Saudi Arabia - House Of Coco Magazine

Bahrain November 9, 2023

Where to stay in Qatar during the 2022 FIFA World Cup

It’s a long way off yet, but the rumble of the World Cup is never too far away, and the convoy of FIFA fans expected to descend on the buzzing desert metropolises of Doha is enough to accelerate booking plans far in advance. Where to say then, to enjoy the buzz of the games and easily explore this rich desert city? Split between the old Arabia and the new, the several hotels owned by Tivoli across Doha offer ample accommodation for all tastes and budgets.

Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar

For those hoping to blend FIFA excitement with a slice of holiday relaxation in the city’s 30-degree winter heat, Souq Al Wakra Hotel by Tivoli is located in the up-an-coming seaside district of Al Wakra.

Located 10 minutes from Hamad International Airport and 20 minutes from central Doha, the hotel is far enough to escape the hordes of football fans but close enough to easily jump into the action. A slick renovation of 17th century heritage buildings, the 101 room complex maintains the original architectural features built by local fishermen and pearl divers from way back when.

Terracotta walls, ambient fountains and minimalist interiors ooze a simple beachy vibe. Though rooms are small due to the structure of the old fishing huts that once stood here, the space is used effectively, with larger suites formed from interconnecting rooms. The surrounding area boasts a beachfront promenade peppered with restaurants, leading to the labyrinth of market stalls within the local Souq – perfect for glimpsing the essence of Qatari life outside of the city.

Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels

For guests yearning to be right in the thick of it, Souq Waqif – Doha’s most famous marketplace gives way to a warren of Tivoli’s boutique hotels that in many ways feel more like an opulent Arabic home than a hotel. Personal touches and rich interiors blend with the ever-present aroma of the Arabic coffee and sweet dates presented to every guest to roll off the street, and into any one of the nine hotel lobby’s peppered through the cobbled streets of the Souq.

Facilities are peppered throughout the hotels; the luxurious spa at Al Jasra boasts Doha’s only Moroccan hammam experience, while Al Mirqab is home to the Souq’s only outdoor swimming pool – available to all guests, whichever hotel you’re staying in. Guests can choose from six restaurants, offering a mixture of Indian, Moroccan and Lebanese cuisines amidst rooftop views and opulent dining spaces.

La Piazza at Al Bidda houses the breakfast buffet for all Tivoli hotel guests, where classic continentals and authentic local specialties sit side-by-side, below an azure glass ceiling which glints in the morning sun. Al Shurfa restaurant at Al Jomrok Hotel is the perfect place in old town for a rooftop dining experience. Overlooking Doha’s imposing skyline, the terrace is most beautiful at sunset over platters of hot mezze and Arabic coffee, while its indoor rooftop lounge is a popular shisha haunt for locals and guests alike.

Al Najada

Located in the heart of central Souq Al Najada, the 151 roomed hotel stands as a vast Arabian sanctuary. The lobby boasts high ceilings and immediate indulgence, blending traditional architecture with a contemporary colour palate.

With 3 restaurants, a swimming pool area (and pool bar), fitness centre and an elegant ballroom to boot, Al Najada is particularly popular with European guests for high quality amenities and easy access to the city’s attractions.

Al Baraha Restaurant offers a sprawling daily breakfast buffet, where guests can drink coffee al fresco on the Italian style piazza. Missan is the hotel’s newest addition – a mesmerizing dessert-only restaurant featuring the sweetest gastronomic experiences in the city.

Saudi Arabia November 9, 2023

Winter at Tantora returns to AlUla for Season Two

Following a successful debut in 2018, Winter at Tantora, the cultural festival celebrating incredible art, music, culture and history against the timeless backdrop of AlUla, will return on December 19th with an exciting new line-up of performers, experiences and events. The 12-weekend festival, which will run until March 7th, invites arts and culture aficionados from around the globe to enjoy and experience a unique event that is rooted in AlUla, home to Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site; Hegra.

The event promises a legendary line-up of A list performers from around the world and spanning diverse genres, including Timeless Pop, Opera and Classical Music. Details about the festival, its soon to be announced line-up and exceptional surroundings can be found at www.experiencealula.com with tickets scheduled to go live in early October 2019.

Now in its second year, the Winter at Tantora festival features an array of activities and excursions for fans of music and culture as well as adventure seekers, history lovers and sports enthusiasts. The festival will host the AlUla Balloon Festival, vintage aircraft flights, the second largest endurance horse race in the world, culinary experiences curated by Michelin starred

chefs, traditional souks as well as luxury brand pop-ups. Complementing this will be tours of ancient sites over 2000 years-old that will be brought to life using state-of-art AR technology.

Last year, the inaugural festival greeted over 37,000 visitors from around the world over 10-weeks and hosted household names such as Andrea Bocelli, Yanni, Majida El Roumi and Lang Lang for sell-out performances. Building on this success, organisers, are extending this year’s festival by two weeks and are expecting over 40,000 visitors to experience the rich display of culture and heritage on offer.

Within the Winter at Tantora festival and inspired by AlUla’s tradition of marking the change of seasons, will also be the Tantora Festival which celebrates the start of winter. Promising a feast for the senses, visitors will enjoy the authentic essence of AlUla from the traditional souk, art and performance theatre through to enjoying local delicacies. Nowhere else in world can stargazers take in the constellations like they can in AlUla and see them as past civilisations did, unpolluted by modernity.

Positioned as “A Timeless Celebration in a Timeless Place” the festival has four themes:

Reimagining Heritage
Cultural Oasis
Adventure and Discovery
Secret Escape

Reimagining Heritage offers visitors the opportunity to witness ancient cities brought to life, not as monuments of the past but living communities, showcasing how past civilisations lived in the ancient cities of Hegra and Dadan. Guided by expert storytellers, the Heritage Sites Experience gives guests the chance to be transported to the thriving sites of Hegra and Dadan andwitness history reawakened. Visitors will be invited to use the very latest in tech-innovation such as augmented reality, video projection and imaging technology to recreate an atmospheric and informative experience unlike any other seen in the Kingdom. The festival also brings cultures together through the medium of food – from the hot pot of street food at the Winter Park to the regional delicacies on show at Wadi AlQura market.

Cultural Oasis will bring international stars from around the world to performat the state-of-the-art 500-seat Maraya Concert Hall. Constructed to emulate a mirage emerging from the ancient rocky landscape, the concert hall is wrapped in walls of mirrors that shimmer into the horizon creating a feast for the eyes. Here, guests will enjoy performances by musicians, from the worlds of recording, opera and classic music

Adventure and Discovery brings a dose of adrenalin to the festival. The Vintage Aircraft Experience is a high-flying adventure offering bird’s eye views in vintage aircrafts dating to World War 2. For a serene glide through the skies, the AlUla Hot Air Balloon Festival is calling on guests to be part of a 100-strong flotilla of hot air balloons at sunrise or indulge in a solo flight at sunset. Guests can also watch from the side-lines as over 200 riders from across the globe attempt to navigate the 120km course as part of the Fursan Endurance Race, the second biggest endurance race in the world

Secret Escape provides an exclusive and high-end journey into fine dining with Michelin-starred chefs curating bespoke experiences for the visiting gastronome. Set within a site of immeasurable historic significance, Secret Escape offers the only experience of this kind in the world.

For the discerning traveller the Winter at Tantora Festival offers an unmissable array of culture, activities and experiences in an enthralling setting.

AlUla… A Timeless Celebration in a Timeless Place!

The Winter at Tantora festival will take place from December 19, 2019 – March 7, 2020 in AlUla, but don’t forget your Saudi work visa. For more information, please visit experiencealula.com

Australia November 9, 2023

#CocoTravel : 7 Reasons to Visit Melbourne Now

Melbourne has been voted constantly as one of the greatest and the most liveable city in the world for many years now. What differentiates the city from any other city is its unique culture and buzzing creativity.The steady rise in the number of flights to Melbourne reflects the higher number of tourists and travellers who discover the joys of Melbourne.

Browse Emirates airlines flight booking and make the bookings to the great city and find out for yourself what the fuss is all about and what makes Melbourne so special. Well, you can look forward to an eclectic mix of adventure, dining, shopping, and events. There is something or the other going on in the city and if you are looking for a break, there are many getaways spots for a quiet weekend.

Here are some good reasons why you must visit Melbourne

For the best gourmet food scene – Melbourne boasts of the most varied cuisines and Little Italy and Chinatown are well known for the famous delicatessens. Whether it is fine restaurants, pastries, coffee, artisan gelato, cheese cafés or noodles houses, there is something here to suit everyone’s taste and budget. You will never go hungry as its laneways and arcades are dotted with award-winning restaurants, trendy bars, famous cafes, and some fine chocolate shops.
For the world-class venues and sports – Melbourne is the mecca for sports lovers, and it is because of the best venues for Rugby League, Australian Rules, Cricket and Tennis. Any sports fan would love to visit the AAMI Park, Melbourne Park, Etihad Stadium and Hisense Arena. Passionate sports lovers and loyal fans travel from afar to Melbourne to catch their favourite teams in action all through the year.
For the great wildlife to watch – Phillip Island, Melbourne is loved by the animal and wildlife lovers because of the ample opportunities it offers to enjoy the wildlife. Go to Sutherland Beach to watch the penguins emerge and head home. The penguin parade is a great event and another animal that draws the tourists and locals is the Seal Rocks. October is the best month to spot the fur seals.
For the frenzy of street art – Melbourne’s street art is world famous and one of the most vibrant in the world. Some of the must-see sights are in the Hosier Lane that is filled with sprayed, stencilled alleys. At every corner, you come across a technicolor brilliance. Go for a Melbourne Street Art Tour that is organised by the city’s top street artists to get a wider perspective on creative art and discover some of the hidden laneways of the underground art scene.
For the festivals and events – Melbourne is well known as the cultural capital of Australia as it is brimming with live music venues, art galleries, and great museums. Countless festivals and events are scheduled throughout the year and on every possible field like food, sport, music, art, film and even events for kids. International musicals, comedy festivals, and blockbuster dramas attract thousands of peoples every year.
For a great shopping experience- Melbourne is one of the few cities where you can shop till you drop. There are countless outlets and malls where one can look for designer bargains and great sales. One of the city’s popular tourist attractions is shopping at historic markets in Queen Victoria that are more than 130-year-old.
For an enjoyable public transport system- In Melbourne, one can look forward to a stress-free holiday, because of the efficient public transport system. Take advantage of the traditional trams to move around and visit the hotspots.

Australia November 9, 2023

Women Worldwide : Sustainable Luxury Beauty with Melissa Obeid

LA FERVANCE is an independent Australian-French company who are experts in sustainable luxury beauty. The founder of LA FERVANCE, Melissa Obeid, has directed and overseen every aspect of the product profile, performance, ingredients, packaging and testing.

Melissa’s love affair with France was ignited whist studying at The Paris Fashion Institute in the 90’s. She worked with the biggest names in the fashion world extending these experiences to senior fashion roles back in Australia, followed by a stellar career in high-level arts management. Melissa’s passion for clean beauty lead her to initiate the development and commercialisation of a suite of Australian made, 100% natural beauty products created under proprietary brands sold nationwide. This was an Australian first.

Melissa is a really heavy weight in the beauty world and we spent some time with her to find out more about her plans for the brand, what a day in her life is like and more…

Tell us about the journey that lead you to launching La Fervance…

The LA FERVANCE journey is a truly inspiring one, even to me as the brand founder! It’s one of enormous courage and faith after Jamie and I were inspired to bring our family to France for a sabbatical in 2016 and here we are in 2020 having launched a high-end luxury skincare brand!

Whilst in Senior Management at the world renowned National Gallery of Victoria it is here that I got my inspiration and I discovered the Napoleon directed, Baudin led expedition to Australia (Terre Napoleon). I learned of the fascination which Napoleon and Josephine had with Australia and given my ties with both Australia and France, I found this particularly fascinating.

Then, following the development of natural skincare collections in Australia and my family’s relocation to France for a cultural sabbatical and to better understand the luxury skincare space, I was struck with an inspiration during our initial stay in Paris, to create a skincare brand containing high concentrations of 100% natural, active ingredients from Australia and France within a certified high-end, sustainable framework.

It was upon settling in Provence, that the idea took on a life of its own and very soon we found ourselves aligned with the most reputable laboratories and partners in France – the prestige cosmetics mecca of the world – as we understood that if we wanted the best, it had to be done in France. In many ways, I feel LA FERVANCE continues the journey of fusing these two cultures which are so diverse.

You did a lot of research before launching the brand and perfection was the only way for you. Why was this important?

I’m a firm believer in that if one is to do something, ‘either they do it well or not at all’. One of the motivations for creating LA FERVANCE was to fill a void in the high-end skincare space through the provision of true authenticity around the provenance of active ingredients from 100% natural origins and offering a brand which spoke quality at every touchpoint. The ‘luxury’ is simply a consequence of this.

In order to achieve such ambitious outcomes, there was simply no choice other than to strive for perfection within EVERY aspect of the journey and product offering as our benchmark. We are very familiar with the process and regulations around skincare production in other countries, which is why upon discovering the details around producing skincare in France, particularly within a natural, certified framework, we knew that this was absolutely where we needed to produce LA FERVANCE. The very strict requirements around testing, compliance, regulations are second to none, therefore as time consuming and complex as it was to adhere to a 100% natural and 100% recyclable framework, within the specifications of a globally certified framework, the results are just exemplary and offer a guarantee to the consumer that they are truly buying the best products possible.

The striving for perfection will resonate with those who value the artisan approach which is LA FERVANCE and who appreciate that this comes at a premium. They understand and appreciate that handmaking and hand-filling our European made packaging here in France, compared with doing so abroad will mean they get a premium product and experience. The fact that we insisted on ingredients which are sourced predominantly from France and Australia, rather than choosing more cost effective ingredient options, also contributes to these outstanding results. Those who value our ethos and quality will resonate with the brand and be happy to align themselves with LA FERVANCE.

Talk us through an average day in your life…

I don’t think the word average has ever really had a place in my life ? I start my day at 5am. Whilst this certainly does not come naturally to me, I recognise the importance of the extra two hours waking up early as being sacred and highly productive to me as what I can achieve during these ‘power hours’ far exceeds anything I can accomplish throughout the remainder of the day. I use this time to meditate, focus on my intentions, plan for my day. I’ll then wake the family and after a hearty breakfast I drop the children off at school. They attend an International bi-lingual school in Paris as they’re fluent in French, after being spoken to in French since birth and spending two years in a village primary school in Provence. Depending on the morning meeting schedule, I’ll then try to squeeze in a power walk, whilst admiring the stunning architecture and street scenes which inspire me daily, then it’s back home to prepare for the day. This can consist of meetings with our laboratories, packaging experts, suppliers, attending various industry trade-fairs, meetings with stores, product photo shoots – or planning sessions at our office near Opera Garnier. .

Being an independent brand, Jamie and I manage every aspect of its development in collaboration with experts in these fields to create the intended outcomes, so this means many diverse tasks being juggled simultaneously – and lots of ‘to do’ lists!

The afternoon sees me take on the role of Mum’s taxi, commuting our children to their various horse-riding, golf and tennis activities. We’d love to see some Aussie rules football in there, but it’s yet to catch on in France!

A family dinner follows during which we share about our day. The children are so invested in the LA FERVANCE journey, as they have lived every single moment of it since we arrived for our ‘sabbatical’ in 2016 and then decided to stay in France to develop LA FERVANCE. They have shared in discussions around colours, perfumes, textures etc. It’s been wonderful for them to be privy to the process and witness the highs and lows of the entrepreneurial journey.

The usual night-time routine follows and once the children are in bed, Jamie and I will continue working, before I apply ECLAT EXTRAORDINAIRE as a sleep mask before much needed good nights kip.

Who is your ideal customer?

I see the ideal LA FERVANCE customer being defined by an attitude not an age. It’s the savvy consumer who is astute, outward thinking, who won’t be influenced by smoke and mirrors marketing. They understand the skincare space, are aware of the ingredients they choose to place on their skin and appreciate their place in the market. They understand the motivations behind us using locally produced glass and responsible forestation packaging and both recognise and appreciate the various LA FERVANCE points of difference. In many ways it is a cynical consumer who questions and takes an interest in the story and who is inspired by such. Our ideal consumer takes the time to understand how our various decisions around minimising our carbon footprint and streamlining the product range, were made to support a more sustainable brand offering. They are astute, worldly, aware and can see through marketing hype by turning the package over to read the fine print ingredients – beyond the product name and positioning.

How do you want people to feel when they use your products?

LA FERVANCE feels like another member of our family. We have spent years perfecting the formulas and have approached every element with great integrity, so when people purchase the product we want them to feel special, to feel joy, to see and feel positive outcomes. Since launching on 29 November 2019, we have received nothing but positive and glowing feedback which is an absolute joy – extremely satisfying indeed.

We want people to feel completely indulged within the sensorial experience that is LA FERVANCE. The packaging, the product visual, texture, aroma, feeling and affects of LA FERVANCE are like no other in the market and so when people use LA FERVANCE, we would like them to feel transported to a different world when using the product.

ECLAT EXTRAORDINAIRE is our launch product and is an original ‘conflict free’ Italian gold infused multi-mask formulation, which may be used in several ways. It is a world first and by being an all-round beauty balm, with such a divine texture and perfume, it is proving most popular. As a morning instant glow product, there is nothing more active than this 100% natural, real gold balm which glides over the skin and doubles up as a ‘leave on’ treatment. As a sleep mask, it feels so soothing and indulgent and it may also be used as an innovative treatment mask, as after the treatment time the mask emulsifies with water and massage, leaving the skin plum and glowing upon removal!

What’s your best selling product?

This is a question best asked a year from now, once our first collection is rolled out in its entirety. We decided to launch with one stand out product ECLAT EXTRAORDINAIRE in November 2019, which is our certified, beautifully presented, exquisite multi-mask gold infused product, and the response to this has been exceptional. At the time of launch we ran a parallel sampling exercise, with those who had received a sample going on to order the product as they had become ‘addicted’ to the affects, the perfumes and the affects of placing real gold on their skin first thing in the morning.

Over the past few years we have developed equally exceptional and complimentary products, all within the ‘Fusionistique’ multi-functional framework.

Our philosophy is based on using targeted active ingredients in higher concentrations for more effective results, along with fewer more potent products within the collection. Less is more! This is what luxury is all about.

What has been your most successful moment to date?

There have been so many moments of success since we launched. I think that in terms of the turning point for LA FERVANCE – it was when we got the invitation to participate in the Positive Luxury, Positive Week event in London last October, hosted by the Universal Soul Company at Gazelli House in Knightsbridge. This is where I introduced LA FERVANCE globally for the very first time in view of the official launch in November and was able to talk about the brand journey, it’s inspirations, the ECLAT EXTRAORDINAIRE and answer questions from the guests. To be able to finally share LA FERVANCE within a public forum was deeply satisfying.

For me personally, this visit to London was also hugely rewarding, as it enabled me to reflect on my own personal and professional journey – having lived in London as a young Australian traveller back in 1994. Reminiscing about my time in that shared apartment in West Kensington, and all I had lived since then, only to come full circle, being in London again 25 years later as the founder of a luxury skincare brand, was cathartic experience – the feeling of which I will always remember.

You relocated to France to focus on this brand, why did you feel this was an important move?

Relocating to France from Australia was important for many reasons. For me personally, having lived in Paris in the 90’s where I worked in fashion and established many strong friendships and connections which continue to today, it was important to return to the source of this creative energy, the buzz, the inspiration. As a family, it was invaluable to have the experience of being able to travel throughout Europe and expose the children to such a rich history, different cultures, languages, friendships and memories.

From a brand perspective, to return to the source of the initial inspiration and that of the Napoleon directed, Baudin led expedition to ‘Terre Napoleon’ (Australia) was crucial to the essence of the brand. LA FERVANCE is a ‘Fusionistique’ brand and as such it fuses many elements, namely these two extraordinary cultures.

France is the global mecca of high-end skincare and perfume creation, so to develop and launch LA FERVANCE in France, to my exact brief and under the guidance of the global experts in skincare – with a combined experience of centuries, provides the brand with a clearly advantageous proposition and an energy which could not be achieved had it not been developed in France.

Are you planning on extending the range in future, if so, how?

A complete and complimentary collection has been in development since the LA FERVANCE journey commenced in 2016. Every product complies with the most stringent global certifications for natural cosmetics and fit within our ethos of 100% naturally sourced, active ingredients and have undergone rigorous testing. When skincare is designed to an exact brief by experts in their field, it is not necessary to have an excessive number of products within the daily regimen. The intention of LA FERVANCE is to streamline the routine, with highly concentrated products which fulfil several functions successfully.

Our current customer base is already asking when the next product will be released as they are so satisfied with the ECLAT EXTRAORDINAIRE which is a great sign.

How much does social media play a role in your business?

Being an independent, self-funded brand social media plays a significant role within our business model. We enjoy the instant responses received by those who engage with the brand and the potential we have to reach a wide and diverse audience.

Having said that, I still really enjoy print media and also like seeing the brand represented in this way.

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

Not a single thing.

Given the long gestation involved with the research, development, testing, finessing, production, Jamie and I had a long time to consider our approach and to plan accordingly. We even managed to do a brand ‘refresh’ before the brand was launched! – hence by the time we came around to going ‘live’ with LA FERVANCE, we were content and confident.

Of course there are always some areas which one questions, but I believe this is all part of the journey and should be viewed as opportunities to do things differently in the future.

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

Oh, I love to travel too! I am yet to visit Central and South America, so this is on the bucket list. I only wish I had visited Cuba 20 years ago! Russia is also a country I am looking forward to visiting. I studied Russian history at senior school which I found fascinating and having also been in Senior Management at the National Gallery of Victoria for many years, I had the pleasure of viewing The Banquet of Cleopatra which was originally housed in the magnificent Hermitage museum, so this is absolutely a building in which I would like to lose myself for a day or two!

What are your plans for the brand in 2020?

To continue to spread the word about LA FERVANCE and what makes the brand a stand out in a crowded skincare space.

To establish key retail partnerships with global retailers aligned with our principals and brand culture.

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

I have so many favourite quotes. I live by quotes and Khalil Gibran is the author of many of my preferred ones.

Before I set off on my first o/s adventure as a young adult post university, I was considering the pros and cons of doing so and in a magazine I came across ‘Nothing will ever be attempted if all possible objections must first be overcome’. I cut that out and placed it at the front of my journal. I guess the same thinking applies today.

For any one aspiring to launch a company in the beauty industry, what advice would you offer?

Create a brand which is defined by your own passion, rather than one which complies with market trends. This will stand the test of the many challenges you will face and resonate with a genuine target market.

Find out more…

People can follow us on the usual channels of our website www.lafervance.com or #lafervanceskincare or our Facebook page.

We welcome any queries or questions at info@lafervance.com

Food & Drink November 9, 2023

Dine Out: Akira Back, Dubai

No matter how advanced tourism becomes, The Palm in Dubai will always be one of the world’s most daring developments, thrusting out into the Arabian Gulf with its branches lined with some of the most jaw droppingly luxurious hotels and villas you’ll ever get within touching distance of. One of these is W Dubai – The Palm.

The hotel is a palace, but not the kind where laws are written and rules are obeyed. It’s a place for partying. The hotel glitters from every angle under the Arabian sun, and the building itself seems to rise up from the ground in a curvy, elegant sort of way. Here, you know you’re in good hands. At the very top of the hotel sits Akira Back, a panoramic restaurant with views over the iconic Marina skyline.

W hotels worldwide pride themselves on a pedigree of culinary offerings, and Dubai is no different. Akira Back is a professional snowboarder, turned adrenaline-fuelled culinary master. His restaurant blends modern tastes of Japanese cuisine with Korean flavours to create a fusion never seen in this part of the world before.

Akira Back, if you’re not familiar with the name, is someone who is familiar with a lot of names. From having restaurants and pop-ups across the world, including the infamous Yellowtail at the Bellagio in Vegas, he’s become a chef to the stars, with A-Listers on his list of regular diners.

His menus takes on a sharing culture to multiply the opportunities, where interesting ingredients are mixed with unexpected flavours.

In any ordinary setting, a tuna pizza would be a controversial choice to say the least, but anyone will agree that the Palm, or even Dubai, is anything but ordinary. Tuna pizza here is actually one of the most famous dishes.

Granted, it’s not the kind of pizza you wake up in bed with after a heavy night – it’s actually a tortilla with thinly sliced tuna sashimi, ponzu mayo and white truffle oil, with micro shiso scattered on the top. Forget what you know about pizza, because this is the future.

Ask any friend who’s dined with Akira Back and they’ll tell you not to leave without eating two things – the tuna pizza, and the AB Tacos. If you’re familiar with the magic that is Korean cooking, you’ll already be sold. These crispy tacos are stuffed with beef wagyu galbi and topped with ponzu sauce, which packs so much flavour you’ll be telling your friends about it too.

Akira Back. W Dubai – The Palm. West Crescent, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai. www.akirabackdubai.com www.wdubaithepalm.com.

Argentina November 9, 2023

The 5 Casinos Poker Lovers MUST Visit

Poker is, without a doubt, the most popular card game in the world, played by millions and regularly portrayed in both film and TV. If you get to grips with basic poker terms, learn a few strategies and have a decent knowledge of the rules you can enjoy poker in some of the most glamorous settings in the world.

When you think of amazing casinos to play poker around the world your mind may automatically take you to Las Vegas, but there are other appealing venues outside of the Nevada desert.

Read on for our comprehensive guide to the 5 best casinos to play poker in around the globe.

Casino De Monte Carlo

Location: Monte Carlo, Monaco

Opened: 1863

The idea of opening a dedicated casino in Monaco was first pioneered by Princess Caroline in an attempt to avoid financial ruin for the ailing Monegasque economy.

Princess Caroline was incredibly successful at boosting the economy of Monaco with this casino as it brought in tourists from all over Europe. Colonial super powers such as France, Germany and Britain at this time accounted for the highest number of visitors as rich upper class people chose Monte Carlo as their opulent playground.

Poker is incredibly popular in this casino and their regular games tend to attract some of the biggest spenders in Europe. If you’re going to play here you either need to have a lot of cash or be incredibly confident in your poker abilities!

Casino De Monte Carlo is probably one of the most famous gambling resorts in the world, having featured in several incarnations of James Bond as well as Ocean’s Twelve to name but a few.

Take a look at an exclusive private tour of one of the most amazing casinos in the world.

Les Ambassadeurs Casino

Location: London, United Kingdom

Opened:1941

One of the most historic casinos in the United Kingdom, Les Ambassadeurs or ‘Les A’ as it’s known by its patrons was first opened in the mid 20th-century. Previous owners include the Conyngham family and Leopold de Rothschild, son of Baron Lionel de Rotschild.

The venue was re-opened 28 years ago and plays host to a range of diplomats, royalty, celebrities and aristocracy. Phillip Green, former CEO of British Home Stores almost put the casino out of business with huge wins of £2 million at the roulette table in 2006.

The intimate private room named in honour of Leopold de Rothschild is one of the best places to play poker in Europe. It’s reserved for small and intimate gaming parties so you can only expect to get an invite if you’re a high-roller.

Casino de Montreal

Location: Montreal, Canada

Opened: 1993

This Canadian venue is one of the largest casinos in the world by floor space, and a stunning structure that consists of three interconnected buildings. It also contains over 3,200 slot machines and 115 gaming tables along with a huge array of virtual games.

The casino mixes traditional and modern with its décor, whilst featuring a series of ornate furnishings the casino also has a number of wide, spacious windows and high ceilings. Texas Hold ‘Em poker has been a real area of interest for the Casino de Montreal in recent years as they have sought to wrestle back customers enticed by online poker companies.

Casino de Montreal has attracted some of the highest-profile poker players in the world to it’s huge prize pot poker tournaments. For the amateur player there is plenty to enjoy away from the table too with great restaurants and bars on-site.

The Casino de Montreal has put Canada on the map as one of the best gambling destinations in the world, rivalling some of the venues south of the border.

Regency Casino, Mendoza

Location: Mendoza, Argentina

Opened: 2004

Situated in the heart of Mendoza, Argentina the Regency Casino is undoubtedly the best in the whole of South America. Overlooked by the slopes of the Mendozan vineyards, the Regency sits elegantly in front of La Plaza de Independencia in the town square.

The building is an old Spanish colonial structure with a stunning façade featuring decorative frescos. Inside the casino is the epitome of quaintness, with only 19 table games and 650 gaming machines.

The Regency doesn’t have the grandiose allure of some of the world’s biggest casinos but its cosy and welcoming. If you needed an extra incentive to travel there, the casino hosts a series of intimate poker events to cater for all budgets.

The Bellagio

Location: Las Vegas, USA

Opened: 1998

Thanks to its stunning façade and presence in a series of films, music videos and TV shows, the Bellagio is the most well-known and most visited casino in the world. The mesmerizing light fountains are the first thing that will catch your eye as you pull up outside the Bellagio.

Beyond the eye catching choreography of the fountain is the Mecca of gambling, with a poker room nicknamed ‘the players second home’ that often sees games exceeding the $1 million mark. Blackjack, Roulette, Craps, Baccarat and even Chinese poker can be played in the main gaming room.

Further to that there are over 2,300 slot machines in the main hall with some of the best slot games in the world available. 5 of the finest restaurants in the whole of Las Vegas are situated on site for you to enjoy as well as a host of designer shops.

France November 9, 2023

A Riad For All Seasons : Les Borjs de la Kasbah, Marrakesh

Our girl Rachael Lindsay has been exploring Morocco’s bustling capital, Marrakesh. It’s a perfect winter getaway but with over 1,000 converted riads in the city centre, it can be difficult to know which one to choose.

In less than four hours, I went from a grey London morning to the bright Moroccan sun. We had a friendly transfer to our hotel, the spacious Les Borjs de la Kasbah. It is one of the biggest riad hotels I have seen in Marrakesh with 18 spacious rooms and a huge central courtyard, swimming pool and restaurant.

Before being shown to our room, my partner and I are treated to a delightful fresh mint tea. Poured from a silver pot, served with a plate of sugary patisseries and accompanied by the twitter of migrating swallows, I truly feel like I have arrived in a storybook world.

The rooms continue the story. Each is uniquely designed with traditional Moroccan furnishings and handcrafted zellige mosaic tilework. The owner describes how the entire riad has been constructed by hand, from the decorative archways to the hand-dug swimming pool, with the help of a trusty donkey of course. Burnt ochre and peach feature heavily with brass trellis lanterns, a dark wood four-poster bed and a natural marble bathroom.

We spend the evening exploring the nightlife of the Marrakesh medina. Its central square is a drama at night, filled with snake-charmers, story tellers, and bubbling cauldrons of food. The markets stay open late, selling intricate glassware, leather babouche slippers and earthenware tagine pots of every shape and hue.

After a deep sleep, we awake to a breakfast fit for a marathon runner with an extensive buffet of homemade cakes, jams, fruit, smoothies, bread and patisseries. I particularly enjoy the pancake station with its choice of six varieties of Moroccan and French crepes, warm and drizzled with honey. The restaurant serves up the usual Moroccan favourites of tagine, couscous and pastilla, a sweet flaky pastry filled with vegetables or chicken, as well as meaty French classics like lamb cutlet and tender filet of beef.

Having the space for a swimming pool is itself a luxury in such a central location and I treat myself to a morning dip before another day exploring the city. When it comes to sightseeing, I would recommend the Maison de la Photographie with its Orientalist documentation of Morocco and its stunning rooftop views, the newly opened city-centre oasis, the ‘Secret Garden’ and Yves Saint Laurent’s pristine gift to Marrakesh: Le Jardin Majorelle with its memorial, cacti and trendy tearoom. For shopping, there are plenty of excellent boutique stores, from the centrally located Max&Jan with its keepsakes, kaftans and striped jumpsuits made in-store on a handloom to the furniture and linens inspired by local craft and designed by Martin Raffone at maisonLAB.

After all the shopping, mint tea drinking and medina exploring, the relaxing riad of Les Borjs de la Kasbah is the perfect place to which to return. With a heated swimming pool in winter and cooling courtyards in summer, this is the riad for all seasons and our top recommendation of the many riads in Marrakesh.

For more information visit lesborjsdelakasbah.com.

Saudi Arabia November 9, 2023

7 Things You Need to Know About the New Saudi Tourist Visa

Saudi Arabia Tourist Visa – How To Get Yours Today
Saudi Arabia is one of the most influential countries in the middle east, however up until now its tourism industry been extremely limited. This is all about to change with the proposal of a Saudi Tourist Visa.
Saudi Arabia has announced radical plans to introduce a Saudi Tourist Visa scheme to transform both its economy and the global perception of the insular country. This is part of a major drive to boost foreign visitors to the country in a bid to further grow its economy and move away from a reliance on typical oil and gas income generators.
Previously only travellers from surrounding states or those with relatives within the country, Islamic pilgrims and work/business trips were allowed to apply for visas to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
For more information on how to apply for a work/business visa click here.
The country is host to five UNESCO world heritage sites, with tourism currently only making up 3% of the economy. However, plans have been announced to increase this number to 10% and double the amount of tourist to 30 million per year, to help stabilise the economy which is notoriously known to rely on its oil economy.
In an attempt to replicate the great success seen in the United Arab Emirates, which saw huge capital investment through the use of tourism and western holiday makers.
Where can I apply for Saudi Tourist Visa’s?
There are multiple ways to apply for Saudi Tourist Visa, depending on whether you require a Saudi e-visa or would like to go through the Saudi embassy.
For information regarding a Saudi e-visa, carry on reading the article below.
For information regarding a visa issued at the Saudi Embassy in London click here.
All You Need to Know About a Saudi eVisa
The Saudi online visa/eVisa is an official document granted by the Saudi government and requires applicants to fill out a form online. Required documents will be highlighted in the next paragraph.
What Documents do I need for a Tourist Visa?
This is dependent on the type of KSA tourist visa you are applying for.
For a e-visa/ visa on arrival you will need the following:

A passport – the passport must have a validity of 6 months or more
Accommodation – You must provide an address for your residence when staying in Saudi Arabia
A hard copy of the visa, although an additional soft copy is advised
For a consulate tourist visa, click here:
Accommodation – You must provide an address for your residence when staying in Saudi Arabia
Return flight tickets
Proof of employment
A statement from the bank
Additional documents such as national ID and a travel itinerary

How long does a Saudi Tourist Visa last for?
The eVisa is a multiple entry visa, valid for one year upon issuance and allows entry for up to 90days at a time.
There is also a single-entry visa, which only allows a stay of up to one month in the Kingdom.
How much does a Saudi Tourist Visa cost?
There are two primary expenses upon applying for a Saudi Arabia tourist visa.
The first is the cost of the visa fee which comes to SAR 440 roughly £100 depending on currency exchange rates.
The second is the compulsory health insurance fee at SAR 140, or about £31.
There are additional charges such as VAT payment and processing fees.
How long does it take to get a Saudi Tourist Visa?
For an e-visa:
The processing time is usually 5 to 30 minutes online.
For a consulate visa:
They take between 1 to 2 days to be issued, click here.
Which countries allow Saudi Tourist Visas?
Citizens from 49 countries are eligible to get a Saudi Tourist e-visa and visas on arrival:

USA
Canada
Kazakhstan
Singapore
Brunei
New Zealand
South Korea
Japan
Spain
Belgium
Malaysia
Austria
Cyprus
UK
Croatia
Estonia
Andorra
Denmark
Germany
Bulgaria
France
Hungary
Czech Republic
Holland
Italy
Finland
Ireland
Lithuania
Greece
Liechtenstein
Monaco
Iceland
Malta
Poland
Latvia
Norway
Russia
Luxembourg
Romania
Slovenia
Montenegro
Slovakia
Switzerland
Portugal
Sweden
Australia
San Marino
Ukraine
China, including Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan

What laws and etiquette should I be aware of when entering Saudi Arabia?
According to the official Saudi Tourism site there are certain laws and cultural expectations that visitors should follow; we have highlighted a list below:
Alcohol and Substances
The sale, purchase and consumption of alcohol or drugs is illegal in Saudi Arabia. This also applies to travellers who have been issued a Saudi tourist visa.
Public Behaviour
Public displays of affection, profane language or generally inappropriate behaviour is prohibited. All tourists are advised to act modestly and avoid any behaviours that can be deemed inappropriate.
Dress
Saudi Arabi has particular rules when it comes to public dress, the handling of this matter was of great intrigue upon the announcement of a Saudi Arabia Tourist Visa. According to the Visit Saudi official website both sexes are asked to dress modestly, while avoiding revealing or tight-fitting clothing. Clothing with profane images or language are also advised against.
How do I get to Saudi Arabia?
The main form of transport advised for tourist is through one of the many international airports in the Kingdom. Here is a fully comprehensive list below. There are additional airports within Saudi for internal flights available too.
1. King Khalid International Airport (RUH) – Riyadh
2. King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) – Jeddah
3. King Fahd International Airport (DMM) – Dammam
4. Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport (MED) – Madinah
5. Taif International Airport (TIF) – Taif
6. Abha International Airport (AHB) – Abha
7. Hail International Airport (HAS) – Ha’il
8. King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz InternationalAirport (GIZ) – Gazan
9. Prince Nayef bin Abdulaziz International Airport (ELQ) – Qassim
10. Prince Sultan Bin Abdulaziz International Airport (TUU) – Tabuk
11. Prince Abdulmohsin Bin Abdulaziz International Airport (YNB) –Yanbu
12. Al-Jouf International Airport (AJF) – Jouf
13. Al-Ahsa International Airport (HOF) – Al Ahsa
For more information on how to get a visa click here.

Egypt November 9, 2023

WINTER AT TANTORA FESTIVAL TICKETS NOW ON SALE

Here at House of Coco we are forever on the hunt for festivals that will broaden our horizons so when we heard that Winter at Tantora, the international festival celebrating art, music, culture and history, set amidst the timeless landscape of AlUla, is back, we were elated!

This years festival will welcome back Tuscan tenor, Andrea Bocelli, who will make his second appearance at the festival on January 31st. The announcement comes as the much-anticipated international festival opened sales on experiencealula.com.

The diverse festival programme also includes Egyptian composer, pianist and conductor Omar Khairat (December 27th) and Greek pianist Yanni (February 7th) as well as a number of chart-topping international artists.

All performances will take place in the Maraya Concert Hall, a state-of-the-art 500-seat facility with a mirrored facade, which emerges like a mirage in the ancient rocky landscape. The venue will host the headline performers as well as the Celebration of Beethoven (January 4th – 6th), an homage to the great German composer on the 250th anniversary of his birth and the multi-media theatrical production Jameel Buthainah (February 14th), a caracella dance inspired by the glory and history of AlUla.

The festival, which runs from December 19th until March 7th, will be one of the first times visitors will get to experience and explore AlUla and learn about its 200,000 years of history, ahead of its public opening in October 2020. Tickets are currently available for purchase on book.experiencealula.com. Globetrotters, arts and culture aficionados, music fans as well as adventure lovers can purchase tickets to individual headline performances or indulge in an experiential itinerary spanning a day or a weekend.

The weekend and one-day itineraries on offer will feature three packages – Gold, Platinum and Diamond – for different budgets, covering accommodation, transport, cultural and adventure excursions as well as attendance at the headline performances. Weekend guests can also bolt-on themed experiences in line with their interests, such as AlUla from Above (adventure), Authentic AlUla (culture) and Gastronomy (cuisine).

The array of activities and excursions also include the AlUla Balloon Festival, vintage aircraft flights, the second largest endurance horse race in the world, culinary experiences curated by Michelin starred chefs, traditional souks as well as luxury brand pop-ups.

Home to Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hegra, AlUla is a place of pristine and unexplored beauty. With 200,000 years of history ensconced in its vast landscape, the region is expected to emerge as one of Saudi Arabia’s key tourist attractions, following the announcement of the Saudi Arabian Tourist Visa in September. The recently announced programme allows travellers to obtain one-year, multiple-entry visas to spend up to 90 days in the country. Visitors from 49 countries and regions will be able to apply for the visa online (visitsaudi.com) or on arrival into Saudi Arabia through electronic kiosks or at immigration counters. Other visitors will be able to apply for the visas at the Saudi consulate in their home country. Saudi Arabia intends to extend the e-Visa scheme to other markets as further developments are made to the Kingdom’s tourism infrastructure.

“As a stop along the Incense Route, AlUla was once a part of the great corridor between the East and the West. It was a port of trade and a gateway between cultures, enabling dialogue and diversity. With the Winter at Tantora Festival, we are celebrating AlUla’s historic role in this region as well as its long tradition of bringing together varied voices and ideas,” said Amr Al-Madani, Chief Executive Officer, The Royal Commission for AlUla.

The Winter at Tantora festival will take place from December 19th, 2019 – March 7th, 2020 in AlUla, Saudi Arabia. Details about the festival, its line-up and exceptional surroundings can be found at experiencealula.com with tickets on sale now. To stay up to date, please follow @WinteratTantora on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

Food & Drink November 9, 2023

Sandy Dunes and Salty Air; off-the-beaten-track in Ibiza

With memories of sticky club nights at Manumission, fry-ups in the sunshine and an ill-fated hungover scooter ride from my last trip just over a decade ago, we dipped over the impossibly blue sea and landed in Ibiza. This time, however, I was to avoid singing Vengaboys as much as possible as we were off to explore the blissed out, bohemian side of the legendary isle.

A mecca for free-spirits since the 1950s, Ibiza’s hippy culture is still alive and the sound of drums at sunset increase the further you get away from the Brits abroad buzz of San Antonio. If you’re looking to kick back and focus on your well-being and meditation for a few days, read on. If you are hitting the clubs this summer and just want some hangover cure activities, the following should clear your mind and cleanse your spirit of the shots of the night before.

Tranquil Northern Ibiza

With the island only 40km long, staying far from the madding crowd couldn’t be easier. We stayed at the adults only (but not THAT kind of adults only, as I kept telling my friends) Barceló Portinatx (Venda de Portinatx, 62 barcelo.com ) resort in the north of the island just a 40-minute scenic drive from the airport. Take hand luggage only and you’ll be off the plane and by the pool in no time.

All the rooms in this bright and spacious hotel come with terraces with sun loungers allowing you to sunbathe in complete tranquillity if you just don’t have the energy to expend to pop down to one of the resort’s two pools or even the secluded beach, only 20m away.

The setting couldn’t be more idyllic with stunning sunsets and sunrises above the Portinatx cove which stood in for a much further flung island in the late ’50s film version of South Pacific. In fact, sitting in the hotel’s beachfront Noray restaurant with a goblet of G&T, guitar duo playing and the sky turning pink, it’s hard to believe that you can get here on a budget airline and no jetlag. You could just come to the island for some R&R and you wouldn’t have to go far with the tranquil outdoors Wellness Centre at Barceló Portinatx, with an almond oil massage and experience showers to jump into in between dips in the pool and a complimentary yoga class with views of the Balearic. But, this is the adventure issue so no lounging around for #TeamCoco… okay, maybe just a little bit with a mooch around the stunning true Ibiza feel shop/bar Los Enamorados (103, Calle de Portinatx, losenamoradosibiza.com) with a sundowner cocktail.

Portinatx is located in Sant Joan de Labritja and is the only true tourist resort in this region meaning that a short trip from this coastline you can lose yourself down dusty roads lined with fincas and their lemon groves. The village of Sant Joan is dreamily referred to as ‘the last village’ of the island with its white-walled houses with colourful doors begging you to sit in the sun with a cerveza or explore their artisan market every Sunday.

The village is home to a number of quirky small businesses, like intriguing coffee house-shop-hairdresser Los Otros (Carrer de Sa Cala 15, Sant Joan De Labritja losotrosibiza.com). Pop in for beautiful gifts and a trim and stay for their legendary veggie pink burger from chef Mirjam, author of popular veggie cookbook ‘Veggie Very Much’. After your healthy lunch and retail therapy pop to The Giri Cafe’s garden (Plaza España 5, cafe.thegiri.com ) for a few cheeky sun-drenched afternoon cocktails in the shade of their centuries-old townhouse.

There’s hidden magic to this island everywhere you look. The village of Sant Joan celebrates its patron, Saint John The Baptist on 23rd June with a riotous party with fireworks and bonfires. During the festivities, you can ward away evil spirits by noting down all the negative things that have happened to you in the previous year in a list and chucking it in a bonfire. Then, set intentions for the next year with a new list of goals.

Hippy Heaven

While many of the full-moon free-spirit partiers may have moved on from the hedonism of the ’70s, there are still authentic glimpses into nomadic life around, especially in the north of the island. Parked up in the dusty sand, in the shadow of pine trees in Portinatx, every morning you’ll find traveller couples enjoying breakfast on the rocks and sweeping out their vans. As the sun sets on a Sunday evening, if you are lucky, you’ll catch groups of them drumming on the beach here and also at nearby Benirrás Beach. Apparently, this tradition dates from ‘The Day of The Drums’ on Sunday 18th August 1991 when hundreds of people gathered to protest the Gulf War.

You won’t have to go far before stumbling over ‘authentic hippy souvenirs’ but take these with a pinch of salt. It’s not really the free-spirit way to have things mass produced for a profit. However, to soak up some of the atmosphere of the ’70s it’s definitely worth grabbing a cold one and losing yourself in Ibiza’s original hippy market, Es Cana in Punta Arabi, 10am – 8pm every Wednesday or the famous night market at Las Dalias which runs until 1am on Mondays and Tuesdays throughout the summer months. The scents, sights and sounds of these markets will transport you back in time and have you considering all manner of floaty clothes that you’ll then attempt to work into your office attire when back home. A boyfriend blazer works over all kinds of maxi-dresses, trust me.

If you can’t peel yourself away from your sun lounger to make it to the full hippy market experience, check out WorldFamilyIbiza.com – the family-run free-spirited brand which has expanded from Las Dalias market to, fittingly, the world with their colourful collections.

Exploring the seas

You can’t come to Ibiza and not take the opportunity to get out in the sparkling sea. The clear water is thanks to the protected meadows of oceanic seagrass and you won’t believe the turquoise translucency of the water as you come into Formentera by boat. There are a number of larger boats which travel across from the port in Ibiza town but for a true sense of adventure chartering a smaller boat is definitely recommended from the luxe Marina Botafach. Leisurely floating along, hearing tales of pirates, spying luxury yachts that Robert DeNiro has rocked up on and even glimpsing a dolphin, you can see why people have flocked to these magical islands for decades.

Formentera is the smallest and most southernly Balearic island with bright white sands and out of this world blue sea and sky. It’s not hard to see why Bob Dylan and Janis Joplin embraced spending time here in the ’60s and Cara and Leonardo can be found losing themselves in these pinch-me-I-must-be-dreaming surroundings. Arrive here and grab a bicycle or scooter to explore your way, with beautiful beaches all around the coast and wall-to-wall sunshine, choose your adventure. From beach chiringuitos where you can grab snacks to the unmissable homemade vanilla ice-cream at the stunning Es Moli De Sal restaurant on Playa de Illetas, there will be plenty of instagrammable treats on the way.

Hidden Gems

Still got a hankering for more of magical, bohemian Ibiza? In the South of the island is the impressive towering island of Es Vedra where Tanit, the goddess of love and fertility is believed to have lived. It’s also where the sirens who lured Odysseus from his ship lived according to local legend and claims to be the third most magnetic spot in the world, just behind the North Pole and Bermuda Triangle. If that wasn’t enough mystery for you, it’s also said to be the tip of the sunken city of Atlantis. The location of this Atlantis is supposedly secret but if you are feeling adventurous, follow the track down towards Sa Pedrera (the cove’s non-new-age name), it’s a steep journey but one that will reward you with carvings and paintings left by the nomads before you.

Where to stay…

We travelled to Ibiza with British Airways and stayed in a Superior Room with Ocean View at the Barceló Portinatx (barcelo.com) including the gorgeous breakfast buffet.

The team at the hotel will be happy to arrange transfers and taxis to and from the hotel to help you explore off-the-beaten-track Ibiza.