchangeable lens cameras that do all the stuff the big boys do, including ultra-fast autofocus and 4K vid – they also are compatible with a variety of social media microphones and stands – take a step up! If you’ve got a vlogger or aspiring videographer in your life, a SONY A-Series could be a perfect gift to foster their passion. An Alpha 7 IV Full-Frame camera will set you back $3,599 for body only. https://www.sony.com.au/
For the sport obsessed:
French-founded Venum Activewear sells a wide range of workout and serious fight gear. They cater to MMA fighting, boxing, Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Karate, as well as more general fitness gear for both men and women. For sport and fight fanatics this Christmas you’ll probably have to order it online and get it delivered from overseas, as they aren’t based in Australia and we couldn’t find a local outlet. There is a kids range as well, for any budding athletes or fighters who might want activewear, fight apparel or equipment in their Santa sack. Prices start from US$30. https://www.venum.com/
A person’s gotta eat: Booking at Geranium Copenhagen
For the foodie in your life, splurge on a booking at Geranium in Copenhagen, Denmark. Named the world’s best restaurant by the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list, Geranium boasts a locally inspired tasting menu, which serves guests around 20 courses and takes multiple hours to eat – so come hungry. The restaurant overlooks the Fælledparken gardens, encouraging guests to appreciate their natural surroundings as they enjoy the seasonally changing menu. Obviously, a restaurant like this is going to have a pretty long waiting list, so we suggest you book well in advance. The Summer 2022 Tasting menu cost 3,200 DKK per guest (Around $665). https://www.geranium.dk/en/
Can’t beat a classic:
Although the Bulgari Serpenti collection is a symbol of endless metamorphosis, one constant is the enduring popularity of these pieces. The collection has been around for 75 years and was originally made famous by Elizabeth Taylor in 1962. Since the first Serpenti watch was released in 1948 the collection has expanded to include necklaces, rings, earrings, and bracelets. Their significance is now being marked by an exhibition in the London’s Saatchi gallery, which opened on the 25th of November, making it the perfect time to invest in one of these timeless pieces. Prices start from $16,500 https://www.bulgari.com/en-au/jewellery/serpenti
Pink diamonds:
If diamonds are a girl’s best friend, Hardy Brothers Jewellers Argyle pink diamond pieces should surely feature in this year’s Christmas wish lists, but the pink diamonds set these rings aside. The handcrafted rings feature a collection of the rarest Argyle pink and blue diamonds on earth. With a range of settings and styles, you can find one that suits you – but if in doubt this Kimberley Heart Argyle Pink Diamond Stacker could make a great addition to any jewellery collection. Price: $10,995.
Tom Ford padlock heels.
Why not step into the holiday season in style? These black pointy padlock sandals are the iconic high heels from Tom Ford. Plain black leather with gold accents, a buckled strap and the highly recognisable padlock charm, these heels could suit a night out on the town or a quiet Christmas dinner date. Curated in Italy, these shoes are ideal for the fashion enthusiast in your life, or as a holiday treat for yourself. Or find other available styles of the padlock heel on the Harrolds website. Price: $1,730.