{"id":39269,"date":"2026-02-18T10:01:52","date_gmt":"2026-02-18T09:01:52","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/magazine.luxus-plus.com\/?p=39269"},"modified":"2026-02-26T18:29:50","modified_gmt":"2026-02-26T17:29:50","slug":"an-iconic-stopover-cortina-dampezzo","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/magazine.luxus-plus.com\/en\/an-iconic-stopover-cortina-dampezzo\/","title":{"rendered":"An iconic stopover\u2026 Cortina d’Ampezzo"},"content":{"rendered":"

Once a month, Luxus Magazine sets sail for a destination in France or elsewhere to discover the most elegant addresses, all carefully selected. Characterful hotels, fine dining, rare boutiques, cultural getaways… Our guide is a treasure trove for discerning travelers. After Mauritius, it’s time for Cortina d’Ampezzo, a ski resort, host of the 2026 Winter Olympics, and nicknamed the pearl or queen of the Dolomites.<\/p>\n

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Cortina d’Ampezzo<\/strong> has been a prestigious Alpine resort since the 19th century, popular with a wealthy international clientele. Surrounded by iconic peaks, it hosted the 1956 Winter Olympics and is co-hosting the 2026 Games, which will take place from February 6 to 22, further enhancing its global reputation. Between Ladin traditions<\/strong>, post-war aristocracy<\/strong>, and contemporary glamour<\/strong>, Cortina symbolizes Italian Alpine elegance. Its history is marked by a cosmopolitan culture where sport, lifestyle, and spectacular landscapes come together in rare harmony.<\/p>\n

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\ud83d\udd11<\/strong> Historical key: a multicultural past<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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Travel poster for Cortina d’Ampezzo in the 20’s @ DR<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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Cortina d’Ampezzo has been a prestigious Alpine resort since the 19th century, popular with a wealthy international clientele. Surrounded by iconic peaks, it already hosted the 1956 Winter Olympics and is co-hosting the 2026 Games, which will take place from February 6 to 22, reinforcing its global aura. Between Ladin traditions<\/b>, post-war aristocracy<\/b>, and contemporary glamour<\/b>, Cortina symbolizes Italian Alpine elegance. Its history is marked by a cosmopolitan culture where sport, lifestyle, and spectacular landscapes come together in rare harmony.<\/p>\n

The village of Cortina d’Ampezzo is nestled at an altitude of 1,210 meters in the heart of the Italian Alps in northern Italy, in the Veneto region. Like the Dolomite mountain range, it is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for the beauty of its landscapes. Inhabited since prehistoric times, the Ampezzo Valley developed in the Middle Ages under the influence of the patriarchs, bishops, and archbishops of Aquileia, before coming under Austrian rule for centuries. This long period of belonging to Tyrol has had a profound impact on its culture, Ladin language, and architecture. Its inhabitants claim to belong to the Ladin culture<\/b>, speak the language, and cultivate a sense of identity reflected in their flag: blue like the sky, white like snow, and gray like the rock standing vertically in a breathtaking landscape. The surrounding hamlets are home to the chalets of the great Agnelli, Benetton, Barilla, and Illy families, the spearheads of transalpine high society.<\/p>\n

After World War I, Cortina became Italian, ushering in a new era. In the 20th century, the town was transformed into a prestigious Alpine resort, welcoming artists, aristocrats, and travelers from all over the world. The 1956 Winter Olympics <\/b>cemented its international reputation, to the point that it was featured in Blake Edwards’ 1963 film The Pink Panther<\/i><\/b> and became a hot spot for the international jet set<\/b>, alongside Gstaad, Courchevel, and Zermatt. In her best-selling crime novel, The Talented Mr. Ripley<\/i><\/b> (1955), novelist Patricia Highsmith<\/b> makes sure to mention millionaire Dickie Greenleaf’s winter habits in the charming Italian resort. Between pink peaks at sunset, mountain traditions, and discreet elegance, Cortina embodies a rare balance between spectacular nature and art de vivre. Even today, it continues to fascinate with its cosmopolitan history and unique Alpine identity.<\/p>\n

\ud83d\udd11<\/strong> Key to sleep: the Ancora Cortina<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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Lounge area @ Ancora Cortina hotel<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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In Cortina d’Ampezzo, sleep becomes a cultural experience at the Ancora Cortina, a reinvented local icon. Founded in 1826 and revived in 2025 under the impetus of Renzo Rosso <\/strong>– already owner of the Pelican Hotel in Miami and the Chiltern Firehouse in London – the founder of the OTB group (Diesel, Maison Margiela, Marni, etc.) has restored this institution on Corso Italia to its former glory by combining heritage and modernity. The interior design, created by Vicky Charles<\/strong>, weaves a subtle link between Alpine heritage and international elegance. The 35 rooms and suites, each one unique, combine noble materials, warm colors, and distinctive details. More than a hotel, the Ancora feels like a home, intimate and vibrant.<\/p>\n

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\ud83d\udd11<\/strong> Key to the soul: Baroque church<\/strong><\/h3>\n

In the center of Cortina d’Ampezzo, the magnificent Baroque church<\/strong>, elevated to the rank of basilica by Benedict XVI, imposes its serenity, flanked by a majestic bell tower watching over the narrow streets. Walking here, you can feel the Alpine soul: living traditions, the gentleness of everyday life, and a deep connection to the mountains. Between ringing bells and colorful facades, each step reveals the quiet poetry and timeless identity of Cortina, between heritage, spirituality, and natural harmony.<\/p>\n

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\ud83d\udd11 Key to\u00a0<\/strong>the dawn walk: the Dolomites trail<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Between winter and summer, Cortina is an incomparable natural playground. In winter, its Olympic slopes and ski areas attract skiers and powder enthusiasts. In summer, the Dolomites trails<\/strong> offer scenic hikes, alpine lakes, and breathtaking views for nature lovers. Culture, museums, and local heritage complete the picture, with spectacular views of the unique rock formations that have made the Dolomites world-famous.<\/p>\n

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\ud83d\udd11<\/strong> Style key: AE7 by Emporio Armani<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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Italian Olympic’s team official outfit @ DR<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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For the Winter Olympics, AE7 by Emporio Armani<\/strong> will have the honor of dressing all Italian athletes, offering an elegant blend of sports technology and Italian sophistication.\u00a0The collection, mainly in black and white, combines sweatpants with mini logos on the sides, technical knit tops with snowflake patterns, zippered hoodies with tricolor funnel necks, and signature accessories (headbands, caps, beanies).<\/p>\n

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\ud83d\udd11<\/strong> Key to strolling: La Cooperativa di Cortina<\/strong><\/h3>\n

No stroll through Cortina would be complete without a visit to the Cooperativa di Cortina<\/strong>, a veritable institution in the heart of the resort. Halfway between an Alpine department store and a local hangout, it offers a delightful mix of artisanal products (vacuum-packed cheeses and charcuterie, breads) and iconic souvenirs -mugs, slippers adorned with the unmistakable squirrel, as well as traditional clothing such as Tyrolean skirts and velvet pants – and more refined items. Tableware sits alongside a carefully curated selection of home accessories, while upstairs, all the ski and mountain equipment meets the demands of discerning enthusiasts. On the roof, on the fourth floor, the restaurant The Roof<\/strong> Cortina <\/strong>has recently opened under the direction of chef Graziano Prest<\/strong>, already awarded a Michelin star for the restaurant Tivoli Cortina.<\/p>\n

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\ud83d\udd11<\/strong> Sweet tip: the pasticceria Panificio Alvera<\/strong><\/h3>\n

In Cortina d’Ampezzo, afternoon tea is a ritual that is as elegant as it is comforting. Founded in 1914, the Pasticceria Panificio Alver\u00e0<\/strong> embodies this moment suspended between tradition and modernity. Under the impetus of chef Massimo Alver\u00e0<\/strong>, the place has been given a contemporary, almost theatrical aesthetic, where desserts are presented like jewels. Strudel and Sacher cake recall the resort’s Austro-Hungarian roots. A few steps away, the more popular and cheerful Lovat brings locals and skiers together around fritelle, Venetian doughnuts, and ricotta sfogliatelle.<\/p>\n

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\ud83d\udd11<\/strong> Key to lunch in town: Alajmo Cortina<\/strong><\/h3>\n

For lunch in town, Alajmo Cortina<\/strong> is a refined address where the culinary heritage of Padua’s three-star chef Massimiliano Alajmo<\/strong> meets the Alpine soul. Housed in the former premises of the legendary El Toul\u00e0, this three-story restaurant offers contemporary and inventive cuisine focused on local produce and enriched with surprising touches such as cappuccino alla bolognese and pizza al vapore with bottarga.<\/p>\n

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\ud83d\udd11 The key to a gourmet lunch at altitude: SanBrite<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Perched high above Cortina, the SanBrite restaurant<\/strong> offers an exceptional lunch at altitude. Led by chef Riccardo Gaspari<\/strong> and his wife Ludovica Rubbini<\/strong>, a talented sommelier, the establishment combines expertise and a committed philosophy, rewarded with a Michelin star and its green label for sustainability. The cuisine draws on the treasures of the region: dairy products from their Piccolo Brite dairy, homemade butter, and mature cheeses. Among the must-try dishes, Pino Mugo – pasta flavored with mountain pine oil -symbolizes the finesse and authenticity of a meal suspended between sky and peaks.<\/p>\n

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\ud83d\udd11<\/strong> The key to a festive and chic break: Super G<\/strong><\/h3>\n

In Cortina d’Ampezzo, Super G<\/strong> embodies the spirit of Italian apr\u00e8s-ski, joyful and stylish. Located at the foot of the Funivia Faloria cable car, the venue has imported its festive concept, already proven in other Alpine resorts. Here, you can effortlessly move from the self-service counter for a hot panini to the vibrant terrace, where a DJ spins a sunny soundtrack to accompany chilled spritzes. Those who linger can sit down at the restaurant for comforting cuisine, with Milanese risotto at the top of the menu. A relaxed, chic and decidedly convivial break.<\/p>\n

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\ud83d\udd11<\/strong> The key to sensory well-being: the spa at the Hotel de Len<\/strong><\/h3>\n

In Cortina d’Ampezzo, relaxation reaches new heights at the spa of the Hotel de Len<\/strong>. Completely renovated in 2022 by the Venetian agency Gris+Dainese Architetti<\/strong>, this contemporary retreat reinterprets the mountain hotel with mineral and woody elegance. Also open to non-guests, the sixth-floor spa extends this refined aesthetic: a salt sauna, classic sauna, hammam, and ice fountain make up a complete sensory experience. The highlight of the experience is the outdoor pool heated to 38\u00b0C overlooking the valley. A private place that can be reserved for a suspended aperitif.<\/p>\n

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\ud83d\udd11<\/strong> Key to Italian shopping: Rua Corso Italia<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Corso Italia<\/strong>, Cortina’s main thoroughfare, is a sophisticated shopping destination where local boutiques and prestigious brands coexist. Here you will find chic Alpine fashion, traditional items, and artisanal creations typical of the Ampezzo Valley. The boutiques offer high-end clothing, mountain accessories, jewelry, and elegant gifts, perfect for extending the Cortina experience into everyday life. Caf\u00e9s and tea rooms invite you to take a break between window shopping.<\/p>\n

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\ud83d\udd11<\/strong> Key to decor & design: Sottosopra<\/strong><\/h3>\n

In Cortina d’Ampezzo, Tyrolean style is not folklore, but a way of life. For over thirty-five years, the Sottosopra<\/strong> boutique has been perpetuating this alpine elegance through traditionally inspired clothing and accessories, with a specialty that has become its signature: calzini<\/em>. Lined up by the hundreds in their racks, these wool, cashmere, or cotton socks come in stripes, patterns, and natural colors, all made in Italy. The same high standards of quality can be found in the wool cushions and hats, delicately embroidered by the Milanese designer of The Hat Philosophy. Here, Tyrolean craftsmanship is reinvented with refinement, combining mountain heritage and contemporary chic.<\/p>\n

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\ud83d\udd11<\/strong> Key to the ski slopes: Tofana, Faloria, and Cristallo<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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Ski area in Cortina d’Ampezzo @ DR<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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In Cortina d’Ampezzo, skiing (66 slopes in total) is as much a panoramic experience as it is a sporting one. Part of the vast Dolomiti Superski<\/strong> area, the resort boasts more than 1,200 kilometers of sun-drenched slopes, renowned for their variety and natural elegance. From the legendary descents of Tofana<\/strong> to the sunny slopes of Faloria and Cristallo<\/strong>, each sector offers spectacular views. Technical slopes, Olympic trails, wide boulevards for smooth skiing: Cortina combines performance and pleasure. Here, skiing rhymes with style, precision, and exceptional landscapes.<\/p>\n

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\ud83d\udd11<\/strong> Key to the must-try dish: beetroot ravioli<\/strong><\/h3>\n

In Cortina, gastronomy celebrates Alpine tradition and Italian excellence. From Michelin-starred restaurants to historic eateries, you can enjoy local dishes revisited with finesse, accompanied by wines from the Dolomites. Casunziei all’Ampezzana – beetroot ravioli – embody authentic Ladin cuisine. Whether in town or at altitude, restaurants offer spectacular views of the peaks, transforming every meal into a memorable moment combining mountain flavors and refined elegance.<\/p>\n

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\ud83d\udd11<\/strong> Key to the aperitivo: Caf\u00e9 de la Poste<\/strong><\/h3>\n

In Cortina d’Ampezzo, aperitifs are enjoyed \u201cal Posta<\/strong>,\u201d a local expression that has become a ritual. Since 1804, the Hotel de la Poste has been run by the same family and cultivates a timeless atmosphere. It was here that Ernest Hemingway was a regular, to the point of leaving behind a legendary room, number 107, almost unchanged. At the bar, you can sit at your favorite table while the bartender, dressed in a white jacket and black bow tie, mixes a precise and elegant gin and tonic. A moment suspended between literary history and alpine dolce vita.<\/p>\n

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\ud83d\udd11<\/strong> Sports key: cycling reigns supreme in Cortina in the summer<\/strong><\/h3>\n

In Cortina d’Ampezzo, cycling is a unique way to discover the Dolomites. The classic route connects Cortina to Dobbiaco over 30 kilometers, with 380 meters of elevation gain, offering a gradual but continuous climb. Even without covering the entire 60-kilometer round trip, a portion is enough to enjoy the spectacle: to Lake Landro<\/strong> and the viewpoint over the Tre Cime<\/strong>, a 40-kilometer round trip. For added comfort, electric bikes allow you to cover the entire route effortlessly, transforming the ride into a panoramic, athletic experience accessible to all levels.<\/p>\n

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\ud83d\udd11<\/strong> Key to a gourmet dinner: 1224 Restaurant<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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1224 Restaurant @ Lagostina<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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Perched at 1,224 meters,<\/strong> the village is home to the Grand Hotel Savoia’s 1224 Restaurant<\/strong>, where chef Federico Rovacchi<\/strong> offers a gourmet dinner that combines modern techniques, local Dolomite produce, and culinary creativity. Here, every dish\u2014whether delicate seafood creations or perfectly grilled meats\u2014celebrates the quality of the ingredients and the art of cooking. Imagine these sublime dishes prepared in Lagostina<\/strong> cookware, including pots, stainless steel pans, and cookware sets made in Italy<\/strong> for over a century and highly prized by the chef for cooking and showcasing his dishes. This cookware allows for perfect control over sauces, reductions, and delicate cooking, ensuring refined flavors and elegant presentation.<\/p>\n

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Read<\/strong>: Cortina d’Ampezzo\uff5cAssouline Publishing\uff5c 2025<\/p>\n

The Queen of the Dolomites: Living in Cortina D’ampezzo \uff5c Giol Servane<\/a> \uff5c2024<\/p>\n

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Discover Cortina d’Ampezzo through the prism of cinema<\/strong>:<\/p>\n

The Pink Panther<\/i> by Blake Edwards (1963) starring Peter Sellers and Claudia Cardinale<\/p>\n

The Time of Lovers<\/em> (1968) with Vittorio de Sica and Faye Dunaway<\/p>\n

A Wedding in the Ashes<\/em> (1973) by Larry Peerce with Elizabeth Taylor<\/p>\n

For Your Eyes Only<\/em>, James Bond (1981) by John Glen with Roger Moore<\/p>\n

Vacanze di Natale<\/em> (1983) by the Vanzina brothers<\/p>\n

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Good to know<\/strong> \ud83d\udca1<\/p>\n

Ideal seasons<\/strong>: winter for downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and a sophisticated atmosphere; summer for hiking, mountain biking, and spectacular views.<\/p>\n

Access<\/strong>: The town does not have a train station. It is mainly accessible by car (2.5 hours by bus) from Venice, Treviso, or Belluno. Traffic can be heavy during high season.<\/p>\n

Languages<\/strong>: Italian is the main language, but English is widely understood. Ladin<\/strong>, the local language of the Dolomites, is also spoken.<\/p>\n

Gastronomy<\/strong>: The cuisine combines Italian traditions and Alpine specialties (polenta, cheese, game). Reservations are recommended for popular restaurants.<\/p>\n

Chic spirit<\/strong>: Even in the mountains, smart dress is appreciated, especially at the end of the day.<\/p>\n

Unspoiled nature<\/strong>: As the Dolomites are a protected site, it is essential to respect the trails and the environment.<\/p>\n

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Next stop: Saint Barth’s\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

Read also > <\/strong>An iconic stopover\u2026 Meg\u00e8ve<\/a><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

Featured photo: \u00a9 Betty Subrizi\/Unsplash<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Once a month, Luxus Magazine sets sail for a destination in France or elsewhere to discover the most elegant addresses, all carefully selected. Characterful hotels, fine dining, rare boutiques, cultural getaways… Our guide is a treasure trove for discerning travelers. After Mauritius, it’s time for Cortina d’Ampezzo, a ski resort, host of the 2026 Winter Olympics, and nicknamed the pearl or queen of the Dolomites.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":555,"featured_media":39617,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_seopress_titles_title":"","_seopress_titles_desc":"Cortina d'Ampezzo embodies Italian alpine elegance. Nestled in the heart of the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the resort charms visitors with its perfect harmony between spectacular nature, sporting heritage, and sophisticated lifestyle.","_seopress_robots_index":"","_seopress_robots_follow":"","_seopress_robots_imageindex":"","_seopress_robots_snippet":"","_seopress_robots_primary_cat":"none","_seopress_robots_breadcrumbs":"","_seopress_robots_freeze_modified_date":"","_seopress_robots_custom_modified_date":"","_seopress_robots_canonical":"","_seopress_social_fb_title":"","_seopress_social_fb_desc":"","_seopress_social_fb_img":"","_seopress_social_fb_img_attachment_id":0,"_seopress_social_fb_img_width":0,"_seopress_social_fb_img_height":0,"_seopress_social_twitter_title":"","_seopress_social_twitter_desc":"","_seopress_social_twitter_img":"","_seopress_social_twitter_img_attachment_id":0,"_seopress_social_twitter_img_width":0,"_seopress_social_twitter_img_height":0,"_seopress_redirections_value":"","_seopress_redirections_enabled":"","_seopress_redirections_enabled_regex":"","_seopress_redirections_logged_status":"both","_seopress_redirections_param":"","_seopress_redirections_type":301,"_seopress_analysis_target_kw":"","_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[19],"tags":[568,410,368,390,389,762],"class_list":["post-39269","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-address-book","tag-europe-en","tag-hotels-en","tag-italy","tag-mountain","tag-ski-en","tag-voyage-en"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/magazine.luxus-plus.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/39269","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/magazine.luxus-plus.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/magazine.luxus-plus.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/magazine.luxus-plus.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/555"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/magazine.luxus-plus.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=39269"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/magazine.luxus-plus.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/39269\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/magazine.luxus-plus.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/39617"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/magazine.luxus-plus.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=39269"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/magazine.luxus-plus.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=39269"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/magazine.luxus-plus.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=39269"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}