Teaser | Vicarious | Summer 2025

FEROCIOUS! 2025 BMW M4 CS

FEATURED CAR 2025 Lexus LC 500

FIRST RIDE 2025 Royal Enfield Bear 650

ROADSIDE CHIC Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui

55 years of

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CONTENTS

Editor In Chief Contributors

ROADSIDE CHIC Napili Kai Beach Resort 36

16 DRIVER'S SEAT

2025 BMW M4 CS

24 DISCOVERED

2025 Dakar Rally

ROADSIDE CHIC

PIN HIGH Golf As Life

DRIVE

FIRST DRIVE 2025 Porsche 911 Carrera S FIRST DRIVE 2025 Ford Maverick Lobo

FIRST DRIVE 2025 Rolls-Royce Black Badge Spectre

FEATURED CAR 2025 Lexus LC 500

PIN HIGH Golf As Life 38

RIDE

FIRST RIDE 2026 Aprilla RSV4 Factory 1100 FIRST RIDE 2025 Royal Enfield Bear 650

DISCOVER

COVER PHOTO 2025 BMW M4 CS “Lightweight, agile, fierce—every ounce shed from the frame matters.". Go to page 16 read the full review!

DISCOVERED Friday The 13th Port Dover

90 DISCOVERED

Destination Defender 2025

FEATURED REGION Postcard Perfect

Verdura Resort

OUR TEAM EDITOR IN CHIEF JEFF VOTH

102 GAME CHANGERS

The Women Of First To The Finish

110 FROM THE TABLE 112 CORKSCREW 116 CIGAR LIFE 120 GEAR UP! 126 TIME ZONE 126 BUILDING SPEED

jvoth@vicariousmag.com EDITOR AT LARGE MATTHEW NEUNDORF mneundorf@vicariousmag.com SENIOR EDITOR DAN HEYMAN dheyman@vicariousmag.com TRAVEL EDITOR JESSICA JEAN MARTIN SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER KRISTIN PITMAN CONTRIBUTORS ALLISON NGUYEN

LEGO Lamborghini Countach 5000 Quattrovalvole

130 CARAGE - BEYOND RARE 2025 Lamborghini Revuelto 138 TRAVEL EDITOR'S LETTER 139 NEXT TIME IN VICARIOUS

BRIAN MAKSE DAN HEYMAN

EDWARD NARRACA HUNTER GUINDON IAIN CRAWFORD JEFF VOTH JEFF WILSON JESSICA JEAN MARTIN JUSTIN W. COFFEY

LINDI DELPORT MARK HACKING MATTHEW KEITH MATTHEW NEUNDORF MICHAEL LORÉ SCOTT PATRICK COWAN TOVI DELPORT DESIGN & LAYOUT JENNIFER ELIA NEWSSTAND DIRECTOR CRAIG SWEETMAN ADVERTISING INQUIRIES advertising@trqmedia.com PUBLISHER TRQ MEDIA INC

EDITOR IN CHIEF

JEFF VOTH

“Still, round the corner, there may wait, a new road or a secret gate.” – J.R.R. Tolkien

THERE’S SOMETHING UNIQUELY powerful about driving in Canada— something that goes beyond the road beneath your tires or the scenery that rolls past your window. It’s a sense of space, of possibility, and of belonging to a country where every turn holds a story, and every stretch of asphalt is a gateway to discovery. While the lure of far-off places is always strong, sometimes the most memorable adventures happen right here at home. This summer, we’re embracing the idea that staying close doesn’t mean missing out. Quite the opposite—Canada is a driving destination unlike any other. From the rugged coasts of Newfoundland to the sweeping vineyards of British Columbia, the places we live, work, and play are filled with wonder, beauty, and roads begging to be explored. In this issue of Vicarious, we celebrate the thrill of Canadian summer behind the wheel. We head to Mont Tremblant with

the bold and surprisingly agile 2025 Ford Maverick Lobo—a compact pickup that trades pavement for performance at Circuit Mécaglisse and proves that big adventures don’t always require big trucks. We test the limits of the electrifying Lamborghini Revuelto, put the sharp and responsive BMW M4 CS through its paces on the backroads of Niagara, and experience the futuristic luxury of the all-electric Rolls-Royce Black Badge Spectre. These machines don’t just transport—they elevate the journey. Of course, the perfect drive is about more than just horsepower and handling. It’s about the places you stop along the way. Whether it’s sipping Benjamin Bridge Brut on a windswept beach, finding the perfect deli sandwich to pair with a bottle of Beaujolais, or simply pulling over to admire a view that takes your breath away, summer in Canada invites you to savour every moment. This season, we encourage you to explore with intention. Take the long way home. Wander through wine country. Pull off the highway and into a farmers’ market or a small-town café. Because while global adventures will always have their place, there’s something deeply grounding—and undeniably Canadian—about reconnecting with the beauty that surrounds us. Wherever the road takes you this summer, drive with purpose, pause often, and enjoy the richness of the ride. Enjoy the beauty of Canadian summer— while it lasts. Jeff Voth

“From the rugged coasts of Newfoundland to the sweeping vineyards of British Columbia, the places we live, work, and play are filled with wonder, beauty, and roads begging to be explored.”

CONTRIBUTORS

JEFF WILSON

MATTHEW NEUNDORF

Jeff Wilson is a producer with the Emmy-nominated production company Echo Bay Media, known for travel productions like Departures, Descending, Into the Rising Sun, and Over the Horizon, enjoyed around the world on Travel Channel, National Geographic, Netflix, and Discovery, to name a few. The team’s adventures have taken Jeff to Sudan, Djibouti, remote islands in Papua, and motorcycling across the Jordanian desert—although producing a culinary series in a 12th-century French château was decidedly more comfortable. Jeff’s passion for travel is only surpassed by his love of machines. He has spent the past dozen years sharing his award-winning photography and writing about cars, trucks, and motorcycles in several notable online and print publications. When not behind the camera or keyboard, Jeff is happiest behind the handlebars of a motorcycle or the wheel of a sports car, exploring places he’s never been, and immersing himself in local culture and cuisine.

Matt’s happy place is being behind the bars of a motorcycle, panniers dutifully packed with camping gear, and days of winding roads ahead. One part gear-head and one part wanderluster, Matt was naturally drawn to the world of automotive and motorcycle journalism to relay the stories of his travels and the machines that ferried him along the way. Matt has been working in the industry, mostly part-time, for two decades. He cut his editorial teeth working at The Truth About Cars and has been a contributor for The Toronto Star , Gear Patrol , Bike Exif , CraftRad Magazine and, of course, here at VICARIOUS . Born in Scarborough, Matt and his wife have recently moved to Northumberland County and thanks in large part to the amazing, undulating roads that surround them, are never moving back.

PETER BLEAKNEY

Peter Bleakney is a multiple award-winning member of AJAC (Automobile Journalists Association of Canada) and has been writing about cars and car culture for almost thirty years. Originally a long-time contributor to the Toronto Star Wheels section, Peter currently writes for AutoTrader, Post Media, Sharp magazine, Robb Report , and of course VICARIOUS , where in this issue he drives the new Porsche 911 Carrera T and takes us to Wolfsburg for the celebratory 2024 GTI FanFest. When not travelling to far off locals to test vehicles, he works as a professional freelance bass player in the Toronto area, doing theatre, live gigs, recording and his own project, Wolfenboys. Peter is also committed, for better or worse, to keeping his 2001 VW GTI and 2001 Porsche Boxster S on the road forever, which pretty much precludes any notions of slowing down.

JUSTIN W. COFFEY

Justin is a freelance photojournalist and co-creator of WESTx1000, a multimedia company focused on motorcycles, motorsport, and adventure travel. For more than a decade, he has crisscrossed the globe documenting high-speed pursuits and remote landscapes—often with a camera in one hand and a half-eaten Oreo in the other. His work captures the grit, beauty, and absurdity of life on the road. When not chasing the next story, Justin splits his time between Baja California and the American Southwest, where he’s usually found riding his dual-sport motorcycle down a deserted beach or remote dirt trail in search of tacos and trouble. See more of his work at jwcoffey.com.

LINDI DELPORT

BRIAN MAKSE

Lindi is a South African-born singer, award-winning songwriter, voiceover artist, and seasoned magazine contributor with over two decades of experience. Her work spans music, media, and the written word, reflecting a deep passion for storytelling in all its forms. A true global soul, Lindi draws inspiration from international cuisine, diverse cultures, and her love of travel—bringing a rich perspective to everything she creates. She collaborates closely with her artistic family. Her husband, Tovi Delport, is a musician and photographer who contributes to most of her projects, and their nine-year-old daughter Karmin can occasionally be seen reviewing cars online, sharing her parents’ love for the camera and luxury cars.

Brian Makse has spent the better part of the last three decades making cars go fast around racing circuits—and teaching others how to do the same. When not sampling cigars or setting questionable speed records on the Autobahn, he can be found explaining to his YouTube subscribers why his latest automotive dynamics theories make perfect sense. His path from BMX racer to motorsports champion to cigar aficionado isn't what anyone would call normal—but then again, normal people don’t typically win dozens of wheel-to-wheel races and then have the audacity to write about it. When he was born, Brian’s mother drove a small-block Chevelle and his father a vintage Rolls-Royce, which explains both his need for speed and his taste for quality. He writes about cigars like he drives: occasionally brilliant, frequently wrong, and always entertaining.

DRIVER'S SEAT

2025 BMW M4 CS DRIVING ON A FROZEN ROPE

Story by Jeff Voth

Photography by Iain Crawford

DRIVER'S SEAT

THE ROAD UNSPOOLS LIKE A ribbon of green and grey through the Niagara backcountry, morning mist lifting off vineyards and fields like breath exhaled from the land itself. I’m behind the wheel of the 2025 BMW M4 CS, and everything around me feels like it’s moving in slow motion—except the car. The car is alive. Its Frozen Isle of Man Green paint isn’t just a colour—it’s an emotion. In the soft early light, it pulses somewhere between deep emerald and liquid metal, accentuating every muscle and angle sculpted into this coupe’s carbon-fibre- laced silhouette. The air is still cool, but the M4 CS is already warm, eager. I ease into the throttle and feel the engine

awaken, a low snarl turning into a guttural growl as we leave the sleepy town behind and head for open road. There’s a sensation when you drive something truly special—it’s not just power, it’s presence. The twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six under the carbon-fibre hood delivers 543 horses with an urgency that’s somehow both brutal and elegant. At just 2,750 rpm, it’s already shoving 479 pound-feet of torque through the M xDrive system to all four corners. But it never feels like it's fighting the road—it’s interpreting it. In a straight line, it’s shocking. Zero to 100 km/h in 3.4 seconds feels like the Earth is spinning faster under your tires. But

"There’s a sensation

when you drive something truly special—it’s not just power, it’s presence."

in Niagara, it’s the corners where the M4 CS earns your respect. The roads here are imperfect: tight sweepers between orchards, quick transitions through the escarpment, dips and crests that test everything. And yet the chassis remains unflappable, the M Adaptive suspension filtering out noise but not feel, the Servotronic steering reading my inputs with eerie precision. Lightweight, agile, fierce—every ounce shed from the frame matters. BMW has shaved more than 32 kg from the standard M4 Competition by layering carbon fibre into the roof, hood, front splitter, rear diffuser, even the seat shells. It’s obsessive, but the result is clarity. Every gram has been considered, and the car feels surgically sharp without sacrificing soul.

DRIVER'S SEAT

The titanium exhaust cracks and pops behind me, a metallic symphony echoing off vineyard fences as I brake late into a blind right-hander. The Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2s stick hard, the forged alloy wheels telegraphing every nuance of the pavement back through the Alcantara-wrapped wheel. There’s joy in this—pure, unfiltered, driver-to-machine communication. Inside, the cabin is more race suit than lounge, but still unmistakably premium. The M Sport seats grip with purpose, dressed in Merino leather and Alcantara, trimmed with more carbon fibre that shimmers under the wide, curved glass of the iDrive 8.5 system. A 14.9-inch touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital cluster offer all the information I need, but none of it distracts. The real data is in the tension of the wheel, the pitch of the engine, the blur of vines in my peripheral vision.

"There’s joy in this—pure, unfiltered, driver- to-machine communication."

"There’s a reason this isn’t just another fast BMW. It’s the feel. The emotion. The way it turns a drive through Niagara into a transcendental experience."

I pull over at a small ridge overlooking Lake Ontario. The sun has fully risen now, igniting the water with fire and turning the M4 CS’s Frozen Isle of Man Green into something that looks hand-painted by gods. I step out, heart still racing, and look back at the car. There’s a reason this isn’t just another fast BMW. It’s the feel. The emotion. The way it turns a drive through Niagara into a transcendental experience. The M4 CS doesn’t just perform—it connects. And once you’ve felt it, there’s no going back.

Be sure to check out Vicariousmag.com for the latest news and reviews!

Photo by Justin W. Coffey

“The journey isn’t straight—and that’s where the joy is!” ~ Unknown

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DISCOVERED

2025 DAKAR RALLY DUST IN THE WIND

Story and Photography

Justin W. Coffey

DISCOVERED

"One moment you're questioning whether killing yourself might be the best way to end the suffering, and the next you're in the shadow of an immense geological formation, on what feels like a distant celestial body, unable to imagine a place in our universe you'd rather be."

“Dakar is all about counting…” Days, dunes, and disappearing light. The story in print is just the beginning.

Scan here to access an exclusive online photo essay by Justin W. Coffey — raw moments and off-camera beauty that capture the soul of the 2025 Dakar Rally. A companion visual journey you won’t see anywhere else. Only at Vicariousmag.com

CHASING THE DAKAR RALLY MAY be the most intense emotional rollercoaster anyone can experience. One moment you're questioning whether killing yourself might be the best way to end the suffering, and the next you're in the shadow of an immense geological formation, on what feels like a distant celestial body, unable to imagine a place in our universe you'd rather be. The highs are very high; however, the lows can be soul crushing. Three meals a day in a massive mess hall with 3000 other weary racers, crew members, media personnel and the like, all suffering together. A collective conscious. Emotions run high on both ends of the

spectrum. There's constant noise, too. A buzzing in your ears. Generators and race engines, people shouting and public service announcements leave you feeling a little concussed. All this and we haven't even left the first bivouac. The days grow longer. Sleep is a commodity that can't be traded or acquired. You have to take what you can get - cat naps in the Land Cruiser as you transit to the shakedown course. Some days you find yourself standing, asleep in the sun, eyes closed, waiting for that familiar sound of a four-stroke dirt bike at full tap. By the time we reach the halfway point of this godforsaken race, hundreds of racers

DISCOVERED

will be on their way home, defeated by the brutality of the desert, the prolonged stages, the ever-changing conditions. At that point, a decent night’s rest is a distant memory, and those three meals, that lukewarm Pepsi and the lamb kabob, are the solace you seek at the end of yet another day at the Dakar Rally. "Dakar is all about counting... You count down the days until it begins, then you count the days until it's over." Numbers seem to rule the world these days. Followers and likes and shares and click through rates. As photographers and journalists, we work tirelessly to ensure racers have content to share with their respective communities. Post to their profiles. Snapshots of the Special Stage. Moments caught on camera, lasting a lifetime. But the reality is, these are fleeting feelings, disappearing into the darkness that is the internet and it's seemingly insatiable appetite for images and information. The sun is just starting to swell, stretching her big yellow belly out across the horizon. The sand shifting from black

"By the time we reach the

halfway point of this godforsaken race, hundreds of racers will be on their way home, defeated by the brutality of the desert, the prolonged stages, the ever-changing conditions."

to beige, and then a pale pink as her glow emanates across the sky. Edo is at the wheel, and we're moving quickly across the desert, dancing the old Prado down a dirt road, the tracks barely visible in the low morning light. It's 6:30am and we've been up since shortly before five. The truck is loaded with four photographers, racing across this heartless landscape to get out ahead of Ricky and Skyler and Mason and Ross. All the racers whose social media feeds we will be producing images for - vignettes into their lives here at the Dakar Rally - a quick look at their Stage result, and then you swipe onward, to the next channel, the next content creator, the next racer. In a century that seems obsessed with making sure nothing stays the same, or nothing sticks around, the legacy we leave on this sport through our photography may get lost in the bulging oculus that we see the world through nowadays. Everything disappears. Swipe right for the next post. Scroll past and carry on. Dust in the wind, or whatever....

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ROADSIDE CHIC

WHERE TO STAY

ROADSIDE CHIC is all about finding those hidden gems—the places that provide a perfect balance of comfort, luxury, exceptional service, and the opportunity to do as much or as little as you want. Summer invites the spirit of escape—longer days, sun-soaked horizons, and the perfect chance to uncover that next hidden gem of a hotel or resort. In this issue of Roadside Chic, we explore two destinations where timeless beauty meets modern indulgence: Abu Dhabi, with its rising cultural cachet and quiet luxury, and Maui, where iconic resorts and barefoot beach elegance continue to captivate. From desert serenity to oceanfront calm, these are the places redefining where your summer story begins.

Story: Lindi Delport Photography: Tovi Delport

Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi Perched along a private stretch of white- sand beach overlooking the tranquil straits of Abu Dhabi, the Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri is more than a luxury hotel—it’s an experience that lingers long after you leave. From the moment you’re welcomed at the grand entrance, it’s clear this is a place where impeccable service meets authentic Arabian elegance. The architecture is a beautiful fusion of traditional Arabic design and modern luxury. Rooms are breathtaking, wrapped in warm tones and natural textures, with every detail curated for comfort. Step out onto your private balcony and you’re met with sweeping ocean views that are nothing short of jaw-dropping. Luxury bedding, 24-hour room service, and meticulous daily housekeeping round out an experience of seamless indulgence.

A standout highlight is CHI, the hotel’s serene spa, which features an array of holistic treatments and tranquil outdoor pools. Whether you’re unwinding with a massage or lounging by the water, relaxation is guaranteed. Dining is a world-class affair. Sofra BLD offers all-day dining with a vibrant mix of live cooking stations and regional delicacies—don’t miss the authentic Arabic and Asian dishes. For a fine dining experience, Bord Eau, helmed by

Michelin-starred chef Nicolas Isnard, presents a refined take on French cuisine— his artichoke soup and Chilean sea bass are unforgettable. At Shang Palace, a tableside duck carving ritual and delicate dim sum redefine Chinese dining in the UAE. In a city of wonders, few experiences rival the hotel’s traditional Arabic gondola ride—opt for a sunrise breakfast cruise or a golden-hour sunset glide through the serene waterways for something truly magical. As the sun dips below the horizon, Amalfi Beach Lounge beckons with handcrafted cocktails inspired by Italy’s Amalfi Coast, all enjoyed with ocean views and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque mesmerizing you across the strait. It’s easy to forget there’s an entire city to explore when the hotel itself is so enchanting. But when you do venture out, Abu Dhabi offers rich cultural experiences, world-class museums, and vibrant souks. Our advice? Stay longer—you’ll want more time to soak it all in. With unmatched service, exquisite design, and an atmosphere of effortless luxury, Shangri-La Abu Dhabi sets the standard for five-star hospitality in the UAE. This isn’t just a stay—it’s a story you’ll want to tell again and again. Khor Al Maqta,Qaryat al Beri, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates www.shangri-la.com/abudhabi/shangrila/

"As the sun dips below the horizon, Amalfi Beach Lounge beckons with handcrafted cocktails inspired by Italy’s Amalfi Coast, all enjoyed with ocean

views and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

mesmerizing you across the strait.”

ROADSIDE CHIC

Story: Allison Nguyen

Fairmont Kea Lani From the moment you arrive at the Fairmont Kea Lani, there’s a noticeable shift in pace. Set along the golden shores of Wailea in South Maui, the resort mirrors the island’s peaceful rhythm. Guests are welcomed with a fragrant lei and cool passionfruit juice in the open-air lobby, where the Pacific Ocean glimmers just beyond the arches and polished stone floors. The Kea Lani is Hawaii’s only all-suite oceanfront resort, and the extra space makes a big impression. Suites are airy and bright, done in soft neutrals with island- inspired textures and art. Each includes a private lanai—ours had panoramic views of the Pacific—and details like his-and- hers vanities, a deep soaking tub, and a rain shower. The beachfront villas, ideal for families or groups, evoke a chic, almost Grecian vibe. It’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down and enjoy the view, coffee in hand. Across the property, the vibe is elevated but never flashy. Immaculate grounds with plumeria trees, tiki torches, and palm-lined paths connect the buildings and amenities. Three swimming pools offer something for every traveller: a quiet adults-only pool with oversized loungers and shaded cabanas, a dedicated kids’ pool, and a large main pool with a waterslide that’s a hit with families. Service is consistently warm, intuitive, and never overbearing. Staff members are quick with a smile, whether delivering chilled water poolside or sharing a tip on where to snorkel or catch the best sunset. That balance of polish and approachability is what makes the Kea Lani stand out. Dining is equally impressive. The Kea Lani Restaurant offers a generous breakfast buffet with tropical fruit, banana bread, Portuguese sausage, and macadamia nut pancakes. Ko, the resort’s signature restaurant, draws inspiration from Hawaii’s plantation history. Highlights include braised short ribs, fresh island catch, and ahi on the half shell. Cocktails feature local ingredients like lavender, lilikoi, and fresh

"Evenings are especially magical. The Wailea Beach Path provides a scenic walk along the coastline, where the sky shifts from gold to soft lavender as the sun dips behind the islands. "

herbs—we paired a classic margarita with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc from their well- curated wine list. Beyond the resort, visitors can wander through the shops at Wailea or head into nearby Kihei for a more laid-back vibe. Polo Beach, just steps away, offers soft sand, gentle surf, and often, sea turtles just offshore. The beach is clean, accessible, and rarely crowded—perfect for unhurried days in the sun. For those looking for more activity, the options are plentiful—paddleboarding, outrigger canoe excursions, spa treatments, and guided cultural experiences. But the true luxury of the Kea Lani may lie in how effortless it is to do absolutely nothing. The resort gently encourages stillness, making it easy to unplug without guilt. Evenings are especially magical. The Wailea Beach Path provides a scenic walk along the coastline, where the sky shifts from gold to soft lavender as the sun dips behind the islands. Live Hawaiian music near the pool bar adds a laid-back ambiance that never feels forced or overly programmed.

What truly sets the Fairmont Kea Lani apart is its ability to feel both expansive and intimate. There’s room to explore, but also plenty of private corners to retreat. The resort respects the landscape it inhabits and reflects the calm, easygoing nature of the island itself. Whether it’s your first trip to Maui or a return visit for a much-needed reset, the Fairmont Kea Lani delivers a thoughtful, genuinely Hawaiian experience—one defined by space, serenity, and service. It’s a place where you breathe a little deeper, move a little slower, and simply enjoy being exactly where you are. 4100 Wailea Alanui Dr, Wailea-Makena, Hawaii, United States www.fairmont.com/en/hotels/hawaii-maui/ fairmont-kea-lani.html

ROADSIDE CHIC

kitchens—ideal for longer stays or those who prefer to self-cater. With views of both Lanai and Molokai, the daily whale sightings made for the perfect morning coffee. The star of the show is Napili Bay itself—a postcard-perfect crescent of golden sand bordered by rocky outcrops and calm, turquoise water. The beach is swimmable year-round, with excellent snorkelling just offshore and frequent sightings of sea turtles and tropical fish. There are no large crowds here, no beach vendors or noisy watercraft—just soft sand, gentle waves, and the occasional paddleboarder gliding past. While the property doesn’t have the expansive amenities of a major resort, it offers plenty to keep guests entertained. Guests are encouraged to use the hotel equipment free of charge. There are four small pools, a hot tub, putting green, shuffleboard court, and daily coffee service with fresh pineapple available each morning by the main pool. Guests gather on the lawn at dusk to watch the tiki torches light up and the sun drop below the horizon—one of those simple rituals that define a stay here.

Napili Kai Beach Resort Tucked into a quiet cove on Maui’s northwest coast, Napili Kai Beach Resort offers a refreshingly unpretentious take on island hospitality. With low-rise buildings, oceanfront lawns, and direct access to one of the island’s most beloved beaches, this long-standing West Maui property prioritizes location, hospitality, and laid- back charm over flash or fuss. Originally opened in the 1960s, the resort has stayed true to its roots while gradually updating rooms and amenities to meet modern expectations. What it lacks in trend-driven luxury, it more than makes up for in authenticity and warmth. The atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly, but equally appealing for couples or solo travellers looking for a quieter Maui experience. Accommodations are spread across multiple plantation-style buildings that blend into the landscape rather than dominate it. Most units have ocean views and private lanais, with front-row seats to some of the best sunsets on the island. Rooms are spacious and comfortable, featuring traditional Hawaiian décor, ceiling fans, and small kitchenettes or full

Story: Allison Nguyen

Dining is centred around the Sea House Restaurant, an open-air, oceanfront spot that’s popular with guests and locals alike. Breakfast is especially worth lingering over—try the macadamia nut pancakes or the crab cake Benedict with a cup of locally roasted coffee. At dinner, the menu leans into fresh seafood, local produce, and island-inspired flavours, with the setting making every meal feel like a special occasion.

What makes Napili Kai especially appealing is how unplugged it feels. There’s no resort fee, no valet parking, and no pressure to plan your day around activities or itineraries. The staff is friendly and unobtrusive, many of them long-time employees who know the property well and are quick with a recommendation or a story. It’s the kind of place where guests return year after year, often booking their next stay before checking out. For those who want to explore beyond the resort, Kapalua Bay is a short walk away, and the scenic Kapalua Coastal Trail offers easy hiking with stunning ocean views. A short drive brings you to Lahaina or Ka'anapali for more dining, shopping, and excursions—but it’s just as easy to spend your entire trip within a few square blocks of Napili Bay. Napili Kai isn’t trying to be trendy or indulgent—it’s comfortable, classic Maui. It offers a quieter rhythm, a direct connection to nature, and a reminder that some of the best travel experiences come from simplicity done well. If you’re looking for a beachfront stay that trades glamour for authenticity, this might be one of the island’s best-kept secrets.

5900 Lower Honoapiilani Rd, Lahaina, Hawaii, United States www.napilikai.com

PIN HIGH

GOLF AS LIFE

Story I

Michael LoRé

GOLF ISN’T JUST A GAME. Nor is it solely a sport. It’s a lifestyle. It’s an obsession. It’s a way of life. From its earliest roots in Scotland to today’s technology-backed iterations, golf represents something unique to each person who has ever picked up a club. Golf can offer a much-needed reprieve from the modern-day rat race. It can provide valuable quality time among family and friends. It can scratch a competitive itch, especially for former athletes. It can be a never-ending quest for perfection. Ultimately, golf is the great equalizer. Whether your annual salary is $3 million or $30,000, you’re a famous actor or Kindergarten teacher, or are from Toronto or Timbuktu, golf doesn’t discriminate. Golf is man vs. nature. Nothing more. Nothing less. I first started playing in high school, not only because I wasn’t good at baseball, but because I knew golf would be a valuable tool later in life, regardless of what profession I got into. Hardly a new or unique perspective, I’m glad I picked up that old set of Spalding Executives from my friend’s father and began my life-long relationship with golf. Like many, the game has periodically come in and out of my life, but it’s always there in the background. Golf triumphantly returned to the forefront for me personally and professionally over recent years. Golf granted us an escape from so much uncertainty during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic and we haven’t looked back. As spring arrives in 2025, golf is more popular than ever. Not only is the game growing, but it’s evolving and changing. Your stereotypical golfer of yesteryear is now the minority, with influences injected into the sport, culture and fashion from far beyond the clubhouse. Golf is cool. Golf

is young. Golf is diverse. Sure, some still believe golf should be played at a country club with tucked in collared shirts and stiff khakis, but opportunities created by venues including Topgolf, Five Iron and PopStroke are introducing millions of non-golfers to the sport in once-unimaginable ways. One side isn’t right, nor is the other wrong. Your relationship to golf is just that— yours—and it may differ from someone else’s. At the end of the day, we’re all trying our hardest to conquer the unconquerable, one stroke at a time.

ABOUT MICHAEL LORÉ Michael LoRé is an award-winning journalist based in New York City. With more than 15 years of experience as a writer and editor, Michael has worked

for daily newspapers, pro sports teams/leagues and online media startups. Having covered anything and everything from the World Series to surfing in Bali, Michael has honed his focus to covering and promoting the two sports he played growing up and is most passionate about: soccer and golf. A better writer than athlete, Michael’s work can be seen in publications including: The Guardian, PGATOUR.com, GOLF. com, Forbes SportsMoney, MyGolfSpy, Robb Report, Kingdom Magazine, Essential Golf, AZ Golf Insider, and Travel + Leisure . During his time covering golf, Michael has interviewed some of the game’s biggest stars including Rory McIlroy, Scottie Scheffler, Michelle Wie West, Justin Thomas, Xander Schauffele, Annika Sorenstam, Collin Morikawa, Lydia Ko and Bryson DeChambeau. Even more fortunate to travel the world to play some of the best courses on the planet, Michael has hacked it up at St. Andrews, Pinehurst, TPC Sawgrass, Cabot Cape Breton, Bay Hill and Kapalua.

opened in 2006. Costing approximately $250 million, Liberty National is one of the most expensive golf courses in history. Not only does it boast that distinction, but the course owned by former Reebok chairman and CEO Paul Fireman and his son Dan Fireman, features unmatched views of Lower Manhattan, the Hudson River and the aforementioned Statue of Liberty. A top-15 course in New Jersey and prior top-200 U.S. course according to Golf Digest, Liberty National has been the host of the LPGA’s Mizuho Americas Open since 2023 and has also been the site of the 2017 Presidents Cup and FedExCup Playoffs in 2009, ’13, ’19 and ’21. I’ve been fortunate to play the course twice: once for the 2024 Eastside Golf Invitational and most recently for the 2025 Mizuho Americas Open media day. This pricy reclamation project is worth every penny as you navigate the course designed by renowned golf course architect Bob Cupp with assistance from 1992 U.S. Open champion Tom Kite. Relish in the Manhattan skyline as you tee off on the par-3 4th hole, get up close and personal with the Statue of Liberty on

"Hop aboard the ship with your sticks from Lower Manhattan and enjoy a scenic 15-minute cruise across the Hudson River with a cameo from Lady Liberty herself before being dropped off just steps from Liberty GC’s clubhouse."

Liberty National Golf Club (Jersey City, N.J.)

Golfing in New York City is an adventure. Typically having to rely on public transportation or rideshare just to get to a course on the outskirts of the city or in nearby New Jersey, Connecticut or Long Island, golf in NYC is an exercise in patience, logistics and time management. But it isn’t all that bad. In fact, there’s one nearby course that’s accessible without having to brave the subway, bus, traffic, tolls or congestion pricing. While you can get to Liberty National Golf Club in Jersey City, N.J., by driving, you can—and should—take the ferry instead. Hop aboard the ship with your sticks from Lower Manhattan and enjoy a scenic 15-minute cruise across the Hudson River with a cameo from Lady Liberty herself before being dropped off just steps from Liberty GC’s clubhouse. Yes, I know Liberty GC is a private club, but that doesn’t mean you won’t ever be invited there or potentially attend a golf tournament at the 7,387-yard course

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your approach into the par-5 13th green, stop for a photo with the river and city in the background on the signature 14th hole, and soak it all in one last time walking up the 18th fairway with the Big Apple and clubhouse in the background. Don’t forget to cap off your experience with a return ferry ride back to Manhattan.

Verdura Resort

set the scene for what was to come at Verdura Resort. Rocco Forte’s flagship resort, Verdura sits on nearly 570 acres of olive groves and Sicilian countryside while bordering 1.2 miles of Mediterranean. Verdura Resort is home to two golf courses: Verdura West Shore and Verdura East Links. Playing the East Links first, this course shines on the front-9. Starting adjacent to the driving range with a bit of a blind tee shot, the stretch from holes 5-8 are its hallmark. After an inviting tee shot into a wide fairway on No. 5, the Mediterranean sits on the horizon behind an elevated green. Soak in the surrounding sea on a short par-4 6th before an uphill par-3 7th and generous par-5 8th. Never

Verdura Resort (Sicily, Italy) It was my first time flying Ryanair. The popular European budget airline was exactly what you expect, nothing more and nothing less: you have a seat on the plane and everything else costs extra. As I sat patiently during the three-hour flight from London to Palermo, I couldn’t wait to deplane and stretch my legs in Sicily. Not only was it my first time in Italy, but I was there to play golf along the Mediterranean Sea. Is this flight over yet?! Finally, off the plane and onboard a shuttle to the Italian island’s southwest coast, we passed endless amounts of olive groves, farmland and cottages that only

"Verdura Resort is home to two golf courses: Verdura West Shore and Verdura East Links."

straying too far from the sea, East Links is a test of strategy and accuracy amid craftily placed bunkers. Like its counterpart, Verdura West Shore is a round of accuracy and strategy amid Mediterranean winds. Winding back and forth through the property’s estate, West Shore stands out from East Links—and countless other courses—with its crescendo along the water for the final six holes. Playing back and forth along the Mediterranean from holes 13-18, the signature hole is the par-4 14th that hugs the sea, so be sure to keep your ball left. A pair of par-3s (holes 15 and 17) make the final stretch even more fun, though be cautious of gusting winds from the water. A “Pebble Beach-esque” closing hole caps this breathtaking stretch of Sicilian splendor that can only be celebrated with wine and fresh seafood as you soak in the sunset and count your scorecard.

"Winding back and forth through the property’s estate, West Shore stands out from East Links—and countless other courses—with its crescendo along the water for the final six holes."

PAIRED FOR THE COURSE WHAT’S NEW IN GOLF APPAREL AND ACCESSORIES

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Johnnie-O 20th Anniversary Cotton Polo John O’Donnell initially launched

LA Golf Driver Who doesn’t want to drive the ball like Bryson DeChambeau? Despite being one of the more polarizing people in professional golf today, we can all appreciate DeChambeau’s dominance off the tee and his obsessive tinkering and testing in

Johnnie-O in 2005 as a passion project that blended West Coast casual with East Coast prep to address a gap in the apparel

market. The brand’s first product, a four-button, 100% cotton polo, is back

for a limited time to celebrate Johnnie-O’s 20th anniversary. Available in Vista Blue, Cubbie Blue and Watermelon, this polo ($89 USD) featuring the brand’s signature surfer logo “can take

an effort to refine his game. Not only does the man nicknamed “The Mad Scientist” seek to boost his game, he’s now helping amateurs improve theirs with a new driver co-designed with LA Golf. Featuring Face ID technology, the driver ($649+ USD) introduces a patented fitting system that matches both the face and shaft to your swing speed in an effort to cut down on side spin and make even your misses go straighter.

a hit, ages beautifully and only gets better and softer with every wash.” It’s great for the golf course, beach and anywhere in between.

FootJoy Legends Series In case you didn’t know, FootJoy has been the No. 1 shoe in golf the past 80 years. Despite being

more than a century old, the Acushnet- owned brand doesn’t just rely on its past and name recognition for continued success as today’s game continues to grow, evolve and diversify. The Legends Series ($245 USD) is a prime example of FootJoy paying homage to its unmatched history while appealing to golfers of today. Each limited-edition style of the popular Premiere Series features unique patterns and colors to celebrate each of this year’s majors, while a subtle “1945” on the inside heel notes the first year the brand took over as the most popular shoe on tour. Why collect Pokémon cards when you can collect the Legends Series from FootJoy?

WMP Eyewear Fairway Collection Sun’s out, golf’s out. While you probably can’t showcase your “guns” on the course, you can still take advantage of the beautiful weather this time of year by getting in as many rounds as possible. While the warm and bright sun makes for an enjoyable round, it can also make it difficult depending on if it’s glaring in your face. That’s why WMP Eyewear released its Fairway Collection with 2023 U.S. Open champion Wyndham Clark. Featuring a variety of styles and colors, the Fairway Collection ($65 USD) will keep you fashionable on and off the golf course at an affordable price

FIRST DRIVE 2025 PORSCHE 911 CARRERA S FIRST DRIVE 2025 FORD MAVERICK LOBO FIRST DRIVE 2025 ROLLS-ROYCE BLACK BADGE SPECTRE FEATURED CAR 2025 LEXUS LC 500

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