Tilly Jayne Kidman - House Of Coco Magazine

Thailand February 13, 2020

How To Spend A Long Weekend In Cambridge

Growing up, I never realised quite how fortunate I was to have Cambridge as my local city. Dashing past Kings College without so much as a second glance, and meandering my way around the punting touts trying to sell me river tours. It’s only as I’ve grown older that I’ve really appreciated the beauty of my local city. Realising that, actually, despite my teenage moans of how ‘boring’ it is where I live, it’s actually pretty great. There’s the beautiful architecture, Harry Potter-like cobbled streets, cute cafés, green spaces and plenty of opportunity and innovation. Did you know Cambridge has a booming tech scene?

If you’re looking for a relaxing staycation, Cambridge is simply perfect. Small enough to see everything yet big enough not to get bored. From exploring the world-famous universities, to biting into world-famous Fitzbillies Chelsea buns, there’s plenty to keep you busy!

Here’s what you need to know…

Where to stay in Cambridge

As a local to the city, I’ve never actually had the pleasure of staying overnight in any of the hotel’s, but I have of course visited for drinks, dinner and to hold meetings. My recommendations would be one of the city’s newest openings, The University Arms hotel, or for quirky Instagrammable interiors, there’s the Tamburlaine – it’s a little further outside of the city centre but conveniently positioned right by the train station with easy access into town. Think powder pink chairs, lots of marble and statement wallpaper, it really is a blogger dream! If you’re on a budget, Cambridge is also home to the usual budget hotel’s such as Premier Inn, or, you could check out one of the many B&B’s scattered around the city.

What to do in Cambridge

For me, Cambridge truly comes alive in the summer months. The river is packed with locals and tourists sharing a glass of fizzy as they try to navigate the perils of punting (it’s NOT as easy as it looks, trust me!) and not to mention everything looks prettier in the sunshine.

Go on a Punting Tour

Cambridge is synonymous with punting, and you really can’t avoid it! Plus, it’s super fun and quite interesting too. You can opt to either join a group where you’ll have your own guide (this is often University/college students), I would probably recommend this as they have tonnes of facts and info which make the journey up and down the river much more interesting. Or, you can give it a go yourself but I’ve learnt the hard way that it’s a little tricky and requires more arm strength than I personally have. I’d recommend Scudamores, you can find them on Magdalene Street which is right by the bridge – you won’t be able to miss it, there’s generally a flock of young guys in boat shoes and navy shorts hanging around.

Visit Kings College

Kings College and its chapel is undoubtedly one of the ‘main’ attractions in Cambridge, and you can’t leave the city without having visited this masterpiece of English craftsmanship. Founded by Henry VI in 1441, the Kings College chapel is truly breathtaking. Featuring a fan-vault ceiling, stained glass windows and Ruben’s masterpiece. You can either enjoy at your own pace, or book onto one of the tours. Tickets for adults are around £9 and there’s discounts for students and children too.

Enjoy a pint in The Eagle

The Eagle is in fact the oldest pub in Cambridge and dates back to the 16th Century. This pub is very popular with both tourists and locals too, in the summer you can enjoy a refreshing drink and typical pub grub in the courtyard. The interior is fascinating, and be sure to check out the RAF bar which has the signatures of airmen from World War II on the ceiling. Oh, and did I mention it was the drinking spot of the two men who discovered DNA? Go on, google it!

Visit the Fitzwilliam Museum

You simply must stop by one of Cambridge’s most beautiful buildings, home to the Fitzwilliam Museum. This neoclassical building is an architectural dream housing art, antiques and illuminated manuscripts. It’s also free to enter which is a bonus, and there’s often different exhibitions and events happening too. Breakaway from the bustle of the city and enjoy an hour or two perusing all of the artefacts.

Check out the independent scene

Whilst I love Cambridge, if there’s one thing I’d love to see more of, it’s the return of independents in the city. There’s way too many chains that have edged their way in, but fortunately, Mill Road is still a beacon of hope! Home to independent cafés, shops and record stores, it’s definitely worth a visit. If music is your thing, swing by Relevant Records for a browse of their extensive vinyl collection – they have a great café and regular events too! Whilst wandering down Mill Road, you’ll also encounter a fabulous microbrewery and many highly acclaimed restaurants such as Bedouin.

Where to eat and drink in Cambridge

As a vegan, I will be biased for some of the more plant-friendly eateries in the city. At the moment, Cambridge is home to just two 100% vegan restaurants, but they’re pretty great. Stem & Glory is where you’ll find healthy, veg-focussed meals such as cauliflower buffalo wings, Thai green curry and salad bowls. If you’re looking for something a bit naughtier, had to Doppelgänger for dreamy plant based burgers! Aromi, Restaurant 22 and Old Bicycle Shop are also among my favourite haunts for dinner.

Thirsty? Cambridge has plenty of bars and pubs to keep the drinks flowing. For a swanky rooftop bar, head to the Varsity Hotel & Spa, it offers views over the city, but it’s a little pricey and gets very busy during the summer months. Baroosh and La Raza are great spots for a few vodkas, and there’s also tonnes of pubs if you’re looking for a cosier vibe.

Spain October 29, 2019

Wake Up Here: Barceló Teguise Beach, Lanzarote

Looking for some winter sun? We don’t blame you, and with year-round enviable temperatures, Lanzarote is an ideal choice for a winter escape. Situated on the sea front in Costa Teguise, we recently had the pleasure of spending a few luxurious nights at the adults-only Barceló Teguise Beach hotel. The hotel has recently enjoyed a complete renovation with a fresh new look but still in keeping with the islands traditional architecture and design. White walls featuring splashes of green create both an ambient and welcoming feel.

It’s often the case with larger hotels offering ‘the works’ that the rooms tend to be slightly underwhelming. Not quite matching up to the fancy sun loungers and infinity pool. This is certainly not the case at Barceló Teguise Beach, where it’s clear that just as much thought and detail have gone into the design of the rooms. There are over 300 rooms and suites here at Barceló Teguise Beach, with some offering beautiful sea views and others overlooking the pool area. Each room boasts a comfortable kingsize bed for a dreamy nights sleep, as well as other amenities including a coffee machine, kettle, minibar and TV. You’ll also find additional (and very welcome!) touches such as complimentary toiletries from The White Company and those essentials you definitely forgot to pack such as a razor and toothpaste. Guilty. Approximately half of the rooms also feature a jacuzzi bath either inside the room or on the balcony. How does a late night dip under the stars sound?

A big selling point for Barceló Teguise Beach hotel is the impressive selection of food and drink on offer, with plenty of options for those who are vegetarian, gluten-free or vegan. Breakfast is a buffet-style setup with what feels like endless options including pastries, fresh fruit, eggs, oats, yogurt and the popular fry-up options. The perfect start to the day! The buffet restaurant is also available for evening meals and follows a similar setup with a wide range of options available (we loved the vegetarian corner for meat-free guests). Don’t be concerned that this will become boring, as the restaurant enjoys themed nights with cuisine from around the world. During the day, you can pop by the Breeze Bar for a selection of tasty lunch options including sandwiches, pasta and other lighter meals. You can also enjoy the recently refreshed Champs Sports Bar, also popular with non-guests due to its location on the promenade. Here you can select a refreshing drink from the extensive cocktail list, as well as various food options (think burgers/fries, this is a sports bar!), the bar also puts on entertainment most evenings.

The hotel facilities are impressive to say the least, with a large central swimming pool surrounded by loungers – you can also opt to pay extra for access to a more secluded area with Bali-inspired beach beds. Just around the corner you’ll find a smaller infinity pool, also known as the ‘Instagram pool’ need we say more? For ultimate pampering and relaxation, book into the hotel’s luxurious spa complete with a unique numbered hydrotherapy circuit to give you the full experience! Ease any tension with relaxing massage and kick back in the sauna to sweat out the stress.

In terms of location, Barceló Teguise Beach is ideal whether you’re looking to spend a week relaxing by the pool or as a base to explore what the island has to offer. Our tip? Go and explore! Lanzarote is bursting with beautiful scenery and hidden gems, so it’s worth tearing yourself away from your sun lounger for at least a day or two. Situated along Las Cucharas beach, you can enjoy leisurely strolls up and down the coastline, and there’s plenty of shops, bars and restaurants nearby. We’d also recommend you head further afield and get familiar with other areas on the island.

Head over to Timanfaya National Park for dramatic volcanic landscapes, don’t worry it’s totally safe and you won’t be sprinting from any unexpected lava. Instead, you’ll gaze upon the aftermath of massive eruptions on the island. You’ll need to book onto a coach or private tour as this isn’t an area that can be safely explored by foot so bear this in mind! Once you’ve enjoyed an hour or two exploring Timanfaya, be sure to visit the Jameos del Agua Caves and prepare to be mind-blown. An underground cave system with a built-in restaurant and auditorium seating up to 600 people. It’s just as magical as it sounds and definitely has to be seen with your own eyes to appreciate the beauty of this unique underground location.

Other notable areas of interest on the island include Mirador Del Rio, created in 1974 by visionary architect César Manrique. Here you’ll find a bar carved into the side of a cliff – yes really – and offering beautiful views over La Graciosa. Have you ever wondered what a volcanic green lake looks like? Amongst the volcanic landscape, you’ll find a spectacular green lagoon nestled in the village of El Golfo which is also a popular destination for rustic seafood eateries, should you wish to sample some of the local seafood.

Rates at Barceló Teguise Beach start from £146 a night for a Deluxe room on a B&B basis. Find out more https://www.barcelo.com/en-gb/barcelo-hotels/hotels/spain/canary-islands/lanzarote/barcelo-teguise-beach/

Adventures October 16, 2019

Destination Inspiration: Discovering New Brunswick, Canada’s Hidden Gem

When we talk about bucket-list destinations in Canada, you might automatically assume the likes of Banff National Park or perhaps the vibrant city of Vancouver. But we’ve got a secret, a hidden gem that’s often overshadowed by nearby Nova Scotia and a destination that should be sitting firmly in your ‘to-visit’ list for 2020 and beyond, and that’s New Brunswick. Nestled on Canada’s east coast, the province boasts breathtaking scenery, beautiful towns, historic residences and endless outdoor activities including kayaking and if you’re really lucky, the chance to spot a nearby humpback or minke whale!

Looking for your next outdoor adventure of a lifetime? We’ve got all the best bits…

Where to stay

The Algonquin – St Andrews by-the-sea

When exploring the province, the quaint town of St Andrews By-the-Sea makes for an idyllic base. Wander down Water Street and browse the many interesting boutiques (a stop by Scrooge and Marley’s Christmas shop is an essential) and dine in one of the areas fabulous restaurants complete with fresh seafood and many more treats. Alongside a handful of smaller B&B type accommodations, St Andrews By-the-Sea is served mostly by The Algonquin, a world-famous hotel that might look familiar to film buffs. While never officially confirmed, a few of the local residents informed us of a visit by a certain famous king, you guessed it! Stephen King is among the list of famous faces who have checked in at the Algonquin, and now you mention it, it does resemble a hotel from a certain cult film…

Hailed as one of Canada’s finest resorts, The Algonquin first opened its doors in 1889 (back when the price of a room was $3-5!) and within 5 years the resort opened The Algonquin Golf Course which is still a magnet for golf enthusiasts today. It quickly became a hot attraction for visitors near and far. Over the years the hotel has undergone many renovation works and expansions to maintain its lavish appeal. A $30 million dollar renovation in 2012 saw the addition of an indoor pool, water slide, balcony suites and outdoor hot tubs. It’s fair to say The Algonquin truly has it all.

What to do

Take a jeep tour around St Andrews By-the-Sea

What better way to explore a new area than in an open-top jeep with one of the locals? The fabulous Genny of Turtle Shore Adventures will take you back in time to uncover the history of St Andrews, stopping by key locations such as the old prison and Pendlebury lighthouse. Knowledgable and passionate, Genny can answer all of your questions about life in St Andrews as well as many of the residents. We’re not talking people, we’re talking marine life. A keen biologist, Genny also offers ‘marine life’ tours to discover the local wildlife! Hear tales from the town, listen to amazing stories and immerse yourself in the history of St Andrews – ghost stories optional!

Drive across the sea bed to Ministers Island

Yes, really! The Bay of Fundy is home to the highest tides in the world. At high tide, the bar that connects Ministers Island is some 14 feet underwater, with the island accessible for approximately 5 hours during low tide. Once the coast is clear, you can jump in the car and drive over the seabed, avoiding any particularly softer sandy areas along the way. It’s a unique experience as a trail of cars and vans follow each other across the ocean floor and onto the island, and one that’s certainly not to be missed! Once you’ve safely made it to Ministers Island, it’s time to discover Van Horne’s estate and take a journey back in time. The railroad visionary William Van Horne’s home is open to the public, so don’t miss an opportunity to take a look around. The estate is still home to many original pieces of furniture and artwork, some even painted by Van Horne himself. You can also take a stroll down to the Bathhouse for fantastic views across the water, and don’t forget to head over to The Barn. This ex-livestock barn is a masterpiece, a two-story timber structure and once home to Van Horne’s prize-winning thoroughbred horses and Dutch belted cattle!

Take a stroll around the Kingsbrae Garden

On a sunny morning, there’s no better way to spend a peaceful few hours than a stroll around the magnificent Kingsbrae Garden. This award-winning garden is home to over 50,000 perennials with streams, ponds, themed gardens and even a few furry residents including rabbits, goats, alpacas and ducks. Wander around visual delights including the White Garden, Cottage Garden, Rose Garden and Scents and Sensitivity garden – a specially designed area built for the enjoyment of the visually impaired. Alongside endless beautiful gardens, Kingsbrae Garden is also home to an impressive collection of sculptures featuring works from previous winners of the Canadian Sculpture Competition. Relax in beautiful surroundings and pop by The Garden Café to indulge in culinary treats such as seasonal soup, pastas, tacos and an impressive dessert board.

Jump on a boat to Campobello Island

Head over to the nearby Campobello Island for simply stunning scenery and an enjoyable boat ride over to the island itself. The best way to truly get to know the island and discover off-the-beaten-track is to head on an island excursion with Island Discovery Tours. Run by Campobello resident, Peter, you’ll hear all about life on the island, discovering the best bits including the best locations for a few snaps (you may even spot a whale in the distance), Mullholland Lighthouse, views of the Head Harbour Lightstation and a visit to the summer retreat of ex US president Franklin D. Roosevelt. Here in 1921, Roosevelt fell ill with polio and spent six weeks cooped up (well, hardly, the house is actually rather spacious) in this very house. Today you can wander around and enjoy a tour of the home.

Go whale watching

One of the major draws of the province is the numerous whale watching excursions available, it’s a real once-in-a-lifetime experience and a must-do when visiting New Brunswick. St Andrews is home to a number of tour operators all of whom work together to pass on the intel to ensure all visitors hold a great chance of spying a humpback or minke whale. Once suitably dressed in your flotation suit, the team will take you out on a boat such as a Zodiac for an unforgettable two hours. Take your cameras (and a beanie hat – it gets windy out there!) and prepare to look on in awe of these majestic creatures. Sightings are usually almost guaranteed with whale sightings at around 95%. Prepare to be amazed.

Take a road trip around the province

With so much to explore, it simply wouldn’t be fair to stay in just one place! Enjoy a road trip around New Brunswick and make sure you add the capital city, Fredericton, to your itinerary. Here you’ll find the New Brunswick College of Art and Design, as well as other cultural hotspots including The Playhouse and Beaverbrook Art Gallery. Looking to stop over for the night? The Lord Beaverbrook Crowne Plaza provides a comfortable and central stay. Other areas of interest include Moncton and Saint John, but the best bit? All of the beautiful fall foliage along the way, autumn is a particularly beautiful time to visit the province.

Get up close with the local marine life

The Huntsman Marine Science Centre is a fantastic educational hub for visitors of all ages to enjoy. Say hello to the two resident seals (Loki and Snorkel) and take a look at the local sturgeon, salmon and seahorses. Time your visit with the daily feeding schedule to watch a member of the marine team feed the residents! The touch tank offers an interactive experience where you can pick up the starfish, clams and other underwater friends. Behind the scenes tours are available if you wish to find out more about the centre, the marine life and go behind locked doors…

Where to eat

(L-R: The Shadow Lawn Inn, 11th Mile, The Rossmount Inn, Braxtons at The Algonquin)

The Algonquin

As well as providing a luxurious stay, The Algonquin is also a fabulous dining experience in its own right. With two options available; the formal Braxtons restaurant or more causal bar, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Menu options include plenty of seafood (the lobster is a popular choice among diners), vegan-friendly curried quinoa and a selection of indulgent desserts.

The Rossmount Inn

Crowned the number 1 restaurant in St Andrews by TripAdvisor, the Rossmount Inn provides an ambient setting, delicious food and brilliant service. Housed in a beautiful historic inn and run by hospitality power couple Chris and Graziella Aerni. Feast upon organic cuisine with dishes such as mushroom purée soup,Bay of Fundy haddock fillet and baked blueberry cheesecake. After dinner, relax in the cosy lounge bar next door.

The Robertson at the Shadow Lawn Inn

Located in Rothesay, an upmarket community just outside Saint John, the Shadowlawn Inn offers an intimate dining experience in their Robertson restaurant with interiors to die for. Select from fresh salads, chowders, crab cakes and sticky date pudding to name a few. It’s well worth a drive over just for the brilliant food, and for veggies, you’re covered too with a number of meat-free options available.

11th Mile

When visiting Fredericton, be sure to stop by 11th Mile for a meal that’s next-level! A small but perfectly formed menu, your tastebuds will be tantalised with the flavours that come from each dish. Top tip: order a few of their ‘plates’ to share with your companion, or if you’re travelling solo…order a few anyway!

What are you waiting for? Discover Canada’s East coast gem – visit Tourism New Brunswick for more information and inspiration.

Interiors October 12, 2019

Travel Inspired Interior Design Tips For Globetrotters

Even frequent world travellers require an inspiring space to call home, a cosy haven to unwind and recoup from all of those far away travels. If saying goodbye to your adventures and returning home usually fills you with dread, then why not look to add a few travel inspired touches to your abode? Whether it’s a safari inspired bedroom or Moroccan themed patio, here are the best ways to keep the holiday spirit alive…

Create your own home jungle

Plants, plants everywhere! Introduce tropical plants into the home to create an exotic vibe and enjoy the benefits that house plants bring. From cleaner air, to an improved mood and even healing. House plants are more than just a pretty feature, they have been proved to reduce stress levels and increase work productivity. One study even found that they reduced headaches and fatigue by up to 25%. There’s never been a better excuse to pop your local garden centre for a splurge. New plant parent? Head to the cactus section, and when you feel ready, start dabbling with the trickier plants such as a banana plant or Boston fern.

Say hello to safari

Take yourself on a wild safari trip, well, the next best thing. Look to add earth tones with splashes of orange and a few animal print touches. There’s a fine line between inspired and over the top, so instead of plastering everything with animal inspired patterns (there’s definitely such thing as too much leopard print), think about adding accents instead. A leopard print cushion or zebra throw would be a good place to start!

(photo credit: Jack Thompson)

Enjoy the city life at home

Create a New York city style apartment with features such as exposed brick work, dangling industrial style lights and a few pieces of beaten-up yet chic furniture. Think up-cycled gems from the local auction house, a retro poster and anything that looks like it once belonged in a factory. Introduce a metal such as copper to reinforce the industrial look, and play around with different textures too. For the NYC dreamers out there, it’s the perfect way to recreate a slice of the big apple at home.

Experiment with Scandi minimalist living

Scandinavian interiors are known for minimalist style, cosy accents, neutral colour palettes and clean, contemporary elements. Think functionality over excess! Create your own Scandi inspired pad with simple statement furniture, muted colours and trendy accessories. Don’t be afraid to introduce splashes of colour, but keep it simple. A piece of art, cushion or floor rug are all great ways to introduce colour in a sleek and chic way. Create an open space and seamless transition from inside to out with beautiful bespoke bifold doors for Scandi style open plan living.

Design a dreamy Moroccan inspired patio

Create a beautiful Moroccan inspired patio area to enjoy (almost) all year round! Think vibrant colours and plenty of pattern with cosy seating, throws and accessories. Layer outdoor rugs, dot around beautiful Moroccan inspired lanterns, candles and pouffes. Don’t be afraid to clash patterns – whether it’s geometric and stripes or chevron and stars. Consider investing in outdoor heating to enjoy your during all seasons.

Add a touch of New England

Embrace a nautical New England theme with coastal inspired furnishings and accessories. For colours, stick to pale blues and crisp whites to create a fresh and inspiring living area. Look to add items such as wicker baskets, shell decorations, woven rugs, pinstripe cushions and a few decorative features (you could even go all out with an anchor wall feature) to truly transport yourself to Maine, New England. Almost.

Immerse yourself in a Highlands hideaway

Looking to hunker down for the winter months? Create your own cosy, log-cabin inspired hideaway to hibernate in over the colder season. Stock up on faux fur blankets, cosy autumnal candles and fluffy cushions. Compliment your soft furnishings with wooden textures and a touch of tartan to complete the hunter-lodge inspired feel. It’s the perfect way to get over the post-summer blues.

Travel lovers – is your home inspired by your adventures across the globe? We’d love to hear!

Canada October 9, 2019

5 Of The World’s Greatest Train Journeys

Taking a train journey is one of the best ways to travel! No airport stress, no queueing for check-in, just a comfortable chair and time to unwind with a good book or a listen to your favourite Spotify playlist. Not only are train journeys relaxing, they’re also a much more environmentally friendly way to travel long-haul. Chat amongst your fellow passengers, drift in and out of sleep as you race through different terrains and simply just enjoy your surroundings. There’s something quite romantic about train travel, the old-fashioned vintage vibes and nostalgia creeping in.

Intrigued about train travel? Want to book an epic journey you won’t forget? Here are the 5 best train journeys across the world that need to be added to your travel bucket-list, like, now:

The West Highland Line in Scotland

Hop aboard Potterheads, this train journey will transport you right from platform 3/4 to Hogwarts. Well, we can dream. The West Highland Line (yep, the Harry Potter one) actually connects two coastal towns; Oban and Mallaig to Glasgow and is one of the most beautiful train journeys in the UK. Enjoy breath-taking views of the mountains, lochs and rolling hills. You may even have the chance to ride in a steam engine on this route, for extra authenticity and magical feels. How about a trip to Scotland this autumn?

The Orient Express from Paris to Venice

Could it get more glamorous than Paris to Venice? We think non! After a long weekend in the chicest European capital city, race through the French countryside, through the Swiss Alps and Italian Dolomites until you wind up in Venice. It’s a fantastic way to capture the beauty of the European countryside, and from one of the most iconic trains in the world. Think elegance and luxury, this is one train journey you won’t want to end. The beautifully restored cars are a travel dream, as are the impressive dining options including a lavish afternoon tea and a four-course dinner prepared by French chefs. Bon appetite!

The Rocky Mountaineer in Canada

Canada offers endless beautiful scenery and can feel a little overwhelming given how vast the country is! One of the best ways to soak up the Canadian landscape is to travel by train. The Rocky Mountaineer is a glass-domed luxury train that provides an unforgettable experience and sights that are otherwise unaccessible. Offering three different routes all departing from Vancouver, you can select the best loop that suits you. The most popular is the classic passage to the west, with a departure in Vancouver heading all the way through to Banff. With all routes boasting such magnificent landscapes, this really is the best way to experience the famous rockies.

The Trans-Siberian Railway in Russia

The Trans-Siberian railway is the longest in the world! It’s hardly surprising given the size of its home country, Russia. With some of the routes lasting up to 7 days and taking you all the way to China, you’ll need to be in this one for the long haul. The renowned Moscow to Vladivostok (this city was actually closed off to visitors until 1990!) route offers glorious lakeside, mountain and forest views that allow you to soak up this naturally beautiful side of Russia. You’ll encounter 16 major rivers and part of the train journey even goes underground. Looking for an adventure? This is a great option for your next big rail escape.

(image: golden eagle luxury trains)

The Bergen Line in Norway

Hailed as one of the most beautiful train rides in the world, this railway line spans over 370km and a total ride time of 7 hours – you’ll need to be well equipped with your Netflix downloads and snacks – or perhaps like us you’ll just want to gaze out of the window all day. Taking you from Bergen to Oslo, you’ll race through the countryside with many incredible views to soak up along the way. Sleeper carriages are available, but why would you want to sleep when there is so much to see? Sit back and enjoy some of Europe’s best scenery, from rolling green hills to snow sprinkled terrain mountains in the colder months.

(image: Fjord Travel)

Where will your next adventure take you? Would you ever consider travelling on one of these epic train journeys? We’d love to hear your thoughts…

Travel September 23, 2019

Wake Up Here: Feldon Valley, The Cotswolds

Nestled in the rolling hills of Lower Brailes, is a luxurious lifestyle destination that provides the perfect relaxing stay for a weekend getaway in the Cotswolds. On one sunny September weekend, we packed our bags and drove down to Feldon Valley to explore everything this hotel and golf course has to offer. The hotel is located 30 minutes from Banbury and just a few miles away from the famous Cotswolds Distillery.

Greeted with an impressive entrance in an area of outstanding natural beauty, we couldn’t wait to check into our room.

While the golf course appears to be the star attraction here at Feldon Valley (the scattering of golfers confirms this), you don’t have to be a keen golfer to check-in, the hotel is also designed to appeal to travellers and families on their holidays to The Cotswolds. Greeted by the friendly reception team, we were handed our room key and set off to discover a beautiful lodge-style accommodation among the trees overlooking the golf course, hills and nature.

The newly-built lodges at Feldon Valley are truly wonderful, with only the sound of the birds chirping around you thanks to the remote location of the hotel. Our Lodge provided the perfect base for our adventures in The Cotswolds with everything you could possibly need including a fully-equipped kitchen, lounge area and even a balcony with a table and chairs overlooking the fairways and hills. Interior design is sleek and stylish, with contemporary furniture and more traditional touches in the form of vintage books. A lovely touch!

It’s not just the lodges that seriously impress, the hotel itself, restaurant and lounge areas provide a modern yet comfortable and luxurious setting. If you’re looking to sample head chef Darren Brown’s creations, be sure to book in advance as the restaurant is soon full with hungry tourists and casual diners. Dine on dishes such as ricotta dumplings, Cornish plaice and dark chocolate mousse. Vegan? No problem, you can also request a vegan friendly menu in advance.

Our spacious king-sized bed provided a great nights sleep, waking up in the peaceful surroundings of the valley with early-risers heading out for a game of golf. We enjoyed a lazy morning curled up in our dressing gowns on the decking area under the morning sun.

After soaking up our beautiful surroundings, it was time to tuck into breakfast. Served in the main restaurant overlooking the golf course, breakfast consists of a small yet satisfying buffet plus a menu with your typical ‘fry up’ options. A vegetarian sausage would have been welcome but there was still plenty in the way of breakfast foods to satisfy non meat eaters. A variety of fresh fruit, cereals and yogurt made for a perfect start to the day.

With the brand new rooms, cosy lodges and already highly-acclaimed restaurant, it won’t take long for this hidden gem to secure its status as THE luxury destination to check in to for a weekend in the Cotswolds. We had a truly fabulous stay and can’t wait to head back for a peaceful retreat away from the city.

Book your stay at Feldon Valley

California September 9, 2019

The Ultimate 4-Week California Road Trip Itinerary

Embarking on a California road trip is a journey of a lifetime. Discover everything this unique state has to offer from breathtaking National Parks, to white sandy beaches, rugged coastline, and the world’s tallest trees. Planning on escaping to the Cali coast? Check out our ultimate 4-week itinerary…

Stop One – San Francisco (3 nights)

San Francisco makes for a great starting point for your road trip, the high volume of flights means you can generally bag a return for under £600, and even less if you hold out for sales and offers. It also provides a great first stop in the loop we’re about to take you on, not to mention it’s a fantastic city to explore with tonnes of sights to see and things to do! Once you’ve beaten the jet lag and filled up on the hotel breakfast buffet, head out and embrace all this city has to offer. We always feel that San Fran is a city of two halves, you’ve got the tech-city high rise buildings in the centre, and then the cute Pier 39 with a more vintage, historic feel. While you’re in San Francisco be sure to make visiting Alcatraz Island a priority in your itinerary, if you love a prison documentary like us, you’ll love Alcatraz, If not, you’ll still love it anyway! The night-time tours sell out fast though so be sure to book in advance.

Make sure you visit:The Painted Ladies, Golden Gate Bridge, Lombard Street, Union Square, Twin Peaks, Alcatraz

Top tip: Pack your hiking boots and set off early for a sunrise view of the city from Twin Peaks

Stop Two – Yosemite National Park (3 nights)

One of the most inspiring and naturally beautiful destinations on the planet, Yosemite National Park. The drive from San Francisco to Yosemite is not for the faint hearted. Especially as you wind your way up the mountains in an RV which feels like the width of the road with no barriers to save you. Oh, the memories! Once you’ve safely made it to your campsite, you can enjoy all that this incredible National Park has to offer. The ‘official’ campsites sell out very quickly, and are quite tricky to secure but don’t let that put you off because there are tonnes of amazing sites scattered outside of the official National Park grounds that are just as beautiful.

Make sure you visit: The Mirror Lake trail

Top tip: Get to the park entrance early, and if you’re planning on jumping on one of the bus services into the park, set your alarm as these can fill up super-fast

Stop Three – Sequoia National Park (2 nights)

Sequoia doesn’t get quite as much attention as Yosemite, but it’s definitely not to be missed. Approximately three hours south, you’ll stumble upon another area of stunning beauty, and the biggest trees you’ll ever see in your life. No really, Sequoia is home to the world’s biggest tree. General Sherman! Get your camera at the ready, there’s endless opportunities for the gram.

Make sure you visit: River view restaurant, a classic-American feeling bar/restaurant popular with biker crews and with views of the rapids

Top tip: Pack for all weather eventualities, we visited in June and the park was covered in snow

Stop Four – Las Vegas (4 nights)

From Sequoia, you can embark on a six hour stretch to Vegas. Technically Nevada, but close enough to squeeze into your California road trip. Las Vegas really is one of a kind, and has to be experienced at least once in your lifetime. It’s a love it or hate it kind of place, and you’ll never truly know how you feel about Vegas until you step foot into this bizarre yet strangely captivating part of America. It’s flash, it’s tacky, it’s weird, but also kind of wonderful.

Make sure you visit: Old Las Vegas, Neon Museum, Arts District, Las Vegas sign, Bellagio Fountains at night, Cirque du Soleil show

Top tip: Don’t pick up a $25 bottle of water in your hotel to have a look. There is in fact a fancy weight mechanism and they will charge you for that bottle as soon as you pick it up. We learnt the hard way with a $75 bill for Fiji water. Can you tell we’re not over it?

Stop Five – San Diego (4 nights)

San Diego is sorely underrated in our humble opinion, for ultimate cool-girl Cali vibes, this is the place to be. More relaxed than LA but with more going on than Laguna, San Diego is renowned for its cool art scene, amazing beaches, beautiful harbour and green spaces. You can easily fill four nights in San Diego, and we bet you’ll be tempted to stay another with so much to explore and an addictive laid-back, carefree vibe. There are 16 museums in Balboa Park alone, trust us when we say you won’t run out of things to do here.

Make sure you visit: Balboa park, La Jolla, Gaslamp Quarter, Coronado, Pacific Beach, Seaport Village

Top tip: Head by the Gaslamp Quarter at night for the best bars, and stop by Little Italy for a yummy pizza. Civico 1845 offers a great vegan menu

Stop Six – Laguna Beach (1 night)

Remember when life was simpler and all you had to worry about was setting Laguna Beach to record? Oh, how we miss the days of Lauren Conrad, Stephen Colletti and Kristin Cavallari. If like us, you’ve been dreaming about Laguna Beach since high school days, you won’t be disappointed. This seven-mile stretch of oceanfront consists of over 30 beaches and coves, with plenty of spots to dip your toes and lay back under the California sunshine. This small coastal city has a high-end chic feel, and just one glimpse into the hills will tell you all you need to know about the residents. How we can dream.

Make sure you visit: Victoria beach

Top tip: Soak up the peace and tranquillity, because LA is coming to get you

Stop Seven – Los Angeles (5 nights)

Rodeo drive, baby! Los Angeles can feel overwhelming for first-time visitors, the sprawling city can feel a little disjointed but after a day or two, you’ll soon feel at ease in the city of stars. With so much to fit in, you’ll need at least 5 nights to soak it all up. A car is essential, although if you’re not keen on driving around your RV there are plenty of Ubers so getting from A to B is quite easy. If you can, try and split your stay so you can enjoy different areas of the city. You can explore the views of the famous beaches and go on whale watching Los Angeles. West Hollywood is great but after a couple of nights you’ll probably want to escape to somewhere a little calmer. Santa Monica is a beautiful part of LA, with beachfront hotels, trendy bars, restaurants and boutiques.

Make sure you visit: Santa Monica, Venice Beach, Melrose Avenue, Universal Studios, Griffith Observatory, Los Angeles County Museum of Art, Venice Canals, The Grove

Top tip: Be prepared to feel underwhelmed by Hollywood Boulevard, it’s looking quite tired and rough these days but there are so many more amazing places to visit

Stop Eight – Santa Barbara (2 nights)

Santa Barbara is where many city folks go to retire when they’ve had enough of LA, or so we were told anyway. It’s not hard to see why either, with beaches that can rival LA and plenty of green spaces, Santa Barbara is a much-needed rest from the crazy buzz of Los Angeles. Wine tasting, shopping, golfing, surfing, eating, wandering, there’s enough to keep you busy for a few days but it is quite pricey here so if you’re looking to save those dollars then look into the various hiking trails for a fun afternoon of exploring. Damn those wealthy retirees.

Make sure you visit: Old Mission Santa Barbara, Inspiration Point, Santa Barbara Botanic Garden

Top tip: If you’re looking for an RV friendly site with easy access to the highway, Sunrise RV park is great and just a short walk to the main city area

Stop Nine – Monterey (1 night)

If you’ve caught an episode of Pretty Little Lies, you’ll know just how pretty the charming coastal town of Monterey is. Think quintessential California beaches, rugged coastline, spectacular ocean views and stunning cliffs. Wine lover? Monterey was named one of the world’s “Top ten wine travel destinations” and if that’s not reason enough to visit…

Make sure you visit: Cannery Row, Old Fisherman’s Wharf, Del Monte Beach

Top tip: Enjoy one of the most scenic drives in the world, 17-mile drive, from Pacific Grove to Pebble Beach

Stop Ten – Santa Cruz (2 nights)

As you work your way back up the coast to complete your road trip loop, be sure to stop by Santa Cruz for a couple of days. From the iconic boardwalk to the quirky downtown scene, Santa Cruz is cool, too cool. Fancy a go at surfing? There’s loads of water sports opportunities and lessons, even for the amateur surfer.

Make sure you visit: The Boardwalk and Hula’s Island Grill for amazing Hawaiian food

Top tip: Head to the boardwalk on Tuesday evening for cut price tickets

Complete the road trip and make your way from Santa Cruz back up to San Francisco for a final night or two before ending the journey of a life time…

For more information visit www.vistcalifornia.com

California August 28, 2019

Here’s How To Plan An Epic California Road Trip

There’s nothing quite like a great American road trip. Everything you’ve seen in the movies, from the derelict gas stations to the 1950’s style diners and sinister motels suddenly come to life, and spoiler alert, it’s everything you’ve ever dreamed of and more. California is undoubtedly one of the easiest places to drive in America, the breathtaking views also make it one of the prettiest, too. Discover some of the world’s largest trees in Sequoia National Park, hit the waves in San Diego, discover Hollywood in LA and retrace Lauren Conrad’s footsteps in Laguna Beach (we’re kidding, well, kind of). This wonderful state truly has it all.

Looking to plan a California road trip but not sure where to start? We’ve got you covered.

Choose Your Transport

First things first, you need to decide how you’re going to get around this beautiful but vast state and check that you have Honda Odyssey Tires. Public transport isn’t really an option here, especially if you want to visit the National Parks, and believe us, you’re going to want to. In order to take a detour off the beaten track and explore to your hearts content, you’re going to need to hire a car. There are a few options here, you could stick to a typical estate car or 4×4 if you want to fit in with the Cali crowd, or you can set your sights on something a little bigger. A camper van is ideal for road trips, allowing you to save money on accommodation and also experience a taste of the wilderness. There’s nothing quite like an evening spent in a campsite under the stars at Yosemite National Park. You could either opt for a compact modified truck, or if you’re feeling brave then there are tonnes of RV hire options in America.

If you want to experience California at your own pace while on the road but prefer to spend the night in hotels, opt for a vehicle from rental company Hertz, who have luxury vehicles available for all part sizes.

Draw Up A Rough Route

There’s something quite magical and romantic about jumping into the car with nothing but a screwed up old road map and a desire to see where the road takes you. While spontaneity is great, a road trip does require a certain level of planning. For example, many of the National Park campsites sell-out super quick, so you do need to think about your route ahead of your trip. Likewise, many of the popular California-based attractions such as Alcatraz night tours (side note: Alcatraz is an amazing afternoon out!) sell-out in advance. To enjoy the best of both worlds, plan your key stops but leave a few days here and there to leave it up to fate. If your itinerary is too regimented, you’ll lose out on that sense of adventure, so try and strike a balance here.

Route Suggestion: Generally, LA and San Francisco make for the best starting points for your road trip due to the volume of flights. If you’re looking to spend around a month in the Golden State, start by flying into San Fran, enjoy a few nights in the city and then take a drive to Yosemite National Park, from here head south to Sequoia, you could make a stop in Vegas, and then head down to San Diego. Now you’re on the coast, breathe in that fresh ocean air and work your way back up to where it all started, be sure to stop by Laguna Beach, Monterey, Santa Barbara and Santa Cruz, and of course, it wouldn’t be a California road trip without an LA pitstop.

Set A Budget (and then a backup)

You’d be surprised at the number of unexpected costs that creep up on you during your road trip. Parking is a killer in the US, with many car parks and hotels charging up to $50 a night, which can really start to add up after a month on the road. This is why staying in National Parks and researching campsites is a must-do for keeping costs down. Set yourself a spending budget but be prepared to go over and make sure you have a back-up just incase, whether that’s an interest free credit card, or rainy day fund. California isn’t the cheapest of states, and if you want to enjoy every moment then you do need to save up a few dollars.

Take Out All Of The Insurance

You never think it’s going to happen to you, until it does. Just like the time we got a flat tyre and several warning lights in the middle of the Mojave desert and had to call out a mechanic to fix our van under the scorching sun. It’s all part of the fun though, right? What would have been a costly few hours was fortunately covered by the extra insurance we took out on the van for around $70 or so. You can never be too careful, and the last thing you’d want is a financial crisis ruining your road trip. It’s also so, so important that you take out full travel insurance, have you seen the cost of medical care in the USA? You’re not gonna want to.

Plan Out Your Activities

Again, this is about striking the balance between being prepared but also not ruling out any grounds for spontaneity. A little research is often required to find out about the hidden gems, the locals favourite spots and the best food in town. It doesn’t hurt to have a pre-prepared list of activities and sights that you want to tick off, this will also save a lot of time spent Googling ‘things to do in San Diego’ while you’re trying to absorb a new city and take it all in. Here are a few of the key attractions in the big cities that you might want to stop by…

San Francisco

Pier 39
Union Square
Twin Peaks (the views over the city are insane)
Alcatraz Island
Lombard Street
The Painted Ladies
The Golden Gate Bridge

Las Vegas (ok not technically California, but a great stop to take en route to San Diego)

Cirque Du Soleil Show
Bellagio Fountains
Breakfast in ‘Paris’
Neon Museum
Arts District

San Diego

Pacific Beach
La Jolla Beach
Gaslamp District
Seaport Village
Balboa Park

Los Angeles

Dodgers Baseball Game
Universal Studios
Melrose Avenue
Hollywood Boulevard
The Grove
Santa Monica
Venice Beach
Get yourself a Go Los Angeles Card for discounted and exclusive entries into some of the cities best

Accept That You Can’t Do It All

You’re never going to discover the whole of California in a month, six months, even a year. It’s a huge state that you’re likely to only scratch the surface on, but that’s fine, because California will always be there. Spend less time panicking about cramming everything into your trip, and more time enjoying the beautiful stops that you do take. Enjoy the moment and the freedom of being on the road.

Get that road trip playlist at the ready.

For more information on planning the Climate Californian Road Trip, visit www.visitcalifornia.com