Page 28 - OCEAN BLUE - WINTER 2013

GUEST CONTRIBUTORS

Michael
Albanese

Michael Albanese’s passion for writing led him Alfonso Vera Cantú
to the hospitality industry where he worked
in New York City’s most famed boutique Before Alfonso turned 20 he had visited more places than Vasco
hotels and restaurants. It was there that he da Gama, Marco Polo and Magellan together. He’s lived both as
embraced the magic created when combining Benedictine and a Buddhist monk. Became an apprentice to an
the aesthetics of quality and service. Michael Andean shaman, a Moroccan storyteller, and a Balinese witch
joined the Members-only lifestyle management doctor. An award winner publicist and writer, a radio and TV
firm, Mint, where he gained the invaluable host, a columnist and a luxury travel connoisseur.
skills, and client relationships that helped him
co-found Element in 2009, a private lifestyle Alfonso is a true world citizen with a global mission: celebrate
and travel-consulting firm in Los Angeles. diversity and share the most unique and authentic experiences.

Jesús (Chucho) Melina
Solórzano Deyá

Jesús Solórzano, a native of Mexico City is a
descendant of bullfighters. In 1992 he made
his debut as a polo player in México, where he
competed in international tournaments and
became a member of México’s Polo team.
Jesús says: “For me, polo is a lifestyle where you
have contact with nature, chemistry with the
animals, and sport. I am grateful polo came into
my life and I have the motivation to promote it
and help make it known worldwide.”

Melina Deyá grew up in Puerto Rico and came to photography
by way of music. She studied classical guitar at the age of 14
and soon her creative expression evolved into visual ideas.
Music gave way to photography. As photography evolved into
the digital medium, she dove in headfirst and began to decipher
it with insatiable curiosity. She became an expert in Photoshop
while running her own post-production business. Since then,
she has become a full-time Fashion Photographer.

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