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Adventures November 24, 2020

All the luxury travel corridor destinations we’re booking in 2021

With quarantine restrictions being likened to a game of whack-a-mole, it certainly seems that long haul travel is out of the picture for most would-be travellers. However, there are plenty of destinations — especially those whose COVID-19 response has shined throughout the crisis — that people can still and should travel to as soon as we are able.

With news of a potential vaccine giving us a needed dose of hope, we’re beating the #BlackNovember blues by pre-planning all our holidays for 2021 to these stunning locales that are still open for tourism.

Coral Reef Club Barbados

With British Airways launching direct flights from London Heathrow to Bridgeton, there is literally no reason in the world you shouldn’t be pre-planning a beachy escape to the Coral Reef Club in Barbados.

This family-run hotel balances familial island warmth with tropical luxury and is undeniably one of the best properties on the island. Check into one of the Coral Reef Club’s 88 rooms and get lost within its 12 acres of garden. You can also relax and take in the calming views of the Caribbean or get stuck into a wide range of sporting activities.

For those looking for a little bit more adventure, there’s plenty of shipwrecks to discover in the West Coast. Keen environmentalists can also volunteer in the Barbados Sea Turtle Project, which is next door to the hotel.

Zannier Hotels Omaanda and Sonop

If you’re planning a trip to Namibia in 2021, why stay in just one incredible Zannier hotel when you can stay in two? The Zannier Hotels in Omaanda and Sonop are made up of just ten luxury huts and ten luxury tents respectively – and offer the ultimate in Namibian luxury.

Zannier Hotels Omaanda is surrounded by savannahs filled with breath-taking wildlife. You can fill your days with game drives or even participate in the Zannier Reserve’s Rhino Rangers volunteer programme, which helps to fight against poaching in Namibia.

At Zannier Hotels Sonop, you can take your holiday to (literal) new heights with a helicopter ride or hot air balloon safari overlooking the dunes. You can also check out the oldest and largest sand dunes on Earth at Sossusvlei, with some dunes rising to 383metres high (which is higher than The Shard!).

Bequia Beach Hotel St Vincent & The Grenadines

The Bequia Beach Hotel is known as the Caribbean’s best kept secret and it’s easy to see why. Bequia is remote island destination is located only on seven square miles of true tropical paradise west of Barbados and South of St. Vincent.

The hotel is nestled within nine acres of stunning tropical gardens on the beautiful Friendship Bay. Next year, the Bequia Beach Hotel welcomes the ultra-luxurious Villa One, which has five generously-sized suites that are perfect for a socially-distanced getaway with the family.

The hotel is also launching a saltwater infinity pool, refreshed menus, and a new wine cellar for 2021 – So how soon can we book again?

Pullman Maldives Maamutaa Resort, Maldives

The Maldives have been added to the UK’s travel corridor list – hurray! And we’re satiating our wanderlust by pre-planning our dream trip to the Pullman Maldives Maamutaa. Pullman Maldives is an all-inclusive paradise set on 18 hectares of tropical forestry and pristine beaches. This January, global wellness coach Sarah Hoey is joining the resort for a wellness residency that will certainly eradicate all of your pent-up pandemic anxieties. Can 2021 come any sooner please?

Kagi, Maldives

Located in the Northern Male Atoll, the Kagi Maldives Spa Island is a newly-opened five-star wellness resort experience. Kagi Maldives was designed by Japanese architect Yuji Yamazaki, who built the resort to surround the 1500 sqm wellness centre. Guests can choose from a Beach Pool Villa, Lagoon Pool Villa or Ocean Pool Villa, but heck, if the resort is this spectacular – it doesn’t matter which villa you decide to stay in. Everything is perfect in paradise after all.

Hotel Fariones, Lanzarote

With the Canary Islands back on the UK’s travel corridor list, we’re looking at the Hotel Fariones for our next Spanish beach break in 2021. This casual laid-back hotel exudes effortless Spanish charm and features a rooftop bar and pool – perfect for watching the sunset.

Jade Mountain, St. Lucia

Overlooking the breathtaking St Lucia’s Pitons World Heritage Site, the Jade Mountain hotel is the ideal spot to get back in touch with nature. This incredible property features 29 open-air Infinity pool and jacuzzi sanctuaries. It even offers a ‘Six in Your Sanctuary’ in-suite Tasting Menu, which is just the thing those looking to social-distance while on holiday. The Six in Your Sanctuary Menu comprises six gourmet dishes with complementary wine pairings and served by a private butler too.

Alphonse Island, Seychelles

We can’t think of a better way to reward ourselves for surviving 2020 than with a trip to the Alphonse Island, Seychelles. Alphonse Island offers a wealth of experiences that celebrate the rich biodiversity and natural surroundings of the Seychelles. From fly fishing and scuba diving, to just spending a day lounging in your sustainable beach bungalow – we think this is Seychelles at its finest – and we can’t wait to visit.

The Peligoni Club, Zakynthos, Greece

With a select-few Greek islands still on the travel corridors list, we’re pre-planning a luxurious villa getaway to The Peligoni Club. This cool and laid-back members only property combines homegrown Greek hospitality with sleek and minimalist luxury villas. Perfect to give you some much-needed calm after what has been a pretty hectic year.

Glenapp Castle, Scotland

If you’re afraid to risk quarantining and want to avoid travel corridors in general, why not book a luxury staycation in the UK? Glenapp Castle is an incredible Relais & Chateaux castle that boasts timeless charm and a rich history. Located on the breath-taking Ayrshire Coast, it is easy to forget about the COVID-19 blues and lose yourself in Glenapp’s extensive grounds. Believe us, nothing is better than taking in the relaxing sea views of the Ailsa Craig and maybe even catching a glimpse of Ireland’s coast on a clear day at Glenapp Castle.

Adventures November 19, 2019

Experience the Authentic Flavours of Mauritius

Mauritius is a melting pot of culture, this beautiful island in the middle of the Indian Ocean is steeped in history and hidden gems. Having been under the rule of the British, French and Dutch as well as being a shipping conduit to India and China you’ll find a plethora of cultural experiences and influences.

One of the best ways to experience the local culture is through the cuisine and at Anantara Resort on the unspoilt, less commercial south side of the island you’ll find Didier Jacob, Executive Chef and foodie. Originally from Mauritius, Didier has a wealth of experience having trained in France under the guidance of Michelin starred chef, Jean Gorge Vongerichten, he’s cooked for heads of state including Donald Trump, partnered with Heston Blumenthal in Barbados and had a stint at Le Caprice. The Anantara Spice Spoons cookery masterclass run by Didier and his equally talented number two, Warren Domah, is an experience not to be missed.

As soon as you meet Didier you catch on to his passion for food, he has this amazing ability to make you look at food differently, he awakens your senses, getting you to experience the smells, the textures and flavours. His cookery classes are open to both hotel guests, locals, aspiring chefs and beginners.

The nation’s French, Creole, Indian and Chinese inhabitants have contributed to a unique culinary culture. Couple that with fresh locally sourced produce and a vibrant, knowledgeable chef and you have an authentic Mauritian cookery experience. The masterclass is around two and a half hours and you learn about ingredients that are synonymous with Mauritian food, as well as the cooking techniques and ethos behind the cuisine. It’s a fantastic way to learn about the culture, taste the local dishes as well as sharpen up your skills.

My lesson starts with some of the basics and one thing I’ve always wanted to do is that chef chop, you know the one where they chop up veggies at an alarming speed? I get a demonstration from Didier and soon pick up the rhythm of the knife and am chopping like a pro until I manage to catch my knuckle and cut myself, epic fail on my part. Apparently, I am scared of the knife and he’s not wrong, I am clumsy in the kitchen and have the scars to prove it. What Didier does brilliantly is build your confidence. A quick plaster and he soon has me chopping again, this time with assurance.

I was tasked with mastering the curry. My cookery station was jam-packed with herbs and spices all of which fill the kitchen with an amazing aroma. Because of the diversity of the island I was shown how to change a basic curry base into either a Thai, Malaysian or Mauritian dish. The pace of the class is just right and as you are taken through each step there’s lots of opportunities to ask questions while listening to anecdotal tales peppered with Didier’s tips and cookery secrets. It’s a relaxed, fun environment and before long you’ll be sprinkling spices and stirring like a natural. Once the masterclass is finished you get to enjoy your dish with a glass of wine and come away with a recipe file so you can cook up a storm at home and recreate your very own taste of Mauritius. Set in a nature reserve and with breath-taking views of the Indian ocean this is the perfect setting to learn to cook.

The Anantara Spice Spoons cookery masterclass can be booked via www.anantara.com

A stay at Anantara Iko Mauritius Resort costs from £335 (390 Euros) per room per night on a half board basis. www.anantara.com

Barbados April 9, 2018

2018 Barbados Travel Guide

#TeamCoco is bonkers about Barbados! Not only does it hold a special place in our Editor, Laura Bartlett’s heart, but 70,000 travellers in 144 countries, also agree that Barbados is the best place in the world for visitor satisfaction (according to a recent Destination Satisfaction Survey). Beating bucket list beauties like Seychelles and Bermuda, Barbados is a must visit, and although we love the spotless white-sand beaches, our Caribbean Reporter, Kered Clement shares her top recommendations on where to stay, where to eat and what to do in Barbados outside of the sandy feet and salt life.

WHERE TO STAY

We’re almost sure that the renewed Waves Spa and Hotel by Elegant Hotels, made its contribution to Barbados ranking highest in the Destination Satisfaction Survey accommodations category. If like us, you’re lucky enough to be greeted by a front desk clerk as lovely as Veronica, your stay along the Platinum West Coast at this all-inclusive spa and hotel is sure to be a pleasant one.

The beige concrete entrance isn’t much to look at, but don’t be quick to judge a book by its cover. A trot down a few steps leads to an appealing assortment of natural textures in palettes inspired by paradise, enhancing its eco, chic beach vibe. The perfect blend of rustic and contemporary furnishing will have you pottering about in the foyer for far too long, but we’d recommend you waste no time taking in the awe-inspiring views, which stimulate a state of well-being. And wellness for the mind, body and soul is positively encouraged when the attentive front desk team talk you through the sunset yoga and meditation offering and complimentary spa treatments depending on your stay and room type.

If you can pull yourself away from the beach tones of your oceanfront room, complete with a hard-to-leave King-sized bed, power shower, fresh tropical fruit, fully-stocked mini bar and inseparable balcony view. You’ll find serenity on the spa-side of the property, with overhanging palms covering an oasis whirlpool, and a pathway leading to peace and tranquillity at The Spa at Waves.

We’ll always remember the mesmerising views and chirping birds that would visit us during breakfast at Seascape Restaurant. But what charmed us most of all, was the distinguished customer service that exceeded expectations and never dropped the bar at any time. Pick Waves Spa and Hotel for excellent service, a fresh, modern setting and a convenient location between Grantly Adams International Airport and Bridgetown, the capital city of Barbados.

Waves Spa and Hotel

WHERE TO EAT

Three coastal themed restaurants along the renowned platinum coast that you must experience!

The Cliff Beach Club

We have The Cliff Owner, Brian Ward and Guadeloupean bred Chef Jérémy Dupire to thank for the birth of this French “brasserie” style experience. No other coupling could have come up with a concept that merges the most exquisite cuisine from France, the Mediterranean and the West Indies, resulting in appetisers like an avocado salad with citrus segments and passion fruit dressing. And with mains like spicy lobster risotto with parmesan, tomato and scotch bonnet pepper, the menu is an explosion of colours and flavours, with a hint of each continent in every dish.

In comparison to The Cliff, a multiple award-winning restaurant, The Cliff Beach Club is laid-back luxury, with no compromise on the million-dollar view, perhaps one of the reasons why one stay at Sandy Lane resulted in relocation for Chef Dupire. Do, The Cliff Beach Club for the attentive staff, snap-worthy views, decor and dishes, the irresistible photo opp with the signature blue van and a Sunday night best described as Ibiza in Barbados.

www.thecliffbeachclub.com

The Tides Restaurant

From the front seat of your car to the seat of our waterfront table, this renowned restaurant on the West Coast of Barbados gives all its guests V.I.P treatment. And much like the high calibre service, the surrounding decor feels like a walkthrough on a hypnotising Hollywood movie set. With so much beautifully thought out themes, particularly the admirable large tree trunks saved during construction, you’ll be drawn to every inch of detail that adds to the overall wow factor.

The Catch of the Day, often Baracuda comes highly recommended by co-owner and Executive Chef Guy Beasly. During the brief wait for dessert, walk it all off in the Tides Art Gallery, featuring captivating artwork by the local, regional and international artist. Co-owner and Managing Director Tammy Beasly, who is mostly responsible for the eloquent decor wanted to deliver a dining experience that is much more than excellent service and decorated plates. This will be evident through your hosts, who’ll be as happy to double up as a photographer while ensuring your every want and need is catered to.

Arrive with room for a 3-course meal so you can clear the plate of every dish by this restaurant team made up of culinary leaders. Our slow braised lamb shank was lapped up as soon as it slid off the bone, and the baked vanilla cheesecake didn’t stand a chance!

www.tidesbarbados.com

The Lone Star

The Lone Star, a 1950’s garage in its former life is the perfect light meal and drinks pitstop, and you can conveniently enjoy a meal for breakfast, lunch and dinner from 8:30 am till 10 pm each day of the week. A popular hub for celebrities, families and the uber-stylish types, you need not worry about this joint being too stuffy as the staff keep the flow of things fun and light-hearted. If like us, you happen to perch at the bar when the bartenders are working on the frequently updated drinks menu, then you’ll be in for a treat of rum punch after punchline leaving you in fits of laughter.

For last day holiday blues, head to The Lone Star for a final dip in the ocean, a tasty treat, the perfect sunset and a robust rum concoction drizzled with lots of laughs.

www.thelonestar.com

WHAT TO DO

Exploring Barbados independently is a great way to stumble upon alluring attractions that appeal to your interest. For a mixture of shopping, leisure and tourist attractions, we recommend renting a car with Coconut Car Rentals and planning out your very own bespoke island experience. With a variety of vehicles to choose from and an efficient drop-off and pick-up service, we were able to map out the perfect day.

Shop a new spring/summer wardrobe at Salt and City boutique in Limegrove Lifestyle Centre. Marvel at the formations at Harrison Cave. Explore the history of one of the oldest Parliaments in the commonwealth, while being enlightened by the modern interactive museum at the National Heroes Gallery and take in the stunning vistas of every scenic opening discovered along your route. What’s more, you can also book Coconut Tours for a guided island adventure with several uniquely curated excursions to choose from.

www.coconutcars.com

Photography by Diana Lewis and Kered Clement