Peru - House Of Coco Magazine

Argentina November 9, 2023

Women Worldwide : Not Afraid to Stand out with Camille Defago

Camille Defago might only be 21 years old, but this girl is one to watch. Born and raised in Lima, Peru she is passionate about fashion. Her mission as a designer is to empower creativity in to everyone that wears her clothes and she offers something original, vivid, and extrovert with her designs. Think bold and bright, Camille Defago is the brand that will brighten up even the darkest of days.

Entrepreneurial from a young age, Camille was always destined for greatness. We spent some time with her to find out more about her, the brand and her plans for the future…

Tell us about the journey that lead you to Camille Defago the brand… Oh my god I’ve been through so much, hahaha. When I was 15 I started designing collages but didn’t have the confidence to publish them or show them. When I moved to Buenos Aires I decided to create a Instagram account with a fake name and started posting my collages. I started getting lots of engagement and reactions so I decided to change the name to By Camille Defago. Then I moved back to Lima and printed my collages on big frames, I sold every single one of them. This encouraged me to create my first brand called Viva la Vida, it was a brand of men’s swimwear that were printed with my colorful collages. I had such a terrible experience making my first summer campaign for Viva la Vida (because of the photography and video team) that when I sold every swim short I decided to leave the brand aside and not continue with it. I didn’t want people to know me as a random brand, I wanted people to know me by my name, Camille. This is when I decided to launch myself as a designer and started creating pieces under my name as a designer. You want your customers to feel empowered when wearing your designs, how do you achieve this? I achieve this by offering extrovert, colorful, joyful designs. Each collage has a story and great memories behind them. People highlight from the rest each time they use my clothing because of the color. I don’t want them to feel ashamed about standing out from the croud, from breaking boundaries, for being different and original, I want them to feel empowered, GREAT. Achieving this through strong and bold collages. Bright, colourful and bold, your designs make a statement. Who is your dream customer? My dream customer would definitely be top celebrities. I would love someday to dress Chiara Ferragni, Alexa Chung, Bella Hadid and other jet setters. But my actual dream customer is a girl who is confident of herself, who loves everything about her, LOVES to travel and spend her summer’s in Mykonos or on the beautiful beaches of France. She is confident, strong, bold, she is light and definitely stands from the crowd. She doesn’t care what people think about herself, she is true to herself and to her personal essence.

Only 21, you have achieved so much with the brand already. What has been your proudest moment?

I know I have achieved a lot of things by now but I have so much to go through. I have so many projects, visions and idea to take my brand to the next step. My proudest moment was my first fashion show which was this December 2019. We put on a great show: 20 international and national models, we did it at a huge house which was built 50 years ago so it had a renaissance twist to it, my collages were projected on the walls of the house, 150 guests, it was amazing.

Talk us through an average day at the business?

We have a weekly team meeting every Monday in which we talk about each months objectives and each team member’s tasks. Once a month in a week meeting we brainstorm about new ideas and visions that can be added to the brand. In this way I involve my team members and consider their ideas and opinions. I want them to feel as part of the family, part of The C Team. I want them to be as passionate to the brand as I am.

What are your plans for the future? I have changed my mind many times. I wanted to open physical stores in London, Dubai, Japan, New York and others. But learning about the new consumer now a days I have decided to invest 100% on e-commerce. Our consumers are changing into online consumers, not physical. So now my plans for the future is to focus on keep selling worldwide through fashion e-commerce platforms. I also have in my plans making pop up’s in beaches like Mykonos, Ibiza, Majorca, Sardinia, Santorini, Marbella, Corfu and other top destinations. I want to focus also on creating mind-blowing fashion editorials, amazing marketing campaigns, and taking my brand all around the world! My plans for the future and my main goal right now is to have the opportunity to showcase my collections at any fashion week: Paris, London, NYC, Milan. Anyone of them would be great and huge for the brand. Since launching the brand, what has been your highlight?

Definitely having the possibility of being featured on respected fashion magazines. Literally when I started my brand, my long term goal was to be showcased in Vogue. I had less than a year with the brand and I was featured on the most respected fashion magazines in the world: Vogue, Tatler, Vanity Fair, Condé Nast Traveller.

Looking back, is there anything you would do differently? I believe everything I have been through has happened for a reason. I wouldn’t do anything different because it has made me who I am today as a designer, brand and person. I have learned so much in the business, without even studying Fashion Design. (I study communications hahaha). I know all of my experiences will take me somewhere big.

Our readers love to travel, what destination is at the top of your bucket list?

Definitely, The French Rivera, Mykonos, Amalfi, and Bali.

What quote do you like to read when you are lacking motivation? “You will never influence the world by trying to be like it” For anyone wanting to start their own fashion business, what advice would you offer?

Everything is about taking risks, you got to take risks in order to grow.

Don’t worry about stress, its just part of the process. That’s the beauty of it. Enjoy it.

JUST GO FOR IT.

What are your plans for the business in 2020?

My future for this year is to produce a swimwear collection for summer 2020 (Europe & USA), focus on creating mind-blowing editorials, and creating a beautiful campaign that involves my country, Peru. I will take and empower my collages into the three regions of Peru: Coast, Highlands & Jungle..

Find out more… www.camilledefago.comCamille has recently launched a blog on her website to talk about entrepreneurship, culture, fashion, art, and other factors that have made her and the brand what they are today..Instagram:Brand: @wearcamilledefagoPersonal: @camilledefago

Adventures November 9, 2023

St Moritz: 7 Reasons to Ski in Switzerland’s Most Glamorous Resort

The birthplace of alpine tourism, St. Moritz is a seriously swish Swiss ski destination that conjures up images of royals and rock-stars, snow polo, mountain boutiques and Moncler jackets. But this resort has serious ski credentials, having lured European high society since 1864, hosted the Winter Olympics twice, and offers visitors miles of manicured pistes. Today, the town is a dream winter destination – its frozen lake a playground for snow polo tournaments and horse racing as well as the more eclectic, like the famous Cresta toboggan run. Here are seven reasons to visit St. Moritz this winter ski season.

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1. Stay at: The Kulm

Even among the opulence of St. Moritz, The Kulm hotel sets the standard for elegance. An alpine institution in itself, this five-star hotel boasts a members-club atmosphere befitting of its heritage as the oldest hotel in town. Overlooking Lake St. Moritz, this hotel is home to glitterati types, with an equally well-polished staff, an outdoor and indoor pool, five restaurants and luxe mountain interiors. A splurge-worthy stay at a real piece of Alpine history.

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2. Drink at: Sunny Bar

The oldest sports bar in the Alps, this infamous St. Moritz hot spot is the place where these courageous Cresta Run competitors congregate to celebrate their wins. One of the most dangerous sports in the world – this ice chute winds down the mountainside with a vertical drop of 514 feet over just three-quarters of a mile. During the season, the bar hosts a Peruvian restaurant by Claudia Canessa in its historic halls, where you can feast on street food. Vintage photos of raucous parties hosted here and trophies line the walls with its old-boys club atmosphere. Altitude sports offers the best quality of ski and snowboard gears, find out more.

3. Party at: Dracula Club

Once the sun sets in St Moritz, the glitterati truly come out to play. Perhaps the most famous apres-ski bar in St. Moritz, the Roo Bar is the place to warm up with a Hauser mulled wine. By night, anyone who’s anyone can be found at the legendary Dracula Bar. Established by infamous playboy Gunter Sachs in the 1970s, the door to this day remains notoriously impenetrable. Thankfully, for those in the mood to stray a little off-piste – the Kulm Hotel also boasts close ties with the legendary members-only club. But there are plenty of other nightlife options, whether that’s the aptly named Devil’s Place – the world’s largest whisky bar or the Kulm Country Club.

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4. Ski: Corviglia

Having played host to the Winter Olympics not once but twice, St. Moritz is a spot for any serious skier. The slopes of Corvatsch offers some vertigo-inducing blacks, but St. Moritz’s own Corviglia has expanses of easy-riding runs to make even an intermediate feel like an expert – with 218 miles of runs. For warming your bones, the mountains have a host of options, like traditional alpine chalet Alpinahütte – just the spot for a glühwein.

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5. Watch: The Cresta Run

Home to the infamous Cresta Run toboggan course, first built by British upper-class gentlemen in 1884, this daredevil sport is in the bones of St Moritz. The 1,212-meter track, which is created from scratch every year, drops 157 meters reaching up to a death-defying 85mph. Riders lie head first, and foolhardy guests can apply for a slot with prices starting from $500. Having recently rescinded a ban on women competitors, the Cresta Run is open in the mornings from just before Christmas until the end of February/early March depending on weather conditions.

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6. Watch: Snow Polo

Synonymous with the sport of Snow Polo, St. Moritz’s frozen lake plays host to the prestigious World Cup Snow Polo tournament every January – the first of its kind and the only high goal polo tournament to be played on snow. The lake also hosts the annual “White Turf” horse races in February, where more than 30,000 gather to watch a combination of horse and harness racing and skikjöring – the only race of its kind in the world where riders on skis are pulled along at speeds of up to 50km per hour.

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7. Eat at:

As you might expect from a world-renowned alpine town, good food is not hard to come by in St Moritz. From simple local specialities like nut torte at historic Swiss pastry shop Hanselmann’s which has been open since 1894, to old-world chalet-style dining on the slopes like Trutz with cosy Engadine fare, to world-class fine dining at two Michelin-starred Ecco.

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For more information on Switzerland visit www.MySwitzerland.com

Swiss International Air Lines – one way fares start from £67, visit www.swiss.com

The Swiss Travel System provides a dedicated range of travel passes and tickets offering unlimited travel on consecutive days, for more information visit www.swisstravelsystem.co.uk.

Behind the bar November 9, 2023

Behind the Bar: Londons Winter Terraces

Half the fun of Christmas is the weeks leading up to it, gallivanting around London’s twinkling winter terraces indulging in a mulled wine or two and warming the cockles with Christmas spirit. Experience the magic of Londons Winter Terraces.

Each year, more and more are springing up, transforming bars into magical winter wonderlands and bringing with them menus of festive cocktails and tasty treats. If you’re in the capital over the next few weeks, be sure to check out a few of these…

Rosé on the Roof at Sea Containers

Inspired by the arctic lights, Sea Containers London is lighting up pink this winter. Follow the light over Blackfriars Bridge and along the Thames towards 112th Knot, where the rooftop is transforming into a cosy arctic winter terrace in association with Champagne Laurent-Perrier. Full of twinkling lights, and splashes of pink and with a true wintery feel, the Arctic-inspired terrace is prepared with blankets and cushions to keep you extra cosy, ready to take in the panoramic views of the city. Expect Laurent-Perrier Cuvée Rosé, along with a selection of cocktails inspired by the innovative Laurent-Perrier range.

www.seacontainerslondon.com

LIDO at The Curtain

Head down to The Curtain before 23rd December, because for the first time non-members will be able to access the exclusive member’s rooftop LIDO for the first time. Experience the magic of Christmas with its eclectic mix of festive events – 12 Days of Christmas – transforming LIDO into an enchanted winter garden, adorned with seasonal foliage, fairy light canopies, feathers and faux fur. There’s a Christmas rooftop cinema sponsored by Veuve Cliquot, a cabaret performance and a special afternoon tea collaboration with Penhaligons, alongside craft workshops ranging from lino printing and wreath masterclasses to Christmas card-making hosted by cult illustrator and ceramist Charlotte Mei.

www.thecurtain.com

Double Dutch at The Cinnamon Club

If a hot spiced gin punch and a tasty filled naan are up your street, head to the Double Dutch Winter Bar at The Cinnamon Club. The award-winning premium tonic and mixer brand, Double Dutch, has taken up residency in the iconic Old Westminster Library to celebrate the arrival of its new limited-edition seasonal flavour, ‘Rhubarb & Pineneedle’. Until the end of January, this exclusive pop-up will spice up your festive gatherings; the subterranean winter grotto is complete with frost-covered pine foliage and white winter florals lush faux fur soft furnishings, alpine forest installations and lounge seating. The talented bar team at The Cinnamon Club have collaborated with Double Dutch to create a bespoke menu of cocktails and non-alcoholic winter warmers all using Double Dutch’s award-winning mixers, alongside a bar menu featuring Bombay-inspired bar bites designed by The Cinnamon Club’s Executive Chef and CEO Vivek Singh.

www.cinnamonclub.com

Discover the captivating journey of Don Papa’s latest masterpiece, the Sevillana Cask Finish Rum, exclusively unveiled in our feature on House of Coco.

Sheraton Grand London Park Lane – Chocolate Box Winter Terrace

The Sheraton Grand London Park Lane has teamed up with French pâtissier and celebrity chef, Eric Lanlard, to bring the ‘Chocolate Box Winter Terrace’ to its five-star London hotel this festive season, transforming the terrace into an indulgent chocolate wonderland with opulent décor and bespoke chocolate bars, paired with decadent cocktails. Taking inspiration from the traditional treats you would usually find in a Christmas selection box, the ‘Chocolate Box Winter Terrace’ will offer five never-before-seen chocolate bars, crafted using Eric Lanlard’s exclusive recipes for the hotel. Made using the finest chocolate and premium ingredients – from a salted butter caramel bar, a dark chocolate shell encasing an oozing rich and buttery salted toffee, to a luxury white chocolate bar with a cardamom ganache decorated with edible jewels and 23-carat gold – each bar will also be paired with a delicious festive cocktail.

www.marriott.com

Duck & Waffle’s Nordic Wonderland

This Christmas, winter enchantment takes hold of Duck & Waffle, offering an immersive experience full of fun and festivity that revellers will never forget. Snow-covered trees, glistening icicles and other winter trimmings welcome Duck & Waffle guests to the 40th floor, whisking them away to a whimsical winter fairy tale.

The journey starts at the bar, where guests will be surrounded by an artistic take on the season’s magical winter trimmings, while in the dining room, a chalet-style getaway will add warmth and wonder, inviting guests to an ambience akin to a cosy Alpine getaway. Add the restaurant’s heritage of playful British fare to the mix and the charming space becomes a sumptuous seasonal refuge from the season’s hustle and bustle below. Executive Chef Elliott Grover’s festive specials, available throughout the season, and specially curated Christmas Day menu is chock full of traditional ingredients like pumpkin, truffle and cranberry, all reinterpreted with signature culinary creativity.

www.duckandwaffle.com

Sushisamba’s Amazonia Rainforest Celebration

This Christmas season, SUSHISAMBA is transformed into SAMBAZONIA, a magical rainforest full of spirit and surprise. Always pushing culinary and cultural boundaries with unbridled creativity, SUSHISAMBA will honour the beauty and bounty of the Amazonian rainforest in an all-season-long experience unlike any other.

An unexpected holiday expedition, SAMBAZONIA is offering guests an immersive, mystical celebration ignited by music, colour and bespoke design, with the installation featuring 500 LED lights throughout the restaurant, changing colour every 30 seconds. Open until January, SUSHISAMBA will also be supporting its long-standing charity partner throughout, Cool Earth, and its efforts to help halt rainforest deforestation in the Amazon.

www.sushisamba.com

Adventures November 9, 2023

Top destinations for a boating holiday in the winter

Boating is definitely one of the most popular choices for holidays in winter, as you can escape the cold and enjoy some sun and blue waters in countries that are warm all year long. Besides that, yacht charter holidays are great for the ultimate relaxation, giving you a sense of luxury and independence. The best part about boating holidays, however, is how easy it is to book. There are some high quality yacht charter companies that make boat hire as simple as booking a hotel.

After that, it is only a matter of choosing the perfect destination. Here are some of the most beautiful boating holiday destinations:

Latin America

One of the most impressive destinations for a yacht charter is Latin America, with an endless list of places and countries to visit within the area. Latin America’s coast is inundated with deserted beaches where you can stop off to explore.

To experience the always passionate Latin culture, you can also visit Brazil, Argentina or Colombia. These have plenty of vibrant coastal cities to explore, full of never-ending parties, events or restaurants breathing of Latin culture.

For family holidays with a yacht charter, visiting the nature of South America and spotting some exotic animals on the way is a perfect holiday. Boating through the Amazon river will provide you with a great chance to feel adventurous and lose yourself in the wild nature. The coast of Brazil has plenty of opportunities to spot whales and dolphins as well.

Australia

Australia is a great yachting destination for a yacht charter in the winter because of the great year-round weather. In fact, it’s summer in Australia when it is winter in the UK and US, making it a great trip in the January time if you enjoy a lot of heat.

Australia is a great destination, but it varies widely on which coast you want to travel around. This gives you great variety: you could visit the popular surfing beaches, shopping and bars on the east coast, and also see the outback and more local coastline of the North or East.

Dubai

If you are hoping for a truly luxurious holiday, a yacht trip around Dubai will definitely meet all your expectations. The wealth of the country makes it very accommodating to visitors on yachts, with the vibrant coastal cities full of restaurants and shopping opportunities. The amazing view of the modern cities with some of the tallest buildings in the world make some great opportunities for photoshoots.

Besides Dubai being so modern and always busy, it also has some breath-taking nature views to offer. For instance, the Palm islands are a great contrasting destination to escape the cities for a day.

Final Word On Winter Yacht Charter

Many people’s ideas of the perfect holiday match up exactly with a boat trip: relaxing and luxurious, yet adventurous. What stops some people from experiencing it is the fear of deep waters. However, a boat trip can actually help you get over the fear of being at sea, which makes it worth trying.

There are many other incredible destinations for yachting holidays. Yacht charter in the British Virgin Islands or the US Virgin islands are some of the most common choices. The beauty of it though, is you can always be on the move and visit a wide variety of destinations in one trip. Go for it!

Brazil November 9, 2023

Women Worldwide : Letting Fear be the Fuel with Nathalia Grisard

Nathalia Grisard is the brainchild behind GNGR Bees and someone who is not only well traveled but well suited to the role of entrepreneur. She started in the fashion industry at the mere age of 16, back in her hometown of Brazil and from here she went on a mission to conquer the world, not letting fear hold her back. Having worked with a number of fashion houses, she decided that the time had come to launch her own brand and express her passions through nature, empowerment and health. That is when GNGR bees was born.

Here, she tells us more about why her clothes make you feel empowered, her plans for the future and more…

Tell us about the journey that lead you to launching GNGR Bees…

I didn’t start out wanting to create my own business but as a consumer looking for brands that were consistent with my own values and beliefs. For me, that meant finding a brand that wasn’t driven by mindless consumerism and had a greater sense of responsibility and identity. GNGR as a brand started as I struggled to find that. Today, having embodied those values into a business, I’m very proud to have created fashion with purpose for a much better world.

The brand is all about reclaiming, recycling and up cycling. Can you tell us more about this?

Giving new life to materials that would otherwise be disposed in our environment is at the heart of what we do. We partner up with social enterprises and companies that have the same values as us and believe business should be done differently. Together, we create every element of GNGR Bee’s supply chain, such as our up cycled packaging that can be used in many different ways once they get to our clients homes and of course our clothing, which is currently made by recycling plastic bottles.

What is your mission with the brand?

My mission put simply, is empowerment. We want to empower people to consciously make better decisions when they purchase new products. Everything we buy tells a story, and it’s up to you to choose which one you want to tell.

How do you want people to feel when they wear your clothes?

I want them to feel like they are wearing more than just clothing. They are wearing fashion that is empowering, cleaning and saving the planet. They are wearing their values and standing up for everything they believe in. Our garments are more than clothing, they are a story – from the plastic bottles that are rescued, to the special needs adults that hand paint the clothing sacks and the community in Rwanda that create our packaging. I want them to feel proud of telling this story and realising that when they join the GNGR family they are writing the next chapter.

What are your plans for the brand in 2020?

There is a lot happening in 2020. Since launching last September, I came to understand even more so what I wanted GNGR Bees to be. Our mission and our values are strong and drive everything we do. 2020 will bring collections that will go beyond reclaiming materials, a special wellness retreat and we will be embracing more community partners and also funding our own projects!

Who’s your dream customer?

Every woman is my dream customer! A free spirit, she loves moving her body and doing whatever gives her joy. She is taking on the world whilst still caring about how her actions impact the ones around her and our planet!

Outside of the brand, what do you do for fun?

I am a true life adventurer – I absolutely love everything that has movement involved. I have a lot of energy so I am always trying new active things and I try finding life balance with yoga and cuddles with my golden retriever, Sammy.

Looking back, since launching the brand, is there anything you would do differently?

No. I wouldn’t. My brand took me on a journey where I learned a lot and I think every mistake I made was essential to its development. Before I even launched there was a lot people with different opinions over what and how I should do it. Was nice to hear different feedback however I quickly learned to trust my gut, and since then, it has become my best business partner.

What does self care mean to you?

To me, it means respecting my needs and wants and prioritising them over my crazy routine. Usually my body asks for activity and nature, and doing that feels wonderful. On rare days, all it wants to do is to eat vegan junk food and watch Netflix, also fine! The body asks what it needs and it’s important to listen!

You have learned a lot on your journey since launching the brand, what has been the biggest lesson?

A product without a purpose and brand is just a product.

Our readers love to travel, what destination is at the top of your bucket list?

Peru!!!! I have always loved travelling to culturally rich places and immersing myself in the middle of it all. Nothing beats knowing a place like the locals do and I have been curious about the forests of Peru and Machu Picchu for an eternity!

Tell us your favourite quote to read when you are lacking inspiration…

“A candle loses nothing by lighting another candle”. When we support each other and expect nothing back, the room becomes a lot brighter and it’s important to trust the ones around you. My family, husband and friends are always encouraging me to go a step further and I never need to look far for inspiration and love.

Where can people find out more…

At our website at gngrbees.com or on our Instagram @gngrbees.

Argentina November 9, 2023

Discover Michelin star dining in Marbella

If you don’t know Marbella then you might think the dining scene doesn’t get much better than celeb hangouts, La Sala and Olivia’s, however you couldn’t be more wrong. Just a stone’s throw away from the Old Town of Marbella is a jewel in the Costa del Sol culinary crown, Michelin star restaurant Messina.

If you are a keen foodie looking for sophisticated dining and a gourmet treat, then this place is a must. This contemporary restaurant, with minimalist décor offers an upscale dining experience without feeling snobby. Open plan, bright and airy, Messina is chic and unpretentious with friendly and welcoming waiting staff.

The menu is a collection of eclectic unique tastes combining flavours from Spain, South America and Asia, all created by Argentinian chef, Mauricio Giovanini. Messina is named after the Italian city his grandparents come from and has held a Michelin star since 2016, when he became the third Argentine to win the highest accolade in the world of gastronomy.

Giovanini is passionate about using fresh, local produce and his menu experiments with exciting flavours and textures offering a creative menu paired with some of the best wine. It really is a feasting experience and his adventure for flavour seeps through his tasting menu which Team Coco was lucky enough to sample.

The menu regularly changes depending on what’s in season but when I visited there was 10 bite sized dishes to try, all packing punchy flavours. There’s a great balance of vegetarian, seafood and meat plates to keep most palates happy. My menu at Messina included the following:

Yucca, creamy pickled aubergine and marinated red peppers
Creamy chimichurri, tomato, and lemon
Typical Argentinean manioc flour bread
Sea urchin mi-cuit and celery root water
Garganelli cooked in mirepoix stock served with aubergine and goat cheese
Grilled white sea bass with grilled vegetables
Cow sweet bread served with creamy lemon stew and spinach
Iberian pork with creamy lentils and roasted onion
Caramelized pineapple sorbet, red pepper and pisco sour
Creamy black and milky chocolate, dulce de leche and peanut

My favourite was the Iberian pork, it was delicious, and tender served with creamy lentils and roasted onion. I literally savoured every morsel. I loved the whole menu, the tasting experience is a great way to try out Michelin star dining and at 69 Euros per head it’s good value.
If you don’t fancy the Michelin star treatment at Messina then Giovanini is sprinkling his culinary magic at Amare Beach Hotel Marbella with the creation of Hayaca, the hotel’s new pop up restaurant, featuring a fusion of different Latin American dishes.

Team Coco travelled to Marbella courtesy of Amare Beach Hotel Marbella. For more information visit www.amarehotels.com/marbella

To book a table at Messina visit www.restaurantemessina.com

Bolivia November 9, 2023

Everything You Need To Know About Visiting The Amazon Rainforest

The Amazon is a destination high up on many bucket lists but given it takes up 40% of South America, it can be hard to know where to begin. In this article, we cover everything you need to know from the best season to visit, to the most popular activities. We also compare visiting the Amazon in Peru, Brazil and Ecuador so you know which destination will suit you best.
Best time to visit the Amazon
Obviously it’s best to wait until after the Covid-19 outbreak has settled and life is back to normal but no matter what season it is, always expect the Amazon to be wet, humid and warm. But there are two distinct seasons that make up the climate of the Amazon, the wet and dry season.
The dry season begins in July and lasts until December, temperatures average between 26 to 40ºC (or 78 to 104ºF). You can still expect to endure heavy rain showers, but it is a lot less than compared to the rainy season. This means river levels stay low and it’s easier to explore the jungle on foot.
The wet season runs from January to June and offers cooler temperatures between 23 and 30ºC (73 to 86ºF). The heavy rainfall does make the rainforest a cooler place to explore and the high-water levels in the river make cruising easier and gives you the option for swimming. However, with more rain comes higher humidity and mosquitos are in abundance.
How to get there
The Amazon is huge, currently occupying 40% of South America, so you’d think to visit it would be easier. The Amazons span from Brazil in the east through to Peru, Colombia, Ecuador and Bolivia in the west. To get there, the best option is by plane. For Brazil, you can fly directly in Manaus, the biggest city in the Amazon region. If you’re heading to Peru, you can fly directly into Iquitos, this is the same with Ecuador where you can fly from the capital Quito to Coca in only 40 minutes. To see the Amazon in Bolivia it will require more planning and often a flight and then onward transport.
What you can see
The question should be what you can’t see! The Amazon rainforest is home to 10% of the world’s animals, from sloths to monkeys, leopards and toucans. If you are an animal enthusiast, you will be spoilt for choice. Don’t forget to bring your binoculars, so you can get up close to the forest trees and canopies, you never know when you might spot a brightly coloured macaw. But don’t forget to look down at the ground! The rainforest ground is home to many snakes, some deadly such as the anacondas and boa constrictors.
When going on a river cruise you can expect to see capybara’s playing in the wetlands, tapirs and cunning caimans eyeing up dinner. The murky waters are also home to many fish from piranhas to the endangered pink river dolphins.
But it’s not just animals, the Amazon is home to a huge variety of flora and fauna from giant water lily pads to banana trees. The whole rainforest is alive and waiting to be explored.
Activities in the Amazon
There are many activities you can enjoy in the Amazon. The most popular include river cruises and jungle walks. The best time to explore the jungle is night, when it comes alive, opt for an after-dark jungle walk and spot everything from creepy crawlies to armadillos and sun bears. Other activities include learning traditional crafts from native villagers, archery, river rafting, swimming and camping out under the stars. Visiting a native village is a must, it’s important to learn about their connection to the jungle, the role they play as gatekeepers and the importance of their indigenous way of life.
Essentials to pack
The Amazon is hot and humid no matter what the season, so it’s important to pack moisture-wicking clothing. Also, remember long sleeves and long trousers are your best bet. These will help prevent any unwanted insect bites. There are a few other essentials you need to pack
• A head torch for nights in the jungle
• Lots of mosquito spray that has plenty of DEET
• Hiking or walking shoes that are waterproof
• High SPF sunscreen
• A sun hat for when hiking
Also, remember to bring any necessary toiletries or sanitary items. Supplies will be limited in the Amazon and it will be hard to find daily essentials so don’t forget your toothbrush!
How to ensure you travel responsibly
The Amazon rainforest is endangered, so it’s important to ensure your visit helps ensure its survival. You are visiting one of the most diverse eco-climates in the world, it needs to be treated with respect. Remember to take all your rubbish with you and never litter, invest in a reusable bottle with water filtration system and refill it at your hotel or accommodation and try and cut down on your use of throw away plastics.
Remember to always keep a respectful distance from animals and wildlife, this is not only for their protection, but also yours, remember the Amazon is home to many poisonous animals. Listen to your guide, they will always keep you right. Even if you think it’ll make the ultimate selfie, if your guide doesn’t approve it, don’t do it.
Most importantly choose a guide and accommodation option that gives back to the local community. If local people can make a living through tourism, they’ll be less likely to want to damage the Amazon. Some eco-focused accommodation options employ local people and give a percentage of your payment to a local environmental charity. It’s important to research this before going.
Best spots to visit in the Amazon
Below we’ve outlined a few options for you to help you choose the best destination to visit the Amazon.
Manaus, Brazil
Manus is a huge city located in the Amazon, home to around 2 million residents. It is the gateway to the Amazon from Brazil and is a popular spot for tourists to start their journey, because of this, there are plenty of tour operators offering river cruises and trekking trips to suit every budget.
Manaus also has the popular sight dubbed, ‘the meeting of the water.’ This is where the two biggest rivers in Brazil, the Rio Negro and Rio Solimoes meet to form the mighty Amazon. The perfect sight to see before embarking on your Amazon adventure.
Puerto Maldonado and Iquitos, Peru
In Peru, you have two choices for exploring the Amazon. The most popular is Iquitos, which is a big city that is based on the Amazon river. It boasts access to the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve, which is home to the endangered pink river dolphins. The best way to experience the Amazon here is by staying in a jungle lodge or enjoying a river cruise.
You can reach Iquitos by a direct flight from Lima. However, if you are looking for something quieter then head to Puerto Maldonado which is in the south-east of the country and offers great opportunities for exploring the Tambopata National Reserve. You can reach the area by plane from Lima.There is more emphasis here on rain forest tours and the best way to experience everything the jungle has to offer it’s recommended you stay in a jungle lodge. Accessing the Amazon in Peru is quicker than Brazil or Ecuador, so it’s common for people to combine a trek of Machu Pichu alongside a jungle stay in Iquitos.
Coca, Ecuador
Coca is the gateway to the Amazon in Ecuador. Located on the Napo River, the protected areas of Yasuni National Park and Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve are located nearby. If you are looking for quick access to the Amazon, then Ecuador offers this, with flights from Quito to Coca only 40 minutes. The Amazon here is one of the most diverse places on earth. The area is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 600 species being spotted in the park and over a third of the birdlife found in the Amazon calling it home.
Planning a trip to the Amazon?
The last thing you want when travelling to the Amazon is hauling your heavy bags. Have you ever considered using a luggage shipping service like MyBaggage.com? Save money and time by sending your items direct to your destination. Luggage shipping gives you a stress-free alternative, so you don’t have to worry about excessive airline baggage fees or carrying your heavy backpacks through the airport.

Bolivia November 9, 2023

Celebrate Fiestas Patrias on 28 July with the best Peruvian bites in London

At #TeamCoco, we are rather travel-obsessed, and love to celebrate cultural days from all over the globe. Tomorrow, Saturday 28 July, is Peruvian Independence Day, known as ‘Fiestas Patrias’, and we’ve rounded up our four favourite Peruvian foodie hotspots around London. We love a celebration, particularly when it involves enjoying ceviche and a pisco sour.

LIMA: For something a little more upmarket, you have to try Michelin-starred restaurant, LIMA. LIMA is a representation of the gastronomic expansion that has taken place in Peru during the last few years, with the idea of showcasing Lima to London, as the gastronomic capital of the Americas. Peruvian cuisine is a melting pot of different cultures which have come together to form a unique blend of flavours and techniques. The restaurant is the creation of world-renowned Peruvian chef, Virgilio Martinez and his partners, Gabriel & José-Luis Gonzalez. Robert Ortiz, Virgilio’s long-time friend, runs the kitchen. The restaurant in Fitzrovia showcases the very best Peruvian flavours and ingredients in a clean and contemporary style. Team Coco’s menu tip: Make sure you try the Octopus Olivo

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Andina and Ceviche family: Serving fresh, colourful and well balanced dishes and drinks inspired by the Peruvian Andes with a healthy London twist, the Andina/Ceviche family restaurants are calm and comfortable by day and buzzing by night, located in Shoreditch, Old Street, Notting Hill and Soho. On 28th July, Ceviche Old Street will be pouring out the pisco sours for the Peru Independence Day Fiesta. For one day only, they are bringing together the diverse flavours of coastal Peru, the mountainous Andes, and cosmopolitan capital Lima for a celebratory feast, with DJs including Martin Morales himself manning the decks late into the evening. If you prefer a brunch, the Ceviche Soho team has introduced a brunch menu, including exquisite sweet and savoury dishes like any style eggs served on their signature Choclo corn cake, and decedent pancakes with dulce de leche cream. Team Coco menu tip: Go for the Lychee-Guanabana Bellini at Ceviche Soho

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Pachama: Pachamama is a Peruvian-inspired bar & restaurant in Marylebone that is dedicated to making the most of the extraordinary ingredients available in the UK. The cocktail menu is Pisco-focused and don’t fear, their cupboards are fully stocked with Mezcal. There is a weekend feast menu, a vegetarian menu, and the tastiest Peruvian bar snacks around – we love it and are sure you will too. Team Coco menu tip: Be sure to taste the cheddar tequenos bar snack

https://www.instagram.com/p/BhuG_S-BhGV/?hl=en&taken-by=pachamamalondon

Chicama: Chicama is a seafood restaurant in Chelsea with a menu inspired by the coastal food of Peru and the bold-flavours of Peruvian cuisine – it is also the sister restaurant of Pachama. The restaurant is based on Chicama beach in Northern Peru, hence the name. Here, there is a laid back vibe; the smell of the seafood drifts through the restaurant and the pale pink shell tiles creates a beach hut atmosphere, if you close your eyes, you can almost hear the ocean as you sip a Pisco sour. There is a daily delivery of fresh fish and the innovative veggie dishes illustrate how wonderful British produce really is. The bar has a pretty impressive and vast booze menu, including Pisco, Mezcal, Japanese Whiskey, Sake by the glass and a varied wine list to accompany the vibrantly-flavoured food. Team Coco menu tip: The crispy battered fish bun is like eating a cloud of deliciousness

https://www.instagram.com/p/Blf1ANjgV9T/?hl=en&taken-by=chicamalondon

Adventures November 9, 2023

Destination Inspiration: a round up of alternative less discovered global places to visit

Here at House of Coco we are always on the look out for off-the-beaten-track alternatives and less discovered global destinations. So when we stumbled across Rome2rio’s ‘Not Spots’, a nifty new tool to help globetrotters discover the road less travelled we decided to put it to the test and find some new destinations away from the tourist-heavy hot spots that will deliver a flavour of the local culture and a more authentic travel experience.
If you find you’ve been to most of the popular traditional holiday destinations and are looking for some fresh ideas, here’s a roundup of alternative suggestions:

Beach lovers

If you love the beaches of the Greek Islands, for example, switch it up and try the sandy stretches of the Albanian Riviera. Albania’s southern coast has everything to rival its Mediterranean neighbours. Here you’ll find miles of breath-taking coastline, vibrant sunsets and golden beaches lapped by turquoise waters – with a fraction of the crowds and at a fraction of the cost. From seafood feasts in Ksamil to the UNESCO-listed ancient city of Butrint, this less-developed part of the Med has everything you need for a low-key, yet still-perfect, beach holiday

Architecture fans

If architecture is more your thing and you are bored of Prague’s stag culture then head to Sighisoara in Transylvania. In a region fuelled by myths and legends, this place is straight out of a fairy tale. Located in Romania’s Transylvania region, the Unesco-protected fortified old town is a dreamscape of medieval splendour, a rainbow of pastel-hued houses, a tumble of church spires and a maze of cobblestone lanes, all tucked within the ancient city walls. Be sure to climb the Clock Tower for exquisite views over the city that is said to be the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, or Dracula.

Culture vultures

Culture vultures who have been captivated by Rio’s iconic Carnival should consider returning to South America but to Bolivia next time to experience the nine-day Carnaval de Oruro. Millions of travellers have made the pilgrimage to Rio to experience the five-day spectacle, but considerably fewer travellers are aware of Bolivia’s equally vibrant, colourful and historic answer to Rio Carnival: the Carnaval de Oruro. Taking place over nine days, starting the Saturday before Ash Wednesday, Carnaval de Oruro dates to the 17th century when Spanish settlers banned the traditional ceremonies of the native Itu people. Today, the Carnaval de Oruro is an homage to the Virgin of Candelaria, bringing together some 28,000 dancers and 10,000 musicians in at beautiful and spectacular celebration that’s an important touchstone of Bolivian culture.

Music fans

Music fans who find Austin, Texas too ‘hipster’ can head to Omaha, Nebraska and discover the city’s history of jazz, funk and rock as well as today’s indie rock ‘Omaha Sound’.

Thrill seekers

Thrill-seekers who have “done” Machu Picchu should consider Choquequirao – a similar Incan site abandoned in 1572. The fabled Inca citadel of Machu Picchu makes a regular appearance on travel bucket lists for good reason: hiking the Inca Trail to the ancient city is once-in-a-lifetime experience. However, the ever-growing crowds have led to increasingly restricted access to Peru’s most famous ruin, which was never meant to host thousands of people each day. Although you’ll still be able to visit by booking a timeslot in advance, consider visiting Peru’s lesser-known ‘lost city’ instead.

The Inca ruins at Choquequirao are even bigger than its more-popular sibling, with a towering citadel swathed in cloud and tumbling terraces sprawled over multiple mountain slopes. The site, still only partially cleared, is buried deep in the jungle, meaning the only way to currently get there is via a challenging four-day return hike. This is true adventure and authentic exploration at its best; be sure to go before the proposed cable car to the site is built, when numbers will undoubtedly soar.

The “Not Spots” guide pinpoints the most popular holiday hot spots across the globe and recommends alternative destinations that offer a comparable experience but without the tourist crowds. Visit www.rome2rio.com/not-spots.

Burundi May 25, 2022

Success Worldwide : The One with The Wild Nettle Co.

Self care is a phrase on everyones lips, it can mean anything from long walks in nature, relaxing soaks in the bath or taking extra care of your skin and hair. If it’s the latter, then there is one brand that we just can’t get enough of and that’s The Wild Nettle Co.

Founded by Bronwyn Francis, the brand started out like many others before. Realising there was a lack of natural remedies for her son, she went out to create her own. A true trailblazer at heart and she didn’t even know it.

The Wild Nettle Co. incorporates the natural benefits and anti-inflammatory properties of Stinging Nettles. You know, those things that you used to rub on your legs when you were a kid! Who knew?

We spent some time with Bronwyn to find out more…

Tell us about the journey that lead you to launching your brand, The Wild Nettle Co…

I’ve always had an interest in all things natural, seeking out home remedies, alternative medicines or dietary changes whenever possible to manage allergies or illnesses.

My son has battled with eczema since birth. In 2020, when he was 2yrs old I felt like it was an ongoing vicious cycle with the countless steroid creams, emollients, and ointments that were being prescribed by the GP – some worked for a short time, and some not at all. This led me to investigate and search for a natural remedy.

I knew nettles had wonderful anti-inflammatory properties, and they were growing in abundance around our rural property in Scotland, so I experimented with a nettle oil infusion first. Then formulated a rich body butter with the nettle oil and other natural butters and essential oils, and used it on my son’s skin over a few weeks.

I was really pleased with the results, the effects were great, so soothing for his symptoms. After a friend tried it on her son’s bad eczema and loved the results too, I looked into how I could offer this to others in the same position.

A lot of research, experimentation and the required cosmetic safety assessments meant I could sell to the public.

The soap followed shortly after, and now the range of nettle products includes Hair & Scalp oil, Shampoo bars and Nettle balm for joint and muscle pain, and more.

How do you want people to feel when using your products?

I want people to feel pampered and confident, and ultimately relief of their symptoms knowing they’re using a natural product that is both kind to their skin, as well as the planet.

Looking back since launching the brand, is there anything you would do differently?

I did the best I could with what I knew and the vision I had for the brand. In hindsight, it would have been amazing to have some help, as I did everything myself.

Helping eco conscious women take care of themselves and their family is at the forefront fo what you do. Why was this important to you and how do you achieve this?

The Eco-conscious element of my business is so important because of how relevant climate change is at the moment, every effort should be made, however small, to make more eco-conscious choices.

I feel strongly that women play such an important role in looking after their families, and are often making the choices for family members too – I think of a mum looking after her children’s eczema flair-up, a wife looking after her husband’s psoriasis, a daughter worried about her elderly mum’s arthritis, or concerned for her own dry, itchy scalp – these are the actual customers who contact me or chat with me at markets, who are looking for natural, effective and sustainable products for themselves and their loved ones, to reduce the use of steroid products on their bodies, but also reduce their use of plastic, and are aware of their impact on the environment.

All Wild Nettle products are in glass or recyclable packaging, and our orders are packaged using plastic-free materials.

I have recently signed up with TreeApp to plant a tree for every online order received – it’s a great global tree planting initiative empowering local people to execute the rehabilitation and reforestation of areas all over the world, including Ethiopia, Kenya, Burundi, Tanzania, Mozambique, Madagascar, Guinea, Peru, Nepal, and Indonesia. It’s an initiative that I’ve been using personally for some time, and have now signed The Wild Nettle Co. up for the service too

I was delighted recently to learn that The Wild Nettle Co had won the Scotland Prestige Awards 2022/2023 for Eco-Friendly Products Store of the Year – it came as a big surprise, but the recognition really reinforced the work I’m doing, and hopefully, the exposure will reach a lot more people to introduce them to the benefits of nettles, and convince them to switch to a natural, more eco-friendly alternative.

Who’s involved in the business and what are their roles?

I handle everything alone most of the time, so I feel like I know my customers, I make every product, and select and pack every order.

I do have an invaluable assistant named Kyle, who I’ve known for 25+ years, who helps me with production when things get busy or I’m preparing for a bigger event.

Do you plans to launch new products in the future?

Yes, I am currently working on the final formulations for 3 new products which is always an exciting time. I’ll be posting about these on social media, so follow for updates @thwildnettleco.

For anyone interested in launching a wellness business, what advice would you offer them?

Understand your customers and their needs well – keep finding out more and this way you’ll be able to serve them well. And ask for help when you can, it can be a lot to do alone.

Talk us through an average day in your life…

I’m a mum of 2 young ones who are up early every day, so we get up and try to get out for a walk early before breakfast, and then it’s the school run.

While my children are at school I am most productive, getting small batches of products made, orders packaged up, social media posts, and any other admin, ordering of stock that is required. I prepare for the upcoming outdoor markets that I trade at on Sundays – which I love for face-to-face interaction with customers.

What do you do when you are lacking creativity?

Some of my best ideas come to me in the shower – water helps me think. Otherwise, I put on some music and take a walk – I do a lot of thinking on walks, clearing my mental clutter and organising my thoughts and ideas. Also, a great motivator is reading through customer reviews on Trustpilot to remind me how people feel after using the products.

What is your go-to quote when lacking motivation?

“It always seems impossible until it is done” – Nelson Mandela

Our readers love to travel, what destination is on your must-visit list?

My dream wish-list trip right now is a yoga wellness retreat in Mexico

What does self-care mean to you?

Self care means dedicating time for yourself and doing something that makes your soul happy and content. For me, it can be anything from playing the piano, reading, taking a walk in nature with my dog, doing sudoku puzzles, or crocheting while watching a favourite show.

Where do you see the brand in the next 5 years?

In 5 years I’d like to see growth of the brand to a point where more and more customers love and share the products. I’d love bigger premises with a team of people producing more Nettle goodies. I have loads of ideas for more products. I don’t want to lose the personal touch and dedication that there is now, my passion is fuelled daily when I receive wonderful feedback and happiness with results from happy customers. That is what keeps me doing what I do.

Where can people find out more?

Instagram and Facebook @thewildnettleco or the website and online store www.thewildnettleco.com