Chile - House Of Coco Magazine

Chile November 9, 2023

11 Of The Best Foodie Hotspots Around The World

There aren’t many things that make us happier than food and travel. So when we get to put our two true loves together, as you can imagine, we are a bunch of happy folk here at House of Coco.

We’ve put together our roundup of the best foodie hotspots to inspire your inner piglet to hop on a flight…

Denver, Colorado – www.colorado.com
From green chile synonymous with Colorado’s ancient Pueblo communities to buffalo in the Old West, Colorado’s culinary scene has been integrated into the culture of the state for centuries. For those looking for a quirkier dining location, Linger an ‘eatery’, is set in a former mortuary, whilst Ophelia’s Electric Soapbox serves American food in a former brothel.

Taste of Denver: For a real taste of Denver, a three hour walking food tour will give visitors an insight into the ever expanding food scene of this vibrant city. Sample Zoo Ma Ma’s infamous noodles which are inspired by her mother’s home cooking and then wander down to the Wynkoop Brewery for a tipple at the oldest brewery in Denver, finished off with a trip to Milk Box, one of the most popular ice-cream creameries in the city.

Greater Palm Springs, California – www.visitgreaterpalmsprings.com

The Greater Palm Springs area is a burgeoning foodie destination plating up for Hollywood A-listers and being home to the largest date growing region in the US. Creative chef-driven restaurants and gourmet stores serving local specialities such as Date Shakes are driving more food lovers to the area. Thanks to the ideal farming conditions in Greater Palm Springs, the popularity of farm-to-table restaurants is increasing, with La Spiga and Workshop Kitchen & Bar offering the freshest dishes, whilst making use of the best local produce.

Desert Tasty tours: Visitors can take a walking food tour through the desert and experience the best food Greater Palm Springs has to offer, whilst also learning unique insights about the history of the area from an expert guide. Choose to explore El Paseo or Palm Canyon Drive over the course of three hours and expect many tasty dishes, from award winning Bill’s Pizza to nationally acclaimed toffee and popcorn shop, Brandini Toffee.

Newport Beach, California – www.visitnewportbeach.com

While Newport Beach is mainly known for its beautiful coastline, there are many tasty restaurants to be found around the area with freshly caught seafood and scenic waterfront dining. As locals in Newport Beach have one of the highest average incomes in the area, the food options tend to match their high standards.

Dock and Dine: Eat like a local and experience a classic Newport Beach dining experience. Choose from over a dozen restaurants and enjoy a dinner cruise whilst docked in the marina, sampling the best food, food truck catering and stunning views on offer. Cannery Seafood of the Pacific is a favourite with the locals and offers visitors a menu packed with freshly caught local seafood to complement their impressive award-winning wine list.

Portland, Oregon – www.travelportland.com

Portland is globally renowned for its gastronomy scene. Home to over 700 street food trucks, food festivals, food specific walking tours, farm to fork concept dining and an ever expanding vegan offering. Portland is the place for foodies to head to this year, as Delta have confirmed a seasonal direct flight from London Heathrow, operating 4th May – 26th October.

Hands-on culinary experiences include:

Tea Tasting Appointment at Smith Teamakers: Coffee or beer might come to mind when you think of Portland’s craft beverage scene, but tea is also on the rise. Founded in 2009, Smith Teamakers blend and pack teas and botanicals in very small batches from the world’s best producing regions. Take a guided tasting in their new tasting room in SE Portland which has unique, artisanal, and highly curated range of products.

Tasting at Teutonic Wines Urban Winery: Local wine geeks have fallen hard for Teutonic’s Swiss-German-style wines since Barnaby and Olga Tuttle debuted their pinot noir in 2008. Since then, Teutonic has sold out vintage after vintage. The Tuttles’ wine is unique, including a few, like silvaner and chasselas, that practically no one else in Oregon makes. The Tuttles aim to introduce their bottles to a wider audience with an urban winery and tasting room in Southeast Portland.

Sacramento, California – www.visitsacramento.com

Sacramento is known as the Farm to Fork capital of the US AKA foodie heaven, with the lower rent prices and ideal climate, the city has seen an influx of Bay Area chefs as it is much easier to set up shop here and with the easy access to all the organic produce they come up with the tastiest menu offerings. 96 percent of the country’s tomatoes come from within 250 miles of Sacramento, as well as 95 percent of California’s sushi rice, exported in mass to huge sushi industries such as Japan.

Get hands on with a local cookery class at Sacramento Natural Food Co-Op: From udon noodles to Indian street food or entertainment with cheese, the Co-Op offers something for everyone with the opportunity to get hands on in the cookery class. They also offer wellness seminars and gardening workshops, helping to make connections about important food, health and environmental issues in support of local family farms.

San Diego, California – www.sandiego.org

Renowned for its unique flavours and a collaboration of chefs from both sides of the border, Mexico’s Baja-Med scene combines California’s emphasis on fresh and local ingredients to create a delicious and unique new menu, fondly known to the locals as ‘Cali-Baja’. Fish tacos and grilled octopus on a tostada are amongst the favourites. This Mexican heritage also influences art, culture, music and architecture.

Taco making at Galaxy Taco: Trey Foshee’s Galaxy Taco is a celebration of the culture and cuisine of Mexico, where you’ll find simple foods done well. A casual Mexican restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating, Galaxy Taco grind their own masa from non-GMO heirloom corn to make their tortillas. The lunch menu is an interpretation of Mexican street food, with an emphasis on seafood and tacos and the dinner menu has additional family style offerings.

San Francisco, California – www.sftravel.com

With the huge production of fruits, vegetables, seafood and livestock surrounding San Francisco in California, chefs are able to create fresh authentic meals that are enjoyed by both locals and tourists. San Francisco is home to an array of restaurants offering a wide selection of foods, including the Mission District, the city’s exuberant hipster neighbourhood with Latino roots where restaurants like La Taqueria serving up one of the best burritos in the area. Home to the largest Chinatown outside of Asia, any trip to San Francisco must include a taste of the Asian cuisine, including dumplings from Yank Sing or noodles from M.Y. China, prepared right in front of your eyes.

San Francisco visitors can test their own culinary skills by taking part of one of the many culinary classes within this diverse city. The Wok Shop, located in San Francisco’s Chinatown, host ‘Wok Wednesday’s’ for visitors to develop their Stir Fry Skills learning from advanced ‘wokers’.

Santa Barbara, California – www.santabarbaraca.com

Foodies in Santa Barbara can take a Famers’ Market Foodie Stroll with Bouchon’s executive chef, Greg Murphy, for a true ‘farm to fork’ wine country cuisine experience. After perusing the fresh produce with the chefs at the Santa Barbara Food Market to select ingredients, diners can see the fresh food transformed into a three-course dinner paired with local wines. A market tour and three course dinner with wine costs $95 per person. For budding photographers, Eat This Shoot That! offer food or wine tours with an interactive photography element. The Funk Zone Food & Photo Tour explores the food of Santa Barbara’s newest neighbourhood, with eight tasting locations, spanning 3.5 hours. Visitors can learn foodie photo tips and tricks using a smartphone, with backdrops of hidden graffiti art and galleries. $99 adults, $89 children.

Setouchi, Japan – setouchitrip.com

With the ever increasing popularity of Asian food around the world and the increase in Japanese restaurants throughout the UK, including the opening of Japan Centre in central London, Japanese food has never been so hot. What better way to taste the Japanese delicacies than to travel to Japan’s Inland Sea, Setouchi, and try its fresh produce for yourself.

Udon Taxi Tour: Foodies rejoice, as Takamatsu, Kagawa Prefecture, is the Udon capital of Japan. Here visitors can watch the dough being hand-stretched and noodles boiled over a wood fire. Big time Udon lovers can even hail an Udon Taxi that will take them to explore famous Udon spots across the prefecture – easily spotted thanks to the giant replica of a bowl of Udon attached to the car roofs.

Sonoma County, California – www.sonomacounty.com

Visitors to Sonoma can enjoy an array of culinary experiences, including the Sonoma Marin Cheese Trail or the Farm Trail. A year-round cornucopia of fresh produce is available even in the most remote corners of this fertile region, contributing to an abundance of award-winning restaurants and wineries.

For a hands-on experience, visitors to Sonoma can join a cookery class at Ramekins, where they capture the essence of Wine Country living with fresh foods, fabulous wines and good company. Hands on classes are hosted throughout the year, with a huge range of cookery options on offer. Whether it’s learning to cook a favourite seafood dish or perfecting Italian pasta, these cookery classes will complement every taste bud.

The Islands of Tahiti www.tahititourisme.uk/en-gb/

French Polynesia benefits from amazing weather all year round. It’s a virtual Garden of Eden, where exuberance and abundance go hand in hand. Farmers grow a wide variety of fruits, spices and vegetables, combining aromatic qualities with nutritional benefits.

Guests to The Islands of Tahiti can take their hand in the kitchen and learn the traditional culinary arts, including at some of the large hotels where the chefs organise culinary workshops. Every Tuesday and Thursday, guests at Le Meridien Tahiti are introduced to the techniques used by the chef, to understand the blend of exotic Asian and Western flavours using the freshest and finest of locally grown and caught produce.

Chile November 9, 2023

6 Sophisticated Hen Party Getaways

Put away the willy straws, these hen party getaways make for the ideal sophisticated weekend away if you’re looking to plan something a little more chic for your bride. From stylish European city breaks to glamping with the girls, here are #teamcoco’s top 6 sophisticated hen party getaways for a high-end hen do.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B04GJ-PIxgA/

1. Bordeaux: For the wine-loving bride

The heart of French grape-growing country, Bordeaux is the ideal hen-do destination for any wine-loving bride-to-be. Flights from London airports are some of the most inexpensive to be had in Europe, but there’s nothing low-market about this pretty part of South West France. Bordeaux city makes for a great night out with its buzzy bars and restaurants, but the real draw here is the quaint little villages and vine-striped scenery that make up the surrounding French countryside. You can either head east, following the banks of the Dordogne towards Bergerac, stopping for a wine tour in St. Emillion, or west to the coast at Cap Ferret, where French seaside chic meets The Hamptons coastal cool, and you might even bump into Leonardo DiCaprio at one of the low-key day drinking spots.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BUhBPhBA5Ln/

2. Ibiza, Santa Gertrudis: For the Boho bride

We know what you’re thinking – Ibiza isn’t exactly what you think of when it comes to a sophisticated hen getaway, but hear us out. This may be the clubbing capital of Europe, but head beyond the bright lights of the San Antonio strip, and into the centre of the island and you’ll discover a magic side to the White Isle that has so captivated bohemian types since the 70s. A chic little village in the centre of the island, Santa Gertrudis is home to a cosmopolitan set of city escapees, artists and musicians. Often called Ibiza’s ‘Notting Hill’ – its upmarket eclecticism is reflected in the art and boutique shopping, as well as the village’s reputation as the island’s culinary capital (we like the garden setting at Finca La Plaza and cute Italian La Mesa Escondida for a meal out). Stay at the Scandi-chic villa Ses Palmeres, a 6-bedroom villa with a sweeping pool and grounds, within easy walking distance of the town centre.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bzv0p0fHuD3/

3. Skiing in Val D’Isere: For the fun-loving bride

Could there be anything more fun than a group of hens hitting the slopes? #teamcoco thinks not. It’s less expensive to rent a fully catered chalet per person than getting a hotel, so if there is a big group of you, this can work out well for a long weekend in the mountains – plus, catered chalets often include house wine (win). Whatever standard your group is, make sure you choose a resort where the après scene is easily accessible, even for beginner skiers. One of our favourites has to be Val D’Isere, where you’ll find the epicentre of slopeside debauchery, La Follie Douce, just at the top of the cable car.

https://www.instagram.com/p/ByLmvarld5I/

4. Provence: For the laid-back bride

For a pre-wedding chillout, you can’t beat the rolling rural hills of Provence. Just an hour’s drive from Marseille’s easily accessible airport, which boasts inexpensive flights from multiple European capitals – Provence is a great solution if you have hens arriving from different destinations. This is South of France chic without the Riviera price tag, a land of #Roseallday, dreamy hilltop villages and lavender fields. With a host of Airbnb’s to choose from, hole up in a pretty Provencal villa with your hens, hire a chef and enjoy cheap local wine poolside. Bliss.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BvkWsI_oeWK/

5: Porto: For the arty bride

No longer content to dwell in the shadow of its sister Lisbon, Portugal’s second city has seen a resurgence in the last decade, its restored historic city centre now filled with quirky cafes, cool wine bars and design concept stores, all frequented by a hip young crowd breathing life back into the city. With colourful facades stacked across the landscape, the blue and white tiled azulejos for which the city is so renowned make the perfect backdrop for wandering the cobbled streets, just soaking up the city’s rambling medieval architecture. Come the evening, grab a white port and tonic at one of the bars and cafes in one of the squares and drink it out in the streets with the locals, before heading to the hub of Porto’s nightlife, the Galeria de Paris e Rua de Cândido dos Reis. With drinks so affordable, it’s a good job that the city’s most famous food – the francesinha is the ultimate hangover cure. A sort of suped-up spicy Croque-monsieur, hungover hens should head to cult Cafe Santiago for the city’s best.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BiBiX6Xl_a2/

6: Glamping: Wriggly Tin Huts, South Downs, UK – for the countryside bride

There’s something so effortlessly sophisticated about the good old English countryside, and how better to immerse yourself in it than with a glamping hen-do. There are some great spots all over the country (we like using Canopy and Stars to find the best), but if you’re looking for somewhere within relatively easy reach of London, hidden away in the heart of the South Downs National Park near Hambledon, this cute-as-can-be campsite makes an ideal country getaway. Set in a secluded meadow, surrounded by ancient bluebell woodland, Wriggly Tin is made up of 6 shepherds huts, sleeping a total of 16 hens. There may not be any electricity, but the huts are cleverly designed, with wood-burning stoves for cooking and keeping warm, lovely lanterns, plush duvets and vintage details. Hen do’s have to take all 6 of the huts but can have the run of the campsite, including a wood-fired hot tub. While it may seem low-key, gathering around the campfire with your girls is all you really need for the perfect hen getaway.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BoYfIRwgGhE/

Chile November 9, 2023

Monaco-Based Luxury Beachwear Label 209 Mare Celebrates Its 2-Year Anniversary

209 Mare was born out of the idea that men’s beachwear has been lacking innovation and excitement. Every men’s beachwear brand does the same: swim shorts, flip-flops, t-shirts, without challenging what men’s luxury beachwear can be. That is why the two brothers Federico and Gabriel Uribe started 209 Mare in Monaco 2 years ago and introduced the Beach Blazer, a men’s luxury beachwear product that stands in a category of its own.

By lining the velvet shawl collared Beach Blazer with a cashmere-soft bamboo toweling material, 209 Mare introduced a product that allows men to go from ocean swim to lunch on a yacht seamlessly in style while also drying themselves. For the first time, this brought the elegance and class of the men’s blazer to summer attire in a functional and luxurious manner. Developing their first collection of Beach Blazers in Italy, the two brothers sought to redefine what men’s luxury beachwear should be and this is reflected in the brand’s slogan “Breaking the Rules in Style”. Thanks to this innovative approach 209 Mare believes it is setting the new standard in luxury beachwear.

After a successful first collection, 209 Mare introduced a collection of Towel Tuxedos, a variation of the Beach Blazer, for men and women. The new collection sold out in several variations within weeks and has been placed on back-order to fulfill demand. Within 14 months of launching the first collection 209 Mare has been sold in more than 60 countries and every continent.

However, what is most interesting is the backstory to the brand.

‘209’ represents the 20th of September, specifically 20/9/15. On this day 209 Mare’s Creative Director and co-founder Federico Uribe fell 10 meters down a balcony in Madrid. This accident is one that most likely would have resulted in his death, yet miraculously he survived with considerably minor injury. As a result, not only was this the day that Federico vowed to start his own fashion line, but it was also the day that would change the world of luxury beachwear. The 20th of September is known as the “Founding Day” for 209 Mare, and this year marks the 2nd anniversary for the brand.

Brother-led luxury beachwear label that was founded in the Principality in 2016 and invented the Beach Blazer and Towel Tuxedo celebrates its 2-year anniversary on the 20th of September, the fateful day in 2015 that led to the near-death of one of the founders.

Today Monaco-based luxury beachwear start-up 209 Mare celebrates its 2nd anniversary, a day that the brother-duo founders never thought might come. “When we first embarked on this project we did not know how far it would take us” says Gabriel Uribe, the Director of Operations and co-founder of 209 Mare. Since Federico and Gabriel Uribe launched the luxury beachwear start-up back in 2016, the brand has introduced both its Beach Blazer as well the second variation, a Towel Tuxedo, as well as a collection of unique Swim Trunks and Swim Shorts made in Italy and Portugal. The brand positions itself as ‘The New Standard in Luxury Beachwear’ while stating that its beachwear is designed in Monaco for yachts and beach clubs around the world.

Since launching sales last summer, the brand has sold its luxury beachwear in more than 70 countries in every continent (except Antarctica) thanks to its unique beachwear concept. Unlike other beachwear brands, 209 Mare differentiates itself due to its unique beachwear concept, which is that of challenging what luxury beachwear can and should be. Its original product, the Beach Blazer, which is a towel-lined tuxedo like jacket made for men to wear whether at Nikki Beach Monaco or on a Yacht, has been received with enthusiasm by its customers who seek to elevate their level of beach wear to new levels of elegance and luxury in order to stand out. Resulting from the positive feedback of the Beach Blazer, 209 Mare’s Creative Director and co- founder Federico Uribe developed the 209 Towel Tuxedo. Based off of the 209 Beach Blazer it introduced a more casual version of the Beach Blazer while still maintaining the ideals of elevated luxury beachwear at the pool. Promoting its Monegasque-roots, 209 Mare has partnered with local influencer and Monaco luxury ambassador Tom Claeren to produce a series of high-quality content that reflects the lifestyle of the brand.

2 years later however, Federico Uribe reflects on the event 3 years ago today which started the ripple effect of the creation of 209 Mare. On the 20th of September 2015, Federico was in Madrid studying for his MBA at the Instituto Empressarial when he was attending a celebration for the Chilean Independence Day. While leaning against the skylight of an underground garage, the glass cracked below him and he fell 10 meters down on to the hard concrete of the garage below him. In what his doctors would later claim was a miracle, Federico walked away almost unharmed from the incident – a one in a million chance of such an outcome as described by doctors. Federico saw this incident as a re-birth and decided to dedicate himself to his passion for fashion and creativity. He vowed to start a company and name it ‘209…’ in commemoration for 20/9, the day that he was given a second chance at life.

A few months later Federico was in Chile visiting a friend when someone made the comment that the bathrobes they provide you at high-end hotels and spas are always uncomfortable and far too large. This lit up a creative spark in Federico who decided to reinvent what wearing a jacket to the pool should be. At the 2016 Monaco F1 Grand Prix Federico brought the first prototype of what would become the Beach Blazer, and thanks to positive feedback and interest he decided to start a company to design and develop the new standard of luxury beachwear for men. In the fall of 2016 he invited his brother, Gabriel, to join him and start the venture of revolutionizing the luxury beachwear industry.

Today the brother-duo are celebrating a milestone since the inception of 209 Mare as they have two successful summer season to prove their innovative approach. Right now they are getting ready to present the Summer 2019 collection in a few weeks in a bid for a global reach expansion to continue revolutionizing what both men and women wear to Beach Clubs and Yachts.

Chile November 9, 2023

Tastes of Tulum and authentic Mexico at Cantina Laredo

If you’ve ever been to Mexico you will know what I mean when I say the food is off the scale. I was lucky enough to spend some time there last year and got to sample some of the best Mexican cuisine. I’ve got to be honest, since then I’ve not eaten much Mexican food as I always end up feeling short changed and disappointed, even something as simple as guacamole has never quite hit the mark. That was until I went to Cantina Laredo, a vibrant Mexican restaurant in the heart of Covent Garden.

Cantina Laredo has a contemporary vibe and sophisticated approach to Mexican food. This is reflected in the minimal décor, snug booths, tall tables and bar seating are all complimented by low lighting. An independent restaurant, it is owned by the Ginsberg family who are dedicated to creating an authentic modern Mexican experience. Tarryn Ginsberg has teamed up with one of Mexico City’s culinary experts, Roberto De la Parra to create an informal sharing menu that takes diners on a journey through Mexico’s diverse regional cuisines.

The menu is full of Mexican staples and bites all bursting with bold intense flavours using high quality ingredients. We went for the bottomless brunch menu, it’s good value and has plenty of choice unlike some brunch menus.

As soon as our drinks arrive our waiter sets up a trolley beside the table and starts mixing from scratch plump Hass avocados with red onion, tomatoes, lime juice and coriander creating their classic guacamole – it’s simple, creamy and fresh and tastes so good, I’m instantly taken back to a Tulum beach bar. Cantina Laredo has their own dedicated guacamole bar, it’s not gimmicky, it’s awesome. Their in-house “Guacamaestro” will create right in front of you a one of a kind guacamole to suit your taste. Some of the combinations on the menu includes Grasshoppers with Grilled Avocados, Creamy Blue Cheese with Almonds and Pineapple with Pomegranate Seeds.

I was tempted to eat my way through the guacamole menu and had to restrain myself, instead I opt for the Crispy Chicken Tacos with chile de arbol cream. These crunchy little morsels were delicious and packed a punch with plenty of filling and flavour. I then went on to try the Brochetas de Arrachera. Fiery, tender skewers of skirt steak bathed in sweet Mexican soy and chile de arbol meant every bite varied in heat. Pudding was a highlight for me, a squidgy, rich chocolate, pecan and walnut brownie served with a sizzling agave vanilla butter and velvety vanilla ice cream.

There’s a buzz about the place, the Tequila bar slowly fills up with groups bustling to sample the signature margaritas and cocktails. Certified ‘Tequilistas’ are on hand to guide you through the unique tequila infusion menu. There’s an array of 100% blue agave tequilas and a range of Mezcals to choose from and the Cantina Laredo ethos, is ‘sip, don’t slam’. I try the Del Maguey Mezcal, at 49% it’s not for the faint hearted and not my thing but the margaritas are to die for.

If you’re after an authentic, modern taste of Mexico then Cantina Laredo is worth a visit.
To book at table visit www.cantinalaredo.co.uk or call 020 7420 0630.

Austria May 2, 2022

#SuccessWorldwide : The pioneers of Nordic tea culture with PLŪKT

As avid travellers here at House of Coco magazine, when we stumbled across PLŪKT tea and their tea sachets that are perfect for travel, we were hooked. Their tea is popular amongst our team which lead to intrigue, just who IS behind this brand?

The brand has introduced the world to herbal teas from the meadows and forests of Northern Europe and PLŪKT proudly call themselves the pioneers of Nordic tea culture.

We spent some time with the founder Mara Lieplapa to find out more…

Tell us about the journey that lead you to launching PLŪKT…

My family always encouraged to follow my own path, try as many things as possible and use my talents. So this entrepreneurial mindset was encouraged from early days, also in school we received lots of support to starting our own student businesses. So my first one was when I was 14 years old – I made grain pillows (all organic and from natural materials) which could be warmed up and later on used to relief joint pains and headaches. Also then the motivation and mission was quite similar to that of PLŪKT – bring joy, comfort and build something meaningful and beneficial. When I started university I was actively looking for my own business idea – attending all the conferences I could possibly attend, taking part in student competitions, trade shows, events, gatherings. All the places where I could meet entrepreneurs, have inspiration and contacts. I also used every opportunity to do exchange studies (in Sweden, Austria), so I gathered quite some international network, too. I had a chance to attend exchange trip to China where I visited their local “Silicon valley” in Beijing. I was amazed by all the startup ecosystem and innovations they are building. However, a few blocks away there was this very traditional tea market there. And suddenly all the dots and questions connected – what if I could create a Nordic tea culture by building brand which acts in a startup-like manner? It would allow me to connect my love for nature and purpose with fast-growing, innovative startup ecosystem. In fact, my mother has a wide knowledge of Northern European herbs and I thoughts that this is a resource that we already have in order to start a science-based company. After coming back, we started to create branding and design for PLŪKT. I was then 21 year old.

Also, I have always been passionate about international environment so it was my mission to build export-oriented brand. Today, PLŪKT exports 70% of products.

Being a sustainable brand is at the forefront of what you do, why was this important to you?

I grew up in a family where both parents are related to environmental sciences and nature preservation. Since we were kids, my sibling and I were always taught to take care of nature, find our peace and passion there. We spent incredible amount of time in nature. It seemed such a common sense back then, but in reality it was a privilege knowing how many people in the world have never seen such natural wilderness that we experienced from early age. Of course, this respect for nature has been within me since then and while I was looking for my business idea I had this ultimatum – I want to build something that benefits people and nature. Not to build just another thing in the world which will end up somewhere. I wanted to show the love for wilderness and nature through PLŪKT, at the same time raising awareness of biodiversity in Northern Europe and why it matters to preserve it. PLŪKT branding and design reflects exactly that. People fancy it and they are loving the message. I believe people don’t want to hurt something that they love or fancy, therefore there is a hope that they won’t harm nature either.

How do you want people to feel when they drink your tea?

First of all, joy, pure joy. I want them to feel connected with their authentic self, take it as a moment for themselves or for something that has high meaning in their lives. We are all so busy being busy that oftentimes do not prioritize enough the beautiful authenticity that lies within each and every one of us. We hope that PLŪKT tea time encourages to open up to ourselves for exploration. We love to see people taking PLŪKT with them to their favourite activities – be that a hiking trip, a travel, an on-the-go morning while living “big city life moment”, yoga class, meetup with friends and most importantly when surprising someone with this nourishing gift. Just like in nature, no two flowers or leaves are the same, so aren’t people. Wildlife inspired us to build authentic brand, therefore we hope that people feel this connection with nature while having a cuppa.

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

I would be louder (as in, less shy). Being rather an introverted person, I would oftentimes be seen as “the quite one” while in reality I had so much to say! Ultimately, it turned out into PLŪKT. As a young entrepreneur, it was always a challenge to gain recognition, gain respect and oftentimes society labeled “the loud ones” as those who are most impactful and have achieved something in their lives. Meanwhile, I was building PLŪKT in solitude and up to date am still cherishing the fact that my actions speak louder than words.

Also, I wish I have learned to ask for help and advice much more earlier. It would have saved me lots of time and some money, too.

Who’s involved in the business and what are their roles?

Co-founder Līga is responsible for all the science behind herbs and tea. She is our tea Master and holds the knowledge of benefits of herbal teas and comes up with new tea blends. She is also my mother and we make a good team, however we are not the typical family business. We encourage and are constantly looking for new talents to join our team. We have superpeople for social media, hard-working and accurate ladies working in manufacturing. And let’s not forget those over 30 family-owned farms who are supplying certified-organic herbs from wild meadows and forests.

Talk us through an average day in your life…

I wake up at 6-6:30am. I do a quick workout and stretching for about 20 minutes to get my body going. On Sunday nights I make a schedule for the upcoming week, however I am leaving Mondays as very flexible. I notice that on Mondays there are so many events suddenly coming up that can change the whole plans in instant. First part of the day is very productive for me so I work on the long-term plans at this time of the day. I have relatively late lunch, around 2pm, but I always eat wholesome and rich breakfast. Perhaps my favourite meal of the day. In the afternoon I love to change my working environment and choose to work from home, from a café or coworking space. Since I started my MBA studies in Finland, I have been traveling between Finland and Latvia quite often. And honestly, the more I am on the go, the more I get done because there is no time to overthink or expand too much in your texts. In office, it might feel otherwise. Afternoons are for meetings and lighter tasks. I would do some project visualisations, mood boards and creative activities. I end my work day around 4pm. Then I go for some hobbies – hiking, climbing, running, dancing or going for a cake with friends. Give a call or face time my family. Have a dinner and some me time, which could include reading, journaling, visualization and just thinking. I leave some room for spontaneity and if I notice a nice concert or event happening right now, chances are that I will go for it. Often I have late evening Zoom calls with business partners in US or likewise very early ones with partners located in Asia. I love this dynamics.

Do you plan on expanding the range in the future to offer more than tea?

We are already experimenting with different cold drinks where PLŪKT tea is used as a basis. Also we work on tea ware collection and development of other accessories relevant to tea.

What do you do when you are lacking creativity?

I get very active and sporty. I have always had so much energy and when I don’t feel creative I just know that my energy has been piled up for a while and just asks for release. I love climbing, hiking, running. Part of my love will always belong to dancing which was the second option of mine when I was thinking of career path. Oftentimes if I really need to come with something, but nothing amazing is coming up I go with “done is better than perfect”. The thing is, through these 3-4 years with PLŪKT I have learned to trust myself a lot and I am sure that creativity will come as soon as I start working on the task. I love what I am doing so naturally I want it to work out as good as possible. One thing I can tell for sure, tasks regarding administration, bureaucracy etc. definitely are decreasing my levels of creativity and therefore I schedule days just for these ones, so they would not interrupt creative parts of the business too much.

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

A lot, most of the media has deepened their connection with our story through social media.

What is your go-to quote when lacking motivation?

“If you sell the excitement, you sell the jet.” I remember hearing this in one of the conferences about 5-6 years ago. I was thinking to myself – yeah, resource-wise, I really don’t have much to offer at the moment as a student. But I do have a time, enthusiasm and energy! Sometimes that is all it takes to go from 0 to 10, especially when lacking motivation. Getting excited for how much you have done already and enthusiastic for the upcoming journey. It is charming and this kind of energy attracts.

Our readers love to travel, what destination is on your must visit list?

Since I can remember, Nepal and hiking Everest basecamp has been on my bucket list. And fortunately this is another dream that will come true later this year! Now my next dream destinations are Cancun in Mexico, New Zealand, South Korea and Chile.

What does self care mean to you?

It means saying “no” to things that are not of use AND are not bringing me joy. These days it is easy to get lost in all the requests and needs of others. Self care is remembering to prioritizing your values and your time.

Self care is taking time off without waiting for breakdown. It is about scheduling your hobbies, quality time with friends and family just the way you schedule your daily work tasks.

One of my personal favourite self care activity is baking cakes and making pastries in combination with a hike later in day.

Where do you see the brand in the next 5 years?

Still ad the pioneers of Nordic tea culture and hosting international tea mastercups in our tea house in Madona region, Latvia. We are a recognized player in tea world. By then, Nordic Black tea – caffeine free alternative to black tea made from wild Fireweed herb – has become the thing and becoming the standard in tea world. I see that there are over 300 certified organic farms joining our supplier network in order to protect biodiversity of Northern Europe.

Where can people find out more?

Website www.plukttea.com

Our Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, TikTok @plukttea

We have retailers and distributors in 18 countries so feel free to reach out and learn where is the closest place to have a cup of PLŪKT tea.

Chile April 26, 2022

We Need To Talk About Club Med: Ski Edition

Let’s just start with the important fact. Club Med isn’t what you think it is.

After spending time in the French La Rosière ski resort, I can assure you that Club Med is the absolute luxury you’ve been looking for from an all-inclusive hotel in the mountains.

If you think otherwise, then you’ve been watching too much ITV and reading too much Daily Mail. Delete the app, and block the site, now.

All- inclusive doesn’t only mean leather skinned, motability-scooter-riding, smoke-encrusted elderly ladies by the pool, not when it’s Club Med all-inclusive.

Club Med take all-inclusive holidays to the next level. From the ever-attentive reception staff with whom nothing is too much trouble, to the dining room of a foodie’s dreams with multi-national cuisine and ever flowing wine.

Let’s think about the fundamentals of a damn good ski or snowboard holiday.

Skiing/ Snowboarding

Okay, so maybe it’s not essential that you enjoy the buzz of the sport to be able to enjoy a Club Med snow holiday, but you’ll love it.

Included in your packaged price is ski or snowboard lessons for any age at the Alpine Ski School. There is a snow garden for children right outside of the ski locker area and there is a beginner area for adults that you could use on your own after lessons just to build that confidence.

Once you’re up to speed you can explore the Espace San Bernardo which spreads across the border of France and Italy. On your first ski or snowboard holiday, you could be skiing or snowboarding in two countries.

Snow

Powder, preferably, but snow in any form will do. The resort sits above the tree line at a height of 1850m and offers 180km of pistes.

As the resort is so close to Mont Blanc and the Little Saint Bernard Pass (Col du Petit Saint-Bernard) you’re more or less guaranteed snowfall from December to the end of April.

Après

The heart of Club Med La Rosiere is the huge yet cosy sofa-lined lounge bar. Alpine vibes all-round, snacks laid out ready and bar staffed for Après.

This south facing resort also benefits from plenty of bluebird days out on the balcony. With views over the valley, there’s no better spot to share a cheers and chat about butt-hurt-bails.

Spa

Every great day out on the slopes ends with a tipsy swim. At Club Med La Rosiere you can do this indoors, or outdoors with mind-blowing 180° views.

Sooth those aching muscles in the outdoor whirlpool, ease your wind-burned skin with a Cinq Monde facial, and relax in the Hammam.

Cuisine

Every Club Med restaurant goes above and beyond when it comes to food. What are you normally eating on a ski or snowboard holiday? Tartiflette every day? Mountain fries? You know the ones. Expensive disappointments but great with your mountain beers.

The dining area, Le Mont Valaisan, within the Club Med La Rosiere is like a food festival every single meal. Food from all over the world and regional specialities at specific stations and you can eat as much as you like.

A little tip… Club Med pizza is dangerously good. Approach with caution. Get it early otherwise you’ll eat an entire other delicious meal but still crave the pizza and you will eat it and leave yourself full and vulnerable!

For a special dinner you can book the San Bernardo Gourmet Lounge which offers a classier meal from a luxury menu à la carte, low lighting, live music, and a more intimate experience.

You are looked after at a Club Med resort, you are welcomed, and you are part of a club. A club that feels exclusive, yet at £1,334 per person all-inclusive or around £3,300 per couple including flights and other transport, is a very reasonable week away on the slopes.

Book now at Clubmed.co.uk or call 03453 676767.

Club Med’s other ski resort Club Med Alpe d’Huez, France featured earlier this year on House of Coco. Read here.

Argentina January 25, 2021

Success Worldwide : The One that loves Dogs with Pawdel

It all started with a rescued Aspin (a portmanteau of Asong Pinoy or Native Dog in the Philippines), and the desire to make it feel and look good. It was this beautiful beginning that sparked the launch of Pawdel, a lifestyle pet brand that is sure to make anyone swoon.

We spent some time with co-founder Arrian M. Lim to find out more…

Tell us the journey that lead you to launching your brand, Pawdel…

This isn’t my first business. But I’ve always dreamed of putting up any business for pets. In fact, my first business’ name was “Patchiro” – named after my first two dogs Patchi and Robby even though it had nothing to do with pets. Me and my partner have been to Europe and she would always buy all the nice stuff for our dogs. Until I realized we didn’t have any comparable accessories for pets here in the Philippines unless you go to a luxury pet supplies store filled with imported brands. That was my “Aha!” moment and I immediately worked on my business plan

Where did your love for dogs come from?

I grew up with dogs and cats in the household for as far back as my memory can recall so the love has always been there. Then I moved out at 21 and lived in an apartment that disallowed pets. I lived 4 years without a pet until we rescued Robby. He was my first dog as the primary caregiver. The responsibility is leaps and bounds different compared with before wherein you just pat their head, play with them and leave the rest of the responsibility to your mom. I certainly believe raising Robby advanced my maturity, patience and discipline by several years. That responsibility translated my love for them as if my dogs are my children.

Do you ever plan on extending your range and offering more products in the future?

I don’t view Pawdel as a pet accessories business. I see it as a pet lifestyle brand because my mission is to nurture the relationship between mankind and their most loyal pet companion. We started nurturing that with a wearable piece of love. But we recently started nurturing that too with a consumable piece of love like our successful Eau de Pawlogne (pet cologne). Our “North Star” remains the same in spite of a continuously evolving pet care market. I think that’s what keeps us agile yet focused in our strategic direction.

Since launching the biz, what has been your proudest moment?

My proudest moment has been to break the barriers in what people thought Pawdel couldn’t do. They said nobody would ever buy a USD 30 dog collar in the Philippines yet it is our cash cow right now after 2 years in the business. Neither did they believe that a humble small company in the Philippines, a pet care market with a very low per capita spending in spite of being a nation in the top 6 global dog population, can export to a first-world market yet we did break that barrier too.

Have you had to make any pivots to survive 2020?

Yes, we did but not as dramatic as some other businesses. Luckily, we started as an e-commerce business. So we’re not catching up in today’s contactless and “homebody economy”. We had already been seeing tremendous growth in the pet care industry before it was amplified now during this pandemic. More people spend their time and money at home now, further developing that bond with their pets.

Looking back, is there anything you would do differently?

I rarely regret anything as I’d rather learn from it. My progress today wouldn’t have been possible had I not had any of those setbacks in the past. Tomorrow’s success is the byproduct of yesterday’s failures.

What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?

“Frank Sinatra didn’t have the best voice. He was the most famous singer. But some guy singing in the shower somewhere probably had the best voice and nobody heard him sing but himself.” A lot of great talent, product or service went unnoticed and didn’t succeed because that trait alone wouldn’t sell itself. You have to go out there to be discovered and make it happen. No matter what you do in life, we are all in the business of sales.

When lacking motivation, what is your go-to quote?

“I may be very good at it today, but I’m not yet good enough for tomorrow.” I always repeat this to myself to have the confidence in facing my challenges but it also humbles me to remain a student of the game of life.

What have you learned during 2020 that no other year has taught you?

No amount of success can make your fortune irreversible. All the accumulation of wealth and belongings can be wiped out in an instant. And that’s a very unstable anchor for happiness. So it’s best that your satisfaction in life should be oriented on giving and making a positive difference to others. It doesn’t matter if that’s in the form of charity, hobby or business.

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

I’ve always been curious to discover the far ends of the Earth like Tibet, the Aurora Borealis of Norway, a safari tour in South Africa or the tail end of Chile and Argentina in Tierra del Fuego.

Where can people find out more?

People can discover more about Pawdel at www.pawdel.ph. We’re also open for international trade and distribution partners as our brand is now ripe for an adventure to meet dog and cat lovers from around the world.

Chile November 4, 2020

Hit the Gastronomic Spot While On Your Peru Adventures

Camper van tours have taken a hit in one of the most top-tourist destinations – Peru.

This South American country is home to some of the most breath-taking sights, experiences, and food offerings. Fortunately, touring this part of the world is now made more affordable as camper vans and trucker campsites have opened up for tourists.

If you are exploring this hot continent, you should never miss out on an in-depth exploration of Lima, Manchu Picchu, and the Nazca Lines. You can document your adventures with AV rentals,so you have something to show your friends and family or post on your travel website.

Apart from these unique sites, Peru also has a wild offering of gastronomic delights that you should try out. Here are some must-have and must-try delicacies while you are in the country.

Ceviche

This is Peru’s national dish and it is made out of the freshest, healthiest and tastiest marinated fish around. There are fine dining as well as street food versions of the recipe and it can be exhilarating to try out. The word ceviche is from the Quechua indigenous language which means fish.;

Causa

Another traditional dish that you must try out is the “Causa” or the cause. Stories about this dish tell the story of the war between Chile and Peru in the frontier. Due to this war, all that was left for food is potatoes. The wives of the Peruvian army prepared the best dish they can do using some other available ingredients and served a cold mash potato salad. It was referred to as the causa. Causa Lima may also have tuna, tomato, and avocado apart from the main ingredient which is the potato.

Lomo Saltado

This is probably the most popular meat dish that Peru can offer. It is a mixed influenced cuisine that blends Chinese and Peruvian cooking influences. When the Chinese arrived in the country in 1850, they brought in various cooking techniques. Thus, this dish involves flame-cooked beef in a wok with mixed Peruvian native ingredients like tomatoes, amarillo chilies, and red onions. What you get is a smoky-flavored dish with lots of character. The saucy combination of the Chinese and Peruvian ingredients make this special dish truly unforgettable.

Suspiro a La Limena

The name basically translates to “sigh of the Lima lady” and it was coined by the Peruvian poet, Jose Galves, when his wife Amparo made it for him for the first time. It is a popular sweet dish that you can take with you back home. It has a heavenly combination of dulce de leche and smooth meringue.;

Anticuchos de Corazon

Last on our list is another traditional Peruvian dish that is influenced by the Afro-Peruvian culture. When African slaves were first brought to Peru, they were only given offal to eat. They disguised this by marinating the meat with smoky chilies and spices. This created the anticuchos. It is now a well-loved street food and late-night dish you can munch on after enjoying the sights and sounds of the city.

Peru is truly a country with lots of surprises. It remains to be one of the world’s top destinations for the many wonders that it offers.

Visiting some of these sites is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, thus you should make the most of it during your tour. Don’t forget to sample various traditional dishes to know more about the city or town you are visiting.

Adventures August 20, 2020

Amazing Argentina

Take a handful of European chic, mix it with breath-taking landscapes, delicious food and wine, bundles of gaucho culture and a sprinkle of Latino flair and you have the beaut that is, Argentina. Whether you dance the tango in Buenos Aires or sip and ski in Mendoza, this South American country is rich in adventure and will seduce you from the moment you arrive.

Where to stay

Buenos Aires is a beautiful, buzzing and bustling city. Palmero Soho is a chic district in the Palmero neighbourhood, small and local enough to discover the authentic side of the city and is bursting with fabulous places to eat, some great bars and vibrant nightlife. Located in the heart of Palermo Soho is Mine Hotel. This contemporary, cosy boutique hotel has a beautiful courtyard curtained by lilac bougainvillea and a heated outdoor pool, perfect for relaxing or catching a siesta. If you want to explore it’s perfectly located and is walking distance from Plaza Serrano close to the city’s designer shops and a stone throw from the renowned La Cabrera steakhouse. The staff at Mine are exceptional and deliver an outstanding service.

Mine Hotel, Gorriti 4770, Palermo Soho, Buenos Aires, Tel: (54 11) 4832-1100

What to do

Argentina is an amazing place to explore, there are so many things to see and do that you’ll need a couple of weeks to get around and do it all which is why we’ve picked out some of the best things to try out.

You can’t travel to Argentina without trying out the tango, it’s a way of life and a rich part of the heritage. Buenos Aires is the tango capital and where best to learn this sultry dance than at Los Laureles. This legendary tango bar dates back to the early 1900s and its dancefloor has been host to some of the biggest names in tango. If you don’t fancy dance lessons why not visit the World Tango Museum, located above Café Tortoni. This museum is dedicated to everything tango, covering aspects of different styles and generations from De Caro, Gardel and Contursi, through to Discépolo, Pugliese, Goyeneche, Mores, Piazzolla, Avant-Garde and Contemporary.

Los Laureles, Avenue Iriarte 2290, Buenos Aires 1295

World Tango Museum, 833 Av de Mayo, Palacio Carlos Gardel, Buenos Aires

Argentina is home to an expansive natural wonderland. The Iguazú Falls is a UNESCO Word Heritage site, located about 800 miles NE of Buenos Aires. This natural border wedged between Argentina and Brazil is made up of 275 interlocking waterfalls spanning 1.7miles in width and is one of the most awe-inspiring sights on the planet. Hike along the trails, take a boat tour to the mouth of Garganta del Diablo (the devils throat) or get a bird’s eye view on a breath-taking helicopter ride. Whatever route you take you’ll be guaranteed to be overwhelmed by the beauty.

Trips to Iguazú Falls can be booked via www.guazufalls.com

The country’s wine capital is Mendoza. Nestled at the foot of the Andes you’ll find a plethora of bodegas (wineries) where you can sample some of the finest Malbec. Regardless of whether or not you are a wine lover you’ll enjoy Mendoza. The city is host to some fantastic restaurants and the streets are jam-packed with bars. If you don’t want to book one of the many wine tours then you can tackle a hike up Mount Aconcagua or try your hand at rafting, cycle around Mount Aconcagua national park and in the winter months ski.

Where to eat

A glorious mix of diverse cultures, the food scene in Buenos Aires is fabulous. Steak is obviously a must here, the ubiquitous parrillas (grill houses) are on every corner offering up the finest cuts of beef but Argentina’s capital also has buzzy pizza joints, fine-dining and Latin fusion restaurants.

Nardar Comedor

Plant-based ingredients are at the heart of the menu at celebrity chef, Narda Lepes’ restaurant. With a super-cool interior and friendly, attentive service this place is worth a visit for breakfast, lunch or dinner. The menu serves locally sourced healthy dishes packed with global flavours.

Nardar Comedor, Sucre 664, Buenos Aires 1428

Chan Chan

This cosy Peruvian cantina serves authentic, tasty plates of ceviche, big enough to share. They don’t skimp on the sides either; big bowls of rice are dished up with huge plates of papas a la huancaina (sliced potatoes in cheese sauce) or fried yuca (cassava).

Chan Chan, Hipólito Yrigoyen 1390, Congreso, Buenos Aires 1085

i Latina

Chef-patron Santiago Marcías perfectly combines fine dining with tasty food at this Latin American restaurant. Their tasting menu is a culinary journey that brings together dishes from Mexico to Patagonia, the impossibly tender beef cheek is to die for and the Oaxacan mole is bursting with flavour.

i Latina, Calle Murillo 725, Villa Crespo, Buenos Aires

Afternoon Tea July 23, 2020

WAKE UP HERE: A STAYCATION AT MAMA SHELTER LONDON

After (who knows how many) months of lockdown, three postponed destination weddings and one cancelled romantic getaway (with my better half), to say I was excited when I was invited to review the cheeky London outpost of Mama Shelter in Hackney, is an understatement! It’s been on my bucket list for some time and it didn’t disappoint.

On arrival, I was instantly greeted by all of the things that helped propel Mama Shelter as one of the world’s leading hotel brands: bombastic décor, welcoming and knowledgeable staff and of course, incredible location in London’s culture hub of Hackney. Needless to say, it offered a more subdued version of its usual self, but that’s fair given it now has to operate in a COVID-19 world, but they still did well to retain the playful personality it’s known and loved for. This included the team’s mandatory face masks, each emblazoned with its own unique mouth design (tongue out, lip biting, smiling with braces) turning a dull and restrictive item into a fun and desirable accessory.

The overall style of the played on its location in the heart of trendy east end with a mixture of mid-century and vintage furnishing throughout. The ground floor was a kaleidoscope of colours with a mish-mash of lampshades, long tables (which also double-up as great workspace), booths and chalkboard ceilings, along with an open plan kitchen. The Greenhouse, where I was met by their resident mixologist trying out new concoctions, was airy and bright with a retractable roof – a perfect space for dining with friends and drinking cocktails al-fresco. In winter, I can imagine it also offers a cosy alternative.

My room was 70’s inspired with playful little touches, including a novel corner booth with lush velvet emerald green cushions, super comfy bedding and perfectly proportioned (and very well lit bathroom). The room also had a great view over the old gasworks synonymous with nearby Regents Canal. And of course, it wouldn’t be a stay with Mama without their lovely selection of Mama Organic Skin Range (along with their suggestive namesakes, ‘Mama wants to cream you up’).

My beautiful room overlooking the famous gasworks on Regent’s Canal

After unpacking and freshening up, I headed to the Greenhouse for dinner. The (paperless QR) menu offers generous family-style dishes with some Turkish influences. My favourites: the burrata with borlotti beans, golden raising and gremolata and the simple (but delicious) cured sea trout with heritage beetroot, horseradish and lime. For the main, I devoured the Chicken Za’atar with harissa yoghurt, pickled cucumber and pistachio. The downstairs space and Greenhouse would also make a great brunch spot – the fluffy American pancakes were incredible! – with your friends or family and ideally located for exploring the area after.

As a former Hackney resident, I know the neighbourhood well and I couldn’t recommend it enough for readers looking to discover a new part of London or just fancied a fun night out without the hassle of getting a taxi home later. The hotel is perfectly placed between bustling Broadway Market (for lazy Saturday mornings) and Columbia Road (the infamous flower market runs on Sunday’s) and about a 15 minutes walk from Shoreditch High Street, offering endless art galleries, contemporary furniture and clothing stores and live music venues (although this is on pause for the time being).

Mama normally offers an unmissable program of events (currently on hold due to government guidelines) which has helped it to create a great sense of community among locals. Downstairs, Japanese-style karaoke rooms – they often host drag karaoke nights – are decked out with pinball machines, retro video games and classic 50s-style microphones and are available to hire for groups. Guests can also create personal souvenirs of their Mama Shelter experience with the photo and video booths, via the brand’s social platforms.

My first Mama experience was in Paris for my birthday a while back. It was one of their first hotels – Mama Shelter East – and I remember thinking then that it was ahead of its time, offering an affordable boutique hotel experience with all the trimmings you’d expect from a five-star hotel: great food, buzzing atmosphere, service and modern design (but without the hefty price tag).

The Mama Shelter journey started in 2008 with the launch of Mama Paris East. Founded by the Trigano family – co-Founder of Club Med – and world-renowned designer Philippe Starck, Mama Shelter believed in launching in lesser-known, ‘out of the way’ neighbourhoods in iconic cities, allowing guests to discover new creative corners with Marseille, Lyon, Bordeaux, Los Angeles, Rio de Janeiro, Belgrade, Prague and Toulouse soon added to the group’s portfolio. Today, MAMA’s international footprint continues to grow, with hotel openings in Lille and Paris West this year, and properties in Luxembourg, Dubaï, Santiago de Chile, Lisbon and further locations set to open by 2022.

It was lovely to see Mama’s managed to retain her charm even after global domination.

To celebrate their reopening, Mama London is offering stays from as little as £49* per night. The only condition is that you have dinner in their restaurant or via room service – seems fair to me!

For more information please visit: www.mamashelter.com/en/london/special-offers/staycation