Destination Inspiration - House Of Coco Magazine

Adventures February 13, 2020

Fall in love this Valentine’s Day with a romantic city break

Ideal for a Valentine’s getaway or for a romantic sojurn anytime of the year, feel the love with our round up of the world’s most luxurious hotels tailored for love.

Round Hill Hotel & Villas, Jamaica

Picture 100 acres of private lush grounds that surround the dazzling waters of Montego Bay. The Round Hill Hotel & Villas is the ideal destination for a sunshine-filled Caribbean break. Deemed as ‘the’ place to visit by the famous and glamorous in the 1950’s, this exclusive and luxrious resort ticks all the style boxes thanks to its 36 oceanfront guestrooms in the Ralph Lauren-designed Pineapple House and its 27 stunning villas.

Spice Island Beach Resort, Grenada

With a chic blend of traditional Caribbean and contemporary style, the Spice Island Beach Resort in Grenada is Grenadian luxury personified. Guests can dine in the open-air gourmet restaurant where they can savour authentic local specialties in a fine dining atmosphere, while enjoying the very best of Grenada’s calypso, reggae and steel bands. It is perfectly positioned on the soft white sands of Grand Anse, Grenada’s most beautiful beach. This luxurious hotel offers superb, spacious accommodation, great spa facilities and excellent service.

Grand Hotel Continental, Tuscany

The only 5-star luxury hotel in the heart of Siena in Tuscany, the Grand Hotel Continental is adorned with original frescoes and rich decorations that can be found throughout the property. The Panoramic Suite is a realm of luxury, privacy and Italian elegance with unrivalled 360° view over Siena and the surrounding valleys. Absolutely bellisimo! Guests can enjoy a delicious meal in the Sapor di Vino restaurant teamed with a carefully-selected bottle of wine.

Jardin des Douars, Essaouira, Morocco

Taking inspiration from the rammed earth Kasbahs of the High Atlas, the Jardin des Douars which is located close to Essaouira sits upon a ridge-top that overlooks the Ksob river. Whilst the look is undoubtedly rustic-chic, there is still a sense of luxury thanks to the spa and the two heated pools.

The hotel looks like a fusion of a genteel country manor fused with a grand castle, lavishly decorated with glowing candles and soft deep pile rugs.

This is ideal for those who are looking for a real retreat and hanker after the peace and tranquillity of the surrounding olive trees and terracotta hills

Grand Hotel Europe, St Petersburg

With a prime location at the cultural heart of St Petersburg, The Grand Hotel Europe is one the city’s most celebrated landmarks. It is opulently decorated with gilded stucco ceilings, breath-taking stained glass, resplendent marble and dazzling chandeliers. The hotel has ten luxurious suites each of which has an individual design. Guests can dine at AZIA offers a daily Emotions Tasting Menu, which combines textures, perfumes, flavours, temperatures and colours to create a unique dining experience.

Hotel President Wilson, Geneva

Situated on the shores of Leman lake and just a few steps from the most beautiful parks and boutiques of the renowned Rue du Rhône, Hotel President Wilson is one of the most contemporary hotels in Geneva, facing the magnificent panorama of the Mont-Blanc.

With large bay-windows offering a panoramic view over Lake Leman, the hotel pool or Geneva city, all 204 Rooms and 22 Suites of the luxury hotel combine comfort and elegance. However, the acclaimed Royal Penthouse Suite is truly a sight to behold thanks to its terrace with panoramic view over the lake and the Mont-Blanc, the jacuzzi, spa, Steinway grand piano, the 103-inch Bang & Olufsen and beautiful furnishings. This truly unique suite stands for pure luxury with maximum security, from bulletproof windows, emergency alarm buttons and reinforced safe to a private lift to take guests directly to their majestic living quarters.

Live an exclusive experience at Spa La Mer and its outdoor pool overlooking the lake and succumb to the delicacy of the Michelin starred cuisine from famous Chef Michel Roth.

St. Regis Vommuli Resort, Maldives

Tucked away, on an exclusive private island reachable by seaplane is the St Regis – one of the most luxurious resort in the Maldives. Combining contemporary design and local craftsmanship, with a profound appreciation for the ecological environment, there is no other destination quite like this exquisite beach resort on Vommuli Island.

Private terraces that lead to pristine beaches and infinity pools with the Indian Ocean as a tranquil backdrop inspire moments of relaxation. The accommodation highlight has to be the Overwater St. Regis Suite – an elegant overwater retreat with stunning views of the Maldives lagoon, overwater hammocks and a romantic gazebo to take in the beauty of the house reef below

Guests can savour epicurean delights from all over the world in any of the six restaurants and bars—each inspired by authentic Italian, Middle Eastern and Asian flavours served in buffet, ala carte or tapas style. They can then restore their well-being with custom-made treatments at the over-water Iridium Spa.

The Palm, Dubai

Located in the heart of the Crescent, The Palm is part luxury hotel, part underwater-themed resort thanks to its two pools, waterpark and small, but perfectly formed man-made beach. Despite sticking rigidly to the underwater theme, guests can reside in opulent suites and can enjoy fine-dining cuisine at one of the 23 restaurants, bars and lounges – Ossiano and Nobu are recommended.

There are five different suites available, but the most striking is the Royal Bridge Suite which includes three lavishly-decorated bedrooms, an exquisitely designed lounge, with decor reflecting the opulence and stature of the suite and is perfect for entertaining and includes its own private library, games and media centre, majlis and massage room.

Hotel Arlberg, Lech

What could be more romantic than a snow-filled break with the one you love? Experience rustic charm at the Hotel Arlberg in the beautiful alpine town of Lech in Austria. The rooms are cosy and are elegantly decorated in traditional Austrian style. From the stunning spa where you can enjoy his and hers treatments to the fabulous wine tasting experience, your inner romantic can’t fail to escape.

Destination Inspiration February 10, 2020

O-man, you’re missing out!

Why should your next trip be to Oman? We’ll tell you why. Our girl Vanessa had the pleasure to visit the Arabian peninsula last week and she hasn’t shut up about it since.

Rich in cultural history with a unique and exotic vibe, Oman is a place everyone must visit at some point in their life; mainly known for being a major oil exporter yet the country has so much more to offer. It’s history is perfect for history lovers; once under Portuguese rule with old ports, defences and a jail, which there is now no need for due its non-existent crime rate.

It’s one of the safest regions in the Middle East, has four UNESCO world heritage sites and it’s buildings are awash with pastels; no dark colours or skyscrapers here, not even in Muscat, making it simply picturesque.

As a country it is super stable and ruled by a monarchy; Sultan Qaboos bin Said al-Said attended university in the UK and made many changes to the country, modernising it and its culture. He recently passed and has been succeeded by his cousin, Haitham bin Tariq Al Said. So over the next few years it will be interesting to see what the new Sultan brings to Oman.

Omani’s are vibrant, friendly and beyond polite and the country is immersed in the culture of Islam, so throwing yourself into the culture is necessary. A visit to the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is a highlight, with the largest carpet in the world and a 1,120 lightbulb Swarovski chandelier, it is a grounding experience; just remember to dress appropriately and respectfully. Venturing into the city to discover old Muscat, new Muscat and their ports allows you to appreciate what the country has to offer. Getting lost in the Souks is a must and even in this environment the Omani stall owners are super polite, with an array of perfume oils, trinkets, clothing and local food, it’s the perfect place to absorb the dynamic atmosphere.

Dates, obviously play a huge part in Oman and we definitely recommend trying a variety, yet they aren’t the only sweet treat in the nation. Halwa, is a sticky gelatinous dish made from brown sugar, honey, eggs and various spices, that is seriously worth indulging in.

The rest of Omani cuisine revolves around meat, spices, bread and rice. Majoboos is meal worth trying it’s rice cooked with saffron and served with a spicy meat of your choice. Mushalat is also a good option, it’s a soft flat bread stuffed with honey, meat, spinach or cheese and of course there is Shwarma.

Due to it’s ports and coast Oman is renowned for it’s seafood and if you’re a fan. Mashuai is the dish for you; roasted kingfish and savoury lemon rice. Some places also allow you to experience the traditional Oman Shuwa which is a celebratory dish of roasted lamb and rice, normally reserved for special occasions.

Oman’s landscape is breathtaking; mountains whose rock formations vary from one to the next, vast deserts with scatterings of trees and shrubs to the whitewashed buildings of the city. There is always something to look at and explore.

To get the best of Oman, you need to know where to stay… Sahab Resort and Spa is a boutique hotel in Jabal Al Akhdar, built on the canyon edge of Al Hajar Mountain range. The resort sits at 2000m above sea level so temperatures can get a little chilly but the views easily make up for that. So whether you want a little pamper or adventure this is the perfect location. Spa treatments and sunbathing vs hiking and abseiling; the choice is yours.

Mountainous landscape with breathtaking views checked off, so the next choice is of course the desert. Dunes by Al Nahda is a tented hotel in the South Batinah region, located in the heart of the desert you are surrounded by the sands of the Wadi Al Abyad. The resort is spread out over 17 acres and has 50 individual tents, an incredible restaurant, the best hotel reception you will ever encounter, an open air spa, an incredible restaurant, a bar that can conjure up any cocktail and of course a resident camel.

All in all, Oman is a secret treasure that isn’t going to be a secret for much longer.

Accessories February 5, 2020

What to Pack: Stylish Safari-inspired looks for Capetown

Capetown is definitely a bucket list destination, but don’t take our word for it – why don’t you check our our girl Beth Robert’s review of one of Capetown’s hottest design hotels and see for yourself?

So if you’re feeling inspired and planning to conquer table mountain, or just lounge by the Silo Hotel’s very own rooftop pool; then your outfits should definitely match the occasion. Our suggestion? Embrace classic khakis and contemporary earth tones – for a safari look that is as fierce as the wildlife.

Khaki Gabriela Hat by Misaharada available at www.misaharada.com
Leopard print bodysuit by Longchamp available at longchamp.com
Black boots by Penelope Chilvers available at penelopechilvers.com
Cognac Isla bag by Montunas available at montunas.com
Gold plated beaded necklace by Bibi Marini available at bibimarini.com
Gold Oceanus cuff by Deborah Blyth available at deborahblyth.com
Lyra sunglasses by You Mawo available at seen.co.uk
Green printed dress by Lelloue available at lelloue.com
Khaki satin top by Rosetta Getty available at rosettagetty.com
Zebra print shorts by Lelloue available at lelloue.com
Black Polido sandals by Toga available at toga.jp
Croc Purse by Amishi London available at amishi.london
Burgundy voyageur bag by Tumi available at tumi.com
Lesley Necklace by Lola Rose available at co.uk

Destination Inspiration February 3, 2020

Experience Awards Season like a Celebrity in West Hollywood

With the new year comes Hollywood’s awards season. It kicked-off with a glittering bang last weekend with the 77th Golden Globe Awards- thank you for the laughs, Ricky Gervais! – and if you’re anything like me, with that comes the anticipation of who is wearing what and generally, just basking in the fabulousness of it all. But how do the stars get red-carpet ready? From sweat lodges to vitamin injections, #TeamCoco got the scoop on on how they make the most of West Hollywood’s world-famous wellness and shopping experiences, in the heart of Los Angeles.

Sweat it out at the ‘Urban Sweat Lodge’: Join one of West Hollywood’s alternative sweat sessions at the Shape House, offering a sweating experience wrapped in a heated blanket whilst watching Netflix. During the sweat session, the heart receives a workout similar to that of a ten-mile run, resulting in an intense, detoxifying, health-boosting sweat, burning 800-1,600 calories. Individual sweat sessions cost $65.

Revitalise with vitamin injections: Rehab Wellness is a medical wellness centre, offering a variety of healthcare and aesthetics to help guests feel better, look younger and live longer. One of the most popular treatments on offer is the vitamin injection, with shots starting from $24. Benefits include increased energy and metabolism, improved digestion and skin health.

Give your face a workout: Opened inside the 1 Hotel in September, FaceGym has made its way to LA following the opening of six locations in the UK and one in New York City. The concept is for ‘Trainers’ to perform a range of non-invasive workouts for your face and employ the latest cutting-edge technology and high-performance skincare products.

Pause, breathe and unplug: Unplug Meditation, the world’s first drop-in, secular meditation studio, opened its doors in West Hollywood in April 2014. The wide variety of simple and eclectic classes are led by top experts, inspiring visits to pause, breathe and unplug daily, to get calmer, healthier and happier.

Make like the stars and shop!

Design District: West Hollywood’s Design District home to California’s premier design, art, fashion and beauty stores. Surrounding the Pacific Design Center – home to more than 100 trade-only showrooms – are dozens of shops offering one of a kind home goods and clothing, to get you ready for a night of celebration.

Melrose Avenue: Melrose Avenue is one of LA’s most iconic streets, with a wide variety of trendy shops and restaurants. Those looking to stand out can head to Melrose Place, which offers an eye-popping array of designer stores, including Isabel Marant and Marc Jacobs, as well as carefully curated boutiques.

Award season hotspots and where to stay:

The West Hollywood EDITION: Located on the corner of West Sunset Boulevard and North Doheny Drive, the recently opened West Hollywood EDITION features 190 design-forward luxury rooms and suites, along with 20 residences. Each room boasts indulgent bedding, inviting baths and Le Labo products, as well as floor-to-ceiling windows receiving impressive views of the LA skyline. Guestscan revel in a rooftop pool, six-treatment room spa, lobby lounge, basement club and signature restaurant.

Kimpton La Peer Hotel: Kimpton La Peer Hotel can be found in the heart of the city’s lively Design District. La Peer signals “unbuttoned luxury” with its chic European-styled rooms, complete with white oak herringbone floors, a calming colour palette and deep soaking baths. It’s an intimate place with just 105 guestrooms and suites and a pool that’s refreshingly casual – accented with Gaudi tiles, shady olive trees and a vertical garden wall.

Hotel 850 SVB: A sister property to the iconic Sunset Tower Hotel – which held one of the Golden Globes after parties this year – Hotel 850 SVB offers a chic home-from-home in the heart of West Hollywood. The hotel offers 23 beautifully appointed rooms, a communal living room, large rooftop terrace and modern pantry where guests can enjoy meals from Chefs from across the city, located within the historical bungalow façade, tucked away in a residential street.

Adventures February 3, 2020

5 must-have experiences in Finnish Lapland

There is something rather magical about winter in Finnish Lapland. From dreamy pastel tones that fill the sky, the romantic whiteout landscapes to watching the Northern Lights dance above you, there is something the seems otherworldly inside Finland’s pocket of the Arctic Circle.

While the pristine wilderness of Finnish Lapland is beautiful in summer and autumn, it is winter that truly takes pride of place for this unspoiled corner of Scandinavia. With a truly remarkable offering from festive getaways and ski breaks to uncovering Sami culture and catching a glimpse of the best light show on earth, there’s no shortage of things to do in Lapland.

We love all things winter wonderland related, so we’ve gathered the things you cannot miss doing on an adventure in Finnish Lapland.

1. Go dog sledding

A huge part of the culture here in Finnish Lapland, dog sledding is one of the most popular and iconic activities on offer. An integral part of the Sami culture for centuries, dog sledding was a primary means of transport in the Arctic. There are a number of tours that allow you to experience your own dog sledding moment, many of which give you the opportunity to try your hand at mushing (driving the sled).

From gentle, relaxing trails that weave through snow dusted pine forests and across frozen lakes to more demanding paths with trails that give you a hours of beautiful landscapes zipping by, there’s no shortage of excursions to choose from.

Many husky safaris also include a snack or meal and a hot drink to warm you after a few hours in the frigid temps. Cosy up by an open fire in a traditional wooden hut, and warm your toes as you sip hot juice and enjoy homemade soup.

It’s important to remember to research your tour operator and select an ethical practice when considering your options for any animal tourism.

2. See the northern lights

There’s no doubt that magic is real once you’ve watched the spectacular light show that is the Aurora Borealis. Ribbons of green and purple blaze through the inky night sky in a dance that is truly beyond this world in a brilliant display of nature’s finest work.

Hunting the northern lights is as much about luck as it is about preparation. There’s a few key considerations before you head out looking for them. The time of year (October-March is best, but they can sometimes be seen in September and April), no light pollution and clear skies. The rest really comes down to mother nature.

For the best chances to see the brilliance of the Aurora for yourself, joining a northern lights tour in Lapland will pair you with a team of expert guides who know the best locations and exactly what to look out for.

If you plan to give it a go alone, remember to avoid light pollution and be patient. The lights can be fleeting or last for hours, coming in ebbs and flows as the particles in the atmosphere react. There are also a few Aurora apps that can help you with notifications of where the best opportunities are based on your location and geomagnetic activity.

Just remember, this one is about luck. Give yourself a few nights in case of bad weather or the lights simply not showing up sometimes. We recommend 3-5 nights for the best chances.

3. Wake up in a glass igloo

You’ll truly feel like you’ve woken up on the set of Frozen after spending a night in a glass igloo. Giving you uninterrupted access to the night’s sky, this can be one of the best locations to spot the northern lights if you’re lucky. Cosy up with a hot chocolate and watch one of the best shows on earth unfold, without having to leave the warmth of your igloo.

Of course, a stay in a glass igloo is idyllic in any situation. The views from these unique accommodations are incredible, with the short days in winter casting sorbet tones across the skies for hours at a time – an endless golden hour.

There are several options for a glass igloo stay, from the gateway to the Arctic Circle in Rovaniemi to the remote northern settlement of Saariselkä. But they book out early, so get in quick if you’re planning your Lapland escape.

4. Enjoy a Finnish sauna experience

In a country where there are over 3 million saunas, it should be a must-do on everyone’s list while in Finland. A traditional pastime much-loved by the Finns, there is something deeply therapeutic about a session in a Finnish sauna.

Coming in from the crisp winter air of the outdoors, your body will love warming up in one of these steamy wooden rooms. Of course if you’d like to really challenge your body, why not try a dip in the freezing water of a nearby lake before thawing in the comfort of the Finns favourite social space?

5. Visit Santa

No trip to Lapland would be complete without a visit to the jolly fellow we all know and love. Considered the home of Santa Claus, Rovaniemi is the ideal place to enjoy a festive break any time of year.

There’s plenty to see and do at Santa Claus Village, with reindeer sleigh rides and Santa’s workshop. The Arctic Circle actually cuts right through Santa Claus Village meaning you can be both inside and outside the circle at the same time!

You can spend the night in one of the cabins on site, with the option to keep an eye on the skies to spot the northern lights dancing their way overhead. Just to add to the fun of it all, any mail you post from here will be postmarked from Santa’s post office.

Austria January 31, 2020

Lech – a destination for all seasons

Whether you love to ski, hike, bake or even try a spot of mountain top yoga, Lech in Austria is the place to be in 2020. In winter, it’s a ski bunny’s paradise and receives up to twice as much snow as some of its alpine counterparts. Lech is expecting snow in the next few days, so if you are looking for a great ski destination – head to this beautiful city for some snow-filled fun.

Travelling to Lech is a breeze. You can either fly into Innsbruck or Zurich – both of which make for a scenic drive or why not get the train? Langen am Arlberg is just 15 km away from the centre of Lech. There is also a special ski coach that you can take in winter which takes you directly from Zurich to the hotel.

We stayed in the beautiful and charming Hotel Arlberg which is conveniently situated in the heart of this picturesque town. This five-star ski and wellness boutique hotel is a luxury alpine retreat brimming in character and is run by a friendly and professional family team who have previously hosted the likes of Princess Diana.

The décor is luxurious yet eclectic and has subtle nods to its mountain surroundings. Think rustic cool where you will find both objet d’art and stylish accessories sitting side-by-side. The rooms are huge and are elegantly furnished.

We loved spending time in the hotels elegant spa where you can enjoy relaxing massages, rejuvenating facials and more. We highly recommend the Susanne Kaufman facial which will bring your winter weary skin back to life in the space of just one hour.

Wellness is certainly a huge theme in Lech. The town and its inhabitants pride themselves on relaxation and rejuvenation. Locals and tourists are encouraged to take part in holistic activities such as barefoot hiking, sound walking and more.

There is so much to do in Lech and it really is a great destination for skiing. However, if you would prefer to keep your feet firmly on the ground (as opposed to a pair of skis) then Lech won’t disappoint. You can try your hand at some mountain top yoga in the spring, pilates or even a cookery class at the hotel where you can make some delicious local delicacies under the watchful eye of the hotels acclaimed pastry chef.

Wine lovers simply must try the hotel’s wine tasting experience where co-owner Patrick will take you through a superb selection of wines that are certain to impress. If you didn’t love Austrian wine before you arrive in Lech, you will certainly leave Austria with a new passion for the region’s wines.

If you are looking to try a variety of different activities, we recommend that you acquire a ‘My Lech’ card which will give you access to lots of fun things to do in the warmer months in Lech.

From admiring the views from a cable car to taking an e-bike tour where you can navigate your way down the mountain. You can even take a herb hiking tour where you can discover the best that nature has to offer in this pretty town.

Lech is definitely one of the prettiest towns in Austria, so make sure that you add this to your places to stay in 2020 and beyond bucket list.

Book your room – https://arlberghotel.at/en/

Azerbaijan January 27, 2020

Wake Up Here: Ajwa Sultanahmet Hotel Istanbul Turkey

Biting into a sweet, gooey date as I sipped my Turkish tea was the perfect welcome to the Ajwa Sultanahmet Hotel Istanbul Turkey. It even overtook (just slightly, because of my stomach’s rumbling) the fancy car service that transported me from the airport to the hotel.

Experience Luxury and Elegance

The gorgeous Ajwa Sultanahmet Istanbul is exactly that – gorgeous. The stunning architecture is what catches your eye as soon as it is in sight – regardless of the time of the day as either the sun is hitting the walls, making the gold shine strong and the white stone appear to have flecks of pink and blue; or the entire hotel is a glowing building, standing out completely on the corner of the street. The hotel is what I’d imagine a Turkish princess’s first ‘home away from home’ to be. A beautiful grand entrance, stunning and ornate decor – featuring only the best artists’ handiwork – and a private hammam to indulge in a cleansing scrub.

The interiors of the hotel are even more decorative, with the furniture being a mixture of locally-made designs, as well as some from Damascus. The chairs and cabinets feature beautiful Mother of Pearl details and each floor showcases Azerbaijani (or Azeri) artwork on the walls. If you take a liking to this kind of design, be sure to visit the nearby shops which double as art galleries – they sell different pieces of furniture, as well as Persian rugs.

Biting into a sweet, gooey date as I sipped my Turkish tea was the perfect welcome to the Ajwa Sultanahmet Hotel Istanbul Turkey. It even overtook (just slightly, because of my stomach’s rumbling) the fancy car service that transported me from the airport to the hotel.

Experience Luxury and Elegance

The gorgeous Ajwa Sultanahmet Istanbul is exactly that – gorgeous. The stunning architecture is what catches your eye as soon as it is in sight – regardless of the time of the day as either the sun is hitting the walls, making the gold shine strong and the white stone appear to have flecks of pink and blue; or the entire hotel is a glowing building, standing out completely on the corner of the street. The hotel is what I’d imagine a Turkish princess’s first ‘home away from home’ to be. A beautiful grand entrance, stunning and ornate decor – featuring only the best artists’ handiwork – and a private hammam to indulge in a cleansing scrub.

The interiors of the hotel are even more decorative, with the furniture being a mixture of locally-made designs, as well as some from Damascus. The chairs and cabinets feature beautiful Mother of Pearl details and each floor showcases Azerbaijani (or Azeri) artwork on the walls. If you take a liking to this kind of design, be sure to visit the nearby shops which double as art galleries – they sell different pieces of furniture, as well as Persian rugs.

Indulge in Opulence

This stunning artwork continues within the Ajwa hotel rooms; my bathroom door is open as I walk in so I am immediately greeted by beautiful blue patterned tiles and rose gold finishing. Mother of Pearl is present in the furniture and that’s probably all I focus on as, afterwards, my attention was very much so diverted to the large bed that was calling my name. There are 48 Deluxe Rooms (of which I was lucky to secure one) but if you’re looking for something slightly more swish, the hotel offers a Presidential Suite and even separate guesthouses if you’re travelling in a group.

Breakfast at Ajwa is an impressive display. You can opt for the buffet which offers an array of treats: eggs, courgette and spinach fritters, Turkish sausages; pides; labneh – the works. Alternatively, you can order a la carte, including the traditional Turkish breakfast spread…which pretty much includes every item on the buffet and more. I’d definitely recommend a sunrise breakfast as the panoramic view from the restaurant is so pretty – you can see a mixture of the Old City and the Marmara Sea.

Discover the Rich History and Culinary Delights of Istanbul

Lunch and dinner are served on the same top floor, in the Zeferan restaurant and the Azerbaijani chef cooks up a feast every mealtime. Whether plates full of grilled meats, salads and ‘shakh plov’ (a local rice dish) or Sultan’s stew (lamb with aubergine purée) and yoghurt soup; one thing is for certain – I did not go hungry here.

With the Old City right on your doorstep, you’re minutes away from impressive and historical sights such as the Blue Mosque, the Haiga Sophia and Topkapi Palace. The hotel concierge was only too happy to fix me up with a tour guide – I have been to Istanbul before but you learn so much more about the cultural spots with someone who knows all about them. For example, my guide told me that there are over 21,647 tiles making up the Blue Mosque (so named because of the dark blue titles on the interior design and, over time, the name changed from Dark Blue Tiled Mosque to Blue Mosque). Another interesting fact I was told, was that it took 10,000 people to build the Haiga Sophia over five years – and it took 13,000 kg of gold in expenses. My jaw definitely dropped at this point.

Immerse Yourself in Luxury and Tradition

A trip to the famous Grand Bazaar was a hectic but fascinating experience, as I loaded up with spices, ceramics and jewellery. It’s easy to get lost inside – and it’s no wonder as the Grand Bazaar is home to five mosques, two fountains, 67 roads, 40 doors and even a school.

After a busy day of walking the streets of Istanbul, nothing is more appealing than a trip to the hammam I mentioned earlier. The Afiya Spa at the hotel is something everyone should definitely experience. I had received the traditional Turkish treatment before but the hammam room at Ajwa was by far one of the most beautiful I’d seen and well worth a visit. The Turkish Bath treatment takes place in the spa and after a menthol steam room session, I enjoyed a thorough scrubbing. It wasn’t as harsh as I’ve had this treatment before which is fantastic, as you can really relax as you’re getting exfoliated and becoming the cleanest you’ve ever been. Seriously – the cleanest I’ve been in my life.

A magical stay that I would definitely recommend for anyone wanting a boutique hotel experience while being footsteps from the majority of Istanbul’s best gems.

Indulge in Opulence

This stunning artwork continues within the Ajwa hotel rooms; my bathroom door is open as I walk in so I am immediately greeted by beautiful blue patterned tiles and rose gold finishing. Mother of Pearl is present in the furniture and that’s probably all I focus on as, afterwards, my attention was very much so diverted to the large bed that was calling my name. There are 48 Deluxe Rooms (of which I was lucky to secure one) but if you’re looking for something slightly more swish, the hotel offers a Presidential Suite and even separate guesthouses if you’re travelling in a group.

Breakfast at Ajwa is an impressive display. You can opt for the buffet which offers an array of treats: eggs, courgette and spinach fritters, Turkish sausages; pides; labneh – the works. Alternatively, you can order a la carte, including the traditional Turkish breakfast spread. Which pretty much includes every item on the buffet and more. I’d recommend a sunrise breakfast as the panoramic view from the restaurant is so pretty – you can see a mixture of the Old City and the Marmara Sea.

Discover the Rich History and Culinary Delights

Lunch and dinner are served on the same top floor, in the Zeferan restaurant and the Azerbaijani chef cooks up a feast every mealtime. Whether plates full of grilled meats, salads and ‘shakh plov’ (a local rice dish) or Sultan’s stew (lamb with aubergine purée) and yoghurt soup; one thing is for certain – I did not go hungry here.

With the Old City right on your doorstep, you’re minutes away from impressive and historical sights such as the Blue Mosque, the Haiga Sophia and Topkapi Palace. The hotel concierge was only too happy to fix me up with a tour guide – I have been to Istanbul before but you learn so much more about the cultural spots with someone who knows all about them. For example, my guide told me that there are over 21,647 tiles making up the Blue Mosque (so named because of the dark blue titles on the interior design and, over time, the name changed from Dark Blue Tiled Mosque to Blue Mosque). Another interesting fact I was told, was that it took 10,000 people to build the Haiga Sophia over five years – and it took 13,000 kg of gold in expenses. My jaw definitely dropped at this point.

Immerse Yourself in Luxury and Tradition

A trip to the famous Grand Bazaar was a hectic but fascinating experience, as I loaded up with spices, ceramics and jewellery. It’s easy to get lost inside – and it’s no wonder as the Grand Bazaar is home to five mosques, two fountains, 67 roads, 40 doors and even a school.

After a busy day of walking the streets of Istanbul, nothing is more appealing than a trip to the hammam I mentioned earlier. The Afiya Spa at the hotel is something everyone should experience. I had received the traditional Turkish treatment before but the hammam room at Ajwa was by far one of the most beautiful I’d seen and well worth a visit. The Turkish Bath treatment takes place in the spa and after a menthol steam room session, I enjoyed a thorough scrubbing. It wasn’t as harsh as I’ve had this treatment before which is fantastic, as you can relax as you’re getting exfoliated and becoming the cleanest you’ve ever been. Seriously – the cleanest I’ve been in my life.

A magical stay that I would recommend for anyone wanting a boutique hotel experience while being footsteps from the majority of Istanbul’s best gems.

If you’re considering liposuction for enhanced contours, check out our comprehensive guide to liposuction in Turkey on House of Coco. Discover how this procedure can shape your dreams and redefine your silhouette.

Adventures January 16, 2020

Seven Reasons to Visit Santa Barbara in 2020

Rapidly cementing its status as a top destination for foodie travellers, Santa Barbara’s culinary scene has never been better. Situated just two hours north of Los Angeles, California, the region holds all the raw ingredients for great wining, dining and culture – from year-round produce and sustainable seafood to world-class vineyards, not to mention a blossoming art scene to boot. Here’s why you should visit in 2020…

Devour world-class food in fabulous surroundings

In recent years, a flurry of new chefs have arrived in Santa Barbara who are applying a high level of skill to the abundant local produce. Forget stuffy white table cloths and smart dress codes, this city is all about laidback luxury. Serving up some of California’s most innovative dining experiences, a number of recently opened restaurants have been wowing locals and visitors alike. Try Bibi-Ji, Santa Barbara’s first contemporary Indian, serving playful spins on classics with a menu that highlights the local seafood served ‘sea-to-table’, Tyger Tyger, a dynamic 1,900-square-foot marketplace featuring ‘fast-fine’ Southeast Asian cuisine, or Loquita, a lively Spanish-style restaurant in the Funk Zone.

There’s a brand new culinary festival

Santa Barbara is on the cusp of launching a city-wide extravaganza, the Santa Barbara Culinary Experience, presented in partnership with the Julia Child Foundation for Gastronomy and the Culinary Arts. The event, taking place 13-15 March 2020, is a new annual festival celebrating the bounty of what is grown in and around Santa Barbara, including a tasting event showcasing the best of Santa Barbara’s food and drink, hands-on cooking classes, food trend talks, and more. A new map of Julia Child’s favourite Santa Barbara haunts, specially created for release during the Santa Barbara Culinary Experience, will enable visitors to follow in the famous chef’s footsteps any time of year.

…And a burgeoning art scene

In addition to a growing creative scene, which is evident throughout Santa Barbara’s creative Funk Zone, Santa Barbara Museum of Art will reveal a newly expanded, multi-floor wing in spring 2020, housing photography, Asian art and other exciting exhibits. To open the new wing, the museum will host an exhibit on Vincent van Gogh and his influences, “Through Vincent’s Eyes,” in October 2020. By presenting around 15 works of art by Van Gogh alongside more than 125 works of art selected to reflect the surprisingly varied art that he most admired, the landmark exhibition makes Santa Barbara one to watch on the art circuit.

It’s an Instagrammer’s dream

The first thing you’ll notice when you arrive in Santa Barbara is how pretty it is. Spanish colonial style architecture, pristine streets lined with shops, restaurants, wineries and boutiques, a gorgeous harbour and miles of sandy beaches make it a picture-perfect holiday destination. Delve a bit deeper and you’ll find that the interiors really live up to the city’s shiny exterior. Instagram’s great and good stay at the Martyn Lawrence Bullard-designed Hotel Californian, where Spanish colonial revival architecture and a modern Moorish vibe combine, creating a design infusion begging to be photographed.

It’s the perfect spot to rosé (or pinot) all day

Celebrating its 15th anniversary, the cult-classic film Sideways brought worldwide fame for Santa Barbara wine country. Wine consumption increased in general while the demand for elegant, and highly quaffable, pinot noir shot up. The Oscar-winning movie was filmed almost entirely on-location throughout Solvang and the Santa Ynez Valley in Santa Barbara County. Nowadays, you don’t need to trawl from vineyard to vineyard to get your hands on some of the destination’s celebrated bottles. Santa Barbara’s Urban Wine Trail offers both novices and aficionados the opportunity to learn about and taste the wines of many different varieties and styles crafted by the County’s best winemakers. 30 wineries across the California city now make up the trail and can be explored by foot, bike or taxi.

Relax in the lap of luxury

Accommodation in Santa Barbara comes in many shapes and sizes. Curl up in a hillside hideaway like the iconic Belmond El Encanto, immerse yourself right in the action at Harbor View Inn’s brand new downtown wing or relax in the lap of luxury at Rosewood Miramar Beach Montecito, which opened just last year. On a budget? No bother. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez Mountains, lies El Capitan Canyon, a resort boasting fully furnished cedar-lined cabins with vaulted ceilings and French doors opening onto El Capitan Beach and offering incredible ocean views.

Live the true California beach life

After soaking the city’s food and culture, it’s time to hit the beach. With miles of sun-drenched and sandy coastline, there’s a spot to suit every type of traveller, from surf-seekers to families. Dog lovers should head to Arroyo Burro Beach, better known to locals as Hendry’s Beach, where pooches revel on the dog-friendly flat sands. If surfing is your bag, Leadbetter Beach is best for catching waves, while sophisticates will enjoy the pristine sands of Butterfly Beach, where cocktails can be taken at the nearby Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara. Heading closer to town, family-friendly East Beach is located next to Stearns Wharf, with lifeguard stations, a playground and cafés.

Brazil January 12, 2020

Lisbons Most Luxe Rooftop Pools

Lisbon is located across seven sprawling hills, and is a fascinating city, with a long and interesting history. Famous for its tiled buildings, Pasteis de Belem and distinctive yellow trams, Lisbon offers travellers some of the most comfortable weather in Europe, with warm winters and mild summers. For those seeking indulgence, Lisbons Most Luxe Rooftop Pools provide the perfect escape, offering stunning views of the cityscape while basking in luxury.

Portugal’s coastal capital city offers visitors a never-ending list of cultural must-sees, from the imposing São Jorge Castle to the incredible views from the Alfama district, and the city’s Ponte 25 de Abril suspension bridge, to the iconic Time Out Lisbon. And if the city isn’t enough, located only 30 minutes outside of the city is the beachside town of Cascais, where you can sit back with an Aperol in hand, and the world-famous Sintra, where you can capture that perfect Instagram shot.

The capital city of Portugal is also home to some of the most amazing rooftop pools, some with rooftop bars to make your visit even more memorable, and some pools that are offer the most magical views of the city – you can thank us later!

Top 6 Rooftop Pools in Lisbon

HF Fénix Music Hotel

One of the music lovers in your life; the HF Fénix Music Hotel was born to provide all its guests with a musical experience right in the heart of Lisbon. This hotel is unique, and combines music and style, within its oasis overlooking the city. On the top floor, you will find an outdoor swimming pool, a terrace and a garden, where you can swim under the sky of Lisbon

EPIC SANA Lisboa Hotel

The rooftop pool at The Epic Sana Lisboa is one of the coolest pools we’ve ever seen, and offers guests some of the most amazing views across the city. Located on the ninth floor, the EPIC Sana Lisboa hotel infinity pool is most stunning at sunset, when you can grab yourself a drink from the rooftop bar, and admire the golden glow. Also within the hotel, downstairs you’ll find a large indoor pool complete with fountains and relaxation area.

PortoBay Marquês

PortoBay offers a slightly smaller pool than EPIC, but the views are just as amazing. The rooftop plunge pool is small but worthy, and the terrace also has sun loungers for five people. The rooftop area provides a tranquil space for guests to relax after a long day exploring Lisbon. The hotel is also beautiful, with an emphasis on homely interiors and excellent service. PortoBay Marquês is an excellent base for those seeking well-being and comfort in the heart of the city.

NH Collection Lisboa Liberdade

Another gem in Lisbon, NH Collection Lisbon Liberdade is a stunning hotel, located close to the main tourist spots in the city, on Avenida de Liberdade, one of the most famous streets in Lisbon, due to it’s designer shops, trendy cafes and tree-lined avenue. The hotel’s rooftop pool on the 11th floor, with bar and terrace offers hotel guests the opportunity to unwind in the evening with a tasty cocktail.

Memmo Alfama Hotel Lisboa

Memmo Alfama Hotel was surprisingly once a shoe polish factory but today is a stylish hotel located around the corner from São Jorge Castle and the River Tagus. The hotel’s unique selling point is their amazing rooftop pool which offers tourists the most amazing views across the city. The sleek decor, bold street art and amazing terrace pool bar make this Lisbon top of our list.

Jupiter Lisboa Hotel

Jupiter Lisboa is a new hotel in the city of Lisbon, and is perfectly located between Saldanha and Campo Pequeno, featuring a panoramic rooftop with two gorgeous outdoor swimming pools. The hotel also has a wonderful spa and a famous Portuguese restaurant. This hotel is the more family-friendly option if you are travelling with children.

Altis Belém Hotel & Spa

And last, but not least, the stunning Altis Belém Hotel & Spa is a wonderful five-star hotel in Belem, Lisbon, and overlooks the iconic Tagus River. Here you can find the signature Restaurant Feitoria (One Michelin Star) and the Spa BSpa by Karin Herzog, with a rooftop pool and bar offering panoramic views.

Adventures January 7, 2020

wake up here: Anantara Iko Resort, Mauritius

Nestled on the serine south-eastern coast of Mauritius you will find Le Chaland Beach, an unspoilt stretch of golden sand lying alongside a rich, deep turquoise ocean that is home to Anantara Iko Resort.

This sun kissed island in the Indian Ocean is magical and doesn’t disappoint. It lived up to everything I expected, unblemished shorelines, natural wonders, culture and a dash of luxury courtesy of Anantara, a new deluxe five-star resort that successfully combines authentic Mauritius with high end sustainable chic.

Just 100m from the beach and enveloped in a lush green nature reserve, this secluded hotel has made a conscious effort to blend in with its stunning surroundings and where possible use sustainable initiatives to preserve the natural environment. The resort successfully brings the beauty of the outdoors indoors using lots of locally sourced materials around the property. Recycled volcanic stone combined with a scattering of driftwood crafted by local artisans, touch everything from the reception, bedrooms and restaurants. At the heart of the resort is the spectacular 30-metre ozone-based infinity pool which uses fewer chemicals and is more efficient than a regular pool. Other eco touches include solar technology for water heating in all the guest rooms, water is reused for irrigation and cleaning and the food waste goes out to local farms.

Each of the 164 stylish rooms and suites are spacious and sophisticated with clean lines and minimal décor enhanced with a splash of ocean blue and wood making it feel warm and welcoming. Wake up and take in the views of the Indian Ocean or flourishing tropical gardens direct from your day bed on the balcony. For me the measure of a hotel is in the bathroom and I loved the large double sinks and rain shower but the jewel in the crown was the free standing bathtub that dominated the room, perfect for a long soak at the end of the day. Eight luxury Pool Villas will be available to book from April 2020.

Anantara is a foodie’s dream, under the watchful eye of Executive Chef, Didier Jacob the resort offers multiple dining options that reflect the island’s rich cultural heritage. Taste the authentic flavours and influences of Mauritius at one of the amazing five restaurants. For me, staying at Anantara was a real culinary experience. I got to jump into the Island’s foodie culture and savour cuisine with French, Indian and Creole influences. A huge highlight was the private dining offer where you can indulge in something a bit special with your own bespoke menu, personal chef and private butler. The hotel set up a private table on the beach where I got to soak up the remarkable setting, outstanding views of the ocean and enjoy some delicious dishes under the stars.

It’s easy to relax at Anantara, kick back and get into the Mauritian vibe. The team of attentive staff quickly make you feel welcome and go all out to make sure you enjoy your stay. Reset and reconnect at the onsite spa where you can unwind with a range of therapeutic treatments including traditional massage therapies, detox treatments and hammam wellness. My energy levels are always high and at times I struggle to wind it down a notch so retreating to the spa was a great way for me to switch off and slow down. I soon loosened up with one of the signature massages and a few days into my stay I was back for the hammam treatment, I left feeling relaxed yet invigorated.

There’s plenty to do on this south east corner of the island, if you don’t want to relax on the beach or by the pool. Just 15 minutes’ drive away is Mahebourg, a cute picture postcard town with a pretty harbour and vibrant, bustling market, perfect for exploring. Don’t leave without swimming in the Indian Ocean, take a catamaran trip to get a unique view of this beautiful island, catch the sunset and go for a swim before heading back to shore. Mauritius is steeped in history and the hotel hosts campfire chats on the beach after dinner with their resident ‘Man in Mauritius’, Marcel Noe, who brings to life the island’s historic battles between the British and French. Enjoy the anecdotal tales delivered with knowledge and passion while roasting marshmallows over the fire. A little further away is Black River Gorges National Park, famous for its waterfalls, vistas and hiking, and for the more adventurous, quad biking and zip lining.

Whether you’re a beach lover, culture and history buff, nature enthusiast, foodie or sporty adventurer, Anantara has something for everyone and I can’t way to go back. Mauritius you really were something special!

A stay at Anantara Iko Mauritius Resort costs from £335 (390 Euros) per room per night on a half board basis. For more information visit www.anantara.com