Austria

Adventures November 9, 2020

48 Hours in the Austrian Alps

While we still wait on tenterhooks to see just exactly what beholds of this year’s ski season one thing is for certain, with the kibosh on aprés ski as we know it it will be a very different experience to seasons past, perhaps even a time for some of the quieter resorts to shine.

Just before the c-word put a very abrupt end to last winter’s antics, I had the pleasure of a whirlwind weekend in the Austrian alps, on the slopes of Obergurgl in the Ötztal region. A beguilingly picturesque drive from Innsbruck, peppered with quaint villages and breathtaking passes, this resort is nestled between Sölden – famous for its appearance in the Bond film Spectre – and the Italian border.

Known as ‘The Diamond of the Alps’, it’s one of the first Alpine resorts to open in mid-November thanks to its altitude and with 25 mountain lifts and 112 kilometres of slopes there’s plenty of runs to keep you entertained for a weekend. Somewhat more of a family-friendly resort than one with the party reputation of some of its counterparts, you’re more likely to find quiet fireside fine dining than banging club nights, but given the way this season will likely pan out that’s not necessarily a bad thing.

We rolled up at the Hotel Mühle, situated on the main road out of the village on the way to neighbouring Hochgurgl; it may be a little out of the way but has an excellent restaurant and with a shuttle service down to the village and a bus stop right outside it’s within easy access of the pistes. If even that’s to much of a struggle however, the Bergwelt and the Edelweiss in the village both come highly recommended and are mere seconds from the ski lifts; perfectly located for the end of the day when one barely has the energy to carry one’s skis back to the rental locker.

It’s an excellent location for novices. Having learnt the previous year on a very busy opening weekend in Val Thorens, it was a different experience altogether to have the vast sweeping slopes almost to myself, under the expert tutelage of Ed from the Skischule Obergurgl who I can’t recommend highly enough. Amazing as my previous ski tutors have been, having a fellow Brit was invaluable in terms of building essential trust and rapport as a newbie and soon enough I was flying down the blues solo. With one previous season under my belt I was very much still a novice, but with four pretty experienced skiers in our party they were undoubtedly thrilled with the plethora of slopes on offer, not just in Obergurgl but in neighbouring resort Hochgurgl, connected by gondola. There’s certainly enough to explore over the course of a weekend.

The alpine cuisine of course is not to be overlooked and perched on the ridge of the ‘Hohe Mut’ mountain with mesmerising views of the surrounding Ötztaler Alps, the Hohe Mut Alm is a postcard perfect cosy restaurant with a panoramic terrace and a menu that will see you having to roll down the mountain after lunch. With classics like schnitzel and gooey spätzle (cheesy noodles) this is hearty Tyrolean mountain gastronomy at its best. The other reason for our visit was to drop in on alpine artist Adam Attew, whose winter season last year saw him take up as artist in residence at the Hohe Mut Alm, creating one of him unbelievably realistic oil paintings from his live view from the restaurant’s window. Describing the eerie night he spent completely alone on site after the staff had departed and the lifts long stopped, I imagine it was more than worth it to wake up and catch the dawn alone at the top of such a magnificent location.

Attew’s work was exhibited last winter at the Gurgl Carat, a brand new masterpiece of architecture in the centre of the village to be used as an exhibition space and convert venue. Equipped with the latest technology and a 21 metre wide projector, here’s hoping it’s able to fulfil more of its intended use this winter, when the artist’s work will be back in situ from December, as well as exhibiting at Der Wolf in Lech.

It might not be the most pumping resort in the alps for the après, but there’s plenty else in the vicinity to keep yourself busy off the slopes. The nearby Top Mountain Motorcycle Museum, situated at the bottom of the Timmelsjoch High Alpine Road that crosses the mountain to Italy, is home to a mind-boggling collection of over 300 bikes from over 130 international manufacturers. Nearby Sölden boasts the stunning Das Central Hotel and Ice Q restaurant – familiar no doubt to James Bond enthusiasts – where you can even indulge in a Bonde-esque helicopter adventure. A few miles further afield you’ll find the Aqua Dome, a spectacular thermal spa hotel which really needs longer than a weekend to indulge in. Nevertheless, should your time in the region be extended or, God forbid, you find yourself bored by the slopes, there’s plenty to entertain.

Given the season ahead of us, resorts like Obergurgl may well come into their own; I certainly fell in love with its quaint Austrian charm and fantastic beginner slopes. Fingers crossed a full season lies ahead…

Two day adult ski pass from €105 in low season/€118.50 in high season.

Private adult ski lessons with Skischule Obergurgl from €135 for 1.5 hours

We were kind hosted by Ötztal Tourism and Hotel Mühle. Rooms from €100 per night in low season/€128 in high season.

www.obergurgl.com

Austria October 5, 2020

7 Travel Destinations for Couples of Fall 2020

This year has not been kind to tourists. We’ve all had to stay at home and watch the entire global economy shut down. All our travel plans for the summer were postponed until further notice.

But things are opening up now gradually. Some countries are even allowing tourists to enter, but only if they follow the necessary safety guidelines. So, you can now travel without any fear. The only thing you need is to check out the traveling restrictions based on your destination to avoid problems at customs.

However, people are still reluctant to travel with their Mexican girlfriends and Asian mail order brides. We understand the reluctance. You want to get rid of cabin fever with your partner, but you don’t want to put your health at risk.

We believe (and strongly hope) that life will return to normal. So, we have compiled a list of destinations for couples during the fall and others to add to your bucket list. From the beaches of the Caribbean to the hot sand dunes of the Mediterranean, here are the best travel destinations for lovers in 2020.

Austria is a beautiful European country with a rich cultural heritage. The landscape is exquisite with high-rise mountains and lush green plains. But if hiking is not your thing, you can stop at the foot of the mountain for a bite of the aptly named mountain cheese — Bergkase.

You will miss the Salzburg festival since it has been postponed. But don’t sweat it, Salzburg has a lot of beautiful castles, including the Hohensalzburg fortress.

In the evening, men can take their Asian brides out for sausages and obscene amounts of beer.

Italy

If you are touring Europe with your partner, Italy is a compulsory stop. You can just end your trip with this beautiful country because it has everything. The old cities give off vibes of The Godfather. The stone-paved streets remind you of Celentano’s amazing dance moves.

If you want to play it safe, you can visit the usual places — the Tower of Pisa or the Duomo in Milan. But no matter how many times you see the Colosseum, it will never cease to amaze. Visit the best attractions in only one day. Take the Roma Pass and enjoy the beautiful sights that will amaze you.

Spend some time to get a taste of rich Italian pizza and freshly-brewed wine with your spouse. Asian wives also appreciate boat rides across Venice and Sicily — the city that moves in slow motion.

Dominica

If Italy is a bit too mainstream for you, and you prefer a more ‘lowkey’ destination, head down to the Dominican Republic.

Upon arrival, you will be greeted by the tropical fragrance — hot and humid. This beautiful island is blessed by a lot of natural resources. Waterfalls, hot springs, and luxurious beaches are scattered all over the island.

You can even find an Asian bride while chilling on one of the beaches. The people over here are quite friendly, and the food is just exceptional with lots of spice.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Yes, the one and only Vegas.

You can enjoy the various casinos and luxurious lifestyle with your bride. Beyond the Strip, you can also enjoy the large assortment of restaurants serving various delicacies from all over the world.

Morocco

The most popular destinations in Morocco are Marakesh and Casablanca. But Rabat is a less-known yet equally exquisite tourist destination. The city has a huge cultural significance due to its influence in world trade during the Middle Ages.

With your wife, you can enjoy the blend of European, North African, and Middle Eastern culture all in one.

Guatemala

Guatemala is home to remnants of the Mayan civilization. Guatemalans love and appreciate their heritage. You can see traces of the Mayan culture in how they dress and their local cuisine — dominated by plantains and tortillas.

You can visit any of the volcanoes or rural settlements. You can also pack a back and go hiking on one of the mountain trails.

The country is cheap and sparsely-populated, making it the perfect getaway destination for lovers.

Turkey

Istanbul is the intersection of the East and West. And the new refurbished international airport has reestablished the country as the bridge between both worlds.

Turkey is now open to tourists from around the world. So, seize the opportunity to visit some of the museums and art galleries. You can also drop by many of the picturesque mosques and churches.

At night, Istanbul never sleeps. The city is like an extension of Vegas or New York. You can enjoy the amazing nightlife by visiting restaurants and local bars.

Don’t rip up your travel plans just yet; several destinations await you this fall. As things gradually return to normal, start packing your bags and booking hotels. Whether you prefer to backpack around a small country in the tropics or embrace the hustle and bustle of industrial cities, there is something for every couple. Enjoy the best of the fall by traveling with your loved ones.

Austria July 20, 2020

Wake Up Here: An Alpine Reset at Post Lech

As the world starts to open up again, for many of us it’s time to explore our options and also how comfortable we are feeling about travelling. Far-flung destinations may well be taking a back seat for the rest of 2020 but we have our sights set on some closer-to-home destinations. Off-season Lech in Austria is just the reset we need, especially if we get to bed down at the stunning, family-run Post Lech.

In fact, my last international trip was to experience the tail end of ski season in Lech and, if that had been my last chance to travel abroad, I’d have done pretty well for myself. A scenic drive from Innsbruck airport will take you into glamorous ski territory, past picturesque wooden-clad chalets and children who have tamed the slopes more than I ever will. It’s a sight that many non-winter-sports types will have never experienced and that’s a real shame as this region has so much to offer those of us who don’t want to hurl ourselves down mountains.

When spring arrives, the blinding white of the slopes subsides and melts away to reveal the verdant rolling landscapes. Ski trails become hiking routes and you can take the ultimate comfort food Käsespätzle out on the patio to build up your energy to inhale all that fresh air. Summer in the Austrian alps will reaffirm your love of travel and with wide open space to explore and incredible service from hotels and restaurants alike, you can relax into the experience.

We stayed at the cosy-but-glorious Post Lech hotel, which re-opened for Summer 2020 at the end of June. Part of the Relais & Châteaux collection, the hotel is run by the Moosbrugger family and the familial atmosphere extends to the hotel staff and returning guests. While clearly an opulent place to stay, the decor and homely touches make you feel like a guest in a very lucky friend’s place. There may be exquisite locavore courses being served in the twinkling dining room by night but, come morning, the revisiting family’s dog will be snoozing under the breakfast table.

The low-key luxury is evident in the stunning rooms and suites. Each one is unique and exquisitely decorated. There’s no bland high-end interior design here. We are told that a local craftsman comes by one week every year to touch up all the hand-painted details across the rooms. Nothing is more charming than a five-star property that leans into the skills of its area.

Talking about skilled local people, the team that head up the spa are second to none. From an early morning swim in the outdoor heated pool, through to yoga classes and then a sauna, steam and indoor/outdoor relaxation spot, you could spend an entire day unwinding any tension before you’ve met the masters. But you’d be missing out. Working with luxuriously efficient products like the Swiss CellCosmet, the specialists will cocoon you in waterbaths that may induce sleep or serenade you with the most relaxing facial that I’ve ever experienced.

Outside the warm embrace of the Post Lech is a delightful town, just waiting to be discovered. Even without the ski, you can après in bars – from charming to rowdy. We enjoyed sampling neighbouring hotel, the Gotthard‘s, local beer, Omes – named after the nearby mountain – and Austrian wine at the quirky Kristiania Hotel. Then we should probably talk about Hotel Aurelio‘s sun filled terrace, modern art collection and mascot llamas.

Up the mountains, in addition to summertime hikes and views that will take your breath away, is the very special James Turrell SkySpace. Best visited at sunrise or sunset, the visual effect of this artwork is surreal and otherworldly and the surrounding landscape just as awe-inspiring. Lech is an unexpected off-season treat, we urge you to check it out for yourself.

To book your stay at the Post Lech visit postlech.com and find out more things to do in Lech at LechZuers.com . To explore more of the Vorarlberg region, follow @visitvorarlberg.

Austria July 2, 2020

4th July Drinks

There is so much going on this Saturday 4th July, starting with the fact that it’s Independence Day in the USA, plus parts of the UK are re-opening pubs, bars, restaurants, and hotels post-lockdown.

So, if you are thinking of raising a glass this weekend then we have compiled a list of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks for you to enjoy at home.

Independence Day Wines

We couldn’t put a listicle together and not include some wines from the United States of America. Our first wine is from Kendall-Jackson® and the Jackson Estate® in California. Our second wine is from La Crema’s winery, also located in California.

Kendall-Jackson®, Vintner’s Reserve Chardonnay 2017

For over three decades, Kendall-Jackson has remained relentlessly committed to producing only the finest quality wines from grapes grown in California’s cool, coastal vineyards. They carefully match climates and soil types for each grape variety, and then guide each vineyard throughout the entire winemaking process.

The Vintner’s Reserve Chardonnay offers tropical flavours including pineapple, mango and papaya alongside citrus notes, plus vanilla, honey, toasted oak and butter – giving a velvety texture and a creamy flavour.

Priced at £19.95, from winedirect.co.uk

La Crema, Monterey 2017 Pinot Noir

The family-owned and operated winery focuses exclusively on cool-climate appellations. A long valley, both pastoral and austere. On one end, the Monterey Bay is dramatically deep, and unusually cold. On the other, Central California, rich in history and agriculture. Throughout, a brisk, ever-present breeze that rises from the ocean and cools both fields of produce and expansive, rolling vineyards. This is Monterey; rocky, windswept and unrestrained.

La Crema, Monterey Pinot Noir has aromas of black plum, cherry and rhubarb along with hints of earth. The flavours include red plum, raspberry and blood orange, which sit alongside savoury umami and riverstone minerals. This wine is richly textured with a juicy yet balanced acidity and a toasty barrel spice.

Priced at £22.95, from winedirect.co.uk

Alcoholic Drinks

Halo

This exciting new brand Halo Drinks was created by couple Ben Hodges and Christina Kimeze, who through Halo wanted to bring fun to the consumer at home in these challenging times.

There are 9 bottles to choose from, and we are loving Rosé All Day – A playful summery cocktail which packs a punch. Refreshing and balanced, this is our top tipple when the sun is shining. The pre-made cocktail bottle boasts Rosé, Rum, Cointreau, Pomegranate Liqueur, Rhubarb Bitters, and Lemon.

Priced at £29 (50cl), from halo-drinks.co.uk

Non-Alcoholic Drinks

Little Rick, CBD Cans

This high strength CBD drink offers all natural and low calorie/low sugar options in tasty cocktail inspired flavours: Raspberry Coconut, Lime & Mint, and Piña as well seasonal flavours such as limited edition Cola, that will be launching soon.

With no hemp flavour and all natural fruit, Little Rick drinks aim to take the edge off your day so you can enjoy the little things in life. Designed to be relaxing and stress relieving, Little Rick’s customers have celebrated health benefits such as help with pain, sleep, anxiety, and depression. They also make a great mixer or replacement for alcohol.

Priced at £14.49 (for 6), £24.99 (for 12), or £44.99 (for 24), from littlerick.co.uk

DRGN Turmeric Superdrink

DRGN Turmeric Superdrink is a natural energy and wellness drink that is free from caffeine and artificial ingredients, with 60% less sugar than standard soft drinks. DRGN is packed with 15 health- boosting pan-Asian ingredients – ‘superfoods’, vitamins and minerals – blended with Austrian spring water into a refreshing citrus drink that can be enjoyed at any time of the day, at only 53 calories per serve. DRGN is also vegan, gluten free and dairy free.

Priced at £19.99 (for 12), or £36.99 (for 24), from drgndrink.com

Arts June 1, 2020

The Alpine Artist Who’ll Have You Yearning For Ski Season

Now we know we’re only just edging in to summer and the last thing we want to do is wish away the year after the time we’ve been having lately, but given that this year’s ski season was cut short by a good couple of months you’ll surely forgive the snow bunnies among us for already getting excited at the prospect of hitting the slopes come November and packing in as much piste time as we can over next season. While we may not be travelling right now there’s nothing wrong with planning future trips…

One man who’s undoubtedly already counting down the days until the snow starts to fall again is alpine artist Adam Attew, whose dramatic landscapes are so strikingly realistic you’d be forgiven for thinking they’re photographs. While Attew works from his own photography, each painting is painstakingly recreated and his work instantly transports you to a chilly mountaintop. Childhood visits to the Alps every summer and winter throughout childhood ignited a lifelong passion for the mountains and with BASI Alpine Ski and Telemark instructor qualifications under his belt, Adam’s winters are now spent, accompanied by a sketchbook and camera, ski touring throughout the Alps capturing his experiences and translating them to canvas.

This winter saw Attew spend time in Obergurgl in the Austrian Alps where he took up residence for several days painting live at one of the resorts mountaintop restaurants, as well as hosting a solo exhibition of his work at the brand new Gurgl Carat exhibition centre. We caught up with him in between painting and skiing over a Glühwein to find out more about the multi-talented Alpine action man…

What inspired you to first pick up a paintbrush?

It was such a long time ago during my early years of childhood that I don’t remember, though I do have early memories of Christmas presents consisting of special brushes that held paint in the handles, probably to reduce the mess, though I probably make more mess now! How Santa Claus knew I would be an artist, I have no idea. Clever man.

When did you know you had a talent?

I do remember art teachers at school discussing with my parents that I was drawing detailed people with features, bodies and limbs whereas my friends were still drawing the classic ‘round blob person’; I was obviously driven by detail even back then.

What path led you to painting for a living?

Following my dreams. I owned and ran an animation studio in London and Chicago for about 12 years, but as my role had changed and lost its creativity I no longer enjoyed it. So I packed it in and went in search of what I really enjoyed; skiing , mountains and painting mountains is pretty much what I arrived at. I had been painting mountains as a hobby since 2000, having been a ski instructor for several years, and I was writing for the ski and winter section of TheBespokeBlackBook.com. Clearly I was being drawn back to the mountains again and again. Being a driven and not to mention rather stubborn human, it made sense to follow my passion and make it happen.

How long have you been painting professionally?

It’s difficult to say, as it depends on one’s definition of ‘professional’. I had previously worked with Ray Mears creating art for his business and we released some limited edition prints of Arctic Lapland back in the early noughties; I also took on the odd commission piece over the years. However, I would say that I have been painting full time for the last three years.

Do you have a favourite landscape or location you’ve painted?

Although I am known as an Alpine artist, I love any scene if it is covered in snow and the lighting is spectacular. The Alps are of course my spiritual home, but I feel equally at home in the snows of Scandinavia or Canada.

Painting can obviously be a solitary lifestyle. Do you enjoy your own company or do you sometimes struggle with not having others around?

As much as I love spending time with others I also love my own company. I had so much fun meeting all my fellow mountain lovers from around the world at my recent Artist Residency at the Hohe Mut Alm in Obergurgl, but I also love the solitary time spent painting in my studio listening to music, though it is good to break it up now and again with a cuddle with my partner or a coffee with the cat… or was that the other way around?

A lot of people would use painting as an escape or relaxation, what do you do to relax?

This is why I feel like one of the luckiest people, I can still escape and relax whilst painting, unless the painting is going wrong! Outside painting, I find weight training relaxes me and sets me up for the day, generally being in nature is important and of course any pursuit in the mountain can reset the mind and soul. I discovered the ‘Wim Hof method’ cold water immersion many years ago and as a result now find that cold water immersion is important in my daily routine producing a feeling of well-being… nothing like swimming with Endorphins!

How long do you spend in the mountains each winter?

As much time as I can. Obviously this winter things ended with bit of a sudden bump sadly, but I still managed to spend about 30-40 days on snow in the mountains.

Tell us about a typical day…

I’m not sure that I have typical days anymore. In the winter I spend much of my time reviewing ski resorts, hotels and ski equipment all whilst collecting reference material for my painting through photographing and sketching the mountain landscapes. I intend to take part in more artist residencies in the mountains and more ski touring and sleeping at altitude in the future. When not in the mountains, my days are spent mostly painting, working on my social media or writing reviews.

How long does one of your paintings take?

It really depends on the size, but I would say anywhere between 40 and 140 hours.

What advice would you give to someone scared to pick up a paintbrush?

Don’t worry, brushes don’t bite! As a child we have no fear to give it a go, every child paints…so what happens? Do we become self-conscious or worried about what other people might think? Or perhaps we are scared of failing.

Well….who cares what others think? Just give it a go, make a mess and most of all enjoy it and be proud of your accomplishments.

What does 2020 look like for you since ski season ended early?

It really saddens me that so many Alpine resorts, hotels, businesses and pistes fell totally silent! For me though it was a case of getting back to painting and building my portfolio in readiness for next winter season; I am in talks with various ski resorts concerning my next exhibitions and artist residencies, so watch this space for where to see my work in winter 2020/21.

www.adamattew.com

Austria April 7, 2020

How to learn the languages of the places you most want to visit at home

GET TO GRIPS WITH THE LOCAL LINGO FOR A HOLIDAY TO PUERTO RICO

This year sees the 500th year anniversary of Old San Juan, the island’s capital. World Heritage listed Old San Juan as one of the oldest cities in the USA and encapsulates the rich cultural identity of Puerto Rico, interweaving Taino, African and Spanish traditions. This distinctive mix makes San Juan a vibrant city, passionate about music and dance and sensational food.

The city’s must-visit neighbourhoods include the charming Old Town with its pastel-coloured colonial Spanish buildings and blue cobblestone streets, cosmopolitan Condado which is home to fashionable boutiques and high-end restaurants; and cool Santurce, a hipster hangout with its speakeasy cocktail bars and street food markets. Puerto Rico is on everyone’s must visit list. To truly feel like a local and to make the most of your future trip, work on mastering the lingo from the comfort of your own home. Spanish is the most common language spoken on the beautiful island and Duolingo is a great way for beginners to learn from scratch or for intermediates to brush up on their skills. Not only is Duolingo useful when learning a new language, it’s fun and addictive. It takes a game-like approach to learning and offers apps for iOS, Windows Phone, and Android. What’s even better is that Duolingo is completely free for users. Alternatively, if you prefer a more dedicated approach in terms of learning a new language, consider taking private Spanish lessons with Preply.

www.duolingo.com

MASTER THE FRENCH LANGUAGE FOR A WINTER TRIP TO QUÉBEC, CANADA

We can think of nothing better than self-isolating in a cosy, snowy cabin right about now. Hibernation is the order of the day. With so much time on our hands, it’s time start dreaming up a winter escape later in the year to beautiful Québec. With just a seven hour flight time from the UK, an Atlantic crossing has never been closer. From poutine in Montréal, wine and cider tasting in Québec’s southern regions, winter carnivals and snug cottages in snowy landscapes, there is so much to start planning. To get ahead of the game, the BBC are offering online courses to study French, the official language of the Canadian province. Voila!

www.bbc.co.uk/languages/french

LEARN GERMAN TO ORDER STRUDEL PERFECTLY IN VIENNA

2020 marks the 250 anniversary of Ludwig van Beethoven’s birth – and today, Vienna still sets the tone as the European capital of classical music. Although travel is halted at the moment, we can still sit back, wine in hand and listen to all the amazing music created by the world-famous composer on Spotify. The tunes are also the perfect background music for a calming work space, alongside a strong coffee.

Vienna is not a city in a hurry and will be waiting with open arms, just a short plane journey away for culture vultures. The city is the perfect spot to read books, go to the opera, eat endless plates of sacher torte and linger over a hot chocolate. A whole culture has evolved around the coffee houses to encourage a more relaxed way of life. For the price of a cup of coffee visitors can buy entrance to a club where they can spend the day reading newspapers (still hung on wooden rods), people watching, discussing noels or thinking. To get you’re Viennese coffee order perfected or to converse correctly over scrumptious strudel, it’s time to brush up on the German language, the most widely spoken tongue in Austria. Babbel offers an easy and fun way to learn German with some online language learning platforms focusing primarily on just speaking. Here at House of Coco, we are itching to get back to exploring the world. While we wait we are busy planning and prepping for our next adventure.

www.babbel.com

Adventures February 13, 2020

Fall in love this Valentine’s Day with a romantic city break

Ideal for a Valentine’s getaway or for a romantic sojurn anytime of the year, feel the love with our round up of the world’s most luxurious hotels tailored for love.

Round Hill Hotel & Villas, Jamaica

Picture 100 acres of private lush grounds that surround the dazzling waters of Montego Bay. The Round Hill Hotel & Villas is the ideal destination for a sunshine-filled Caribbean break. Deemed as ‘the’ place to visit by the famous and glamorous in the 1950’s, this exclusive and luxrious resort ticks all the style boxes thanks to its 36 oceanfront guestrooms in the Ralph Lauren-designed Pineapple House and its 27 stunning villas.

Spice Island Beach Resort, Grenada

With a chic blend of traditional Caribbean and contemporary style, the Spice Island Beach Resort in Grenada is Grenadian luxury personified. Guests can dine in the open-air gourmet restaurant where they can savour authentic local specialties in a fine dining atmosphere, while enjoying the very best of Grenada’s calypso, reggae and steel bands. It is perfectly positioned on the soft white sands of Grand Anse, Grenada’s most beautiful beach. This luxurious hotel offers superb, spacious accommodation, great spa facilities and excellent service.

Grand Hotel Continental, Tuscany

The only 5-star luxury hotel in the heart of Siena in Tuscany, the Grand Hotel Continental is adorned with original frescoes and rich decorations that can be found throughout the property. The Panoramic Suite is a realm of luxury, privacy and Italian elegance with unrivalled 360° view over Siena and the surrounding valleys. Absolutely bellisimo! Guests can enjoy a delicious meal in the Sapor di Vino restaurant teamed with a carefully-selected bottle of wine.

Jardin des Douars, Essaouira, Morocco

Taking inspiration from the rammed earth Kasbahs of the High Atlas, the Jardin des Douars which is located close to Essaouira sits upon a ridge-top that overlooks the Ksob river. Whilst the look is undoubtedly rustic-chic, there is still a sense of luxury thanks to the spa and the two heated pools.

The hotel looks like a fusion of a genteel country manor fused with a grand castle, lavishly decorated with glowing candles and soft deep pile rugs.

This is ideal for those who are looking for a real retreat and hanker after the peace and tranquillity of the surrounding olive trees and terracotta hills

Grand Hotel Europe, St Petersburg

With a prime location at the cultural heart of St Petersburg, The Grand Hotel Europe is one the city’s most celebrated landmarks. It is opulently decorated with gilded stucco ceilings, breath-taking stained glass, resplendent marble and dazzling chandeliers. The hotel has ten luxurious suites each of which has an individual design. Guests can dine at AZIA offers a daily Emotions Tasting Menu, which combines textures, perfumes, flavours, temperatures and colours to create a unique dining experience.

Hotel President Wilson, Geneva

Situated on the shores of Leman lake and just a few steps from the most beautiful parks and boutiques of the renowned Rue du Rhône, Hotel President Wilson is one of the most contemporary hotels in Geneva, facing the magnificent panorama of the Mont-Blanc.

With large bay-windows offering a panoramic view over Lake Leman, the hotel pool or Geneva city, all 204 Rooms and 22 Suites of the luxury hotel combine comfort and elegance. However, the acclaimed Royal Penthouse Suite is truly a sight to behold thanks to its terrace with panoramic view over the lake and the Mont-Blanc, the jacuzzi, spa, Steinway grand piano, the 103-inch Bang & Olufsen and beautiful furnishings. This truly unique suite stands for pure luxury with maximum security, from bulletproof windows, emergency alarm buttons and reinforced safe to a private lift to take guests directly to their majestic living quarters.

Live an exclusive experience at Spa La Mer and its outdoor pool overlooking the lake and succumb to the delicacy of the Michelin starred cuisine from famous Chef Michel Roth.

St. Regis Vommuli Resort, Maldives

Tucked away, on an exclusive private island reachable by seaplane is the St Regis – one of the most luxurious resort in the Maldives. Combining contemporary design and local craftsmanship, with a profound appreciation for the ecological environment, there is no other destination quite like this exquisite beach resort on Vommuli Island.

Private terraces that lead to pristine beaches and infinity pools with the Indian Ocean as a tranquil backdrop inspire moments of relaxation. The accommodation highlight has to be the Overwater St. Regis Suite – an elegant overwater retreat with stunning views of the Maldives lagoon, overwater hammocks and a romantic gazebo to take in the beauty of the house reef below

Guests can savour epicurean delights from all over the world in any of the six restaurants and bars—each inspired by authentic Italian, Middle Eastern and Asian flavours served in buffet, ala carte or tapas style. They can then restore their well-being with custom-made treatments at the over-water Iridium Spa.

The Palm, Dubai

Located in the heart of the Crescent, The Palm is part luxury hotel, part underwater-themed resort thanks to its two pools, waterpark and small, but perfectly formed man-made beach. Despite sticking rigidly to the underwater theme, guests can reside in opulent suites and can enjoy fine-dining cuisine at one of the 23 restaurants, bars and lounges – Ossiano and Nobu are recommended.

There are five different suites available, but the most striking is the Royal Bridge Suite which includes three lavishly-decorated bedrooms, an exquisitely designed lounge, with decor reflecting the opulence and stature of the suite and is perfect for entertaining and includes its own private library, games and media centre, majlis and massage room.

Hotel Arlberg, Lech

What could be more romantic than a snow-filled break with the one you love? Experience rustic charm at the Hotel Arlberg in the beautiful alpine town of Lech in Austria. The rooms are cosy and are elegantly decorated in traditional Austrian style. From the stunning spa where you can enjoy his and hers treatments to the fabulous wine tasting experience, your inner romantic can’t fail to escape.

Austria January 31, 2020

Lech – a destination for all seasons

Whether you love to ski, hike, bake or even try a spot of mountain top yoga, Lech in Austria is the place to be in 2020. In winter, it’s a ski bunny’s paradise and receives up to twice as much snow as some of its alpine counterparts. Lech is expecting snow in the next few days, so if you are looking for a great ski destination – head to this beautiful city for some snow-filled fun.

Travelling to Lech is a breeze. You can either fly into Innsbruck or Zurich – both of which make for a scenic drive or why not get the train? Langen am Arlberg is just 15 km away from the centre of Lech. There is also a special ski coach that you can take in winter which takes you directly from Zurich to the hotel.

We stayed in the beautiful and charming Hotel Arlberg which is conveniently situated in the heart of this picturesque town. This five-star ski and wellness boutique hotel is a luxury alpine retreat brimming in character and is run by a friendly and professional family team who have previously hosted the likes of Princess Diana.

The décor is luxurious yet eclectic and has subtle nods to its mountain surroundings. Think rustic cool where you will find both objet d’art and stylish accessories sitting side-by-side. The rooms are huge and are elegantly furnished.

We loved spending time in the hotels elegant spa where you can enjoy relaxing massages, rejuvenating facials and more. We highly recommend the Susanne Kaufman facial which will bring your winter weary skin back to life in the space of just one hour.

Wellness is certainly a huge theme in Lech. The town and its inhabitants pride themselves on relaxation and rejuvenation. Locals and tourists are encouraged to take part in holistic activities such as barefoot hiking, sound walking and more.

There is so much to do in Lech and it really is a great destination for skiing. However, if you would prefer to keep your feet firmly on the ground (as opposed to a pair of skis) then Lech won’t disappoint. You can try your hand at some mountain top yoga in the spring, pilates or even a cookery class at the hotel where you can make some delicious local delicacies under the watchful eye of the hotels acclaimed pastry chef.

Wine lovers simply must try the hotel’s wine tasting experience where co-owner Patrick will take you through a superb selection of wines that are certain to impress. If you didn’t love Austrian wine before you arrive in Lech, you will certainly leave Austria with a new passion for the region’s wines.

If you are looking to try a variety of different activities, we recommend that you acquire a ‘My Lech’ card which will give you access to lots of fun things to do in the warmer months in Lech.

From admiring the views from a cable car to taking an e-bike tour where you can navigate your way down the mountain. You can even take a herb hiking tour where you can discover the best that nature has to offer in this pretty town.

Lech is definitely one of the prettiest towns in Austria, so make sure that you add this to your places to stay in 2020 and beyond bucket list.

Book your room – https://arlberghotel.at/en/

Austria May 20, 2019

The 10 Best European Cities For A Summer Weekend Break

Europe is absolutely not short of vibrant cities all waiting to be explored this summer.

But with so many to choose from the choice can often be overwhelming. Here, House of Coco lists our top 10 in the hope of making that decision a little easier…

Madrid, Spain
Often overlooked in favour of Barcelona, Madrid is a fantastic Spanish city. It’s just the right ratio of big enough to occupy yourself for a few days, but small enough to get everything done without rushing. The abundance of Spanish food and drink makes it a great place for foodies to visit, with tasty tapas, Iberico ham and jugs of Sangria you’ll be spoilt for choice. Be sure to visit the famous food market Mercado De San Miguel to sample a bit of everything.

Vienna, Austria
Vienna is jam-packed with museums to cater to all interests, from the Natural History Museum to the Museum of Technology to the Sigmund Freud Museum. Prater Amusement Park in Vienna is the oldest in the world and home to a famous vintage-looking ferris wheel, which will give you unrivalled views of the city if you’re brave enough to take a ride.

Florence, Italy
If pizza and pasta is your thing, then you have to visit Florence. You can indulge in some of the best food of your life in the authentic Italian restaurants hidden down the side streets of the city. As well as being home to some big tourist destinations that are definitely worth visiting (the Duomo of Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Ponte Vecchio and Michelangelo’s David) it’s also a great place for people watching. The many squares of the city are lined with restaurants and cafes that are the perfect place to grab an Aperol Spritz and pass some time.

With many other Tuscan highlights, like Pisa and Lucca, a short drive away you can get loads done in a long weekend!

Budapest, Hungary
Did someone say sparty?! Yes, that is a spa party in Budapest’s most famous outdoor thermal baths. By day Szechenyi Spa & Baths is a lively but relaxing place to soak up the medicinal waters, but come Saturday night the baths become host to the city’s biggest party. Think nightclub, but outside and with lots of water.

On the flip side, the city has plenty to offer for those looking for a quieter time. The Buda Hills allow you to escape from the hustle and bustle and take a hike among the forest.

Zermatt, Switzerland
If you’re not necessarily looking for sun for your summer break, then how about a weekend in the mountains? Try skiing, hiking and biking or just take in the views of the iconic Matterhorn (the mountain that inspires Toblerone). Not to mention all the Swiss cheese you could eat…

Amsterdam, Holland
Though Amsterdam is notorious for two things, “coffee shops” and the Red Light District, there’s actually much more to the city. Big parks are the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely bike ride and the network of canals offer many opportunities to take a boat ride and view the city’s unique architecture.

Stockholm, Sweden
With 40% of the city consisting of green spaces there’s plenty of spots to enjoy some sunshine in Stockholm. These expansive parks are nestled into the city and encourage outdoor living. In the summer you’ll find locals relaxing, socialising, eating, exercising and even working outside.

When you’re done with parks you can explore the Old Town to see amazing architecture, take a boat along the network of canals or tour the city on the hop-on-hop-off bus.

Belfast, Northern Ireland
Belfast is the creative hub of Northern Ireland, full of indie shops and a big live music culture – you’ll never struggle to find a singer or a band to enjoy with a pint of Guinness (other alcoholic beverages are available). The city is a great base point too, as you can drive to all destinations in Northern Ireland within a day and to Dublin in just two hours. The opportunities to explore are endless!

Ljubljana, Slovenia
Ljubljana, one of Europe’s lesser-known cities, has everything you need for a successful weekend break; castles, food markets, museums, bridges and nightlife. The cobbled streets allow you to stroll for hours, gradually ticking off the must-see sights and tasting delicious food. Ljubljana is home to Metelkova, one of Europe’s largest and most successful urban squatting sites. The large expanse was once an army base but is now a neighbourhood in its own right and is the epicentre of music and art within the city.

London, England
Of course, we cannot leave our beloved capital city off the list! London is wonderfully diverse and bursting with life, with the many different areas (Soho, China Town, Camden, etc) offering its own unique vibe. With such good transport links, you could even head further afield during your stay. Visiting Seven Sisters Cliffs, for instance, would be a great day trip from London and offers some calm and relaxation after the hustle and bustle of the city.

We also really know how to make the most of the sunshine and if you’re blessed with warmer weather when you visit you’ll experience the best of London; everyone in a great mood, parks full of people with picnics and bustling rooftop bars.

READ MORE: June In London – What’s On?

Austria May 2, 2019

A foodie tour of Georgia

What is one of the best parts about exploring a new destination? The food of course! The USA has always been one of the most diverse places to enjoy some great dishes. Georgia is certainly one of those places, whilst it is known for its traditional southern cuisine there is myriad of different cuisines to try.

Georgia’s diverse terrain and long-standing culinary traditions makes it the ultimate foodie destination. With typically Southern dishes on offer like Biscuits & Gravy, Fried Okra, Grits and of course the ubiquitous peach pie (Georgia, of course is known as the Peach State) you really will be spoilt for choice!

So, what is so special about Georgia’s foodie scene? ‘Top Chef’ judge Hugh Acheson says: “Georgia is one of the quintessential places of amazing bounty. From coastal shrimp, clams, and fish, to apple orchards in north Georgia, to olive oil production in Lakeland, to peanuts and grits and every vegetable under the sun, we have an agrarian history that we are reclaiming.”

We started our foodie tour in Atlanta at the incredible TWO Urban Licks, a fabulous restaurant on Atlanta’s nationally-acclaimed BeltLine. If you are a fan of hip, industrial chic dining experiences, then the wood-fired cuisine of this critically-acclaimed restaurant is the perfect choice for you. Why not try the empanada, white shrimp or even the bronzed scallops with gouda grits (my favourite dish whilst in Atlanta)

Acclaimed restaurateur and chef, Ford Fry, has opened multiple award-winning establishments in Atlanta, including JCT. Kitchen & Bar. This warm and friendly restaurant on Atlanta’s Westside serves up sophisticated, Southern fare. JCT’s menu is refined comfort food but amplified by Executive Chef Brian Horn’s masterful technique fused with bold and balanced flavours. Dishes to try includes the ‘angry’ mussels (with bacon and serrano chile) shrimp and grits and the North Georgia trout with lacquered pork belly.

The Atlanta locals love to brunch and one our favourite places to brunch in the city has to be Sway at the Hyatt Regency. Executive Chef Thomas McKeown’s menus are a joy at anytime of the day, but their breakfast/brunch offering is something to be admired. Pancakes and waffles and pastries – oh my!

Barbeque food is huge in Atlanta and with fantastic joints like Heirloom Market and Smoke Ring which is in the city’s Castleberry Hill area. Smoke Ring offers a unique twist on typical barbecue fare such as fried green tomatoes, smoked meatloaf and smoked brisket melt.

Not sure what you want to eat? Take a visit to the Ponce City Market’s food hall in midtown Atlanta where you can choose from a bowl of Japanese ramen to Indian street food at the mind-blowing Bottiwalla eatery.

Known as the Classic City and less than 90 minutes from Atlanta is one of my favourite places – Athens. With its friendly small-town feel, historic architecture, eclectic music scene and great shops, Athens is a pretty college town that offers mouth-watering fare from both internationally acclaimed chefs and up-and-coming talents alike.

The Last Resort Grill serves southwestern-inspired southern cuisine in beautiful downtown Athens. They use traditional methods like open fire, grilling, brining, pickling and preserving to create amazing dishes such as six-hour pig, firecracker filet and picancillo & black pepper crusted hangar.

Another great place for foodies is The National which is run by local renowned chefs Peter Dale and Hugh Acheson. With dishes such as stuffed medjool dates, pizette and fish with green calasparra rice, sauté of squash blossoms, you will walk away with a full belly and a smile on your face!

One of my favourite dishes whilst travelling through the state of Georgia was grits – this is a typical Georgian dish that is synonymous with breakfast, lunch and dinner. You can have grits in Georgia prepared any way you’d like, with butter and salt, with melted cheese, or even a Georgia specialty—with shrimp. Some even have theirs with sugar but every person that I met from Georgian told me this was definitely not the right way and the best way had to be something savoury.

If you are planning a road trip throughout the beautiful state of Georgia (and why wouldn’t you?!) there are lots of amazing restaurants and eateries to try along the way. Lanier Islands is a 1,500-acre year-round vacation destination and is one of Georgia’s most popular lake destination thanks to its premier location on the shores of Lake Sidney Lanier – this is where people from the cities come for their holidays. The resort has an array of restaurants to choose from including Sidney’s which features elegant continental fare and Bullfrogs Bar & Grille which is a more casual affair. The resort is known for its fun water-focused activities which are ideal for visitors of all ages.

Approximately 50 miles northeast of Atlanta, is the adorable town of Gainesville – known as both the Queen City of the Mountains and the ‘Hospitality Capital of the World’. One of my favourite restaurants there was Avacado’s – a friendly and fun café and restaurant in the heart of the historic downtown Gainesville Square. Not only is the food terrific, but the restaurant has a cosy and eclectic atmosphere with local musicians playing on the bustling sidewalks. Yes, of course – avocados do feature on the menu!

If you are looking for traditional family-style cooking, then look no further than The Smith House in downtown Dahlonega. Bessie Smith and her family have been serving family-style country cooking since 1922. Think fried chicken, cornbread and lots of traditional iced tea!

The Forrest Hills Resort doesn’t just make a stunning place to stay and relax, thanks to its picturesque location in the foothills of the Georgia mountains. Who wouldn’t want to enjoy a cocktail or two, paired with some traditional Southern cuisine in the most gorgeous surroundings.

Like a quirky a restaurant? Then the Hofer’s Bakery in Helen, Georgia should be on your list. As you enter the town of Helen, you almost feel like you could be in some alpine town in Germany or Austria. Located in the southern Appalachian Mountains, this town is adorably kitsch thanks to its Bavarian style buildings, quaint shops and riverside location. Bigg Daddy’s Restaurant & Tavern is also a great place to visit for a casual night out with lots of beer.

Georgia, you have been an absolute peach of a trip and the food has been an absolute treat – We can’t wait to say ‘Hey y’all’ once again soon!