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Barcelona is a style sanctuary, filled with effortlessly cool tapas bars and even cooler locals. For our next Spanish escapade, Team Coco is packing flirty flamenco-inspired dresses, artisanal pieces and statement accessories to really bring the heat in Barcelona.

  1. White Knitted Hat by r.l.e. available at https://www.rlehouse.com/
  2. Hanna Red Dress by Bronx & Banco available at DCEY https://www.dcey.co.uk/
  3. Orange Asymmetrical Top by Levi’s available at https://www.levi.com/
  4. Orange Phoebe reversible Palazzo Pants by Isabel Manns available at https://isabelmanns.com/
  5. Esparto Sandals by Mango available at https://shop.mango.com/
  6. Pink Good Vibes Neon Enamel Sphere Small Hoop Earrings by Missoma available at https://uk.missoma.com/
  7. Beige Leah Dress by Deveaux New York available at https://www.harrods.com/en-gb/
  8. Gold Mules by Marc Cain available at https://www.marc-cain.com/
  9. Green Cropped Blazer by Reineren available at https://www.instagram.com/reineren_official/
  10. Gold Neptune Sunglasses by Le Specs available at https://lespecs.com/
  11. White Recycled Bikini Top by Champion available at https://www.championstore.com/
  12. White Recycled Bikini Bottom by Champion available at https://www.championstore.com/
  13. Pink Rose Riot Scarf by Shaku available at https://shaku.co.uk/
  14. Pink Liberty Silk and Gold Bracelet by Le Colonel available at https://www.lecolonel.com/
  15. Brown Antonia Bag by Shrimps available at www.Shrimps.com
  16. Rainbow iPhone Case by PopSockets available at https://www.popsockets.co.uk/
  17. Brown Lulu Dress by Ilta Studios available at www.iltastudios.com
  18. Denim Cut-off Shorts by Aligne available at https://aligne.co/

A road trip to Sneaton Castle, Yorkshire in a sleek Audi Q5 Sportsback

Back in May our Editor in Chief Laura and I planed an EPIC four-day road trip & staycation around the historic county of Yorkshire. It was actually my first ever visit to Yorkshire and it did NOT disappoint!

The last stop on our four-day Coastal Yorkshire road trip was an overnight stay at the stunning Sneaton Castle (boy did we save the best until last!), from the dramatic grounds to the stunning interiors; which consisted of lots of cladding, beautiful stone and colourful prints to compliment the decor.

We spent one night at the castle which included a delicious evening meal, a soak in the freestanding tub and of course a quick visit to the properties Llamas!

We were both completely blown away by the beauty of the castle and it’s somewhere I’d love to head back to for a romantic getaway!

Plan your visit to Sneaton Castle!

Laura and I took separate cars as we had different journeys heading home, I had the pleasure of driving a majestic Audi Q5 Sportsback for the duration of our road trip, it was such a smooth, sleek drive (with over 500 miles covered from the start to end of our trip – I didn’t ever want the driving to end!).

The Q5 Sportback effortlessly combines family-friendly utility and sophisticated technology with great sporting appeal. Its coupé-like roof line underscores the sporty design language, while the quattro on demand all-wheel drive ensures a fascinating drive every time.

Discover the Audi Q5 Sportsback here!

After an incredible trip exploring Yorkshire, I can’t wait to return one day – if you’re thinking of planning a trip, do it! You won’t regret it!… And if you’re looking for the dream road trip car then look no further than the Audi Q5!

Hayley x

Lindos Grand Resort & Spa is perched just above Vlycha Bay, one of the most peaceful pebble beaches in Rhodes. On arrival to the hotel, guests are welcomed into a bright lobby and outside terrace with soaring views of brilliant skies and large infinity pool, one of the largest on the island – which takes eyes directly to a vast stretch of the Aegean beyond. The property is the fifth and latest from the Minettos family owned high-end chain, Lindos Hotels Group.

Chic, contemporary and sparkling white, the five-star hotel offers an ethereal feel on the hilltop with plenty of room to roam, beautiful manicured gardens to unwind in and a tranquil spa. Rooms and suites are modern and relaxed, with hugely comfortable beds, a muted colour palette in the well-appointed bathrooms and floor to ceiling windows allowing the natural light to stream into the space at sunset. For the majority of the 189 rooms at the adults-only hotel, the turquoise private pool that curves around each offers a complete slice of heaven. The rooms are designed in such a way that guests feel like they are in their own secluded villa with complete privacy but yet are just moments from the hotel’s sensational restaurants, two buzzy bars and expert concierge services.

The dining at Lindos Grand Resort & Spa is famed throughout the island and is the envy of other hotels in the region. The key component being the skill and artistry of Executive Chef Stavros Manousakis. Chef Manousakis has been a part of Lindos for 11 years, truly a family affair. He has travelled extensively and works with local children in addition to his work at the hotel to ignite a passion for all things culinary.

Three à la carte restaurants offer an exquisite variety of cuisine and there are plans to open other concepts in 2022. There is the Mediterranean-focused Acqua e Sale and the fine dining Greek Restaurant, Thalatta which explores the rich culinary heritage of the Dodecanese Islands. Time honoured recipes are given new life thanks to the creative flair of the expert chefs in the hotel’s kitchen. Fresh produce from the island is cooked to perfection and all washed down with wines so local and golden, it is unlikely you will ever sip them again, unless you sought them out. The Japanese Yume Mou is an omakase experience that is simply breathtaking with the cobalt sea in the foreground and the chef preparing delicious morsels in front of your eyes. Chef Manousakis will take epicureans through each exquisite dish and his culinary journey as to why each ingredient is served on the special menu, from dashi to Red Snapper, sushi and fresh oysters. The main restaurant, Terra Mare offers views of the ocean and serves up breakfast from 5:30am – 11:30am, for those early birds or late risers and a buffet-style, laid-back dining experience in the evening. Guests also have the option to order breakfast directly to the room, at a small surcharge.

Just a stone’s throw from the relaxed vibe around the pool and chilled music at Atmos Lounge is Vlycha Beach where there is a dedicated section of hotel-owned loungers just by the lapping shores. If a spot of culture away from the hotel is on the agenda, the property is just minutes from Lindos Old Town located at the foot of the acropolis that dates back to 300BC. To burn off all the delectable food served by the charismatic Chef Manousakis, guests can ascend to the top of the hilltop and enjoy otherworldly views of the Aegean, as far as the eye can see that will truly make your soul soar.

Also not to be missed is the Medieval City of Rhodes which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved and largest inhabited medieval towns in Europe. Visitors can immerse themselves in a bygone age and explore the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes, get lost along quaint cobbled streets, dine in the flower-filled gardens of unassuming restaurants such as the superb Marco Polo Mansion and browse artisan market stalls selling local wears. Back at the hotel, Lindos Grand will be hosting Ceramic and Cooking classes this summer and offering guests the chance to immerse themselves in the local culture of Rhodes and return home with a traditional Grecian skill.

This year, all roads are leading to Rhodes.

Rates for Lindos Grand Resort & Spa start from £200 a night on a B&B basis staying in a Deluxe Double Room, Garden View. To book, visit www.lindosgrand.com

Nestled in a nook off Colmore Row in the centre of Birmingham is the resplendent and historic Grand Hotel. Seeped in old school glamour this iconic Grade II listed building has been given a new lease of life. Originally built in 1879, the hotel has hosted glitterati and heads of state. In its heyday guests included King George VI, Charlie Chaplin, Malcom X and Winston Churchill. By 2002 it had lost its sparkle and closed its doors. Step in Robert Angell International, who for the past 18 years have been working behind the scenes to deliver a £50 million restoration and refurbishment. 45,000 man hours later and the results are astonishing. The Grand Birmingham is the city’s jewel in the crown.

The hotel has retained a mix of French Renaissance, Victorian and Art Deco features, while successfully juxtaposing modern artwork and design features. The magnificent grand staircase sweeps through the centre of the building while fabulous chandeliers and mosaic tiles add to the style and character.

The service is friendly, upon arrival I’m greeted by front of house and reception staff who show me to my room and give me the low down on the facilities. The team are passionate and knowledgeable about the hotel and its history.

Bedrooms are light and airy, styled in muted cream, brown and black with views overlooking St Phillips Cathedral. The vintage phone and mirrored headboard add a retro splash to what essentially feels like a contemporary space.

Madeleine is perfect for cocktails and pre-dinner drinks. Dark panelling flanks the walls, large arched windows and twinkly bauble chandeliers add to the intimate atmosphere. Soft, velvet sofas and chairs are scattered around the bar area. Punches of ruby red, pastel pink and navy accents give it a luxurious chic vibe. Across one side of the room is a full-length bar, serving small plates and an extensive choice of cocktails. I tried the Madeleine Martini, a raspberry and pineapple alternative to the classic. It comes with what looks like a bubble bath topping and is totally Instagramable.

Downstairs is basement brasserie, Isaacs, the hotel’s New York style eatery. Green and white tiled walls surround leather diner style booths and tables. There’s a buzzing atmosphere as guests tuck into classic American dishes. The menu features fresh seafood, steaks and Stateside staples like ribs, hot dogs, cod and grits. Breakfast is served here and there’s an extensive choice of buffet options, eggs or for the hungrier a full English.

The secret garden courtyard on the ground floor is a hidden gem. Cute fairy lights and climber plants give it a roof top bar feel and I can tell that this area will be a big hit with guests in the summer.

The hotel is in the heart of the city, just a short walk from New Street Station and the Bullring shopping centre making it a great base for anyone looking to explore the UK’s second city. Host of this summer’s Commonwealth Games and home to some fabulous bars and restaurants, Birmingham and The Grand are well worth a visit.

Rooms start at £129 per night, visit The Grand Birmingham

Sofitel London St James has teamed up with Balmain and Z2 Comics to celebrate the new Balmain Dreams OR book with a Fashion Afternoon Tea. Team Coco Fashion Editor Hannah Tan-Gillies attended the exclusive media preview to check out the US$50,000 Balmain Dreams 10: OR edition, which celebrates Olivier Rousteing’s most iconic runway creations in the last decade.

The Afternoon Tea is served in the hotel’s stylish Rose Lounge from and is available from 3 February to 3 March. To celebrate the occasion, the Rose Lounge has been decked out in striking illustrations from the Balmain Book, which is currently on a world tour with Z2 Comics and Sofitel. Balmain Dreams OR is available via digital tablets at the lounge, but we got to see the striking US$50,000 Balmain suitcase and some of the iconic Balmain pieces that were featured, in vibrant colour, on the pages of the book.

Crafted by Head Pastry Chef Jamie Warley, the Fashion Afternoon Tea connects guests with the traditional French flavours in homage to the heritage of Balmain Creative Director Olivier Rousteing. Much like Olivier moves away from classic runway tropes, so does Sofitel’s Fashion Afternoon Tea move away from classic finger sandwiches.

Pastries inspired by Olivier’s bold and colourful runway creations

Instead, it offers delicious savoury dishes like leek and potato soup, pulled pork gyoza with soya and ginger and truffle Gougères. The sweet courses, of which the Citrus Choux Bun, Praline and Caramel Delice and Cappuccino Macaron were all highlights, were inspired thematically by Rousteing’s sketches in the book.

Sofitel St James is the first hotel to host the Fashion Afternoon Tea which will be moving to other Sofitel locations in Dubai, Singapore and Seoul.

The Fashion Afternoon Tea will be served from Thursday to Monday in the Rose Lounge, 12pm to 4pm, from 3rd Feb to 3rd Mar at £55 per person or £65 per person including a glass of Champagne. To book, please visit The Rose Lounge at Sofitel London St James.

As Spain has eased entry requirements for UK children and teenagers aged between 12 and 17, travel experts HolidayPirates are excited to share five reasons to visit beautiful Valencia this spring.

Valencia, Spain’s third-largest city, is on the beach, is a design-forward hub and is beautifully melded to its Mediterranean roots, making it perfect for a short city break or as a base for exploring the coastal plains and striking mountainous areas of the Valencian region. It is also blessed with a good year-round climate and is the birthplace of paella.

1. World Design Capital of 2022

Valencia is the eighth city to have been designated World Design Capital and proudly holds the accolade in 2022, which brings with it a full year of cultural events and exhibitions. The city has spent several decades building its reputation as a creative hub and visitors can enjoy the work of architects, interior designers, illustrators and graphic design across the city.

Impressive urban infrastructures coexist harmoniously with the natural and built environment and the city has become a leading example of design in public policy to effect social change. Visit the Turia Gardens, the Central Market, the City of Arts and Sciences to see some of the most striking examples of Valencia’s unique take on its Mediterranean heritage.

The city has also been chosen by the EU to be 2022’s co-capital of smart tourism for its work on sustainability, inclusivity and its respect for its citizens and cultural heritage.

2. Voted the best city to live in

According to Expat City Ranking 2020, Valencia has been named the best city to live in the entire world by expatriates of more than five different nationalities. With 320 sunny days a year, many beautiful beaches to choose from and plenty of leisure options, it truly deserves this nomination. The city is bike-friendly and provides the option to tour around on bikes, which helps with fitness. In addition, the city has amazing and diverse gastronomy offering that will please even the pickiest tastebuds.

3. Do not miss Las Fallas which returns in March

Valencia’s highly anticipated Las Fallas festival will be back in the streets this March. The festival, which always takes place in March, due to the pandemic last year, was shortened and celebrated in September, however it is coming back bigger and louder. The festival, which dates to the 18th century was inscribed in the UNESCO Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2016 and takes place in March. Each year residents make hundreds of colourful puppet-like sculptures from wooden, cardboard, or papier-mâché known as ninots, which are burned in a massive bonfire while the city’s sky is filled with fireworks. The festival which combines Valencia’s tradition, satire and art is a must-see once in a lifetime event.

4. Sustainable, high-end gastronomy and the birthplace of paella

As the birthplace of paella, and a centre of excellence when it comes to showcasing local produce, visitors need to sample the city’s most famous and international dish. Valencian chefs banded together a few years ago to create Wikipaella, to police paella around the world. Valencian-made paella will either be made with rice and vegetables and animalprotein such as chickenor rabbit, OR, the seafood version is made with fresh produce from the Mediterranean. Visitors will not be short of high-end dining options either. Locally-sourced produce, served locally with flair makes Valencia a foodie paradise. The Michelin Guide for 2022 gave three new stars to restaurants in the city, which join four others.

5. The year of Berlanga – the great chronicler of Spanish society

Valencia is in the midst of celebrating the 100th anniversary of the birth of Luis García Berlanga, in the city. Heralded as Spain’s greatest ever film director – Berlanga was an irritant to fascist dictator Francisco Franco and his regime – when many others in the artistic community fled the country.

His legacy includes the films The Executioner (1963), a comedy of manners satirising capital punishment; Plácido (1962), a black comedy mocking false piety, based on real events where a small town’s grandee’s each adopt a poor person for Christmas eve and Welcome, Mister Marshall! (1953), which lampooned Spanish hopes for a slice of US money to rebuild Europe after WW2. They are films which are useful insights into Spain’s tumultuous 20th century. Visitors can join a guided tour which outlines how Valencia influenced his filmmaking, and takes in locations from Berlanga’s childhood, the historic district and his personal relationship with the world of the Fallas Festival.

Nothing keeps Leila Gregory down for long, and after shuttering one business, Leila pulled herself up by her bootstraps and leveraged her 30-year strong retail experience to open her own independent brand Belle Modelle.

Since 2014, Belle Modelle has gone from strength to strength selling a variety of colourful accessories and homeware products; and while many other businesses reeled from the pandemic, Gregory took her business to the next level by launching her very first colourful fashion line last year.

On the inspiration behind Belle Modelle, Leila says: “My mission is to try and inspire real women to embrace who they are and experiment with clothing that is more colourful than they might usually wear.” Indeed, one look at Belle Modelle’s joyful knitwear pieces and you will immediately understand the brand’s raison d’être, and the vibrant spirit of the woman who created it.

In this latest Girl Bosses of Great Britain interview, we catch up with the bubbly, stylish and inspirational Leila and chat about fashion, sustainability and the secret to running your own business.

She says,Running your own business is not an easy ride, you may wonder why you even started, but that burning desire inside will keep you going. Be sure to learn from your mistakes — it’s not a bad thing to fail as it’s part of becoming successful.”

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background, what inspired you to star Belle Modelle?

After leaving school, I found myself working in retail where I have remained for over 30 years. I started in the cosmetics industry, I have also worked in marketing, fashion and interiors. Having stepped out of retail to have a family, I then made the decision to embark on my very first business which combined a tearoom, cocktail lounge and restaurant with a space selling clothing and furniture. This was a huge personal learning curve as sadly the business had to close in less than a year – but nothing keeps me down for long! It wasn’t long before I was planning my next business venture with even more determination to succeed.

Could you tell us more about your mission to “inspire women of all shapes and sizes to embrace stylish, colourful clothing?”

As someone who has spent many years feeling conscious of my body shape, I feel that I can relate to women who may be unsure of stepping out of their comfort zone. I have found that wearing colour can truly make you feel more confident about how you look. So, my mission is to try and inspire real women to embrace who they are and experiment with clothing that is more colourful than they might usually wear.

Belle Modelle has been selling various accessories and homeware products since 2014 but 2021 marked the very first time that you have launched your own womenswear line. Why was 2021 the perfect time to launch?

Belle Modelle went from strength to strength and experienced rapid growth online during the lockdown. I also felt that I wanted to offer our customers something different to other retailers, so in 2021 the time seemed right to finally launch my own collection.

Could you tell us a bit more about the design inspiration behind your womenswear line?

I am well known to be a lover of stars so it seemed obvious that our first knitwear collection included stars in the designs. I also wanted a range that was comfortable, easy to wear and flattering to all shapes and sizes — and of course colourful!

How important is sustainability to Belle Modelle – could you tell us more about the concrete ways you are promoting sustainability in your business?

Belle Modelle monitors its supply chains to ensure that it upholds ethical and sustainable practices at every stage of the process. All our packaging is 100% recyclable. We still have a way to go on the sustainability front, but we are continually working on ways to improve and are keen to include more eco-friendly designs (like our super soft Chara bamboo scarves) in our collection.

Who is the Belle Modelle woman? Could you describe her in three words?

Bubbly, stylish, fun

What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced as an entrepreneur so far?

Brexit and the pandemic have made sourcing materials and keeping to delivery deadlines challenging. Lots has been out of our control but we are confident that this will ease in 2022.

What’s next for you and Belle Modelle? Any exciting new projects in the pipeline?

We are excited to be able to expand our own brand range, with a spring /summer collection that features lighter weight versions of our highly successful Knit 21 range. Summer knits, easy to wear trousers and pattern clashing dresses. We hope this year will also see us take on new brands and explore the possibility of opening at least one other store!

What advice do you have for those looking to take the leap and start their own businesses too?

My advice would be to take the risk and step out of your comfort zone! Success doesn’t happen overnight and you need to invest the time. Running your own business is not an easy ride, you may wonder why you even started, but that burning desire inside will keep you going. Be sure to learn from your mistakes — it’s not a bad thing to fail as it’s part of becoming successful.

WWW.BELLE-MODELLE.CO.UK

Pssst…I’m going to let you in on a secret. There’s a cool, new brand emerging on the jewellery scene that is about to blow up. D. Louise is a stylish collection of affordable, high-quality jewellery that you will own for ever. Gold jewellery is bang on trend right now, I’m a big fan of layering mine on a night out but find that after a couple of wears they take on a green tinge and can’t be worn again. D. Louise is a range of uniquely designed pieces that can be worn every day, in the shower or at the gym without tarnishing or turning green.

I’ve been crushing on this jewellery collection for some time and after chatting to founder Olivia Jenkins I think I may be crushing on her too. Olivia, aged 25 from London, set up the brand during the global pandemic after she became increasingly frustrated with her every day jewellery turning her skin green. After researching materials and road testing them herself, she started sourcing suppliers while juggling her full-time job in a media agency. D. Louise quickly took off and she quit her job in the city to throw herself into the business full-time. She said, “Like most people, the pandemic changed my job, I went from a very social role to being stuck at home. I felt like I had no purpose so when I spotted a gap in the jewellery market, I decided to just go for it”.

The range, which she has a hand in designing includes elegant rings, funky earrings, and bracelets as well as chic necklaces. It is made with a high-quality stainless steel, which is durable, 100% recyclable and affordable. It goes through a PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) coating process to add the gold plate. This method is ten times thicker than standard gold plating, making the finish on the jewellery resistant to corrosion and tarnishing, which means you can wear the pieces on the beach or in the pool and they’ll still look fabulous.

D. Louise is about wearing stylish jewellery every day that won’t break the bank, with prices ranging from £28 – £50. Olivia tells me that zodiac necklaces are going to be big this summer. Her biggest sellers are her bracelets, and I can see why, I love the Rolo Chain bracelet and the Chunky Monkey would make amazing arm candy at any pool party this summer.

Olivia named the brand after her Mum, Deborah Louise, who she sadly lost to cancer in 2017. She said, “I feel like a piece of my mum is in the business. It reminds me anything is possible and while life can be tough at times, you can create your own future”.

D. Louise is passionate about promoting sustainable fashion and offers a lifetime warranty on all pieces and any items which have manufacturing defects are recycled into new products. Olivia has ensured that not only is this ingrained into the product itself but is central to the brand. All packaging is FSC® certified, recyclable, and plastic free. The brand partners with ‘Get Mads’ who offset their carbon, remove plastic from the oceans and plant a tree with every order. D. Louise also donates a portion of profits to support the Oceanic Society, a non-profit organisation that works to improve ocean health.

Olivia’s vision is to be the world’s most well know stainless steel jewellery brand. I don’t think she’ll have to wait long, D. Louise ticks all the boxes from being affordable, high-quality, sustainable and super stylish.

D. Louise is offering all House of Coco readers 15% off their first purchase. Use the code 15%OFF at checkout

While it seems like all the months of 2021 have blurred into one, we’re dreaming of a time when we can once again visit all the beautiful destinations this planet has to offer. To (virtually) satiate your wanderlust, Team Coco has put together some of the world’s most exciting new hotel openings to inspire your next holiday… whenever that may be.

Pendry Park City (Utah, United States)

Nestled in the beautiful Canyons Village at Park City Mountain, the gorgeous ski-in, ski-out Pendry Park City will offer a modernist take on a traditional alpine lodge. Surrounded by vast mountain landscapes, the resort will boast warm, natural design elements that create a contemporary, open feel, and will feature 153 guestrooms, suites, and residences, each offering floor-to-ceiling windows and curated artwork.

Not to mention, both guests and locals alike will enjoy access to four distinct restaurants and bars, a deluxe Spa Pendry and fitness centre, a heated rooftop pool with a destination bar, Pinwheel Kids Club, and more than 7,000 square-feet of indoor event space.

Passalacqua (Lake Como, Italy)

Originally built in the 18th century by Count Andrea Lucini Passalacqua, Passalacqua is set on the shores of Lake Como and has hosted historic leaders from Napoleon Bonaparte to Winston Churchill.

Sister property to the iconic Grand Hotel Tremezzo, the stately, ultra-luxury mansion retreat will extend 24 stylish suites designed and curated by one of Italy’s most renowned hotelier families – Paolo, Antonella, and Valentina De Santis.

Committed to preserving its heritage, Passalacquawill showcase original features, including hidden passageways, centuries-old beamed suites in forgotten stables, and glasshouses with ancient fruit trees. Guests can enjoy the lakeside swimming pool and open-air gym set in the olive groves, vintage boat trips from the private dock, and partake in a variety of wellness and culinary experiences in the manicured gardens such as spa treatments, yoga sessions, farm-to-fork dining, and movies under the stars.

The Fullerton Ocean Park Hotel Hong Kong (Hong Kong)

Located in Hong Kong’s cool Southside district, which is home to the iconic Victoria Harbour and the city’s renowned Ocean Park, the eco-conscious oceanfront resort is the next much-anticipated international launch from The Fullerton Hotels and Resorts.

The luxury hotel – perfect for couples, friends, solo visitors, extended families, and business travellers – will offer 425 guest rooms and suites overlooking the South China Sea, including children-themed rooms and two signature suites with private pools. It will also offer four diverse restaurants, an outdoor infinity pool and kids’ lagoon pool, an indoor kids’ play zone, a luxury spa and fitness centre, and versatile indoor and outdoor meeting and event spaces, including a 5,600 square-feet pillar-free grand ballroom. Will this be Hong Kong’s most exciting new sustainable hotel – we certainly think so.

sly Berlin (Berlin, Germany)

Located in the city’s trendy Friedrichshain neighborhood, Berlin’s coolest new hotel will be housed across four modernised buildings, interconnected via inviting open courtyard spaces and a striking 2,368 square-foot greenhouse.

With 150 contemporary guestrooms and suites, some boasting private balconies, sly Berlin’s interiors will showcase a fusion of nature and urban culture, featuring solid oak wood, Italian serpentine stone, stainless steel, and Brutalist concrete touches. A lively restaurant and bar, complete with open kitchen and grill area, will be housed in the natural light of the greenhouse amid an abundance of greenery. The perfect place to enjoy an (almost alfresco) meal at the German capital.

Sommerro (Oslo, Norway)

The reincarnation of a restored 1930s landmark in Frogner, a historic neighbourhood in Oslo’s West End, Sommerro celebrates Norwegian design, fusing form and function as the city’s first hotel in an original Art Deco building.

The hotel is set to be Norway’s largest-ever preservation project, the hotel occupies the former headquarters of the capital city’s electrical company, Oslo Lysverker. Folowing a multi-million-dollar renovation, Somerro will become a modern tribute to local cultural heritage. Art buffs will enjoy the original artworks by celebrated Norwegian artist Per Krohg which will be featured throughout the hotel, with pieces including a giant wall fresco and a ceiling mural that nods to the building’s unique history.

A true community space, the 231-room property – which counts 56 residences – will also offer four restaurants, three bars, meeting and event spaces with capacity for up to 150 people, a 200-seat gilded theatre, a sprawling wellness paradise, and the city’s first year-round rooftop pool, sauna, terrace, and restaurant. There is surely no more stylish place to stay in Oslo than this.

Travellers planning to book a stay at any of these new hotels, or any of the other 650 participating properties across the Preferred Hotel Group portfolio, can access exclusive member rates, earn points, and take advantage of other value-rich immediate benefits during every eligible stay, while also accessing special members-only offers and unique partnerships, by joining I Prefer Hotel Rewards, the world’s largest points-based loyalty programme for independent hotels with more than 4 million travellers currently enrolled.

Unless you’re willing to splurge on the latest console, men are notoriously difficult to shop for during the holidays. Not to worry – because we’ve searched high and low to curate the very best men’s gifts so you can reward your beaus #TeamCoco style (but only if they’ve been nice!)

From the best men’s grooming products, versatile fashion finds, functional backpacks and the coolest new gadgets, our editors have done all the hard work for you by rounding up the top 18 best (fool-proof) gifts to wow your stylish beau this Christmas.

1. Archive V Neck Cable Jumper by Lyle & Scott available at https://www.lyleandscott.com/

2. Olive Cargo Trousers by Lyle & Scott available at https://www.lyleandscott.com/

3. Advanced Moisturiser by The Fellowship available art https://the-fellowship.co.uk/

4. Roll Top Backpack by Stubble & Co available at https://www.stubbleandco.com/

5. Blue and White Trainers by Valentino Garavani available at Harvey Nichols https://www.harveynichols.com/

6. Another 13 edt by Le Labo available at John Lewis https://www.johnlewis.com/

7. Santa Claus Airport Socks by Falke available at https://www.falke.com/

8. Everything Cream by Non Gender Specific available at https://www.nongenderspecific.com/

9. Oculus Quest 2 VR Headset available at John Lewis https://www.johnlewis.com/

10. Timex x Coca Cola Watch https://www.timex.co.uk/

11. Multi-coloured teddy Hoodie by Polo Ralph Lauren available at Harvey Nichols https://www.harveynichols.com/

12. All Black backpack by Stubble & Co available at https://www.stubbleandco.com/

13. Black Sunglasses by Larson & Jennings available at https://www.larssonjennings.com/

14. Robert’s Radio available at John Lewis https://www.johnlewis.com/

15. Navy Men’s Wool Runners by Allbirds available at https://www.allbirds.co.uk/

16. Green and Silver Cufflinks by Tateossian available at https://tateossian.com/

17. Bentley Green Chronomat Watch by Breitling available at https://www.breitling.com/

18. Men’s Pyjama Set from Hanro of Switzerland available at https://www.hanro.co.uk/