Brazil - House Of Coco Magazine

Brazil November 9, 2023

Success Worldwide : From Getting Lost in Art to Finding Her Creativity With Lisa Fellerson

Lisa Fellerson discovered her talent for fine art back in 4th grade, clearly being a creative was in her blood and it’s no surprise that she has built a successful career on the back of it.

Here, we chat to Lisa to find out more about her creativity, plans for the future and what she likes to do for fun…

Tell us about the journey that lead you to becoming an artist?
At this point in my life I’m just starting to understand it. As a child I remember that I could get lost in making something. I loved it. But I had an interesting, what I consider a Divine intervention that really led me to painting. After my second year in college at age 19, I decided to road trip to Los Angeles with a friend who was moving there. I ended up staying a year before returning to graduate. During this year in L.A., I really discovered how much I loved art, creative people, and the creative process. I just aligned with it and I knew it was my path. When I returned to college I immediately enrolled in the Fine Art program. I painted 8 hours a day and never wanted to leave the studio. I love everything about paintings, from the feel of a brush hitting a canvas, to buying supplies, to setting up the studio, to waiting for the best natural light to enter my studio. I feel even closer to painting to this day.

What do you do when you’re lacking creativity?.
I love this question, because it happens! I take out my photo album journals I’ve created for all my trips, sit on the floor, make a cup of tea and listen to my favorite music while I page through. Surrounding myself with different mediums can really get the creative juices going. Music can instantly help you channel inward. I couldn’t start a painting without it. Lately my mix has been really eclectic. I love Gianluca Grignani from Italy, Vanessa da Mata from Brazil, Wasis Diop from Senegal/Paris, and Jhene Aiko from Los Angeles. I also listen to a lot of Indian sitar and American jazz when I really need to get in the zone. I think all artists need some kind of ritual before beginning their work. Being alone in my studio is a way of creating my own world, and escaping. Many times in my studio I just hang out and not accomplish much. I don’t let this get to me anymore, because the next session in my studio could change everything and an entire new direction could begin to emerge. I’ve learned over the years downtime is part of the creative process and I believe it is essential.

When did you discover that you had a talent for fine art?
In the 4th grade I won a school wide drawing contest, but the year I lived in Los Angeles at age 19 was my real catalyst into art. I started visiting art museums and galleries and would leave with a feeling that made sense to me. I couldn’t wait to channel my inner world through painting. I also love the physicality of it. Painting feels like “home” to me.

What does 2020 look like for the brand?
I would love to exhibit my work more in Europe. It feels like my future. When I was in Paris this past February, I got so excited about the possibility of an exhibition there I could hardly sleep. I love how the French embrace the color pink, a color I love and use often. It would be a dream come true! I want to keep studying art history. Lately I have been really looking at French Romanticism, in particular the work of Theodore Chasseriau. Completely the opposite of my work, but I love the drama of it.

What advice would you offer for any aspiring artists?
Really know yourself and believe in what you do. Life can give many distractions, but forgive yourself when you are not feeling it. That is actually a time for new ideas to emerge. Success may come all at once, and then for a while it seems nothing is happening. This is all part of the process and is ok. Celebrate what you have accomplished, want to accomplish and keep this foremost in your mind. As an artist, it is important to have a solid body of work together that you truly believe in before you begin to market yourself to the art world. You will feel more confident when you are speaking about it. It will show in your eyes and others will then believe in it as well. Surround yourself with supportive and positive people. Stay flexible with opportunities. Things have come along for me I never expected, but I embrace them!

Looking back, is there anything you would do differently?
Yes, I would be less hard on myself and understand creativity is all over the place and can be messy and sometimes frustrating. This is part of it. Eventually you will produce work you will love. I look back at paintings I did in my 20s and see how they were leading me to where I am now with my work. I can now look back with gratitude and a smile.

Our readers love to travel, what destination is at the top of your bucket list?
Ah! This changes by the hour but I would love to go to Mauritius and Viet Nam! I’ve only scratched the surface of Asia and there is so much more I want to see and experience there. I think everyone should visit Paris and Rome.

You’re very well traveled, what’s your most memorable moment and where?
I love this. There are so many I would not want to leave out, but I have to say meeting two of my best friends during my travels, one in Oaxaca, Mexico and the other in Ubud, Bali. I will never forget watching Buddhist monks at sunrise blessing local people along the roads in Sukhothai, Thailand. It was so beautiful to witness. I loved watching surfing in Essaoura, Morocco. I printed and developed my own black and white 35mm film photography at and art school in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. My photos from that time are my treasures. Every moment in Paris and Rome are magical. Ahhh…. I love the world!

As someone who lives in New York, what three things would you suggest to do in the city for a first time visitor?
Visit the Met Museum of Art and Central Park. Friday nights in the summer are the best at the Met.

Take the ferry from Manhattan to Long Island City, Queens at night. You can see Manhattan skyline, Queens, and the Brooklyn Bridge all in one. The city in lights is gorgeous at night!

Stroll around cozy neighborhoods such as SoHo and the East Village during a weekday morning. You’ll get a much more local feel.

Outside of the business, what do you like to do for fun?
I love to go to bookstores for quiet and inspiration. I love Rizzoli Books in the Flatiron district of Manhattan. I love to cook and discover new music and go to the beach as much as possible, any beach! Being around water always relaxes me. I love a good laugh with my friends. I am always researching and dreaming about my next travel.

What does self care mean to you?
Really checking in with myself each day and paying at attention to how I am feeling. Having downtown and getting a good night sleep. When I start to get overwhelmed, I lay on the floor in Shivasana for ten minutes, meditate, and listen to Indian sitar. Making sure that life is not all work. Play and travel are very important to me, and so is a good facial.

Find out more…

www.lisafellerson.com

Instagram @lisafellerson

Artsy.net

1stdibs.com

lisafellerson@gmail.com

Accessories May 28, 2022

Nine fashion brands to know to elevate your summer style

Summer is finally here and Team Coco is filling our wardrobes with bright colours, joyful prints and sustainable swimwear pieces to make the most of the brief albeit glorious British summertime in style.

Our editors have rounded up their favourite summer-ready brands so you can take your summer style to the next level.

Wanderlust Life Jewellery

The new jewellery collection from Wanderlust Life features gorgeous heirloom-inspired pieces that borrow from the past. Inspired by the 1970s, 80s and 90s, Revival is all about a pick ‘n’ mix approach, where the emphasis is on experimentation, unexpected combinations and complete freedom of expression. Like rifling through your mum’s jewellery box or exploring a vintage shop in a foreign city, the eclectic range celebrates the joy of vintage – and we’re all for it!

With textural chains, statement pendants and eye-catching rings and earrings, the pieces are made to be piled on with confidence. The Green Onyx is a key stone for this collection. It appears on heart and porthole shaped pendants as well as the statement Sigaro chunky ring. Wishbone designs, paperclip chains and the Cornicello, horn of plenty inspired pieces have clear vintage references. All pendants are available with a choice of four adjustable chains to style solo, stack up or give your own spin.

Masarà

Masarà is a sustainable swimwear brand offering minimal beachwear styles in a variety of vibrant block-colours.
100% sustainably made in Italy from yarn to tag, Masarà’s pieces are super soft and made from durable ECONYL fabric. All packaging is recyclable and delivered in VELA paper bags. Even the tags are printed on Alga Carta Paper by Favini, which is an innovative ecological paper made from the algae of the Venice Lagoon.

Masarà’s mix and match swimwear staples come in six vibrant colours. You’ll find a bikini top, two styles of bikini bottoms, the Coco and the Brazil Bikini slip, a one piece, beach skirts, tank tops and cute headbands all featured in Pistachio green, Azure Blue, Cappuccino Beige, Paprika Orange, Grape Purple and Blueberry Blue.

Champion

With the weather beginning to warm and planes ready for take-off, there’s one last thing to add to your summer holiday suitcase and that’s a brand new Champion bikini. Featuring tonal colourways and playful prints including bandana and snake print across a selection of bikinis and swimsuits, whether you’re jetting off to the tropics, or just heading to Brighton, there’s swimwear to suit any style from Champion this summer.

Dr. Martens x National Gallery

Punk’s favourite boots meets the National Gallery’s greatest artists in this cool fashion collab. This latest collection is the latest in the Dr. Martens’ artist series launched in partnership with convention-breaking artists such as Basquiat and Keith Haring. It features three artworks painted on Dr. Martens’ Original silhouettes that were inspired by artists that defied convention. The collaboration infuses iconic DM’s silhouettes with art that broke the rules by artists who walked their own path. The shoes feature the work of impressionists Claude Monet and Vincent Can Gogh, along with the post-impressionist George Seurat.

Tucca Swim

Tucca Swim is the British Swimwear brand by sister duo Chloe & Helaina Thomas. Its mew summer collection takes us back to the brand story with the sisters’ love for sustainability, nature and travel.

Sustainability is at the heart of the brand and all swimwear is made Econyl® regenerated nylon. We like Tucca Swim’s signature Multiway Bikini, which is as colourful and flattering as it is versatile. Other pieces include the Multiway Bikini with added frills, Bikini Brief, High Waisted Brief, Swimsuit, Sarongs, Beachwear and Hair Accessories. What we love is Tucca Swim’s inclusive sizing, which comes in UK Sizes 6-16.

Aurum

Goldsmith and designer Guðbjörg once again turns to Iceland’s myths and legends as well as the country’s flora and fauna for the inspiration which shapes her unique designs. Her latest collection was inspired by Iðunn, who In Norse mythology was the goddess of spring, youth, and rejuvenation. The new IÐUNN collection represents both the goddess and spring and is our top choice for summer jewellery.

People Of All Nations

Paying homage to 1980’s Miami beach, we love Peoples Of All Nations new ‘Pink Ice Cream’ style which is perfect for summer. Part of the VICE Collection, this latest drop was inspired by sunset hues of pinks and features casual yet cool dip dye denim pieces.

Cro-Che

Cro-Che is a forward thinking women’s label, based in London. Founder Tacita Brown, believed a fashion brand should begin with how the clothes are made, and the people who make them before anything else is considered. Cro-Che produces clothes which are hand made by extraordinarily talented female artisans in developing countries across the globe. It was important for Tacita that these skilled artisans did not have to leave their homes or their families and children to travel sometimes hundreds of miles to find work in factories based in the cities. Cro-Che aims to empower the incredibly skilled women by employing them to work from home. Conscious, slow and beautiful fashion? Now that’s the kind of brand we can get behind.

Clō Stories

Clō Stories is a SUSTAINABLE Barcelona-based brand launched in June 2017.

Clō is all about nature and sustainability with bathing suit designs adapt to your body enhancing your natural feminine side. Its cute swimwear pieces are reversible you can mix and match them for endless summer looks.

Clō is focused on the slow fashion movement.

All its clothing is designed in our studio in Barcelona and Made in Barcelona. All its clothing is made of fabrics and materials locally and sustainably-sourced and we love that.

Brazil March 29, 2022

A Complete Guide to Buying Your First Leather Handbag

Buying your first high-end designer bag is a massive moment. Handbags make a vital piece of accessories, and they make a bold statement about your fashion choices and lifestyle. This means you have to make the best decision the first time.

Designer leather bags are expensive. To get your money’s worth, you need to know how to select the best and the most important factors to consider before choosing one.

To help you out, here is a guide on how to buy your first leather handbag.

Consider the Type of Leather

Leather handbags are made from Suede Leather, Caviar Leather, Crocodile Skin, or Lambskin. Suede leather is high maintenance and the most expensive of all. When you are ready to spend thousands of dollars on your first leather handbag, you need to ensure that you buy a bag that will last long.

Handbags with poor-quality leather will begin to crack after only a few uses. Get to know the type of leather the handbag is made of and only choose the genuine and finest leather quality.

Although full-grain leather is expensive, you will be sure of getting a genuine leather handbag that will last for a very long time.

The Tanning Process

Tanning is a very vital process for leather. This process changes the chemistry of leather to ensure that the enzymes from fungi and bacteria are completely broken down. Tanning prepares the hides and skins to produce leather products and ensures that the leather has a natural tone and smell.

If leather isn’t tanned, it will rot and be putrefy. Additionally, leather products made from poorly tanned leather don’t last long. Get to know the tanning process used before buying the handbag.

Country of Origin

Italians are known to be the most skilled leather artisans. The quality of leather products, including leather handbags from Italy, is unmatchable. This is mainly because of the quality of hides they use, their dye-making process, and the skilled artisans that make the products.

Other top leather producers include China, India, Brazil, and Russia. Countries like the U.S.A are leading importers of leather materials and products.

Know the Difference Between Faux and Genuine Leather

The difference between imitation and genuine leather products depends on the finishing. To tell the difference, you need to touch or feel the handbag’s surface. If the handbag handles smoothly, it is genuine.

Faux leather feels rough, has marks and other imperfections. Faux leather damages easily and doesn’t last long. Also, it appears brighter and shinier than genuine leather. Watch out for those beautiful bags that get damaged when placed under direct sunlight.

Consider Your Style

Since your handbag will be a massive part of your accessories, you need to ensure you choose one that suits your taste and style. Therefore, consider the color, functionality or use, model, and body type.

Looking for the Right Leather Handbags?

Handbags are functional, but they also define a person’s style and fashion choices. To get the best bag that will last long and suit your taste, consider these tips to help narrow down on options that fit your needs.

Brazil November 30, 2021

3 Ways to Improve Thyroid Health Naturally

Our thyroid health is crucial for the healthy functioning of our bodies, but some people suffer from issues regarding this part of our bodies. If you’re looking for ways to naturally improve your thyroid health, you’re in the right place. We’re going to look at thyroid health in a little more detail and consider how exactly we can improve it naturally.

What is Thyroid Health?

When we talk about thyroid health, we’re talking about the thyroid gland and the hormones that it produces. These hormones affect every cell in your body, so maintaining thyroid health is super important. Specifically, the hormones the thyroid gland produces directly affect your body’s metabolism and the way that it processes and uses energy. Imbalances of these hormones can have significant effects on your body and sense of wellbeing, including how much energy you have, your ability to lose weight and things like bone health.

If your thyroid health is suffering, you don’t necessarily have to visit the doctor right away. There are some natural ways to improve your thyroid health, let’s look at them now.

Take Supplements

First, you can take supplements to boost thyroid function. Supplements like sea moss contain a number of minerals and nutrients that are crucial for maintaining thyroid health. In particular, sea moss’s high levels of iodine are what makes it so good for thyroid health. Having elevated levels of iodine in your body means that your body will be able to create more thyroid hormones, therefore boosting your metabolism and keeping your body healthy.

Another mineral that is good for the thyroid gland is zinc. You can find supplements for this mineral easily, and take it daily to support your thyroid function, as well as many other bodily processes.

Eat Foods that are Good for Thyroid Health

The foods that you eat are vital for maintaining good health because of the nutrients, vitamins and minerals they contain that our bodies need to function properly. If you don’t eat a balanced diet, it’s easy to miss out on important nutrients and end up having a deficiency. This can affect the balance of your body and affect your health negatively.

In terms of thyroid health, there are many foods that you can eat that support the thyroid function in the body. These are sources of minerals like iodine, selenium and zinc, and include:

Nuts (specifically brazil nuts and walnuts)
Red meat
Lentils
Seaweed
Dairy products like yogurt and cheese

Focus on Gut Health

Because minerals like iodine are absorbed into the body through the intestinal tract, it’s really important to keep your gut healthy too when it comes to supporting your thyroid health. In addition, healthy bacteria in the gut are crucial for processing and converting thyroid hormones too. So be sure to incorporate fermented foods and probiotics into your diet too.

These small lifestyle changes can make all the difference when it comes to supporting and improving your thyroid health. If your problems do persist, however, it’s important for you to visit a healthcare professional.

Brazil August 25, 2021

World’s Most Unique Eco-Friendly Buildings

Construction firms like GS Building are being asked more and more to construct buildings which are packed with eco features. There is more pressure on businesses than ever before to take their energy usage more seriously, and in some cases they have targets to meet regarding their green credentials. It is for this reason that those construction firms find themselves building greener structures, and around the world we have seen some stunning examples of this. Leading the way in the field of construction and architecture are these impressive and unique buildings.

One Angel Square – Manchester, England

This building came in at a cost of over $150 million and is one of the most impressive eco-buildings in Europe, if not the world. The building is actually powered using biodiesel and rapeseed oil, which is burned to provide energy to the structure. The building also features an enormous double facade which is able to heat the building in the winter and cool the building down in the summer This is the first building in Great Britain to be rated as outstanding by the Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM).

The Cube – Berlin, Germany

Staying in Europe we have the Cube which has been built in Berlin, an office which has been described as being fit for the 21st Century. The building is littered with green features such as art water flow systems, power saving features and an inward glass design which is topped with solar panels across the building. The Cube actually recycles power and sells it back to the national grid.

Museum of Tomorrow – Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

With its natural air conditioning system, abundance of solar panels and its innovative approach to water usage, Rio’s Museum of Tomorrow is a seriously impressive building. Described by the Guardian as “a captivating invitation to imagine a sustainable world” this museum attracts thousands of visitors each and every day.

Torre Reforma – Mexico City, Mexico

Widely considered as being the greenest building across Latin America, this skyscraper in Mexico City was constructed with eco-consciousness in mind. The building utilizes an array of reusable features which helps it to save over 30% of its annual water consumption. Beyond the energy saving features of the building however, it should be noted that 80% of the materials used to make this building were locally sourced.

Bosco Verticale – Milan, Italy

We have seen many vertical gardens in cities around the world, but nothing compares to what Milan has produced. The Bosco Verticale, which translates as ‘vertical forest’, is covered in over 20,000 shrubs, plants and small trees. These help to offset pollution through the huge amount of oxygen which they are able to produce. Additionally the plants help to insulate the building and beyond everything else, it looks absolutely stunning, which is important in a city like Milan.

Each year we are seeing new designs and buildings popping up around the world, and we can’t wait to see what comes next for eco-architecture.

Rowland+Broughton is an excellent firm for sustainable architecture who actively test and create designs that not only satisfy clients but are focused on conserving the environment.

Brazil May 29, 2021

WanderSups with Hannah Gregory: Brazilian Shrimp Bobo

Brazilian Shrimp Bobo.

Spotify Playlist – WanderSups Tropical Vibes

Serves 4

Shrimp bobo hails from the Bahian state of Brazil, north of the more well known cities of Rio De Janeiro and São Paulo. A creamy fish stew, sometimes likened to a bouillabaisse and nearly identical to the West African dish Ipete. The Bahia region is known for its Afro Brazilian characteristics – a warm, vibrant culture, steeped in history both painful and joyous; and rich in food, music and colour.

During a trip to Brazil that took in many Lapa street parties, many caipirinhas on the beach and all the other fun decadence that the country throws at you, I was in need of respite. I hopped on a boat, hangover in hand and headed for Ilha Grande – an island just off the coast of Rio De Janeiro that can only be described as paradise. Planning to be there for a long weekend, we ended up staying for three weeks. Whilst my friend hiked trails, went surfing, got up for early morning jogs to reset her soul after our Rio experience, I chose the more sensible option, I worked my way through every single white sand beach, complete with Caiprinha – I wasn’t that broken. And with every white sand beach, some of the best seafood I’ve ever eaten.

Brazil is often synonymous with churrascaria (Brazilian bbq) and rightly so, I am yet to taste a cow as good as that of South American soil. But party after party, feasts of feijoada and skewers of prime beef, lunches of rices and beans (I could only afford one protein-heavy meal a day), I needed fish. I needed something light and nourishing, something I would be confident would allow me to get back in the 30c heat without fear of sinking during my hourly cooling off dip.

And so it was, on one afternoon, wandering through the streets* of the island, hunting for my next catch, I was beckoned to sit down at a wooden-fronted restaurant. Taking my seat on the customary plastic chair, complete with plastic table, feet in the sand, I explained to the waiter my plight. I needed something light, no meat, no beans – something from the sea. What would he suggest? He spoke to me about this wonderful dish that hails from his native region, the name alone made me laugh – Bobo – which to this day I can’t say without a cartoon voice. Plump prawns fresh from the sea in a creamy sauce made from coconuts and cassava from the island, I was in. Bring me the shrimp! And so it came, served in a huge coconut shell, with a side of rice (not needed but consumed anyway – love a carb). I have been trying to recreate this recipe for years, never quite landing it but after many, many, maaaaany attempts and a lot of research into some very specific ingredients I’ve bloody done it. This dish will transport you to a tropical island, trust. Ok you might be missing the sun and the sand but it is good. I promise you it’s good.

*Sandy paths flanked with beach bars, wooden huts serving catches of the day and oddly long stray dogs everywhere – apparently a very fertile sausage dog made the island his home and now all the strays have a certain length to them.

What you need :

5 white onions
750g plum tomatoes
1 green pepper
1 bunch coriander
500g cassava (you can also use yams or manioc root. These are available in most exotic food shops)
250ml EV Olive oil
750ml coconut milk (cooking variety rather than drinking variety)
500g of the largest prawns you can find, shelled, from sustainable sources.
1 clove of garlic
1 tbsp dende oil* (this is an online job but is vital to the dish to give it it’s distinctive colouring and flavour)
Salt

*Organic raw cold pressed red palm oil (dende oil) is a sustainably farmed oil from small producers in central America. It is not to be confused with the processed palm kernel oil that is responsible for mass deforestation. The health benefits of this product are huge and it is rapidly becoming as popular as coconut oil. You only need a tiny bit for this recipe but you can use it as you would any other cooking oil and reap the benefits.

How you do it :

Peel and chop the cassava, then boil in water till soft (as you would potatoes). When tender drain and mash.
Whilst the cassava is cooking, chop two of the onions and the green pepper. Deseed and chop 500g of the plum tomatoes.
Chop half the coriander.
Put the cassava, onions, pepper, tomatoes and coriander in a heavy based saucepan. When they start to sizzle, add in the olive oil and 500ml of coconut milk. Stir constantly for about ten minutes until the mixture thickens and it starts to pull away from the base of the pan.
Take off the heat and set aside.
Chop the remaining onions and tomatoes and mince the garlic.
In a separate saucepan, heat a glug of oil and fry the garlic, onions and tomatoes until softened.
Throw in the prawns, remaining coriander and a large pinch of salt.
Keep stirring over a high heat until the prawns begin to take on some colour.
Add in the remaining coconut milk and stir continuously for five minutes.
Add the cassava mix and stir till combined, turn the heat down and allow to simmer for a further five minutes.
Just before taking off the heat, add in the dende oil and stir till combined and the bobo takes on a red colour.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

Barbados April 23, 2021

Puerto Rico, the best kept secret in the Caribbean

There’s no secret that we love the Caribbean here at House of Coco magazine, it holds a special place in our heart. From Barbados to Nevis, we’ve explored most of the islands and Puerto Rico was a place that we fell in love with instantly. Puerto Rico is packed with hidden gems – music fills San Juan’s streets, rare endemic species await discovery in the El Yunque rainforest, thrill seekers can enjoy epic adventures surfing and ziplining, and luxury hotels line the stunning beach fronts. As an archipelago, Puerto Rico also offers a plethora of island escapes offshore for guests to visit tropical beaches and wildlife wonders. Below are the top experiences that make Puerto Rico the best kept secret in the Caribbean and highlight why it’s the ultimate Island destination to visit in 2021…

Adventure in El Yunque rainforest

Located on the east side of Puerto Rico, El Yunque is the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest Service and is a rugged heart of adventure in Puerto Rico. The abundant natural area is extremely biodiverse with 240 species of lush trees and bushes, along with bountiful waterfalls, rivers, creeks, and streams. A multitude of hiking routes guide adventurers through the rainforest, with dips in cooling natural pools along the way. El Angelito is a popular action-packed route, with a 4km hike that rewards visitors with a lagoon rope-swing at the end. Ziplining amongst the green canopies and chirpy parrots is also highly recommended for nature loving, thrill seekers!

Blissful beaches to suit any taste

With nearly 300 beaches and 270 miles of Caribbean coastline, sunseekers are spoilt for choice in Puerto Rico. A world-renowned beach heralded as one of the best in the Caribbean, Flamenco Beach on Culebra Island extends for a mile and is framed by dramatic hills and tropical palm trees, with peaceful turquoise waters ideal for snorkelling. Domes Beach, on the northwest tip of Puerto Rico, is a surfer’s paradise and welcomes a number of international surf competitions throughout the year. Famed for its waves, Domes Beach offers thrilling surfs in winter when waves are at their biggest. For sheer beauty, Mar Chiquita, which translates to Little Sea, is unquestionably unmissable. The awe-inspiring spot is a natural pool with azure waters and intimate beach, protected from the Atlantic sea by two limestone outcroppings. A firm favourite on the Island, Mar Chiquita is an Instagrammer’s paradise.

A Caribbean hotbed of culture, art and history in San Juan

Puerto Rico’s charming capital, San Juan, is one of the Caribbean’s most exciting and historic cities, celebrating its 500th anniversary this year. Few landmarks represent Puerto Rico’s legacy within the Caribbean and the Americas quite as well as El Morro, an epic fortress built in 1533, that transports visitors back in time. Seamlessly balancing the old with the new, San Juan’s Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Puerto Rico, is one of the largest art institutions in the Caribbean, housing contemporary art from Caribbean and Latin American and is a must-visit for culture vultures. Music lovers will also be drawn to the capital, where the streets come alive to the sounds of bomba, reggaeton, salsa, merengue, and Latin pop. La Placita is a local hotspot for dancing and socialising, with bars and restaurants that spill into a lively main square, creating a melting pot of live music beats.

Wildlife in abundance in Guanica Dry Forest and El Yunque

Although small in size, Puerto Rico’s wildlife offering is anything but! The tropical climate makes it a hive of activity for endemic birds, singing frogs and rare reptiles. In the remote Guanica Dry Forest, near-extinct plants thrive in the forest’s dry conditions and attract over 130 different species of birds. Nine of Puerto Rico’s endemic bird species can be found here, including the prehistoric Puerto Rican nightjar. With as little as 1,500 in existence, to spot a nightjar is the ultimate twitchers prize. The El Yunque rainforest is another wildlife hotspot, welcoming hundreds of species who prefer wetter environments. Thirteen different species of coquí frog, the characteristically vocal tree frog, can be seen clambering up trees or taking shelter on the forest floor, whilst fascinating reptiles such as worm lizards, skinks and galliwasps dart across the jungle.

Golf courses galore

Home to several award-winning courses each set against a stunning backdrop, Puerto Rico is the perfect place for golf aficionados. Golfers can take their pick from just shy of 30 golf courses across the Island including greens with cliffside ocean views on the west coast, or bunkers with the backdrop of El Yunque rainforest at the Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve’s Championship Course. Coco Beach, where the 2019 PGA TOUR Puerto Rico Open was hosted, is also an Island hotspot, and Bahia Beach Resort’s 18-hole fairway is renowned for its perfectly nuanced layout designed by expert architect Robert Trent Jones Jr. The variety of courses on offer cater to every type of player, from novice to pros, and a range of prince points. Combined with expert design and unparalleled picturesque views, it’s no surprise the Island is known as the golf capital of the Caribbean.

Luxury Caribbean coastal escapes

To unwind after a day on the golf course, travellers can head back to one of the island’s sumptuous hotels and relax in laidback luxury. Isla Verde is Puerto Rico’s premier beach destination, and with close proximity to the heart of San Juan and crystal clear Caribbean sea views, the palm tree lined haven is home to many luxury hotel hideaways. In particular, the Ritz-Carlton San Juan is one of the most incomparable luxury resorts on the Island. The hotel boasts a two-mile stretch of golden sand, pools aplenty, exquisite dining options and a soothing spa. Also in San Juan, the Caribe Hilton is another iconic hotel, famously known as the home of the Piña Colada, Puerto Rico’s national drink. In 1954 the hotel’s barman, Ramón ‘Monchito’ Marrero, created the cocktail to capture the essence of the Island in a glass, and the original recipe is still served at the property today.

Island hop to discover hidden gems

When most people think of Puerto Rico, they think of a singular tropical island. However, Puerto Rico is actually an archipelago, made up of many islands, cays and islets. While there is no shortage of adventure and discovery to be had on the eponymously named Island of Puerto Rico, by island hopping offshore, visitors will enjoy some of the country’s incredible hidden gems. Vieques is the peaceful, unexplored island, where wild horses roam and the world’s brightest bioluminescent bay can be found. Mosquito Bay’s neon blue waters glow in the dark as millions of microorganisms, called dinoflagellates, light up at night when motion is detected. Heading out on a glass-bottomed kayak once the sun has set is the best way to experience the natural phenomena. Alternatively, Culebra Island is surrounded by barrier reefs, and the exquisite Carlos Rosario and Tamarindo beaches are an idyll for swimmers and snorkelers.

Sustainable initiatives and cultural immersion for all

With such a diverse landscape, it’s only natural that Puerto Rican locals take care of the destination’s delicate ecosystems, which visitors can support through local sustainable initiatives whilst on their trip. In San Juan, where beaches nestle against a vibrant cityscape, travellers can help protect the habitats of endangered sea turtles by working to repair and preserve natural nesting areas on the city’s beaches. Of course, Puerto Rico’s local communities are also at the heart of the destination, and Loíza, a town just 20 minutes from San Juan, is a historic hub of Afro-Puerto Rican culture. Since Loíza is the birthplace of bomba, visitors can join locally-led dance workshops that not only provide fascinating insights into the area’s rich history, but provide locals with the income needed to preserve and protect the town’s cultural identity.

For more information, visit www.DiscoverPuertoRico.com

For more information on visiting Puerto Rico go to DiscoverPuertoRico.com or follow Discover Puerto Rico’s social channels on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook

Photos : DiscoverPuertoRico

Brazil March 29, 2021

Healthy Food and Drink News

It’s that time of year when we start to look at what we eat and make some changes in time for summer, so how about swapping some of your regular food and drink choices for a slightly healthier variety? Still mega on flavour, just not as mega on the sugar or fat content!

Food

Love Yourself Balanced Meals, from £15 per day, via Love Yourself

At Love Yourself, they create healthy tasty menus using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients prepared with you in mind and cooked fresh every day. Their vision is to provide healthy foods to help you live a happy life. Choose a meal box (such as Balanced, Vegetarian, gluten free or any one of 14 different ranges to cater for different dietary arrangements), let the talented team of chefs at Love Yourself prepare, cook, and pack your meal box and wait for your doorbell to ring.

Merchant Gourmet Spicy Cajun-Style Lentils & Red Kidney Beans, £2 (per pouch), from Waitrose and Ocado

Combining the flavours of the deep south of America with a mix of Merchant Gourmet’s much-loved Puy and green lentils, the new edition gives a spicy and exotic taste. From soft red kidney beans cooked slowly in a rich tomato sauce, to warming jalapeno and paprika seasoning, the Cajun-Style lentils offer a taste sensation with every bite.

Nairn’s Dark Chocolate & Mint Chunky Oat Biscuit Breaks, £1.85 (165g box), from Waitrose

At 35% – 40% less sugar than the average gluten free biscuit, these chunky oat chocolate and mint biscuits breaks are fantastic if you’re trying to cut back on your sugar intake. Each box has four packets of three biscuits inside, so you can eat a packet without feeling guilty! All vegetarian friendly and of course gluten free.

Drink

Mawé Sparkling Water Energy Drink, £6.99 (4 x 330ml cans), from Mawé

Enhanced with essential B vitamins, this low-sugar energy drink provides the perfect lift when juggling work and life. Mawé uses guarana fruit from Brazil, fresh pear, and apple to create light, lifting refreshment. Mawé is caffeine-free, vegan and contains no artificial flavours or preservatives. Made with real fruit juice and sparkling English spring water, this low-calorie drink contains less than half the sugar content of its competitors.

Coffee-Direct Coffee Tonic, Hondu Espresso from Coffee-Direct, £10.99 (227g), from Coffee-Direct.co.uk

Calling all Frappuccino fans! Coffee Tonic is set to take over your summer. The unusual blend is constructed with just Hondu Espresso Coffee and tonic water. If you are a fan of tonic with your alcohol, you will love this refreshing concept. The quinine in the tonic complements the acidity of the coffee, making for a smooth and bubbly finish. Just pick up your favourite tonic and some Hondu coffee and you’re good to go!

Tanqueray 0% Alcohol Free Spirit, £16 (70cl bottle), from Sainsbury’s

Crafted from the same distilled botanicals as London Dry, Tanqueray 0.0% offers an alcohol free option that perfectly captures the unmistakable spirit of Tanqueray. With consumers increasingly looking for choice within their lifestyles, Tanqueray 0.0% offers individuals a delicious alcohol free alternative for those not willing to compromise on taste.

Gratien & Meyer Festillant Sans Alcool, £4.50 (per bottle), from The Wine Society

If fizz must be de-alcoholised, it’s reassuring to know that it started life in the expert hands of Gratien & Meyer, makers of The Wine Society’s best sparklers. The fruit is from Gascony, there is just one fermentation, in the bottle, and the alcohol is eliminated by a process of vacuum distillation. Serve well chilled on its own, or complement its lemony, appley notes with a dash of fruit cordial.

Mikkeller Drink in the Sun Alcohol Free Pale Ale, £2.50 (per 33cl bottle), from The Wine Society

Light gold in colour, with vibrant citrus and tropical fruit on the nose, a satisfying texture on the palate and a hoppy, lively character through to the finish. It’s just a bonus that at 0.3% it is about as alcoholic as fresh orange juice!

For more Food and Drink News from House of Coco Magazine

Brazil March 29, 2021

WanderSups Feijoada – aka Brazilian pork & black bean stew without all the gubbins

Feijoada – the national dish of Brazil. As I understand, often eaten on Sundays as us old Brits would do a roast. A comforting stew of black beans, warming spices and all the piggy bits.

There is something truly magical about Brazil. A melting pot of cultures, and in the city’s cafes and restaurants there’s a real mix of traditional cuisines and western influences. True to form, I ate everything I possibly could whilst there but I always kept coming back to this one dish.

During my time in Brazil, where I was living off pennies, this was one of the most comforting and cheapest dishes found on menus from restaurants to cafes to beach shacks across the country. Now this sounds like real first world problems, especially in current climes, but travelling is exhausting. I don’t mean that in a negative way. Heck, get me on a plane tomorrow PURLEASE! But days of long bus rides, getting lost, missing connections, lugging backpacks, being called a gringo, getting bitten and stung by everything out there and lets not even mention the chub rub – sometimes you just yearn for a comforting meal. The smell of this stew and the toasted cassava flour – farofa – that adorns it was as welcoming to me as my Mum’s roast chicken. Studded with malgueta chillis that are so hot they make you cry but also strangely addictive, this is one of my all time favourite meals. It is one of those dishes that has the magic of sheer transportation. Close your eyes, put your face in front of the radiator and you are in Brazil. HOWEVER. Traditionally this is made with all the pig bits – snouts and tails and ears and trotters and more often than not, a tongue for good measure. Whilst I appreciate the need to eat nose to tail and that minimising food waste is an absolute must, I just can’t physically deal with it myself. I’m sorry. Call me a fake, call me a phony. I know my Gran will be reading this and tutting in dismay but I just can’t handle the toes and tongues of the swine. Because of this I dismissed this dish as something I couldn’t cook and filed it in the “things I eat when I’m there and will never recreate” folder. Until recently. The craving – probably stemming from the distinct lack of travel – got too much and I decided enough was enough. I would get all the piggy bits that didn’t make me squirm and give it a jolly good go. And you know what? It was frickin delish. So much so, it featured on my recent take away menu and the crowd went wild. And so here it is for you guys – porky, beany, comfort in a bowl.

WanderSups Feijoada – aka Brazilian pork & black bean stew without all the gubbins

Serves 4-6

Spotify playlist – WanderSups Sups

Tipple of choice – Malbec

What you need :

For the stew –

25g good quality lard (you can use supermarket bought in a pinch but see if you can get the high grade stuff from your butchers – it’s totally worth it)
1kg skinless, boneless shoulder of pork cut into chunks
500g pork belly cut into chunks
200g smoked ham hock
200g cooking chorizo diced
150g lardons
1 onion chopped
3 cloves of garlic chopped
450g black beans soaked (check the packet instructions but I always soak mine in cold water overnight – you need to make sure there is a good inch of water sitting above the beans as they swell and make sure you keep the water after you drain them as it’s a key part of the dish)
2tsp dried epazote or oregano
1tsp salt
A good amount of black peps
A good whack of dried chilli flakes
2 fresh bay leaves
2tbsp red wine vinegar
1tsp dried thyme
1tsp smoked paprika
1tsp ground cumin
Rice to serve
Malgueta chillis to serve (available online and highly recommended)

For the farofa –

150g lardons
2tbsp butter
1 small onion finely chopped
2 cloves of garlic crushed
1 cup of cassava flour – available online or at Far Away Food for the Bury residents
Salt & peps

How you do it :

Heat the lard in a large casserole dish and brown the pork shoulder and belly. Do this in batches so it doesn’t get crowded and stew itself. Remove the pork and set aside.
Repeat the process with the lardons and chorizo.
Remove the lardons and chorizo and then cook the onions and garlic in the same pan until softened.
Add the black beans, herbs, spices, bay and vinegar.
Add the meat back to the pan and give everything a good stir.
Pour in the bean water and top up with cold water to bring the liquid just above the meat.
Bring to the boil then reduce to a simmer for 2-3 hours until the meat is falling apart and the stew is thickened.
Scum may rise to the top – if it does, just skim off with a spoon.
Whilst the stew is doing its thing, crack on with the farofa.
Fry the lardons in a cold pan. When the fat begins to render, add the butter.
Add the onions and saute till translucent.
Add the garlic and fry till golden.
Add in the flour and season. Keep moving it around the pan so it toasts without burning. You will know when it is done when it takes on a golden colour and smells nutty.
Serve the stew with rice, topped with farofa and a few of the chillis.

Brazil March 2, 2021

Think outside the (TV) box: a series of tours inspired by Netflix

Here at House of Coco we’re not shy to admit that we’ve spent more time watching Netflix than we care to admit. It’s almost been a year since Tiger King became a lockdown sensation and since then we’ve been getting Down to Earth with Zac Efron in South America, seeking multi-million-dollar dream homes in Selling Sunset and falling in love with ‘the ton’s’ most eligible members of the elite in Bridgerton, which has become the most watched series on Netflix to date.

From Paris to Peru, we have rounded up a series of tours to inspire your next adventure, based on Netflix favourites from around the globe.

BRIDGERTON: PROMENADE THROUGH BATH’S BEAUTIFUL AND HISTORIC STREETS

Bridgerton is a period drama like no other. Watch as the powerful Bridgerton family navigates through love, marriage and scandal. This season, much of the filming took place in Bath, where ToursByLocals guide Cheryl can take visitors on a stroll around the beautiful city which was one of the most fashionable places to be seen in the 18thcentury. The city of Bath is designated with UNESCO World Heritage Site status and is famous for the Roman Baths built around hot springs, the awe-inspiring architecture of the Royal Crescent and its spectacular Abbey. Indulge in historical gossip and find out about the local stories of time gone by, full of salacious scandal and secrecy.

ToursByLocals (www.toursbylocals.com) offers a private Bath City Walking Tour from £125 per tour, for up to ten people. The two-hour fully customisable tour includes a leisurely jaunt around Bath taking in the highlights with a local Blue Badge tour guide, with the option to extend to visit a museum.

DOWN TO EARTH WITH ZAC EFRON: EXPLORE THE ICA DESERT AND SAND DUNES IN PERU

Ever dreamed of travelling the world with Zac Efron? Of course you have. The eight-part series follows his travels highlighting stunning natural scenery, sustainable living and green energy. Combine an adrenaline rush with the majestic beauty of the Ica desert on an epic adventure with ToursByLocals. Try your hand at sandboarding, just like Zac when he visited Peru; after an action-packed day, watch the sunset as it dips below the dunes.

Local guide, Karina was born and raised in Nazca on the southern coast of Peru and also hosts the Nazca Lines Flight Tour, which takes in thirteen of the mysterious ancient geoglyphs, featuring the hummingbird and the astronaut.

ToursByLocals (www.toursbylocals.com) offers a Dune Buggy Ride & Sandboarding tour at the Huacachina Oasis from £140 per tour, for up to three people. The two-hour private tour includes guiding services from a local expert guide and admission tickets.

TOO HOT TO HANDLE: ESCAPE TO PARADISE IN MEXICO

Netfix’s megahit dating show, Too Hot To Handle was filmed in dreamy Riviera Nayarit, on Mexico’s Pacific coast. With a coastline framed by the majestic Sierra Madre Mountains, lush white beaches, and sparkling blue seas, Riviera Nayarit offers luxury, natural scenery, and privacy. This paradise has become the inspiration for many holiday-starved viewers stuck at home during lockdown. The stunning beach house in Too Hot to Handle is in Punta Mita, one of the most sophisticated and exclusive areas of Riviera Nayarit.

Nestled within a 1,500-acre private peninsula, Punta Mita is the type of place where heavenly dreams of idyllic tropical getaways turn to reality. The gated, ultra-luxurious location is home to multimillion-dollar villas, two Jack Nicklaus Signature golf courses, and top shelf luxury hotel brands, such as St. Regis Punta Mita Resort and Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita. The luxury continues as the destination is home to some of the best Mexican restaurants in Rivera Nayarit and beautiful boutique hotels tucked away among the trees. The destination offers a combination of tranquil bays for swimming, as well as hundreds of acres of protected tropical forest for exploring. For more information, visit: www.RivieraNayarit.com

SELLING SUNSET: LIVE THE A-LIST LIFE IN LA AND PERUSE BEVERLY HILLS REAL ESTATE

Welcome to the Oppenheim Group. The stylish and feisty squad of real estate brokers are on a mission to sell multi-million-dollar dream homes to the rich and famous of Los Angeles. Take a VIP trip to the Hollywood Hills with ToursByLocals guide Lawrence and get the inside scoop on Hollywood movie stars, how they live and what secrets they keep behind their star-studded gates. Cruise down Rodeo Drive and check out the Sunset Strip and imagine yourself transporting your life to the mecca of all things glam – it is La La Land after all.

ToursByLocals (www.toursbylocals.com) offers The Hollywood Movie Star Homes, Beverly Hills and Rodeo Drive Private Tour from £408 per tour, for up to five people. The four-hour tour includes transportation in a luxury SUV rental and expert guiding services.

THE QUEEN’S GAMBIT: EXPERIENCE THE CULTURE AND HISTORY OF BERLIN

Set in Kentucky and filmed in Berlin, the ever-popular story follows the life of Beth Harman, a young chess prodigy from lowly beginnings. The orphanage where Beth grew up was filmed at the Schloss-Schulzendorf, which was built in 1889 and stands on the outskirts of Berlin. Explore the cultural heritage of Germany’s capital and visit the fantastic museums on Berlin’s so-called Museum Island, which reflects new ideas in philosophy, science and politics.

ToursByLocals (www.toursbylocals.com) offers a Berlin Art and Culture Tour with an Art Historian from £251 per tour, for up to two people. The three-hour town is fully customisable. Local guide and historian Hilke has been working as a certified Berlin guide for over 30 years and studied in Berlin, Rome, Paris and Washington.

EMILY IN PARIS: ENJOY ALL THINGS CHIC IN THE CITY OF LIGHT

While following in the footsteps of a cheerful American marketing exec who lands a job with a French agency, each episode of Emily in Paristakes viewers on a tour around the glamourous French capital. Nominated for a Golden Globe, the series takes in breathtaking views over the Seine and world-renowned locations that reaffirm the popular belief that Paris is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. From walking across the iconic Pont Alexandre III bridge to high-end dining in Le Café de L’Homme, a contemporary Parisian brasserie known for its unobstructed views of the Eiffel Tower, the series’ fans will be able to recognise plenty of the city’s landmarks to create an Emily-inspired recreation on their own.

For the most glamourous experience, which doesn’t break the bank, Bidroom, the membership-based travel club for travel lovers, offers better hotel deals than anywhere else, along with in-hotel perks such a complimentary room upgrades, arrival drinks, late check-out, and free WIFI as standard. Become a member for free and enjoy discounts on other travel services such as car hire, insurance, tours and luggage storage, or upgrade for £29 per year to unlock even more hotel deals, bigger discounts of up to 40% on travel extras and share your membership benefits with friends.

Conveniently located within a short walk from the Notre Dame Cathedral, the four-star Hotel La Lanterne is a perfect example of Parisian chic. Bidroom (bidroom.com) offers a three-night stay at this independent boutique hotel priced from £606 per couple, including spa access in addition to a range of Bidroom’s membership perks.

THE LAST KINGDOM: WALK THROUGH FAMOUS ANGLO-SAXON BATTLEGROUNDS

The year is 872 and many of the separate kingdoms of what we now know as England have fallen to the invading Danes, leaving the great kingdom of Wessex standing alone. The Last Kingdom portrays the conflict between the Danes and the Saxons as they battle it out, with swoon-worthy Uhtred of Bebbanburg at the helm. With the Danes eager to take more land and the Saxons fighting to hold the ground they have and repel the ‘marauding heathens’ from England, viewers have been on the edge of their seats this lockdown.

Discover famous Anglo-Saxon sites and frequent Viking/Saxon battlegrounds with Headwater’s six-night North East Wales Heritage Trail self-guided holiday. This trip takes travellers along various sections of Offa’s Dyke Path, where they will discover the history behind Britain’s longest ancient monument, as well as past hill forts, castles, rich in Anglo-Saxon history.

The holiday is priced from £959 per person including B&B accommodation, luggage transfers between hotels and route directions and maps. https://www.headwater.com/

OUR PLANET: DISCOVER THE NATURAL WONDERS IN REMOTE GUYANA

David Attenborough’s Netflix exclusive, Our Planet, picked up two Emmy Awards for its exploration of the rich natural wonders, iconic species and wildlife spectacles that still remain, and revealed the key issues that urgently threaten their existence. The remote South American nation of Guyana is one of the last remaining places in the world where travellers can experience nature in its purest form. Part of the Guiana Shield, one of four primary rainforests left in the world, 87% of Guyana’s territory is made up of pristine Amazon jungle, home to over 820 bird species and 225 mammal species and counting. The variety of ecosystems from dense jungle to grassy savannah like plains are home to iconic species such as the elusive jaguar, harpy eagle, giant river otter, giant anteater and black caiman as well as lesser-known species endemic to the Guiana Shield such as the Guianan cock-of-the-rock and the golden rocket frog.

Wildlife Worldwide’s (wildlifeworldwide.com) offers a 15-day ‘Guyana: A Pristine Wilderness’ tour priced from £5,845 per person including international flights, internal transport, accommodation and most meals.