DUKES LONDON – an Edwardian country house in the heart of Mayfair – announces the launch of its first ever ‘Workcation Package’: offering guests a piece of fashionable St. James’s flair while working from home. With the government’s latest advice to ‘work from home if you can’, plenty are looking to combine a break with work and not everyone longs for the mountains or the beach. For those who instead hunger for city life, the new package is available as a supplement with bookings for Luxury Rooms, the Junior Suite, One-Bedroom Suites and the Duke of Clarence Suite – for an additional cost of £65.00 per person, per day.
Whether guests are travelling for business, seeking a private and spacious working environment with service on-tap, or are simply craving a luxury hotel experience in London while working remotely, nothing is too much trouble at DUKES where the team will ensure your working day is as comfortable and convenient as a regular day in the office.
The Workation Package includes a dedicated Work Butler who will assist every guests’ needs, including printing and scanning services, and a healthy lunchtime menu available in-room, in the Drawing Room or even in one of the neighbouring Royal parks as a working picnic. As well as various other services, workers can also kick back with a complimentary glass of bubbles at the end of each working day.
The DUKES Workcation Package includes:
Guaranteed early check in and check out
Bright room plenty of natural daylight with workstation – priority upgrade to suites (subject to availability)
Dedicated “Work Butler”
Unlimited complimentary water and soft drinks
Healthy working meal from the “Eat Well, Work Well Menu” (available In-Room, Drawing Room / Working Picnic)
Super-fast Wi-Fi
10x complimentary pages if printing is required
In-room tea and coffee making facilities
24-hour gym access
10% off food in all DUKES LONDON outlets: Drawing Room and DUKES Bar
DUKES signature notebook, DUKES pads and pens
Complimentary glass of bubbles at the end of working day
Barco click share facility, conference phone and flipchart available upon request
Nightly rates at DUKES LONDON in a DUKES room currently start from £183 inclusive of VAT and breakfast. For more information please call 020 7491 4840 or visit www.dukeshotel.com. All bookings made can be cancelled without penalty up to 7 days prior. Bookings that require alteration within 7 days of booking may be postponed and the hotel will do all it can to be as flexible as possible, understanding that the current situation is unpredictable.
The DUKES Workaction Package is available as a supplement to bedroom rates for Luxury Rooms and the following Suites: Junior Suite, One-Bedroom Suites and DUKES of Clarence Suite – for an additional cost of £65.00 per person, per day.
Who knew there was a helipad in London? Not me, that’s for sure. It’s in Battersea – in case you also didn’t know. I’m headed there to embark on my first UK helicopter ride with Apollo Air to take a trip to the New Forest for the day. Just jumping into my helicopter to head to the New Forest for lunch. I’m sorry, who am I? One boujie, enjoying-the-fine-things-in-life lady, that’s who.
I’m excited to take the helicopter ride; with many people feeling less comfortable flying on a plane under the current circumstances, Apollo Air’s private helicopter trips ensure you don’t have to miss out on a holiday. Here I am, ready to take a flight – without getting on a public plane or going through an airport. Life of luxury, indeed.
I’m in a group of five so we’re in line with the new ‘rule of six’, with the two pilots in the cockpit, which is sealed off from the rest of the helicopter. Ordinarily a mask would need to be worn when in a confined, inside space but the added benefit of Apollo Air is that it is a pioneer in COVID-free travel. The VIP helicopter company uses ACA; a bipolar ionisation technology which removes pathogens, making it an effective solution in ridding a space of 99.4 per cent of bacteria and viruses, including our lovely friend COVID-19.
The ions have the property to cluster around microparticles, gases, airborne mould spores, viruses and bacteria and as this occurs, a natural reaction occurs on the cell membrane surface of airborne biologicals where they remove the harmful biological of a hydrogen atom. In short: the pathogens are deactivated and quickly die. What does it mean? A safer, COVID-free journey and no need to wear a mask – although guests are more than welcome to do so, should they feel more comfortable.
We were able to see the air ion counter which allows you to check the ion count inside the aircraft and watching this definitely made me feel more secure. The Ionisation Purification System works by using positive and negative ions to improve the interior air quality and kill pathogens, both in the air and on surfaces. I personally wore a mask, simply to be extra safe due to vulnerable family members, but the innovative technology means that passengers are not required to wear masks or gloves and everyone can sit back and enjoy the journey at ease.
And what a journey. What would have been a two-hour drive took just thirty means, as we flew over London’s stunning citscape to begin with, before moving across green countryside. I was pointed in the direction of the Isle of Wight – whose tomatoes I’d soon be gorging upon – and it was incredible to see the view from up top. That’s definitely something you wouldn’t be able to spot had we taken the less exciting car option.
The Kitchen at Chewton Glen
Landing in Chewton Glen on a sunny day, with no plans other than to enjoy a delectable lunch – I could get used to this life. We’re exceptionally lucky as today, James Martin (yes, Saturday Kitchen’s favourite) is cooking for us. Previously a pastry chef at Chewton Glen’s The Kitchen, he returns to the country house hotel’s restaurant every so often, for anyone else who’s a fan and would like to be cooked by him (trust me, you do).
After some fan-girling and picture-taking with James, we sat down to eat. I cannot even begin to tell you the struggle of ordering from this menu: I wanted it all. It all came recommended too, but not in the ‘oh I’m the chef so of course it’s all good’ manner you often get in restaurants but in a genuine manner as some items were specials on the menu; others were flown in from suppliers the previous night or that morning. It was hard but I get there in the end, eventually opting for the sardines on toast; scallops with hazelnuts and a side of lobster mac ‘n’ cheese (how can one not?). The sardines on toast, one of the specials, are bittersweet: by far the best sardines on toast I’ve ever had, featuring those gorgeous Isle of Wight tomatoes. I genuinely fear having sardines on toast elsewhere as I can’t say I enjoy disappointment.
Painfully torn between the day’s boat fish, a gorgeous Dover sole drenched in garlic, lemon and herb butter and the grilled scallops, I am promised I won’t eat scallops the same as these anywhere else. Sold. Hand-dived Orkney King scallops in their shells, in a lemon and herb butter with hazelnuts, the light charcoal taste from the grill merges beautifully with the zesty lemon and sweet herb butter and the nuts add a delightful crunch. Our waitress even washes the scallop shells for us as our pilot, suggests they’ll make beautiful soap or jewellery dishes. The lobster mac ‘n’ cheese is a gooey, cheesey delight – though I could always do with a more powerful presence of lobster in this dish – and don’t worry, I always eat my greens; French beans in butter with black pepper in this case.
Dessert is a selection of the banana split, knickerbocker glory, strawberry meringue ‘bisous’ – all nods to childhood pudding nostalgia. Yet it is The Kitchen Apple which gets my attention; a sucker for a novelty dessert, this Pink Lady apple reveals vanilla ice cream when cracked.
Return Journey Home
Enjoying a long lunch in the sunshine, this lady of luxury is much at ease with today’s lifestyle and it is sad to admit we have to return home. Yet another bittersweet moment as we do have the novelty of flying back in style. I confess; I remove my mask for the return journey – if only to truly experience the clean and pathogen-free atmosphere Apollo Air Services provides and I must say, I know I was calmer than I’d have been on a communal flight. Our pilot apologises for the slight turbulence we encounter (through the headsets we are all wearing) but I comment that I probably experience more bumps and jolts in an Uber through Central London. We land back in Battersea and I feel like Dorothy after she’s lost her ruby slippers as I begin my walk home, my life of luxury over – for now.
As the ‘rule of six’ returns, Apollo Air’s private helicopter rides could be the answer to your prayers to fit in a few last trips to Europe or enjoy the simple staycation in style.
Steve Graham, Apollo Air Services, “We’re delighted to be the first helicopter charter company to have this ground-breaking technology on our aircraft, which will allow our clients to travel with peace of mind that they aren’t putting themselves at risk of the COVID virus.. We are seeing a growing demand for helicopter travel in the current landscape, where health and hygiene have become top priorities. Not only do helicopters provide a perfect, sealed bubble for clients to travel with close friends and family, without the need to visit busy airports and take public transport, but now we can also ensure the air they breathe whilst onboard is free of the virus.”
Destinations are finally opening up and are ready to be explored after months of lockdown; people are coming out of their homes with wide eyes, ready to dive back in. Hamburg, the sophisticated water city which is just a short plane ride from the UK, is the perfect place to start. At Hamburg’s heart lies Lake Alster and the lush oasis of parkland that hugs it. The Fontenay, is located on the shimmering shoreline and encapsulates lakeside luxury. The five-star hotel opened in March 2018 and represents the perfect balance of nature and urban living which is exquisitely found throughout the whole of Hamburg.
Hamburg is known for being a green city, and not without reason, 27% of the city comprises of natural areas that surround the lake at the heart. Designed to be a reflection of modern Hamburg and the natural urban shoreline, The Fontenay has a free-flowing, sculptural architecture, stylish and spacious interiors and luxury living spaces. The ‘Heaven Mirror’ fountain in front of the hotel, which weighs one hundred tonnes, greeted us and we were welcomed in the lobby by the gracious staff and accompanied to our room which had freshly made pink macarons on arrival and sweeping views of Lake Alster.
The lake provides a great way to get a different view of Hamburg. Locals set sail on picturesque wooden boats, canoes, pedal boats, rowing boats or even venetian gondolas. We jumped aboard for an Alster Boat Tour which circumnavigates the lake in just under an hour and gives a glimpse of the centre of the city. We meandered from the south of Lake Alster to the older parts of the city, taking in the imposing Rathaus and Gothic Revival church, Mahnmal St. Nikoli. The jewel in the crown is the Elbphilharmonie concert hall in the HafenCity quarter of Hamburg which showcases the maritime history of the city as well as its elegant present. The building resembles a hoisted sail and has a free viewing platform to see the working port on the Elbe River from above. The city’s port, known as the ‘Port of Dreams’, was the last stop for millions of migrants from Europe before traveling to America. Fascinating tales of discovering the New World can be heard at the Ballinstadt Emigration Museum. Rich historical tales of when Hamburg was the ‘Gateway to the World’ should not be missed.
After a full day of exploring, we were welcomed back to the hotel and enjoyed a drink at The Fontenay’s 500m² outdoor bar terrace with a 320° view of the Hamburg skyline. All five of Hamburg’s main churches, the inner and outer Lake Alster dotted with sailings boats, the Elbphilarmonie and the Town Hall can all be seen from the bar. Lakeside al fresco living continued with dinner in the grounds at Parkview restaurant. Foodie highlights included the chef’s sashimi, beef tartar, crustacean ravioli, all paired with the house white, named after the hotel itself. Not forgetting the sorbet we had with champagne in between courses. We learnt a new word after our feast – ‘fertig’ which in German means ‘full up’ or ‘completely finished’. We definitely were, and it was fantastic. As we indulged our full feeling, we enjoyed the restaurant views of the lake and watched locals trickle out to the water for an after dinner walk with loved ones, after months apart.
From The Fontenay, it is a fifteen-minute walk along the banks of Lake Alster into the city centre, making the destination a perfect weekend break. Although close to the centre, the hotel remains incredibly peaceful and tranquil. The entire lake can be conquered on foot in just over two hours, or longer if visitors linger over cafes, museums and piers en route. The Fontenay also has bicycles to borrow to explore further afield for more active tourists. Our guide Tomas took us via bike to the fresh and green boulevards surrounding the hotel, to St. Pauli, the ‘shoulder blade district’ and we ended at the Ratsherrn Brewery for some refreshing beverages. We knew the St. Pauli region was more than meets the eye and headed back to chow down on delicious Levantine food at Salt and Silver, overlooking majestic and gigantic ships on the water, as the sun went down.
The day at The Fontenay starts in relaxed luxury with breakfast at Parkview. Tiered stands full of delicious regional delicacies are placed on the table for each guest including a range of cheeses from Northfriesian Backensholzer Farm, a selection of local charcuterie and smoked fish specialties. Egg-based dishes like omelettes, pancakes with local speciality Rote Grütze (berry compote), or buttermilk waffles with fresh berries can be ordered additionally. The weekend stay ended with time reflecting at the rooftop spa pool at the hotel, looking over the city. Hamburg is chic yet down to earth, which is also the same as The Fontenay; sophisticated and welcoming, never stuffy. The city has a high-end foodie scene but fantastic local cheap eats, is a working, industrious city yet laid back with huge open spaces. The balance was just right and the hotel refreshed and revitalised, just like fresh water.
A Deluxe Room at The Fontenay, Hamburg is priced from €350 (from £309) per room per night including breakfast. Rate includes full breakfast, Wi-Fi, a selection of drinks from the minibar, in-room coffee machine, VAT, city tax and service. To book, visit www.thefontenay.com. For more information about Hamburg, visit www.hamburg-travel.com.
Afternoon tea experiences don’t come much more impressive than being on board a luxury, floating ‘boatique’ hotel. The story of how the Fingal came into being is fit for a Hollywood movie. It was commissioned by the Northern Lighthouse Board to undertake maintenance work on lighthouses on the western and northern shores of Scotland. It was sold to a private owner when it was decommissioned and in recent times, sold to The Royal Yacht Britannia Trust and turned into a premium hotel on the shores of Leith.
It might be a sister ship to The Britannia and a 5-star hotel, but it is fascinating to discover that it used to be a working ship. Even if you are just popping in for an afternoon tea like we did, if you speak with the hotel staff politely, they will gladly take you on a tour of the ship. Two places you must visit are the spectacular ballroom to admire the splendid acoustics, and the engine room to get an understanding of what the Fingal was about. And if not in use, do visit their unique, luxury cabins such as the penthouse Skerryvore Suite with one of the most elegant bathrooms you will find anywhere in the country and every small detail attended to like the super kind size bed headboard with map contours to trace of the famous lighthouses in Scotland.
Afternoon tea in their Lighthouse restaurant is a decadent affair with sumptuous art deco interiors that transport you back to a time when cruising the seas was only a luxury for the elite classes. The tea selection isn’t necessarily the most lengthy you will come across, but it’s been carefully curated to appeal to most people including their own Fingal’s blend, which includes different Ceylon teas, combined with Assam, Yunnan, and First Flush Darjeeling tea. They are keen to support local businesses and use Pekoe Tea Edinburgh, a Leith-based artisanal tea supplier. They offer a Champagne upgrade option with either Moët & Chandon Impérial or Moët & Chandon Rosé Impérial.
The showstopper here is the exquisitely prepared canapés-style dishes. Each piece is a dainty work of art, that invigorates your sweet, savoury, umami taste buds without ever making you feel bloated. The heritage tomato arancini had a zingy sweetness that you know comes from well-sourced tomatoes rather than artificial sugars. Likewise, the pork rillette had a refreshing sweetness that came from the beetroot relish. Sandwiches were present and correct such as free-range egg mayonnaise and hot smoked salmon but the chef is more than aware, no one wants to walk out of a restaurant feeling like a sack of wheat.
Mastering the texture of a scone is a tricky affair but the pastry team at Fingal seems to have come up with the winning formula: it’s light and crumbly. They are freshly made daily in-house rather than purchasing stale supermarket varieties. It comes in buttermilk, plain and fruit options and served with Tiptree preserves and Rodda’s clotted cream.
The sweet items were universally impressive with highlights including hazelnut praline choux bun and Oakchurch raspberry trifle with Chambord jelly.
It might be quite a trek to travel from the historical part of Edinburgh to Leith, but this is one-afternoon tea worth making the pilgrimage for.
Why Milwaukee Vs Chicago? Why not just do both in equal measures?
At some point you’re going to realise that visiting the United States is like ordering from an all-you-can-eat Japanese grill and sushi menu – it’s impossible to choose just one thing. That said, the ordering of your favourite is that lengthy comforting break you need from decision fatigue.
Let’s get hypothetical; the restaurant is Chicago O’Hare International Airport, the menu is the Great Lakes of North America. You need to decide whether Milwaukee or Chicago is your comforting break.
Both cities are easy to get to from O’Hare and perfect for a longer stay at the start or end of your trip. Read on and decide on your pick for yourself.
Round one: Bars
Chicago has got the Blues. Make sure you check out the dark and magical Kingston Mines.
As Chicago’s largest and longest-running blues club, you can feel the history emanating from the walls. It’s almost as if the building has soaked up those heartfelt blues and the spirits of musical royalty live on through it. Open seven days a week, with two stages for continuous live music, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to enjoy a casual Southern-style feast from Doc’s Rib Joint.
The music is loud, the people are cool, and Kingston Mines will make you feel like a badass, walking in the footsteps of some of the biggest blues game changers.
Milwaukee has one of the best bars I’ve been to in the States – Safehouse.
To enter this bar, you will need a password that we are contractually forbidden from releasing. You may be able to press a local tour guide for the intel, otherwise, just try your luck at the door. Once you’re in, the vibe is secret agent mixed with escape room. The food and drinks are, you’ve guessed it, spy-themed and you get to take away a branded glass with some of the cocktails.
The drinks are cherry on top of this memorable night out. Go with a curious mind and don’t believe anything you see. Try every door, turn every corner, pick up every phone, and for God’s sake, always carry a dollar!
Round two: Food & Drink
Chicago. Do you remember your first Chicago Town Pizza? Pizza, with a high crust, that’s essentially pastry, with even more sauce, cheese and toppings? Yes, Chicago!
Chicago’s deep pan pizzas are from heaven. They absolutely smash this famous dish in every place that you’ll find it in the city. Whatever you do, don’t ask for a full pizza. You buy this pizza by the slice, and you’re probably going to need a knife and fork to tackle it.
Milwaukee Public Market? Yes, please! By now, we’ve probably all frequented open-air markets, peppered with kitchen pop-ups. Milwaukee’s version is a must-visit if you are in town for more than a few days.
Buy a bottle of wine (or two) after chatting with the vineyard staff and then head over to your preferred kitchen, pull up a stool, and soak up the atmosphere.
Round three: Vibe
Chicago will blow you away with its chequered history and even more chequered architecture. Fill your heart and soul with blues, booze, and the smiles of strangers.
Chicago is big, bold, and glamourous. With ‘Trump’ emblazoned over one of its most impressive buildings, this city has a boujee air about it.
Milwaukee will steal your heart and pierce your soul with its authentic response to a history of immigration and poverty. You’ll find long-standing breweries, incredible street art (don’t miss Black Cat Alley), and real people that want you to have the best time in the city they’re proud to call home.
Fact Box: Discover both cities with American Experiences on their ‘Great Lakes Explorer Tour’.
For more information visit americanexperiences.com. Hayes & Jarvis also offers a seven-night holiday to North America from £2,599 per person, find out more at hayesandjarvis.co.uk
The mighty United States of America may cover nearly 10 million square kilometres, but how many of us are guilty of glossing over its fascinating cities in favour of those old faithfuls like New York and Las Vegas?
The world’s love affair with the USA shows no sign of abating, but while post-corona travel plans the to the States may currently be up in the air, we know that when we do head back over the pond our attention will be turning to America’s underrated gems for an electrifying experience of US culture somewhere new.
There are dozens of exciting US cities that rival the big hitters, that will leave your tastebuds tantalised, your culture barometer maxed out and your urge for discovery firmly quelled. We’ve picked three of our favourites that we can’t wait to explore.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Known as the birthplace of America and under two hours from New York by train from Penn Station, Philly has plenty to keep you entertained if you fancy a detour from the city that never sleeps.
What to see
Head to Independence National Historic Park for a guided tour and see where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were drafted at Independence Hall, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Brush up on your American history at The Museum of the American Revolution.
Take in more than 2,000 years of art history at Philadelphia Museum of Art and embrace your inner Rocky with a race up its iconic steps.
See Rodin’s iconic ‘The Thinker’ at the Rodin Museum, home to one of the largest collections of his works outside of Paris
Take a walking tour of some of the cities 4,000 murals; visit muralarts.org to plan your route.
Face your fear at the Eastern State Penitentiary, an abandoned prison that’s creepy and fascinating all year long but turns into a scary immersive experience around Halloween.
Longwood Gardens may be outside of the city, but worth the drive for what is one of the top botanical gardens in the world.
Where To Eat & Drink
You can’t visit without trying a Philly Cheesesteak; fresh, soft and squishy Italian rolls, filled with melted cheese and tender pieces of beef. Campo’s Deli has been serving them up for over 70 years, so they know what they’re doing.
One of the most prominent craft beer cities in the world and often referred to as the ‘Best Beer Drinking City in America’; you’ll find a host of historical brewpubs and renowned breweries across the city.
Make sure you visit Reading Terminal Market on an empty stomach; it’s one of America’s largest and oldest public markets and offers local food favourites including hoagies, pretzels and Pennsylvania Dutch goodies.
We got some tips from a local on their favourite spots to dine out. Head to El Vez for the best nachos in town, Sampan for delicious Asian and its super cool Graffiti bar, the farm-to-table Talulas Garden and for dessert, you can’t beat Franklin Fountain; an old-fashioned ice cream shop and a Philly classic.
Seattle, Washington
It’s easy to be drawn to the beautiful sunshine of LA or the offbeat charm of San Francisco, but edge north into the Pacific Northwest and you’ll be rewarded with this year-round destination and its cornucopia of iconic sights, outdoor recreation, arts and culture, world-class sports and a vibrant and thriving culinary scene.
What to See
You literally can’t miss the Space Needle, given it towers over the Seattle skyline at 605ft tall. Don’t miss the world’s first and only rotating glass floor.
Discover the work of Washington native and contemporary artist David Chihuly at Chihuly Garden and Glass. You might recognise the iconic glassblower’s intricate work from the central sculpture housed in the atrium of London’s V&A museum.
Seattle’s first neighbourhood, Pioneer Square, is a bustling area with beautiful Romanesque Revival architecture as well as trendy boutique shops, chic bars and restaurants.
The Museum of Pop Culture is a must-visit, particularly for any music fans. Designed by Frank Gehry, the architecture of the building aims to replicate a smashed guitar, in homage to the legendary musicians that hail from the city.
Olympic National Park is home to lush rainforests, mountain peaks, beaches, rivers and hot springs. With activities including hiking, fishing, tide-pooling and camping, it’s an escape to another world.
Where To Eat & Drink
Elliott’s Oyster House has been serving up a fresh catch on Pier 56 for over 40 years. There’s no better spot to enjoy speciality Pacific oysters with wine pairings while watching the world go by.
It’s no secret Seattle is famous for its coffee – it was the birthplace of Starbucks after all – but head to Storyville Coffee for some of the best blends in the state
A celebration of the food and wine of the Pacific Northwest, The Herbfarm unveils a new, nine-course thematic menu every few weeks to showcase the very best of the region, using ingredients grown in its garden and nearby farm to serve seasonal and unusual cuisine.
If visiting in March, make sure that Taste Washington is in your diary; a four-day food fest featuring hundreds of Washington wineries, chefs and restaurants offering tastings, demos, talks and workshops
Denver, Colorado
Lonely Planet named Denver one of its top cities to visit in 2020 and we’re inclined to agree. It’s a cultural playground, not to mention the access point for plentiful outdoor adventures.
What to See
Visit the Golden Triangle Creative District, home to the Colorado Photographic Arts Center, Denver Art Museum and the Clyfford Still Museum, dedicated to the mysterious life and revolutionary art of a modern master.
Easily one of the world’s most phenomenal live music venues, Red Rocks Amphitheatre has hosted iconic performers such as the Beatles, Jimi Hendrix and The Rolling Stones. It’s worth timing your trip to make a pilgrimage here for a gig you will never forget.
Denver has a packed annual calendar of festivals. The Denver March PowWow is one of the largest events of its kind in the country featuring more than 1,500 dancers from 100 tribes. Throughout the year you’ll find everything from the Grilled Cheese Fest to the Five Points Jazz Festival and Denver BBQ Festival.
The city has 85 miles of bike trails to explore, not to mention pedal boating on Washington Park, kayaking on the white-water chutes at Confluence Park and plenty of walks to take in that stunning Denver skyline.
What To Eat & Drink
Opened in 2018, Milk Market in downtown Denver is home to 13 restaurant stalls, three bars and an artisan food market, while Denver Central Market in RiNo, offers farm-to-table cuisine and plenty of seasonable, vegan options.
The Great American Beer Festival is hailed as the largest beer festival in the world; representing the biggest collection of US beer ever served.
Our local intel tells us RiNo’s Cart Driver is Denver’s home for sharing wood-fired pizzas, fresh oysters, seasonal market plates and cocktails. Señor Bear is a hotspot for Latin-inspired food and drink and The Wolf’s Tailor stitches together Chef Kelly Whitaker’s collaborations and travels through Italian kitchens and Asian night markets.
Denver has no shortage of exciting bars. El Five boasts an uninterrupted view of the Denver skyline, Seven Grand houses over 7,000 whiskies and Improper City with its 12,000 square foot patio, is the perfect location for outdoor summer drinks.
Most travel writers wouldn’t put covering health and safety on top of their aspirational writing list, but in this COVID-19 era, you can imagine that is probably one of the most googled topics around. Recently, I flew out on the first ‘COVID-free’ flight to the Canary Islands to discover the multi-faceted aspects of Tenerife and also how COVID-secure their safety procedures are throughout the island. On the same flight was the UNWTO Secretary-General, Zurab Pololikashvili. His team at the United Nations is keen to kick-start the tourism industry again, knowing how vital tourism is to places like the Canary Islands.
In this new era, one thing to note is there are always risk with travelling and it’s more pertinent than ever in the current climate. When I travelled to Tenerife, there was no quarantine period for returning UK travellers, but that had changed by the time I wrote up this article. No doubt, this might change again a few times before the current crisis is over. My advice is to book your holidays, but make sure you book it last minute.
Tenerife and all of the Canary Islands are probably one of the safest places on earth with very low rates of COVID infections over the last few months. At the time of writing, the Canary Islands had about 2,610 confirmed cases in total since the beginning of the year; there are 8 islands in total and to put things into perspective, at the height of the pandemic, UK had almost 1,000 cases in a single day.
During our few days of visiting the various parts of the island, mask-wearing was commonplace both indoors and outdoors, hand-sanitisers were in abundance and you are greeted with hand sanitising on arrival in some restaurants. Public areas, and in particular public transport, are cleaned frequently such as our tram ride from Santa Cruz to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of San Cristobla de La Laguna.
If you want to know how well they’ve adapted, you need to look no further than our first-night stay at H10 Costa Adeje Palace. Yes, that is the infamous hotel that had an early outbreak of COVID-19 back in February where the guests had to quarantine for a maximum of 14 days. Our temperature was checked on arrival, the pens we used to sign the documents were used once and then cleaned. The breakfast buffet was still happening, but dishes were either covered in cling film or served to you by a waiter. You are more likely to come across a hand sanitiser throughout the hotel rather than finding a cash machine.
The question of mask-wearing is often on people’s minds. No, you don’t have to wear them whilst you are sat down eating your breakfast and also when you are on your sun lounger. They’ve made sure the loungers are socially distanced and there’s never more people in the swimming pool than there are sun loungers available.
Likewise, we had a socially-distanced welcome dinner, where there were only 4 people per round table which normally fits 8-12 people. Microphones for speeches were sprayed in between different speakers. Our welcome presents included face coverings and hand sanitisers.
If there are any concerns, it’s not from the islands themselves but the flying experience. You are still sat very close to other air passengers. You are still served food during the journey where you have to remove your masks. And despite warnings to not stand up until the rows in front have departed first on arrival, most people are still desperately keen to get off the plane. Transfer buses are also incredibly cramped. If governments and airport authorities can introduce more uniformity to COVID-secure procedures at airports than this will no doubt help to bring the industry back to more of a stable footing.
LA does roof top bars like no other city. A combination of warm balmy nights and Instagrammable views of the Los Angeles skyline make it the perfect place to take in dreamy, tangerine sunsets and cocktails.
Here at House of Coco, we’ve sussed out the best bars for sky-high views, delicious drinks, good tunes and a sprinkle of that cool Cali-vibe.
Skybar at the Mondrian, West Hollywood
If you are looking for that hip, Hollywood glamour then the Skybar at the Mondrian is the place to visit. During the day it’s a chic poolside lounge, perfect for soaking up some rays and relaxing and, at night, it turns into one of the hottest party spots in LA. World-class DJs pump out the tunes while guests hang out sipping on champagne, signature cocktails, spirits and beers. Boasting some of the finest views of the city, this popular rooftop bar is the place to be seen; so, dress to impress.
Hot tip: If you aren’t staying at the Mondrian, arrive after 1pm when the bar opens to the public.
Mama Shelter, Hollywood
Take in the sweeping views of Hollywood at this casual, chilled rooftop bar. Settle down on one of the bright, cosy sofas and sample the rustic, home-cooked food. Think baby back ribs that just drop off the bone and home-made cookies; just like mama would bake. This is a great venue to meet up with friends, grab a bite to eat, sample a cocktail from their infamous Moscow Mule menu, lounge on the day beds or have a go at the table games and foosball.
Hot tip: Mama’s has a first come, first served policy so try and get there early in the evening.
Above SIXTY, Beverly Hills
Located on the rooftop of the SIXTY Beverly Hills, Above SIXTY was named LA’s best rooftop al fresco bar and restaurant. With an extensive bar and 360 views of the city, it’s easy to see why. There’s a contemporary and stylish split-level terrace; the lower has a bar and lounge seating while the roof terrace has a pool, lounge areas and cabanas. This is a great spot for brunch on a weekend or, if you are looking to hang with the cool crowd, reserve your table for sundowners.
Hot Tip: A great place if you are looking to splurge.
Upstairs Bar at Ace Hotel, Downtown
The Upstairs Bar at the Ace has it all; DJ sets, live music, splendid drinks, book release parties and rooftop yoga. With stunning views of the city, this bar has definitely upped the rooftop game. It’s more than just a bar, it’s a great social space that offers a daily line up of events.
Hot tip: Check out their website before you visit, as there are lots of different events on each night.
High Rooftop Lounge at Erwin Hotel, Santa Monica
As the only rooftop bar in Venice Beach, you can count on epic sunset views year-round. The vibe here during the day is laid back, with 360 views that take in Muscle Beach, Catalina Island, Malibu, Downtown LA and the Hollywood Hills. When the sun goes down, the energy goes up a notch as the hip crowd dance around the glass fire pits, while the guest DJs spin out the beats.
Hot tip: Even if you are staying at the hotel, make a reservation as it gets busy.
Petit Ermitage, West Hollywood
You might well believe that you are in the Mediterranean, rather than Hollywood, when you arrive at Petit Ermitage. This beautiful boho bar is like an Italian secret garden. The pool and bar area is flanked with citrus trees, scattered with twinkly fairy lights. Sip on cocktails created by the Spirit Master in the Butterfly Bar and escape the ordinary. This Hollywood hideaway is humming with birds and butterflies. On an evening, step in the gypsy wagons and have your tarot cards read or snuggle under a blanket and watch an exclusive film premiere on the fire deck.
Hot Tip: This is guest-only, so you need to be staying at the hotel to get in.
After (who knows how many) months of lockdown, three postponed destination weddings and one cancelled romantic getaway (with my better half), to say I was excited when I was invited to review the cheeky London outpost of Mama Shelter in Hackney, is an understatement! It’s been on my bucket list for some time and it didn’t disappoint.
On arrival, I was instantly greeted by all of the things that helped propel Mama Shelter as one of the world’s leading hotel brands: bombastic décor, welcoming and knowledgeable staff and of course, incredible location in London’s culture hub of Hackney. Needless to say, it offered a more subdued version of its usual self, but that’s fair given it now has to operate in a COVID-19 world, but they still did well to retain the playful personality it’s known and loved for. This included the team’s mandatory face masks, each emblazoned with its own unique mouth design (tongue out, lip biting, smiling with braces) turning a dull and restrictive item into a fun and desirable accessory.
The overall style of the played on its location in the heart of trendy east end with a mixture of mid-century and vintage furnishing throughout. The ground floor was a kaleidoscope of colours with a mish-mash of lampshades, long tables (which also double-up as great workspace), booths and chalkboard ceilings, along with an open plan kitchen. The Greenhouse, where I was met by their resident mixologist trying out new concoctions, was airy and bright with a retractable roof – a perfect space for dining with friends and drinking cocktails al-fresco. In winter, I can imagine it also offers a cosy alternative.
My room was 70’s inspired with playful little touches, including a novel corner booth with lush velvet emerald green cushions, super comfy bedding and perfectly proportioned (and very well lit bathroom). The room also had a great view over the old gasworks synonymous with nearby Regents Canal. And of course, it wouldn’t be a stay with Mama without their lovely selection of Mama Organic Skin Range (along with their suggestive namesakes, ‘Mama wants to cream you up’).
My beautiful room overlooking the famous gasworks on Regent’s Canal
After unpacking and freshening up, I headed to the Greenhouse for dinner. The (paperless QR) menu offers generous family-style dishes with some Turkish influences. My favourites: the burrata with borlotti beans, golden raising and gremolata and the simple (but delicious) cured sea trout with heritage beetroot, horseradish and lime. For the main, I devoured the Chicken Za’atar with harissa yoghurt, pickled cucumber and pistachio. The downstairs space and Greenhouse would also make a great brunch spot – the fluffy American pancakes were incredible! – with your friends or family and ideally located for exploring the area after.
As a former Hackney resident, I know the neighbourhood well and I couldn’t recommend it enough for readers looking to discover a new part of London or just fancied a fun night out without the hassle of getting a taxi home later. The hotel is perfectly placed between bustling Broadway Market (for lazy Saturday mornings) and Columbia Road (the infamous flower market runs on Sunday’s) and about a 15 minutes walk from Shoreditch High Street, offering endless art galleries, contemporary furniture and clothing stores and live music venues (although this is on pause for the time being).
Mama normally offers an unmissable program of events (currently on hold due to government guidelines) which has helped it to create a great sense of community among locals. Downstairs, Japanese-style karaoke rooms – they often host drag karaoke nights – are decked out with pinball machines, retro video games and classic 50s-style microphones and are available to hire for groups. Guests can also create personal souvenirs of their Mama Shelter experience with the photo and video booths, via the brand’s social platforms.
My first Mama experience was in Paris for my birthday a while back. It was one of their first hotels – Mama Shelter East – and I remember thinking then that it was ahead of its time, offering an affordable boutique hotel experience with all the trimmings you’d expect from a five-star hotel: great food, buzzing atmosphere, service and modern design (but without the hefty price tag).
The Mama Shelter journey started in 2008 with the launch of Mama Paris East. Founded by the Trigano family – co-Founder of Club Med – and world-renowned designer Philippe Starck, Mama Shelter believed in launching in lesser-known, ‘out of the way’ neighbourhoods in iconic cities, allowing guests to discover new creative corners with Marseille, Lyon, Bordeaux, Los Angeles, Rio de Janeiro, Belgrade, Prague and Toulouse soon added to the group’s portfolio. Today, MAMA’s international footprint continues to grow, with hotel openings in Lille and Paris West this year, and properties in Luxembourg, Dubaï, Santiago de Chile, Lisbon and further locations set to open by 2022.
It was lovely to see Mama’s managed to retain her charm even after global domination.
To celebrate their reopening, Mama London is offering stays from as little as £49* per night. The only condition is that you have dinner in their restaurant or via room service – seems fair to me!
Indulge in a little post-lockdown luxury at the historic London hotel.
West End landmark hotel, The Waldorf Hilton, is celebrating throwing its doors open once again by announcing its Waldorf Weekender package. With complimentary afternoon tea on arrival, a hamper of treats and much more, guests can look forward to experiencing a relaxing staycation in the heart of the city.
The historic hotel, which has undergone restoration work to the façade of the building, had suspended operations during the UK’s lockdown. To celebrate the re-opening, The Waldorf Hilton is inviting those eager to take in the city’s sights with a two-night package at the hotel. The package will be available from July and guests will have the option to book either a family or couples version of the offering.
Upon arrival, guests will be treated to the hotel’s iconic Afternoon Tea served in their room and a hamper of treats to enjoy throughout their stay. In addition, to help visitors make the most of their London stay, a complimentary picnic hamper will be provided so guests can go out and explore the local area, with the added option of champagne for couples.
Families and couples alike will be treated to unlimited moving streaming, breakfast in bed throughout their stay and will have the option of in-room dining for their evening meals on either one or both nights at the hotel. Guests booking the couple’s package will have the option of a complimentary bottle of wine with their evening meal.
The reopening of the hotel also marks the completion of restoration works to the façade of the hotel, restoring the 111-year-old historic building to its former glory. Work has taken place on the detailed masonry that covers the building’s 190-foot façade which has been carefully carried out to maintain the Edwardian period details.
The Waldorf Hilton is rolling out Hilton CleanStay to deliver an industry-defining standard of cleanliness and disinfection in Hilton properties across the world. Our elevated processes and Team Member training have been developed with RB, maker of Lysol and Dettol, to help The Waldorf Hilton guests enjoy an even cleaner and safer stay from check-in to check-out. New standards for Hilton CleanStay that will be rolling out soon include a Hilton CleanStay Room Seal to indicate that a room has not been accessed since being thoroughly cleaned and disinfected, “knock and go” dropped-off room service, and flexible housekeeping options.
The Waldorf Hilton General Manager, Guy Hilton said:
“We are delighted to be reopening and offering guests a comfortable, welcoming environment for a city staycation. We look forward to offering guests the chance to relax with us over the coming months and welcoming them back to The Waldorf Hilton. As we prepare to reopen, we have implemented Hilton CleanStay which provides guests with assurance and peace of mind during their stay.’
