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Is Cleveland the culture capital of the Midwest?

The vibrant culture scene in Cleveland is a hidden gem even to discerning Americans from other states. Cleveland has been an industrial hub for growth in the 19th and 20th centuries due to its proximity to natural resources like iron and oil. It is also very well connected by rail and water routes, which aided in the city’s growth.

John D. Rockefeller, widely regarded as the wealthiest American of all time, settled in Cleveland. The city was the richest in the world during the Gilded Age. These industrialists poured their wealth into cultural philanthropic endeavours, which is the reason for the thriving arts and entertainment scene in Cleveland.

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

Top of the list for music lovers to visit is the rock hall. If you think the pyramid structure looks familiar, it is because it was designed by I.M. Pei, who famously designed the Louvre Museum.

The number of artists on display is breathtaking. Where else will you see Dolly Parton and Tupac Shakur in the same exhibition? Dolly famously wanted to withdraw herself from becoming an inductee in 2022 because she did not consider herself a rock artist. However, the hall responded by saying “Rock and roll has had deep roots in rhythm & blues and country music.”

They currently have a Hip Hop at 50 exhibition. Apart from fascinating memorabilia like LL Cool J’s signature four-finger ring, you’ll also learn about how hip-hop became a groundbreaking cultural phenomenon through the decades.

The visit is also a very immersive experience. You can stand beneath the Pink Floyd tour replica of The Wall. It was designed to mirror the Berlin performance of July 21, 1990.

The Garage on level 2 is where you can evoke the great rock bands of the past. You can jam with real instruments, be it drums, guitar, bass and keyboards. They have dedicated practice stations which will have video prompts to help you create your masterpiece.

Severance Music Center

Countless music lovers have voted Severance Hall as the most beautiful concert hall in the world. The mainly Art Deco design along with elements of Egyptian revival adds to a sense of Gilded Age grandeur.

It is home to the Cleveland Orchestra, informally part of the “Big Five” in the United States. The acoustics have been drastically improved since it first opened in 1931. Whilst the main focus is on classical music, they do offer more relaxed performances such as Amadeus Live. The full film is shown with live orchestral underscore.

They also run community programs that include free annual neighbourhood concerts. And they have a particularly dynamic musical program that celebrates the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Cleveland Museum of Art

The breadth and quality of the exhibits at this museum rival the very best of museums from capital cities of the world. Their sparkling 39,000-square-foot atrium has been featured in films like ‘Captain America: The Winter Soldier’.

In times of considerable global tensions, they’ve managed to curate a blockbuster Chinese art exhibition. China’s Southern Paradise: Treasures from the Lower Yangzi Delta have secured priceless artefacts from leading Chinese institutions.

There are numerous masterpieces on display including The Crucifixion of Saint Andrew by Caravaggio and The Burning of the Houses of Parliament by J.M.W. Turner. However, they particularly excel in their collection of Asian and African art.

In recent years, they’ve engaged with modern technology through their ARTLENS Gallery and app. You can create your own digital artwork with ArtLens Studio. The app allows you to interact with every artwork on display in the galleries and find more information about it. Everything that is viewed is saved on the app, so you can revisit the masterpieces even when you’ve returned home.

Cleveland History Center

There is no better place to learn about the importance of Cleveland than at this museum. The array of antique automobiles might be a surprise to some. Although Cleveland was a major automobile manufacturing hub until Henry Ford perfected assembly line production of cars in Michigan.

The antique planes are equally impressive. Northeast Ohio had one of the busiest and largest airports in the world throughout the 1920s and 1930s. The legendary National Air Races took place on the shores of Lake Erie for 20 innovative years until an unfortunate crash took place in 1949.

Currently, they have a Fashion After Dark temporary exhibition which explores the fashion styles of Clevelanders from the 19th century and beyond. With the adoption of gaslight and electricity in the 19th century, evening wear rose in prominence. Expect to see sparkling sequins, flowing silks and dazzling gemstones. It is the first time an exhibition has taken place in the period building that is The Hay-McKinney Mansion.

Museum of Contemporary Art Cleveland

If you are looking for progressive, modern art, this is the place to be. They are not a traditional art collecting museum. They are all about giving a voice to contemporary artists. Since its founding in 1968, they’ve worked with more than 2,000 artists. Often, it is the artist’s first solo show.

They currently have a fascinating exhibition, Don’t mind if I do. It takes the Japanese sushi conveyor belt concept (Kaitenzushi) but puts artwork instead of sushi on rotation. It is all about making artwork more accessible especially for people with access needs. It is about engaging with the artwork and touching all the objects.

They have regular workshops to engage with visitors such as a Day of the Dead workshop and a Pom-Pom workshop.

Flats East Bank Entertainment District

The gentrification of Cleveland is none more evident than in this district. What was once a series of abandoned warehouses has turned into a hub of cutting-edge restaurants, new hotels and residential apartments.

It has brought a hive of activity to the waterfront with the Greater Cleveland Aquarium and the general Nautica Entertainment Complex. It is a shining example of why Cleveland continues to captivate visitors with their countless cultural offerings.

Factbox

Downtown hotels start at around $150 per night.

Travellers can now fly direct to Cleveland from Dublin with Aer Lingus. The flight launched in May 2023 and operates four times a week, with connections from London Heathrow, Manchester, Edinburgh and Glasgow.

Passengers can carry out their pre-clearance in Dublin so that, on arrival at Cleveland airport, they can avoid immigration queues, quickly collect their luggage and start their Cleveland experience immediately.

For more information on flights, please visit –

https://www.aerlingus.com/

For more information on the region, please visit –

https://www.thisiscleveland.com/

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Tai Kwun: From a former police station to the cultural heart of Hong Kong

The contrast could not be greater. Tai Kwun in Hong Kong was formerly the much-loathed Central Police Station, Magistracy and Victoria Prison. It was a symbol of the colonial times back when Great Britain ruled Hong Kong. Nowadays, it has been revitalised and reopened since 2018 as Tai Kwun. A centre of excellence for heritage and arts.

Located at 10 Hollywood Road, Central. It is mere steps away from the likes of Lan Kwai Fong and the business district. It is a minor miracle, that this prime real estate wasn’t sold off to developers but instead turned into a cultural hub for locals and tourists. Tai Kwun Contemporary is a non-profit visual arts program and they try to curate five to eight exhibitions each year to highlight socially relevant issues. This September, they will present “Killing TV”. It is a fascinating, brand-new exhibition on how modern-day artists deploy, disrupt, and deconstruct television as a medium. The different artists involved in the exhibition explore the themes of identity, consumerism, and human connection in society. This is often displayed in a tongue-in-cheek manner.

The venue is also a wonderful performing arts centre. Throughout September, they have the “Chilled Steps” concert series. In their fourth year, they previously the focus was on jazz music. However, this year, they’ve expanded to cover pop, folk, Western and Chinese music. Between September and October, they are also offering free film screenings of classic teen films from the 1950s to the 1980s. The carefully curated films show the youth of Hong Kong from a bygone era as they embrace the increasing influence of Western culture.

A significant part of the Tai Kwun experience is about the heritage of the site. The former Central Police Station compound had more than 170 years of history. This is brought back to life for the audiences of today through interactive tours, heritage storytelling areas, eclectic education programmes and focused heritage exhibitions. The guided tours are 45 minutes long, in Cantonese, English or Putonghua. It runs twice a day Monday – Friday and three times a day during the weekends. It is also free of charge. They have an insightful behind-the-scenes online section on their website where you can visit the hidden gems of the site. You can see the secret underground passage to the Central Magistracy or see how the compound was once a WWII Air Raid Shelter.

Of course, it isn’t all about education and learning. Tai Kwun is also a great venue to savour gastronomic delights, sample innovative cocktails and shop at independent boutique stores. One of the most Instagrammable restaurants in Hong Kong is based in Tai Kwun, Madame Fù Grand Café Chinois. The refined, colonial decor is matched by tantalising dishes such as sautéed diced Angus beef with Yunnan chilli and garlic. Their free-flowing dim sum offering during lunchtime Monday – Thursday is always popular with locals and tourists alike. The art noveau-inspired, Dragonfly bar offers some of the most innovative cocktails in town. Expect to sip on the likes of Hi Lazies, which contains Irish whisky, pineapple, lime, pimento liqueur, orgeat and baby spinach. It might sound peculiar but their talented mixologists know how to serve up a winning concoction.

Numerous world-class art galleries are also based at Tai Kwun such as Kwai Fung Hin Art Gallery and Ora-Ora. The former focuses on 20th-century French art and modern and contemporary art in Asia. While the latter sell groundbreaking, modern art pieces from across the globe. There are also numerous boutique shops on offer such as Pap Studio which sells handmade Turkish-inspired lamps and Touch Ceramics which sells beautifully crafted and handmade ceramics and porcelains.

Although it only opened in 2018, Tai Kwun has rapidly developed into a must-visit destination for tourists when they visit Hong Kong.

For more information on Tai Kwun, please visit –

https://www.taikwun.hk/en/

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Hong Kong Heritage Museum: Championing Cantonese culture

We’ve mentioned in recent articles, how Hong Kong is rapidly developing into a cultural hub of the Far East. Most of the recent openings have been at the West Kowloon Cultural District. However, if you are prepared to travel a little further afield to Sha Tin, you’ll discover a hidden cultural gem that is a mecca for the Cantonese entertainment industry. Hong Kong Heritage Museum has been open since the year 2000 but hasn’t always featured on the tourist maps with visitors focusing on attractions in Hong Kong island or Kowloon.

The total exhibition area is around 7,500 square metres and includes five permanent galleries: the Jin Yong Gallery, the Cantonese Opera Heritage Hall, the T.T. Tsui Gallery of Chinese Art, the Chao Shao-an Gallery and the Children’s Discovery Gallery. On top of that, they have six thematic galleries that show pop-up exhibitions that highlight the diversity of Cantonese cultural offerings.

Their permanent exhibition: Hong Kong Pop 60+ is arguably one of their most popular permanent exhibitions. It highlights how the cultural melting pot that is Hong Kong has created a diverse environment for creativity to thrive. It covers iconic Hong Kong films like A Better Tomorrow and Infernal Affairs as well as Cantopop legends like Anita Mui and Leslie Cheung. The latter has his special exhibition at the moment: Miss You Much Leslie. It commemorates the 20th anniversary of the passing of superstar Leslie Cheung. The exhibition celebrates his tremendous achievement in music and film with countless stage costumes and vinyl records along with his staggering award collection.

Bruce Lee fans will be in seventh heaven with their Bruce Lee: a Timeless Classic and A Man Beyond the Ordinary: Bruce Lee pop-up exhibitions. It is the 50th anniversary of his iconic film ‘Enter the Dragon’ which made him a posthumous superstar and also his unfortunate passing away. The exhibition examines the legacy he has left behind in popular culture, whether it is in film, comics or animation. You might come across action figures based on Bruce Lee in various manifestations, his famous nunchaku or the iconic yellow jumpsuit. The exhibitions include large-scale multimedia and interactive programmes.

Hong Kong film buffs will be thrilled when they visit: Out of Thin Air: Hong Kong Film Arts & Costumes Exhibition. It celebrates the golden age of the Hong Kong film industry and explores the industry both in front of the camera and behind the scenes. It focuses on the importance of art and costume design in Hong Kong films. As you stroll through the exhibition, you’ll come across memorable costumes, props, set designs, drawing manuscripts, paraphernalia, videos and reconstructed scenes of workshops. Highlights include Brigitte Lin’s smuggler lady costume in Chungking Express (1994) and the set design drawing album of Shaw Brothers Studio. The latter was the largest film production company in Hong Kong. They operated from 1925 to 2011.

Although, not all their exhibitions are Hong Kong-focused. They recently held the blockbuster: Virtually Versailles exhibitions. Using cutting-edge digital technology, the exhibition transported you to the famed Hall of Mirrors. And they also had immersive bike installations where you can cycle around the scenic gardens of Versailles. Visitors got to virtually visit Marie-Antoinette’s bedchamber and discover the splendid history of the Palace. The exhibition was a roaring success and particularly popular with locals who were still cautious about travelling abroad post-COVID but still wanted a taste of foreign adventures.

They run public guided tours of the various exhibitions free of charge throughout the week. Most are presented in Cantonese but some are offered in English and Mandarin. They also have online programmes that let you experience snippets of the museum without having to head out to Sha Tin. This is a must-visit experience for those who are keen to learn more about Cantonese culture.

To find out more about Hong Kong Heritage Museum, please visit

https://hk.heritage.museum/en/web/hm/highlights.html

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Corpus Christi and Port Aransas: Traversing the Undiscovered Texas Coastline

Ask your average international tourist about the American coastline and the majority are going to mention California and Florida. However, if you question the well-travelled Americanophile, you are likely to hear mentions of Corpus Christi and Port Aransas on the Texas coastline. The breezy excitement of the former is the perfect foil for the laid-back island lifestyle of the latter.

Corpus Christi

A Texan city where you can enjoy the best of both worlds: a diverse city life and idyllic beaches that transport you to another world such as Padre Island National Seashore nearby which includes 70 miles of untouched beaches and wildlife habitat.

Experiencing the Texan coastal life

The city has played host to the Windsurfing World Championships due to the windy nature of the locality. This is ideal during the warmer months when you can enjoy a cooling breeze on a sunset cruise with the likes of Texas Tease. You can enjoy a leisurely cruise around Corpus Christi Bay on a 74-foot sightseeing boat. They can serve up high-quality dinner fare with local shrimp and oyster Rockefeller.

If you want to pilot your vessel innovatively, then you should consider Glow Row. It is a night-time kayaking experience guided by glowing lights which surround your transparent kayak. Their North Padre Island – Sunset Island route is ideal for beginners as the waters are very shallow there and it is relatively easy to spot some marine life.

Sightseeing ideas

There are a multitude of varied offerings in Corpus Christi. If you didn’t spot any aquatic creatures during your kayaking, you will at The Texas State Aquarium, the largest of its kind in Texas. They have an interactive stingray lagoon. You can spot reef sharks in their eye-catching curved aquarium with a 68-foot-long acrylic window, which is the longest in North America. You can enjoy an acrobatic show at Dolphin Bay. And the most fulfilling part is learning about their conservation work at their newly opened wildlife rescue center.

Nearby is the USS Lexington, which is a former WWII aircraft carrier and currently a naval museum. The most popular part is the flight deck with 20 historic aircraft on-board with the centrepiece being Maverick’s F-14 Tomcat jet from the original Top Gun film. There is plenty to experience below deck too from a flight operations tour to a fascinating late-night paranormal investigation.

You can savour the cowboy lifestyle by going on a visit to King Ranch. It is the largest ranch in the United States, bigger than the country of Luxembourg. You can go on a ranch tour where they explain the modern-day workings of their business. You can visit King Ranch Museum to appreciate the history of the brand and purchase the finest leather goods and outdoor gear at their saddle shop.

Where to eat

A visit to the institution that is Water Street Oyster Bar is a must. They’ve been serving Corpus Christi since 1983. They’ve recently expanded to oyster farming in Copano Bay nearby. Their menu is a seafood lover’s paradise with everything from wood-grilled oysters to shrimp picayune. Their sister restaurant, Elizabeth’s at the iconic Art Museum of South Texas is equally worth a visit. Their Mediterranean-inspired menu includes shakshuka and Italian torte for brunch. Whilst the museum houses fascinating temporary exhibitions such as the blockbuster, Collidoscope: De La Torre Brothers retro-perspective.

Port Aransas

Affectionately known as Port A by the locals. It is all about island life in this part of Texas, especially as the town has a population of less than 3,500.

Cruising to carting

You can also enjoy a cruising experience at Port A, but their offering is more geared towards the family with Red Dragon Pirate Cruise. There are interactive games on board but it is more about dolphin watching and admiring the scenic coastline. Another mode of transport that is popular with locals and tourist alike are the golf carts that are ubiquitous all over town. Visit at the right time of the year and you might spot their iconic Christmas golf cart parade, their Mardi Gras parade, their pirate parade or even their graduation parade. It is a great way to see the town highlights including Horace Caldwell Pier, its jetties and Roberts Point Park.

Embracing the wildlife

For bird-watchers, a visit to Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center is sheer heaven. You can observe hundreds of local and migratory birds in this wetland area. There are sheltered observation towers along with a 700-foot boardwalk. You can observe waterfowl, grebes, shorebirds and flaming pink Roseate Spoonbills, which is the Port A city bird. If you are lucky, you might even spot their resident alligator “Boots”. If you visit on certain days, they have free guided tours with binoculars provided for loan.

You get a feel of the passion locals have for their marine ecosystem by visiting the newly renovated Patton Education Center and Wetlands. There are interactive displays that help you understand the local marine life. Along with the Amos Rehabilitation Keep, which is all part of the campus of the University of Texas Marine Science Institute, you feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude that there might be hope for our seas. Rescued sea turtles are a major part of their project as the Gulf of Mexico is home to 5 of the 7 sea turtle species. You might spot the likes of Kemp’s ridley sea turtles or loggerhead sea turtles.

Dining the island life way

Fresh-from-the-sea ingredients in a laid-back environment are what you can expect at Port A. Fin’s Grill and Icehouse, which is a sister restaurant to the cruise company serves up classics from the region like a crispy shrimp PoBoy to unique creations like crab-stuffed gulf fish. They can all be washed down with a wide selection of margaritas. They have an elevated version that uses Dobel tequila and Gran Gala.

If you walked into Trout Street Bar & Grill, you might think fishing is a religion on the island. The menu offers everything from snapper to redfish to steelhead trout, all can be cooked in a variety of ways. There are historic photos of blue and white marlin being caught in the state and they offer you catch ’em we cook ’em service, which is also available at Fin’s Grill.

Finally, what better way to end your Texas coastal experience, than savouring a beachside shrimp boil around a bonfire, which can all be arranged with minimal fuss by the likes of Rollin’ Tide. Enjoying an authentic low country shrimp boil whilst admiring the sunset over Mustang Island with your feet in the sand is one of those little joys of life that will linger long in the memory.

https://www.visitcorpuschristi.com/

https://www.portaransas.org/

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Hong Kong Palace Museum: Discovering the treasures of the Forbidden City and beyond

The cultural scene in Hong Kong is thriving at the moment. That is in no small part due to the likes of the West Kowloon Cultural District. One of their latest museums to open is arguably its finest: Hong Kong Palace Museum. They house over 900 invaluable artefacts from The Palace Museum in Beijing. Many priceless pieces have never left the capital city or even been shown to the public. They have seven thematic galleries focusing on these items, general Chinese art and modern reinterpretation of Palace Museum culture. There are two galleries with temporary exhibitions showcasing art and treasures from other parts of the world. Currently, they have the blockbuster, Cartier and Women exhibition as well as Radiance: Ancient Gold from the Hong Kong Palace Museum Collection and the Mengdiexuan Collection.

The state-of-the-art building has been designed by Rocco Design Architects Associates Limited. With an exhibition space of 7,800 square metres, it has been designed to offer abundant rest areas both inside and outside the galleries. The facilities are barrier-free and particularly spacious, capable of handling substantial crowds during the holidays periods. You can observe throughout the building, they’ve used contemporary interpretations of traditional aesthetics. They’ve taken inspiration from the architecture of the Forbidden City but also taken care to blend in with Hong Kong’s urban skyline.

The themes of galleries are very well construed. For example, in gallery two, they have “From Dawn to Dusk: life in the Forbidden City”. You can follow the noteworthy events in the daily life of an emperor and other staff members in the palace. You will encounter what the emperor might be wearing on different occasions.

They don’t shy away from using modern technology in portraying the historical details of the period. Expect to see state-of-the-art video walls that will transport you back to the time of the Qing Dynasty. In gallery four, you’ll encounter very impressive portraits of Qing Emperors and Empresses. They’ve also created helpful timelines, where you can follow the imperial lineage. Even the main thematic galleries from one to seven are not expected to be permanent exhibitions and they will likely be rotated out after being on display for over a year.

Hong Kong locals will be particularly fascinated by gallery six, which explores “Private to Public: the history of Chinese art collecting in Hong Kong”. It explores the philanthropy of Hong Kong donors who have chosen to donate artwork they’ve privately collected, so the public can enjoy the beauty of these pieces. Often this has been to help promote Chinese culture at home and abroad. With each display, there is a handy note explaining the original owner of the artwork. For example, there is a wonderful oil on canvas painting of The Matilde moored in Hong Kong Harbour from the Anthony Hardy Collection.

Despite the historical nature of most of the artefacts, the museum is a very forward-thinking and progressive institution. This is very much in evidence in gallery seven “No boundaries: reinterpreting Palace Museum culture”. In this gallery space, they’ve asked six Hong Kong-based multimedia and interdisciplinary artists to create fresh and bespoke pieces of art installations for the museum which takes a fresh interpretation of the art and culture of the Forbidden City. The most impressive installation is without a doubt “A grandiose fanfare” by GayBird. The artwork fuses the atmosphere of Qing court music with modern festive performances through 31 audio channels and kinetic installations. It even includes a special sound installation performance every half an hour.

No modern-day museum is complete these days without world-class dining options and a well-stocked gift shop. Hong Kong Palace Museum has numerous options from the high-end King Lung Heen offering fine dining Cantonese cuisine to the very accessible Chinese teahouse, Xia. Their gift shop, ART EXPRESS by The Commercial Press is a treasure trove of Chinese cultural gift ideas from ornamental trinkets to coffee table books.

https://www.hkpm.org.hk/en/home

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City breaks

Ocean Park: the grande dame of Hong Kong theme parks continues to innovate

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

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Kimpton Aysla Mallorca, a must stay for art lovers

Culture vultures looking for a splash of authentic Mallorcan art can check into the Kimpton Aysla Mallorca and immerse themselves in their very own art exhibition. Situated in the town of Santa Ponsa, only 14 km from Palma de Mallorca and 20 minutes from its airport, guests of Kimpton Aysla Mallorca can enjoy its incredible on-site facilities while soaking up a plethora of outstanding artwork.

This stylish hotel, designed by architect Guillermo Reynés, opened its doors in October and is the backdrop to a Contemporary Art Collection commissioned by ABA ART LAB. The five-star property showcases 700 pieces of artwork from photography, sculptures, paintings and installations. Each piece has been created by a local artist and has been featured due to its Mediterranean, pure, timeless and cosmopolitan qualities. All the artists and designers stand out for their solid artistic career and their presence in various important collections of contemporary art.

Explore the hotel and you will stumble across stunning paintings, unique sculptures and installations that all weave organically into the fabric of the building. From the moment you enter the hotel your visual senses are stimulated as you are greeted by a showstopper piece, hanging behind the reception desk. Created by renowned Catalan artist, Regina Gimenez, ‘Door to light’, is a stunning textile mural using natural fibres, fabrics and wool from Mallorca transforming the space with neutral, white and toasted tones. With different textures, light layers and warm shades that create depth is easy to see why this takes pride of place in the lobby.

Throughout the hotel you will spot works from the likes of Mercedes Laguens, Antoni Pedraza and Bàrbara Juan. In each of the bedrooms the back wall displays a striking piece of art and the shelves are dotted with vases and sculptures bringing creativity to the heart of the property.

You’d imagine that so many pieces of artwork would bring chaos to the hotel aesthetic and design, but Reynes and ABA ART LAB have ensured that each work slots into the hotel design and is sympathetic to the space.

ABA ART LAB is an exhibition, curatorship and production of contemporary art company founded in September 2004, in Palma de Mallorca. They have their own exhibition and gallery space and curate, as well as produce some of the most important collections for private clients, companies and luxury brands.

This impressive property close to Palma, embraces the local art scene while combining the luxury and style that is synonymous with Kimpton, a must stay for design lovers.

To book a room visit Kimpton Aysla Mallorca prices start from €350 per night during winter and from €600 per night during summer season.

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Food & Drink

Tsaretta Spice: Bringing Indian tapas to Twickenham

Set at the end of the famous Church Street, Twickenham’s culinary destination, Tsaretta Spice is Indian but not like you’ve had before. A fixture in South West London’s vibrant dining scene, its a firm favourite with locals who come in their droves to feast on dishes that are inventive and bursting with flavour.

The unique menu focuses on “tapas style” small dishes that offer a distinctive twist on Indian food that allows you to sample more of what is an extensive and very impressive menu.

The choice can easily be overwhelming but fret not, the attentive staff are knowledgeable and will patiently explain dishes on the menu and recommend you their favourite cocktails. True to a traditional Indian dining experience your dining experience kicks off with the obligatory poppadoms that are served with home made chutney to rev up your appetite. The fresh mango lassi topped with dried pretty edible petals is as creamy as it is tasty, and is the perfect accompaniment to the entree.

To start with, go for the Prawns Tokri, a dish of the juiciest black tiger prawns that burst with ginger, garlic and curry leaf flavour. Before moving on to the next delight, ensure the tilapia fish used in the Punjabi fish fingers is prepared by defrosting frozen tilapia properly, enhancing its marination in lemon and carom. These cushion-soft delights melt in your mouth, showcasing the best of tilapia when carefully prepared.

A close second to that is the Punjabi fish fingers made from tilapia fish marinated in lemon and carom. They are cushion softy delights that literally melt in your mouth. After that tuck into the crispy chilli aubergine smothered in a lovely glaze, whilst a spicy, tangy sauce makes cauliflower come alive in the popular Manchurian cauliflower, one of Tsaretta Spice’s signature dishes.

Then move on to the mains and try the delicately spiced flavours of the succulent spice soaked goat curry. It’s slow cooked and falls off the bone; perfect for mopping up with the flaky peshwari naan bread that accompanies it. For a more savoury take, the spiced minced meat stuffed keema naan is also exquisite. Other favourites include the delicious Sharabi lamb shank, fragranced with fenugreek, chilli, mint and rum. Pair this with the hot off the cooker, mushroom and garlic pilau for a perfect combo.

The inspired cocktail menu offers a spicy twist on traditional cocktails. I dare you to not guzzle down the Spicy Pimpri Martini, an imaginative concoction of Tequila, Strawberry Puree, Elderflower cordial, prosecco and chilli. The coconut and lychee colada made of kraken rum, fresh coconut water, coconut cream and lychee is a refreshing palette cleanser that beautifully counterbalances the rich, spicy flavours.

The pudding menu certainly doesn’t disappoint. Round off a perfect evening with the rish and sticky gulab jamun (doughballs in a delicious sweet syrup) served with vanilla ice cream. And if you’re feeling extra indulgent the pimped up hot chocolate will have you in a merry mood and ready for the next part of your evening.

Tsaretta Spice, Twickenham

twickenham@tsarettaspice.com

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Cocktails in the City Summer Series

Imagine if 20 of London’s best bars were to pop up in a beautiful Georgian garden slap bang in the middle of London and bring you the al fresco cocktail experience of your dreams?

Well, you don’t have to imagine it anymore thanks to the genius team at Cocktails in the city who have transformed Bedford Square Garden into the ultimate summer cocktail paradise during August and September.

Food and Drink

Dubbed the London Summer series, it’s a delicious medley of street food, cocktails and live entertainment and a must-visit for fans of all things al fesco who want to make the most of the UK heatwave. Whatever you want from a drinks festival, Cocktails in the city deliver in abundance. Whilst you dawdle around the beautiful garden sampling the finest cocktails that London has to offer, you can also indulge in lip-smackingly delicious street food too. Gorge on the Bento box of your choice from Sticks ‘N’ Sushi or tuck into Cafe Pacificos’s Tacos and Burritos, loaded with a sensational guacamole and perfectly crunchy corn chips. And for those wanting something a bit more gourmet, Oficina 00’s show stopping pasta dishes which include fried ravioli and panko lasagna will have you queuing up for a second serving.

In addition to seriously bop-inducing live music, there is also the option of swaying your way around the garden courtesy of the silent disco . You can also learn a new skill (and also cool down) by taking part in the popular ice carving workshop, and the best part? You can use that ice in a bespoke cocktail that you can make yourself in the interactive cocktail making masterclass.

Music and Entertainment

If you’re able to drag yourself out of the comfy garden chairs, a game of shuffleboard where groups of up to 8 can participate definitely beckons for the more competitive amongst us whilst sparkly festival makeovers and pampering, courtesy of Chambord and Iris add a touch of glamour and sparkle to the day. As if that’s not enough, there are tasting stage talks aplenty throughout the day that you can pop into if you want to learn about different flavors, pick up some tips from the experts and be immersed into the world of cocktail making.

Get Involved

So if you’re in need of a summer plan, GRAB YOUR TICKETS now for the next installment of the Summer Series which is taking place 11th- 13th August. It’ll be a Summer Series with a twist, an ‘International Edition’ which promises to transport you around the globe with a diverse food and drinks offering. The best bit? If you attend you will have a chance to win a trip to St Lucia as well as other many other amazing prizes throughout the weekend!

Address: Bedford Square Gardens, Bedford Square, London, WC1B 3ES

Session times: 12.00 – 16.00 & 17.00 – 22.00

Ticket link: https://www.cocktailsinthecity.com/events/london-summer-series

Pricing: £20 per person admission- includes entry to the experience & your choice of welcome cocktail

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Adventures

A Guide to the Best Luxury Summer Stays

If you still haven’t managed to book a summer break, then take inspiration from our round-up of some of the best luxury stays. Whether you are looking to recharge your batteries, explore, bar-hop or dine out, we have some of the best places to enjoy a long weekend in style.

JW Marriot Venice Resort & Spa

Avoid the crowds at this luxury hideaway in Venice

Situated on the secluded private Venetian island of Isola delle Rose, travellers can choose to unwind at the JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa, a luxury five-star hotel that offers the perfect hideaway from the excitement of the city and busy crowds. New arrivals are transported by the hotel’s glamorous private water shuttle to the 40-acre resort, surrounded by charming views of the beautiful gardens and olive groves. Guests can choose to book from a choice of luxurious rooms, suites, and JW Retreats with private gardens, and enjoy award-winning cuisine, cooking classes and a choice of three pools. While those seeking a little downtime can head to the JW Venice Spa, a unique sanctuary that overlooks the Venice skyline.

Rates start from €450 per double room per night.

The Tivoli Marina Vilamoura Algarve Resort

Exclusive beach club access and benefits

The Tivoli Marina Vilamoura Algarve Resort has refurbished its Purobeach rooms with a design inspired by the beaches and sea of the Algarve. Guests staying in these rooms are offered free access to the beach club, Purobeach Vilamoura, along with a range of exclusive benefits including free sun loungers, towels and parasols, iced water, a welcome drink and after sun lotion plus a 10% discount on treatments at the Tivoli Spa Vilamoura. Purobeach features a programme of themed events and visiting DJs over the summer.

The club has two distinct zones – beachfront on the 5km long Praia de Vilamoura and poolside around the black tiled pool in the gardens of the resort, which is an adults only space. Guests can sunbathe either beachside or poolside on Balinese and Nomad style sun beds, enjoy cocktails brought to their loungers and dine on local seafood specialities to the relaxed sounds of the club’s DJs. At Purobeach poolside, guests can also join in morning yoga sessions and relax with a massage.

The 42 newly refurbished Purobeach rooms and suites are on the seventh floor of the hotel – each with a balcony or terrace. They have been decorated with soft tones and natural materials, inspired by the sand and the light on hot days, while the striped fabrics are a nod to the sails of the boats in the marina. Situated in the prime location of Vilamoura Marina the hotel is close to the shops and bars.

A stay at Tivoli Marina Vilamoura Algarve Resort in a Purobeach room in August, costs €600 per night (double occupancy) with breakfast and other Purobeach room benefits included.

Explore Madrid’s Golden Mile

The cosmopolitan, five-star BLESS hotel re-opened late last year in the heart of the glamorous Salamanca district, known as Madrid’s Golden Mile, following a major refurbishment with sensory interiors by Lazaro Rosa Violán. Each of the 111 rooms has unique details, with some retaining original Murano crystal features from the former hotel that occupied the historic building in the 1950s. Others have private terraces with hydromassage jacuzzis and anti-ageing sleep system technology.

Signature cocktails have been newly crafted by Libe’s expert mixologists and stylish events on the Picos Pardos Sky Lounge transform the hotel into a buzzy social hub for BLESS guests and Madrileños alike.

The hotel offers a range of experiences exclusively for guests, establishing it as a reference point in Madrid’s fashion, art and gastronomy scenes. Guests can make the most of their city break by immersing themselves in the capital’s cultural hotspots with a private five-hour tour of the Museo del Prado; Palacio Real and Madrid Antiguo, before enjoying a traditional lunch from the Executive Chef. Alternatively, the ‘BLESS Art Madrid’ tour of nearby private art collections allows guests to create their own piece of art with a local artist. Meanwhile an expert personal shopper and butler are on hand during the ‘BLESS Your Golden Mile’ experience, taking advantage of the Salamanca district’s many boutiques, followed by a relaxing in-room Bathology ritual.

Double rooms at the BLESS hotel are priced from £462 a night, room only.

Get a little dose of zen in Sicily

Having launched last summer, the10-hectare Grand Palladium Sicilia resort is the only five-star all-inclusive resort on the stunning island of Sicily. Perfect for a relaxing long weekend, the Zentropia Palladium Spa offers a complete wellness experience. Equipped with all the latest technology, it features a fabulous hydrotherapy zone, dry and humid sauna, chill-out zone, hot and cold hydromassage baths, and a sensation shower. Guests can treat themselves to a range of exclusive aesthetic treatments for the face and body and relaxing massages.

The magnificent white sand beach is just a stone’s throw away, while guests can also cool down in four spectacular pools within the resort. There is plenty to do to fill a weekend, as the resort is ideally situated for discovering both the city of Palermo and other coastal settlements such as Bagheria, Termini Imerese, and Monreale. Those who unwind best in nature will enjoy visiting the nearby Serra Guarneri nature reserve, whilst culture enthusiasts can head to the world-famous Mandralisca museum or cathedral in Cefalù.

Deluxe rooms are priced from £253.08 on an all-inclusive basis.

Mistral Beach Club, Split

Sundowners in Split

As part of the five-star Radisson Blu Resort & Spas, the Mistral Beach Club has become one of Split’s most sought after destinations, open to resort guests as well as outside visitors. This luxury beach club combines sunset and sundowners to make an unforgettable evening. International DJs and lounge music provide the perfect sound any time of the day.

Staying in the Radisson Blu Resort & Spas, however, comes with its own perks. Not only do guests get to enjoy luxurious facilities and an outstanding service within the resort grounds, they can make use of all the facilities Spalato Spa has to offer, dine in high-class restaurants, and explore the historical old town of Split, located only a stone’s throw away. A stroll through the romantic old town eases you into the Dalmatian way of life. Charming cafés offer foamy Cappuccinos in an oasis of calm within the lively city centre.

Rooms at the Radisson Blu Resort & Spas are from €309.13 per night

Lakeside Luxury for Less

Tucked inside the lower reaches of the Alps, the Northern Italian region of Trentino is famous for its Dolomites (UNESCO World Heritage Site), stunning landscapes, olive groves, rich history and picture-perfect historic towns and villages.

On the northern shore of Lake Garda in Trentino lies the beautiful town of Riva del Garda boasting a Mediterranean climate and filled to the brim with olive and lemon trees, palms, views of turquoise waters, and mountains for a majestic backdrop. This chic & stylish town with cobbled streets and historic buildings has great culinary offerings such as Al Volt, with seasonal tasting menus using local produce from across the region and is a short distance from the Dolomites mountain range, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The town is home to many activities such as sailing and windsurfing, paragliding, wine-tasting, hiking up soaring mountains, mountain biking, rock climbing & canyoning. A must-see natural attraction is picturesque 100-metre Varone waterfall.

Enjoy a 6-night stay at Hotel Portici Romantik & Wellness in Riva del Garda from £990 for two adults. The hotel is located in the picture-perfect historical centre of Riva del Garda and just moments from the crystalline waters of Lake Garda with soaring views of the mountains. Based on two adults sharing a double room, on bed and breakfast basis 21 – 27 August 2022.

Nourish your body and mind in Tuscany

Tucked away in between the pristine Serchio Valley and the Apennine Mountains, the Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco Resort & Spa is the perfect retreat to unwind away from the stress of everyday life. This small piece of paradise is located near the town of Barga in one of the most breathtaking locations in Italy and offers a variety of activities to care for the body and mind.

Guests can refresh in the sparkling waters of the hotel’s two pools or breathe in relaxation as they enjoy the spa’s extensive services, treatments, and amenities. The spa menu includes a special wine treatment using Tuscan grapes, a couples wine ritual that ignites the senses and treatments especially for men.

For those that would like to be a bit more active in their time away, there are a plethora of hiking paths, allowing visitors to be one with nature during a peaceful wander. The Garfagnana is known to be excellent for mountain biking and the many bike paths are perfect for exploration of the area on two wheels. There are also tours offered to discover all that is to see in the towns of Barga, Pian di Fiume, Guzzano, Isola Giovanna, Pieve di Controne and more and visitors can bring a packed picnic basket from the hotel’s kitchen to enjoy amidst the beautiful scenery.

To nourish the body, the hotel offers a special ‘From The Land To The Plate’ day-experience where you visit the local market with a trained chef to pick out the freshest ingredients and afterwards prepare a three-course meal to enjoy alongside some local wine.

Double room per night in Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco Resort & Spa is priced at £196

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