Eulanda and Omo - House Of Coco Magazine

Couples Travel November 9, 2023

Hostal Sa Rascassa Opens Up Costa Brava To The Curious Traveller

The Costa Brava Girona area of Catalonia is one of the world’s best-known gastronomy regions. However, memorable food and hospitality experiences do not have to be beyond reach. Hostal Sa Rascassa, a boutique hotel/restaurant in Cala d’ Aiguafreda on the Costa Brava presented a perfect opportunity for our #CocoCouple to experience the best of Catalan cuisine and a base for exploring the region.

The Mediterranean coastline known as Costa Brava is one of Spain’s most important cultural and gastronomic regions.

Located in Catalonia, northeast of Barcelona and stretching to the border with France, Costa Brava (roughly translated as ‘rugged coast’) is full of outstanding natural beauty.

Costa Brava has been popular with an older generation of British beach holidaygoers who were content to stick to all-inclusive resorts along the coast.

However, in recent times, the Costa Brava is attracting a new generation of travellers, the curious type who loves the coast but yet is willing to venture further inland. This new generation of travellers is open to cultural immersion, open to gaining new perspectives and keen to explore beyond the conventional.

It helps that Catalonia has a great reputation for world-class gastronomy. This region is after all the home of the Roca brothers, the trio behind one of the world’s best restaurants – El Celler de Can Roca in Girona.

The good news is that you don’t have to spend your life savings to have a world-class gastronomy experience in Costa Brava. Boutique hotels like Hostal Sa Rascassa provide the perfect base from which you can explore a beautiful stretch of coastline, experience authentic (and affordable) local cuisine and learn about Catalan culture in the region.

Hostal Sa Rascassa

The term ‘off-the-beaten-path’ never felt so perfect as when used to describe Hostal Sa Rascassa a boutique hotel/restaurant in Cala d’ Aiguafreda on the Costa Brava.

Just over one hour’s drive from Barcelona, you’re soon in what feels like a hidden treasure in Costa Brava surrounded by hills, forests and of course the Mediterranean.

Hostal Sa Rascassa, a quaint 5-bedroom property is located next to a quiet cove. Only a few steps from our room, sitting on a perfectly positioned bench on a clifftop terrace, we enjoyed looking out through the trees to the sea. Steps lead down to the cove where you can also watch the waves wash over the quay.

Alternatively, if you’re more adventurous and want to explore the area, you can follow the path along the coast to Begur where there is a medieval castle and neoclassical Spanish and Moorish architecture to be seen. This is the perfect location for people who want to clear their heads and simply reconnect with Mother Nature.

Hostal Sa Rascassa owners, Merche and Oscar Gorriz, had exactly this on their minds when, with no prior hotel management experience, they founded this place in 2002.

Rooms are small but comfortable and include an ensuite bathroom with amenities, air conditioning (heating is also available) and thoughtful additions like umbrellas and space for walking shoes.

The overall design emphasis is on tranquillity, functionality and simplicity.

Dining by the Mediterranean

Beyond the spectacular views, the highlight by far of Hostal Sa Rascassa is its highly regarded restaurant.

Located close to Begur – recently named one of The Culture Trip’s most beautiful Costa Brava towns -Hostal Sa Rascassa boasts a small but very highly regarded restaurant, also listed in Culture Trip as one of the top 10 in the region. Their restaurant demonstrates the simplicity and magnificence of Catalan cuisine rolled into one.

Fresh ingredients and flavourful dishes are the highlights. With some prior notice, the chef can accommodate specific dietary preferences. From our experience, the staff are friendly, efficient and happy to answer any questions.

What to eat? Fish (we tried their John Dory) and seafood are the highlights on their menu (changes based on seasonality). The salads are flavourful and a perfect side dish. Be sure to sample their range of wines from D.O. Empordà, one of Spain’s oldest wine-making regions.

Travel information

Getting there: Driving is the best way to get here. The drive from Girona takes just over an hour (63km) and double that from Barcelona. See here for directions.

For restaurant bookings (by phone only), call Hotel Sa Rascassa at +34 972 622 845

To book hotel stays, go to hostalsarascassa.com

Coco Couples February 11, 2023

Indulge Your Senses at Coco Bodu Hithi, the Boutique Oceanic Haven by Coco Collection

Coco Bodu Hithi showcases Maldivian charm

From the moment we stepped off the speedboat transfer from Velana International Airport, we knew, as if by instinct, that we had arrived somewhere special. You see, everything and everyone at Coco Bodu Hithi is set up to work seamlessly to peel the stress off you from the moment you arrive.

In the shade of their Latitude Bar, the wheels of their hospitality swung into motion with a welcome cocktail and a warm greeting by General Manager Mario Stanic and Raj, our private lifestyle host who embodied Maldivian charm. Raj belongs to a brilliant and very experienced team whose primary objective was to ensure that the island became our perfect sanctuary during our five-day stay.

Coco Bodu Hithi, located in the North Malé Atoll first opened in 2006 and the island’s vegetation has matured beautifully since then. Entrusted in his able care, Raj gave us a brief overview of the island as he ushered us through lush greenery towards our Island Villa accommodation.

We would easily have walked past the offramp leading to the villa entrance if not for our guide; such is the seclusion with these villas.

Coco Bodu Hithi has 44 Island Villas situated on the land portion, each a private cocoon demarcated by greenery and providing direct access to the beach and lagoon.

The island’s other accommodation comprises a variety of styles of overwater bungalows with the prestigious Coco Residence being the undisputed oceanic haven.

With a total of 100 villas, each accommodation type offers a unique guest experience – for example, some of their villas offer access to the best snorkelling area of the house reef while others are better for direct beach access. With such variety available, Raj informed us that it is common for guests to begin their stay in an Island Villa before moving to one of the overwater bungalows to round out their visit.

Stepping into our Island Villa, we were introduced to a roomy open-plan space with comfortable furnishings, traditional textiles and a generous infusion of natural light. The villa design encouraged a natural flow between indoor and outdoor space – you can walk from the private 1.3m pool, through the space and out to the lagoon in one smooth motion.

The toughest question that immediately faced us was making a choice between taking a dip in the pool, soaking in the in-room jacuzzi or immersing ourselves in the temperate lagoon water.

We took the first option and soon, the sense of calm embraced us and temporarily made us forget the outside world.

Exploring an idyllic ocean oasis

From above, Coco Bodu Hithi presents itself as an idyllic ocean oasis. The island boasts an L-shaped design, with the lush green canopy of a tropical rainforest making up the land portion and pristine white sandy beaches encircling it.

The resort seamlessly blends with its surroundings, featuring overwater bungalows (Water Villas, Escape Water Villas, and Coco Residences) that elegantly extend into the lagoon at both ends and away from the central hub of the island, offering a serene escape from the everyday.

After a relaxing swim, we retraced our steps to the main jetty to rejoin Raj for a quick orientation to acquaint ourselves with the property.

The island’s lush green tropical forest runs through its entire length and provided us with a cooling and enjoyable walk whenever we needed to connect to the Coco Residences and the Coco Spa.

Air, the island’s poolside restaurant and one of its six dining locations, serves as the main restaurant featuring a fusion of local and international cuisine. The quality and variety of their world-class buffets took us on a culinary journey each day…and this was just for breakfast! Their flavour-packed salads and delectable Indian dishes were standout favourites during lunch, leaving us both satisfied and eager for more.

Latitude Bar, which overlooks a good-sized infinity pool, is a chic lounge serving up tasty cocktails, snacks and light bites. This is where live bands and cocktail parties offer entertainment on selected nights and guests can choose to either mingle, watch a movie under the stars or simply recline and listen to the rhythmic sounds of the lagoon.

Stars, a breezy bar and restaurant had us making repeated visits for one dish in particular – fresh reef fish served with potatoes on a bed of succulent vegetables.

Japanese cuisine is popular with many island resorts in the Maldives and Tsuki, the Coco Bodu Hithi variant offers both a spectacular view and a celebration of flavours including soups, salads, tempura, and sushi.

Our evening plans were expertly arranged by Raj, who secured a coveted reservation for us at Aqua, the resort’s dinner-only restaurant, for a sumptuous overwater dining experience under the stars.

Wellness at Coco Bodu Hithi

Complete physical and mental rejuvenation…this is the holistic philosophy of wellness we personally subscribe to at House of Coco and Coco Bodu Hithi provided ample opportunities for us to lean into this.

Our island experience was elevated by daily visits to the luxurious Coco Spa. The spacious, airy and tranquil setting invited us to choose from a range of rejuvenating treatments. We could also decide to soak in the jacuzzi, sweat out in the sauna, unwind in the steam bath, or invigorate with a cold plunge pool afterwards.

The highly trained Coco Spa staff provided us with impeccable service, ensuring that we came away from each visit feeling truly restored.

One evening, pre-dinner, we boarded a traditional Maldivian dhoni for a relaxing sunset champagne and canapé cruise around the island. We chased the sun until it became a mere suggestion on the horizon and its golden rays faded into the night sky.

To cap our wellness experience, each day we had the option to choose from an exclusive pillow menu thereby enhancing the quality of our sleep.

The Coco Bodu Hithi Island Table

Romantic dinners in the Maldives are an excellent way to create cherished memories. It was therefore fitting that our final experience at Coco Bodu Hithi was an intimate five-course dinner on a private beach.

The colours of twilight and the gentle sound of waves in the background added to an already magical setting.

Soft table lighting cast a glow as the white linen curtains of the pergola danced in the mild evening breeze. Someone had half-buried golden-coloured LED light strips in the sand creating a soft ‘ring of fire’ around us.

Our menu consisted of delicious gourmet dishes made with fresh and local ingredients, a prized aspect of the cuisine served on Coco Bodu Hithi (they like to call this ‘the island table’) which Executive Sous Chef Anjula Karunasinghe had earlier highlighted to us during a brief chat.

We especially enjoyed the seafood selection of plump scallops and jumbo prawns followed by a grilled and tender rock lobster accompanied by a medley of steamed vegetables. The meal ended on a sweet note with decadent panna cotta desserts topped with fresh juicy berries.

As we raised our glasses filled with fresh fruit-infused cocktails that had become favourites during our stay, we offered silent but heartfelt thanks to all who had welcomed us and made our stay at this oceanic haven truly unforgettable.

Travel information

Speedboat transfers from Velana International Airport, Malé take around 40 minutes and can be arranged during booking.

For more information about curating your own experience at Coco Bodu Hithi (including weddings, honeymoons and other special celebrations) and to learn more about their all-inclusive packages and latest offers/discounts, visit cococollection.com/en/bodu_hithi

Couples Travel December 20, 2022

Adaaran Prestige Vadoo A Taste of The Maldives

Heritage meets architecture at Adaaran Prestige Vadoo

Adaaran Prestige Vadoo which has been part of the Aitken Spence portfolio of luxury hotels in the Maldives since 2009, has some interesting history which we only learned about when we visited this island resort.

The resort houses 50 luxury water villas featuring classic Japanese interior design. It is this connection to Japanese culture that we found most fascinating.

Aerial view of main bar at Adaaran Prestige Vadoo

The resort now known as Adaaran Prestige Vadoo was originally built by Japanese owners in the late 1980s. One of the original water bungalows from this time is said to be the oldest in the Maldives. This bungalow, with its Japanese architecture mostly preserved, now serves as the island’s Mandara spa where guests can book a range of holistic treatments including couples massages.

Perhaps to further preserve this Japanese heritage, one of the highlights of this resort is the upscale Kitajima restaurant, one of four main dining choices available.

The menu at Kitajima features standard Japanese cuisine favourites ranging from fresh sushi to flavourful tempura. It is, however, the decor and the intimate dining experience that it creates which made this restaurant stand out for us.

Intimate and luxurious overwater villas

When visiting Adaaran Prestige Vadoo, you can choose your preferred view from their range of Sunset and Sunrise Villas. Both types of villas are the same except (obviously) for the different views.

Four honeymoon villas are larger and offer more space and come with more amenities for that extra special and luxurious touch.

Japanese design influence runs throughout the villa interiors. This influence creates a calming symmetry and harmony between the natural outdoor environment and the indoor space.

Matted curtains, bamboo window shades, and wooden floors were design highlights that stood out for us. In addition, high-quality materials and furniture add to the feeling of luxury. Another highlight for us was the pillow menu (available on request).

Sunrise Villa bathroom design at Adaaran Prestige Vadoo

Each of the bungalows comes with its own sun deck, plunge pool and jacuzzi. A unique design feature we liked was the bathroom doubling as a separate lounge area, complete with a sofa, minibar, satellite TV and a glass bottom floor for observing random marine life below.

The spacious villas have decent sound insulation while bamboo and thatched fences surround each dwelling, further enhancing the feeling of privacy without obstructing the views of the ocean.

Breakfast-in-bed or a floating breakfast in the outdoor (and private) plunge pool are some of the in-villa dining options available in your hideaway. This can all be arranged through butlers assigned to each villa. These approachable and attentive individuals work day and night to help create a more intimate and personalised experience for guests on the premium all-inclusive package.

Floating breakfast in overwater villa with lagoon views

Guests on this package also enjoy an elevated level of service and other extras such as sparkling wine on arrival, a complimentary minibar replenished daily, fresh fruit bowls and evening canapés.

Dining options

We have mentioned Kitajama, the speciality Japanese restaurant earlier.

Varifalhu, the main restaurant, offers a mini buffet of Indian dishes. A four-course set menu features à la carte options that change daily. Kakuni is their dedicated seafood beach restaurant with a barefoot dining appeal.

There are two outdoor bars (Dhoni and Kandholi) that serve drinks and offer light refreshments throughout the day. However, it is the chance to relax and enjoy panoramic views that really makes them appealing spots to hang out on the island.

Main bar with wood and bamboo themed furniture

To capture the magical feeling of romance, private dinners on the beach can be curated by butlers (on request). Couples can watch the sunset and listen to the sounds of the ocean while enjoying a special menu featuring an amalgamation of chef-choice dishes.

During our visit, we noticed that the majority of guests were honeymooners and couples from the Middle East and East Asia. This informs the resort’s strong preference that guests dress in a manner that is respectful to other guests.

Activities at Adaaran Prestige Vadoo

In our opinion, this is a resort where you want to really just relax and enjoy the feeling of disconnecting from the world for a few days.

Adaaran Prestige Vadoo A Taste of The Maldives — View of lagoon from white sandy beach at Adaaran Prestige Vadoo

For guests with a bit of curiosity though, excursions available at Adaaran Prestige Vadoo include walking tours of historical attractions and local markets in Malé, the capital city and tours to a local island where guests can experience non-resort life in the Maldives.

For an island of this size, we were surprised at the number of watersports available. For guests who prefer to take things easier, there is also a menu of water-based activities such as morning and sunset fishing, a dolphin safari, sunset dhoni cruises and a sandbank picnic and lunch. All of these are weather (and time of year) dependent and should be booked in advance.

A personal highlight of our stay was being able to step down from our water villa’s private stairway and straight into the lagoon for a relaxing swim in the clear water. Although not a snorkelling paradise, there was some marine life around to keep us entertained around the house reef.

We also enjoyed daily walks around the island including lush and beautifully landscaped gardens that are a theme at Aitken Spence properties.

Adaaran Prestige Vadoo presents couples with an opportunity for a quick retreat and a chance to enjoy a taste of the Maldives.

Escape to paradise and soothe your soul in the Maldives with our latest travel feature. Discover breathtaking landscapes and luxurious retreats in our article on the House of Coco website.

How to get there

A 15-20 minute speedboat transfer can be arranged by the resort from Malé International Airport.

For more information about their half-board, all-inclusive and premium all-inclusive packages at Adaaran Prestige Vadoo, visit adaaran.com/prestigevadoo.

Lifestyle December 20, 2022

Flavours, Family and Fun: Visit Adaaran Select Meedhupparu, Maldives

The Adaaran Select Meedhupparu difference

Never been to the Maldives before and feeling overwhelmed by the choice of resorts available? Wondering which one will best suit your needs? Planning a trip with family or looking for a couples escape?

You’ve come to the right place. Adaaran Select Meedhupparu offers a variety of spaces, accommodation and gastronomy options and activities that are guaranteed to make one day on the island different from the next.

The resort island of Adaaran Select Meedhupparu is part of the Aitken Spence collection of properties in the Maldives. Opened in 2000, the proud mantle of being the very first resort in the Maldives Raa Atoll meant that Adaaran Select Meedhupparu has had time to perfect their hospitality offerings.

This is reflected in the quality and range of their all-inclusive packages designed to target different customer interests and preferences. Their selection of all-inclusive packages includes a brand new ‘Premium All Inclusive’ package that combines some of the island’s best food and drink options.

Accommodation options include a range of over 200 beach villas and 20 Adaaran Prestige Water Villas (both property types share the same island but operate as different resort entities).

The private Adaaran Prestige Water Villas have access to what is arguably the best part of the Meedhupparu house reef. Steps lead from these elegant villas directly into the lagoon with only a few strokes to the reef’s drop-off. These exclusive properties have their own reception, restaurant and bar, swimming pool and beach.

We stayed in a Jacuzzi Beach Villa which was set back from the shoreline behind light vegetation that provided sufficient shade without obstructing views of the lagoon.

Families will find Adaaran Select Meedhupparu a good choice for a family holiday to the Maldives. In addition to beach villas designed with families in mind, you can expect a range of child-friendly facilities including a dedicated (and generously sized) playground, a family-friendly pool and a calendar of childrens’ activities through their Komas Kids Club.

There’s a certain maturity about this island and we are not just referring to their hospitality options. A full-grown rainforest environment teeming with rich biodiversity creates a natural wonderland in one of the most beautiful nations on earth.

Eating at Adaaran Select Meedhupparu

Meedhupparu’s all-inclusive package offers a daily parade of different world cuisines. The main Jaafaiy Restaurant plays host to this buffet selection. Although we did not get the chance to try Sufura, Meedhupparu’s specialised Indian restaurant, the main buffet at Jaafaiy offered a delightful menu of flavourful curries that changed daily.

However, our top choice for dinner during our visit was the Thavaa Restaurant. This was elegant Mediterranean dining made simple. We dined with our feet in the sand whilst enjoying the ocean breeze and soft tunes from the nearby Café Mass.

The open plan kitchen placed us right next to the aromas, sounds and activity from the kitchen which heightened both our expectation and our appetite. The Mediterranean-style dishes we sampled were remarkable.

Away from the main restaurant, options abound for lunch and casual dining throughout the day. For example, the trendy and elegant Café Mass offers beachfront dining and serves a selection of fast food.

We had one of our best lunch meals at the Adaaran Prestige Water Villas restaurant (booking required) – an unforgettable grilled seafood platter with the freshest ingredients possible on such a remote island.

Halaboli Bar is an expansive space with high ceilings and plentiful seating. By day, you can grab a drink and a book from the library and relax.

Albino Bar on the edge of the island is a refuge away from everything. Here, you can experience solitude while browsing through a mind-blowing menu of 101 cocktails (no exaggeration!)

Finally, the Water Villas Bar, Sunset Bar and a swim-up Pool Bar further add to the variety on offer at Meedhupparu.

Things to do at Meedhupparu

If you’re content with doing absolutely nothing, a highlight of this island is the variety of rest and relaxation spaces available including sun loungers for all beach villas and a sea swing reachable at low tide.

If you prefer to take things at a relaxed pace, the mature vegetation on this island makes it perfect for long walks. Be sure to check out their well-maintained and beautifully laid out gardens including the treehouse.

For wellness, a range of treatments are available at the Mandara Spa, an impressive structure in its own right with multiple treatment rooms offering massages, facials and other options.

What is a trip to the Maldives without experiencing the water? Although we visited during monsoon season, there were a host of motorised and non-motorised water activities available at Meedhupparu that were available for booking (some are included in the all-inclusive package).

We spent our nights at Halaboli Bar. At night, the space transforms into a lounge/dance hall with a resident DJ banging out the latest hits. Head to the main bar where you can watch a team of experienced mixologists prepare ghostly looking jellyfish shots (PS: these are not actually made from aquatic animals) guaranteed to hit the spot!

Kids clubs, music and dance, masterful acrobatic performances and talented Sri Lankan Kandyan fire-eating dancers (children are welcome to this show – from a safe distance of course) are just some of the night entertainment options available.

How to get there

A scenic resort-arranged seaplane transfer from Velana International Airport, Malé will get you to Meedhupparu in around 45 minutes. Optionally, you can do a domestic flight and a speedboat transfer to Meedhupparu.

For more information about curating your own experience at Adaaran Select Meedhupparu and to learn more about their all-inclusive packages, visit adaaran.com/selectmeedhupparu/

Coco Couples September 9, 2022

Visit Angsana Velavaru Maldives: A Playground Curated for Escapism

Welcome to Angsana Velavaru, the ‘Turtle Island’

Angsana Velavaru Maldives located in the Maldives’ Dhaalu Atoll (also known as the South Nilandhe Atoll), Angsana Velavaru draws its name from the local Dhivehi reference to turtles. Islands in this atoll are accessible through regular domestic flights from Velana International Airport (Malé) and via connecting speedboats.

However, for a more direct route to the resort, Angsana Velavaru offers guests the option of a seaplane transfer from Malé which takes around 45 minutes.

In our opinion, travelling via the seaplane option to Velavaru is where the escapist experience begins – by enjoying scenic views of islands and atolls, appearing like beautiful images on the canvas of a skilled painter.

Your personal playground – Beachfront Villas

Following our welcome with a drink and a cold towel, we checked into our Beachfront Infinity Pool Villa and settled in. A WhatsApp group with front office staff made communication very easy throughout our visit.

Our turtle-shaped one-room Beachfront Infinity Pool Villa offered an unspoiled view of the Indian Ocean. Other configurations at Angsana Velavaru include two and three-bedroom beachfront villas.

All the beachfront properties offer a degree of privacy with fences separating and enclosing each one and creating a personal space that became our playground. The architecture, of these Beachfront Infinity Pool Villas in particular, creates an experience where you can wake up to the sounds of the waves, step out from your villa, swim the length of your infinity pool, and step right onto the beach and into the ocean in one seamless motion.

Our beachfront villa had the capacity to sleep up to three (a built-in sofa doubles as a single bed). Other facilities in-room include in-built storage, a king-sized bed, and a mini-bar stocking a few basic brands.

We especially loved the vibrant beach-chic orange colours used throughout the villa and featured in the bed linen, wall art, guest clothing accessories, furniture and bathroom decor.

A distinct design feature of the Beachfront Infinity Pool Villa is the outdoor and open-plan bathroom. Leading from the room to the back of the villa, there are two showers, one private and one outdoors.

We regarded the outdoor bathtub as the centrepiece of the space. Here, Velavaru’s signature beach-chic orange colours contrast beautifully with the landscaping and white sand to create a distinctive visual image.

Angsana Velavaru InOcean Villas

It is certainly worth mentioning the exquisitely designed InOcean Villas at Angsana Velavaru.

In a destination that’s synonymous with over-water villas, Angsana Velavaru’s two-storey InOcean villas are part of a select few in the Maldives which aren’t directly connected to the main island by a physical or natural structure.

The InOcean villas are located roughly one kilometre from the main island and are only accessible by scheduled ferry services that take around 10 minutes to reach them, making them the very definition of escapism.

Velavaru’s InOcean villas (all of which come with infinity pools) are wide and spacious and come in a variety of configurations (with occupancy of up to 5 people). Large sun decks, private cabanas and over-water hammocks provide prime viewing locations for observing marine life in the coral reef beneath.

Even better, because of their unique design, the InOcean villas invite you to go from being a mere spectator to an explorer by stepping from your deck and swimming directly into the turquoise waters of the lagoon.

A rooftop pavilion (sala) creates the perfect space for private spa treatments or in-villa dining.

These exclusive properties have a dedicated restaurant and bar located within the villa cluster. The Italian gourmet restaurant (Azzurro) serves Mediterranean-inspired fine-dining all day.

Sunset cruises and more

There are many places to relax and tune into the tranquillity of life on this beautifully designed island resort. For example, we started one day with a delightful floating breakfast delivered to our villa.

Walk barefoot away from the villas, head to the main infinity pool, select a sun lounger and enjoy the sun and the sea breeze with cocktails served to order from the Kuredi Restaurant and Pool Bar. Alternatively, head to the spa and select from a range of relaxing treatments.

In terms of activities, we learned that guests can discuss their specific interests and create a personal itinerary that matches their preferred pace.

For water enthusiasts, Angsana Velavaru offers a wide range of motorised and non-motorised activities. Although we did not participate in any water activities during our monsoon season visit, we learned that Velavaru’s House Reef is an appealing choice for snorkelling due to the diversity and vibrancy of the local marine life.

Angsana Velavaru is close to more than 30 diving sites. The island resort hosts a diving school that provides training for a range of abilities leading up to PADI certification.

Apart from the daily bird feeding, one of our favourite activities was a sunset cruise. With champagne and canapes served, we were joined by a school of playful dolphins who instinctively put on a show to the delight of everyone onboard our vessel.

Gastronomy at Angsana Velavaru

Guests at Angsana Velavaru on all-inclusive packages can enjoy all-day dining at the Kaani Restaurant which serves a daily changing international buffet including Maldivian dishes.

All-day dining is also available at the neighbouring Kuredi Restaurant and Pool Bar which offers à la carte options in a casual beachfront setting.

For a more intimate gastronomical adventure, Angsana offers multiple options including a ‘castaway experience’ on a private island, dinner on the lagoon on a private floating table-for-two and a private beach BBQ.

A memorable dinner experience for us was a visit to the Funa Restaurant (lunch and dinner service only). With limited seating, booking ahead was wise so that we could get outdoor seats to watch the sunset.

Funa’s Pan-Asian menu is curated by Prasong Thaochan, Angsana Velavaru’s Executive Chef and includes selected dishes from countries like Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, Korea, Japan, and China. These delectable dishes were simply presented but were packed with a variety of flavours and left a lasting impression.

For more information about curating your own Angsana experience and to learn more about their all-inclusive packages, visit angsana.com/maldives/velavaru

Coco Couples September 9, 2022

A Sanctuary for the Senses: Visit Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, Maldives

Welcome to tranquillity at Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru

Comparatively smaller in size to other resort islands in the Maldives, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru is located in the North Malé Atoll.

Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru is accessible through resort-operated speedboat transfers from Velana International Airport (Malé), a journey which takes around twenty minutes.

The size of the island appears to contribute to its tranquillity which wraps around you like a warm hug as soon as you step off the boat and onto the pristine white sandy beach.

This is a resort island where there is no pressure whatsoever to do anything except relax and dip into things at your own pace.

Beachfront Pool Villa – The best seat in the house

A typical morning for us at Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru began with waking up in our circular Beachfront Pool Villa, throwing open the curtains and the retractable french doors and enjoying the 180-degree views of the sun rays breaking through the sky over the ocean.

Basically the ocean was our theatre and our four-poster king-sized bed was the best seat in the house.

Accommodation options at Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru include Oceanview Pool Villas, Beachfront Pool Villas, or Spa Sanctuary Pool Villas.

On the ocean-side of our Beachfront Pool Villa, the architecture allowed us to step through the tall doors and onto a spacious wooden deck with sun loungers. Alternatively, we could walk from the deck along a connected wooden jetty that led to a private over-water cabana with sunbeds that was perfect for private massage treatments or simply lounging over the water with a good book and a cup of coffee.

Back inside the main room, in a seamless flow of movement between outdoor and indoor spaces, a design feature we especially loved was the high ceiling spiralling upwards in the shape of a snail shell creating a sense of unrestricted space.

Doors on the other side of the room open up to reveal a semi-outdoor open-plan bathroom area. Here, Banyan Tree’s signature design excellence combines lush landscaping with natural building materials to create a feeling of synergy with nature. A high bamboo fence enclosing each villa granted us total privacy.

For an elevated bathroom experience, our villa came with two showers – indoor and outdoor. There is no bathtub in the Beachfront Pool Villa. However, we did not need one as we had a temperature-controlled jet pool and a private swimming pool!

A highlight one morning was the chance to start our day with a colourful selection of breakfast items delivered to our villa for a delightful floating breakfast experience.

Wellness your way

Wellness means different things to different people. The Global Institute of Wellness, a nonprofit organisation which promotes knowledge about preventative health, defines it as: “The active pursuit of activities, choices and lifestyles that lead to a state of holistic health.”

If exploring wellness is an important factor in your choice of holiday destination, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru offers you a chance to create your own version.

This Indian Ocean resort offers multiple elements – natural beauty, idyllic beaches, crystal clear lagoon, world-class gastronomy, and outdoor and indoor experiences – all of which combine to promote overall well being.

Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru offers a relatively standard programme of motorised and non-motorised activities, including snorkelling and diving at neighbouring island Angsana Ihuru. However, we opted for a decidedly slower pace during our visit. This was partly due to the fact that our visit was during the monsoon season.

To explore Vabbinfaru’s wellness ethos, we visited the Banyan Tree Spa to sample a range of treatments that leverage traditional Asian healing philosophies. For us, this was one place where Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru’s tagline as being ‘a sanctuary for the senses’ truly came alive.

Spa treatments we enjoyed included a restorative foot bath and scrub with the scent from jasmine flowers filling the air. We also participated in an exhilarating yoga session with resident wellness and lifestyle coach Dr. Shakeel Ambalth that stretched muscles and left us feeling lighter.

The daily stingray feeding gave us a chance to engage with the ocean in a different way and to explore the island’s biodiversity. Watching those majestic creatures glide through the waters provided a sense of calm and an opportunity to practise mindfulness.

A night under the stars at Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru

On Vabbinfaru, a typical night is whatever you decide you want it to look like. During our visit, a number of experiences stood out for us.

Meals at the casual and rustic Ilaafathi (Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru has one main restaurant offering buffet and à la carte options) were a daily adventure in tastes, textures, aromas and flavours. For breakfast, lunch and dinner, we explored a surprising variety of international and local dishes on the menu that kept our curious taste buds entertained.

On one star-lit night with clear skies, we had a phenomenal ‘destination dinner’ (private dinner for two on the beach) arranged for us. We especially enjoyed a succulent fresh lobster and crab dish (straight off the grill) amidst many other gastronomical delights that evening.

Post-dinner entertainment featured memorable Bodu Beru dance nights showcasing drum rhythms, music and dance steps performed by an energetic cast of locals.

In our own version of wellness and to round up our day at Vabbinfaru, after dinner, we stepped outside and crawled into a wide hammock (fits two adults) attached to our villa. There, we rocked in sync with the gentle ocean breeze and fell asleep under the stars.

For more information about their all-inclusive packages and to design your own wellness experience at Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, visit banyantree.com/maldives/vabbinfaru

Uncategorized October 24, 2021

A Love Letter to Scotch Whisky? Edinburgh’s Johnnie Walker Princes Street is Unveiled

No talk of spirits around the globe stray far from the mention of 200-year old, best selling Scotch whisky brand Johnnie Walker. #TeamCoco’s lifestyle writer, Eulanda Shead Osagiede visited Edinburgh for the grand opening of the 71,500 sq ft Johnnie Walker Princes Street visitor centre.

A blue and white flag with the classic emblem of the beloved “walking man” icon was raised high above Diageo’s newest flagship Johnny Walker Princes Street visitor centre. The new eight-floor visitor centre comes to Edinburgh as part of Diageo’s £185 million (US$255m) investment in Scotch whisky tourism in Scotland – the largest single investment programme in the industry.

Ivan Menezes, Chief Executive, Diageo shared that “…Last year Johnnie Walker celebrated 200 years since founder John Walker opened the doors to his small grocery store and today represents the next chapter of the incredible story.”

A visitor experience like no other…

Unlike other visitor centers in its niche, Johnnie Walker Princes Street goes beyond embracing technology, it seamlessly integrates it in a multi-sensory way–prioritising the guest experience above anything.

Upon the first few minutes of beginning an experience, visitors can expect to have their personal flavour preferences mapped with drinks tailored to their palate. With over 800 flavour combinations available in their innovative dispensation systems, one person could visit Johnnie Walker Princes Street every day for more than two years and not have the same experience twice.

Equally compelling is the theatrical elements of the experience. Each staff member or live performer passionately shares their knowledge of the Johnnie Walker brand, it’s history, and its current influence in the whisky marketplace.

What this site means to the travel & tourism industry

After a challenging period within the travel and tourism industry, Barbara Smith, Managing Director of Johnnie Walker Princes Street, said: “We’re thrilled to be opening the doors and helping to re-build the tourism and hospitality industry after a very difficult 18 months. The story of the world’s best-selling whisky has been brought to life with flair and imagination and we have built a team that includes some of the most talented individuals in their fields.”

Smith’s words are completely reflected in the makeup of the onsite staff. With over 150 diverse and talented new employees, speaking 23 languages between them, the 200-year old story of Johnnie Walker has been brought to life in a dynamic and compelling way.

Nowhere to go but up…

The crown jewel of the new site can be found in the two world-class rooftop bars, and a wraparound terrace with stunning views of Edinburgh’s skyline.

Separate reservations can be made for Explorers’ Bothy whisky bar stocked with 150 different whiskies, and the 1820 cocktail bar where drinks are paired with a carefully curated menu sourced from, and representing in culinary form, the four corners of Scotland.

It’s important to note that the experience also caters to non-whisky drinkers with creative non-alcoholic mocktails that can be created and consumed during any visit.

It may sound cliche to say that no trip to Edinburgh is complete without visiting the new Johnnie Walker Princes Street visitor centre, but then again, some cliches must be poured out, and a great glass of whisky provided in its place–the perfect accompaniment to any love letter, right?

Details: Tickets for tours start from £25 per person, including a 90-minute tour and three personalised Scotch whisky samples (all samples are provided with carefully controlled measures and non-alcoholic alternatives available to all guests).

Czech Republic September 18, 2021

Finding Joy in the Simple Things at Romney Marsh Shepherds Huts

The Romney Marsh Shepherds Huts, Kent prove that farm life can sometimes be the luxurious Bohemian country escape you need to reconnect with nature and with yourself. Our House of Coco couple, Omo and Eulanda Osagiede went to experience this unusual accommodation on a UK staycation.

The neighbours looked up briefly as we opened the gate and wheeled our luggage into their field. Like many other thoughtful things they had done, our hosts had provided a hand-drawn wagon with tyres perfectly suited for navigating the terrain.

Our pile of bags immediately gave us away as city dwellers who, clearly not used to the laid back lifestyle in these parts, had packed more than we needed for a two-night stay in a cosy converted shepherds’ hut in the Kent countryside.

Our neighbours did not seem impressed.

As we made our way through their field in our designer wellies (the fields can get muddy), they appeared to exchange knowing looks as if to say, “These city folks need to learn our simple ways”, before turning back to the important task at hand…filling their bellies with the rich wetland grass that stretched for miles in every direction.

The famous Romney sheep, our neighbours, had more important things on their mind than us.

We on the other hand were very excited to meet them and looked forward to the prospect of staying in the Lookerer, one of the two Romney Marsh Shepherds Huts set on the Boulden family farm on the Romney Marsh in Kent.

The Romney Marsh, located just off the M20 Motorway, is a sparsely populated area which stretches across 100 square miles in Kent and is designated as an ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’.

With miles of coastline – with shingle and fine sandy beaches – from Hythe to Dungeness and with a predominantly flat landscape criss-crossed by peaceful walking and cycling routes, the Romney Marsh is the perfect destination for the chance to relax, recharge and get back in touch with nature.

The Lookerer Hut

We arrived just as the sun began its descent below the horizon. Its dying embers cast a soft orange hue on the Lookerer, the shepherd’s hut that would be our abode for our visit. If Mother Nature had intended to welcome us with a spectacular view, we were not disappointed.

Conceived by husband and wife team Paul and Kristina Boulden, the Romney Marsh Shepherds Huts are located on the family farm on the edge of Aldington. The two traditional shepherds’ huts – Rumwold and Lookerer – were designed by a local craftsman in the style of huts from the early 1900s.

However quaint they may look on the outside, the inside of the huts demonstrates attention to detail and some crafty engineering. The interior decor presents the visitor with stylish countryside chic and Kentish charm.

Both huts are completely self-contained and come fully equipped with a double bed with ample underbed storage to keep bags and other items out of the way. The kitchen includes a two-ring hob and utensils which, when combined with the outdoor fire pit, provides sufficient facilities for self-catering. Think barbeque nights under the stars roasting hot dogs and marshmallows.

There is a reasonably sized built-in toilet and shower room with decent water pressure and ample hot water supply. Comfortable wool blankets and toiletries come from the Boulden family’s sister business – Romney Marsh Wools.

The doors of the hut open up to a private seating area which extends the utility of the space by combining the indoors and outdoors in one seamless flow.

When booking a stay at the Romney Marsh Shepherds Huts, guests can request to have their hut fully stocked with locally sourced breakfast items as an extra option. We arrived to find our fridge contained bacon, butter, milk, eggs and deserts. Kristina, our host, had kindly accommodated our gluten and dairy free request and had provided alternative options as well.

Excited at the prospect of exploring the surrounding area, we stored our bags away hurriedly so that we could sit on the steps of the Lookerer to watch the setting sun turn the summer sky red and pink and enjoy uninterrupted views of the Romney Marsh.

Exploring the Romney Marsh

After a comfortable night’s sleep with absolutely no noise (even our neighbours had to sleep sometime), we got up the next day to enjoy a hearty breakfast, opening up the doors of the hut to set up the foldable table and chairs in the Lookerer’s ‘garden’ area.

The hut’s name, ‘Lookerer’, is in memory of the farm’s Marsh Shepherd who lived across the road at Hurst Farm and who once looked after lambs in this field where the huts are situated.

The job title, ‘The Looker’, itself dates back to the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries on the Romney Marsh where shepherds, known as Lookers, were paid by estate owners to oversee vast flocks. Often needing to navigate a large amount of terrain in a single day, huts provided temporary accommodation for them.

Those weatherbeaten shepherds would have considered our hut, with its soft-touch electric hob, hot water bottles, cast iron fireplace and wooly comforts (perfect for cosy winter nights) the height of luxury.

Exploring the local area

The Romney Marsh Shepherds Hut have created a very useful mobile app with all the information guests need for their stay.

The app includes notes on essentials to bring (including all-weather clothes, wellies, trainers or walking boots and a waterproof jacket) and arrival information (including directions and self-check in instructions).

The app also includes guides to the local area as well as links to bookable experiences such as wine tours, photography classes, arts and craft retreats, group cycling tours and food festivals.

Our hosts had arranged bicycles from Channel Bike Hire, a local company that provides bike delivery and collection services from the shepherds’ huts. The Marsh’s flat landscape, quiet country lanes and well marked cycling routes present endless opportunities for self-guided tours of local villages, historical churches, nature reserves and local beaches during our stay.

Nights out in this part of rural Kent are mostly relatively quiet and laid back affairs in village pubs. However, Hythe, a short drive from the Lookerer, was a good choice to find more restaurant options and establishments that stayed open later (be sure to book ahead). Local taxi services are available. However, we found it easier to self-drive during our stay.

Romney Marsh Shepherds Hut on the ‘Fifth Continent’

“The world is divided into Europe, Asia, Africa, America and Romney Marsh,” goes the quote from the ‘The Ingoldsby Legends’, a collection of stories written by English clergyman Rev. Richard Harris Barham over 200 years ago.

The quote goes on to refer to Romney Marsh as ‘the fifth quarter of the globe’ which explains why the strapline ‘The Fifth Continent’ appears on many promotional materials about the area.

The Marsh’s unique landscape makes this moniker quite fitting.

The area is the largest coastal wetland on the south coast of England. Cycling and walking are the best ways to get close enough to experience it. Routes take you through flat, green fields and shingle and sandy beaches. Above you are sweeping skies and around you is blissful solitude.

The Romney Marsh is where, due to the low population density and minimal light pollution, the dark nights that once provided cover for wool smugglers today make the Marsh one of the best areas in Kent for stargazing and sighting the Milky Way.

Our last day at the Romney Marsh Shepherds Hut ended the same way as our first one had begun…with another striking sunset.

We reclined on our wooden bench outside The Lookerer, imagining that we were watching a timelapse video of the changing colours of the sky and sharing the captivating moment with our wooly neighbours.

It would not have been out of place for the old shepherds who once found shelter in these huts to momentarily take their eyes off their flocks to appreciate the scenery.

In these times when planning international travel seems like such a hassle, we too relished the opportunity to connect with nature on ‘the Fifth Continent.

Info

House of Coco was a guest of Romney Marsh Shepherds Huts (www.romneymarshshepherdshuts.co.uk). Based near Aldington on the Romney Marsh in Kent, a two-night stay in the Lookerer Hut for two adults sharing is priced from £270 (£135pp) based on low season travel in December 2021 (also valid January and February 2022). There is a minimum two night stay per booking. Local produce breakfast boxes are available from £15 extra per booking. A range of optional add-ons with local activity providers and artisans are also available to book. These include bike hire from £25 per person via Channel Bike Hire (www.channelbikehire.com). To book a stay, visit www.bloomstays.com/property/the-lookerer or call Bloom Stays on 01227 903 404.

Afternoon Tea December 9, 2020

A Cosy Après-ski Afternoon Tea at Shangri-La Hotel, At The Shard, London

With limited options to travel outside of the UK, Shangri-La Hotel, At The Shard, London’s Apres-Ski winter wonderland transports visitors to the snowy Alps of Lech, Austria. #TeamCoco’s food culture writer, Eulanda Shead Osagiede, cozied up for a delightful afternoon of modern Austrian delights high above the London skyline.

Shangri-La Hotel, At The Shard, London is giving guests a European winter experience similar to what you might find in the snow-capped slopes of Lech, Austria; an alpine-inspired ski lodge reception area, cosy winter chalets, ski gondola displays, and a gingerbread village.

The festive experience would not be complete without several standout culinary experiences like their Après-ski afternoon tea at TĪNG Lounge and Restaurant. Several delightful themed treats include their black forest chocolate sponge cake, the snowball coconut mousse, and their Christmas Kombucha welcome tea that will envelop you in a cloud of wonder.

The alpine themed decor and installations make a perfect backdrop for documenting special holiday moments. If you book a late afternoon tea, make sure to grab a photo of the bauble-forest window display behind the gingerbread village. The twinkling evening lights of London below will be on full display.

On New Year’s Eve, Shangri-La Hotel London will host an Après-Ski White Party with a unique twist. Night owls can toast the close of 2020 during Last Sunset celebrations on 31 December 2020. Guests can enjoy an extravagant five-course menu made from premium locally-sourced ingredients and accompanied with fine wine pairings. Early-bird guests can ring in the New Year during a First Sunrise brunch on 1 January 2021.

Guests looking for an indulgent New Year’s Eve in, can book a decoration and celebration room package, and an in-room massage featuring Neal’s Yard Remedies essential oils.

Alternatively, if you’re looking for a laid-back alpine experience, head to Bar 31 on the ground floor to enjoy ‘Mama Macher’s Apfelstrudel,’ Raclette, Schnitzel, Glühwein and more winter warmers inside a cosy winter chalet, complete with a snow machine to provide the perfect snowy backdrop.

Après-Ski Afternoon Tea is available for £59 and £69 with a glass of Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label Brut per person. To reserve a table or book a room, please email specialevents.slln@shangri-la.com or call +44 207 234 8000. A superior double room begins at £950 per night.

Adventures May 19, 2020

CocoTravel: Island hopping the Japanese Mediterranean

Every three years, thousands of visitors descend upon the Seto Inland Sea for the Setouchi Trienniale Art Festival. Discover an art lover’s paradise within the Setouchi islands, often referred to as the Japanese Mediterranean, as Eulanda takes you on a multi-island journey over six days with our Setouchi Island travel guide.

Day 1: Tokyo

Arrive in Tokyo, and head to Tokyo Station Hotel. If it’s daytime, ignore the urge to sleep, and hit the streets of Tokyo for Japanese fare. Kick off your night with a mixed selection of yakitori and sake at Tokoshima in Sangenjaya. Here, you’ll find Chef Tokoshima serving Tokyo’s popular grilled chicken staple.

Double rooms at Tokyo Station Hotel begin at £323 per night.

Day 2: Kurashiki

Grab a traditional ‘ekiben’ Bento box, and take the direct Nozomi bullet train south to Okayama station. Upon arrival, taxi into town and check in to Ryokan Kurashiki; a traditional Japanese inn where the rooms are outfitted with tatami mats and sliding doors.

Here, the historic town of Kurashiki with it’s striking white walls and merchant townhomes, transports visitors to the Japan of yesteryear.

Take several hours to explore this picturesque city on foot. Once you’ve satisfied your curiosity, head to Tsuneki Tea Shop for a cup of roasted green tea (hōjicha). The owners of the tea shop are always on hand to give a warm welcome to each customer.

Upon returning to your room, don your Yukata robe and head to dinner at Ryokan Kurashiki. Their ten-course feast is an immaculate experience from start to finish.

Kurashiki sites of interest: Ōhashi House, Ivy Square, Kurashiki Denim Street, and Achi-jinja.

Double rooms at Ryokan Kurashiki begin at £206 per night.

Day 3: Shodoshima

After a traditional Japanese breakfast at your ryokan, catch a ferry to the island of Shodoshima. Step foot into the ferry terminal where you’ll be greeted by an installation featuring glass balls and cloths used to make the sounds of taiko drums. This ripples across the exhibit, where the clothing designs of Junko Koshino can also be viewed.

Next, visit MeiPam Yokai Art. Yokai is representative of the animistic roots of Japanese culture; often depicted in the form of figurines and sculptures. Seek out the work of Chubei Yagyu and Mitsuo Takeda–two artists out of the one hundred featured onsite during the festival.

Stone is the medium of choice for Takeda’s work, which believes that it “holds the smell of thousands of years of energy.”

End your day in Shodoshima with a stay at Mari Ryokan. With its east-meets-west decor and architectural design, Mari Ryokan fuses modern boutique elements with rustic Japanese design.

Double rooms at Mari Ryokan begin at £450 per night.

Shodoshima sites of interest: Nakabu-an Somen Noodle Factory, Angel Road.

Day 4: Naoshima

Start your day touring part of the 88-shrine pilgrimage at Joko-ji temple (Temple 8) located on Mt. Goishizan. Be prepared for a light hike, as full views over the Seto Inland Sea can only be seen upon ascending Mt. Goishizan.

Upon descending Mt. Goishizan, head to Tonosho port to catch a chartered boat to Naoshima; the most well known of the art islands.

Only a short walk from the ferry port, located among the art houses of the Honmura district, indulge in a vegan feast at Aisunao; a restaurant with a design aesthetic that can only be described as ‘hipster meets artist.’

Following lunch, check in to Benesse House; a hybrid between a contemporary art museum and a sixty-five-room hotel. Explore the property’s onsite installations and then catch a complimentary hotel shuttle, and spend the afternoon exploring nearby museums.

One of three museums designed by Tadao Ando along the shuttle route is the Chichu Art Museum. Ando is considered the architectural grandfather of the Seto Art Island project.

The entire site is an architectural masterpiece from all angles. Ando insisted that the entire building (an ecosystem of geometric shapes) should be buried within the hillside, and every piece of art should be lit by natural light sources.

Head back to the hotel for a Setouchi seafood dinner at Museum Restaurant Issen or try dining on French cuisine at Terrace Restaurant.

Double rooms at Benesse House Hotel begin at £275 per night.

Naoshima sites of interest: Benesse House Museum.

Day 5: Naoshima, Ogijima, & Fukuyama

After breakfast, visit Yayoi Kusama’s iconic ‘Yellow Pumpkin’ located at the end of Benesse House’s picturesque pier. Kusama’s contribution to Japanese contemporary art can be experienced throughout the island.

No visit to Noashima is complete without experiencing Art House Project’s Minamidera. American artist, James Turrell’s immersive light installation ‘Backside of the Moon’ is located in the house structure; whose design was conceptualised by Tadao Ando.

Upon completing your museum tour of Naoshima, head to Miyanoura port to board Seto Yacht Charters for your pre-organised yacht transfer to the neighbouring island of Ogijima.

Ogijima is one of Japan’s infamous ‘cat islands.’ With a little over 150 human residents, Ogijima’s furry counterparts and unique art installations attract 154,500 visitors per year–with a bulk of footfall due to art-related attractions.

Take time to explore the steep alleyways; where creative installations lurk at every turn. Fourteen permanent art pieces from previous festivals can be viewed on the island, but several indoor pieces are closed during winter months.

Head back to your yacht charter, and sail towards Takamatsu port. Upon dropping your belongings off at Hotel Ofutei, explore Tomonoura on foot.

Day rate onboard Seto Yacht Charters begins at £941 for up to 10 people. Double rooms at Hotel Ofutei begin at £282 per night.

Tomonoura sites of interest: Jozenji Taichorou temple, Joyatou lantern and fishing village area.

Day 6: Momoshima & Kobe

After breakfast, take a ferry from Tuneishi Port to Momoshima Island. With a population of 350, the island has seen its numbers slowly increase as its attraction grows amongst artists looking for spaces to create small and large-scale installations.

Our guide explained that artists often relocate to Momoshima to find abandoned homes. They work with local organisers to contact the owner in hopes of gaining permission to occupy the premises. Several of the artists who’ve successfully found accommodation show their work at Art Base Momoshima.

Paying homage to the island’s ageing population, Art Base is housed in a disused school building. Fans of Yukinori Yanagi will be delighted to find several large-scale installations on and off-site of Art Base.

After making your way to Fukuyama Station, take the Sakura bullet train to Shin-Kobe station, explore the city, and enjoy a Kobe beef dinner at ISHIDA Kitonozaka.

Later, take the bullet train back to Tokyo and check in at Marunouchi Hotel, before catching your flight home the next day.

Double rooms at Marunouchi Hotel begin at £230 per night

Kobe sites of interest: Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art, YokooTadanori Museum of Contemporary Art.

Travel Details:

Economy airfare to Tokyo starts at £660 (direct from £856) onboard ANA

More information on the Setouchi Islands can be found on setouchitrip.com/