Centrally-located and super stylish, the Gallery Hotel Art is Florence’s first design hotel and boy does it pack a punch!
Part of the esteemed Lungarno Collection, the Gallery Hotel Art is nestled away on a quiet quaint little piazzetta with oodles of historic charm, just off the north bank of the Arno, and is only a hop, skip and jump away from the renowned Ponte Vecchio.
If stylish abodes are pivotal when it comes to your hotel, then the Gallery Hotel Art is absolute design goals. It’s an ideal place for art lovers as the hotel doubles as a contemporary art space.
The decor is the brainchild of interior designer Michele Bönan who has effortlessly fused Asian elegance with a minimalist yet contemporary Tuscan aesthetic.
Think neutral easy colours, modern lines, materials in a luxuriant fabric like leather, cashmere and linen in a neutral palette (many of which have been hand-crafted in Florence itself) and an abundance of art in the shared areas.
There are ever-changing exhibitions of contemporary photographers (both Italian and beyond) and this 4 star design and boutique hotel is a favourite meeting place in the heart of Florence amongst fashion, art, and stylish people.
It’s a truly relaxing but inspiring environment, each of the 74 rooms are decorated in cream, tranquil hues that offer a peaceful and calming haven.
Think crisp white bed linen, buttersoft cashmere throws, gingham curtains, polished wood floors, pale walls with black and white prints of beloved Florence architecture adorning the walls.
The minimalist vibe can also be found in the contemporary bathrooms which are composed of soft honey-coloured travertine marble with a sunken bath and are equipped with robes, slippers and luxury toiletries.
Our room was high up with an enclosed balcony and we were afforded incredible far-reaching views of the city and awe-inspiring buildings like the Palazzo Vecchio.
One of the best places to retreat to is the calming library where you can submerge in one of the squishy deep sofas with a coffee and read one of the arty tomes.
There’s also a lively bar and the Fusion Bar & Restaurant which offers some of the best Japanese cuisine (and indeed some pretty amazing cocktails) you will find in the country.
Of course, what’s one of the key considerations when booking a hotel? The obligatory hotel breakfast of course and at the Gallery Hotel Art, it’s a good one! Primarily it’s a continental affair, but you can upgrade to a cooked breakfast.
All diets are catered for and the hotel serves some pretty amazing fresh juices and coffee as well as some delectable pastries.
Whilst the hotel doesn’t have an abundance of facilities, guests can take advantage of the facilities on offer at its sister hotel including the luxury spa at The Continentale which is located near by.
Best of all, the hotel is totally pet-friendly so if you are travelling with your four-legged favourite furry friend, you don’t have to worry. They can stay for just €50 for the entirety of their stay where they can enjoy their own comfy bed, bowl and treats.
Sleek, sophisticated and serene, we can’t help thinking that the Gallery Hotel Art is an exceptional hotel with a centralissima location and a discreetly luxurious atmosphere that we adore.
Culture vultures looking for a splash of authentic Mallorcan art can check into the Kimpton Aysla Mallorca and immerse themselves in their very own art exhibition. Situated in the town of Santa Ponsa, only 14 km from Palma de Mallorca and 20 minutes from its airport, guests of Kimpton Aysla Mallorca can enjoy its incredible on-site facilities while soaking up a plethora of outstanding artwork.
This stylish hotel, designed by architect Guillermo Reynés, opened its doors in October and is the backdrop to a Contemporary Art Collection commissioned by ABA ART LAB. The five-star property showcases 700 pieces of artwork from photography, sculptures, paintings and installations. Each piece has been created by a local artist and has been featured due to its Mediterranean, pure, timeless and cosmopolitan qualities. All the artists and designers stand out for their solid artistic career and their presence in various important collections of contemporary art.
Explore the hotel and you will stumble across stunning paintings, unique sculptures and installations that all weave organically into the fabric of the building. From the moment you enter the hotel your visual senses are stimulated as you are greeted by a showstopper piece, hanging behind the reception desk. Created by renowned Catalan artist, Regina Gimenez, ‘Door to light’, is a stunning textile mural using natural fibres, fabrics and wool from Mallorca transforming the space with neutral, white and toasted tones. With different textures, light layers and warm shades that create depth is easy to see why this takes pride of place in the lobby.
Throughout the hotel you will spot works from the likes of Mercedes Laguens, Antoni Pedraza and Bàrbara Juan. In each of the bedrooms the back wall displays a striking piece of art and the shelves are dotted with vases and sculptures bringing creativity to the heart of the property.
You’d imagine that so many pieces of artwork would bring chaos to the hotel aesthetic and design, but Reynes and ABA ART LAB have ensured that each work slots into the hotel design and is sympathetic to the space.
ABA ART LAB is an exhibition, curatorship and production of contemporary art company founded in September 2004, in Palma de Mallorca. They have their own exhibition and gallery space and curate, as well as produce some of the most important collections for private clients, companies and luxury brands.
This impressive property close to Palma, embraces the local art scene while combining the luxury and style that is synonymous with Kimpton, a must stay for design lovers.
To book a room visit Kimpton Aysla Mallorca prices start from €350 per night during winter and from €600 per night during summer season.
Introducing you to the 25hours Hotel Piazza San Paolino in Florence, Italy
Quirky, cool and decadent, when Music Editor Emma Harrison checked into the 25hours Hotel Piazza San Paolino in Florence, she wasn’t disappointed.
Not only is it ideally located in central Florence in the Santa Maria Novella district, it’s also one of a handful of hotels where you can park your car which is somewhat of a rarity in this city.
What’s striking about this hotel is the eclectic design and decor. If you are looking for pure unadulterated maximalism, then this is the hotel for you. The design of the hotel, conceived by interior designer Paola Navone and her team, is utterly inimitable.
Inspired by the Italian poet Dante’s Divine Comedy, this hotel is rich, indulgent and extravagant, There’s references to this powerful piece of work throughout the hotel and in particular the luxurious bedrooms.
Scenes from heaven and hell are playfully alternated and the designs guide you through the virtues and vices of Dante’s world.
Do you favour vices or virtues? The choice is yours! Dante’s world has been interpreted gloriously by the very talented Paola Navone making the 25hours hotel one of the most intriguing in Florence, if not the whole of Tuscany.
The room we stayed in was unapologetically red representing hell in Dante’s universe. The ‘Heaven’ rooms in contrast are a smidge less dramatic on the eyes in hues of pristine alabaster white with only tiny contrasts of colour in a celestial navy in the shape of signs depicting the message ‘Fly to Heaven’.
If you are in ‘Hell’, you won’t want to leave (well at least from a room perspective that is) from the comfy-as-hell bed adorned in luxurious linen to the wild ‘Dante’ lamps which dangle fiery labels depicting the names of the sinners of Hell that cascade down which makes for quite the design statement.
The walls are embellished with vinyl wallpaper, with motifs designed by Studio Otto-Paola Navone and despite the lavish colour doesn’t make the room feel small or claustrophobic.
Even the wet room is incredibly lavish with messages from Dante splashed over the door. Even the mirrors are daubed with thunderous messages like ‘Welcome to Hell’. There’s even a sweet little outdoor area and an outdoor shower (if you feel a little ‘devil-may-care’ – yes, we went there!)
All rooms have complimentary minibars (where you can enjoy a beer or two, soft drinks, water and snacks), there’s also free toiletries,Bluetooth speakers, smart televisions and useful messenger bags for when you take a sojourn around the city.
The shared spaces are equally sexy – around every corner, there’s a stellar collection of objet d’art, graffiti, curiosities and retro-inspired pieces like rotary telephones all in sleek blacks and vibrant reds of course! The lobby and reception area is an absolute triumph.
Straight away your eyes are drawn to the intriguing installation composed of a collection of vintage suitcases which house everything from bottles of beauty products to cute little stuffed monkey toys. There’s also ceramic plates in pale shades of blue plates that are decorated with hand-crafted drawings by Ceramiche Nicola Fasan.
Despite being a city-centre hotel, there’s no scrimping on amenities. In fact, some might say they are ‘devilishly’ good!
There’s a cinema room – the ‘Cinema Paradiso’; a library with a billiard table, record player and of course some books! There’s even a spa with a Turkish bath and sauna to while away the hours in.
In the heart of the hotel, in the centre of the historic building that houses the hotel, is the San Paolino restaurant located under the huge glass dome
Eating and drinking in the San Paolino restaurant is a charm – it’s located in the lively centre of the historic palazzo and leads on to a lush courtyard garden which is a mesmerising fusion of tuscan vases, plant pots and jars in Tuscan terracotta and oversized plants.
There’s also a traditional Negroni bar and a bakery chock-full of traditional snacks. The menu offers an array of exquisite Tuscan dishes and the restaurant is also where guests can enjoy a fantastic breakfast. All dietary requirements are catered for and I can wholeheartedly recommend it.
If you are looking for an utterly mesmerising and instagrammable bolthole when in Florence, then a stay at the 25hours Hotel Piazza San Paolino is devilishly decadent and we say Hell yes to this iconic hotel!
Stay – Double rooms from €139 (£118) in low season, and from €290 (£247) in high. Breakfast included. Free Wi-Fi.
You may not have thought about Greece as a winter break destination but if you like stylish city breaks and fancy somewhere significantly warmer than the UK, head to Athens and stay at the Gatsby.
I immediately got cosy Christmas vibes as I entered under the shimmering baubles and wreaths of the reception area and was treated to a freshly squeezed orange juice as I checked in.
The boutique 33-room Gatsby is located right in the centre of Athens, within a short walk of the Athenian landmarks of Monastiraki and Syntagma Squares. Opened just last year, it is located down the winding narrow streets of the historic quarter, but you know you’ve arrived because the stylish outdoor seating area is constantly filled with Athenians sipping champagne and sharing small plates from the all-day menu.
For those who appreciate surprising, quirky features, the Gatsby Athens is for you. I loved exploring my spacious room with its personalised smart TV, hidden treats and state-of-the art panel to adjust lighting settings to suit the mood, from ‘naughty’ to ‘cosy’.
All the furniture is bespoke, including most of the lighting fixtures which were designed by the Michaelis Boyd team and locally produced. Upgraded rooms come with Juliet balconies or even terraces with private outdoor sitting areas, an outdoor cinema and jacuzzi hot tubs.
I was quick to jump into my in-room bathtub and soak in the fragrance of the Ortigia amenities provided in preparation for the Gatsby-style evening to come.
One of my favourites aspects of the hotel is its idiosyncratic design. The setting evokes the glamour of mid-1930 Athens with an eco-twist. While the bedrooms feature signature pastel pink headboards, diamond tiled showers, golden wardrobes and velvet corner sofas, the small luxury spa room and gym can be found in hidden rooms and through secret passageways in the basement, putting a true Gatsby spin on the feel of the local area.
After drinks by the fire on the rooftop, I was quite blown away by the food. Ingredients are fresh from the market and dishes are beautifully done. For dinner, we enjoyed handmade pasta with shimeji mushrooms, chicken cocotte with potato crisps and lemon oregano sauce and a salad of green apple, avocado and pistachio. Washed down of course with local Greek beer and a sampling of the Gatsby cocktails, as recommended by the friendly bar staff.
As day turned to night, so did Gatsby. The lights went down, the crowd slowly changed and the DJ eased into his set. And don’t miss the Athens party scene, from the Clumsies Bar (number four in the world´s 50 best bars) to the afro beats from the Gazi club area, just a short walk away from the hotel.
The soft bedding, in-room coffee machine and delicious breakfast were the perfect antidote to the night-before. We leisurely enjoyed the bread and pastry basket with avocado on toast and eggs royale. It was also a real treat to enjoy breakfast outside in the mild Greek winter sun.
Put the Gatsby Hotel Athens on your winter break bucket list if, like the House of Coco team, you appreciate luxury with unique design, excellent food, a stylish yet relaxed vibe and lots of fun.
Gatsby Athens (https://gatsbyathens.com/ or +30 21 0321 6001) offers stays from 107EUR / £92 based on 2 people sharing a double standard room on a B&B basis.
Ask Icelanders what they are most proud of, and the likely reply is their seafood. This island, at the confluence of the North Atlantic and Arctic oceans, boasts the lowest population density in Europe. Its geographic location means the country is blessed with an abundance of fresh seafood meaning it is unrivalled as a top seafood foodie destination. We travelled along the lesser-travelled South-west coast to discover the breathtaking scenery and the awe-inspiring cuisine.
Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Often called “miniature Iceland”, it is the long, slim peninsula that juts out of Iceland facing the North Atlantic Ocean to the west. It has a jaw-dropping landscape with mythical mountains. Games of Throne enthusiasts will recognise many scenes from the series being filmed in this area. Most of the 5000 inhabitants in the area live on the north side of the peninsula in fishing villages that are as old as Iceland’s original settlement.
If you want luxury remoteness, the place to check in is at Hotel Búðir. It is a great place to observe the northern lights in the wintertime. You are mere steps away from the iconic black church. And the restaurant at the hotel is widely regarded as one of the best in Iceland working with producers in the locality. Common dishes you will see not just at this restaurant but in others include arctic char, shellfish soup and cod fillet. Here, they add their personal refined touches, so with the latter, you get langoustine velouté for extra umami-richness and baked hazelnut for textural variety.
The first port of call from the hotel I would recommend is Arnarstapi. An ancient path along the coastline passing through ravines and grottoes makes for a dramatic hiking trail. You will spot a small-scale fishing port along with dozens of birds like the kittiwake and the Arctic tern. Next head to Hellnar which had the largest fishing village beneath the Snaefellsjokull ice cap. The peculiar caves and rock formations are a photographer’s dream. There is also a charming beach cafe, Fjöruhúsið, which serves anything from Pönnukökur (Icelandic pancakes) to sea urchin feasts.
For lunch, head to the family-owned, Viðvík Restaurant. It might be at a remote destination, but judging by all the rave reviews online, it’s a trek worth making. Dishes have a very Nordic feel and include outrageously fresh scallops served in a langoustine bisque and a moreish pan-fried cod with a cauliflower trio, dill pesto and kale.
You will know fishing is the lifeblood of the community when you visit The Maritime Museum in the Fishermen´s Park which has fascinating exhibits like the largest fish caught in the community. Nearby you’ll find the hectic harbour of Rif, where you might spot fishing vessels returning to the harbour with their catch of the day.
Bjargarsteinn in Grundarfjörður
This is one of the most incredible restaurants you will come across in the region. Not least the story of how the restaurant was built. It is a quaint old house built in 1908 in Akranes but was transported 140 kilometres to its current location, as the owners saw the potential for it to be a restaurant. The owners wanted a new location with spectacular scenery, and they have with the magnificent coastal ridge in the seaside village of Grundarfjörður. The menu is a collection of lovable hand doodles from the chef and includes rarely seen dishes like smoked puffin and fillet, tongue and cheek of Arctic cod. If you get chatting with their personable staff, they may even let you try the infamous fermented shark along with a shot of “black death”. Upstairs in the cosy living quarters, they have a recording studio for their regular podcasts.
The face of new Nordic cuisine
If you want to understand the latest trends in Icelandic gastronomy then you must meet/follow Viktor Örn Andrésson. With countless accolades like Nordic chef of the year and previously running Blue Lagoon’s LAVA restaurant, he is the forefather of a new wave for the Icelandic culinary scene. He currently runs a catering company but does occasionally offer cookery workshops which I would highly recommend attending. You can learn about the different types of fish in the region, how to fillet a fish and even try the likes of redfish sashimi.
Stykkisholmur
Finally, I recommend heading to this centre of commerce and services for the local area. I say ‘centre’, but have to caveat by saying it is only a town with a population of about 1,100 people. However, the quality of the seafood restaurants there is surprisingly superlative. Sjávarpakkhúsið is a great venue for lunch with tapas-style dishes for sharing. You’ll come across several dishes you won’t ever see in the UK like halibut tartare with chives, apple and horseradish mayo and wolffish with celeriac salad, whey and brown butter.
If, like me, you are a fan of seafood platters then you’ll be in seafood heaven at Narfeyrarstofa. Icelandic scallops, giant whelks, and umami-rich sea urchins are all on offer. You can try salted cod (bacalao) fried in Icelandic butter or even fish and chips in a light tempura batter.
Travelling around this remote part of the island does require time, but if you plan out your itinerary well, it is a culinary adventure well worth embarking on. The standard of seafood is above and beyond what you can find in continental Europe.
Earlier this month our Editor in Chief Laura and I took a week-long girls trip to Dubai (which you can read all about HERE).
We ended our trip with two magical nights at the Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort (which feels like you’re on a Maldivian island, it’s truly stunning!).
During our stay I was so inspired by the beach-y decor; the woven lighting, solid wood tables and splashes of teal – I instantly knew I had to create a “get the look” to help you re-create this beautiful decor within your home!
Where? Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort: East Crescent, Palm – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
As your car pulls onto the forecourt of Anantara The Palm, you instantly feel yourself relax into the surroundings; a world away from the hustle and bustle of Dubai lies this slice of luxury welcomes you with open arms.
Upon arrival you’re instantly transported back to Thailand, greeting of “Sawadee” ring out around the lobby, fresh lemongrass drinks are served with cold refreshing towels upon check in. The lobby stands in grandeur with it dark wooden atrium, fresh flowers and friendly staff ready to help you feel at home. After a tour of the resort we made our way to our Over Water Villa (the first of its kind across the Middle East – a great claim that Anantara The Palm stands proud on), we arrived as the sun was setting across The Palm from our villa, it was a magical way to start our stay.
Room categories?
Anantara The Palm is a family friendly resort, if you’re looking to travel with children then the “Lagoon Access” rooms are for you; giving you direct access to one of the three temperature-controlled swimming lagoons.
Multiple room categories ensure that there’s something for everyone, from lagoon access rooms to pool villas and over water villas.
We had the pleasure of spending two nights in an over water villa; the UAE’s first and only of it’s kind. Relax on your sun soaked terrace, in your private cabana or take a soak in your tub overlooking the water.
Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort – Premier Lagoon View Room from AED 900/£209 (excluding taxes) for two people inclusive of Breakfast. To book visit www.anantara.com/palm-dubai
Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort – Junior Ocean View Suite from AED 1500/£348 (excluding taxes) for two people inclusive of Breakfast. To book visit www.anantara.com/world-islands-dubai
The dining options?
On our first night we dined at Mekong; Anantara’s Thai cuisine restaurant; you feel like you’ve stepped into Thailand the moment you’re through the door. Dine on Asian delicacies, from signature curry dishes to dumplings and Pad Thai – the food is truly delicious.
Our second night saw us journeying to Australia at Bushman’s for upscale Aussie dining here at Anantara The Palm. Experience the taste of the outback with Wagyu steaks, BBQ dishes and locally caught fish – this restaurant offers a luxury dining experience Down Under.
Dining options you’ll find atAnantaraThe Palm:
The Beach House; casual Mediterranean dining Mekong; traditional Asian cuisine Crescendo; global and regional fare Bushman’s restaurant and bar; upscale Aussie dining The Lotus Lounge; laid back lounging Revo cafe; all-day boardwalk restaurant Dining by design; custom culinary journey Mai bar; poolside terrace and swim up bar
Need to know?
Located on the world-famous Palm Jumeirah just off the coast of Dubai, Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort boasts 400 metres of private shoreline and expansive views of the Arabian Gulf.
On site you’ll find water sports and long-tail boat experiences, wellness programmes at Anantara Spa, kids clubs and multiple dining options making Anantara The Palm the perfect place to escape the everyday on your trip to Dubai.
The Varsity hotel is an amalgamation of old meets new, modern flare coupled with nods to yesteryear. In one swift movement you are welcomed through a very instagrammable flower arch, into an unassuming reception area and up to rooms steeped in the history of Cambridge, all rooms being named after the university colleges within the city and complete with corresponding yet understated decorative touches. With floor to ceiling windows boasting a view over St John’s college, a mahogany style writing desk and luxe heavy curtains juxtaposed against in-room tablets offering a variety of services at the end of one’s finger, Elemis bathroom goodies and geometric patterned finishings, this hotel is a great execution of days gone by still holding their own in a modern setting.
The hotel itself is situated in a very quiet residential street, moments from Jesus Green Park and sitting on the banks of the River Cam and its bustling punting station, bars and restaurants. A quick stumble and you are in the heart of the city, a haven for both shoppers and sightseers. However, the real USP of this hotel is not its location, nor its onsite spa and restaurants – more on that later – but the views it boasts. The vista offered from our bedroom window was only the foreplay, the main event being a rooftop bar with 360, unparalleled, uncompromised view of one of the UK’s most beautiful cities. Open to both the public and residents, this little pocket of paradise is the perfect place to sip a cocktail and while away the hours as the sun sets.
The one thing the hotel drops points on is the food. Don’t get me wrong it’s not bad, it’s just not fantastic and given the food scene that has developed in Cambridge, it needs to be. We ate at The River Bar Steakhouse and Grill which is in the neighboring building, a repurposed brewery warehouse that is all exposed brick and trusswork. This place could work really well with a few tweaks – riverside warehouse eatery serving up red meat and red wine calls for low lighting and atmosphere. Instead we were greeted by stark lights and orange leatherette seats. That I can forgive if the food makes up for it. What I can’t forgive is a countertop storage unit in view of everyone dining, housing pre-cut slices of cheesecake and catering sized tubs of ketchup and mayo ready to be decanted into a nearby ramekin. If that’s how you’re going to do it, fine, but at least do it back of house or out of sight of customers that are spending a fair chunk of money on plates of food that the condiments are no doubt going to be slung on to.
Between the two of us we ordered Garlic Butter Tiger Prawns and Calamari to start followed by a New York Strip and a Wagyu. The starters were OK. I lucked out with the calamari, it was as it should be, golden, crispy, no slime, very punchy aioli. My friend’s prawns (which were not of the tiger variety, perhaps a tiger cub in a pinch) were slightly anemic and considering we were in a grill restaurant, it would have been nice to see a bit of char, or any form of colour to be fair. I gave the restaurant the benefit of the doubt, this was indeed a Steakhouse and perhaps the main courses were where it really shone. Being an absolute slag for a steak, I poured over the menu for a good while, wondering if I could justify the £89 price tag that went with the Wagyu – after much circling back I thought f**k it, you only live once right? World’s ending and all that jazz. I ordered my steak medium rare as suggested with this cut. Alas, when my steak arrived it was most definitely rare, very rare. Now I have no problem with rare meat, give it to me blue and I am happy but for a steak costing the best part of a hundy and showing the cut the respect it deserves by ordering it as recommended, it was a bit of a disappointment and so a steak that is famed for being the tenderest of all the steaks was in actuality tough and not of the melt in the mouth variety. My advice would be to scrap the theatrics of the cloche and artsy plate and in fact concentrate on cooking the thing correctly. The New York strip that sat across the table from me was also nearing average rather than stupendous. A cut that isn’t seen too often in UK restaurants, I was excited to stab a piece off my friend’s plate but again – there seemed to be more focus on the criss cross griddle marks and unnecessary skillet it was served in than the actual cooking of the meat. I will say this – you could absolutely taste the difference between both cuts and the Wagyu was superior, but £60 superior? I’m not so sure.
What the restaurant lacked in finesse of food it made up for with both its front of house team and ridiculous but delicious cocktail menu. I know this isn’t the reason you visit a restaurant but it truly turned the experience around for me. Our wonderful waiter Sibu looked after us as if we were the only people in the restaurant ( he didn’t know we were there as press). Wine glasses never ran empty, attentive but not overbearing, as the restaurant emptied out he pulled up a chair and sat with us for a bit, discussing how the hospitality industry differs in his native South Africa – warm and friendly, to the more robotic nature of the UK. Perhaps it was the bottle of red, the champagne cocktail to start or the nutella martini to finish but it really made me think about how the front of house team really are the first line of defense when it comes to a positive eating experience. Quick circle back, I would actually go back to this restaurant just for the Nutella Martini – it was absolute filth and I loved it.
The next morning, with slightly sore heads we headed to SIX for breakfast. Situated on the floor below the roof terrace, despite being a floor lower, the wrap-around windows still offer an impressive view point of the city, really leaning to the ‘breakfast with a backdrop’ vibe. The continental breakfast was average – as I have come to expect with UK continental breakfasts, slightly under-ripe fruit and toasting machines that never really work. To gear up for a day of sightseeing I opted for Eggs Benedict from the a la carte menu, my absolute favourite breakfast in the world and I would go as far as to say I am an expert when it comes to an eggs benny. Fluffy muffin – check. Rich, unctuous hollandaise check. Slightly greying salmon, check. Undercooked eggs that I would have sent back if I had not been in a rush, check. We were close, so close, but alas no cigar.
Putting the food portion of our trip behind us, it was time for our spa treatments. The health club and spa is in the adjoining building and again, open to both residents and the public. The offering is small but well laid out and intimate with nice touches such as flavoured water and tea to welcome you. A hot tub bubbles away in an atmospheric cavernous room overlooking the river with well thought out one way glass. The perfect spot to people watch and take in the punts as they bob past. A sauna and steam room do exactly what they say on the tin and make for a perfectly pleasant way to reset from the night before ahead of a day of exploration. After an hour of bobbing and sweating we were whisked upstairs to the couples treatment room – very romantic – where we were treated to the signature facial and massage. The treatments were exceptional. I was nervous at first when our therapists came to get us and looked like they should still be in school, however on reflection I think this is a ‘me ageing’ problem and not a them problem. I need not have worried, they were informative and good at what they do – young smooth hands kneading us both into a slumber. If only they knew the sore knuckle joints that await them.
All in all, our stay at The Varisty was great – the perfect place for a girly getaway or a romantic minibreak. Yes, there are things that could be improved upon but it made a great base to explore the city, enjoy a drink with a view and live our best collegiate lives. My advice would be to use this as a settlement site, enjoy the bars and the views. Make the most of the spa and then explore everything that is on its doorstep and the wonderful things that Cambridge has to offer.
From spectacular South African safari lodges to chic Parisian stays, we have the new kids on the hotel block to inspire some serious wanderlust. So, dust off your passport and start planning your next trip.
Located south of Tulum in the Sian Ka’an biosphere, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Casa Chablé will offer true barefoot luxury, ultimate seclusion, and immersion in nature on a private islet untouched stretch of Quintana Roo’s Caribbean coast. The adventure begins at the entrance to the biosphere, where guests are whisked away by private boat for a scenic 35-minute ride through lush mangrove forests before reaching the resort’s private dock. There, guests enter the world of Casa Chablé, a pristine islet featuring five standalone beachfront bungalows with outdoor showers, and a main villa housing five guest suites, each with their own private terrace. The property also includes a thatched-roof gourmet restaurant, an oceanfront wellness cabana, gym, outdoor wellness esplanade for yoga and meditation, a rooftop lounge and bar overlooking sunset views, and a private beach.
Rates begin at £446 per night, based on double occupancy, with full property buyouts available from £4,950 for up to 22 people. Seasonal rates will apply.
Situated in the beating artistic heart of the legendary St-Germain-des-Prés on the bustling Left Bank and embracing all this culturally rich neighbourhood has to offer, this hotel will reignite the cutting-edge, diverse and liberal cultural movement that Picasso, Hemingway, Coco Chanel and The Fitzgerald’s to name a few established in this area over 100 years ago. Highlights will include the Nouvelle Vague movie set interiors designed by internationally renowned Paris-based designer Raphael Navot – look forward to unique, beautiful spaces that seamlessly blend intricate colours and textures into a sensory voyage, an effervescent Rooftop Bar with unrivalled 360-degree views of the City of Lights and incredible culinary experiences masterminded by the former F&B leader for The Experimental Group.
The Homestead is a 12-suite eco-conscious ultra-luxury lodge located on the Nambiti reserve in South Africa set to debut in 2023. Just two and a half hours from Durban and four hours from Johannesburg, the Nambiti reserve is regarded as one of South Africa’s most ambitious conservation initiatives and one of the few reserves where the majesty of the Big 5 (lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant and rhino) and over 50 species of wildlife can be experienced free from the threat of malaria. The Homestead will redefine the eco-luxury lodge through its innovative architecture that seamlessly blends into its wildlife surroundings and combines new buildings with original 19th century structures, state-of-the-art sustainability integration, customised service, and more, to offer guests the ultimate destination for discovery, reflection and connection. From tailored game drives to cooking classes, community elders visits, and birding adventures, every experience at The Homestead keeps conservation, sustainability and adventure alive.
Rates begin at £2,550 per person per nightincludes: luxury accommodation, all meals and beverages, twice daily electric safaris and / or walking safaris (accompanied by experienced guides), return road transfers between the reserve airstrip and The Homestead, and laundry service.
Opening May 1st 2023, Eliamos Villas Hotel & Spa is set on the southern shores of Kefalonia island, in Greece, situated just 15 minutes by car from Kefalonia International Airport and 20 minutes from the island’s capital, Argostoli. Set above a secluded beach, Eliamos’ family-friendly and refined modern village has 12 spacious villas and maisonettes looking out to dazzling sea vistas or sprawling olive groves. All boast their own saltwater pool or Jacuzzi, and private garden. Eliamos exudes the comfortable familiarity of a private villa retreat, yet offers access to the hotel’s five-star amenities. Nature-based relaxation and wellness take centre-stage with an outdoor gym, saltwater swimming pool, Eliamos Spa and wellness activities including yoga and meditation. Harnessing the power of Greek and Mediterranean cuisine, dining at Eliamos gives way to earthy yet refined dishes with a health-conscious approach, prepared with ingredients from local farmers and producers. The exclusive village proposes a stay rooted in sustainability, intertwined with nature’s abundance. Guest experiences include turtle conservation and star gazing.
Rates from £340 per night based on two people sharing.
Anticipated opening date Q2, 2023
Paragraph Freedom Square, Tbilisi, Georgia
Set in the heart of Freedom Square, the most iconic postcode in Tbilisi, this Luxury Collection hotel will offer an authentic gateway to explore this diverse hidden gem of a city with 220 guestrooms, designed with traditional Georgian touches and modern luxury finishes. In the hotel’s specialty restaurant, guests can savour traditional Georgian dishes and, for those looking for spectacular views whilst dining, the Skybar provides the perfect evening escape, serving Asian cuisine in an intimate setting overlooking the city. Guests are invited to relax and indulge in the luxurious spa featuring ESPA spa treatments, an indoor pool, and a state-of-the-art gym. Golf lovers rejoice as the hotel rooftop offers cable car service transporting guests to the neighbouring golf course.
W Prague marks the brand’s debut into the Czech Republic and will be located on Wenceslas Square in the centre of the buzzing capital city. The hotel will be a renovation of the former Grand Europa Hotel, a radical art nouveau style property that pushed boundaries when it originally opened in 1905, and will do so again with the W brand’s progressive design and innovative spirit. Restored historical elements of the former Grand Hotel Europa will be combined with a stunning new oval-shaped extension to create a blend of old-world glamour and vibrant, contemporary design. W Prague will feature 161 stylish guestrooms and suites, including the Extreme Wow Suite – the brand’s lavish take on the traditional Presidential Suite. Its glamorous rooftop bar and outdoor terrace are the perfect location for style-savvy locals to enjoy sweeping cityscape views over cocktails. The hotel will also house several chic restaurants, an ultra-modern event space, indoor WET pool deck, FIT fitness centre and AWAY ® Spa.
Kimpton Aysla Mallorca is a sanctuary of laidback luxury and wellness offering guests the chance to fully unwind and recharge. Situated in the town of Santa Ponsa (in Calviá, only 14 km from Palma de Mallorca and 20 minutes from its airport), guests can enjoy its incredible on-site facilities and have the privilege of being a stone’s throw away from some of the island’s most prestigious leisure clubs, like the Mallorca Country Club, a regular practice ground for some of the world’s top tennis players, and Golf Santa Ponsa, a large golf complex with two 18-hole PGA European tour courses, a 9-hole course, and a driving range. The resort has a full programme of wellbeing activities, such as morning workouts, guided meditation, yoga classes or road cycling, as well as two outside pools. The extensive onsite spa has a stunning indoor pool, mud baths, sauna, a salt cave, and seven treatment rooms where guests can experience exclusively formulated treatments.
Winter season starting from €350 per night. Summer season starting from €600 per night.
SCHLOSS Roxburghe will be welcoming an extensive expansion this November with the opening of the new Estate House, hosting an additional 58 rooms and a purpose-built banqueting suite, extensive spa facilities and several cottages across the grounds. The historic estate located in the Scottish Borders (only a 4-hour train from London to Berwick-upon-Tweed and 1.5 hours from Edinburgh), features a championship golf course and a range of outdoor country activities including clay pigeon shooting, fishing, archery and more.The charming manor house has been enhanced by with new spa facilities including a heated outdoor swimming pool making it the first outdoor spa in the Scottish Borders.
Casa Angelina: Via Gennaro Capriglione, 147, 84010 Praiano
Nestled into the picturesque hillside of the Amalfi coast lies Casa Angelina, a white washed luxury hotel that boasts luxury, minimalistic design whilst encapsulating a “home from home” experience for guests.
From the warm welcome upon arrival, you’re greeted with fresh homemade lemonade and a smile, you’ll instantly relax into life here at Casa Angelina.
The location?
Located in the sleepy village of Praiano on the Amalfi Coast, you’re just a 10-minute ride away from the beautiful village of Positano (the hotel runs a free shuttle bus to and from Positano, making Casa Angelina the perfect spot to explore).
Other villages on the Amalfi Coast within easy reach (you can catch a local bus for just a couple of euro, or take a boat from Positano!), are; Amalif, Sorrento, Ravello or hop on a boat over to the majestic isle of Capri!
*The hotel overlooks Positano, which is magical for watching the sunrise or set of an evening!
The rooms?
You’ll find no shortage of luxury in the rooms at Casa Angelina, with Jo Malone and L’Occitane toiletries, Etro towels, Nespresso coffee machines, personalised welcome notes and Casa Angelina branded bags for you to use at the hotel.
Casa Angelina leaves no stone unturned when it comes to details, and this really shines through within the rooms. Your evening turndown service includes and eye mask, a luxury chocolate and a tube of L’Occitane hand cream.
I spent one night in a “Romantic Double Room” with front sea view and balcony, the perfect spot to watch the sunset over the Amalfi Coast!
The dining?
If you’re looking to dine at Casa Angelina, pick from either “Seascape” – the hotels casual all-day dining restuarant, or opt for the fine dining option at “Un Piano Nel Cielo” located on the fourth floor with beautiful views across the coast.
I dined at Seascape during my stay, I started with some warm Focaccia bread with oils, followed by a locally caught fish dish (delicious!), and ended with Pistachio & Hazlenut ice cream. The meal was absolutely incredible – and the best part? I enjoyed a date night for one, reading my book and watching the beautiful sunset over Positano – it really was a night to remember!
Enjoy breakfast on the fourth floor resturant, you’ll be spoilt for choice with the buffet, fresh juices, pastries, cooked meats, local yoghurts, fresh fruit and a menu to order a cooked item of your choice too – a wonderful spot to start your day before exploring.
Need to know?
There’s no shortage of things to do here at Casa Angelina! Whether you’re looking to hire a boat and explore the coast by sea (you can also hire a private chef for the day too), book a treatment at the hotels spa, unwind by the indoor or outdoor pool, workout in the gym, relax by the library, wander down to the beach club or check out Casa Angelina’s newly added garden (this is also the spot for morning Yoga / Pilates – stunning!).
I loved spending the night at Casa Angelina, a truly refined hotel in the heart of the Amalfi coast – making this hotel the perfect spot for exploring!
Situated against the white wash walls of the hotel, Casa Angelina offers an ecletic art collection, full of hand picked pieces from around the world!
