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As we approach the summer season, one of the most popular destinations in Italy to consider visiting is Florence. We will examine the best places to stay, eat and enjoy immersive experiences so you can sample the very finest from the picturesque city.

Latest hotel opening

The most recent hotel opening in Florence is the distinctive 5-star La Gemma boutique hotel. The location could not be more central, steps away from Piazza della Repubblica. You are minutes away from designer boutiques and the most well-known monuments. It is situated in the former Palazzo Paoletti built in 1895 and then was subsequently used by the guild of hoteliers. The owners have painstakingly restored the interiors of the building and given it a funky art Deco vibe. The prominent green and pink palettes in the hotel reflect the similar colours used in the Duomo di Firenze. The alluring geometric shapes found throughout the hotel add a sense of whimsicality to your stay. Their Allure Spa offers personalised treatments in conjunction with Biologique Recherche to make sure the necessities of your skin come first. They will also offer a Turkish bath, hydro-massage bath, and ice shower along with their two therapy rooms.

The hottest restaurants and bars in town

You can enjoy a tour de Force fine dining experience at LUCA’s by Paolo Airaudo at La Gemma. The world-renowned chef runs countless famous restaurants across the globe, the most sought-after being his two Michelin-starred, Amelia in San Sebastian. Here, he offers elevated Tuscan cuisine in a refined yet relaxed environment. Despite the limited space, they have a very impressive wine cellar along with a bar that creates very hip cocktails with a Britpop theme. An alternative bar to sample world-class cocktails is Harry’s Bar The Garden at Sina Villa Medici Hotel. They serve classic cocktails using the finest ingredients and you get splendid views of the pool and garden of the hotel.

Another restaurant to consider is Gunè San Frediano. They specialise in Tuscan and Lucanian cuisine. They offer a 5 or 7-course tasting menu and expect to see delights such as a rabbit stuffed with foie gras and a tart served with white, milk and extra dark chocolate. The restaurant pays particular homage to the important women in our lives with post-modern paintings of iconic women commissioned with a local artist. If you want a casual venue populated by locals, then Trattoria Marione is a must-visit. You’ll enjoy comforting pasta dishes there such as pappardelle alla chinatigiana.

Food and aperitivo tours

I’ve always said the best way to explore a city and understand its culture is by doing a food tour. If you book with Curious Appetite Travel, that’s exactly what you’ll get as you discover the hidden gems of the city. Their historic food lover’s tour includes 5 gourmet tasting pit stops and you are guided by an experienced local who intersperses quirky historical facts in between the tastings. You’ll learn about the famous wine windows of Florence. You can sample local delicacies like budini di riso, which are Florentine rice pudding tarts. For those who are more into savoury dishes, you’ll get to try coccoli caldi and panini tartufati. The former is a deep-fried dough ball often stuffed with prosciutto ham and stracchino, whilst the latter is a truffle pâté roll. Particularly impressive is meeting local artisans such as visiting a farm-to-table deli, where the meat is from a farm a mere 11km away from the shop and run by the same family.

Italy Customized runs highly bespoke tours that cater to all requirements. They don’t just operate in Tuscany but throughout the country. With their aperitivo tour, you get to visit one of the most impressive wine stores in Florence. You can have a wine-tasting experience paired with cured meats and local cheese. And if you are very lucky and have the very personable owner, Linda take the tour; she can help you pick out the unique gems to buy as a holiday gift for friends or family. During the walking tour, you’ll pass very trendy street art from the likes of Andrea Roggi. During the tour, they might take you to hip neighbourhood wine bars where you can try a spritz cynar. The drink is well-known to aid digestion and is the ideal aperitif option.

Creating your bespoke perfume

Being the perfume capital of Italy, it’s not surprising you can find immersive experiences in the city where you can create your perfume. Visiting the master perfumer’s laboratory at Sileno Cheloni is like a journey into Hogwarts. With countless potions, you are guided by Sileno to discover what scents you are attracted to and learn the process of perfume-making. He also offers incense rituals and sensory dinners that arouse more than just your olfactory senses.

https://lagemmahotel.com/

This year is the 30th anniversary of the installation of the Big Buddha in Hong Kong, officially known as the Tian Tan Buddha. It’s a must-visit destination for any tourist visiting the enclave, whether they are religious or not. Taking 12 years to plan and build by the Po Lin Monastery, its architectural magnificence has been admired the world over. It might be on the same island as the local airport and Disneyland but you get a sense of what Lantau Island is about when you visit the Big Buddha. The mountainous greenery with breathtaking hiking trails is a far cry from the shopping mecca images frequently used to portray Hong Kong.

Getting to the Big Buddha might seem like a pilgrimage, but is remarkably straightforward especially if you opt for the Ngong Ping Cable Car rather than the winding bus routes through the island. It is an adventurous 25-minute journey ride. They offer crystal cabins with a glass bottom which offer uninterrupted views of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge and the Big Buddha. Once you get off, it’s a 10-minute walk to the monastery.

During the walk, you pass through Ngong Ping Village, a quaint revival of traditional Cantonese villages. You can sample traditional delicacies like egg waffles. You can purchase local handy crafts like Chinese opera accessories and masks. There are multimedia and immersive experiences like the art of chocolate making and a 5-D theatre suitable for the whole family.

The Big Buddha is the second-largest seated outdoor bronze Buddha statue in the world. The statue is 34 metres tall and you’ll need to ascend 268 steps to the base of the statue for a closer inspection. It is well worth the hike as you get splendid views of the verdant scenery surrounding the iconic structure. And if you are methodical, you’ll notice many famous faces having their final resting place including famed Cantonese pop star, Anita Mui.

The Big Buddha Statue was voted as the fourth of the 10 Engineering Wonders in Hong Kong in 2000. The first three were all government works projects. Top of the list is the Lantau Link followed by the Hong Kong International Airport Passenger Terminal, and in third place is the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre Extension. In terms of private projects, the Big Buddha statue came out on top.

If you want to escape the hectic city life, the monastery runs a 1-week mediation retreat held on the final week of the first lunar month. Leading monks will lead attendees on meditative walks and also there will be discussions about Zen Buddhism. It will especially help you with achieving clarity of mind if you are lacking focus or are easily distracted.

Chinese cuisine is not always known as the most vegetarian friendly but you can try exceptional Buddhist vegetarian dishes at the monastery. Dishes are designed to cleanse the body and the soul and might include steamed bean curd with olive leaf and asparagus with exotic mushrooms and cashew. There is also a snack shop next to the restaurant for those looking for a quick bite. You can sample the delights of bean curd dessert and glutinous rice dumplings filled with mango. The bean curd is made daily in-house and is known to be especially silky-smooth and inviting. Most of the items are prepared in small quantities and often do sell out.

Apart from the Big Buddha statue itself, there are plenty of other spectacles to behold such as the grand hall of ten thousand Buddhas and the main shrine hall of Buddha. Both of which are extremely busy, especially on religious days. There are plenty of garden areas for people to enjoy all the wonderful outdoor spaces such as the orchid garden and the bauhinia park. There is also the wisdom path, which is an installation of 38 wooden structures carved with the complete verses of the Heart Sutra, written by master calligrapher Jao Tsung-I.

https://plm.org.hk/eng/home.php

There’s always been a romanticism connected with the Dordogne Périgord region. There are countless châteaus steeped in history. You will find a famous UNESCO world heritage site. There is a garden that could be a new wonder of the world and a luxury hotel that would make King Louis XIV proud. Here, we examine why a fairytale journey to the region is at the top of most Francophiles’ wish lists. In particular, the region of Périgord noir, which is the most visited region in the Dordogne.

Charming châteaus

Are there exactly 1001 castles in the Dordogne Valley? I would guess more, but the advertising genius who came up with that slogan has sprinkled their stardust on the region. Those with a penchant for the paranormal should visit Château de Puymartin. It is widely known as the castle of the White Lady and has belonged to the same family for over 500 years. The neo-gothic style heightens the atmospheric haunted stories. The most famous is the story of the adulterous Thérèse de Saint-Clar in the 16th century, who was imprisoned in the northern tower until her death.

Another must-visit castle is Château des Milandes. Exuding feminine charm in abundance, it was the former home of renowned entertainer and civil rights activist, Joséphine Baker. She was widely credited by Angelina Jolie as an inspiration for “a model for the multiracial, multinational family”. Her art-deco bathrooms are dripping with decadence from black Murano glass tiles to real gold embellishments; her iconic costumes and her life story are on full display; whilst the stunning French garden with geometric topiary hedges and flower borders is a photographer’s paradise. The Ridley Scott 2021 film ‘The Last Duel’ was filmed at Château de Beynac. It was built in the 12th century and is one of the best preserved in France.

Prehistoric cave of Lascaux IV

The history of the region stretches back to the Palaeolithic period with the discovery of the remarkable Lascaux cave paintings. The animals depicted are of such exquisite quality, scope and sophistication, it was no surprise the site was given UNESCO World Heritage Sites status back in 1979. The original Lascaux cave was sealed off to the public in 1963 as the carbon dioxide and humidity generated by visitors were damaging the paintings. In a remarkable feat of ingenuity, they’ve recreated a complete replica of the prehistoric cave which you can visit on-site. It may be a facsimile, but it is an authentic dark and damp experience akin to the actual cave. They’ve also curated a travelling exhibition: The Cave Art of Lascaux: a Virtual Reality Experience, which will tour Bristol in the summer of 2023.

Photo courtesy of Dan Courtice

Marqueyssac gardens

Named by the BBC as one of the six extraordinary gardens in the world you must visit, the overhanging gardens of Marqueyssac are a sight to behold. With 150,000 hand-trimmed boxwoods in the shape of lollipops and balls, this is a botanical maze that will delight adults and children alike. The garden is perched 130 metres above the Dordogne River with breathtaking views of the idyllic countryside. There are 15 hectares of gardens and parkland with peacocks strutting alongside the 6 km of paths, so it’s the ideal place for picnic adventures or a romantic stroll. They frequently have temporary art exhibitions as well as offering more adventurous activities such as La Via Ferrata cliff climbing.

Domaine de Rochebois

After visiting all the fabulous châteaus, you will probably want to live the life of a marquis yourself. In that case, the only place to consider for your accommodation is Domaine de Rochebois. It is the only five-star hotel within a 200km radius. It is a family business run by the young entrepreneurs of the Pruneyrac family. They’ve brought their years of experience in the hospitality and tourism industry to deliver a refined experience fit for a marquis. The location might be set amongst quaint cottages and farmland, but it’s only a short, 15-minute drive to the medieval town of Sarlat. It has an impressive Benedictine abbey and is a great place to pick up gastronomic delights such as foie gras, black truffles, and duck confits.

There are 40 rooms and suites at the hotel decorated in green, purple, black and white, representing the colours of the Périgord. Throughout the hotel, you’ll see outstanding metal artwork from renowned sculptor Pierre Treilhes. He’ll use upcycled metal to create iconic pieces like the Gallic rooster. The hotel has a NUXE spa with a sensory pool for those seeking relaxation, and a 6-hole golf course for those seeking countryside greenery.

They take pride in offering world-class food and beverage options. Their gastronomic restaurant, Le M is led by executive chef Jean-Philippe Vecco, who trained under legendary Pierre Gagnaire and Alain Ducasse. His tasting menu starts with a butter tray station where you can use various accoutrements to create your own bespoke offering for your palate. It is all about supporting local producers and using local produce. Expect dishes like shredded Périgord suckling pig and Périgord pigeon cooked in 3-ways. An award-winning bartender will serve you a classy concoction at their Le Josephine bar, named after Josephine Baker. The cocktail to try is unsurprisingly Josephine’s favourite, which consists of Remy Landier Cognac, Champagne, Sucre de Canne, bitters, and huile d’orange. All-day dining is at Brasserie Le Wedge where they offer comforting classics like chicken ballotine with creamy risotto.

What Domaine de Rochebois does very well is to connect you with the outdoor experiences of Périgord noir. They can arrange a truffle hunting experience at Le Domaine de Vielcroze. They can arrange a hot-air sunset balloon ride. They can arrange for tours to one of the most beautiful villages in France, La Roque Gageac along with a kayaking experience. You can also visit the troglodyte caves of La Roque Saint-Christophe. The list of options is endless and Domaine de Rochebois makes a great base for you to discover the region.

https://en.sarlat-tourisme.com/

After spending what seemed like eternity in the cold, rainy polar vortex, I escaped. Once completing my first red-eye to London from Vancouver, I refreshed myself for another long flight ahead. Periodically, on the direct Air Mauritius journey from London, I would consult our map on our exact location. I finally located the small island in the vast, beautiful turquoise Indian Ocean. Mauritius, is approximately 1865 km2 or 470,000 acres and is volcanic in origin, thanks to the now dormant volcano on neighboring Réunion Island.

The morning Mauritian sun was ready to greet us, as we emerged from our plane and conveniently remained throughout our stay. There are only two seasons in Mauritius: Summer (October to April) and Winter (May to September). There is a mild climate all year round with an average temperature of 25ºC, which makes Mauritius the perfect year round destination. Our group had the unique experience of sampling a few Marriott properties on the island. While common denominators included the warm and inviting Mauritian hospitality and direct access to the tepid Indian Ocean; they each had their own unique vibe.

Quiet Luxury

Our adventure started at the JW Marriott Mauritius, which is located in the southwest Rivière Noire District. It lies on the Le Morne Peninsula. The sheltered lagoon, coupled with the large waves, makes Le Morne Peninsula ideal for both beginner and advanced kite surfers from around the globe. Mauritius hosts several international kite surfing competitions each year, such as Kiteival and Kite Jam. Stock photos of Mauritius often showcase Le Morne Brabant – a UNESCO World Heritage Site which is nearby the JW Marriott. 

Fresh from our journey (although not feeling very fresh at the moment), we were whisked away by golf cart to our suites by our butlers. In fact, there are only suites (172 in total) at the JW. From the king-sized bed to the oval bathtub, it would be easy to vegetate in your room. But why stay indoors, when the beach and the Indian Ocean are right outside your door?

Settling into island life was only a time adjustment – never a quality adjustment. The turn down service and service button located at each beach lounge umbrella, made assistance both accessible and attentive. There was a delicate dance between being helpful (A mosquito repellent cream magically appeared on my night stand, after I had a short casual conversation about bug bites) and not feeling overpowering or uncomfortable. The JW Marriott Mauritius staff seemed to know exactly what we needed. Case in point, when we arrived back to our rooms at the end of our first night’s dinner at the elegant South Asian fusion Floating Market restaurant, a warm bath was already drawn with the perfect water temperature.

The next morning, we toured the island on e-bike. It was a fabulous way to see Mauritius, and I welcomed the physical activity after the long journey. Not to mention, biking along a triathlon route in the heat was a humbling experience.

The serenity of the result was all encompassing. It was busy, but I did not feel busy. At the time, it was 80% full, yet it never seemed to be over crowded with people. The most people I saw at any given point was during common meal times.

The morning of our last day at the JW, we had breakfast in one of the largest private villas in the Indian Ocean. The sprawling, Grand Beachfront Villa sleeps up to eight adults and eight children across four luxuriously designed villas (three of which have their own private pool). Spread over an impressive 17,870 sq. ft (1,660 square meters), there is secluded beach and a dedicated 24-hour butler, as well as an array of in-villa facilities such as a bar, games room, fitness center, infinity pool and more. Available by private booking only, it fits those with the most discerning of tastes.

Dazzling Delights

As we entered the lobby of the Le Méridien Ile Maurice, from our day of sightseeing in Chamarel (Seven Coloured Earth Geopark, Chamarel Waterfall, Rivière Noire Gorges), we were transported to a sun-filled palace. Accents of black, cream and gold marble adorn the entryway. It was posh, without the pretension. We were thankful for the refreshing, cool facial towels and a welcome drink that greeted us at the door. 

The $60 million dollar renovation transformed the Le Méridien Ile Maurice to the place where friends and family can gather in the northwest Pamplemousses region. The property boasts 261 newly designed guestrooms and suites, an adults-only Nirvana wing, world-class spa and fitness center, three pools and a choice of four restaurants and three bars.

Before having a wonderful Mauritian meal at the beachfront Zoli Mamzel restaurant, I learned the art of sabrage. Sabrage is opening a champagne bottle with a saber. To our delight, everyone tried their hand at Sabrage throughout our stay, which kept the bubbles flowing. The Zoli Mamzel deck and restaurant was my favorite. Set on the beachfront, it has a wonderful unobstructed view of the sunset.

Not that we needed an excuse to relax, the next day we spent the afternoon indulging in the redesigned Explore Spa. Paul Bishop was at the helm of the renovation and transformed the space into a peaceful oasis with five treatment rooms. Besides the standard massages and facials, the spa offers hot-cold therapy as well. It was invigorating to try Mauritius’ very first and only snow room after sweating it out in the steam and sauna room. A must do for your visit to Le Méridien Ile Maurice.

Tranquil Wellness

We closed out our trip with a night at the Westin Turtle Bay Resort & Spa. Located in the northwest Pamplemousses region and on 800 meters (10 hectares) of beachfront within the tranquil and protected Turtle Bay Marine Park. With 190 spacious guest rooms and suites, each with its own private balcony or terrace, an adult-only Whisper Zone, a state-of-the-art spa and 24-hour fitness center, two outdoor pools and 5 restaurants and 2 bars. The property is a combination of the best of the two resorts mentioned prior, in one idyllic location.

Like the JW Marriott Mauritius, the Westin Turtle Bay Resort & Spa’s layout is spread out along the beachfront. Every guest room and suite overlooks a stunning ocean view and either has an outside terrace or balcony. My room was a Deluxe Family room, complete with a Heavenly® king-sized bed with a double Heavenly® day bed tucked in the corner. The massive marble bathroom has a separate shower room, soaker tub, and topped off with White Tea by WestinTM bath amenities.

The property, like the Le Méridien Ile Maurice, has a world-class spa. The Heavenly Spa by WestinTM, has a large focus on wellbeing. The spa offers a Be Well/Ness Sunday package providing guests with a holistic mind and body experience consisting of a private consultation with one of the resort’s wellness experts, a rejuvenating 60-minute massage, access to the Eat Well Buffet, serving fresh and organic dishes. Taking a short break from the sun and maintaining our relaxed mood, we participated in a Mandala art therapy class.

Is it a lengthy journey to Mauritius? Yes. Yet, having visited, I can attest that the charm of the island goes beyond the cliché of a “hidden gem.” The island is not hidden and is well worth the journey. Once you arrive, you will truly experience an island full of magic and marvel, paired with hospitality of the Mauritian people, that wraps guests in the warmth of the Indian Ocean.

Lan Kwai Fong has become synonymous with the nightlife scene of Hong Kong over the years. However, this wasn’t the case until 1983 when Allan Zeman famously opened California Restaurant on a narrow alleyway in this forgotten part of the Central district. Before that time, it was dominated by flower shops and warehouses but Allan had the vision to see the potential of the area. By 1984, Allan had bought the entire block and launched his career as a property mogul and a hospitality specialist. He reportedly owns 65% of properties in the Lan Kwai Fong area. His impeccable business acumen has seen him involved in wide-ranging industries from TVB (the ITV equivalent in Hong Kong), the Airport Authority of Hong Kong and Wynn Macau. He is currently the chairman of LKF Group whilst his son, Jonathan Zemen is the CEO.

The district is the place to be for all kinds of celebrations from Halloween to New Year’s Eve. Whilst people associate the countdown in New York with Times Square, locals and tourists alike gravitate towards Lan Kwai Fong on New Year’s Eve. Apart from being a major landlord in the area, they own some of the most distinguished restaurants in the area. The eclectic choices on offer have been the key to their success. In such a small radius, you’ll find the very best steakhouse in the city, the freshest sashimi dishes and restaurants with breathtaking views of the city.

In Hong Kong, it’s always been about sourcing the very best ingredients rather than local produce, being a tiny island in the South China Sea. At Porterhouse, you can savour full-blood wagyu from Mayura, Australia to extremely well-marbled, Rubia Gallega from Los Nortenos, Spain. Their legendary seafood brunch is unrivalled with unlimited oysters, Boston lobster and Irish crab. No other country executes buffets quite like Hong Kong and this is one of the most spectacular, you’ll encounter.

If you want to admire the scintillating skyline of Hong Kong, a top choice to consider is dining at Aria on the 24/F of California Tower. With floor-to-ceiling glass, an outdoor terrace and a trendy mixture of contemporary and art-deco touches, this is the place to see and be seen. You won’t be surprised to find the operatic nature of the restaurant name has inspired a menu filled with elevated Italian classics. Melanzane alla puttanesca and spaghettoni all’Amatriciana are all created from traditional family-style recipes but presented for 21st-century consumption. They have a wine club series in the coming months focusing on wines from different regions of Italy. In May, it will be Marche, in June, it will be Lazio and in July, it will be Tuscany. You’ll get to explore wineries that are hidden gems whilst dining on the finest Italian produce at this ever-popular restaurant.

Japanese food is undoubtedly still all the rage in Hong Kong. And the LKF Group have three distinguished offerings: Fumi – Japanese kaiseki, Tokio Joe – sushi & sake and Kyoto Joe – modern izakaya. Tokio Joe is particularly worthy of a mention. It is THE original Japanese restaurant of Lan Kwai Fong having been opened since 1995. It is one of the first restaurants in Hong Kong to offer an omakase menu. Their sashimi platters offer delicacies which you’ll rarely experience in Europe such as succulent Hokkaido sea urchin and akagai (red clam). They do frequently launch new products to be in tune with the times. Kyoto Joe offers an unlimited vegetarian feast which includes the likes of cauliflower tempura and yam sushi rolls. They also offer a decadent-sounding A4 Wagyu & lobster tasting menu dinner.

Lan Kwai Fong has developed into a cultural phenomenon with the likes of the Lan Kwai Fong beer and music festival. They’ve also expanded their brand into China with LKF Chengdu and LKF852 Prince Bay. They are most definitely one of the most exciting companies to have evolved in Hong Kong over the past decades and one to watch as the expansion plans are limitless.

https://www.lkfgroup.com/

Leave it to all those rom-coms set in New York to give it the allure of romance. No matter what time of the year. Think about the classics like When Harry Met Sally or more recent films like In the Heights and Netflix’s Your Place or Mine. It really doesn’t matter where you are in the city, be it the Subway or The Strand. It’s all romantic.

While anyone can make reservations at a great restaurant or book tickets for the hottest show, it’s all about creating an unforgettable experience.

One of the many wonderful things about New York is that there is something going on all the time; here are a few ideas to put you in the mood.

Activities

Regardless if this is a first date or 20th date, I really like the idea of being a tourist in your own town.

Every Friday and Saturday night, The Met Fifth Avenue offers Date Night, free with General Admission. There is live music, gallery chats and drink specials.

If you are looking for something more structured, City Experiences has introduced “Meet the Met,” an expert-led tour that shares deeper stories behind the art on a purposefully designed tour to cover 5,000 years of art in just 3 hours.

Looking for something to fit in your lunch hour? Try “The Met Express,” a 2-hour tour of highlights. In the summer and early fall, check out the Roof Garden for some magical weekend sunsets.

Just opened in Fall 2022 in Times Square, is The Museum of Broadway. The museum is founded by entrepreneur and 2-time Tony Award-winning producer, Julie Boardman, and founder of award-winning experiential agency Rubik Marketing, Diane Nicoletti.

Both immersive and interactive, the museum features the work of dozens of designers, artists, and theater historians who take on a journey along the timeline of Broadway. The Museum highlights more than 500 individual productions from the 1700s-present. There is a three-floor display of costumes, props, rare photos/videos, interactive sets and plenty of instagrammable moments to share.

In the 1850’s Hall des Lumières on 49 Chambers Street, was known as the Emigrant Industrial Savings Bank. Established by The Irish Emigrant Society, a charitable organization focused on assisting the financial interests of immigrants. It was the first skyscraper in New York City designed by Raymond F. Almirall, at 187 feet tall (57 meters) and 14 stories high. The Beaux-Arts style building was constructed in an H-shaped plan, which allows natural light to flood the rooms and from the outside gives the impression of a mirrored pair of towers.

Today, after a restoration process by global architecture studio Woods Bagot, Culturespaces (the European creator behind the critically acclaimed ‘Atelier Des Lumières’ in Paris) and IMG – the space has re-opened as an immersive digital art center in the Civic Centre Borough.

While the hour-long inaugural exhibition is Gustav Klimt: Gold in Motion, the website highlights special events held amongst the visual projections, like the Hot & Social Yoga or the 45-Minute Vinyasa Experience with Equinox. Tickets can be purchased online.

Stay

Staycations are a wonderful way to spend some time with your significant other and not require you to head to JFK or Grand Central.

In June 2021, the Graduate New York opened to serve as the island’s first and only hotel. Located at the entrance of the Cornell Tech campus, it offers 224 spacious guest rooms and suites overlooking the East River with breathtaking NYC city and waterfront views. It’s easily accessible via the F Train, Roosevelt Island Tramway, NYC Ferry or by car.

The property has two food and beverage offerings including a full-service restaurant, Anything At All, and Panorama Room bar and lounge which make it a perfect weekend getaway with a loved one.

Reopening in March 2023, NYC Glamping offers a glamping experience in the heart of Greenpoint, Brooklyn. The rustic, industrial shipping containers have been converted into comfortable rooms (120-240 sq Ft) complete with A/C, Heat, WiFi, shower, and a bathroom.

Not to mention, there is also free admission to the nearby Skyline Drive-In. If you are looking for something more akin to camping – tents are available too! Check out the unobstructed views of the East River and Manhattan skyline from this unique waterfront escape.

Ocean Park holds a very dear place in the hearts of most Hong Kong locals and tourists who have visited the magical marine park. For some it’s a theme park, for others it’s a conservation or education centre. The mesmerising location in the Southern District of Hong Kong with spectacular sea views makes it one of the top tourist attractions in Southeast Asia. Although it’s been having a tough time due to competition from the likes of Hong Kong Disneyland and COVID-induced lockdowns. However, with the indomitable Hong Kong entrepreneurial spirit, they’ve come back with bigger and better products that will secure their legendary status for decades to come.

On the top of the list of recent improvements is the opening of Water World Ocean Park at the back end of 2021. It is Asia’s first all-weather, year-round seaside water park. They have 27 indoor and outdoor attractions spread across five zones. The varying levels of difficulties range from a kid fun zone to a fearless fun zone for those adrenaline-seeking junkies. They have the first-ever indoor surf simulator in Hong Kong and an infinity pool at their Riptide area which has majestic ocean views.

They’ve launched a starry double feature Friday at the beginning of this year where you can enjoy Hollywood blockbusters on floating tubes at their state-of-the-art aquatic theatre or from beach chairs at the shore. It is priced at HK$88 and you can enjoy both the movie and exceptional rides on a Friday evening.

Their “Get Closer to the Animals” programme is another side of their business which successfully marries conservation work with entertaining education. You can visit delightful red pandas inside its living enclosure but also understand the daily husbandry work of the park’s keepers. And what is the best way to conserve them in the wild.

They are also offering starry summit glamping at the moment. The focus is on glamorous camping with an air-conditioned tent, and private showers and all necessities are taken care of by the staff. A Thai feast is served at Ginger Grill whilst breakfast is served at Bayview restaurant. The whole stay includes special programs such as Sunrise Moment, South Pole Spectacular Night Tour, and Sea Lion Meet and Greet.

There is the Island South Discovery programme supported by the Tourism Commission where you are offered unique itineraries to learn more about the Southern District of Hong Kong, the fishing traditions and the ecological landscape of the surrounding area. It is extremely child-friendly and shows the importance of the educational work which often happens behind the scenes. It is all part of their Ocean Park Academy which opened in 2004 and aims to foster greater learning and understanding of the subjects of nature and conservation.

They are closely linked with two of the best hotels in Hong Kong: Hong Kong Ocean Park Marriott Hotel and The Fullerton Ocean Park Hotel Hong Kong. They are both only a short walk from the marine park and have numerous world-class dining options from sumptuous buffets to authentic Singaporean cuisine. With the latter, it is the first Fullerton resort worldwide and all 425 well-sized guest rooms have breathtaking ocean views overlooking the South China Sea.

What about the future of the park? They are not resting on their laurels. They have three new zones in development. The lower park will be a major new hub for retail, dining and entertainment. Whilst at the summit of the park will be an adventure and a wellness zone. Unbelievably, the park is a mere 6 minutes away by underground from the city centre. With their lofty goals set for the coming years, they will certainly remain a major resort and leisure destination with a strong focus on conservation and education in Southeast Asia.

All-day packages are currently: Adult ticket at HK$360; Child ticket at HK$216. Do check their website for the latest information on what special events they are offering.

https://www.oceanpark.com.hk/en

Heritage meets architecture at Adaaran Prestige Vadoo

Adaaran Prestige Vadoo which has been part of the Aitken Spence portfolio of luxury hotels in the Maldives since 2009, has some interesting history which we only learned about when we visited this island resort.

The resort houses 50 luxury water villas featuring classic Japanese interior design. It is this connection to Japanese culture that we found most fascinating.

Aerial view of main bar at Adaaran Prestige Vadoo
Aerial view of main bar at Adaaran Prestige Vadoo

The resort now known as Adaaran Prestige Vadoo was originally built by Japanese owners in the late 1980s. One of the original water bungalows from this time is said to be the oldest in the Maldives. This bungalow, with its Japanese architecture mostly preserved, now serves as the island’s Mandara spa where guests can book a range of holistic treatments including couples massages.

Perhaps to further preserve this Japanese heritage, one of the highlights of this resort is the upscale Kitajima restaurant, one of four main dining choices available.

The menu at Kitajima features standard Japanese cuisine favourites ranging from fresh sushi to flavourful tempura. It is, however, the decor and the intimate dining experience that it creates which made this restaurant stand out for us.

Intimate and luxurious overwater villas

When visiting Adaaran Prestige Vadoo, you can choose your preferred view from their range of Sunset and Sunrise Villas. Both types of villas are the same except (obviously) for the different views.

Four honeymoon villas are larger and offer more space and come with more amenities for that extra special and luxurious touch.

Sunrise villa at Adaaran Prestige Vadoo
Sunrise villa at Adaaran Prestige Vadoo

Japanese design influence runs throughout the villa interiors. This influence creates a calming symmetry and harmony between the natural outdoor environment and the indoor space.

Matted curtains, bamboo window shades, and wooden floors were design highlights that stood out for us. In addition, high-quality materials and furniture add to the feeling of luxury. Another highlight for us was the pillow menu (available on request).

Sunrise Villa bathroom design at Adaaran Prestige Vadoo
Sunrise Villa bathroom design at Adaaran Prestige Vadoo

Each of the bungalows comes with its own sun deck, plunge pool and jacuzzi. A unique design feature we liked was the bathroom doubling as a separate lounge area, complete with a sofa, minibar, satellite TV and a glass bottom floor for observing random marine life below.

The spacious villas have decent sound insulation while bamboo and thatched fences surround each dwelling, further enhancing the feeling of privacy without obstructing the views of the ocean.

Breakfast-in-bed or a floating breakfast in the outdoor (and private) plunge pool are some of the in-villa dining options available in your hideaway. This can all be arranged through butlers assigned to each villa. These approachable and attentive individuals work day and night to help create a more intimate and personalised experience for guests on the premium all-inclusive package.

Floating breakfast in overwater villa with lagoon views
Floating breakfast in overwater villa with lagoon views

Guests on this package also enjoy an elevated level of service and other extras such as sparkling wine on arrival, a complimentary minibar replenished daily, fresh fruit bowls and evening canapés.

Dining options

We have mentioned Kitajama, the speciality Japanese restaurant earlier.

Varifalhu, the main restaurant, offers a mini buffet of Indian dishes. A four-course set menu features à la carte options that change daily. Kakuni is their dedicated seafood beach restaurant with a barefoot dining appeal.

There are two outdoor bars (Dhoni and Kandholi) that serve drinks and offer light refreshments throughout the day. However, it is the chance to relax and enjoy panoramic views that really makes them appealing spots to hang out on the island.

Main bar with wood and bamboo themed furniture
Main bar with wood and bamboo themed furniture

To capture the magical feeling of romance, private dinners on the beach can be curated by butlers (on request). Couples can watch the sunset and listen to the sounds of the ocean while enjoying a special menu featuring an amalgamation of chef-choice dishes.

During our visit, we noticed that the majority of guests were honeymooners and couples from the Middle East and East Asia. This informs the resort’s strong preference that guests dress in a manner that is respectful to other guests.

Activities at Adaaran Prestige Vadoo

In our opinion, this is a resort where you want to really just relax and enjoy the feeling of disconnecting from the world for a few days.

Adaaran Prestige Vadoo A Taste of The Maldives
View of lagoon from white sandy beach at Adaaran Prestige Vadoo

For guests with a bit of curiosity though, excursions available at Adaaran Prestige Vadoo include walking tours of historical attractions and local markets in Malé, the capital city and tours to a local island where guests can experience non-resort life in the Maldives.

For an island of this size, we were surprised at the number of watersports available. For guests who prefer to take things easier, there is also a menu of water-based activities such as morning and sunset fishing, a dolphin safari, sunset dhoni cruises and a sandbank picnic and lunch. All of these are weather (and time of year) dependent and should be booked in advance.

A personal highlight of our stay was being able to step down from our water villa’s private stairway and straight into the lagoon for a relaxing swim in the clear water. Although not a snorkelling paradise, there was some marine life around to keep us entertained around the house reef.

We also enjoyed daily walks around the island including lush and beautifully landscaped gardens that are a theme at Aitken Spence properties.

Adaaran Prestige Vadoo presents couples with an opportunity for a quick retreat and a chance to enjoy a taste of the Maldives.

Escape to paradise and soothe your soul in the Maldives with our latest travel feature. Discover breathtaking landscapes and luxurious retreats in our article on the House of Coco website.

How to get there

A 15-20 minute speedboat transfer can be arranged by the resort from Malé International Airport.

For more information about their half-board, all-inclusive and premium all-inclusive packages at Adaaran Prestige Vadoo, visit adaaran.com/prestigevadoo.

Are you thinking about booking a romantic getaway? It’s a chance to unwind as a couple, to remind yourselves of why you’re together, or to create beautiful memories in beautiful places. Winter-time often provides exactly the backdrop that’s required for such a break – and there are plenty of locations that jump out as being suited to the season. Whether you’re heading away this winter or the next one, and whether you’re going to pack a diamond engagement ring or not, it’s worth assessing your options.

Let’s take a look at a few of the best.

Santorini, Greece

When it comes to picture-perfect Mediterranean backdrops, it’s difficult to beat Santorini. It’s the sort of coastal, white-walled location that looks absolutely glorious during summer – but it’s attractive during winter, too, with thinner crowds and more reasonably-priced accomodation. You should certainly make time to enjoy fresh-caught fish at one of the local taverns.

Puglia, Italy

This little corner of Italy is celebrated for its history and its local produce. If you’re looking to enjoy some classic Italian seafood beside the Adriatic, then this is the place to do it. There’s also a wealth of gorgeous beaches nearby, too. Of course, this is an ancient and deeply historied part of the world, with a wealth of striking architecture and historic landmarks to uncover, too. Baroque cathedrals and museums abound, such that you can spend every day of your travels uncovering Italy’s incredible past.

Zambia

A safari trip often makes for the holiday of a lifetime. They provide a chance to explore the real, wild side of Africa. Zambia in particular is home to some of the continent’s best trips. The most striking locations in the country are undoubedly the waterfalls, which, understandably enough, tend to be at their most spectacular during wet season. Make the time to visit the astonishing Victoria Falls, while you’re there.

New Zealand

Ever since Peter Jackson chose New Zealand as the backdrop for his Lord of the Rings trilogy, the countryside here has proven immensely popular, especially for those looking for an outdoor holiday. Unblemished glaciers, outdoor lakes, forests and mountain ranges all provide a chance to enjoy the natural world at its most wild and untamed.

Amalfi Coast, Italy

Heading back to Europe, there’s the legendary Amalfi coast. This is a relatively short stretch of coastline near to the Gulf of Salerno, which earned its status as a World Heritage Site in 1997. A trip to the coast tends to involve plenty of terraced restaurants and self-guided walking tours. It tends to be at its best in late summer and early spring, when the weather isn’t quite roasting, but still favourable.

What a stunning place to wake up, in the Lake District at Ees Wyke Country House Hotel looking over Esthwaite Water.

This country house is everything you would expect from the holiday home of Beatrix Potter. She even edited her book ‘The Tales of Peter Rabbit’ whilst holidaying at Ees Wyke. It is quaint, tranquil, and steeped in history. The views across the water lead to the Langdale Pikes and Grizedale Forest, both a feast for the eyes.

Once inside Ees Wyke it oozes old-fashioned luxury mixed with traditional English countryside simplicity. The ground floor hosts a couple of comfortable lounges to relax with a newspaper, a book, or binoculars – all of which can be found in the hotel. The restaurant is also located on the ground floor and has superb views across the gardens and fields to the lake.

There are nine unique bedrooms, each with their own individual feel, across the ground, first, and second floor. Most rooms have extraordinary views, and you can instantly see why artists and authors choose to stay here while painting and writing about The Lakes.

The View

The Bedrooms

All the bedrooms offer king sized or super-king sized beds, with an added little luxury of complimentary sherry to enjoy whilst admiring the views. All with pretty bedding and fluffy pillows!

The Food

If your main reason for staying at Ees Wyke is because you’ve heard that the Owner/Head Chef Richard produces good food, then you won’t be disappointed. Richard’s menus change daily with fresh, regional ingredients that are sourced from local butchers, farmers, and producers. You can expect traditional dishes that are freshly made to order, bursting with flavour, and beautifully presented. Richard has been winning awards for many years, which is testament to his exquisite cooking skills. Everything from his evening menu to his early morning breakfast is beyond exceptional.

During our stay the 3-course evening menu included a choice of:

Starter

Potted Morecambe Bay shrimps with toast and salad leaves

Course pork pate with toast, sundried tomato and garlic chutney

Main

Corn-fed guinea fowl breast with soft green peppercorn sauce and seasonal vegetables

Grilled lemon sole fillets with nut brown butter and herbs, with seasonal vegetables

Dessert

Summer pudding with Cointreau flavoured cream

Sticky toffee pudding with butterscotch sauce

If calmness, relaxation, peacefulness and exceptionally good food are what you’re looking for, Ees Wyke Country House Hotel easily covers all these needs.

Prices start from £180 to £225 per night for Bed & Breakfast depending on room occupancy and date of stay. A 3-course dinner is priced at £45.95 per person. No pets allowed and children over 12 only.

Visit Ees Wyke Country House Hotel to book a room.