Argentina - House Of Coco Magazine

Argentina November 9, 2023

Women Worldwide : Not Afraid to Stand out with Camille Defago

Camille Defago might only be 21 years old, but this girl is one to watch. Born and raised in Lima, Peru she is passionate about fashion. Her mission as a designer is to empower creativity in to everyone that wears her clothes and she offers something original, vivid, and extrovert with her designs. Think bold and bright, Camille Defago is the brand that will brighten up even the darkest of days.

Entrepreneurial from a young age, Camille was always destined for greatness. We spent some time with her to find out more about her, the brand and her plans for the future…

Tell us about the journey that lead you to Camille Defago the brand… Oh my god I’ve been through so much, hahaha. When I was 15 I started designing collages but didn’t have the confidence to publish them or show them. When I moved to Buenos Aires I decided to create a Instagram account with a fake name and started posting my collages. I started getting lots of engagement and reactions so I decided to change the name to By Camille Defago. Then I moved back to Lima and printed my collages on big frames, I sold every single one of them. This encouraged me to create my first brand called Viva la Vida, it was a brand of men’s swimwear that were printed with my colorful collages. I had such a terrible experience making my first summer campaign for Viva la Vida (because of the photography and video team) that when I sold every swim short I decided to leave the brand aside and not continue with it. I didn’t want people to know me as a random brand, I wanted people to know me by my name, Camille. This is when I decided to launch myself as a designer and started creating pieces under my name as a designer. You want your customers to feel empowered when wearing your designs, how do you achieve this? I achieve this by offering extrovert, colorful, joyful designs. Each collage has a story and great memories behind them. People highlight from the rest each time they use my clothing because of the color. I don’t want them to feel ashamed about standing out from the croud, from breaking boundaries, for being different and original, I want them to feel empowered, GREAT. Achieving this through strong and bold collages. Bright, colourful and bold, your designs make a statement. Who is your dream customer? My dream customer would definitely be top celebrities. I would love someday to dress Chiara Ferragni, Alexa Chung, Bella Hadid and other jet setters. But my actual dream customer is a girl who is confident of herself, who loves everything about her, LOVES to travel and spend her summer’s in Mykonos or on the beautiful beaches of France. She is confident, strong, bold, she is light and definitely stands from the crowd. She doesn’t care what people think about herself, she is true to herself and to her personal essence.

Only 21, you have achieved so much with the brand already. What has been your proudest moment?

I know I have achieved a lot of things by now but I have so much to go through. I have so many projects, visions and idea to take my brand to the next step. My proudest moment was my first fashion show which was this December 2019. We put on a great show: 20 international and national models, we did it at a huge house which was built 50 years ago so it had a renaissance twist to it, my collages were projected on the walls of the house, 150 guests, it was amazing.

Talk us through an average day at the business?

We have a weekly team meeting every Monday in which we talk about each months objectives and each team member’s tasks. Once a month in a week meeting we brainstorm about new ideas and visions that can be added to the brand. In this way I involve my team members and consider their ideas and opinions. I want them to feel as part of the family, part of The C Team. I want them to be as passionate to the brand as I am.

What are your plans for the future? I have changed my mind many times. I wanted to open physical stores in London, Dubai, Japan, New York and others. But learning about the new consumer now a days I have decided to invest 100% on e-commerce. Our consumers are changing into online consumers, not physical. So now my plans for the future is to focus on keep selling worldwide through fashion e-commerce platforms. I also have in my plans making pop up’s in beaches like Mykonos, Ibiza, Majorca, Sardinia, Santorini, Marbella, Corfu and other top destinations. I want to focus also on creating mind-blowing fashion editorials, amazing marketing campaigns, and taking my brand all around the world! My plans for the future and my main goal right now is to have the opportunity to showcase my collections at any fashion week: Paris, London, NYC, Milan. Anyone of them would be great and huge for the brand. Since launching the brand, what has been your highlight?

Definitely having the possibility of being featured on respected fashion magazines. Literally when I started my brand, my long term goal was to be showcased in Vogue. I had less than a year with the brand and I was featured on the most respected fashion magazines in the world: Vogue, Tatler, Vanity Fair, Condé Nast Traveller.

Looking back, is there anything you would do differently? I believe everything I have been through has happened for a reason. I wouldn’t do anything different because it has made me who I am today as a designer, brand and person. I have learned so much in the business, without even studying Fashion Design. (I study communications hahaha). I know all of my experiences will take me somewhere big.

Our readers love to travel, what destination is at the top of your bucket list?

Definitely, The French Rivera, Mykonos, Amalfi, and Bali.

What quote do you like to read when you are lacking motivation? “You will never influence the world by trying to be like it” For anyone wanting to start their own fashion business, what advice would you offer?

Everything is about taking risks, you got to take risks in order to grow.

Don’t worry about stress, its just part of the process. That’s the beauty of it. Enjoy it.

JUST GO FOR IT.

What are your plans for the business in 2020?

My future for this year is to produce a swimwear collection for summer 2020 (Europe & USA), focus on creating mind-blowing editorials, and creating a beautiful campaign that involves my country, Peru. I will take and empower my collages into the three regions of Peru: Coast, Highlands & Jungle..

Find out more… www.camilledefago.comCamille has recently launched a blog on her website to talk about entrepreneurship, culture, fashion, art, and other factors that have made her and the brand what they are today..Instagram:Brand: @wearcamilledefagoPersonal: @camilledefago

Argentina November 9, 2023

Best Summer Wines for You

Its summer, it’s hot, and you want to go to the beach and have a nice splash in the sea. Meanwhile, some of us would prefer staying indoors since not every one of us like soaking in the hot and fiery sun. Both would be much more enjoyable with a nice glass of wine in hand, sipping the heat away with our favorite beverage. Most people would opt rosé over red since the weather is starting to heat up, which is understandable.

There is this notion that red wines are more suitable to drink in winter which is understandable. However, if red is your all-time favorite, you shouldn’t choose other wines since there are red wines that are suitable for the summer heat.

In reality, even in summer, as opposed to what a lot of people say, red wines have traits that are suitable even in the hot weather. Red wines are best when chilled at the right temperature, which is excellent if you want to ease the humidity of the air. Along with low tannin and alcohol levels, you could surely indulge a little bit more without getting wasted and missing out on all the fun in the sun.

But still, choosing the best wine would be bothersome and exhausting, after all, there are a lot of them out there, so here are a few suggestions for you to try in Sokolin’s Wine Rating.

Barbera

With black cherry flavors with peppery-licorice flavors, along with a zesty finish, this wine is perfect for outside dining in a summer evening. This wine is also ideal for those people who don’t like fruity wines with a jammy texture.

Beaujolais

Sipping this wine delight is a wonder to behold as its taste would make you think of blueberries, violet atmosphere, with a little bit of loamy sand, enough to make you feel of a luscious garden of berries. Along with an excellent taste and aroma, it could also come as affordable as the average price for a bottle is $20.

Cinsault

Imagine someone throwing in a bunch of red berries in a blender; the outcome would be a red and fruity flavor and texture. The taste of this wine is acidic with a floral aroma that could counter its boisterous cherry flavor.

Frappato

This wine is a real masterpiece that came from Sicily, and still, it is underappreciated. The flavor is a mixture of candied oranges and raspberries with a low tannin level for easy drinking. This wine is a perfect pair for relaxing after having a fun time under the sun.

Nerello Mascalese

Another Sicilian treat with a lot of fruitiness and gritty texture, like the volcano where its grapes grow. This enjoyable delight has a severe tone into it, full with sour cherries, currants, and wild strawberries, this wine would surely be an adventure for you.

Gamay

Typically made from Burgundy, this French wine is used for a well-known autumn wine that is Beaujolais Nouveau. Gamay is light to drink, and it appeals to a lot of aromas such as cherries, black peppercorns, and dried fruit.

Tempranillo

This wine was made from a grape that was once commonly thought as a relative of pinot noir grape. This wonderful grape is often included in the mixture to create Rioja. When used solely to create wine, it produces lean wines and light. Cerro Anon Reserva and Rodei Tinto Rioja are great examples of wine made from the Tempranillo grape.

Nebbiolo

This intensely aromatic wine is created from a wine that is almost exclusively grown in the Piedmont region in Italy. The grape is used to create wines that are rich in flavor and taste like Barolo and also used to create lighter ones with big fruity flavors and spiciness.

Party Malbec

Made by an Argentinian winemaker Matias Riccitelli, this excellent wine was made with an unoaked style that emphasized on violet floral fragrance and black cherry flavors that is perfect with every meal with red meat in it. Summer is no excuse in missing out on the red meats, and what would possibly be a great companion in eating meats but having a great wine of Party Malbec in your glass after an exhausting but fun time on the beach with your friends and family.

Takeaway

Summer is a season of fun and adventure under the hot sun. After all the tiring activities like swimming in the sea, barbecue, road trips or even sunbathing, it would be nice if you have an excellent wineglass in your hand filled with your preferred red wine. Choosing the right wine would require you to do a lot of research and experimentation but at the end of the day, finishing a blissful day filled with fun with a perfect wine in your hands is the best.

Author Bio

Scarlett Wells is a freelance writer and wine enthusiast. She is an active critique examining all levels of wine types so she can produce reviews and articles that will help guide every consumer in selecting the right kind of wine to drink. Aside from that, she wrote a lot of blogs maximizing the real usage of wines. In her free time, she readsa lot about food and beverage pairing in order to help her become an effective mentor inspiring everyone to maintain a fit and fab lifestyle.

Argentina November 9, 2023

The Most Underrated Cities in the World

The world has so many beautiful cities with breath-taking sceneries, activities to do, and places to visit. Many of these towns are very famous, and it’s a dream of every intrepid traveller to visit them. Such cities include London, New York, Moscow, Tokyo, Dubai, and even Singapore. However, there are several cities that are so underrated but have very captivating sceneries. Cities like Budapest, Bled, and Moscow are considered to be off the beaten path, but they are the cities that will give you the best experience in the world. So, go ahead, book that Jettly flight, and get exploring them! Listed below are the most underrated yet very scenic cities around the world.

Auckland, New Zealand

It’s among the major cities in New Zealand. The city is a Metropolitan center on the North Island that boasts of two harbors, magnificent and natural landscapes, and volcanoes. It has an intriguing mix of the traditional Maori and little touch of western culture. There are very many activities to do in Auckland. These include visiting the Skytower, the Auckland Domain, the zoo, the aquarium, the war memorial museum, and the Tiritiri Matangi Island.

Banff, Canada

This is one of the cities I must go back to. The city is filled with very many fascinating places and sceneries to visit, for example, the Banff National Park, the magnificent mountains and lakes. Apart from the wildlife and scenic views, Banff has very great restaurants with delicious meals, delightful boutiques, and shops. One can also visit the Fairmont Banff Springs, the bow falls, the cave and basin National Historic site, the tunnel mountains, the Upper Hot Springs, and many more lovely sites.

El Nido, Philippines

With a very gorgeous and clean beach, this resort town on the Filipino island of Palawan is truly an off-the-beaten-path town. The city is known for its beaches with white sands and coral reefs and amazingly clear waters from the lagoons. Near the town is an island known as Shimizu that has water filled with all kinds of fish. The areas also have very many diving sites, such as the Dilumacad island tunnel that leads to a cavern under the water.

Mendoza, Argentina

Mendoza is the largest wine region in Argentina. During my visit, I was excited to visit one of the bodegas for a wine tasting and a tour around the wineries. Apart from that, the city streets are evergreen and leafy, and the buildings full of modern art decor on buildings across the city. I also got a chance to visit the Museo Municipal de Arte Mordeno, a city that displays modern and contemporary art.

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is the capital city of Hungary that is divided into Buda and Pest by the Danube River. The city is also referred to as ‘the Paris of the East’ because of its magnificent architecture that makes Budapest look and feel awesomely unique. Several places that make Budapest a great destination include the Danube River, the ruin bars, thermal bath, historic churches, and the castle hill. Their traditional Hungarian cuisines are to die for.

Safed, Israel

Also known as Tzfat, this is a city in Northern District, Israel. Tzfat is said to be the birthplace of Kabbalah. It was also regarded as a Holy city shortly after the Jews were expelled from Spain in the early 1940s. It is also the highest city that is elevated over 900 meters high in Galilee. The city has the top most attraction centers frequently visited, including the Bat Ya’ar ranch. Soul and Art fine art gallery, Abuhav synagogue, The Ashkenazi Ha’Ari synagogue, and the Old City of Safed.

Galway, Ireland

Galway is known for its wild ‘stag and hen’ parties. The Irelanders are known to throw the wildest bachelor and bachelorette parties before getting hitched. The city is also known for its Irish character and spirit, starting with the pubs, their Irish folk music, and delicious cuisines. On the last trip I took to Galway, I was privileged enough to visit the breath-taking cliffs of Moher. I also visited very scenic and educational places, including the Spanish Arch, the Galway cathedral, the museum Lynch’s castles, the Atlantaquaria National aquarium, and a ride on the Aran Islands ferries, and even shopping on the streets.

Argentina November 9, 2023

Our Stay at the Kempinski Hotel Bahia, Marbella

It’s no surprise that Marbella has long been a hotspot for party-going, sun-worshiping Europeans. It sits on Spain’s south coast and is just a stone’s throw from Malaga, making it both convenient and beautiful.

Recent years have seen the Spanish holiday resort become known for its beach bars, white parties and Champagne-spraying extravaganzas, but these days Marbella is reinventing itself as Spain’s heart of luxury.

The quaint old town helps hugely in this, as it injects just that right amount of culture to any break spent here. Here at House of Coco, we can vouch for Marbella being ideal for relaxation, rejuvenation and revival.

At the forefront of this movement is Kempinski Hotel Bahia, a beachfront hotel in nearby Estepona which is perfect for a couple’s retreat, a family holiday or a girl’s getaway in equal parts.

Kempinski’s Bahia resort has style and luxury in abundance, so when we were invited to stay we almost couldn’t contain our excitement.

When we arrived at Kempinski Bahia we were immediately blown away by the entrance space. First impressions count here, and the ground floor is large, spacious and contemporary. Light floods through the floor-to-ceiling windows which boast views over the sea, and Black Rose the Bar serves up some of the best cocktail creations on the Marbella-Estepona coast. Seriously – you’ve got to try Raspberry Eve.

Once we’d finished taking far too many snaps of the recently renovated lobby, we checked into our room which was just one floor up. The sleek interior design continued through to the bedrooms, which were spacious and palatial. In all honesty, we’d have quite happily stayed in the bedroom for the entirety of the stay – if there wasn’t so much else to see, of course.

It boasted views over the Mediterranean sea, pool and sub-tropical gardens and came complete with a sitting area, desk and a beautiful marble bathroom. Slippers and robes awaited us, as well as fresh bread and tomato chutney.

It’s small touches like these which make every stay at Kempinski Bahia so special – the devil really is in the details.

READ MORE: The Best Beach Clubs in Marbella

After a well-deserved lie-down in our new home, we headed for another well-deserved lie-down outside. The outdoor space at Kempinski Bahia is expansive; despite it being a huge hotel, you don’t feel on top of the other guests outside.

With a shop, a handful of pool bars and private access onto the beach, there’s not much more you could wish for.

Perhaps our favourite spot in the hotel turned out to be Spilers, a stylish, bright and airy beach-side restaurant.

Whether you’re a guest at Kempinski or not, lunch or drinks (or both) at Spilers is a must. It has indoor and outdoor seating, and an all-round contemporary vibe. What’s more, the menu is totally inviting and will appeal to everyone in your party.

It is the perfect place from which to break up your day by the pool with a wine drenched lunch, and specialities include fresh fish, Argentinean flame-grilled dishes, burgers and Artisan pizzas. Whatever you do, don’t leave without trying the tuna tartare.

Breakfast the following morning was a similarly delicious affair. The friendly and attentive staff sat us on the terrace outside overlooking the sea. We enjoyed the day’s fresh speciality juice of strawberry and watermelon before indulging on the breakfast buffet inside.

From breads and cheeses to fresh fruit, pancakes and all of the components of a Full English, no breakfast stone was left unturned. Our morning had been set off to a simply delightful start.

We’re guessing you won’t be in any rush to leave the resort, but if you fancy any afternoon out during your stay, there is plenty around to do. Follow in our footsteps and visit Marbella’s Old Town, or enjoy an evening at Ocean Club (they’re now open for summer!).

Dragging ourselves back to London after a weekend spent in luxury at Kempinski Bahia was tricky, but thoughts of visiting again very soon made the whole thing a little easier. We can’t wait to return and enjoy food at the hotel’s other highly-rated restaurants. Whether you’re looking for the perfect spot for a romantic and relaxing holiday or a well-deserved weekend with the girls, Kempinski Hotel is sure to deliver.

Kempinski Hotel Bahia (www.kempinski.com/marbella) offers a nightly rate in a Grand Mediterranean Room from €240 (low season) and €770 (high season). Prices based on two sharing a double room on a B&B basis.

EasyJet (www.easyjet.com) offers flights to Malaga from £32.99 on way, from London Gatwick.

Argentina November 9, 2023

The 5 Casinos Poker Lovers MUST Visit

Poker is, without a doubt, the most popular card game in the world, played by millions and regularly portrayed in both film and TV. If you get to grips with basic poker terms, learn a few strategies and have a decent knowledge of the rules you can enjoy poker in some of the most glamorous settings in the world.

When you think of amazing casinos to play poker around the world your mind may automatically take you to Las Vegas, but there are other appealing venues outside of the Nevada desert.

Read on for our comprehensive guide to the 5 best casinos to play poker in around the globe.

Casino De Monte Carlo

Location: Monte Carlo, Monaco

Opened: 1863

The idea of opening a dedicated casino in Monaco was first pioneered by Princess Caroline in an attempt to avoid financial ruin for the ailing Monegasque economy.

Princess Caroline was incredibly successful at boosting the economy of Monaco with this casino as it brought in tourists from all over Europe. Colonial super powers such as France, Germany and Britain at this time accounted for the highest number of visitors as rich upper class people chose Monte Carlo as their opulent playground.

Poker is incredibly popular in this casino and their regular games tend to attract some of the biggest spenders in Europe. If you’re going to play here you either need to have a lot of cash or be incredibly confident in your poker abilities!

Casino De Monte Carlo is probably one of the most famous gambling resorts in the world, having featured in several incarnations of James Bond as well as Ocean’s Twelve to name but a few.

Take a look at an exclusive private tour of one of the most amazing casinos in the world.

Les Ambassadeurs Casino

Location: London, United Kingdom

Opened:1941

One of the most historic casinos in the United Kingdom, Les Ambassadeurs or ‘Les A’ as it’s known by its patrons was first opened in the mid 20th-century. Previous owners include the Conyngham family and Leopold de Rothschild, son of Baron Lionel de Rotschild.

The venue was re-opened 28 years ago and plays host to a range of diplomats, royalty, celebrities and aristocracy. Phillip Green, former CEO of British Home Stores almost put the casino out of business with huge wins of £2 million at the roulette table in 2006.

The intimate private room named in honour of Leopold de Rothschild is one of the best places to play poker in Europe. It’s reserved for small and intimate gaming parties so you can only expect to get an invite if you’re a high-roller.

Casino de Montreal

Location: Montreal, Canada

Opened: 1993

This Canadian venue is one of the largest casinos in the world by floor space, and a stunning structure that consists of three interconnected buildings. It also contains over 3,200 slot machines and 115 gaming tables along with a huge array of virtual games.

The casino mixes traditional and modern with its décor, whilst featuring a series of ornate furnishings the casino also has a number of wide, spacious windows and high ceilings. Texas Hold ‘Em poker has been a real area of interest for the Casino de Montreal in recent years as they have sought to wrestle back customers enticed by online poker companies.

Casino de Montreal has attracted some of the highest-profile poker players in the world to it’s huge prize pot poker tournaments. For the amateur player there is plenty to enjoy away from the table too with great restaurants and bars on-site.

The Casino de Montreal has put Canada on the map as one of the best gambling destinations in the world, rivalling some of the venues south of the border.

Regency Casino, Mendoza

Location: Mendoza, Argentina

Opened: 2004

Situated in the heart of Mendoza, Argentina the Regency Casino is undoubtedly the best in the whole of South America. Overlooked by the slopes of the Mendozan vineyards, the Regency sits elegantly in front of La Plaza de Independencia in the town square.

The building is an old Spanish colonial structure with a stunning façade featuring decorative frescos. Inside the casino is the epitome of quaintness, with only 19 table games and 650 gaming machines.

The Regency doesn’t have the grandiose allure of some of the world’s biggest casinos but its cosy and welcoming. If you needed an extra incentive to travel there, the casino hosts a series of intimate poker events to cater for all budgets.

The Bellagio

Location: Las Vegas, USA

Opened: 1998

Thanks to its stunning façade and presence in a series of films, music videos and TV shows, the Bellagio is the most well-known and most visited casino in the world. The mesmerizing light fountains are the first thing that will catch your eye as you pull up outside the Bellagio.

Beyond the eye catching choreography of the fountain is the Mecca of gambling, with a poker room nicknamed ‘the players second home’ that often sees games exceeding the $1 million mark. Blackjack, Roulette, Craps, Baccarat and even Chinese poker can be played in the main gaming room.

Further to that there are over 2,300 slot machines in the main hall with some of the best slot games in the world available. 5 of the finest restaurants in the whole of Las Vegas are situated on site for you to enjoy as well as a host of designer shops.

Adventures November 9, 2023

Top destinations for a boating holiday in the winter

Boating is definitely one of the most popular choices for holidays in winter, as you can escape the cold and enjoy some sun and blue waters in countries that are warm all year long. Besides that, yacht charter holidays are great for the ultimate relaxation, giving you a sense of luxury and independence. The best part about boating holidays, however, is how easy it is to book. There are some high quality yacht charter companies that make boat hire as simple as booking a hotel.

After that, it is only a matter of choosing the perfect destination. Here are some of the most beautiful boating holiday destinations:

Latin America

One of the most impressive destinations for a yacht charter is Latin America, with an endless list of places and countries to visit within the area. Latin America’s coast is inundated with deserted beaches where you can stop off to explore.

To experience the always passionate Latin culture, you can also visit Brazil, Argentina or Colombia. These have plenty of vibrant coastal cities to explore, full of never-ending parties, events or restaurants breathing of Latin culture.

For family holidays with a yacht charter, visiting the nature of South America and spotting some exotic animals on the way is a perfect holiday. Boating through the Amazon river will provide you with a great chance to feel adventurous and lose yourself in the wild nature. The coast of Brazil has plenty of opportunities to spot whales and dolphins as well.

Australia

Australia is a great yachting destination for a yacht charter in the winter because of the great year-round weather. In fact, it’s summer in Australia when it is winter in the UK and US, making it a great trip in the January time if you enjoy a lot of heat.

Australia is a great destination, but it varies widely on which coast you want to travel around. This gives you great variety: you could visit the popular surfing beaches, shopping and bars on the east coast, and also see the outback and more local coastline of the North or East.

Dubai

If you are hoping for a truly luxurious holiday, a yacht trip around Dubai will definitely meet all your expectations. The wealth of the country makes it very accommodating to visitors on yachts, with the vibrant coastal cities full of restaurants and shopping opportunities. The amazing view of the modern cities with some of the tallest buildings in the world make some great opportunities for photoshoots.

Besides Dubai being so modern and always busy, it also has some breath-taking nature views to offer. For instance, the Palm islands are a great contrasting destination to escape the cities for a day.

Final Word On Winter Yacht Charter

Many people’s ideas of the perfect holiday match up exactly with a boat trip: relaxing and luxurious, yet adventurous. What stops some people from experiencing it is the fear of deep waters. However, a boat trip can actually help you get over the fear of being at sea, which makes it worth trying.

There are many other incredible destinations for yachting holidays. Yacht charter in the British Virgin Islands or the US Virgin islands are some of the most common choices. The beauty of it though, is you can always be on the move and visit a wide variety of destinations in one trip. Go for it!

Argentina November 9, 2023

Discover Michelin star dining in Marbella

If you don’t know Marbella then you might think the dining scene doesn’t get much better than celeb hangouts, La Sala and Olivia’s, however you couldn’t be more wrong. Just a stone’s throw away from the Old Town of Marbella is a jewel in the Costa del Sol culinary crown, Michelin star restaurant Messina.

If you are a keen foodie looking for sophisticated dining and a gourmet treat, then this place is a must. This contemporary restaurant, with minimalist décor offers an upscale dining experience without feeling snobby. Open plan, bright and airy, Messina is chic and unpretentious with friendly and welcoming waiting staff.

The menu is a collection of eclectic unique tastes combining flavours from Spain, South America and Asia, all created by Argentinian chef, Mauricio Giovanini. Messina is named after the Italian city his grandparents come from and has held a Michelin star since 2016, when he became the third Argentine to win the highest accolade in the world of gastronomy.

Giovanini is passionate about using fresh, local produce and his menu experiments with exciting flavours and textures offering a creative menu paired with some of the best wine. It really is a feasting experience and his adventure for flavour seeps through his tasting menu which Team Coco was lucky enough to sample.

The menu regularly changes depending on what’s in season but when I visited there was 10 bite sized dishes to try, all packing punchy flavours. There’s a great balance of vegetarian, seafood and meat plates to keep most palates happy. My menu at Messina included the following:

Yucca, creamy pickled aubergine and marinated red peppers
Creamy chimichurri, tomato, and lemon
Typical Argentinean manioc flour bread
Sea urchin mi-cuit and celery root water
Garganelli cooked in mirepoix stock served with aubergine and goat cheese
Grilled white sea bass with grilled vegetables
Cow sweet bread served with creamy lemon stew and spinach
Iberian pork with creamy lentils and roasted onion
Caramelized pineapple sorbet, red pepper and pisco sour
Creamy black and milky chocolate, dulce de leche and peanut

My favourite was the Iberian pork, it was delicious, and tender served with creamy lentils and roasted onion. I literally savoured every morsel. I loved the whole menu, the tasting experience is a great way to try out Michelin star dining and at 69 Euros per head it’s good value.
If you don’t fancy the Michelin star treatment at Messina then Giovanini is sprinkling his culinary magic at Amare Beach Hotel Marbella with the creation of Hayaca, the hotel’s new pop up restaurant, featuring a fusion of different Latin American dishes.

Team Coco travelled to Marbella courtesy of Amare Beach Hotel Marbella. For more information visit www.amarehotels.com/marbella

To book a table at Messina visit www.restaurantemessina.com

Argentina February 28, 2022

TeamCocopup: The Graduate Cambridge, an idyllic dog friendly retreat on the River Cam

There is something about Cambridge that instantly makes you fall in love. Maybe it’s the punters, drifting along on the River Cam, maybe it’s the allure of the city’s cobblestoned streets, or even the hallowed halls of the numerous famous universities that call it home. Whatever it is – TeamCocopup certainly felt the love during our dog-friendly visit to the Graduate Hotel Cambridge – which takes all these elements and turns them into a truly unique hotel stay.

Part of the wonderfully quirky Graduate Hotels Group, Graduate Hotel Cambridge is an idyllic retreat located on The River Cam that was inspired by this university town’s rich traditions. Academic influences are rife, with plenty of handsome leatherbound books occupying the shelves a hanging double-helix centrepiece, and 100 year-old punting boats hung gleefully on the walls.

Colourful college crests adorn the main desk in the lobby which is manned by the lovely hotel staff. Beyond that is the Garden Bar, a striking wraparound bar, with leather barstools and cosy booths and plenty of charm. There is a broad range of cocktails and bar snacks on offer here, plus a vast array of specialty beers. It is also dog friendly – and perfect for well-behaved pooches like TeamCocopup.

We stayed in one of the hotel’s Graduate Riverview King rooms with a balcony. Overlooking the River Cam, the rooms offered all the creature comforts – with plenty of vibrant design details. An Indian-inspired headboard is matched with a bright green armchair, with punter-inspired shelving and checked curtains. The mish-mash of colour, texture, and print works very well here – and envelope you in a comfy and quirky atmosphere.

The Garden House, the hotel’s main restaurant, boasts a delectable seasonal menu that celebrates the best of East Anglian cookery. Helmed by Executive Adam Wood, this open grill kitchen is a cacophony of aromas as soon as you enter. For starters, we sampled the grilled cockles, which offered just the right kick. This was followed by the delicious, glazed beef short rib with brussels and celeriac, and impossibly-tender grilled Herdwick lamb, salsify and quince. Paired with a bottle of the restaurant’s gorgeous Argentinian Malbec and you would be hard-pressed to find a better spot for a romantic Valentine’s Day meal.

This fabulously dog friendly hotel is perfectly situated in the town’s historic centre, within walking distance to all the tourist sites, local pubs and colourful shops.

We recommend visiting Cambridge Wine Merchants for its diverse range of wines and spirits – or better yet book in for a tasting. The Old Bike Shop is an excellent, dog friendly spot for lunch and the Cambridge Botanical Garden is also another lovely dog friendly day out.

You can’t go to Cambridge and not go punting and Scudamore’s station on Granta Pi is right next to the hotel. Here you can see the Mathematical Bridge, the Bridge of Sighs and all of Cambridge’s most idyllic sites.

There is no better way to end the day than at The Graduate’s own garden, which is situated right on the River Cam. Charlie loved sitting in the freshly cut grass, while we enjoyed a nice pot of tea watching the punters slowly drift by, as they have done for hundreds of years. The Graduate is truly an idyllic retreat on the River Cam – and the ideal location for a Valentine’s Day staycation that’s more than a bit extraordinary.

Visit graduatehotels.com for more information or to make a reservation

Argentina February 14, 2022

The One with the re-education, sustainable, and eco-awareness boutique, Black and Creme

Sustainability has become a buzz word in recent years but it’s always refreshing to stumble across a brand that lives and breathes their mission, like Black and Creme. Founded by Le’Marqunita Lowe, this fashion brand operates in a holistic, conscious, and sustainable way to embrace your wardrobe with memories that last a lifetime.

Forget fast fashion and CEO’s that only care about lining their pockets, Le’Marqunita’s mission is so much more than that. With a legacy in the making, we spent some time with her to find out more…

Your list of accolades is something to admire. From being a company founder, educator, author and social justice advocate. Of all of you achievements, which one are you the most proud of?

Thank you for the compliment. To be honest, I am proud of them all. However, accolades are merely stepping stones to do the Divine work that each one of us is called to do by God. If I had to choose, it would be a social justice advocate. Everything else I do are pillars. An author gives me the voice and visuals to carry out the work. Being an educator gives me the grace to collaborate with others while we learn from each other. Being an entrepreneur is the blueprint for bringing the work together in a strategic way that is visible for the world to see.

Where did your love for sustainable fashion and clean beauty come from?

I always had a love for beauty and fashion since I was a kid. I also have such a deep respect for Nature and God. My beauty company Mercury III was actually created from me making handmade cosmetics for others before the company launched to the public in 2015. I self-taught myself how to mix minerals, I studied herbs, I researched plants, I learned colour theory, I was already a student of astrology, and I emerged myself in the study of ancient Egyptian cosmetics. Mercury III is a clean beauty company that combined my Spirituality, love for astrology, and respect for Nature into a physical product of cosmetics. Black & Cremè is the sister company of Mercury III, except it focuses on sustainable fashion. However, with Black & Cremè I noticed sustainable fashion is not accessible to many BIPOC communities, and there is a lot of exploitation that exists. It was crucial for me to integrate environmental justice and Black economics into the mission of the company to be apart of the solution to bridge this gap.

What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced as an entrepreneur so far?

My biggest challenge as an entrepreneur has been access to funding as an African American woman. While I think mentorship is amazing and crucial for entrepreneurs, I am mentored out. What I and many other Black entrepreneurs need is funding. Black economics can only shift when access to money is available to create the structures to build companies so we can give back to communities in collaborative ways. Impact is driven by heart, action, and funding.

In your opinion, what sets you apart from other sustainable fashion brands?

To be honest, I wouldn’t say we are doing anything different. We are adding our mission to a sustainable fashion space where Black voices have been ignored when it comes to environmental justice and the supply chain. Even the way we source our inventory targets this problem. We only source our inventory from sustainable designers, Black-owned businesses, and international fair trade organizations. Our sourcing focuses on building economics at the root of the supply chain.

Looking back since launching the brand, is there anything you would do differently?

I’m extremely proud of where Black & Cremè is at now and where we are heading. I wouldn’t do anything differently.

How much has social media played a role in the success of your brand?

Social media is family for our brand!! I absolutely love the influencers and models we collaborate with on Instagram and Tiktok. They are the heart and vision that brings sustainable fashion and our mission to Social media.

What is your go-to quote when lacking motivation?

“Everything is working out best case scenario”.

What advice would you offer to aspiring entrepreneurs that want to launch their own brand?

This is a very unpopular opinion, but I’m speaking based on experience running two businesses. I would tell aspiring entrepreneurs that bigger is not always better. Think about what success looks like to YOU, and don’t compare your entrepreneur journey to any other entrepreneur. Small businesses can still grow without sacrificing their morals. Stay small and utilise the resources that you already have to grow without always seeking more.

Our readers love to travel, what destination is your all time favourite and why?

It is definitely Buenos Aires, Argentina. I lived in Argentina for six months for undergraduate in college. I loved the culture, people, and history.

What’s next for the business?

My goal is plan a sustainable fashion gala where the funds can be used to help us launch our own sustainable designs!

What does self care mean to you?

Self-care is balance of your Body, Mind, and Spirit.

Follow Le’Marquinita and her journey with Black and Creme via her website and Instagram.

Argentina January 11, 2022

Three of the Best Vegan Spreads

Trying veganuary but struggling a little for inspiration? House of Coco writer Rachael Lindsay has been vegan for four years this Veganuary. She recommends her top three vegan spreads to add yummy texture and flavour to your month.

1 – ManiLife Peanut Butters

Peanut butter is so versatile. I recommend putting a spoon in Thai curries or to add flavour and protein to veggie noodles. I also love putting a dollop of ManiLife’s brand-new Cocoa Peanut Butter in my porridge each morning.

With no sweeteners or palm oil, ManiLife peanut butter is pretty much the best peanut butter you can get. They grow their peanuts on a family-run farm in Argentina and deep roast them for a rich, creamy flavour. Each pot in the ManiLife range is 100% vegan and contains less than five ingredients.

Find out more: mani-life.com.

2 – Nut Blend butters

If you aren’t a fan of peanut butter then go straight for a Nut Blend butter. With flavours from cacao, cashew and almond to coconut, macadamia and almond, these are super healthy with no added sugar and only natural spices. Nut blend butters are a brilliant ingredient to enrich your vegan baking and I would recommend including them in pancakes or banana bread. Their website has lots of great recipes you can try.

Find out more: nutblend.com.

3 – Bonsan Savoury Spreads

If you are bored of hummus and want a vegan dip for your crisps or a new filling for your sandwich, try Bonsan’s savoury spreads. All are vegan and free from palm oil. They cater to all tastes but I particularly like the beetroot and horseradish as well as the lentil and turmeric. For cream cheese lovers, Bonsan also offers an authentic almond crème that you can enjoy on a bagel (which are almost always vegan too!).

Find out more: bonsan.co.uk.