India - House Of Coco Magazine

India January 10, 2024

Why you Should go on a Tour of the Indian Himalayas

When you think of an epic adventure, you may imagine traversing mountains and the view from the top. The Himalayan mountain range is possibly the most famous in the world, stretching from Pakistan to China and crossing India, Nepal and Bhutan along the way.

The Indian portion of the Himalayas is arguably one of the most breathtaking, so visiting should be an item on your bucket list. There are many different ways to see this part of the world, including going on a tour. Incorporating it as part of a tour of India gives you many unique experiences.

Hidden Himalayas

The Himalayas are flanked by tiny, traditional towns and bustling cities, both of which offer a different view of the Himalayas. Booking a tour of this region means you can discover little-known areas and see parts of the world that many will miss.

Shimla is a must-see stop on your tour. It was once known as the summer capital of the British Raj, so the mix of tradition and imported design is still a striking contrast. If you are travelling in the colder months, prepare for deluges of snow along the mountainsides.

Connect with local communities

As this region is speckled with remote villages and towns, traditions that have lasted for centuries are very much practised. By immersing yourself in the ways of the locals, you will gain a new insight into how the world is viewed by some people.

This is also a great way to experience some traditional dishes which are not found in the Western world. Although momos originated in neighbouring Tibet and Nepal, India has adopted this dish and given it their own twist. Momos are steamed dumplings and can be filled with a number of different ingredients – lamb is a very popular filling in Himalayan India. These are then steamed over a stock and are then served with various sauces.

Momos are one of those dishes where every family has their own special recipe, so you can be forgiven for sampling it at every opportunity!

Spectacular scenery

As you explore the Himalayas you will be constantly in awe of the views. Every place you visit will give you a unique view of the mountain range and surrounding scenery.

Borong, for example, is a smaller town off the beaten track that gives stunning views of Mount Kanchenjunga all year round. This area is great for wildlife too, with large flocks of birds thronging through the emerald-green forests. One of the birds that is sure to catch your eye is the Dark-breasted Rosefinch whose red colouring stands out amongst the greenery.

Since the area of Ladakh opened to tourists in 1974, visitors have marvelled at the mountainous views which are the backdrop to ornate monasteries. As it is situated 3,500 above sea level, visitors should take it easy for a day or two after arriving as the altitude can take some getting used to.

India November 9, 2023

Hospital Playlist: The K-Drama of Goodness

The magnifying presence of mass media continues to demonstrate its power in today’s digital age. From marketing the latest e-commerce products to broadcasting updates on Covid-19, mass media plays a vital role in people’s lives. It even helps shape major decisions, such as an individual’s career selection.

In a 2016 study, results revealed that mass media usage “had a great impact in career selection” among undergraduate veterinary students of Andhra Pradesh, India. That is one of the many academic studies proving that individuals can gain inspiration from television characters they like. The portrayal of a successful, proficient character may contribute to the individual’s decision.

Who wouldn’t be motivated to get into law school when a television character is a successful lawyer fighting for human rights? Or try their hands at becoming an artist complete with watercolor pencils and StazOn ink as art materials? This example has the same effect on aspiring physicians from the concluded Korean drama series,Hospital Playlist.

The feel-good series everyone is looking for

Thediverse genres found in the K-drama series is one of the reasons that it’s well-received internationally. It appeals to the mood of viewers because, for every emotion, there is a K-drama that resonates with it. Due to the overwhelming distress caused by the pandemic, it’s only natural for people to search for feel-good entertainment to distract them from the reality the world is currently enduring.Hospital Playlisthappens to qualify under this search.

The plot follows the friendship of five surgeons who have known each other since medical school. The series provides an accurate depiction of the lives of health professionals, featuring the surgeons’ relationship with each other, their own families, patients, and other colleagues in Yulje Medical Center.

In a YouTube review by DoctorFriends, who are real-life doctors, they validated how it “seemed like a real story.” Because of the dynamics of the storyline, the ending is unforeseeable, making the series more exciting.This feel-good series doesn’t filter the hardships and struggles of characters and even sheds light on the human connection among strangers and loved ones.

Capturing the hearts and souls beyond physicians-to-be

It’s safe to say that the series does not merely touch the hearts and souls of aspiring physicians but anyone who needs to be reminded that the world will always be filled with good people and intentions. It was best manifested in the characters’ wholesome treatment of each other. It was also seen on how they handled problems inside and outside of work.

TV drama critic Yun Suk-jin claimed that the drama “focused on the doctors’ sincerity in their work and their relationship with the patients.” That comes from the observation that medical dramas tend to highlight the power conflict found in the hospital or the love-hate relationship between two lead doctors. Hospital Playlist broke the mold by telling the story of friendship between colleagues and how they managed hardship by supporting one other.

Hospital Playlist leaves a promising impact on viewers in different ways. It can heighten one’s dream to become part of the medical field or simply inspire them to remain a good person despite the prevalence of chaos. Either way, the series shows that life is worth celebrating.

Destination Inspiration November 9, 2023

unwind in the lap of luxury

If you are looking to shed stress, eat clean and chill out then retreat to the secluded, less commercial south side of Mauritius for a rejuvenating wellness break at Anantara Iko Resort. With powder white sandy beaches and lush tropical landscapes, guests seeking the ultimate wellness escape can take their foot of the gas, switch off and relax by taking full advantage of the three- and five-day wellness experiences.
This tranquil resort is located on the authentic, untouched southeast coast of the island which is a million miles away from the west coast where you’ll find back to back resorts and street vendors. Here the vibe is laid-back and serene, surrounded by the ocean and nature it’s the perfect place for weary travellers to unwind.

Inspired by nature, it has been designed to complement its stunning surroundings by using lots of natural, locally sourced materials around the property. Recycled stone, driftwood and water features set the calm tone and as soon as you arrive at Anantara you feel the pace of life slowing down.

The new wellness programmes use restorative Ayurveda treatments alongside local ingredients such as Tamarin salt from the village on the western coast and spices including turmeric and ginger. Self-healing, restoration, improved energy flow and calming rituals are the foundation of each wellness package, created with health and wellbeing conscientious travellers in mind.
The five-day wellness programme incorporates the following treatments:

Day 1:

Start the day with a traditional Tai Chi session to connect the body and mind. This moving meditation enhances muscular strength, joint flexibility, calms the senses and soothes the soul.
Supporting the actions and benefits of Tai Chi, a restorative 90-minute Ayurveda massage follows. Benefits of Ayurvedic massages include: improved blood circulation to help blood reach nerve endings, toning of muscles, calming the brain and body, lubricating and strengthening joints, increased mental alertness.

Day 2:

Known for its self-healing benefits, the touch therapy of Abhyanga massage aims to balance dosha types using oils mixed with herbs for maximum benefits which stimulate the nervous system, enhance coordination between sensory organs, while strengthening muscles. This massage supports healing, boosts energy, reduces recovery time after an injury, eases pain, and enhances relaxation, mood, and wellbeing.

Day 3:

The ancient self-healing practice of Qi Gong creates a calmness of the mind while powering the body with movements that improve joint flexibility and muscle strength. Qi Gong also supports balance and harmony within the body, improves digestion, and can be an effective treatment for insomnia and many other sleep disorders.

Day 4:

The Ayurvedic therapy Shirodhara, which is a Sanskrit word coming from shro (head) and dhara (flow), involves gently pouring herbal oils over the forehead. This is ideal for those with a vata-pitta imbalance as it can harmonise the body’s energy, awaken intuition, improve memory, support sleep, focus attention and improve concentration.

Day 5:

Round up the five-day programme with a choice of Tai Chi or Qi Gong to absorb and reinforce the full benefits of the wellness programme. Through moving meditation, you maximise the calming effects on the mind and physical benefits to the body.

Embrace the outstanding views of Le Chaland Beach and nourish your body with fresh, organic, vegan cuisine at Bon Manzer restaurant. This clean-eating restaurant will inject some joy and flavour into your palate. There’s an extensive offer of healthy dishes, all freshly prepared in front of you, using local, sustainable produce. Choose from wheat- and gluten-free options, as well as low-calorie wines, raw foods and nutritious smoothies and juices.

The stylish, contemporary, island-chic resort offers a range of activities outside of the programme so you can continue your wellness journey. Take a bike ride along the stunning, unspoilt coastline, soak up the sapphire hues of the ocean with a beach walk or if you‘d rather take some time out to relax then make the most of the hotel’s 30-metre ozone-based swimming pool, one of the many sustainability initiatives at the property.

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 relaxing and calm. Start your day taking in the views of the Indian Ocean or flourishing tropical gardens direct from your day bed on the balcony. Just 100m from the beach and with an array of facilities to help you dial it down a notch, Anantara is the ultimate chill out destination.
A room at Anantara Iko Mauritius starts from £335 per room per night on a half board basis. Wellness packages start at £330.
www.anantara.com/en/iko-mauritius

Food & Drink November 9, 2023

Meet the Woman Making Indian Street Food Gourmet

It’s hard to know where to begin if you’re after an Indian meal in London. From busy and bustling chains to central-sitting favourites like the Tandoor Chophouse and back-street family run joints, Indian restaurants sprawl the streets of the capital.

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Dinner is served ?? Yum!! ?: @belle.imaging_food . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . #thegutsychutney #indiantapas #indiandinner #southindianchef #londonfoodie #keemabruschetta #hungryaf #dinnertime #hungryallthetime #afterworksnacks #afterworkfood #keemacurry #keemanaan #bruschetta #europeantwist #indianfoodwithatwist #redchillies #lovechillies #spicyfood #lovefood #londonfoodie #instafood #instagood #foodphotography #doubletap #followme #likeforlike

A post shared by The Gutsy Chutney (@thegutsychutney) on Sep 30, 2018 at 9:00am PDT

Indian food has, of course, been massively popular for a long while now (chicken tikka masala was actually invented here in the UK, dontcha know), and we’re the last people to complain. It is the food of Saturday nights, feeding us up, tantalising our taste buds and making us feel right at home.

But the thing is, simply stating ‘Indian’ doesn’t quite seem to cut it anymore. Londoners want to know that their seafood dish is inspired by the ports of Kerala and from which street in Gujarat their vegetarian curry is from. In short, we’re getting a bit picky.

Add this desire for detail to an implosion of street food culture and love for tapas-style feasting, and you’ve opened up a whole new gap in the market. That is, Indian street food with a real story.

Recent years have seen eateries which fall under this niche experience an exponential rocketing. Dishoom and the Masala Zone are high-profile examples, as is Soho’s Darjeeling Express – a restaurant founded by Asma Khan which only employs Indian females, recently featured on Netflix’s The Chef’s Table and now has a waiting list for bookings longer than any other restaurant in its vicinity. Impressive, right?

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Just in case you needed reminding ? Food is love! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . #southindianfood #indianfood #homemadeindianfood #indiancuisine #indiancooking #loveindian #loveindia #loveindianfood #kerala #keralaindia #indianchef #indianrecipes #traditionalfood #explorenewcultures #trynewfoods #gutsychutney #instagood #londonfoodie #doubletap #foodislove #foodislife #neonsigns #loveneonsigns #neonart

A post shared by The Gutsy Chutney (@thegutsychutney) on Sep 18, 2018 at 10:00am PDT

Move a little out of the spotlight and you’ll see a whole other host of Indian chefs making their mark on the London foodie scene; the latest to jump on the bandwagon is Deepa Nair, host of the Gutsy Chutney.

TGC is yet again different from its Indian counterparts, because it’s a supper club which has been founded to “right the many wrongs” when it came to the way Indian cuisine was being enjoyed and represented in the UK.

Deepa said: “The numerous restaurants serving Indian cuisine never did justice to the phenomenal culinary variety that exists in India, choosing instead to have only the same and more popular dishes on the menu.”

I’m a lover of the informal, homely supper club. Pay a set price, BYOB (often), rock up to a venue (or someone’s home) which you wouldn’t usually visit and enjoy a multiple-course set menu cooked by a passionate cook (who’s also probably spent all day slaving away in an office, a la Deepa). You can’t get much better than that.

It was a rainy Wednesday evening when I went on my way to the latest in TGC’s offerings, and upon arriving at a small pub in the depths of West London, Deepa greeted me warmly.

She had clearly been busy in the kitchen; her scraped back hair and a spice-stained apron which hung from her neck proved that whatever I was about to eat would be a total labour of love.

This latest supper club was to be inspired by the streets of India. How very apt and on-trend. Out in India, every city has its own street food speciality, so Deepa decided to take attendees on a journey.

She started with dahi papdi chaat, a favourite from the state capital Delhi. It is crisp, savoury tarts filled with boiled potato, chickpeas, sauces and sweet yoghurt. It was totally delicious.

Next up Deepa took us over to Eastern Indian with her Momos, a Tibetan take on Chinese dumplings which have now been popularised in Northern and Eastern India as popular street food. They were serving with a seriously fiery chilli sauce, which, as Deepa warned us as it arrived at the table, was very hot. We ate the Momos with chop sticks – a totally authentic experience.

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Feeling for a @calcuttacanteen keema pau and #masalachai in this freezing weather…little one was asked if he wanted less coriander Chutney on his chicken Kati kebab roll: his response – I am Indian, I can take spicy food ?? #proudfoodiemom #soulfood @darjeelingldn

A post shared by The Gutsy Chutney (@thegutsychutney) on Dec 8, 2018 at 2:35am PST

Before enjoying a delicious main meal of chorizo pao (more on that later), we tucked into Kerala bakery egg puffs. This is apparently one of the most popular snacks that you can find in the bakeries of the region. Flaky and buttery pastry is wrapped around boiled eggs with a spicy Kerala onion sauce. Totally different to anything I’ve tried before, but somehow… it worked.

As mentioned, the main was chorizo pao, a spiced up version of the Pao Recheado com Chourico in Portugal, which is bread stuffed with sausages. This is a Goan street food popular during festivals and celebrations, and could be described to be similar to a chorizo burger in a brioche bun. It has the House of Coco stamp of approval.

The evening was concluded with a traditional dessert – Matka kheer, a dish made of creamy vermicelli and served warm or cold. Comfort food at its finest.

READ MORE: The Best of Italian Street Food

Deepa’s evening was totally fabulous; an experience we would recommend endlessly. We’re rather hoping she’ll open up a restaurant at some point in the near future… but in the meantime? Get yourself booked in for her next Gutsy Chutney event on April 26th. It is set to be as mouth-wateringly delicious as ever and will be raising funds for The Hygeine Bank charity. No excuses.

Beauty November 9, 2023

#WomenWorldwide : The Creative Nature of Travel with Gloria, Melon & Starfish

We love hearing stories about how travel sparks new ideas and passions. For Gloria, founder of Melon & Starfish , a ‘brave decision’ to head to Korea to sharpen her languages skills left her with a burning desire to bring the K-Beauty market to the UK…

HOC: Hey, Gloria! Tell us about your journey to being an entrepreneur?

Gloria: I guess, when people talk about their entrepreneur stories, most of the time, it starts with a passion, a dream, or an idea. For me, it’s more of a journey of discovery.

I started my career as a management consultant at McKinsey & Co. in London and Singapore. During my time there, I had a real privilege to work with many people who were actually entrepreneurs. The thought of setting up my own business never occurred to me at the time but this probably planted the seed.

On weekends, I enjoyed watching Korean dramas. Initially, it was just for fun, and relaxation. Then, I thought it might be a good idea to pick up a new language skill so I began taking evening classes to learn Korean.

One thing led to another. After spending two years in Singapore, before returning to the UK, I made a ‘brave’ decision to go to Korea to sharpen my language skill and experience the Korean culture.I enrolled into a university language programme and spent 8 months in Seoul where I discovered, in addition to K-pop and K-dramas, there is this huge K-beauty industry.

After returning back to London, I started my research of K-beauty in the European market. After six-month preparation, we set up our online store with the hope to bring the Korean skin care philosophy to the UK and spark some joy in people’s skincare journeys.

HOC: Such an exciting journey! When did Melon & Starfish come into being? And what’s the meaning behind the name?

Gloria: We started preparing our online store around September 2017 and it went live in January 2018.

Our name, Melon & Starfish, symbolises our mission – to bring you high quality skincare products because we want you to have the best skin possible.

Melons are smooth, supple and resilient; Starfish are one of the only animals that can regenerate itself. We always have this imagery in mind when we select our products.

HOC: And how do you go about selecting your products, there must be tonnes of great ones out there!

Gloria: We purposefully seek out products that are natural, plant-based and packed with unique ingredients that are difficult to find anywhere else. We personally test all the products and learn what we love about these products before bringing them to our website.

HOC: I have to admit, I’m new to Korean beauty products! Where should I start?

Gloria: When I told my friends that I am now running an online K-beauty store, the first thing they reply: ah, I’ve heard of the 10-step routine! True, K-beauty made its name with the ’10-step’ routine. But the truth is, it’s much simpler than it sounds. If you ask me how many steps it should really be. I would say it’s really up you and how your skin feels. It should be adjusted to your own skin type, the climate you’re in or how busy your life is.

The essence of Korean Beauty is “skincare always comes first”. Start with taking care of your skin beforeeverything else. A classic Korean skin care routine includes: double-cleansing (both oil-based and water-based cleansers), toner, essence, moisturiser, and SPF.

The most essential steps out of all? Double-cleansing for the night and SFP for the day (and, yes! You need to wear SPF even on the rainy days).

After all, skincare should be fun; not a burden or a chore. It’s all about experimenting and finding out what’s best for you.

HOC: So interesting. As an expert, what is your favourite ingredient / product?

Gloria: My favourite product is Lan’s Tamanu Cream from the newest curation LANBELLE. It’s like a miracle cream that work for all skin types and it has the softest texture that I’ve ever encountered for a cream. The smell is quite unique, probably not for everyone’s taste but it grows on you.

The key ingredient of Lan’s Tamanu Cream is Tamanu oil (Calophyllum Inophyllum Seed Oil). The precious Tamanu oil is extracted from the kernel of Tamanu fruit. Approximately only 5L of oil can be extracted from one tree of Tamanu.

Tamanu tree also has unique nickname: God’s tree, and Tamanu fruit is known as miraculously omnipotent fruit among natives who live in Pacific Islands area such as India, Vietnam, Southern Pacific Area, and it is known to promote wound healing and skin cell regeneration.

HOC: For our entrepreneurial readers, what advice do you have for them to start their own thing?

Gloria: I would say, just be brave and go ahead!

Many say you need to have a well-laid plan before you start. However, the reality is things always change, so does your plan. One of the most important things I learnt so far is to start with a small step, and then one step at the time. Many things can be learnt along the way.

Sometimes, the longer you wait, the less willing you become to take that first step.

HOC: What product you’ve brought to the UK means the most to you and why?

Gloria: The brand Olivarrier means the most to us. The name Olivarrier is the combination of ‘Oliva (latin for Olive)’ + ‘Skin Barrier’.

It is the very first brand we curated for our ‘clean beauty’ collection. The brand’s philosophy 100% matches with what we believe and look for in a skincare brand – i.e. with natural, plant-based ingredients, hypoallergenic, dermatologist-tested, vegan-certified, free of toxins, EWG-verified and cruelty-free. What more to ask?

Their star ingredients are the plant-based triple hyaluronic acid and 100% pure olive squalene. The ‘dual moist’ line is named with these two ingredients in mind.

HOC: How do you keep yourself motivated and on track?

Gloria: The Korean beauty industry is relatively fast moving – there are always new brands, new technology and innovationscoming out each year – so it never gets boring.We all love shopping.

Researching brands and products is like you get to go window shopping every day!

It is also quite fun to learn about those new, unique ingredients. For example, you probably heard of snail mucin which is great for moisturising; also, pearls for brightening, centella for soothing and calming, etc.Plus, we regularly travel to Korea to see what’s hot in their local market and, you get to eat amazing food there too!

HOC: Finally, if you ever have a creative block / funk; how do you get yourself out of it?

Gloria: Probably hit the gym or grab a coffee with my friends.

HOC:What does 2019 look like for Melon & Starfish? What plans do you have for the brand?

Gloria: In 2019 we have seen that consumers are becoming more considered when making their purchasing choices. People become more aware of topics such as climate change, food waste, etc.The once-a-niche concept of ‘clean beauty’ also has moved to the mainstream – we often hear that our customers are actively searching for skin care products that are vegan, natural, organic…

As people, we also care about this ‘one strange rock’ that we are living on. As a business, we will continue focusing on our ‘organic and natural’ collection this year – we are not only hunting for the brands/products with ‘clean’ ingredients but also ‘clean’ in packaging and manufacturing processes.

What an honourable mission!

To find out more about Melon & Starfish head over to MelonAndStarfish.com

Follow the brand on instagram @MelonAndStarfish

Costa Rica November 9, 2023

5 Hotels Offering A Digital Detox

If you don’t do an IG story of the whole thing, did you even go on holiday?

Technology is as much a part of our downtime these days as it is our working life, with the pressure to show everyone just how much fun we’re having 24/7.

The pressure to get the perfect Aperol boomerang can, eventually, get too much. Everyone needs a break – and what better way to do it than to go on a proper digital detox?

But don’t go thinking that binning your phone can only be done at some remote hippy enclave which you wouldn’t want to snap anyway.

These days, digital detoxes take place in luxury hotels and retreats with enough comfort to make you forget all about your group WhatsApp.

1. Argoed Barns, Wales

https://www.instagram.com/p/BwiMyUPHeMy/

Bunker down in one of a trio of luxury semi and self-catering accommodation in the heart of the Brecon Beacons.

Argoed Barns is three miles from Brecon and just under three hours away from London, so you can get away from the thick of it without going too far.

You’ll be too busy taking in all the breathtaking scenery to be fussed about Facebook. After a day out in the hills, sink into a glorious hot tub with views to die for – complete with a handy ledge for your wine glass. If you’ve got the energy, nip down the road for dinner at local foodie haven, Felin Fach Griffin. Just don’t be tempted to log onto the WiFi!

Choose to stay in a self-catering boutique cottage, a B&B Shepherd’s Hut or a self-catering luxury Geodome.

Prices start at £230 based on two nights in the Shepherd’s Hut (children and pets aren’t allowed). Kids and pets are welcome to stay in the Byre or Geodome (it’s an extra £15 for animals).

(www.argoedbarns.co.uk)

2. Chiva-Som Hua Hin, Thailand

https://www.instagram.com/p/BYLWssdDcRM/

Wellness and luxury go hand in hand – and nowhere makes that case better than at Chiva-Som Hua Hin.

Unwind with its unique blend of ancient health practices and innovative holistic therapies chosen for you by your own Health and Wellness Advisor and tailor-made to your needs.

Maybe you’re trying to de-stress, get fit or perhaps you just want to become more mindful; whatever your goal, you can work on it here. Located in Hua Hin, in the Southern province of Prachuap Kriri Khan, the resort is surrounded by caves, palaces and temples – as well as glorious ocean views and beaches.

Relax in the knowledge that Chiva-Som is big on sustainability and that everything you eat is coming from the on-sight organic garden.

From £308 pp per night (www.chivasom.com)

3. Yobaba Lounge, France

https://www.instagram.com/p/BMFTBjjA0f5/

‘Switch off our phones. Lay down your schedules. Let go of your daily routine.’ That’s the mantra at Yobaba Lounge so you best believe that this is a no-Instagram zone.

Set in the middle of a medieval village at the foothills of the Pyrenees, Yobaba has been hosting vegan wellness retreats since 2013. When retreats aren’t in session, they offer a three-night stay in their digital-free space for anyone in need of a break.

Every day, guests are invited to experience Noble SIlence – short periods of quiet in which people can investigate their ‘true nature’ and reconnect with their surroundings. Formal retreats require silence from 8.30pm to noon the next day but anyone coming for a self-retreat is asked to simply stay silent from the moment they wake up until breakfast at 10am.

Retreat places start at £875 pp sharing a double room or from £1,250 alone in a large double room for 4 nights, including all food and drink and three meditations a day.

£80pp for a room outside of retreat season.

(www.yobabalounge.com)

4. Ulpotha, Sri Lanka

https://www.instagram.com/p/BvGogfoDUHu/

Situated in the heart of Sri Lanka, Ulpotha is luxuriously posh while being totally off-grid. Guests stay in one of 11 huts which are all built using traditional materials and boast huge beds covered in voluminous mosquito nets.

There’s no electricity and life ‘is lived by the rhythm of the day’ – with rooms and paths lit by lamps and lanterns. It’s romance is enhanced by being located at the foot of the Galgiriyawa mountain, bordered by lotus-ringed lakes and emerald green paddy fields.

Go for the yoga, stay for the R ‘n’ R with the onsite ayurveda experiences. Choose from a host of dreamy treatments that last from three to 28 days with names like ‘Happiness’, ‘Satisfaction’ and ‘Redemption’.

Prices start at around £1,325 per person (www.ulpotha.com), for seven nights including all food and snacks, two yoga classes a day, guided forest walks, excursions, bikes, laundry, and one massage a week.

5. El Silencio Lodge & Spa, Costa Rica

https://www.instagram.com/p/BvXrRlRlUwT/

As the name might suggest, this Costa Rica paradise is all about slowing down and getting rid of unnecessary noise. It touts itself being one of the most secluded and tranquil hotels in the country with torch-lit forest dinners and an extensive array of spa treatments.

There’s no phone signal, WiFi or TV in the sustainable eco-lodge but with views across 500 acres of jungle, you won’t be short of things to stare in awe at.

If you do need extra stimulation, they offer a tonne of activities, including ziplining, coffee-tasting, hot springs, hikes, and cookery classes.

For a digital detox, stay in a suite in the lodge rather than in a villa (which does have WiFI), and enjoy a private viewing deck with a heating jet pool, coffeemaker, and local organic products.

Suites from $420 per night for two adults, including breakfast and daily Mystic Hike.

(www.elsilenciolodge.com)

India November 9, 2023

Hyderabad – The best destination for spending holidays

Hyderabad is the capital city of Telangana state in India which is well-known for its popular attractions. The city is becoming the largest IT hub after Bangalore due to large presence of software companies. There are several things to do in Hyderabad and anyone who visits the city for first time should know them in detail. This will help to make the trip a memorable one for a long-time. Another thing is that visitors can schedule their tour with family and friends that can help to witness complete satisfaction.

Topmost places to visit in Hyderabad

1. Charminar

Charminar is one of the must-see places to visit in Hyderabad because it serves as an important landmark of the city. It is a square monument that has 20 meter on each side which stands at 48.7 mtr above the ground. The structure built in 1591 by Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah with granite and lime mortar in Caza style architecture. Furthermore, Charminar has 45 covered prayer spaces that can accommodate more people for prayers. Apart from that, each arch also has a clock installed in 1889.

2. Golconda Fort

Golconda Fort, located around 11 km around Hyderabad is well-known for its impenetrable structure. It is one of the greatest forts in India built in 13th century by Kakatiyas. The fort is granite hill which stands at a height of 120m. It consists of four different forts with 10 km long outer wall. The structure has many features such as eight gateways, beautiful palaces, mosques, 87 bastions, and so on. Visitors can attend the light and sound show organized in the evenings to know the glory and history of The Fort in detail.

3. Salar Jung Museum

Salar Jung Museum is one of the popular sightseeing places in Hyderabad. It has an area of 10 acres with two floors. The museum features a wide range of artefacts which include art pieces and manuscripts from around the world collected by Mir Yousuf Ali Khan along with Nawab Turab Ali Khan. It is a semi-circular building which comprises of three buildings. In addition, it has 38 galleries spread over two floors. The museum covers a wide collection of more than 43000 art objects.

4. Hussain Sagar Lake

Hussain Sagar Lake is an artificial one which serves as a boundary between Hyderabad and Secunderabad. One can find a large Buddha statue at the centre of the lake and can be accessed easily by boats. It is an ideal destination for those who want to enjoy boat riding with others.

5. Nehru Zoological Park

Nehru Zoological Park approximately covers 300 acres of land allowing visitors to access more than 1500 wildlife species. Furthermore, it even covers elephant rides and safari trips for visitors allowing them to experience more excitement in life.

6. Chowmahalla Palace

Chowmahalla Palace is a popular attraction of Hyderabad which has a blend of various blends and architectural styles. Built in the 18th century, it is primarily used by Nizams for different purposes. The palace has intricate carvings on the walls which are worth noticing.

Travel tips to Hyderabad

1. Although Hyderabad experiences a moderate climate, the summer seasons are very hot and visitors should bring some cotton and loose clothes for managing them. The winter is very pleasant in the city enabling visitors to enjoy their vacation accordingly.

2. Telegu is the main language spoken in Hyderabad city. However, people also speck some other languages such as Urdu, Hindi, and English for communication purposes.

3. Foreign nationals who visit the city for first time should consider carrying a copy of passport and visa when they like to some important places. Moreover, it will help a lot to avoid unwanted problems during security checks.

4. Hyderabad has a good public transport network system because it covers a large number of busses allowing tourists to reach other places quickly. The new metro station in Hyderabad in the city also enables a person to save more time in traveling.

5. It is advisable not to travel alone in remote areas of the city which help to prevent robbery, thefts, and other problems to a large extent.

6. Hyderabad is a famous one for its authentic biriyani and other non-vegetarian dishes that satisfy the needs of visitors. There are many hotels and restaurants which offer foods with unique tastes.

7. Visitors should follow the dress code while visiting mosques, shrines, churches, and temples in Hyderabad. It is advisable not to wear skin wearing clothes while visiting them.

8. Street foods in Hyderabad are not a healthy one and visitors should make sure that they are free from spices and colouring agents.

9. Visitors can buy bottled water from nearby stores because tap water is not a healthy one for drinking purposes.

10. Tourists can face overcharging problems when they hire autos in the city. They should consider hiring taxi services for long distance purposes that can help to experience peace of mind from unwanted problems.

11. New visitors should take care of their valuable things in crowded places to avoid loss of money and other problems.Foreign nationals should hire a guide to avoid cheating and other issues.

Where to stay in Hyderabad?

Hyderabad is home to leading star hotels that offer luxurious facilities for tourists allowing them to experience a world-class accommodation. Anyone who wants to book cheapresorts in Hyderabad can get details from reputed hotel websites for meeting exact needs. They provide outstanding amenities for guests with highly qualified staffs.

It is possible to compare the costs of resorts in Hyderabadonline before booking them. In addition, it gives ways to plan a trip in advance for witnessing peace of mind. Some resorts even provide huge discounts on hotel packages allowing visitors to choose the right one at the best prices to save more money. One can even cancel the hotel booking before 2 days for getting complete refunds. It is necessary to follow the terms and conditions carefully while booking a hotel online that can help to avoid any disputes related to booking.

India November 9, 2023

Improve your wellbeing with Ayurveda

Set at the foot of the Himalayas, overlooking the spiritual Ganges river, world renowned wellness retreat Ananda is the ideal destination to discover the ancient Indian practice of Ayurveda.
Ayurveda is one of the world’s oldest wellbeing philosophies, originally developed in India over 5,000 years ago this holistic mind-body health system is based on the body having the correct balance of nature’s basic elements – earth, wind, fire, water and air.

By understanding our bodies more and making some small adjustments to diet and lifestyle, wellness experts believe it can help manage everything from stress, weight through to the menopause.
Team Coco got to spend some time with Ayurveda Physician, Dr Matthew to find out more about the practise. Dr Matthew, told us “Ayurveda focuses on providing specific advice and guidance on how to maintain physical and emotional health. In Ayurveda, every individual is unique and there is no diet or lifestyle routine that works for everyone”.

The practice is based on the principles of three doshas: Vata – space and air, Pitta – fire and water and Kapha – earth and water. “Doshas are the energies that make up every individual, which perform different physiological functions in the body. ‘Prakruti’ recognises that each of us is born with a unique combination of doshas, and that this is responsible for the mental, physical and emotional differences between us” explains Dr Matthew.

Pitta types literally have more fire in them than other people, so can be hot headed, aggressive and impatient, as well as being intelligent and sharp. The Pitta dosha controls digestion, metabolism and energy production. The primary function of Pitta is transformation.

Vata governs movement in the body, the activities of the nervous system, and influences thoughts and feelings. Vata types tend to always be on the go, with a fast, energetic and creative mind. As long as the Vata is in balance, they’ll be lively and enthusiastic.

Kapha governs the structure of the body. It is the principle that holds the cells together and forms the muscle, fat, bone and provides immunity. The primary function of Kapha is protection.
Kaphas are affectionate and forgiving.

After a consultation with Dr Matthew he confirmed my prominent doshas were Pitta and Vata (there are lots of questionnaires online if you want to find out more about your dosha type). To keep my doshas in balance I was given some small lifestyle tweaks and changes to my diet. The practice is focussed on listening to your body and recognising the changes so you can adjust your lifestyle to attain optimum wellness.

At Ananda there are number of retreat programmes which are tailor made for guests’ individual dosha and health goals. At the retreat they first establish your dosha balance then ensure your programme and diet reflects it.

Ananda’s Stress Management programme supports a well-balanced, healthy life by reducing stress and relaxing the mind. There’s a customised holistic programme of Ayurveda, Yoga, Tibetan and International experiences with Reiki Healing. The whole programme is designed to provide tranquillity to the stressed body and mind and to bring back the natural rhythm of the psychosomatic system.

If you feel like you’ve lost your mojo and need to reset then the Ayurvedic Rejuvenation programme will help you restore vitality to the body by eliminating toxins through traditional Panchakarma treatments and by enhancing the body’s immunity through a combination of Ayurvedic treatments, body type based diet and Yoga. The programme includes stimulating and purifying therapies, daily Yoga and Meditation and dosha-specific Ayurvedic diet to help reduce stress, improve health and address common ailments or simply delay the aging process.

Beyond the retreat you can indulge in mountain treks, guided nature walks and white water rafting. All of the wellness programmes follow a holistic approach towards achieving the best results in a safe, nurturing atmosphere expertly guided by a team of expert Ayurvedic doctors, skilled therapists, nutritionists, yogis and spa cuisine chefs.
For more information on the retreats at Ananda visit www.anandaspa.com
Ayurvedic Physician, Dr. Shijoe Mathew is Ayurvedic Consultant at The Circle, Brighton.

Food & Drink November 9, 2023

Martini: Masters of Aperitivo

There is no greater joy in life than sitting down with friends and family after a long day to enjoy good food and good drinks. On that I am sure we can agree.

Such a joy is not just a novelty over in Northern Italy, but a way of life, and that is what has been the foundation of inspiration for London’s most exciting new food and drink collaboration. It is all about sitting down to enjoy an aperitif menu as the sun sets.

As of today, iconic drinks brand, Martini, are embarking on a month long celebration of Italian food. They’ve teamed up with their friends at Clerkenwell’s Luca restaurant to create an exclusive dinner menu, and last night, House of Coco were lucky enough to sample it.

This collaboration is a match made in heaven. We knew it would work well before we even stepped into the stunningly contemporary restaurant, but the launch event affirmed our opinion. Luca is the perfect place from which to combine all that is good about Britain and Italy: the white walled court yard elaborately decorated with twinkling lights and roses has you feeling like you’re in a quiet corner of the Mediterranean, whilst the exposed Georgian brickwork and low-hanging light fittings remind you it could only be a swanky London eatery that you’re sat in.

The restaurant’s head chef, Robert Chambers, has worked tirelessly and closely with Michelin starred chef, Matteo Baronetto to develop four equisite dishes that will both reset your preconceptions of aperitivo and convince you that it needs to become a part of your life. Each dish is accompanied by a cocktail carefully curated by Martini’s global brand ambassador and one of the most renowned mixologists in Italian cocktail culture, Roberta Mariani, alongside Luca’s passionate Head of Drinks: Robert Simpson. The result? A unique menu combining the traditional flavours of Northern Italy with those contemporary of our own city, London.

COURSE 1

Veal marinated in chestnut honey, served with English pickled radishes. This is paired with Piedmonte Fizz (Martini Riserva Speciale Ambrato, Bombay Sapphire, lemon juice, absinthe and soda). Why? The chestnut flavours in the dish leave a soft taste, so the drink brings a light bitterness that evokes the herbal note in a refreshing way.

COURSE 2

Tomato tart with salted green peach and gentleman’s relish. This is served with San Pietro (Martini Riserva Speciale Ambrato and tomato skin infused Bombay Sapphire). Why? The tomato skin infusion means notes of the drink match perfectly with the fresh tomatoes in the tart.
Those seeking a bitter option can choose the Pedalare, which is the Martini Riserva Speciale Bitter topped with grape cider and served over ice.

COURSE 3

Lettuce leaf with citrus mayonnaise and dried green olives. Course three is paired with Amalfi Spritz. Perhaps our favourite of the cocktails here at House of Coco, it is made with classic Italian Limoncello and herb soda, complimented with the Martini Riserva Speciale vermouth. Why? Both the dish and the drink here are delectably light and refreshing. Palette cleansers, if you like.

COURSE 4

Scotch Olive: green olives encased in succulent rabbit sausage meat, seasoned with summer savoury and Calabrian chilli and coated in breadcrumbs. Served with the classic Martini Negroni cocktail: a bittersweet blend of Martini Riserva Rubino, Martini Riserva Speciale Bitter and Bombay Sapphire. Why? The richness of the drink perfectly compliments the earthy flavours of rabbit meat.

If you fancy trying this menu (and we totally recommend that you do) then it is available between 6 and 9pm from now until 4th October at Luca, London. It is priced at £35.

This price includes four courses, a Martini Negroni Cocktail and two other cocktails of your choice. Bookings can be made for 1-4 guests. Click here to book.

Denmark November 9, 2023

#COCOEATS: The Best Things We’ve Ever Eaten

If there’s one thing we pride ourselves on here at House of Coco, it’s good taste – and we’re not just talking about our heels. Whether we’re jetting around the world or checking out our hometown haunts, food is an integral part of what gives any destination its sense of place. To celebrate the launch of our food issue, we asked #TeamCoco to tell us about their ultimate dish. Here are the best things we’ve ever eaten…

Rachael Lindsay – The hot chocolate served at Angelina’s in Paris is so dark, devilish and divine that I recommend it to everybody who mentions they are going to the French capital. It is served in an antique china jug, full of thick, melted chocolate, and comes with a huge plate of whipped cream. Stir up the perfect chocolate to cream ratio and you will be in chocolate heaven. Unbeatable during winter when the cold French wind chills, or for any time of year really. For those with a real sweet tooth, it is perfectly accompanied by a Mont Blanc, a dessert of pureed sweet chestnuts and yet more cream, that resembles the snowy peaks of the French Alps. Tip: get to Angelina’s early in the morning to beat the queues.

Emma Harrison – The tasting menus at Textur in Aalborg, Denmark (pictured above) – not only is the food delicious, but they have a great approach to food waste and use only the best seasonal products. I really enjoyed Thompson’s in Newport on the Isle of Wight too – he did an amazing fillet of John Dory with a beautiful fennel choucroute and raisin purée as well as a chilled pea mousse. Lastly, in Georgia, I recently discovered, and loved grits!

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Rachel McAlley – My absolute favourite food I’ve ever eaten while away was in North Goa on Anjuna Beach. I caught a little boat from Calangute to the famous flea market at Anjuna Beach and it was lunchtime, so I went to a little shack inside the market and ordered a Goan Fish Curry. It was served it as a Thali, and OMG it was the fittest food I have ever experienced. There were around 7 or 8 little dishes presented in a large silver tray, the main dish was Goan Fish Curry and then there were 3 different vegetarian dishes, a rice dish, a dish of hot chillies, some bread (Goan Pita and Chapati), and a glass of lassi. Seriously, I want to go back right now, just to eat this.

Alexandra Delf – Mine has to be eating SUPER fresh sushi at Tsukiji Fish Market in Tokyo. We got up early for breakfast and had the most insanely delicious breakfast of mixed sushi, no one spoke English so we pointed at pictures above the little shops and hoped for the best. What we got was a selection of freshest sashimi on a bed of rice. The best thing was exploring all the nooks of the marketplace to choose where to eat – a breakfast with a difference, which I literally crave every morning now!

Laura Bartlett – One of the best things I have ever eaten has to be lobster on the beach in Grenada. It had been freshly caught and cooked with Caribbean spices and we ate it whilst listening to people playing steel pans as the sunset. I’ve never had lobster since as I just know it will never be as good!

Jenna Clarke – I’d have to say my favourite food experience this year was definitely eating fresh Sashimi straight from the Caribbean Sea whilst in St Lucia. Sitting by the pool at Marigot Bay Resort, sipping on prosecco and eating freshly caught salmon was an absolute dream.

Vanessa Gainford – By far, it has to be the ‘Loaded Tater Tots’ in Toothsome Chocolate Emporium at Universal Studios, Orlando – a steampunk themed eatery specialising in extraordinary culinary creations.

Beth Roberts – I’m never sure if it’s the setting that makes the restaurant or the food, but either way – Hotel Esencia on Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula has it down. Slow-cooked pork tacos with sweet salsa, avocado fries and a cold local beer is always going to be delicious. But eaten overlooking the blindingly white sand of Xpu-Ha beach after a dip in their secret cenote? Unbeatable. A close second would have to be the huevos chilaquiles (spicy Mexican eggs) at local cafe Colibri in Mexico’s Isla Holbox – the prettiest pink cafe peppered with hand-painted hummingbirds.

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