Republic of Ireland - House Of Coco Magazine

Lifestyle November 9, 2023

5 books to inspire a British roadtrip

Here at House of Coco wanderlusting is in our blood, but we’re turning our eyes away from Caribbean waters and towards our own shores for a little while. A reading list for curious souls, home-birds and budget travellers alike, these soul-souring stories exploring the connection between nature and the human-psyche against the backdrop of the British countryside, will supply you with a longing to explore every corner and crevice of the island we call home.

The Field Guide to Getting Lost – Rebecca Solnit

Much like being alone, the feeling of loss or being lost in a world which demands anchorage to people, things and places, is synonymous with uncertainty and terror. Rebecca Solnit’s investigation into the pleasures and fears of being lost unpacks the delicate layers of existence and considers loss as a state of mind which spans both the metaphysical and the metaphorical. Drawing connections between real world subjects from mapmaking to long distance running, Solnit weaves memoir with history and philosophical musings of discovery in glittering, dreamlike prose. To always be found and never lost, Solnit argues, is to miss the crux of life. For solo travellers, lonely hearts and wandering souls, read these wistful words and discover ways to indulge and enjoy the act of getting lost.

The Wild Places – Robert Macfarlane

Wild is perhaps not the first word that springs to mind when one thinks of Great Britain, but Robert Macfarlane delves into the forgotten corners of our isle in a series of adventures which bring light to the archipelago’s most rustic landscapes; blending history and memoir The Wild Places sweeps across rugged coastlines to ancient forests in perfect prose. A travelogue for those with a wanderlust and a hankering for home, turn your eyes towards the true wild places left in Britain and Ireland and find a slice of adventure on your own shores.

To the River: A Journey Beneath the Surface – Olivia Liang

A compulsive recollection of the relationship between the land and the water in the dizzy summer heat, Olivia Liang meanders along the River Ouse in Sussex, which claimed the life of Virginia Wolf in 1941. Meandering from the river’s source in the Sussex countryside to open waves, Liang ponders the physical and emotional effect of nature in tune to the River’s rushing currant. The life and literary worlds of Wolf are ever-present in Liang’s mind as she blends memoir, biography and nature writing amongst a steady flow of literary and academic references. To the River is a hypnotic and absorbing read for literature lovers and those yearning for a slice of the English countryside.

Sea Room: An island life – Adam Nicolson

Adam Nicolson’s Sea Room chronicles his father’s purchase of three isolated and uninhabited islands in the Outer Hebrides following an advertisement in a local newspaper. Enthralled by the promise of unspoiled coastlines abundant with bird and marine life, the wild and wonderful isles become the core of Adam’s very existence. After inheriting the islands at 21, Adam recounts his island adventures and the mythical tales of witchcraft and murder which surround it. For those who crave the tranquillity and freedom of island life, this raw and unspoiled existence will leave you longing for a secluded escape.

The Salt Path – Raynor Winn

A story of tragic loss woven with the healing powers of nature, The Salt Path accounts the journey of Raynor and her husband, who following the loss of their home and the onset of terminal illness, decide to walk the 630 miles of the South West Coast Path from Somerset to Dorset. Weighed down by grief for what they have lost and what is still left to lose, they live wildly along the rugged cliffs which line the English coastline and rebuild a new and unique sense of home beyond bricks and mortar. This tantalising read chronicling an impulsive test of strength and endurance will pull your heart strings and leave you wanting for ancient weathered coves and briny sea air.

Food & Drink November 9, 2023

#CocoFood; Wine Tasting 101

As you may know #TeamCoco are a bunch of foodies, no matter where we are in the world, alongside our passion for travel and adventure, is a need for cuisine; whether that be street food, canapés or a seven course Michelin star taster menu. Yet, there is one thing that tends to go in hand with each meal… drinks. From coffee to champagne, the right drink can make or break the food you’re eating.

The main drink that trips us up however is wine. Whether you’re in a bar, restaurant or fancy establishment, you are normally presented with a glass of the wine in which you are expected to commence the see, swill, smell and sample routine. For a while we had no idea what we were actually doing and if you’re thinking ‘I literally have no idea what I’m meant to do’ then keep on reading! As to master this little trick has widened our horizons and has totally changed our perspective on wine and our palette!

The traditional explanation of this routine is that you are tasting the wine to make sure it’s not corked, which is odd nowadays as this rarely occurs and also seems a bit pointless if the bottle doesn’t even have a cork… Originally the ‘head’ of the table tasted the wine to prove that it is safe to drink, which is why the person buying the wine is usually presented it first.

So with these two points essentially being null, why do we still go through this little ritual? Well its all part of the experience. Swirling the glass draws oxygen into the glass and aerates the wine, enhancing the scent. Smelling the wine allows you to draw on certain ingredients within the wine which will essentially intensify the flavour.

Swirling the glass also makes the wine slosh around, leaving residue on the sides of the glass, this is because the wine is evaporating. It’s at this point people utter phrase ‘it’s got good legs’ which for us was a moment where we would just nod and agree.

The legs of are the droplets left on the side of the glass after you have swirled the wine. The legs often indicate two things; alcohol content and sweetness. The more droplets the higher the alcohol content, which often results in a warmer sensation in your throat after drinking. The slower the droplets drip down the glass, the sweeter the wine.

After these little assessments is when you take the first sip, simply take a sip, open your mouth slightly and let the wine rest in your mouth for a few seconds to let it oxidise and release its aromas and flavour before closing your mouth. This is your chance to speak up and let them know if the wine is not to your taste, is faulty or has been corked, if you leave it until you’ve drank half your glass, the waiter/sommelier won’t take you seriously. If you think it’s great then let them know and drink up!

These few tips are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to wine tasting so if you truly want to be a wine connoisseur, then we definitely recommend booking a wine tasting session!

If you’re lucky enough to escape for some winter sun, you are bound to find family vineyards, authentic wineries and more! If not then although the UK may not be the first place that comes to mind for a wine tasting but the cold winter months can be the perfect time to discover a new hobby and finally master the art of wine tasting.

France November 9, 2023

The Best Ski Resort For Summer? The Annapurna In Les Gets

When it comes to the French Alps, #TeamCoco are familiar with those white winter wonderlands, those hair-raising red runs and, of course, gorging on cheese fondue in a whirling snowstorm. But what on earth happens when the snow melts away? We sent Rachael Lindsay out to the brand new Annapurna in Les Gets, in the midst of summer, to find out.

I have to admit that I expected Les Gets to be a ghost town in summer. Perhaps a few closed ski shops and half-empty tartiflette restaurants. So imagine my surprise when I arrive from Geneva airport on a Sunday morning to find tens of thousands of visitors sitting on the grassy banks of the Alps cheering on some of the best mountain bikers in the world.

I have inadvertently arrived for the final competition at Crankworx Festival, one of the most famous mountain biking tournaments around. In true #TeamCoco style, I join the crowds and my heart is in my mouth while stunt bikers soar through the air from temporary wooden slopes, loop-the-loop against the backdrop of the lush green Alps and bounce back to earth with complete control.

The bars and restaurants are buzzing with bikers, families and locals, all discussing the competition, the shockingly good weather and the latest World Cup win. I quickly realise that the summer season here is every bit as lively as the ski season. And, with mountain biking and other adventurous pursuits on the agenda, I am in for an interesting few days.

But before I hit the summer slopes myself, it is time for some pampering. I check in to the brand new Annapurna residence, perfectly located in the centre of Les Gets, just behind the high street. It comprises a series of apartments with luxurious shared facilities such as a swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna and steam room and a gourmet restaurant and wine bar on the ground floor.

My apartment is excessively spacious, with three bedrooms, three bathrooms and a large kitchen cum living room, ideal for groups of friends looking for a luxurious base after a day outdoors. The design is alpine chic with chocolate-brown fur throws, pale wooden beams and exposed brick feature walls. I spend the first evening taking it all in, lounging with a glass of champers in front of the huge widescreen TV.

A relaxing evening was certainly necessary before my first morning of mountain biking down the terrifyingly steep slopes of the Alps. I have never tried mountain biking before and I think it is fair to say that it does not come naturally! You take a chair lift to the top of the mountain and, just like skiing, there are ‘green’, ‘red’ and ‘black’ runs for mountain bikers to take back down to the village, so these are verging-on-vertical drops. For all of the #TeamCoco adrenaline junkies out there, this is for you. It certainly gave me new-found respect for the Crankworx professional bikers, as we tried a few ‘bumps’ ourselves. I get through it with my nerves just about in tact.

The afternoon is more my style as we explore a newly-opened cheese farm and a local brewery. At the farm, the friendly French lady and her five daughters know every Alpine goat by name and sell their goats’ cheese at the local market. And the views from the farmhouse are stunning, with lush green meadows and wildflowers everywhere. The brewery, on the other hand, is located in the Irish Pub, and I am at first dubious as to what we are doing there. But after sampling some of the best craft beer I have ever tasted, I understand why this is the bar that everyone flocks to, to enjoy the evening sun after a day jam-packed with adventure.

As well as cheese and beer, I have to mention the fantastic food options at the Annapurna restaurant, Vina Annapurna, as well as the Wild Beets Kitchen and La R’Mize. I expected the food to be heavy on the cheese and meat, the usual apres-ski fare. And although you can enjoy those classic snow-weather meals if you so wish, I enjoy mountain-vegetable risottos, red fruit sorbets and enormous buddha bowls. I finish almost every meal with a local génépi or citrus cointreau.

Day Two and I brace myself for another adrenaline-fuelled start with a mountain climbing excursion, led by a man who was the youngest qualified mountain guide in France, and who is now in his 60s and can clamber up the side of a mountain in a matter of minutes. Thankfully I feel more at home inching my way up a rocky cliff-face than bumping down a slope on a bike, and it is exhilarating to abseil down while appreciating the breathtaking views. It makes me realise that this is what a summer Alps trip is all about – getting out of your comfort zone, trying all sorts of new things and discovering what you enjoy.

Another highlight of my stay is a yoga walk led by a local instructor. The walk leads past fields of grazing sheep and through the dappled light of forests. We pause every few hundred metres to practice tree pose and mountain pose facing the imposing snow-peaked Mont Blanc. It is a delightful way to stretch out after a morning of scrambling over rocks, with the sound of cowbells in the distance and the fresh Alpine breeze on my face.

From watching mountain bikers soar through the air to witnessing the production of home-made goats’ cheese, from sipping on Kir on the mountainside to relaxing in the Annapurna jacuzzi, this trip to Les Gets in summer truly defies every expectation I had. And I wish I can stay a few more days to try the seemingly endless list of outdoor activities here, from rafting and trail running to hiking and swimming in the lake.

And the glory of it all is that you can have a completely different adventure each morning and evening, and head to your luxurious apartment to recuperate every night. If, like us here at #TeamCoco, you are always up for trying something new, be one of the first to stay at the luxurious Annapurna and get out of your comfort zone in the Alpine Resort of Les Gets.

From: 2 bedroom apartment with further cabin, sleeps 6 people, from €215 per night on a self-catering basis including access to the spa and swimming pool.

To: 5 bedroom penthouse apartment, sleeps 12 people, from €430 per night on a self-catering basis including access to the spa and swimming pool.

alpine-residences.fr

Greece November 9, 2023

Manahatta: The beat of NY in the heart of Headingley

It’s no secret that we love Arc Inspirations here at House of Coco, they’re the Daddy behind some of our favourite bars across the country, particularly Banyan North Leeds where you can see #TeamCoco once too often! So, when we hear that they’re adding a new addition to their family, or reworking one of their existing bars, it gets our attention.

Start spreading the news… Headingley is set to receive a slice of New York glamour this August when a new kid arrives in town. Decadent bar brand, Manahatta, has invested a cool £500k in transforming the former Arc site into a stunning new venue that is set to breathe new life into the beating heart of Leeds’ student capital.

Guests can expect innovative cocktail creations, all-day US themed dining, 14 HD sports screens, shuffleboards, and Headingley’s first bottomless brunch offering. Weekends will see the venue dial things up with the arrival of DJ’s, sax players, percussionists and other entertainers against an eclectic backdrop of club cuts, classic pop and current chart bangers.

The bar is the third Manahatta venue to open in Leeds, and experts predict it will repeat the huge success seen at both the Merrion Street and Greek Street venues. The striking renovation will include a beautiful backlit loft-style cocktail bar upstairs, feature lighting and sumptuous leather booths in the brands signature peacock blue.

Downstairs is a more informal affair, with sofas, tables and WIFI making it the perfect destination for causal business meetings, whilst a shuffleboard area will keep gamers entertained. The bottom floor will also be home to a second bar and a stage for live entertainment.

Insta-worthy cocktail creations
The cocktail list has been carefully curated by bar development manager and liquor aficionado, Mark Austin, alongside the award-winning team responsible for the Savoy Hotel’s celebrated American Bar. Featuring a mix of bestsellers from the city, including the Cucumber Cooler, Geisha Girl and Manahatta Spritz, you’ll find a range of Insta-worthy drinks designed especially for Headingley.

Those looking for something a little darker can just ask; the bar will be stocked with a variety of rums, bourbon whiskies, as well as gin, vodka and other premium pours from around the globe. There will also be a variety of sharing cocktails and Prosecco magnums on-hand for those looking to celebrate.

Taking inspiration from the eclectic New York food scene, a mouth-watering range of menus will delight diners from late morning, through to noon and night. Expect comforting Neapolitan Pizzas, hand-crafted using Manahatta’s special double fermented dough, which creates a lighter, softer crust that’s easier to digest but harder to leave behind on your plate!

Those seeking something lighter will find the range of Healthy Earth bowls packed with delicious yet balanced ingredients hard to resist, whilst the indulgent Superfood Burger is designed for those guilt-free cheat days. Elsewhere on the menu, you’ll find the finger-lickin’ crispy Manahatta Chicken served with house slaw, chipotle BBQ sauce and skin on fries, and the ever-popular Katsu Chicken Curry.

Rich red velvet

Anyone suffering withdrawal symptoms from The Arc’s legendary loaded fries will be pleased to learn this shamelessly calorific dish will be back, albeit with a fresh Manahatta twist; Steak Frites, which proved to be a bestseller throughout the World Cup, are set to become a permanent fixture on the new menu. Dessert porn comes in the shape of Manahatta’s Trio of Brownies, which includes Pistachio, Chocolate Orange and Salted Caramel, as well as the rich Red Velvet Doughnut.

Bottomless Brunch will be available between 11am-3pm every Saturday and Sunday, with an incredible selection of dishes available alongside free-flowing Prosecco, Bloody Mary’s, selected cocktails, and Coors, making it the premier choice in Headingley for hens and causal get-togethers.

Throughout the week, a brunch menu consisting of hearty NY breakfasts and the new Breakfast Powerbowls will be on offer to get you through the day, and available until 4pm.

14 HD screens across both floors will ensure sports fans won’t miss a second of the football, rugby or cricket, making Manahatta the perfect pre and post-game joint for Leeds Rhinos and Yorkshire cricket fans. The tap room will also house two 18-foot maple wood European shuffleboard tables, perfect for tournaments and private party packages.

The Arc’s dedicated team will be back to make sure Manahatta runs like clockwork, and will be adding their team to make a total of 55 front house staff. There is a great deal of sentiment towards the bar itself, as it was the very first Arc Inspirations venue, opening way back in 1999.

Since then, the group has gone on to build a mini-empire consisting of 18 bars in the north of England, under four unique brands; Banyan Bar & Kitchen, Manahatta, The Pit and The Box.

City breaks November 9, 2023

#CocoCityBreak : 10 Things We Love About Spring in Dublin

Yep, we’re part of the problem. We love jetting far away for an escape but really, this isn’t always feasible (have you seen my bank account at the end of the month?!) or the best thing to do if you are on the edge of burning out and don’t want to catch everyone’s germs on a long haul flight.

So, hooray, we’re upping our local city break content starting with the 10 things we love about springtime in Dublin. Anything we’ve missed? Let us know in the comments!

The Pubs

There’s nothing like an authentic Irish pub – and even the less authentic ones are still a hoot. The atmosphere is cosy, there will likely be a fire on on a chilly day and a sing-a-long in the corner. The perfect place to hide during those spring showers.

2. Getting Lost

While Temple Bar might feel like your average tourist trap, don’t be fooled. There are chinks of vibrant real city life here… when you get away from the massive Urban Outfitters, that is. Don’t miss Love Lane’s colourful murals and installations.

3. The calm beauty of Trinity College

In the heart of Dublin you’ll find the green oasis around Trinity College. Take a walk with a coffee or pop in for a tour of the College and the stunning Old Library and Book of Kells.

4. Off the beaten track gems

A short trip out of Dublin City, I dare you to not fall in love with the seaside village of Dalkey. Keep your eyes peeled for resident and visiting celebs who are known to pop by the local Finnegan’s to soak up the magic.

5. All the food

You won’t go hungry in Dublin with the city’s plentiful food markets and pubs serving up great grub. We stumbled across a few specific spots while in town like Brother Hubbard (2 locations in the city brotherhubbard.ie), the Avoca cafes (avoca.com) and 777 which might just be the best Mexican restaurant we’ve been to in Europe (777.ie), hidden in plain sight in the centre of town. If you are in town on a Sunday book a table here for tacos and margaritas – all dishes are only 7,77e!

6. Exploring on foot / by bike

You can’t fail to love a city that can be explored by foot. We pounded the pavements, getting lost down cobbled streets and even crossed a live band parading around town in the Spring showers. Of course, if you get tired (for that read, hungover!) , grab a pass for the DoDublin buses who will take you where you need to go.

7. The view from The Gravity Bar at The Guinness Storehouse

Sure, you may dismiss it as just a tourist trap but The Guinness Storehouse is a must do when in town. The experience itself is indepth and educational but the fun really starts as you learn how to pour your own perfect pint of Guinness. Don’t neck your pint in the bar downstairs but head up to the Gravity Bar for 360 views of the city. The Gravity Bar also hosts special events like the dinner pictured here – head to the Guinness Storehouse site for more info.

8. Whiskey A Go-Go

Once you’ve had enough of the black stuff, it’s time to move onto the hard stuff; whiskey. Of course, Dublin is home to the famous Jameson Distillery with their impressive multimedia tour and ‘theme park of whiskey’ bar area but, for us, Teeling Whiskey Distillery is the one.

The first distillery established in Dublin for 125 years, located in the historic Liberties area of town, the tour is insightful and real and the tasting room beautiful and airy. A spot to while away a few hours over an Irish coffee or skilfully made Old Fashioned.

9. Bedding down in the centre of the city at Fitzwilliam Hotel

The Fitzwilliam hotel was an unexpected delight situated on St Stephen’s Green. A little unprepossessing from the outside, the hotel rooms abound with quirky little touches like Irish Seaweed cookies on arrive and a lime green, free standing bath tub. The staff are incredibly welcoming and knowledgeable (big shout out to Maciej, the guy running breakfast service, who looked super perky at any time of the day and the bar manager who expertly guided me through their selection of Irish gins to find the most unusual one that I just HAD to try). The hotel is also home to the acclaimed restaurant Glovers Alley by Andy McFadden, voted Ireland’s Best Chef in 2018.

10. Hanging out with Dubliners

Whether you have friends who live in town or fancy getting chatty with some local Dubliners, take their advice, follow their recommendations and prepare yourself for a seriously fun night out. One evening in the Smithfield area we started at 80s themed bar Thundercut Alley (@thundercutalley), then some rum and cokes at sticky, but delightful, dive bar Dice Bar (@dicebardublin) before dinner and retro gaming at over 18+ arcade alley TOKEN (@tokendublin). We then made tracks for the local secret The Hacienda Bar where a mediterrean restaurant facade hides a packed late night drinking den of pool tables, accessed only by ringing the bell and being greeted by the owner.

Arts November 9, 2023

Top five art exhibitions in London

Here at #TeamCoco, we are always on the hunt for the best art exhibitions in the UK’s capital. This spring, there are almost too many to choose from but we’ve rounded up the five that you can’t miss. Check them out!

Tate Britain presents a comprehensive retrospective of the legendary British photographer Don McCullin

This poignant exhibition showcases some of the most impactful photographs captured over the last 60 years. It includes many of his iconic war photographs – including images from Vietnam, Northern Ireland and more recently Syria. It also however focuses on the work he did at home in England, recording scenes of poverty and working class life in London’s East End and the industrial north, as well as meditative landscapes of his beloved Somerset, where he lives. Sir Don McCullin was born in 1935 and grew up in a deprived area of north London. He got his first break when a newspaper published his photograph of friends who were in a local gang. From the 1960s he forged a career as probably the UK’s foremost war photographer, primarily working for the Sunday Times Magazine. His unforgettable and sometimes harrowing images are accompanied in the show with his brutally honest commentaries.

With over 250 photographs, all printed by McCullin himself in his own darkroom, this exhibition will be a unique opportunity to appreciate the scope and achievements of his entire career.

5 February – 6 May 2019

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

White Cube Bermondsey presents ‘A Fortnight of Tears’ by Tracey Emin.

Installed throughout the gallery’s spaces, this major exhibition includes sculpture, neon, painting, film, photography and drawing, all focusing on the artist’s own memories and emotions arising from loss, pathos, anger and love. On entering South Gallery I, the viewer is confronted by fifty double-hung self-portraits from an on-going series taken at different moments and states during the artist’s periods of insomnia. These unsettling and intimate close-ups, blown up in size and overwhelming in number, capture the habitual torment and desperation of these lonely wakeful hours.

6 February 2019 – 7 April 2019

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bt0bOn3gxAv/

Tate Modern presents The CC Land exhibition – Pierre Bonnard and the Colour of Memory

This is the first major exhibition of Pierre Bonnard’s work in the UK since the much-loved show at Tate 20 years ago. It will allow new generations to discover Bonnard’s unconventional use of colour, while surprising those who think they already know him.

Born 1867, Bonnard was, with Henri Matisse, one of the greatest colourists of the early 20th century. He preferred to work from memory, imaginatively capturing the spirit of a moment and expressing it through his unique handling of colour and innovative sense of composition.

The exhibition concentrates on Bonnard’s work from 1912, when colour became a dominant concern, until his death in 1947. It presents landscapes and intimate domestic scenes which capture moments in time – where someone has just left the room, a meal has just finished, a moment lost in the view from the window, or a stolen look at a partner.

Now until 6 May 2019

https://www.instagram.com/p/BtmN9FbFUsW/

The Serpentine presents Grace Wales Bonner: A Time for New Dreams

The exhibition features an assemblage of site-specific installations and shrines. Interested in the improvisations and uses of shrines throughout black histories, Wales Bonner views these spiritual structures as material portals into multiple frames of experience. Drawing upon the images and rhythms of rituals and ceremonies from all over the world, she moves across time and space by bringing these references into dialogue with one another.

This exhibition focuses on Wales Bonner’s rigorous research into multiple geographies and temporalities, culminating in the presentation of her forthcoming Autumn/Winter 2019 collection, Mumbo Jumbo. Conjuring and exploring various characters, their dress, and the worlds and spaces they inhabit, the collection features certain protagonists, such as the artist-shaman, a West African spiritual healer, and a gathering of Howard University intellectuals. At its close, the exhibition becomes an environment for the characters to inhabit.

A live programme includes composer, playwright and artist Klein, who performed a reading in the Gallery, Poet and DJ James Massiah who will present an evening of readings inside the exhibition, and performance artist Michael-John Harper, whose ritual of movements will activate the Gallery at intervals during the final days of the exhibition. New texts and invocations by Ben Okri are woven through the Gallery spaces.

Now until 17 March 2019

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bt1JcjAAzKb/

The Barbican presents Daria Martin – Tonight the World

Artist and Jarman Award 2018 winner Daria Martin revisits dreams and memories from her personal family history to create a complex portrait of migration, loss and resilience.

Drawing upon dream diaries kept by her grandmother over a 35 year period, London-based artist Daria Martin creates a new installation for The Curve. Through atmospheric film and gaming technology Martin stages a series of intimate encounters, enveloping viewers in an exploration of the curious and traumatic history of her grandmother, who fled the imminent Nazi occupation of her country, Czechoslovakia.

Now until 7 April 2019 (free entry)

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

Cover picture © Pierre Bonard – Tate Modern

Argentina November 9, 2023

The Most Underrated Cities in the World

The world has so many beautiful cities with breath-taking sceneries, activities to do, and places to visit. Many of these towns are very famous, and it’s a dream of every intrepid traveller to visit them. Such cities include London, New York, Moscow, Tokyo, Dubai, and even Singapore. However, there are several cities that are so underrated but have very captivating sceneries. Cities like Budapest, Bled, and Moscow are considered to be off the beaten path, but they are the cities that will give you the best experience in the world. So, go ahead, book that Jettly flight, and get exploring them! Listed below are the most underrated yet very scenic cities around the world.

Auckland, New Zealand

It’s among the major cities in New Zealand. The city is a Metropolitan center on the North Island that boasts of two harbors, magnificent and natural landscapes, and volcanoes. It has an intriguing mix of the traditional Maori and little touch of western culture. There are very many activities to do in Auckland. These include visiting the Skytower, the Auckland Domain, the zoo, the aquarium, the war memorial museum, and the Tiritiri Matangi Island.

Banff, Canada

This is one of the cities I must go back to. The city is filled with very many fascinating places and sceneries to visit, for example, the Banff National Park, the magnificent mountains and lakes. Apart from the wildlife and scenic views, Banff has very great restaurants with delicious meals, delightful boutiques, and shops. One can also visit the Fairmont Banff Springs, the bow falls, the cave and basin National Historic site, the tunnel mountains, the Upper Hot Springs, and many more lovely sites.

El Nido, Philippines

With a very gorgeous and clean beach, this resort town on the Filipino island of Palawan is truly an off-the-beaten-path town. The city is known for its beaches with white sands and coral reefs and amazingly clear waters from the lagoons. Near the town is an island known as Shimizu that has water filled with all kinds of fish. The areas also have very many diving sites, such as the Dilumacad island tunnel that leads to a cavern under the water.

Mendoza, Argentina

Mendoza is the largest wine region in Argentina. During my visit, I was excited to visit one of the bodegas for a wine tasting and a tour around the wineries. Apart from that, the city streets are evergreen and leafy, and the buildings full of modern art decor on buildings across the city. I also got a chance to visit the Museo Municipal de Arte Mordeno, a city that displays modern and contemporary art.

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is the capital city of Hungary that is divided into Buda and Pest by the Danube River. The city is also referred to as ‘the Paris of the East’ because of its magnificent architecture that makes Budapest look and feel awesomely unique. Several places that make Budapest a great destination include the Danube River, the ruin bars, thermal bath, historic churches, and the castle hill. Their traditional Hungarian cuisines are to die for.

Safed, Israel

Also known as Tzfat, this is a city in Northern District, Israel. Tzfat is said to be the birthplace of Kabbalah. It was also regarded as a Holy city shortly after the Jews were expelled from Spain in the early 1940s. It is also the highest city that is elevated over 900 meters high in Galilee. The city has the top most attraction centers frequently visited, including the Bat Ya’ar ranch. Soul and Art fine art gallery, Abuhav synagogue, The Ashkenazi Ha’Ari synagogue, and the Old City of Safed.

Galway, Ireland

Galway is known for its wild ‘stag and hen’ parties. The Irelanders are known to throw the wildest bachelor and bachelorette parties before getting hitched. The city is also known for its Irish character and spirit, starting with the pubs, their Irish folk music, and delicious cuisines. On the last trip I took to Galway, I was privileged enough to visit the breath-taking cliffs of Moher. I also visited very scenic and educational places, including the Spanish Arch, the Galway cathedral, the museum Lynch’s castles, the Atlantaquaria National aquarium, and a ride on the Aran Islands ferries, and even shopping on the streets.

Republic of Ireland November 9, 2023

3 Reasons to Visit Ireland This Summer

Visit Ireland, there’s no doubt it is a stunner tourist destination throughout the year, but it absolutely shines with events and festivals galore during the summer months. Being a home to natural wonders, historic lands, a dynamic cultural scene, sporting opportunities, and numerous dazzling sites, Ireland has something for everyone. If you need to enjoy a soothing summer holiday this year, Ireland can never disappoint. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore.

From an international dark sky reserve to UNESCO World Heritage Sites and whiskey distilleries, Ireland has something that would keep you amused throughout the summer. If Ireland isn’t one of your must-visit destinations this summer, then you need to reconsider and start planning your trip to Ireland as soon as possible. Below are 3 reasons you should visit Ireland this summer.

The Blue Flag Beaches

Ireland literally has hundreds of beaches on offer, and is one of the world’s leading destinations for surfing, swimming, and sandcastle-building. Unfortunately, most tourists don’t immediately consider Ireland as a surfer’s paradise, which is a big mistake. Ireland remains a go-to destination for anyone looking for a white sandy setting, dog-friendly stretches, and rocky seaside surroundings with tranquil waters.

About 88 Irish beaches were awarded the coveted Blue Flag status in June 2017 having been declared superior for swimming. Visitors have unlimited fun waves to explore, including the Greencastle Marina in Donegal and Portumna in Galway. Bundoran, Co. Donegal is ideal for those interested in surfing, while Dingle, Co. Kerry is great for those who fancy marine life.

10:00 PM Sunsets

Perhaps one of the supreme gifts Ireland has to offer to the summertime travelers is 10:00 pm sunsets. These are luxurious and prolonged daylight hours, which often extend to 10:00 pm in the summer months of June and July. Long daylight hours give you a rare opportunity to indulge in numerous activities and take things at a laid-back pace – absolutely no hurry!

Furthermore, the views become illusory when the sun sets. Some of Ireland’s famous points where you can view the sunset include the Cliffs of Moher, the Salthill promenade in Galway, Howth, and Dun Laoighre piers in Dublin, and the Dunluce Castel grounds in Antrim. Ireland’s numerous beaches also provide a splendid view of the luxurious sunsets. Ireland’s numerous beaches also provide a splendid view of the luxurious sunsets. Some of Ireland’s famous sunset spots include the Cliffs of Moher, the Salthill Quay in Galway, the Hout and Dun Laoighre piers, which are popular attractions in Dublin, and the Dunluce Castle grounds in Antrim. Ireland’s many beaches also offer magnificent sunsets.

To understand travel insurance for your trip to Ireland, check out these valuable insights.

A Kaleidoscope of Arts Festivals

Visiting Ireland in summer is a brilliant opportunity to experience the beauty of Ireland’s summer festivals. These are no ordinary festivals like those experienced in other months. Many of these festivals exceed music sessions and concerts and incorporate the more significant arts scene, such as visual art, theater, cinema, and music.

The most popular of them all is the Galway International Arts Festival that occurs in the striking Galway city between 17th July and 30th July each year. Another one is the bilingual English and Irish Earagail Arts Festival, which takes place between the 4th of July and 23rd of July in County Donegal along the Wild Atlantic Way. Other important festivals include the Dublin Fringe Festival happening in September and the Kilkenny Arts Festival occurring in August.

If you plan on visit Ireland this summer, then the Dublin Tour Company has got you covered. We offer easy and fun vacation planning without the added stress or hassle. Get in touch with us so we can start planning a memorable travel experience for you. You can become a lord or lady of Ardmore by purchasing a plot of land on Celtic Tiles Nature Reserve today, read on to know more.

Australia November 9, 2023

#GirlBossesofGreatBritain : Changing career paths & falling in love with whisky with Alwynne Gwilt, Brand Ambassador for Balvenie

One of the greatest joys that #TeamCoco get out of interviewing great business women is the motivation that you don’t have to have it all planned out and that following your interests and getting your hustle on can get you to amazing – and unexpected – places.

Today’s interviewee Alwynne Gwilt started out listening in to police scanners for scoops at a national newspaper in Toronto and is currently a brand ambassador for Balvenie whisky based in London. Along the way she shifted her aversion to whisky from the spirit that gave her terrible hangovers from drinking on the beach at uni (!) to a love of the beautiful, nuanced and exciting spirit she knows it is today….

HOC: Hey Alwynne! We especially love speaking with businesswomen with interesting and varied backgrounds and yours certainly is – what brought you to the UK from Canada?

Alwynne: So my background is very different to what I do today… I started working in broadcast journalism in my home country of Canada when I was 16 and then went off to study broadcast journalist. I had the full intention to sticking around the journalism industry for the rest of my career and started working for national newspapers in Toronto and then moved to the UK in 2007 with the intention of staying for just a year. I’d moved over on a freelance contract and, at that time, being paid in Canadian dollars but living in London wasn’t the smartest way to do business!

I promptly got a job in financial journalism which is not my background at all. I ended up at an Insurance Magazine just before the crash and it was crazy and lavish – it was like ‘let’s go to Paris for lunch!’ very strange and such a different journalism world to Canada where that’s DEFINITELY not allowed…

HOC: Sounds pretty crazy! And where does the whisky come in?

Alwynne: Long story short, in this insurance company, I ended up going along to a whisky tasting in Soho as so many people in the financial world drink whisky. I was very anti-whisky and thought it was this horrible, disgusting liquid and I really didn’t want anything to do with it.

At this event I was totally blown away! It’s so great to look back and remember that moment when I was really taken aback – it doesn’t happen that often in life! I left the tasting and decided I wanted to get a bottle and it kind of went from there with friends buying me interesting whiskies for my birthday, I really got into it.

A couple of years later, I decided I’d had it with the investment world and decided to go freelance. I remember going to a food blogging workshop, and this was back in 2011 when nobody really had a clue what a blog was. I didn’t want to become a blogger – I was a journalist! – but when I got chatting to a food editor at The Guardian he recommended that that I needed to start a blog, so that I could start pitching articles about whisky. So I started a test blog called ‘Gwilty Pleasures’ – a riff on my surname – all about food, drink and travel just to try it out. I took a break from work and headed to Costa Rica for a few months and while I was there I formalised this idea I’d had in my head to blog specifically about whisky. When I came back, I started Miss Whisky (MissWhisky.com) and that’s really where it all kicked off!

HOC: Is the whisky industry the boys club I’d imagine that it is?

Alwynne: Not really! When I started my blog there weren’t any females writing specifically about whisky in the UK market but there have always been females involved in the creation of whisky. Industry people always ask me if it was intimidating getting involved as a younger female and do you know what, I always found the industry so welcoming. The only reason I ended up learning so much, so quickly was because I’d meet people at a show and when I followed up with them they said ‘yeh, sure why don’t you come and visit?’ . I never felt that I wasn’t part of the club and no-one wanted to talk to me. I think, from my journalism work, I have a brain that’s interested in so many things and I love to ask questions, I think that was appreciated!

HOC: Before we go any further – I have to admit – while I enjoy a whisky cocktail from time to time – I have no idea what is the difference between a whiskey with an ‘e’ – and one without!

Alwynne: I help you with that! With an E is generally Irish and American and pretty much everybody else doesn’t use an E and there’s various debates about why that came about. One story is that, back when Dublin used to produce more whisky than Scotland, they decided to put their stamp on the spirit and add an E – clearly marking which whiskey was the spirit of Dublin.

HOC: Ah that wasn’t as complicated as I thought! What’s happening in the whisky / whiskey industry at the moment and what should we look out for?

Alwynne: We’re seeing a proliferation of start ups, like we’ve seen in gin. Now when you go to a bar you see the gin list and have no idea where to begin – I don’t even bother trying to keep up with it! But the reality is that whisky takes a lot longer than gin so it’ll take a few years for things to really change.

There’s more and more whisky companies coming through which is interesting and we’re seeing lots more family owned businesses. There’s also some great things happening in world whiskies. Like a few years ago when people got really excited about Japanese whiskies, there are loads of places to look out for. Tasmania and Tawain and India and Africa…. it could easily get a bit overwhelming!

HOC: What a dream – combining travel and interesting whiskies! Where’s the most amazing place you’ve visited in the search for great whisky?

Alwynne: It’s funny but one of the first distilleries I visited was Balvenie in Speyside when the then brand ambassador brought some bloggers to see it! It was such a memorable visit, in the heartland of the Scottish whisky industry – there’s around 50 distilleries in that area. I really fell in love with Scotland through my blog when I’d pootle around the west coast to visit distilleries. I never got to drink anything on site though, as I was driving but I’d be taking my little bottles to get samples to drink in my hotel! Scotland reminds me of Canada, it’s very open and people are super friendly – really welcoming and the landscape is incredible.

The Mackmyra distillery in Sweden is so fascinating. It’s in the woods and is gravity fed which means that no energy is used. The whisky is matured in war time bunkers underground! You drive into the distillery and there’s all these signs almost warning you about a nuclear disaster. It a former bomb creating space and now they use it to store their whisky?! They’ve also got a female master distiller – Angela D’Orazio. They are really cool.

I’m dying to go to Tasmania, there are 8 distilleries there which you wouldn’t expect and it’s like a mini Scotland in the way the land sits – lots of mountains and water… There are so many beautiful stories. For the people who work at these places, this is their way of life and they don’t always realise the impact that their work has down the line, often on a far flung country. It’s fascinating when you think about all this spirit that has been maturing in warehouses goes all around the world and all the time and history and knowledge that goes into it. It’s really quite beautiful.

HOC: I always remember that Parks & Recreation episode where Ron gets to visit the remote Lagavulin distillery on the isle of Islay and gets super emotional…

Alwynne: YES! I was so excited when I saw that episode. I’m a big fan, I bought my other half a t-shirt that said ‘This is LITERALLY the best t-shirt’! Haha!

HOC: If someone fancied themselves a Ron Swanson (!) and wanted to try getting into whisky, what advice would you have for them? I’ve found it’s too often passed off as a ‘man’s drink’, whatever that means and it can seem intimidating for women?

Alwynne: So strange, I mean why is a certain flavour thought of as ‘manly’, whatever that means?! In fact, flavours are the key to finding a whisky you like. I got two of my best friends into whisky and I had it in my head that they’d only like the lighter ones as they’d never really tried whisky before. But, after some experimenting, it was the peaty, punchy ones they loved. They’d always prefer savoury food over sweet and loved smokey flavours – why wouldn’t that be the drinks they’d prefer as well? There’s so many ways to enjoy whisky – some great cocktails out there and some great options to try at home, which is becoming more popular.

HOC: Whisky can be seen as an expensive thing to get into, do you have any tips for House of Coco readers?

Alwynne: That can be true but there’s a lot of time and work that goes into whisky as opposed to other spirits and you’re not likely to get through a bottle too quickly! Generally, independent bottlers like That Boutique-y Whisky Company will be great value and really high quality – they release great bottles with really funky cartoony artwork. In all, there’s a growing trend to drink less but drink better and people are spending a bit more on spirits.

It’s always worth keeping an eye out at Christmas on places like Aldi! Every year, they bring out old whiskies insanely cheaply. Last year, for the first time, they’d bottled an old Irish whisky… I’m usually so late to the party on new releases but, for the first time ever, I read the article on the day this whisky became available. I discovered it was available online so snapped up two bottles I was dubious as it was so reasonable priced and it was so good. Two days later I came back home, after few cocktails, and bought two more bottles online before it sold out!

HOC: It must be so strange for you, looking back on your career and where you’ve got to…?

Alwynne: Definitely! I mean, I’ve now been a full-time employee of Balvenie for a year and a half and before that spent time working across the William Grant brands. I still have my blog, Miss Whisky, which is so important to me as it’s my roots!

It’s been a very different career path than I expected. My dad has been very happy, he’s got a lot of whisky over the years! One of the best things was when I did the opening tasting at the Victoria Whisky Festival in Canadawhich is right by where my Dad lives so he got to come along. It was one of those moments of thinking – ‘this is the most random thing!’ When I left home at 17 for journalism school, this is not where I thought I was going but it was so nice to almost bring it home….see, it all makes sense now! I totally knew what I was doing the whole time!

With that inspirational thought, we went off on a tangent about in-the-know bars in Seoul in South Korea and how Netflix could commission a series like ‘Nailed It’ based on making cocktails. But it would likely be a bit too messy!

To find out more about Alwynne’s work head to her blog MissWhisky.com

Lifestyle November 9, 2023

5 Reasons to Love Bingo Fun Social And Thrilling Community

In the 1960s, Reasons to Love Bingo: bingo was one of the most popular recreational activities in Britain and Ireland, with over 16 million registered players. At one point, the classic game was more popular than rugby, tennis, and cricket until the crash hit…

As the year 2000 crept into sight bingo was a game on the wane, quickly dropping out of the public consciousness and looking destined for the scrap heap. Participation numbers dropped to their lowest figures on record and bingo halls began to close on a weekly basis.

In the past decade, however, the game received a shot in the arm from online gambling and is now gaining in popularity at a phenomenal rate. Latest industry statistics show 3.5 million people regularly play bingo at least once a week, so what makes it so popular and why should you be playing bingo? Read on to find out.

That Winning Feeling

What is the one driving factor behind playing bingo, sports or any form of gambling? Winning. That’s the reason that we all take part in competition, What is the one driving factor behind playing bingo, sports or any form of gambling? Winning. That’s the reason that we all take part in the competition because we love the thrill and positive emotion that comes with a cathartic win. If you’re looking for a reputable bingo site to try, be sure to check out Bingo Fly.

Bingo is a game that levels the playing field and gives everyone a unique opportunity to win and experience the highs that come with victory. When you win at anything your brain releases a chemical called dopamine which induces feelings of euphoria and contentment.

It’s the basic reward system of the brain that encourages us to take positive actions and enjoy recreational activities. Playing bingo can be a great way to stimulate this reward system, but it can be tough to win all of the time.

That’s why you might want to sign up to Bingoport and join their customer loyalty programme. The website groups together all the latest offers for online bingo sites, making sure you won’t miss out on short-term promotions.

On top of that, you will be awarded loyalty points every time you take advantage of an offer, which you can spend in Bingoport’s reward store. With your loyalty points you can buy shopping vouchers, home and garden items and even some of the latest tech on the market.

It’s a great way to stimulate that winning feeling even if you’re going through a particularly lean period whilst playing actual bingo.

Socialisation

Loneliness has finally been recognised by governments and health institutions as an epidemic that is affecting the lives of millions of people around the globe. Loneliness isn’t just something that afflicts the elderly, it can strike at any age and have a significant impact on the sufferer’s life.

Depression and anxiety are two of the biggest issues associated with loneliness, but it can also take a toll on your physical, as well as your mental health. Medical professionals and scientists have likened loneliness to smoking, hypothesising that it can have the same impact on your body as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.

Bingo halls are great places to socialise and meet people from your local community. For decades they have been the social centre of small towns and villages, drawing in large crowds of regulars.

If you’re new to an area or struggling to make friends, you could easily make friends and feel part of your community by heading down to the bingo hall. Even online bingo sites now have excellent chat facilities, making it easier to make friends and avert the spectre of loneliness.

It’s Fun

The fundamental benefit of playing bingo is that it’s fun and relaxing. Unlike other gambling activities like poker and blackjack, there is no exclusivity to playing bingo. If you’ve never played before you won’t be lost on your first visit to the bingo, you’ll be able to get to grips with the game in minutes.

There are no confusing rules or playing requirements that act as barriers to enjoyment, it’s just an accessible, fun game. Most bingo halls up and down the country have a party atmosphere that shifts the focus from playing to just having a good time.

Regular games are often punctuated by live music or comedy acts that will help to reduce your stress levels and put a smile on your face.

Relaxation

Life is stressful, and at times things get on top of you and beat you down. If you feel like things are getting too much or just need to unwind then bingo could be just what you need. When your stress levels are high it’s tempting to focus on your problems and over-analyse everything.

In reality what you need at times like this is an escape, a quick break from the rigours of everyday life. Bingo provides you with just that, it’s a game and an activity that will help take your mind off things even if it’s only for a few hours.

The remedy to de-stressing is to live in the present and focus on the task at hand, giving you a much-needed escape from your thoughts. Bingo will take your full attention for an hour or two and give your overworked mind a brief bit of respite.

Brain Training

Scientists have recently made the startling discovery that brain capability starts to sharply decline in middle age. At 45 the average adult starts to mentally slow down with memory and mental agility being the first things to go.

Thankfully there are a number of activities that have been designed specifically to boost your mental sharpness and agility such as Sudoku and Lumosity. If these games don’t appeal to you, then you can use bingo as a fun but effective way to maintain your mental faculties.

It may seem like a fairly basic game but bingo will test your memory and your mental agility, so playing will boost your brain power. What’s more, is that it isn’t nearly half as boring as Sudoku or Lumosity!